About VAUGHN LOWERY

Vaughn Lowery is a native of Detroit and the youngest of five siblings, a graduate of Cornell University's ILR School. Core duties: global diversification strategy, production management, and ecological implementation. The grandson of the late civil rights defender and recipient of the presidential medal of freedom, Joseph Lowery. Lastly, a distinguished member of the Alpha Phi Alphi Fraternity, Incorporated (Alpha Chapter).

How Did Ray-Ban Sunglasses Become Iconic Fashion Pieces?

Whether you’re a connoisseur or just someone casually into fashion, chances are you’ve heard of the brand Ray-Ban. After all, it’s one of the top manufacturers in the global eyewear market, reported by GlobeNewswire to be worth $157.51 billion in 2021 alone. Together with two other eyewear manufacturers, Ray-Ban sales account for almost 50% of the total market share. But before Ray-Ban became a staple in popular culture and the fashion industry, it underwent a long history of growth and transformation. Let’s take a closer look at how Ray-Bans went from being protective eyewear to the iconic fashion pieces we know today.

1930s – 1940s: Military roots

Founded in 1937 by the Bausch & Lomb Company in New York, Ray-Ban is an eyewear brand that introduced itself to the world through a new type of sunglasses known as Aviators. As stated in a Back Then History article on the Ray-Ban Aviators, these were originally designed to “ban rays” from the eyes of pilots and provide greater visibility during flights. Although Aviators first featured a plastic frame with green lenses in a shape mimicking pilot goggles, they were eventually upgraded to an all-metal frame with gradient lenses for greater eye protection. Since then, Aviators have been popularized among the military for effective glare control when battling the harsh elements of the outdoors.

1950s – 1980s: From cinema to everyday life

Ray-Ban Aviators expanded their reach in the 1940s, owing to the fact that civilians wanted to emulate the military style and fashion at the time. But it was only in the 1950s that a different style emerged with the debut of the Wayfarers. Rather than being purely functional like the Aviators were, the Wayfarers were seen as unisex fashion accessories worn by cinematic icons like James Dean in Rebel Without A Cause and Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. As Wayfarers continued to skyrocket in fame through the silver screen, Ray-Ban sunglasses started offering this best-selling design for both sunglasses and eyeglasses, with greater color and material options than ever before. To this day, this means men and women can rock a pair not just for special occasions but also to look stylish and sophisticated in everyday life.

1990s – 2000s: Acquisition and collaborations

While the brand has been steadily growing for almost six decades, the nineties marked a new chapter for Ray-Ban. Its founder, Bausch & Lomb, stepped back to make way for the acquisition by international eyewear conglomerate, Luxxotica. As Luxxotica is also known for handling other fashionable eyewear brands under its umbrella, it was able to maximize Ray-Ban’s full potential and usher in a more developed identity. Rather than solely relying on the vintage charm of Ray-Bans, the company grew its influence through a wider catalog for sunglasses and prescription lenses, as well as limited-edition collaborations with musical acts like The Smiths and The Kills.

2010s – Today: New technologies and a brighter future

Ray-Ban’s growth and success have shown no signs of slowing down anytime soon as the brand continues to innovate with new technologies. For one, Ray-Ban now offers top-of-the-line designs integrated with cutting-edge science. To illustrate, they now carry Chromance lenses that are specifically developed for outdoor athletics in terms of their polar filters, multi-layer coating, and anti-reflection features. With the recent rise of the metaverse, Ray-Ban has even partnered with Meta to develop smart glasses with technical features. Although this pair looks like any conventional glasses suitable for everyday use, it has built-in camera sensors, microphones, and speakers to capture rich and detailed images and sounds for Facebook Stories and calls. These smart glasses are branded as the Ray-Ban Stories and are available in the Wayfarer, Round, and Meteor Styles.

It’s clearly evident that Ray-Ban knows how to strike a balance between embracing its original charm and tapping into technological advancements for constant innovation. This results in a timeless brand that will continue to grow and make a mark for years to come.

If you enjoyed this article, you might also like our piece looking at the Prive Revaux sunglasses.

Miguel – Give It To Me

Grammy Award-winning artist Miguel releases a new music video for his single “Give It To Me,” which made its broadcast premiere on MTV Live, MTVU, Yo! MTV and BET Jams. Directed by Bradley J. Calder and starring Juliana Nalu, the video explores feelings of flirtation, desire, intrigue, chemistry and how they tend to draw two people together – watch HERE.

“Give It To Me” will be included in Miguel’s highly anticipated fifth studio album, Viscera, coming soon via ByStorm Entertainment/RCA Records. Recently, Miguel was on the cover of Office Magazine for their 20th issue in which they stated that “this period revealed limits and opened up capabilities he’d never considered.” The album will also include Miguel’s single “Number 9” featuring Lil Yachty.

Earlier this year, Miguel presented The Viscera Experience in partnership with Sony. The boundary-pushing performance art installation that culminated in a segment of full body suspension was unparalleled to anything Miguel has done before. He performed his unreleased song “Rope” while suspended along with other songs from his forthcoming album, revealing the deeply disciplined control of his body and complexity of his lyrics.

Watch the music video for “Give It To Me” and stay tuned for more music from Miguel coming soon.

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ROLLS-ROYCE CEO RETIRES

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has announced today that Torsten Müller-Ötvös is to retire as its Chief Executive Officer on 30 November 2023. He will be succeeded by Chris Brownridge, currently Chief Executive Officer of BMW UK.

Torsten joined Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in 2010, making him the company’s longest-serving Chief Executive since Claude Johnson, the man who brought Charles Rolls and Henry Royce together in 1904.

Commenting on the announcement, Torsten said, “Leading Rolls-Royce for almost 14 years has been the greatest privilege and pleasure of my professional life. To have grown the company and its world-class people to the position it is in today, at the pinnacle of the luxury industry, has been a remarkable adventure. I am proud of the role my exceptional team and I have played in contributing significantly to the UK economy and to the global recognition of Britain’s ability to produce the world’s best luxury products.”

Oliver Zipse, BMW Group Chief Executive, said, “Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a jewel in the crown of our organization. Torsten’s outstanding leadership, unswerving commitment, clear vision, and exceptional ability to build a strong, focused team have helped make Rolls-Royce the world-class luxury brand it is today. We wish him the very best for his future endeavours.”

When Torsten took up his appointment, Goodwood produced just two models, Phantom and Ghost. Under his leadership, Rolls-Royce Wraith and Dawn were introduced, as was Rolls‑Royce Cullinan, the first SUV in the marque’s history. This year sees the introduction of Spectre, the world’s first ultra-luxury electric super coupé that begins the marque’s transition to a fully electric product portfolio by 2030. Torsten also saw Black Badge, the edgier, more subversive Rolls-Royce alter-ego, conceived and launched – a bold venture that has broadened the brand’s appeal significantly.

Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO of Rolls-Royce, retires via 360 MAGAZINE.

SAG AFTRA AI PANEL

SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator Duncan Crabtree-Ireland Joins AI Panel at New York Comic Con

SAG-AFTRA announced today that its National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, will be joining the AI in Entertainment: The Performer’s Perspective panel at New York Comic Con on October 14 from 4:45-5:45 p.m. ET.

The panel will cover how existing legal structures can be used in some areas and how new standards need to be built for performers and producers to collaborate while still protecting individual rights to performance and publicity. Crabtree-Ireland will discuss how the union is approaching the issue, the laws surrounding this technology, and its role in the current strike and recent strike authorization vote on the Interactive Media Agreement that covers members’ work on video games.

Also appearing on the panel will be Cissy Jones (The Owl House, Transformers Earthrise), Courtenay Taylor (Mass Effect series, Resident Evil series), Tim Friedlander (Record of Ragnarok, president/founder of NAVA) and Andi Norris (Resident Evil 8: Village, Star Wars Vader Immortal). Linsay Rousseau (Transformers: War for Cybertron, God of War Ragnarok) will moderate.

Visit sagaftra.org online or find us on social (Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter).

BUILT DESIGN AWARDS

THE BLT BUILT DESIGN AWARDS UNVEIL 2023 WINNERS

The BLT Built Design Awards proudly unveil the distinguished winners of the 2023 edition, honoring visionaries in the field of architecture and design, with a grand ceremony set to take place at KKL Luzern, Switzerland.

Zurich, Switzerland, October 4, 2023 – BLT Built Design Awards has announced the winners of the 2023 edition, acknowledging and honouring the expertise of professionals worldwide who contribute to the realization of outstanding projects. From visionary architecture firms and interior design experts to groundbreaking construction products and landscape architecture projects, this awards program encompasses the entire spectrum of design and construction, shaping the world’s urban environments.

The BLT Built Design Awards celebrate not only the structures and spaces that redefine our cities but also the dedicated individuals who propel the industry forward. This annual program is a tribute to the projects, people, and their unwavering passion for the industry. The submissions for the 3rd edition of the BLT Built Design Awards closed at the end of August 2023, leaving the jury panel composed of experienced architects, designers, developers, academics and media representatives to select winners in each category. The program received over 700 submissions from 45 countries. The judges evaluated each project based on their own merit; rewarding the most pioneering and ground-breaking designs and selecting those standing out, based on new concepts, innovations and sustainability initiatives.

The BLT Built Design Awards 2023 top winners include Haus Balma, Switzerland, by Kengo Kuma & Associates for Architectural Design of the Year, Flat #6 in Brazil by Studio Mk27 for Interior Design of the Year, Phase Shifts Park in France by Mosbach Paysagistes for Landscape Architecture of the Year, while RENCO from the United States secured Construction Product Design of the Year.

In the student categories, Emerging Architect of the Year was awarded to Ripple from Japan, built by Takatoku Nishi, a student at Tokyo University of the Arts, while the Interior Designer of the Year award went to Hsiang-Ting Huang, a student at the School of Visual Arts, for designing a sound healing center. Gabriel Velasco, from Savannah College of Art and Design, received Emerging Landscape Architecture of the Year for Octavarium.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN OF THE YEAR

Haus Balma by Kengo Kuma & Associates

Haus Balma, awarded Architectural Design of the Year, is a remarkable creation by Kengo Kuma & Associates. Located in Vals, Switzerland, this commercial and residential building, completed in June 2022, beautifully balances tradition and innovation. More than a decade ago, the project began with a vision to harmoniously integrate modernity with the scenic mountain village of Vals. Kengo Kuma and his team, including Yuki Ikeguchi, brought this dream to life by blending unconventional forms and materials, particularly stone, wood, metal, and glass, into a seamless union with nature.

Company/Firm: Kengo Kuma & Associates
Design Team: Kengo Kuma, Yuki Ikeguchi
Architect: Kengo Kuma & Associates
Interior Designer: Kengo Kuma & Associates
Lighting Designer: Viabizzuno
Photo Credits: Naaro, Sebastian Stumpf, Paul Clemens, Daniela Derungs
Location: Vals, Switzerland

INTERIOR DESIGN OF THE YEAR

Flat #6 by Studio Mk27

Composed of a series of cosy ambiences that enhance Brazilian vintage design and woods, the living spaces enable an integrated family experience. TV room and bedrooms open themselves to a terrace that mediates the dialogue between intimacy and São Paulo’s skyline. Sober finishings such as the basaltine stone flooring and ipê wood panels are lightened by tactile fabrics and delineated pieces. Designed with extreme attention to detail, the combination of textures with sharp forms configure wide and soulful spaces, that embrace a joyful living.

Company/Firm: Studio Mk27
Lead Designer: Marcio Kogan, Diana Radomysler, Luciana Antunes and Mariana Ruzante
Architect: Studio MK27
Interior Designer: Studio Mk27
Const. Company: Lock Engenharia
Photo Credit: Fran Parente and Christian Møller Andersen
Location: São Paulo, Brazil

CONSTRUCTION PRODUCT DESIGN OF THE YEAR

RENCO by RENCO

RENCO MCFR is a state-of-the-art structural building system comprised of interlocking composite building units of various types and sizes of blocks, columns, beams, joists, headers, decking, connectors, etc. These products are all adhesively joined (chemically bonded) to form monolithic structures. The RENCO Structural Building System has been tested, analyzed and evaluated in ANSI-certified laboratories to ASTM standards for material and physical characteristics, structural performance, fire resistance and environmental resistance. The RENCO Structural Building System can currently be used in the design and construction of construction types VA and VB (structures up to 5 stories) in Seismic Design Categories A and B. Through continued research and development, expanded approvals are in process, to include the use of the system in Seismic Design Categories C, D and E.

Company/Firm: RENCO
Lead Designer: Thomas P. Murphy, Jr
Design Team: Engin Yesil
Other Credit: Ken Smuts
Photo Credit: Legendary Production
Location: Palm Beach County, FL USA

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE OF THE YEAR

Phase Shifts Park by Mosbach Paysagistes

Phase Shifts Park proposes a dialogue between soil and air, culture and nature, across 230 hectares. It forges interactions between environments and populations. The design invests in lithosphere design, encompassing water, topography, and soil, combined with atmosphere design, addressing factors like heat, humidity, and pollution. The result is a diverse landscape that distributes comfortable ‘niches,’ featuring 11 resorts. The atmosphere’s performance is emphasized by the lithosphere resources, which provide leisure lands, sports areas, and play areas. Urban traffic is partially incorporated into the park’s subsoil, ensuring continuous flow over a 2.7km stretch from South to North. The hills establish a framework that offers vast continuities, intimacy, and protection.

Company/Firm: Mosbach Paysagistes
Lead Designer: Catherine Mosbach, Mosbach Paysagistes
Design Team: Philippe Rahm architectes – Ricky Liu & associates
Lighting Designer: Philippe Rahm Architectes
Other Credit: Stelier LD; vrd transsolar: ingénierie climatique; B&G structure: sepia conseil hydraulique
Photo Credit: Victor Chohao Wu, Catherine Mosbach
Location: Taichung Taiwan
Photo Credit: Victor Chohao Wu, Catherine Mosbach

“At the BLT Built Design Awards, we take pride in uniting visionary projects and innovation from across the globe, celebrating exceptional excellence in architecture and design. We’re overjoyed and eagerly await the winners’ celebration at KKL Luzern to personally applaud these outstanding achievers. The event promises to be dynamic and inspiring, showcasing the awe-inspiring influence of design,” commented Astrid Hébert, Co-founder and Program Director of the Awards.

Other honorees from the 2023 BLT Built Design Awards included, NONSPACE, designed by On Architects Inc. in Korea, the impressive Chengdu MINI Showroom Complex in China, designed by ARCHIHOPE & SIAD, stood out in the Commercial category, Creative Cluster in Riyadh, an architectural marvel by IND (Ind Studio Architectural Design L.L.C) in the United Arab Emirates, was celebrated in the Cultural category, the Netherlands’ SuperHub Meerstad, skillfully crafted by De Zwarte Hond, made a mark in the Commercial category, the Original Granite Bracket, a company from the United States, garnered praise for its product, the Industrial Free Hanging Shelf Bracket® and TerraCool Urban Oasis, designed by Dilara Temel in the United Kingdom, earned accolades for its Sustainable and Energy Saving qualities.

The highlight of the BLT Built Design Awards will be an exclusive awards ceremony at KKL Luzern, Switzerland on November 18th, with D5 Magazine as a media partner. This stunning venue, designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel, sets the stage for an unforgettable evening. With its modern design and breathtaking views of Lake Luzern, the KKL Luzern ceremony promises to be a night of elegance and celebration. The Gala will provide a platform for recognition and exposure, with distinguished judges and influential figures from the design world in attendance.

To explore all the winning projects, please visit bltawards.com. These exceptional projects and designs demonstrate the remarkable diversity and innovation within the BLT Built Design Awards community.

The header from the top left: Haus Balma by Kengo Kuma & Associates, Fuzhou Guancheng Daitong Plaza-Yacht Club by Wonderway Design. Photo Credit: Arch-Inbetween Studio, Zhao Yilong, Skyspace Amarta by Studio Mk27. Photo Credit: Fernando Guerra, Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen and George Roske, The Chiu by Nature Times Art Design Co., Ltd, Robert-Koch-High-School Berlin by SSP Rüthnick Architekten. Photo Credit: Klemens Renner, Dubio by Depot Roel Vandebeek. Photo Credit: Nelissen Steenfabrieken.

Note to editors:

To download images of the winning design, please visit the BLT Awards website. By downloading you agree to the following restrictions: these images are available for press use only. They must not be cropped, altered, montaged, overlaid with text or manipulated in any way. Images must be used with captions and copyrights.

For any other enquiries, please contact our PR team at press@3cawards.com

About the BLT Built Design Awards:

The BLT Built Design Awards recognize the expertise of all professionals involved in the realization of outstanding projects, on a global basis — from architecture firms and interior design experts, to construction products and project management. More information at bltawards.com.

BLT Built Design Awards is a program under the 3C Awards, a leading organization curating and promoting design across the globe. The company represents today’s diversity and innovation in lighting design, furniture design, interior design, and architecture. Each brand is a symbol of design excellence around the world, showcasing professional and emerging designers’ work, to over 100 expert jury members. Developed by Hossein Farmani and Astrid Hébert, BLT Built Design Awards is managed by the 3C Awards under a larger organization called 3C Group, specializing in awards, marketing, media, and events. 3C Group is a sister company to Farmani Group, founded by Hossein Farmani. Farmani Group, established in 1985, is a leading global organization, curating and promoting photography, design, and architecture.

3C Awards is part of Three C Group GmbH, a Swiss-registered company based in Grabenstrasse 15a, 6340 Baar, Switzerland. More information at 3Cawards.com.

Using Mobile Apps to Invest: This Is the Way

In the fast-paced world of modern finance, the concept of investing has evolved significantly. With the rise of technology, investing in the present day has become more accessible and convenient than ever before. One of the key enablers of this convenience is the plethora of mobile apps designed to simplify investing. This article explores the importance of these mobile apps in today’s investment landscape, emphasizing their role in helping individuals make informed financial decisions.

The Rise of Mobile Apps in Investing

In recent years, mobile apps have revolutionized the way people invest. These applications have made it possible for investors to access their portfolios, execute trades, and monitor market trends from the palm of their hand, regardless of their location or time zone. Such accessibility has democratized investing, enabling both beginners and seasoned investors to take control of their financial futures with ease.

Accessibility & Convenience

One of the most significant advantages of using mobile apps for investing is the unparalleled convenience they offer. Investors no longer need to be tethered to a desktop computer or reliant on a traditional brokerage firm to manage their investments. Instead, they can trade stocks, bonds, cryptocurrencies, and other assets at their own convenience, 24/7. This accessibility has opened doors for individuals who may have previously found investing intimidating or time-consuming.

Real-Time Information

Mobile apps provide investors with up-to-the-minute information on market movements, news, and trends. This real-time data empowers investors to make informed decisions swiftly, thereby capitalizing on market opportunities and minimizing risks. Furthermore, many of these apps offer customizable alerts and notifications, ensuring that investors never miss a critical development in their portfolio.

Diverse Investment Options

Investment mobile apps typically offer a wide range of investment options, allowing users to diversify their portfolios according to their risk tolerance and financial goals. From stocks and bonds to exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and even alternative investments like real estate and commodities, these apps offer a diverse selection to cater to various investor preferences.

Key Considerations When Choosing an Investment App

While the convenience and accessibility of mobile apps have transformed investing, individuals should exercise caution and due diligence when selecting an app to manage their finances. Here are some key considerations:

Security

Investors should prioritize apps that provide robust security measures to protect their sensitive financial information. Look for apps that utilize encryption, two-factor authentication, and other safeguards to ensure your data remains confidential.

User-Friendly Interface

The ease of use of an investment app is crucial, especially for beginners. A user-friendly interface simplifies the navigation process and ensures that investors can access the features they need without confusion.

Fees & Charges

Different investment apps may have varying fee structures, including trading commissions, account management fees, and expense ratios for ETFs and mutual funds. It’s essential to understand these fees and choose an app that aligns with your budget and investment strategy.

Customer Support

Access to responsive customer support is invaluable in case of any issues or inquiries. Ensure that the app you choose offers accessible and knowledgeable customer service channels, such as live chat, email, or phone support.

Summary

Investing in the present day is all about embracing the convenience offered by mobile apps. These apps empower individuals to take control of their financial future, providing accessibility, real-time information, and diverse investment options. However, investors must carefully evaluate their options to choose the app that best aligns with their needs and financial goals.

As technology continues to advance, the role of mobile apps in investing is likely to expand further, making it even more accessible and efficient for investors. In this dynamic financial landscape, staying informed, and adaptable will be key to achieving long-term financial success. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting your journey, the world of investing is at your fingertips through these innovative mobile applications.

LOUIS VUITTON SS24

Louis Vuitton’s Women’s Spring-Summer 2024 show assets! Presented just yesterday on Paris’s greatest avenue – the Champs-Élysées – the show featured pieces that were designed to be as light as possible. Long flowing skirts and silk blouses emitted a breezy feel, while chunky belts and leather bomber jackets exemplified the artful movement of clothing.

Nicolas Ghesquière noted “Vuitton is a luxury brand, but it’s about function. It provides a service: to travel better. Mobility is important in clothes.” For Spring/Summer 2024, Louis Vuitton collaborated with James Chinlund to create an immersive show venue that mimicked a hot air balloon inside and out.

Jack Osbourne + Travel Channel

JACK OSBOURNE’S NIGHT OF TERROR

WATCH A CLIP FROM SUNDAY’S PREMIERE HERE

Sharon Osbourne’s Paranormal Encounter – Turned Medical Emergency

New Series Premieres Sunday, October 1st @ 9/8c on Travel Channel

In the series premiere, Glen Tavern Inn airing Sunday, October 1 at 10/9c on Travel Channel, Jack is accompanied by his mother Sharon Osbourne to the Glen Tavern Inn, a century-old hotel in Santa Paula, California that has a colorful but tragic past. While Sharon enters the investigation unsure about whether or not she believes in ghosts, the more time she and Jack spend at the Inn, the more she is convinced something dark is lurking in the hotel’s historic suites. As the investigation’s energy grows things take a dramatic turn. Sharon lands in the crosshairs of one of the Inn’s most volatile entities, an angry and oppressive male spirit known for overtaking female guests – ending in a still unexplained medical mystery.

Watch in this brand new clip as Sharon’s unprecedented and dangerous paranormal encounter unfolds… in a way neither her nor Jack expected.

The new season of JACK OSBOURNE’S NIGHT OF TERROR premieres Sunday October 1 at 9/8c on Travel Channel.

Fengzhao Xu

PODCAST

‘LuXu explores immigration through a raw lens with unfiltered images.’–360®

Fengzhao Xu is a photographer from Zhejiang in China and is now based in Los Angeles. With a double major in psychology and photography from the University of Iowa, and a master’s degree from the Photography Department of Columbia College in Chicago, Xu’s artistic journey is rooted in a deep understanding of human psychology. His works delve into the intricacies of light and shadow, offering viewers an intimate glimpse into his own inner world. Through these expressive elements, he unveils his inner world to viewers, evoking emotional responses and establishing a connection between the audience and his art.

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KHALED + SNIPES

This past weekend in Miami, DJ Khaled’s We the Best x SNIPES store hosted a remarkable gathering of recording artist mavericks, including Fat Joe, J Balvin, and Diddy.

The atmosphere was electric, possessing some of the most prolific personas within the industry.

Additionally, the Colombian megastar released a special edition–the J Balvin x Air Jordan 3 dubbed, Medellín Sunset.

Diddy, Fat Joe and J Balvin at meet + greet hosted by DJ Khaled's We the Best x SNIPES store.

Photos: SNIPES