I arrive to a studio that is industrial, yet so refined and lived in that it’s more cozy than cold. Donovon is sitting in the makeup chair with a distant, yet determined stare. The crew is all doing their due diligence, getting to what needs to be done. I sit and observe a bit more as the shoot begins to unfold. CJ Robinson is alchemizing the backdrop and it’s starting to come together, and the conceptual mood board is becoming realized. I’m in awe–this man knows what he’s doing. Before my excitement spills out on the studio floor–I throw myself into the hustle and bustle too. There’s an array of tights and pointe shoes on the table before me. As he’s getting dressed, Donovon shares his inspiration behind today’s photoshoot. It is the wee hours of the night, Donovon is as young as 11 practicing and honing the grace and athleticism of ballet poses in the mirror. Practicing the placement of his hands, the pointe of his feet, and the intensity of his face so long he’d miss sleep, constantly being greeted by his alarm for school. Back to present day on set, the red painted across his face, the leotard, tights and shoes—this is a ballerina that has scars, but the beauty and grace to float through it all. The outfit is donned, the lights come on, and the camera is up–Donovon is on. After the freshly wrapped shoot, we sit down and talk a bit.

Mo: You’re looking good–you looked amazing! How are you feeling?

Donovon: I feel good, I was nervous at first. I felt like this was me getting my feet wet–it’s been a while, but I feel good. I feel accomplished…I feel fulfilled. I think this is definitely something that I needed because this is also a part of my healing. I feel really good.

Mo: Speaking of healing, what pushed you to create this shoot? I mean you came up with this concept, then watching the execution…where was your head at?

Donovon: So I believe this shoot was like three years in the making. I unfortunately had to step away for a little while–even though it was unintentionally and unwillingly. I was really just going through life, and I was in a situation that was not pouring into me–and it wasn’t prosperous. But, being in the thick of that relationship caused me to focus on other things, ultimately separating me from my art. Stepping away from my art is something that was challenging because it’s the way that I express myself–it fuels my soul. It fuels who I am as a person. Like I am truly an artist to my core. Over the past few months of me being isolated and being alone, I’ve really been able to process all that I’ve been through over these past three years.

This shoot was three years in the making.”- Donovon Alexander

Donovon: And it’s like damn boy, you’ve been through a lot! You need to heal, but you also need to really address certain things. So speaking on the headspace that I’m in and the headspace leading up to this–it was more so praying that this would be a release more than anything. Me just putting it all on the table, putting it on the floor–that’s what it was about.

Mo: That’s beautiful, and it felt beautiful to be apart of that release too. I seen in the beginning when you started the poses were a little bit more restricted, or structured. But as the shoot progressed you begin to flow and move more. I can totally see why this is the avenue for you, one–but two, how it can be so free and healing.

Donovon: It’s interesting that you say that because that naturally happened, but it was a originally a thought of mine when conceptualizing my mood board for people to actually see it. When I connected with Aana, the photographer, and was explaining to her the concept–I remember telling her think of a fetus growing. That’s why I wanted to do some of those poses in that fetal position. Kind of hiding, or like a newborn–or like that energy of not necessarily blossoming just yet. I wanted to continuously grow throughout the shoot to truly capture my rebirth.

Mo: I love that, and I do believe this is a rebirth. With this shoot being the start and catalyst, where do you feel like you wanna go next–creatively, or simply with how you go about expressing yourself? How do you wanna express yourself in this new era, this release, this blossoming–what’s next?

Donovon: What do I wanna do next? I was just telling Sam, the makeup artist, that during the pandemic and a little after I was heavily creating. I was shooting out concepts left and right–it was my happy place. It was where I felt most comfortable, that’s my element. So I want to tap back into that.

Donovon: I want to tap back into that, continue to create. Continue to pour into myself, and give myself all that love and energy that I have given to others–and other situations. I really wanna grow in my creativity and as a business man.

Mo: Yes! I love that, so you’re saying that creating is a form of self-love and self healing?

Donovon: For me it is.

Mo: What are some other ways that you like to express or go about showing self-love? What are some things you like to do for yourself?

Donovon: Honestly, lately over like the last year–I’ve been practicing being gentle with myself. I feel like that is a really important key element to self-love–giving yourself grace. Being gentle, and really showing up for yourself in the ways that you show up for other people. Especially if you’re an empathetic person. I think being someone who is extremely empathetic–I’m always on call for my people, my friends, my family–and not taking anything away from them. Creating some type of balance and structure to where I am able to pour into myself.

Mo: And I feel that, because a lot of times when you are a giver, you find that it’s constant extracting, extracting, extracting. Then it’s like when you go home what do you have left? How are you pouring into yourself?

Donovon: Exactly.

Mo: I love that–that’s something I need to keep in mind for myself. I think being gentle to yourself is important. Is it just gentle self-talk, or is it being like everything–

Donovon: Everything doesn’t have to be done so anxiously. But it’s also that gentle self-talk. You know, I am someone who is extremely hard on myself–I’m very “Type A” in many different ways. I’m learning to be like you know what baby boy, it’s okay.

Mo: Yeah.

Everything doesn’t have to be done so anxiously. It’s okay baby boy.” – Donovon Alexander

Mo: Within that gentleness, finding self-love–this rebirthing process, what are you aiming for in the end? What does happiness and freedom look like after this process?

Donovon: I don’t believe there’s an “after this process,” honestly–I feel like it’s an ever evolving journey. I’m in my journey of giving the world my work. I have really big dreams and really big goals, and I look at this like it’s the groundwork to achieve certain things that I do see for myself. So yeah, it’s not like an after–it’s moreso ever evolving. The continuation of the legacy of Donovon Alexander.

Mo: And with that continuation of legacy and evolution, who do you want the world to know about Donovon Alexander. Who is Donovon Alexander?

Donovon: Donovon Alexander is really like this quirky, sometimes a little nerdy, silly, and goofy as hell person. The closest people to me know I’m like a mini Jim Carrey.

Mo: The faces and all?!

[Laughter]

Donovon: Yeah, I want the world to know me as someone who has had so much adversity and so many things put on me and against me–and I just continue to fight through it all. Being Black and queer and from Chicago–I grew up on the Southside of Chicago. It wasn’t an easy thing.

Mo: Yeah.

Donovon: I had to suppress a lot, I had to learn how to survive at a very early and tender age. Which is crazy because now growing, being older, and being an adult now–I find myself in a lot of situations realizing that certain lessons that people are learning in their 20s, I learned that shit at like 11/12.

Donovon: So it’s like being an adult now, being able to recognize just how harsh that is–I want to heal that. And, that goes back again to that healing journey. But as far as who I want the world to know me as, I’d like people to know me as someone who really just didn’t fold. Like I didn’t tap out. I continued to push, I continued to fight. I’m a lover, but I’m also a fighter as well. That I fight for the shit that I love and the shit that I believe in. I fight for me, I’ve always had to fight for myself–even when I didn’t want to.

Mo: I kinda wanna tap into that a bit, and you can tell me if I’m projecting or not. But, it seems like we’re talking about survival, and going from survival mode and into more peaceful times?

Donovon: Yes, for sure.

Mo: With that, how do you feel Chicago has shaped your perspective in the way that you go about creating art, or even the way you go about chasing your dreams in New York?

Donovon: I feel Chicago has shaped my perspective in many different ways. Anyone who’s met me knows that I am extremely business oriented. I believe in over-communicating, I’d rather be safe than sorry. I am someone that doesn’t take lightly to bullshit, which I feel is definitely like core Chicago.

Mo: No, really.

Donovon: It’s a no bullshit type of energy and presence that I know that I hold and I have. I’m understanding that this can be intimidating in certain rooms, and to certain people, but it’s me—it’s who I am. It comes from a place of wanting to protect myself, but also it’s like take me serious—or Imma have to show you I’m serious. As an artist I am extremely intentional, thorough, and I’m accurate.

Mo: Yeah.

Donovan: You know? I believe in quality. I don’t just wanna just have an idea and throw some bullshit out there. I believe in actually pouring into my ideas and visions.

As an artist I am extremely intentional, thorough, and I’m accurate.” – Donovon Alexander

Mo: And that intentionality is so obviously reflected in your art. Having the ability and privilege to watch you on set was amazing. Now there’s a lot of people out here calling themselves models, but to see you work it was like “on” as soon as the lights and camera came on! I think that it was beautiful, so I can definitely tell you are intentional about what you do. With rebuilding and rebirth, we begin to rebuild around us—what does your ideal found family within this process look like?

Donovon: People who show up for themselves and are able to show up for others. I tell my friends this all the time, I am truly blessed because I’m not someone who has to look far for inspiration. Like, my friends are so inspiring—even though we are in different fields. The way my friends show up and do their shit…

Mo: Yeah.

Donovon: …It’s like when it comes down to my family, my chosen family, that’s what I like to have around me. You know I run a tight ship!

Mo: What?! [laughs]

Donovon: [Laughing] I am not someone who is just like extremely open to just having any and everyone be behind and all around me.

Mo: Yeah, I can see that.

Donovon: And some people may feel a type of way about that—but again at the end of the day that’s how I protect myself and my energy. But, it’s also because there’s a lot of weird shit out here.

Mo: Oh yeah.

Donovon: And a lot of weird people! I’m a good person, my friends are good people. We pour into each other, we believe in God. And, I’m not saying if you don’t believe in God you’re a bad person, everyone has their own prerogative and perspective. But, you know, I love Jesus and I love the fact that I’m surround by like-minded people. Not like-minded people in the way of “yes men,” like-minded people in the way that we all have really big goals and really big dreams—and we do what it takes to achieve them. So my chosen family looks like that. And if you’re someone, like a newer person I end up connecting with, I’m open to it! But just understand that this isn’t a bullshit type of friendship. It’s like, I don’t have negative people around me. I don’t have people who are lazy around me. If you gone be my friend and be in my circle, I need to know what the fuck you want out of life! I need to see you pushing forward.

Mo: For sure.

Donovon: Because birds of a feather flock together, and I can’t have no weak links around me.

Mo: I feel that! Iron definitely sharpens iron. If you have people around you not pushing you to do something…

Donovon: Exactly!

Mo: …It’s easy to fall off.

Donovon: So easy.

Mo: So easy to fall off. I loved this. I just wanna wish you the best of luck in all of your endeavors, and what you continue to do. What you’re working on is beautiful. Being able to witness it was beautiful. You are beautiful! This whole thing is beautiful. Thank you so much for allowing me to do this with you, and be apart of it.

Donovon: Thank you!

Mo: Of course! I appreciate you!

Donovon: Give me a hug! I appreciate that. Thank you so much.

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Nike Sportswear has officially announced the launch of the highly anticipated Nike 26 Collab Kits, created in partnership with . The release marks another chapter in the ongoing relationship between two brands that have consistently pushed the boundaries between sport, streetwear, and contemporary culture.

The new collection reflects the growing influence of football within global fashion and youth culture. What was once exclusively performance apparel has evolved into a powerful style statement, with football kits becoming an essential part of modern streetwear wardrobes. The Nike 26 Collab Kits embrace this cultural shift, blending athletic heritage with Palace’s distinctive creative identity.

Known for its bold graphics, irreverent approach to design, and deep roots in skate culture, Palace brings a unique perspective to Nike’s sportswear legacy. The collaboration celebrates the intersection of football, skateboarding, and street fashion, creating pieces that resonate far beyond the pitch.

Over the past decade, football-inspired fashion has become one of the most influential movements within the luxury and streetwear industries. Major brands have increasingly embraced the aesthetic of football culture, transforming jerseys and training apparel into coveted fashion items worn by athletes, musicians, creatives, and fashion enthusiasts alike. The Nike 26 Collab Kits continue this evolution, positioning football as a central force within contemporary style.

The collection will be available through an early access release on June 12 via Palace Skateboards and England channels, giving dedicated fans the opportunity to secure pieces ahead of the global launch. A wider release will follow on June 16 through Nike’s platform and selected retail partners worldwide.

Beyond the products themselves, the collaboration represents a broader cultural conversation about the convergence of sport, fashion, and lifestyle. As brands continue to explore new ways of engaging with younger audiences, collaborations such as Nike x Palace demonstrate how football remains one of the most powerful cultural languages of the modern era.

With the Nike 26 Collab Kits, Nike Sportswear and Palace Skateboards once again deliver a project that captures the spirit of contemporary youth culture while reinforcing the enduring connection between performance, creativity, and global fashion.

Early Access: June 12
Global Release: June 16 via SNKRS and selected retailers worldwide.

Source: Nike Sportswear / Palace Skateboards.

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Luxury is often defined by what we see. True luxury, however, is defined by the hands that create it.

With the introduction of the LV Buttersoft Speedy, Louis Vuitton once again demonstrates why craftsmanship remains at the very core of its identity. More than a new handbag, the Buttersoft Speedy represents a celebration of the artisans, techniques, and generations of expertise that continue to shape one of the world’s most influential luxury houses.

Under the creative direction of , the project highlights an often-overlooked aspect of luxury fashion: the collective mastery behind every creation.

A Legacy Built by Generations of Artisans

Every Louis Vuitton piece begins long before it reaches boutiques or appears in global campaigns. Behind each design lies a network of highly skilled craftsmen whose expertise has been refined through years—and often generations—of dedication.

From leather selectors who identify the finest materials to cutters responsible for precision pattern work, from seamstresses who assemble intricate details to artisans who complete the final construction, each step requires extraordinary attention to detail.

The LV Buttersoft Speedy serves as a tribute to these specialists, emphasizing that true luxury is not solely about design, but about the people whose craftsmanship transforms raw materials into enduring objects of desire.

This commitment to excellence has allowed Louis Vuitton to maintain its position at the forefront of luxury for more than a century and a half, creating products that embody both innovation and tradition.

Pharrell Williams’ Vision for Modern Luxury

Since joining Louis Vuitton as Men’s Creative Director, Pharrell Williams has brought a fresh cultural perspective to the historic French house.

Rather than separating fashion from art, music, culture, and craftsmanship, Williams has consistently explored the connections between these worlds. His approach has helped introduce a new generation of consumers to the heritage and values that define Louis Vuitton.

The LV Buttersoft Speedy reflects this philosophy perfectly. While contemporary in spirit, the bag remains deeply connected to the traditions that have shaped the Maison’s reputation.

By spotlighting the artisans behind the product, Pharrell reinforces the idea that luxury should celebrate human creativity as much as it celebrates design itself.

The Evolution of an Icon

The Speedy remains one of Louis Vuitton’s most recognizable silhouettes. Over the decades, it has evolved alongside changing tastes while retaining the timeless appeal that made it a global icon.

The Buttersoft interpretation introduces a softer, more refined expression of the classic design. Its construction emphasizes texture, comfort, and sophistication while preserving the instantly recognizable character that has defined the Speedy for generations.

This balance between heritage and innovation has become one of Louis Vuitton’s greatest strengths—continuously reinventing its icons without losing their essence.

Beyond Fashion: A Cultural Statement

Today’s luxury landscape extends far beyond products. Consumers increasingly seek authenticity, craftsmanship, and meaningful stories behind the items they purchase.

The LV Buttersoft Speedy responds to this shift by placing the spotlight on the individuals whose expertise gives the bag its value. In doing so, Louis Vuitton reminds audiences that luxury is not only about exclusivity—it is also about preserving knowledge, supporting craftsmanship, and honoring creative traditions.

The project also reflects a broader cultural movement within fashion, where heritage, artistry, and human skill are becoming as important as celebrity endorsements and runway presentations.

The Future of Savoir-Faire

As technology continues to transform the fashion industry, the importance of craftsmanship remains undeniable. The LV Buttersoft Speedy stands as a reminder that while trends evolve, the value of exceptional workmanship endures.

For Louis Vuitton, the future of luxury lies in continuing to blend innovation with heritage, ensuring that centuries-old techniques remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.

Through the vision of Pharrell Williams and the dedication of countless artisans, the LV Buttersoft Speedy becomes more than an accessory. It becomes a symbol of the enduring relationship between creativity, culture, and craftsmanship.

In an era increasingly driven by speed and automation, Louis Vuitton’s latest creation reminds us that some of the most valuable things in fashion can still only be made by hand.

Written by Licence Magazine – Covering the intersection of fashion, luxury, culture, and global creativity.

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French luxury house Lanvin has officially appointed Barbara Werschine as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership transition for one of France’s oldest and most iconic fashion maisons.

The appointment arrives at a pivotal moment for the brand as Lanvin continues its global repositioning strategy and seeks to strengthen its presence within the increasingly competitive luxury market. Industry insiders view the decision as part of a broader transformation aimed at modernizing the house while preserving its historic identity and cultural relevance.

Before joining Lanvin, Barbara Werschine served as Chief Executive Officer of Bompard, where she spent four years successfully revitalizing the renowned cashmere specialist. Under her leadership, the company experienced both creative modernization and improved financial performance, reinforcing her reputation as one of the luxury sector’s most respected executives.

Her impressive career portfolio also includes senior leadership roles at some of fashion’s most influential houses, including Hermès, Celine, Louis Vuitton, and Zadig & Voltaire. During her time at Hermès, Werschine notably worked as director of leather goods collections — contributing to one of the most prestigious and commercially successful categories in luxury fashion.

The announcement signals a new chapter for Lanvin as the house continues balancing heritage craftsmanship with contemporary innovation. In a luxury landscape increasingly driven by lifestyle experiences, brand storytelling, and global cultural influence, Werschine’s strategic expertise could play a crucial role in expanding Lanvin’s ambitions beyond traditional ready-to-wear.

As executive reshuffling continues across the fashion industry, attention will now turn toward how Barbara Werschine will guide Lanvin into its next era — one defined by reinvention, modern luxury, and international growth.

Source: WWD
Words by Licence Magazine

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The fashion industry continues its ongoing wave of creative reshuffling as Henry Zankov has officially been appointed Artistic Director of DVF.

The announcement, revealed through the brand’s official channels, marks a significant new chapter for the iconic American fashion house founded by Diane von Furstenberg. In his new role, Zankov will oversee the complete creative vision of the brand — from ready-to-wear collections to campaigns, image direction, and overall visual identity.

His highly anticipated debut collection for DVF is expected to be unveiled during New York Fashion Week in September 2026.

Widely recognized for his elevated knitwear creations and refined contemporary craftsmanship, Henry Zankov has steadily established himself as one of the most promising creative voices within New York’s fashion scene. His aesthetic — blending texture, sophistication, modern tailoring, and understated luxury — appears naturally aligned with DVF’s enduring legacy of femininity, confidence, and effortless glamour.

The appointment also reflects a broader movement across the luxury industry, where heritage houses continue embracing a younger and more contemporary generation of creative leaders in order to reconnect with evolving global audiences.

Founded by Diane von Furstenberg, the house remains internationally celebrated for its cultural influence and pioneering vision of female empowerment through fashion. For decades, DVF has embodied independence, sensuality, and timeless elegance — values that now enter a new era under Zankov’s direction.

As anticipation builds around his first runway presentation, the industry will be closely watching how Henry Zankov reinterprets the identity of DVF for a new generation of luxury consumers.

This new creative chapter could ultimately become one of the most compelling transformations in American luxury fashion in the years ahead.

A new creative era begins for DVF under the vision of Henry Zankov — a designer whose modern sophistication and elevated craftsmanship could redefine the future of the iconic house while preserving its timeless spirit.

— Licence Magazine

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In today’s fashion industry  where creative directors are expected to balance heritage, innovation, and commercial relevance simultaneously  has quietly emerged as one of the most compelling creative forces redefining modern luxury.

Recognized for his refined aesthetic and multidisciplinary approach to design, the Australian creative has built an impressive career through collaborations with some of fashion’s most respected houses before stepping into a major international spotlight as the new creative director of .

A Career Built Across Fashion’s Creative Capitals

Mario Arena’s professional journey reflects a new generation of fashion creatives whose careers move fluidly between design, branding, consulting, and artistic direction. Before joining JOSEPH, Arena worked with influential labels such as , , and .

These experiences helped shape his signature visual language  one rooted in minimalism, precise tailoring, architectural silhouettes, and understated sophistication.

Rather than focusing solely on trends, Arena developed a reputation for creating collections that balance modern wearability with strong conceptual direction. His work often explores clean lines, neutral palettes, elevated essentials, and a quiet interpretation of luxury increasingly embraced by contemporary consumers worldwide.

From Independent Vision to Global Fashion Influence

Beyond his work within established houses, Mario Arena also pursued independent creative ventures through his own platform, Arena International, while launching his label ENLIST. Through these projects, he expanded his approach to creative consulting, fashion strategy, and visual identity development.

His ability to navigate between independent creativity and large-scale luxury fashion quickly attracted attention across the industry, particularly among brands seeking a more refined, intelligent, and culturally aware direction.

Arena’s growing influence has also connected him to the broader luxury ecosystem, including creative collaborations and industry links associated with and several major European fashion houses.

A New Chapter at JOSEPH

Mario Arena’s appointment at JOSEPH marks an important moment for the British luxury house. Historically known for timeless wardrobe staples and contemporary tailoring, the brand has been seeking renewed creative energy capable of reconnecting with a younger global audience while preserving its sophisticated identity.

Arena’s arrival appears to signal exactly that evolution.

Industry observers increasingly associate him with the rise of “quiet luxury” a fashion movement centered around craftsmanship, subtle elegance, longevity, and intelligent design rather than overt branding or fast-moving trends.

Rather than reinventing fashion through excess, Mario Arena’s greatest strength lies in refinement. His creative vision reflects a modern understanding of luxury: discreet, intentional, and culturally relevant.

Defining the Future of Modern Fashion

As fashion continues evolving between digital influence, global luxury expansion, and shifting consumer expectations, creatives like Mario Arena represent the future of the industry  designers capable of combining artistic sensitivity with strategic vision.

Although still relatively discreet compared to celebrity creative directors dominating headlines, his influence continues to grow steadily within international fashion circles. With a career spanning luxury houses, independent ventures, and global creative collaborations, Mario Arena is increasingly establishing himself as one of the key names shaping contemporary fashion.

For an industry constantly searching for authenticity and innovation, his journey proves that modern luxury does not always need to be loud to leave a lasting impact.

Ultimately, Mario Arena represents a new generation of creatives redefining contemporary luxury through subtlety, precision, and vision. As the industry continues to evolve, his approach proves that true modern elegance lies not in excess, but in thoughtful design and timeless sophistication.

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In the world of luxury fragrance, few maisons embody sensual storytelling quite like . With its latest message  “Don’t be shy about love. Spoil your loved ones.” — the house once again positions perfume as far more than a beauty essential. It becomes a symbol of affection, identity, intimacy, and emotional connection.

Founded by , the Parisian fragrance house has built a distinct reputation through its fusion of craftsmanship, elegance, and modern seduction. Rather than relying on conventional beauty advertising, Kilian Paris consistently transforms fragrance into an immersive emotional experience  one rooted in desire, memory, confidence, and romance.

This latest campaign reflects a broader evolution happening within luxury culture, where gifting has become increasingly personal and emotionally expressive. In today’s fashion and beauty landscape, fragrance is no longer viewed as a simple accessory. Instead, it serves as an extension of personality, mood, and lifestyle. Whether through warm amber accords, delicate florals, or deep woody compositions, perfume has evolved into one of the most intimate forms of luxury consumption.

The campaign also aligns with the growing rise of emotional luxury — a movement redefining the industry by prioritizing meaning, intimacy, and self-expression over pure exclusivity. Consumers today are increasingly drawn to products that create genuine emotional value and memorable experiences, rather than simply displaying status.

Visually, Kilian Paris continues to maintain its unmistakable identity: dark glamour, cinematic sensuality, and refined sophistication. The maison’s iconic fragrance bottles  often inspired by art deco aesthetics and evening elegance  have become instantly recognizable among collectors and luxury enthusiasts worldwide.

As luxury beauty continues its rapid global expansion, fragrance remains one of the industry’s fastest-growing sectors. Houses like Kilian Paris are helping shape that evolution by transforming perfume into a cultural language one that speaks of romance, confidence, seduction, and modern indulgence.

With this new message, Kilian Paris reminds audiences that true luxury is not always defined by extravagance. Sometimes, luxury is simply the ability to express love freely, sincerely, and without hesitation.

Ultimately, Kilian Paris continues to prove that fragrance is more than scent  it is emotion bottled into elegance, inviting people to celebrate love, desire, and connection through every spray.

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At the second Métiers d’Art 2026 presentation in Seoul, South Korea, Jennie once again demonstrated why she remains one of the most influential faces of modern luxury fashion. Attending the latest showcase by Chanel, the global star delivered a sophisticated reinterpretation of the Maison’s timeless codes  this time through the fresh lens of creative director Matthieu Blazy.

Hosted at the striking Centre Pompidou Hanwha, the event brought together fashion insiders, celebrities, and cultural tastemakers for one of the season’s most anticipated luxury moments. But as expected, Jennie’s appearance quickly became one of the defining highlights of the evening.

Wearing a look from Chanel’s Cruise 2027 collection, Jennie embraced a sleek navy ensemble that balanced elegance with effortless modernity. Her outfit featured a plunging backless top accented with crisp white nautical trim, subtly echoing the silhouette of a vintage one-piece swimsuit while remaining unmistakably Chanel. At the center of the look, a gold metallic detail shaped into the iconic double “C” logo added a refined statement touch.

The singer paired the top with high-waisted tailored navy trousers adorned with braided gold buttons — a direct nod to the maritime inspirations often revisited throughout Chanel’s history. However, it was Jennie’s styling choice that elevated the runway look into something uniquely personal. Rather than wearing the matching jacket as originally presented, she carried it casually over her arm, transforming a classic suit into a more relaxed and contemporary silhouette.

The appearance further highlighted the evolving creative direction of Matthieu Blazy at Chanel. Since taking the reins of the Maison, the designer has continuously explored ways to modernize heritage fashion codes without losing their identity. Jennie’s look perfectly reflected that philosophy: timeless yet youthful, polished yet effortless.

As luxury fashion increasingly moves toward individuality and personal styling, moments like this prove why Jennie continues to resonate far beyond music. Her influence lies not only in what she wears, but in how she transforms runway fashion into a cultural statement instantly embraced by a global audience.

Photo credits: Han Myung-Gu/WireImage/Getty Images & The Chosunilbo JNS/ImaZinS/Getty Images.

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In recent years, Congolese artist has become one of the most influential voices representing a new generation of African music on the global stage. Known for his energetic performances, modern sound, and strong cultural identity, the artist continues to push Congolese music beyond borders while introducing international audiences to his signature “AfroCongo” style — a unique fusion of Afrobeat, Congolese rumba, ndombolo, and contemporary urban sounds.

Born in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, Innoss’B began his musical journey at a very young age as part of the family group Maisha Soul. His breakthrough came after winning the Vodacom Superstar competition, a moment that helped launch his professional career and positioned him as one of the country’s most promising young talents. Since then, the artist has continued to evolve creatively, building a powerful image around authenticity, innovation, and African pride.

Over the years, Innoss’B has delivered several successful songs that have gained massive popularity across Africa and within the global African diaspora. Tracks like Yo Pe, Ozo Beta Mabe, and other collaborations helped establish him as one of the leading names in modern Congolese music. His viral hit Yo Pe especially became a cultural phenomenon, earning international recognition and opening doors for collaborations with artists from different parts of the world.

What makes Innoss’B stand out is not only his music but also the way he represents a new creative era for Congo. His artistic direction combines modern visuals, fashion influence, dance culture, and African storytelling in a way that connects strongly with younger audiences. Through his work, he continues to show that Congolese artists can compete internationally while still preserving their cultural roots and musical heritage.

As his international profile continues to grow, Innoss’B is now preparing for another major moment in his career with a highly anticipated concert scheduled for October 2026 in Paris. The announcement has already generated excitement among fans across Africa, Europe, and especially within the Congolese diaspora. For many supporters, this upcoming show represents more than a concert — it is a celebration of Congolese creativity, ambition, and global influence.

The October performance is expected to bring together music lovers from different communities for an unforgettable live experience filled with energy, dance, emotion, and powerful stage production. Known for his explosive performances and deep connection with his audience, Innoss’B has built a reputation as an artist capable of transforming every concert into a cultural experience.

Beyond entertainment, his rise also reflects the growing international attention being given to African urban music. Artists from across the continent are increasingly shaping global music conversations, and Innoss’B is undoubtedly among the key names contributing to that movement. By blending tradition with innovation, he continues to redefine how modern Congolese music is perceived worldwide.

With this upcoming October concert, Innoss’B once again confirms his ambition to elevate Congolese music to even greater heights. As fans eagerly await the event, one thing remains clear: the “Jeune Leader” is not only building a successful career but also creating a lasting impact on African music culture internationally.

Written for Licence Magazine

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In an era where fashion is constantly redefining itself through innovation, sustainability, and cultural storytelling, few emerging brands are managing to create a language as authentic and emotionally resonant as . Founded by Nigerian creative visionary , the brand is becoming a distinctive voice in contemporary African fashion one rooted deeply in heritage while speaking confidently to the future.

On June 26, the designer will present her work at the iconic in Paris, a location known globally for celebrating art, culture, and civilizations from across the world. The moment marks more than a runway appearance; it symbolizes the growing global recognition of African creativity and the rising influence of designers who are reshaping luxury through identity, craftsmanship, and purpose.

Fashion as Memory, Ritual, and Identity

At the heart of Estaz lies a philosophy that transcends trends. Every garment carries a sense of story, spirituality, and cultural memory. The brand’s use of raw materials, hand-sewn cowrie shells, textured fabrics, and organic fringes evokes a visual language connected to earth, ritual, ancestry, and feminine energy.

Cowrie shells  historically significant across many African cultures as symbols of wealth, spirituality, protection, and femininity become more than decorative elements in Esther Okonta’s work. They transform into living symbols stitched carefully into each silhouette, creating garments that feel both ancient and contemporary.

The fringes move like poetry. The textures feel intentional. Nothing appears accidental. Estaz designs embrace imperfection, authenticity, and emotional depth in ways that challenge the polished uniformity often dominating modern fashion spaces.

Through this approach, Esther Okonta creates pieces that do not simply dress women  they empower them.

Sustainability Rooted in African Craftsmanship

Sustainability has become one of fashion’s most discussed topics, yet for many African designers, conscious craftsmanship has existed long before it became a global industry trend. Estaz approaches sustainability not as marketing, but as cultural responsibility.

The brand emphasizes eco-conscious production methods, thoughtful material sourcing, hand-crafted detailing, and timeless construction designed to outlive seasonal consumption. Each creation reflects patience, artistry, and respect for handmade traditions.

In a fashion landscape increasingly driven by fast production and disposable aesthetics, Estaz stands apart by choosing intentionality over excess. The garments feel collectible, emotional, and enduring.

This balance between sustainability and luxury positions the brand within a new generation of African fashion houses redefining what global fashion can represent. Rather than imitating Western standards, Estaz proudly centers African narratives, textures, and craftsmanship while maintaining an elevated international appeal.

Empowering Women Through Design

Femininity within the Estaz universe is bold, spiritual, fearless, and deeply connected to self-expression. Esther Okonta designs for women who understand the power of presence  women who move through the world with confidence, elegance, and authenticity.

The silhouettes often embody fluidity and strength simultaneously, creating a dialogue between softness and power. Earth-inspired palettes, handcrafted detailing, and sculptural movement allow each look to feel emotionally alive.

There is also a deeper social dimension behind the brand’s identity. Through craftsmanship and storytelling, Estaz contributes to preserving African artisanal knowledge while creating visibility for women-centered narratives within fashion.

In many ways, the brand reflects the modern African woman herself: rooted yet global, traditional yet progressive, spiritual yet contemporary.

Paris as a Global Stage

Presenting at the Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac represents a significant milestone for Esther Okonta and the wider movement of African designers gaining international recognition.

Paris remains one of the most influential capitals in global fashion, and showcasing within such a culturally symbolic institution reinforces the importance of African voices in shaping the future of the industry.

For Estaz, this runway moment is not simply about visibility — it is about representation. It is about bringing African craftsmanship, symbolism, and sustainable innovation into spaces that have historically overlooked the continent’s creative depth.

The presentation is expected to highlight the essence of the brand: tactile storytelling, ancestral references, contemporary silhouettes, and emotionally charged craftsmanship.

The Rise of a New African Fashion Narrative

Across the continent, a new wave of designers is redefining luxury through authenticity, cultural preservation, and innovation. Esther Okonta belongs to a generation refusing to separate fashion from meaning.

Estaz demonstrates that African fashion is not a trend or a temporary fascination. It is a creative force shaping the global industry through originality, heritage, and vision.

As audiences increasingly seek emotional connection and purpose within fashion, brands like Estaz resonate because they offer more than aesthetics. They offer identity. They offer history. They offer intention.

And perhaps most importantly, they remind the world that fashion can still carry soul.

Written for LICENCE MAGAZINE
Fashion • Culture • Global Creative Voices

The post Estaz by Esther Okonta: A Celebration of African Heritage, Sustainability, and Feminine Power appeared first on Licence Magazine.