Posts tagged with "sustainable"

Esther Perbandt

Listen to 360 MAG‘s podcast with Esther Perbandt on SPOTIFY.

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Esther Perbandt on IMDB.

Esther Perbandt has to be one of the most dynamic fashionistas of the modern day. Dressed in all black like the omen, she breathes fire into anyone in her line of sight. In fact, It’s one of the reasons why we all fell in love with her on Making The Cut. Recently, we literally bumped into her during a recent trip to Berlin. She’s an impressionable soul who breathes new life into someone who has been depleted by the daily grind or trauma. She moves like water, taking on the shape of whatever space she fills. “I would never have applied to the show because it’s really commercial,” Esther says of how she got on Making The Cut, “I was known in Berlin for being the arty Esther doing big fashion shows and theater. The word commercial was a no-go for me.” “When I read it (the invitation), I was like no way, not me,” luckily she didn’t answer right away, “but then I said: ‘Esther If you think twice, this is exactly what you need. Finally, the international attention.’ I was working my ass off at the time but it wasn’t really working.” The Queen of Black may not have won her Amazon Prime contest for a million dollars, but she’s certainly gained a million fans across the globe. Her supportive nature, loyalty, and tenacity have led to numerous collaborations, including the first-ever jewelry capsule with Adidas.

She admits that she isn’t as sustainable as she had hoped to be as a designer, but at least she is aware of her shortcomings. She does, however, state that she will drive two hours for locally sourced materials such as zippers made in Germany. “I have the goal to become sustainable or maybe 100% sustainable in ten years,” Esther states, “the vision of my brand in ten years is very digital, so I’m playing a lot with digital fashion…and also using it as a tool to become more sustainable.”

You’d have to be a fool to believe that this unpolished, meticulously engineered black diamond won’t have her moment to shine. Someone who has struggled on her path to success will eventually prosper. “People love to invite me to speak because I’m very honest,” Esther admits, “I talk about how bad it was sometimes that I was sleeping on the floor because I had to rent my apartment to get some money in, or how I had to take out large bank loans that I was almost unable to repay. But this is the life of a designer, and it was a decision. And it was also a decision not to have a family because I knew this job would be 24/7, and I wanted it and still want it.” Her passion for fashion, and meticulous attention to detail, combined with her monochromatic ensembles accented with gold accessories, will keep her on top. It is the reason why we celebrate her. Why we adore her. And how she takes on tasks at the drop of a hat – two collections per year, countless magazine covers, and speaking engagements in addition to Vogue editorials. Esther also held a solo exhibition of her artworks last year. “All of them were inspired by my collection. I used the same techniques and the same materials, but just created some 3D sculptures which you can put on the wall,” She explains. “I can’t focus solely on fashion for 365 days a year; I need some distractions,” Esther confesses. “So this art is part of it, and I’m hoping that this distraction will get me back into fashion, which is exactly what happened.” With so much talent at her disposal, she will stand the test of time, strangling fast fashion with her bare hands, just like her Avant trademarks. Her heart and keen ability to visually tell a story is what will propel her career forward.

Shop Esther Perbandt’s designs HERE

Article: Jess Chen, Vaughn Lowery

Previous Q×A HERE.

Esther Perbandt (Making the Cut) in Berlin via 360 MAGAZINE.

Esther in Interview Magazine.

Cover Photography: Vaughn Lowery

Esther s/o to 360 MAGAZINE’s New Frontier in Fashion during NYFW on YouTube HERE.

Lectra × TextileGenesis

Lectra announces the acquisition of the majority of the capital of TextileGenesis

Lectra extends its software offer to material traceability
and reinforces its position in Industry 4.0

Lectra announces the signature of an agreement to acquire 51% of the capital and voting rights of the Dutch company TextileGenesis. As a major player in the fashion, automotive, and furniture markets, Lectra contributes with boldness and passion to the Industry 4.0 revolution by providing software, equipment, data, and services to brands, manufacturers, and retailers.

Founded in 2018, TextileGenesis provides a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform that enables fashion brands and sustainable textile manufacturers to ensure a reliable, secure and fully digital mapping of their textiles, from the fiber to the consumer, and thereby guarantee their authenticity and origins. This solution ensures the traceability of TextileGenesis’ customers’ entire sustainable textile supply chain in order to meet the demands for transparency, driven by changes in legislation in a growing number of countries and by growing consumer awareness, thereby encouraging sustainable development.

Its innovative traceability mechanism, which addresses both ends of the textile value chain, as well as its network of partners for material certification, and its technology platform guarantee the exchange and tracking of reliable and secure data throughout a material’s life cycle.

Several of the world’s most prestigious fashion brands as well as leading sustainable fiber producers are already convinced of the value of TextileGenesis’ innovative offer, which enables the connection of multiple actors of the sustainable fashion ecosystem on this platform.

“Fashion is one of the most fragmented industries due to its long and complex value chain, which makes it opaque to brands, suppliers, subcontractors, and consumers” says Amit Gautam, founder of TextileGenesis. “Today, only 19% of fashion industry actors have visibility of their value chain, and this visibility is often partial. Many brands, especially those that have set ambitious sustainability goals, face a real challenge in terms of supply chain transparency. If they cannot track the life cycle of certified materials, they will not be able to justify the sustainability of their products,” he adds.

“Having the highest ethical standards, guaranteeing the well-being of our employees, and preserving the environment are embedded in Lectra’s DNA and guide our daily decisions. Through our technology, acquisitions, and partnerships, we aim to empower our customers to work in a more socially and environmentally responsible way,” says Daniel Harari, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lectra. “We look forward to joining forces with TextileGenesis’ talented teams to accelerate the development of their sustainable material traceability solution and deepen our knowledge of the textile value chain in the fashion industry,” he concludes.

At the beginning of January, Lectra will acquire 51% of TextileGenesis for 15.2 million euros. The acquisition of the remaining share capital and voting rights is expected to take place in two stages, in 2026 and 2028, for an amount that will be calculated based on a multiple of the 2025 and 2027 recurring revenues.

About Lectra:

As a major player in the fashion, automotive and furniture markets, Lectra contributes to the Industry 4.0 revolution with boldness and passion by providing best-in-class technologies.

The Group offers industrial intelligence solutions – software, equipment, data and services – that facilitate the digital transformation of the companies it serves. In doing so, Lectra helps its customers push boundaries and unlock their potential. The Group is proud to state that its 2,500 employees are driven by three core values: being open-minded thinkers, trusted partners and passionate innovators.

Founded in 1973, Lectra reported revenues of 388 million euros in 2021 and is listed on Euronext Paris (LSS), Lectra has set a revenue target of between 514 and 534 million euros for 2022.

For more information, visit lectra.com.

Follow Lectra on social media:

Facebook / Linkedin / Youtube

SPOTLIGHT: MUGZY MCFLY

Fashion Designer × Stylist

New York designer and entrepreneur Jevaughn Williams, known as Mugzy McFly, is the co-founder and director of Signed By McFly.

McFly has made the Bronx his inspiration. Last June, he was interviewed by us and told us about his passion for fashion and explained what kind of design he creates for his clothing brand. Signed by McFly was created in 2013 with a single graphic t-shirt and has since increased into an extensive range of clothing pieces and accessories including joggers, sneakers, goggles and even cargo pants.

Listen to McFly talk with Vaughn Lowery about new designs lined up for the winter season and upcoming projects for 360 Magazine.

McFly confirms that this summer he has been able to see the trends that he had predicted at the beginning of summer in the streets of the Big Apple, “Quality, comfort and sustainable styles have been incorporated in bright and earth tones combined with eclectic sneakers. In addition, he adds that fabrics such as cotton have been the ones, he has seen the most. Listen to Mugzy McFly’s previous podcast with Vaughn Lowery on summer 2022 trends click HERE.

Instead, for the winter season he will incorporate designs with slightly more strange colors: mint. In addition, he wants to combine these colors in garments such as hoodies, for example he is very aware of the typical and traditional black hoodie, although he does not rule out adding more vivid colors such as yellow, pink, or purple. He foresees that the chosen material will be cotton again and something that he has in common with summer clothes is comfort. Even one of the star designs of his brand will be the bubble jackets not only for men but also for women. We can’t forget about footwear, a pedestrian accessory of Signed By McFly’s main clothing. This time it is a more functional shoe with a sporty touch. He is a basketball fan and would like to create ”those basketball player feet for next year”. For inspiration “I plan to go to the Flyers basketball tournament, which is completely decked out in my stuff.”

Accessories is one of the options that he is designing for this year. The theme: back to school. Own designs such as composition notebooks. In addition, the fanny packs are going to become a design and trend in his brand, for this he wants to design a classic PVP logo or an embroidered logo. Finally, hats will continue to be designed but this time with different textures than the previous ones.

Now, the designer is working on more graphic and higher quality clothes, ”I want to go back to looking for more graphics on things”, so he wouldn’t mind spending more money so he can design clothes that are better quality and different from what that people normally see.

Their designs are unisex with flattering silhouettes and elegant use of orange details. The style construction leans towards high-end clothing and high street.

Mugzy’s 2022 summer and winter collection are inspired by the slow and calmness of the previous years, aptly defined as “comfy elevated” with neutral earth tones and calm prints.

‘‘More Dreams, Less Sleep’’ Mugzy McFly.

Shop Signed By McFly.

Article: Andrea Esteban × Vaughn Lowery

Danilo Nedić – ArtDecko

Former skater and founder of Dutch design studio Focused Skateboard Woodworks, Danilo Nedić, turns old skateboards into colorful, geometric works of art.

The inspiration for his work are the classic line patterns of the Art Deco style movement from the 1920s and 1930s. “Looking for a way to translate the colourful veneer of old skateboards into these line patterns, I discovered a geometrical world behind these patterns with infinite possibilities,” Nedić says.

The result of his quest: colorful wall art with unique geometric patterns that play with the viewer’s senses. The colored veneer layers of the skateboards, give depth to each patterns, which seem to change shape with each new look. Nedić: “In this way I try to capture the playful, wayward and creative character of skateboarding with every ArtDecko wall art piece.”

Sustainable Art

Every year, hundreds of thrashed skateboard decks are left behind at skateboard shops across the world. The decks are no longer suitable for skateboarding, but Nedic gives the wood a second life. The old decks are collected at local Dutch skate shops and processed into sleek furniture, home deco and works of art.

From skateboard to artwork

The old skateboard decks get stripped of their griptape, sanded clean and sawn into strips. The strips are glued into rainbow blocks in stacks of seven skateboards under high pressure. These blocks are then sawn into veneer slices. The rainbow line pattern is created by the colorful veneer layers of the used skateboards.

Colorful geometric patterns

The veneer slices are sawn into different shapes with extreme precision and puzzled together into colorful, geometric line patterns, which give depth to each artwork. Each of the unique ArtDecko art pieces seems to change shape right before the eyes of the viewer.

About Danilo Nedić

Danilo Nedić (47) is the creative mind behind the Dutch design studio Focused Skateboard Woodworks, which he and Jeroen Dekker (47) founded together in 2015. Each work of art from the ArtDecko wall art series is personally designed and handmade by Nedić.

About Focused Skateboard Woodworks

Focused is a Rotterdam based Dutch design studio specialized in transforming old skateboards into colorful and sleek furniture and home deco. Focused is known for the DecksTop and DecksPad tables and has made custom recycled skateboard furniture for Google Creative Lab (New York), Varonis (New York), Golden Road Brewing (Los Angeles) and many other companies around the world.

Tennessee Tourism × Earth Day

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Known for its natural beauty, unique culture and southern hospitality, Tennessee strives to be at the forefront of sustainability efforts to preserve its wonder and charm for future generations to come. In honor of Earth Day, Tennessee Tourism created a roundup of clean, green and sustainable ways to eat, explore, lodge and travel across the state. Find Tennessee Tourism on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

A More Sustainable Tennessee

The Solar Farm Welcome Center: The Solar Farm Welcome Center is surrounded by a 25-acre, five-megawatt solar farm, overseen by the University of Tennessee. The center features a circular interactive spectrum exhibit bringing solar power to life for visitors. Here you can learn how solar energy really works, how the sun is keeping the lights on, and the innovations and opportunities solar power brings to Tennesseans.

Tennessee Sustainable Spirits: Tennessee is home to world-class whiskey, wine, beer and fine spirits. Tennessee Sustainable Spirits is a voluntary recognition and technical assistance program by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation which seeks to reduce operational costs and environmental impacts for wineries and wine-growers, breweries and distilleries as well as serve as a gateway to sustainability through popular brands.

Tennessee Sustainable Hospitality: Along with generating economic activity, Tennessee’s hospitality industry has an environmental impact on the state through resource usage and waste generation. Tennessee Sustainable Hospitality and TDEC provide a sustainability roadmap for businesses to follow which includes tips for energy and water conservation, recycling and waste reduction, food waste reduction, communication, education and greening the supply chain.

Keep Tennessee Beautiful: Keep Tennessee Beautiful is the state-level affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, and serves as a state resource for litter prevention, community greening, and recycling and water education. They are also partners with TDOT’s Nobody Trashes Tennessee, the state of Tennessee’s official litter prevention campaign.

Chattanooga Airport: The Chattanooga Airport became the first and only U.S. airport powered by sustainable solar energy with a 2.74-megawatt solar farm consisting of over 9,000 solar panels and battery storage technology that allows the system to run off the grid. Additionally, it has LEED-certified facilities, and the world’s first LEED Platinum Certified aviation terminal.

Celebrate Earth Day with These Statewide Events

EarthDayz at Rock City: Join Rock City Gardens in Chattanooga this April for EarthDayz, a naturally fun outdoor Earth Day celebration. Be mesmerized when vines and trees come to life with methodical movement, hear live percussionists and go on a virtual scavenger hunt while enjoying the great outdoors.

Museum of Science & History’s Annual Plant Sale: This Earth Day weekend the Museum of Science & History (MoSH) in Memphis will host its annual Volunteer Plant Sale on April 22 and 23, 2022 at the Lichterman Nature Center. During the celebration guests can explore the 65-acre nature center and arboretum that is home to lush gardens, wildlife exhibits, and trails through lake, meadow and forest habitats.

Ijams Nature Center’s Sustainable Fashion Event: On Sunday, April 24, the Ijams Nature Center and Natural Alternatives Salon and Spa in Knoxville will present Fleurish: A Sustainable Fashion Event. It will include 12 local designers, along with hair stylists and makeup artists, who will create looks using both recycled and natural materials.

Seed Lending Library at Stokes Brown Library: Dig in the Dirt! Check out free seeds to plant a garden through the Seed Lending Library at Stokes Brown Public Library in Springfield and while you’re there, check out some fun Earth Day reading for all ages, whether children-friendly Earth Day crafts, juvenile and family gardening, or adult sustainable living skills. Try your hand at a window-seal herb garden, porch container garden, raised beds or inground garden and discover your green thumb.

Earth Day at Wolf Gap: Celebrate Earth Day at Wolf Gap in Pulaski by getting on in nature with a Native Plant Walk, observe and assist with freshwater testing, get crafty and make native wildflower seed bombs. There will also be a special Earth Day scavenger hunt, Tenn Pin Alley’s food truck and more.

Where to Stay

David Crockett State Park Cabins: The David Crockett State Park Cabins in Lawrenceburg are the perfect, family weekend getaway. Equipped with geothermal-powered HVAC units and gas fireplaces, these LEED-certified vacation homes are ahead of the curve on energy conservation. The state park also has the Tennessee Naturalist Program which serves as an educational training program to provide service and outreach efforts to help preserve Tennessee’s natural beauty and resources.

The Greenbrier Beechhouse: Enjoy unique, earth-friendly lodging at the luxury treehouse rental in Greenbrier which features tongue-and-groove pine ceilings, a spacious deck, swing bridge, fresh eggs and much more. Visit the magic and check availability HERE.

The Crash Pad: Located in Chattanooga, this eco-friendly, LEED-certified glamping spot is unlike any other. Offering 24 bunk beds or five private rooms, complimentary DIY breakfast and walking distance to some of the area’s best restaurants and bars, this classic yet charming hostel provides visitors with a blend of reclaimed and renewable resources to ensure the best of energy efficiency while supporting local sustainable businesses.

Where to Eat & Drink

The Polk County Tramp Festival: The 64^th annual Ramp Tramp Festival in Reliance will take place April 22-23 with two days of live music, crafts and traditional Ramp Meals which includes ramps in eggs, white beans, cornbread, fried potatoes and streaked meat bacon.

Lupi’s Pizza Pies: Lupi’s Pizza Pies in Chattanooga makes their pizzas and salads from local ingredients purchases from local farms and vendors in the community, or from their own Flying Turtle Farm. In addition to producing most of their own meats, vegetables and flowers. Lupi’s recycles everything possible from glass and plastic to trimmings and food waste from the kitchen to feed the pigs at the farm.

The Farm House: The Farm House in Nashville is an innovative farm-to-table restaurant located in downtown Nashville. Prepare your taste buds for Chef/Owner Trey Cioccia‘s ever-changing seasonal menu. This spring enjoy delicious dishes ranging from trout to southern carbonara, bone-in porkchop and much more.

Get Outside

Memphis Riverfront Park’s Arbor Day Tree Planting and Pollinator Party: On April 29, head to Mud Island to volunteer in planting replacement trees along the river at its Arbor Day Tree Planting. Stick around the next day to participate in the Pollinator Workshop Garden party at Beale Street Landing to learn more about local pollinators.

Springfield Greenway: Springfield Greenway is a scenic 4-mile paved trail that meanders along the historic and business districts, we well as tree-lined Sulfur Creek and public playgrounds. The flat and wide terrain accommodates walkers, runners and bike riders. This greenway has been honored with a 4-star Award, the highest award granted from the Tennessee Recreation and Parks Association

Gatlinburg Skylift Park: Take in Tennessee’s stunning beauty at Gatlinburg Skylift Park’s launch of its special VIP Sunrise Access event. Here, ticket holders will be granted early access to the park to see the sunrise over the stunning Smoky Mountains.

Mirimichi Lakes Golf: Bring your “A-game” this Earth Day at Mirimichi Lakes Golf in Millington. This award-winning course of more than 7,400 yards provides its visitors with an eco-friendly experience. From integrated pest management and water conservation, Mirimichi offers championship-worthy views and environmentally friendly practices for both amateur and professional level players.

Immerse Yourself

Cheekwood Estate and Garden: Cheekwood Estate and Gardens in Nashville serves the public as a botanical garden, arboretum and art museum with an extraordinary historic 1930s estate, 55 acres of cultivated grounds and expansive vistas, 12 distinct gardens and a 1.5-mile-long woodland trail. Visitors are invited to come and celebrate Earth Day by enjoying this year’s Martin Shallenberger Artist-in-Residence, a free 30-minute audio tour of the 1.5-mile-long Ann & Monroe Carell Jr. Family Sculpture Trail, pick up an arboretum map to learn about the 120+ distinct species that live on the property, experience the Bracken Foundation Children’s Garden and partake in Cheekwood’s Wellness 360 which is an initiative in partnership with Vanderbilt Health that encourages visitors to take advantage of Cheekwood’s 55-acres of breathing room to rejuvenate the mind, body and spirit.

Hatchie BirdFest: Head to Brownville to partake in 3-days of bird watching and escape to the great outdoors at the ninth annual Hatchie Birdfest (April 22-24). The event will offer a variety of activities for all ages and skill levels, including nature hikes, educational seminars, a canoe trip down Oneal Lake and much more.

Spring Garden Fair: The Spring Garden Fair in Kingsport is a true celebration of heritage farming and heirloom gardening. From April 30-May 1, come and experience the oldest garden fair in the region where attendees can hear from master gardeners, buy from a wide selection of heritage and native perennials, annuals, trees and shrubs.

The Art Project: Keep the sustainable, family-friendly fun going in Memphis at The Art Project, a studio where kids dive into their craft skills and get creative with a wide array of supplies and recycled materials for their very own DIY piece of art.

The Homestead Festival: The Homestead Festival takes place June 3-4 at a 100-acre historic farm in Columbia and will feature a variety of entry-level homesteading activities, talks and demonstrations during the day and then musical performances on the main stage at sunset. The festival was created for those interested in getting started in homesteading or living more sustainably by teaching them the skills of food preservation, raising chickens, making soap, homeschooling and more.

Selfridges Plastic Designs

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The future of retail is being highlighted by an exciting 3D printing demonstration featuring an ABB robot in Selfridges, one of London’s premier department stores on Oxford Street. Throughout April, the demonstration will feature in a window display, with shoppers able to see an ABB robot 3D printing a variety of personalized designer objects made from Parley Ocean Plastic®—intercepted marine plastic debris collected from Parley’s Global Cleanup network.

The 3D printing demonstration is part of Selfridges’ SUPERMARKET concept, which challenges consumers to think about how the goods they purchase are produced and the impact of this production on the environment.

Marc Segura, ABB’s Robotics Division President, said, “While expanded choice is great for consumers, it also comes at a cost to the environment, with products and packaging often being discarded with little thought about where they end up or whether they get recycled.” He continued: “By re-using plastic from the world’s oceans to print designer objects, we help to highlight the important contribution of robots in creating the sustainable manufacturing processes central to a circular economy.”

Developed in partnership with environmental organization and global network Parley for the Oceans, and innovative design brand Nagami, the demonstration will use ABB’s simulation software, RobotStudio® and an IRB 6700 robot to create a variety of printed furniture, homeware and other objects made from Parley Ocean Plastic®. The robot will work with Nagami’s unique plastic extruder to print the objects which can be selected by customers on a screen and made to order on the premises.

Parley founder and CEO Cyrill Gutsch commented, “Parley Ocean Plastic® was invented to catalyze change in response to marine plastic pollution and the destruction of our oceans. Working with two industry leaders, ABB and Nagami, we can now print on demand anywhere in the world to turn a problem into a solution. Beyond the huge potential for reducing waste by printing directly inside retail locations like Selfridges, we want to use this technology to empower local communities across the globe—giving them the tools to turn local plastic pollution into business opportunities and useful objects. For the oceans, climate and life.”

As well as underlining the importance of eco-innovation, the demonstration will also help to highlight the wider potential of robotic automation in helping retailers attract customers into their stores. Robots are already being used in increasing numbers in inventory and delivery management and in-store services, with research organization Coherent Market Insightsestimating a 30% growth in the uptake of robots in retail by 2028.

Marc Segura said, “The ability to introduce robots into their stores both behind and in front of the counter offers exciting opportunities for retailers. By using robots to handle in-store micro-fulfilment operations, staff can be released to people-facing roles, allowing them to focus more on providing customers with a better all-around experience. As demonstrated by the installation at Selfridges, robots can also be used on the shop floor to enable personalized production of goods at the point of consumption, adding a whole new dimension to the retail experience.”

This new customer segment broadens ABB’s portfolio as part of a wider strategy to accelerate expansion into new and high-growth segments including logistics, healthcare, and construction.

Groundbreaking Sky-High Ocean Catwalk

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This week fashion blended with sustainability on a fully reimagined scale with Jessica Minh Anh’s groundbreaking J Spring Fashion Show 2022. The show was set amongst the Italian Rivera and took place atop the Costa Toscano, the latest LNG-powered cruise ship.

Breathtaking views paired with the most luxurious haute couture, ready-to-wear, accessory and swimwear collections swarmed the deck of the Costa Toscano. An environment in which fashion blends seamlessly with sustainability was the scene of the J Spring Fashion Show 2022.

Taking place atop deck 18 of the Costa Toscano, the fashion extravaganza was set amongst stunning views of the Italian Rivera. The ship aims to set sail on its first cruise after the final show on March 5.

The show kicked off with supermodel Jessica Minh Anh sporting a classic high-fashion red fishtail dress. The piece of art was produced by the Malaysian brand Emmanuel Haute Couture, accompanied with Jessica Minh Anh’s pioneering seashell-inspired hairdo.

The show continued with a remarkable array of embellished gowns with accentuated waistlines. Showcased in the colors of white and pink, each dress imitated the essence of the ocean.

Decorated with impeccable adornments with not one piece looking alike, Emmanuel Haute Couture maintained to raise the standard of pure excellence. The J Spring Fashion Show 2022 marks the third moment of the two fashion entities working together.

Then after Ngali showcased their ready-to-wear “Nginha” collection. The Australian brand took reference from serene, open areas to create a series compiled with flowing, moving pieces. Australian indigenous artist Lindsay Malay’s designs were printed onto silk adding for an added textured feel throughout the series.

US designer Elizabeth Southwood’s Sauvage brand showed off their latest collection full of daring yet constructive swimwear. The collection was motivated by the “year of the tiger,” sporting an assortment of unique prints, Swarovski crystals and innovative features.

The elaborate, couture collection “ORO” was dominated by gold accents and meticulously constructed pieces. Pakistani innovator Syeda Amera’s pieces emulated feminine styles embraced with hand-woven embroideries. “ORO” provided a unique interpretation and level of elevation needed within the space of couture.

Consisting of pieces that looked as if they were walking amongst the clouds is the South American designer La Paix from Paraguay. The couture, high-end aura from the collection took inspiration from all the pristine parts of life including nature, architecture, culture, art and life. Each piece had a dramatic yet contemporary flare.

GLAUDI from the California designer Johana Hernandez commemorated life after the pandemic with their collection. Standouts were comprised of eye-catching details, satin shimmering dresses and elegant gowns that filled the collection.

Jessica Minh Anh closed the GLAUDI show as a picture-perfect modern fairy-tale princess. The elaborate yet chic hand-beaded haute couture gown showcased intricate beading of crystals that caught every inch of sunlight shone upon them. Highlighting Jessica Minh Anh’s petite waistline with an A-line silhouette, the finale piece was truly mesmerizing.

Having worked with Jessica Minh Anh on other elaborate projects at distinctive venues, African designer Kine Dion had the perfect recipe to showcase everything we admire about modern femininity. Placing emphasis on individuality and diversity, the collection was encompassed by garments full of distinct weaving and embroidery tactics.

The finale showing of the J Spring Fashion Show 2022 was held by Vietnamese celebrity designer Hoang Hai. The “East meets West’ inspiration point created a unique haute couture collection full of White, blue, gold and red idiosyncratic pieces.

Jessica Minh Anh closed out the show in an impeccably designed silver dress full of Swarovski crystals. The final piece of art referenced the profile of a swan as Jessica Minh Anh glided down the catwalk. The gown itself took over a thousand hours to make and revealed a high cut slit with a deep trail. Jessica Minh Anh headed the array of models through the ocean catwalk pictured amongst the deep oceans.

Another previous partner with Jessica Minh Anh, the Parisian hair accessory brand Alexandre de Paris created pieces the array of collections. They contributed flowered hairbands, butterfly/dragonfly hairpins and jeweled headbands, bringing an esteemed sense of charm.

Acting as Jessica Minh Anh’s fourth cooperation piece with the Italian cruise brand, Costa Crociere, she spoke to her decision of the Costa Toscana for the superior ocean fashion show. Jessica Minh Anh stated, “This particular moment in history provides an opportunity for a sustainable “restart” of our society. Costa Toscana aligns perfectly with my mission of highlighting sustainability in a visually attractive way. It was an honour to celebrate the resurgence of business and style on the world’s newest LNG-powered cruise ship.”

Mario Zanettic, President of Costa Cruises, spoke to the influence of the show, stating, “It was a great pleasure to have Jessica Minh Anh on board transforming our new LNG flagship into a phenomenal catwalk. She is a pioneer in marrying fashion with sustainability, just like Costa in offering the most advanced sustainable ships. It was a perfect event to celebrate such an innovative ship like Costa Toscana, which in a few days will leave for her first cruise, starting the full resumption of the Costa fleet in the next summer.”

This next-level fashion show amongst the sea holds the place for Jessica Minh Anh’s 26th imaginative venture since her initial catwalk atop England’s London’s Tower Bridge. Holding shows in some landmark destinations, she has plans to only continue to elevate the space of fashion x sustainability, and they’ll take us out of this world, quite literally. For more information, on Jessica Minh Anh and her inventive shows, visit the JMA Website

J Spring Fashion Show 2022 press photos via JMA Global Media for use by 360 MAGAZINE

Additional information on Jessica Minh Anh:

Born: 19 June 1988 in Hanoi, Vietnam

Height: 175cm (5’9)

WORLD’S FIRST SUSTAINABLE OCEAN CATWALK

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A pioneer in the international unity between fashion and sustainability, Jesscia Minh Anh, elevates the new LNG-powered cruise ship, Costa Toscana, into a fully immersive ocean catwalk in Portofino, Italy. The J Spring Fashion Show 2022 will take place amongst the Italian Riviera, articulating the significance of Fashion x Sustainability in the world. The announcement of Jessica’s inimitable fashion show will not only alter the world of fashion and design, but the travel industry as well.

Catch a sneak peek of the out-of-this-world catwalk HERE.

Jessica’s catwalks always serve a deeper purpose than just marketing a new collection; the shows serve as advocation for global transformation. Each production is cleverly debuted at iconic international venues. Every runway has an underlying cause in support, like her J Summer Fashion Show, One World Trade Center. The event signified the newfound power and strength of America that was symbolized in the construction of the One World Trade Center. The event was held at the center 6 months before it formally opened.

The J Spring Fashion Show 2022 serves as Jessica’s return to the catwalk after her last show, “Runway on the Runway,” that occurred preceding the onset of the pandemic. The show took place at JFK International Airport in New York City, where inspiration came from Jessica’s mission to durability in the global supply chain.

Jessica is notorious for hosting compelling shows at world-renowned venues like the Eiffel Tower, London’s Tower Bridge, Grand Canyon Skywalk, Hoover Dam and Gemasolar Power Plant. An innovative leader behind the push for more durable fashion, Jessica also attended the Paris Agreement celebration campaign in conjunction with leading international bodies such as the Mayor of Paris, Canadian Minister and Japanese astronaut.

Watch the newly released Official Campaign Video featuring high fashion on the world’s newest Liquefied Natural Gas cruise ship in Italy HERE.

“This particular moment in history provides an opportunity for a sustainable “restart” of our society. Costa Toscana aligns perfectly with my mission of highlighting sustainability in a visually attractive way. It represents a breakthrough in the travel industry”, said Jessica.

Five Reasons Solar Energy Could Save You Money

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Are you thinking of switching to solar? There are tons of benefits for your wallet, your family and the planet.

However, time is running out if you want to get the most bang for your buck. Here are five reasons why solar energy could save you money — especially if you act quickly.

1. Earn Tax Benefits

The tax credits you can get for switching to solar are set to expire in 2024 unless Congress acts to renew them. The more rapidly you convert, the more you can save. Systems installed in 2020 through 2022 are eligible for a 26% credit. Those who wait until 2023 can only claim 22%.

You must own the solar panel system, not rent it from a conglomerate, and locate it at your primary or secondary U.S. residence to qualify for the tax credit. You can’t install it on your vacation home in the Bahamas.

You might also be eligible for state and local tax credits, depending on where you live. These could also put hundreds of dollars back in your pocket come tax time. You can look these up in an online directory or contact your state government offices to learn more.

2. Collect Credits and Reduce Payments

Many homeowners ask how solar panels can save you money on your monthly utility bills. Some property owners reduce their electric bills to zero. How does the magic work?

When you install solar panels, they convert photons from sunlight into direct current. This energy then flows to your inverter, which translates the direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC) and sends it to your electric box to power your home.

If your home is on the grid, you have an electric meter somewhere outside that measures the electricity you use. However, your system will use the stored energy from your solar power before renting it from your provider. The less power you use from grid sources, the lower your monthly bill.

In months when you generate more power than you use, you build up credits that work to lower your bill through a process called net metering. These credits are applied to future bills to make up for months when you might use more than you produce — such as during winter. Therefore, your solar system works to lower your utility bills all year, not only during the summer heat.

You might ask whether you can reduce your monthly bills to zero. The answer is yes. If you’re accustomed to paying $200 or more a month for power, switching to solar can put some serious green back in your pocket while protecting the planet.

3. Reduce Reliance on Nonrenewable Energy Sources

Have you noticed gas prices lately? They’ve more than tripled in the last 18 months, and they don’t look like they’re going to fall anytime soon. When they go up, so does the cost of heating oil for your home, and at the risk of sounding like Ned Stark from “Game of Thrones,” winter is coming.

Switching to solar energy can save you money now and in the future by reducing your reliance on nonrenewable energy sources. The reality of climate change coupled with the natural expiration date of such resources means that sooner or later, everyone will have to make the switch or get left behind.

Scientists estimate that humankind will run out of oil by 2060 if the pumps continue running at current rates. Fracking causes a host of environmental problems, contaminating groundwater supplies that human beings rely upon to live. Why not get ahead of the curve and save money with solar today — while preparing for tomorrow?

4. Enjoy Increased Reliability

Are you hesitant to switch to solar power because you fear outages? Quite the opposite is true. While you might run out of your backup supply if you go off the grid, you have no such fears when you remain connected.

You’re probably in a better position than your neighbors if rolling blackouts or other outages strike your neighborhood. Since your home will draw on the power from your panels first, you’ll keep your lights on while everyone else goes dark.

5. Enhance Your Home’s Resale Value

Solar energy can put significant extra cash in your pocket when it comes time to sell your home. Today’s buyers look for energy-saving features as one of the topmost desirable qualities when choosing a new home. Why wouldn’t they? They also want to prepare for America’s energy future while saving money on monthly utility bills.

A recent comparative analysis by Zillow bears out this logic. Homebuyers shelled out nearly an extra $10,000 for properties with solar panels versus those without this feature. Your investment will pay for itself in increased resale price alone, let alone all the money you’ll save on tax credits and monthly utility bills.

Today’s panels offer more attractive options than ever before. The next generation of solar panels uses photovoltaic (PV) cells instead of bulky panels. These integrate with the rest of your home or roof design instead of standing out for all passersby.

Solar shingles combine thin PV cells with molecules on a flexible copper/indium/gallium diselenide base. Today’s versions are three times more powerful than the first generation, allowing you to generate even more power. They integrate flush with concrete/asphalt shingles, creating a uniform look for your roof.

While not yet readily available, manufacturers are now investigating solar window technology. Once perfected, these panes will take advantage of the sun’s rays to generate electricity without changing the exterior appearance of your building.

If you’re still unsure about converting to full solar, why not investigate portable panels? This option also offers promise to renters who want to reduce their monthly energy costs without discussing extensive remodels with their landlords.

Solar Energy Could Save You Money

There’s never been a better time to invest in a greener future for your home. Solar energy could save you significant money — why not convert today?

New WELLNESS WELL PACKAGE at Las Catalinas

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Dedicated to creating a way of life that is healthy, sustainable, fulfilling, and fun, Las Catalinas is pleased to invite guests to experience it as a Wellness Well with a new package by the same name that will undoubtedly deliver a remarkable sense of wellbeing and rejuvenation while enjoying Las Catalinas and all that this seaside gem of a (car-free!) town has to offer.

This 4-night package includes fresh green juice daily from Copper & Stone Gourmet Market; a $100 credit at Pots & Bowls Food Truck, which opened this year and offers a fantastically fresh, healthy new twist with true farm-to-table cuisine and extensive raw vegan options; an all-access pass to CORE by ChakFitness, which also just opened and offers an exciting array of classes, including Beach Boot Camp, Bosu Boot Camp, Core Conditioning, Flinstones-esque free weights in the “Sand Box” (literally on the beach) and more; one complimentary matcha latte (almond and soy milks available) with all bike, SUP and kayak rentals at Pura Vida Ride; and a $50 credit at Wake Day Spa, which offers some of the best spa services on earth and also features an especially lovely boutique.

The Wellness Well package also includes a day trip to a secluded and magical farm surrounded by the lush Costa Rican rainforest and waterfalls on the slopes of the Rincón de la Vieja volcano, where you can wade in the remarkable “blue lagoon” whose spring water comes directly from the volcano and is naturally tinted an electric turquoise. During the farm visit, taste delicious homemade cheeses, traditional tortillas and Costa Rican coffee, and finish the day with lunch at a beautiful restaurant nestled in the middle of the jungle beside the lagoon. Rates for the Wellness Well Package start at $1500, including airport transfers and private accommodations with breakfast daily at the Santarena Hotel and all else noted above. All Las Catalinas reservations can be made via its preferred travel partner, Beach Town Travel; to book this package please visit Beach Town Travel.

Las Catalinas is designed to be a place to maintain or regain one’s physical and mental equilibrium and provides an ideal environment for feeling comfortable, healthy and happy. It is a place to rediscover the freedom of one’s own two feet and the joy of exploring. Whether wandering the streets, hiking through the forest, or strolling the beach, it’s easy to connect with nature, oneself and others in Las Catalinas. The beautiful natural world and charming town provide ample opportunities to ease the body and mind: Set out in the early morning mist on a paddleboard or kayak; engage in sunrise or sunset yoga on the beach; enjoy hiking and mountain biking through stunning coastal terrain. In conjunction with Pura Vida Ride, Las Catalinas offers one of the best playgrounds in the world for water sports and trail fanatics. Specializing in the rental and sale of standup paddle boards, mountain bikes, kayaks and other ocean and mountain sports equipment, Pura Vida Ride is located on Playa Danta in the heart of Las Catalinas and not only offers lessons and expeditions, but is also a full service bike repair shop and general store serving coffee, pastries, drinks and snacks. Las Catalinas together with Pura Vida Ride provide a special and truly unique place where people can enjoy first class sporting activities with ease.

About Las Catalinas

The conscious community of Las Catalinas is taking shape as Costa Rica’s newest desirable beach town. This highly walkable destination on Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Coast is well underway with 21 acres of land under development, a Beach Club and several full-time residents. When complete, there will be approximately 180 residences, 10 restaurants (four currently operating), several thousand square feet of office space, a town hall, over a dozen plazas and various other merchants. The town’s core values and beliefs include environmental stewardship, connection to one another and to the rhythms of nature.

Lectra announces the acquisition of the majority of the capital of TextileGenesis

Lectra extends its software offer to material traceabilityand reinforces its position in Industry 4.0

1. Earn Tax Benefits

2. Collect Credits and Reduce Payments

3. Reduce Reliance on Nonrenewable Energy Sources

4. Enjoy Increased Reliability

5. Enhance Your Home’s Resale Value

Solar Energy Could Save You Money

Lectra extends its software offer to material traceability
and reinforces its position in Industry 4.0