OFLO, known to friends and family as Olivia Florentino, is extremely unapologetic.

If you aren’t familiar with OFLO, the SF-born-NYC-based singer, songwriter, and producer is a bicoastal triple threat. 

She’s also at a point in her life where, like most of us, she’s been through it: heartbreak, jealousy, falling in love and not always having it requited. They’re often the lowest times in our lives that we’d rather not talk about, yet it’s these very moments that can also have the greatest influence on who we are.

OFLO acknowledges this dichotomy with her newest EP, “Thank You,” which features some of her most honest work yet. On each track, the singer highlights a different struggle she’s gone through; but, what’s more, she shares how it’s helped shape who she is today.

Check out the interview and exclusive photos below!

What separates this EP from your other work?

This EP is really special to me primarily because I feel like it’s an expression of my personal growth. In my opinion, each song tells a very personal story, and really gives the listener a glimpse into a specific moment in time.

READ ALSO: This video is a love letter addressed to the incredible city of Los Angeles

What inspired the incredibly personal track list?

Over the past few years, many life lessons have come to me in the form of heartbreak, frustration, failed relationships, etc. Many have also come in the form of wonderful relationships, new experiences, and opportunities.

All of them have been significant, though, and have allowed me in one way or another to grow, mature, and move forward without fear. In my eyes, this EP is an authentic reflection of the emotional process that is “entering adulthood.”

The emotional track “Thank You,” seems to talk about heartbreak while simultaneously thanking the person you ended things with — could you tell us more about that?

On a surface level, this song is about my most devastating breakup. Things ended badly, and it left me pretty messed up. That being said, at the time I was pretty messed up already. I was emotionally immature, needy, and obsessive.

I showed myself very little love or respect of any kind. However, I was able to see that in retrospect, going through such a difficult, and vulnerable experience allowed me to grow significantly as a person, a friend, and as a partner.

So, on a deeper level, this song is about how grateful I am for having been able to experience those hardships, and come out with a better and stronger sense of self-worth.

“Starlight,” also alludes to some majorly mixed feelings about falling in love, no?

This song really portrays the dual nature of falling for someone that can’t or won’t reciprocate your feelings. On one hand, falling for someone can be exciting and exhilarating, while on the other, it can be absolutely draining and very painful. Starlight is about both the rush, as well as the crash of being infatuated.

READ ALSO:This girl wrote a book for young women struggling with borderline personality disorder

“Jealous,” is painfully relatable in that it seems to tell the age-old tale of the fuckboy who wants what he can’t have. What happened there?

This song is one of my favorites because I think that lyrically, it tells a very specific story. I won’t get too deep into it, but it’s basically, it’s an FU to this dude I developed feelings for, who liked having me around, but never wanted anything “serious.”

The gag is, it wasn’t until months later, when he knew I was in a relationship, that he started trying to get my attention. This song is an expression of my frustration and annoyance with the situation, but also my strange attraction to that toxic relationship.

“Dreamin’,” the final song on the EP, has its own distinct sound. What went through your head while writing it?

“Dreamin’” is about that feeling you get when you first develop a crush on someone and you just can’t get enough of them. I love this song in particular because I think it has a very fun, sexy, feminine vibe to it. It’s like the feeling of having someone special on your mind 24/7, and wanting nothing more than to just see them.

Click here to get in on the action and hear the full EP.

For more of OFLO’s work, check out her site.

Photos by Keri Dolan

If you’re obsessed with makeup as much as we are here at Galore, you’re already hip to the Huda Beauty brand by makeup queen, Huda Kattan. 

While Huda is most popular for her lashes and eyeshadow palettes, nothing has brought more buzz to the brand as their Rose Gold palette.

#TBT.

If you weren’t lucky enough to grab the palette before it (literally) sold out everywhere, don’t even trip! It’s coming back with vengeance.

READ ALSO: This expert knows how to find the best skincare products for summer

Who has tried our #hudabeautyrosegoldremastered palette?

A post shared by Huda Kattan (@hudabeauty) on May 26, 2018 at 4:17am PDT

Join Galore Beauty for exclusive convos, content and more.

The MUA and blogger created a million dollar business with Huda Beauty, and over 25 million people stan the brand and its’ products. Building on the crazy success of the first edition, Huda is bringing this palette back in a new and improved way.

Huda took to the customer feedback of the first version to develop more intense shades, creamier formulas, and basically, life changing textures, to make this palette an absolute must-have for beauty lovers everywhere.

The Remastered palette combines 18 luxurious eyeshadows: 8 Melted Metal shadows, 8 highly pigmented mattes, 1 pressed pearl, and 1 wet/dry black shadow. This palette will take your eye makeup game anywhere from casual chic to bold and metallic.

Swatches by @andziathere #hudabeautyrosegoldremastered

A post shared by Huda Kattan (@hudabeauty) on May 24, 2018 at 3:22am PDT

READ ALSO: Urban Decay’s Naked Heat Palette is perfect for some fiery summer beats 

The palette launched on May 22nd and a week later it is already sold out (HOW?!?).

It will be back at Sephora on July 20th, and will probably sell out fast af again. You can only also cop it from her website, which is also sold out. So, make sure to join the waitlist to be the first to know when it’s restocked.

Photographer: ChenMan 

Hair: Eduardo Bravo 

New Balance recently released a new sneaker line with all of your activities in mind.

From your next grueling workout to Friday night with the girls, these sneakers have you set. Even though the collections’ bright color accents may intimidate you, these sneakers are actually totally wearable – and cute af. 

1. Night Out

Shoes: New Balance, Dress: Zara, Bag: Abaco via Reformation

The collection, the Otruska Pack, is Russian inspired, and offers the chance to wear shoes that had soccer and lifestyle in mind ­– meaning, these shoes were designed to be worn anywhere.

We have styled two pairs sneakers from the Otruska Pack (the Women’s Fresh Foam Cruz v2 Sport and the 574 Sport Tournament) to show you just have versatile they are – between casual, day time looks, intense workouts, and sexy, nights-out, we have some style inspo for how to rock these bad boys.

READ ALSO: ANTM model, Tatiana Elizabeth, is licensed to help your skin look flawless af

2. Brunch Vibes

Shoes: New Balance, Full outfit: Reformation

This line was designed with key shoutouts to Russia, because the country is hosting one of its biggest footballing years to date. The Otruska Pack includes the new New Balance Football boot, the Tekela, the upgraded Furon 4.0 boot, the 574 Sport and the stylish Fresh Foam Cruz Sport lifestyle shoe.

All of the sneakers come in a striking white (these babies are blinding) with a flame red, almost coral, detail. The Otruska Pack was inspired by the mythical two-headed hellhound, Orthus. The pack represents “attack in dual form – ferocity and deception,” says New Balance.

3. V Casual

Shoes: New Balance, Top: Reformation, Shorts: Vintage

The new boot, Tekela, is made with a full foot micro fibre upper, and features dynamic kinetic stitch embroidered bands. This boot offers exceptional stability, feel, and touch, and “is for the innovators who use speed and maneuverability to change the outcome of games,” explains New Balance.

The outsole has also been engineered for agility, featuring a TPU with inlayed nylon chassis. The boot also features conical studs providing 360-degree rotational traction, and is finished with an electro chrome-plated outsole in flame.

4. Sweat Sesh

Shoes: New Balance, Sports bra and pants: Varley, Top: Free People

Which sneaker from the collection is your fave? Shop the collection HERE.

Photos by Patrick Erskine

Styling by Mallie Koczon

Between touring with bands like The 1975, and gearing up to tour with Vance Joy, Cub Sport is on the rise and has a backstory that will hit you riiight in the feels.

Not only did the band’s two front members fall in love after a history of childhood friendship and making music together, they’re now engaged and planning a wedding for this summer.

I’m not crying, you’re crying!

On top of that, Cub Sport self-manages, and they are known for their activism regarding same sex marriage and LGBT rights in Australia.

If those things aren’t reason enough for you to check this band out, then peep our interview below for more info on falling in love, coming out to family members, and music.

How did the band become Cub Sport? Where does this name come from?

We were originally called Cub Scouts – we released a couple of EPs under that name. Then one day, we received a letter from Scouts Australia saying we weren’t allowed to use the word ‘scout’ in our name. We ran through a bunch of different ideas for a word to replace ‘scout’ and ended up landing on ‘sport’ – I’m glad we had to change it.

How has your music progressed over the years – from the start of the band to your most current music?

I feel like the music has always been a reflection of where I was at the time of writing and recording. What started out as a kinda light-hearted, indie-pop project has transformed into something that feels much deeper. I spent a lot of my late teen/early adult years struggling with my identity.

I came out as gay halfway through writing our second album, “BATS,” which was a huge part of the transformation of Cub Sport. I feel more free with my writing now and like I’ve got more clarity around my creative vision for Cub Sport.

READ ALSO: Drag Diaries: Vanilla Tight Ass is florida’s sweetheart

What has the response to your coming out and engagement been like from your family?

Really lovely!

And your fans?

Our fans have been incredible – the love and good vibes are seriously heart-warming.

Tell us about the moment on your trip to LA when you realized you were in love with Sam.

I went on a trip in mid-2015 where I was working with various producers and writers in LA and London. I missed Sam heaps during that time but it was actually while I was in Berlin on a mini-holiday after being in London that I came to the realization. I met Cyril Hahn and his wife, Jackie, one night in Berlin. Jackie asked me if I was in love – I told her I was happily single.

When I got home that night, I just kept thinking “Oh my god, am I in love?” I grew up in a pretty religious world and had been avoiding acknowledging my sexuality for a while, so I had a bit to work through. Writing the second album, “BATS,” ended up being a way for me to process what I was going through. It was easier to let it out into songs than to speak about it.

How did you tell each other you were in love? Was it just understood, or did a conversation take place where you discussed that you had become more than friends?

I’d been playing album demos to Sam as I was writing them, which gave him a bit of an idea of where I was at. I wrote “Chasin’,” just after I got back from the writing trip in 2015 and, “Look After Me,” at the start of 2016 just after I was really sick. Sam showed me endless love and really got me through that time.

There were other demos that didn’t end up making the album, with lyrics like, “What if I died tomorrow and I never told you that you’re the one I was living for.” In retrospect, I was sending a pretty clear message, even though I wouldn’t speak about it. We finally had the conversation at the end of our North American tour in 2016.

We were in Vancouver and it happened to be their national holiday. We partied pretty hard that day, and later in the night Sam said to me, “I don’t want this to ruin our friendship, but I’m in love with you.” I told him I felt the same way, and we both came out to our families and friends when we got back to Australia that week.

There’s a song on “BATS,” called “Crush,” which is about that night.

Just enjoying the happiness of engaged life, or busy planning the wedding?

We’ve pretty much got it all planned now. We just have to send out invites!

Can you describe to me what you felt when your country legalized gay marriage this past year?

I was so happy! It took a few days to really sink in. I’ve noticed more people smiling at us when we’re walking along holding hands and stuff like that. It’s nice to feel supported by the majority of the general public.

READ ALSO: Cydney Christine gives us 10 beauty tips for spring

How are you using your music as a voice for the LGBTQ community?

I suppose just by being ourselves and being open about our experiences – a lot of “BATS,” and the album I’m working on currently, is inspired by queer love and learning self-love. It took me a long time to be happy and proud of who I am and I want to inspire other people to live their best life and be who they wanna be.

You come from a religious background that does not accept your sexuality. What or who did you turn to for comfort in hard times growing up when you were struggling with finding yourself?

I didn’t really feel like I had anyone to turn to. It felt like the consequences of being my true self would be harder to deal with than living a lie. Those experiences shaped who I am, though, and we wouldn’t be doing what we’re doing now without going through that.

Now that you have been able to accept your sexuality and be free with it, do you have any advice for those who may still be struggling through this?

My advice would be to be to try surround yourself with people, art, writing, music – anything that makes you feel good and like you can be yourself. Come out when you’re ready and on your own terms.

What do you hope people feel when they listen to the personal story you are telling through your music? Are there any specific emotions you are trying to evoke?

I hope people to connect with it in their own way and I hope they feel seen listening to it.

Since coming out, you’ve said you feel limitless now, in both your music and your videos. What does that look like in comparison to videos before?

I was embarrassed about being gay for a long time and it was something I kind of wanted to distance myself from. Although, on reflection, a lot of our early videos were pretty camp (laughs). I’m proud of my queer identity now and I feel more comfortable following my creative vision without worrying as much about what people will think.

Growing up in an environment that tried to keep you from being yourself, was music always an outlet for you to express your true self?

Writing music helped me come to terms with what I was feeling. It was something I never felt like I could speak about, but I guess through writing music it just started spilling out and it started changing my life.

READ ALSO: 10 looks that prove bike shorts are the new it pants

You’ve said the quote “try to become the person you needed when you were younger” is something you are trying to do. Who is that person?

I wanna be someone who says it’s okay to be yourself. I wanna encourage people to love themselves as I learn to do the same. I wanna spread light in and from a community that has faced a lot of darkness.

What was your inspiration behind the “O Lord,” video?

That was the first video we made since coming out and we wanted the visuals to reflect that. I put together a mood board with a general vibe for makeup/outfits/different shots and sent it to our friend Joe Agius who directed it. He executed it so nicely and pulled together a really beautiful lighting scheme that brought it all together.

What has been the greatest struggle for you guys in managing yourselves?

It’s a lot of work but I wouldn’t describe that as a struggle. We just have to be on all the time, which can be tiring but it feels like it’s paying off.

Is managing yourselves something you are really passionate about or do you plan to get a manager in the future?

We’re really passionate about being in control of our career but if we met the right person and the vibe was right we’d be open to exploring it for sure!

You’ve just been on tour in the US, how does touring in the US differ from your Australian/European tours?

The biggest difference is probably all the driving. We spent about 120 hours in the van and drove over 8000 miles!

What has been your favorite stop on the tour so far?

Every show has had special moments, but Chicago sold out so that was a vibe! We just finished up two sold-out shows in London and now we’re in Amsterdam with a day off before our show so we’re feeling good!

What’s next for the band?

We’ve got a couple of festivals when we get home to Australia then we’re starting some mixing for album three. Sam and I get married in August, then we’re on tour with Vance Joy in September which is gonna be huge. Expect some new music somewhere in there too!

Where is the best place for our readers to keep up with everything Cub Sport?

Probably Twitter and Insta. I used to be a real Snapchat guy, but we’ve grown apart.

Favorite food to eat on tour?

Toast with avocado and vegan mac and cheese on the West Coast!

Snapchat or Instagram?

Instagram, these days. Sorry, Snapchat!

Favorite road trip sing-a-long?

Probably Ariana Grande’s, “No Tears Left To Cry” on this tour.

Favorite leisure activity?

Running and listening to music.

Best movie of all time?

“Burlesque.”

CHECK CUB SPORT OUT ON SPOTIFY HERE.

READ ALSO: Billie Eilish is galore’s newest cover girl

Photos by Jacqueline Kulla

Have you ever tried absolutely everything to grow your natural hair, but it just didn’t work? Maybe were stuck at shoulder length or just never fully reaching your potential? 

Well, stylist “Hairstyles by Mary,” not only educates her clients on how to grow their hair, but she also owns a haircare line that is pure magic. It all started when she helped a friend grow her hair back after she became sick.

Check out our interview with the stylist below to learn all about how she did it!

Wavy book custom color with any installation online

A post shared by $15 Late Fee (@hairstylesbymary) on Mar 27, 2018 at 11:25pm PDT

READ ALSO: This stylist had all of social media shooooooook with her wig 

What’s your background and how would you describe what you do? 
My name is Mary McClane. I’m a 24 year old beauty professional from Detroit. Above all the many things I’m involved in, I aspire to be that voice, resource, support, and advisor for the young black business owners who face some of the same hardships starting out that I’ve already experienced.

Tell us about your Hair Magic line. How did it start, what will your products do, and what’s featured in the line? 

Hair Magic actually started when I was only 16 and still in high school. I was making it with natural products for a friend who abruptly lost her hair due to an illness. After it worked for her, I just began to give it away to all my clients and friends.

When I graduated high school, my friend Asia suggested that I start selling it. At the time, I only had the Hair Magic Grease, Hair Magic Oil, and Hair Magic Leave Conditioner. I participated in an event and actually had over 300 people in line waiting to purchase my products. Unfortunately, I only had 50 products of each so I had to turn so many people away.

One person stepped out of line to say, “That Magic Hair Grease saved my hair.” She showed us her breast cancer scars and said how Hair Magic helped her hair grow back after undergoing Chemotherapy. I guess you can say that’s how the company was birthed.

What are some major issues with growing natural hair that majority of your clients have? What are 3 things they can do to get their hair to grow? 

Not just my clients, but a majority of women of color, have the trouble of retaining length. Naturally our curls, coils, and waves lack moisture, and it’s no secret that we are not too fond of scissors and “getting our ends trimmed.”

However, that’s the secret! Honestly, everyone’s hair will grow at least a half an inch a month. But, if your hair isn’t strong enough to retain the length, just as much that is coming in will be breaking off. So, ladies – just moisturize often, drinks lots of water, and commit to a trim at least every 6-9 weeks.

Ima give y’all a selfie once a week lol. Hi, I’m Mary…. what’s your name?

A post shared by $15 Late Fee (@hairstylesbymary) on Apr 24, 2018 at 8:23am PDT

READ ALSO: Hair Art By Dominque wants you to take care of your natural hair under your installs 

You also mentor young female entrepreneurs and provide the blueprints for becoming a successful business owner. Why did you decide to do so and what is one of the biggest obstacles you’ve noticed many new entrepreneurs have? 

Growing up in my neighborhood, I didn’t have the resources to be equipped in this business world. I want to use my platform to be that resource for those that need it. The biggest obstacle new entrepreneurs have is one we kind of create for ourselves.

Most of the time we become too caught up with comparing the success of others to determine your level of success. Be patient, work hard, and trust your process.

Tell us about a time where you struggled professionally. How did you overcome it? 

When I had my first online sale, my website was automated to “accept orders after sold out.” I never knew that option existed, nor did I ever think I’d sell all 1,500 jars that I had, along with an additional 11,000 more orders. It was crazy. Everything sold out and over sold in 8 minutes.

The site was so busy that it shut down. Soon after, PayPal held all of my funds in reserves. It took me 4 months to send out all those orders, and even after 4 months, I still had to refund over 1,000 orders, simply because the costs were killing me. That entire situation almost ruined my career, but I just kept pushing.

As the weather heats up, what are your favorite protective styles to rock when it’s too hot for your natural hair? 

It’s actually the perfect time to wear your natural locs during this summer season. As I mentioned above, women of color naturally lack the needed vitamins and minerals to maintain moisturized hair. Our hair needs that sunlight and moisture, and the sun helps provide you with the nutrients your body needs to sustain a complete hair growth cycle.

Hair loss is a Vitamin D deficiency. You can gain that back with help from the sun. You should actually wear protective styles during the colder months of the year. Cold weather causes brittleness and shedding, which both lead to breakage and damage. So, it’s best to protect your hair best you can during the winter season.

What can your supporters expect from you in the near future? 

The Hair Magic store has opened, and I’m currently just focused on expansion all 2018. I’ll certainly continue to be proactive in the business community and work persistently to change the stereotypical young black persons into a business image.

Are you the type of girl who loves to dye her hair multiple colors at a time? Do you liiiiiveeee for hair extensions? 

Even though the outcome of these actions may be fire, it’s important to get the proper hair care treatments to prevent dyeing (and more) from completely ruining your hair.

We sat down with licensed cosmetologist and owner of Amora Luxe Beauty Salon, Shayna Simoné, to learn about steaming and Keratin hair treatments, how to care for color treated hair, and everything in between.

Check out the exclusive interview below!

READ ALSO: The truth about where hair extensions come from and if you’re getting your money’s worth 

What’s your background and how would you describe what you do?

I graduated from Aveda Institute and became a licensed cosmetologist in 2014. I was always passionate about doing hair, wearing hair, and researching the latest hairstyles. I would do my close friend’s and family’s hair for free. I worked as a personal assistant in a hair salon while I was still in high school.

Although hair was my passion, I did not feel it was “good” enough for me to pursue a career doing it. My experience with salons and hair stylists lead me to believe the business was unprofessional. It wasn’t until I had my daughter and received the horrible news that she was diagnosed with cancer, that God was able to shift my view of everything!

The corporate world did not care that I needed time off to care for my daughter. It was then that I knew I had pursue my passion. Life is too short and full of uncertainties. I own and operate and professional hair salon and luxury hair company. I am committed to helping my audience of professional women care for and strengthen their hair despite busy schedules and limited time.

I was once a consumer and a client. I understand the needs of my clients from a professional standpoint. I work hard to accommodate the needs of my clients. I know what experience I would want as a professional woman and make it my goal to provide this.

What is steaming and why is this treatment beneficial?

The hydrating steam treatment is beneficial because it hydrates dry hair. It also helps to promote blood flow and stimulates hair growth. The steam lifts the hair cuticle which allows the conditioning treatment to penetrate deeper into the hair shaft.

Is there a difference between the amount of heat used in a blow out vs. a silk press? What are the key differences with these techniques?

For my services, I offer a hydration silk-out which requires less heat than a pressing comb. The steam treatment makes the hair more manageable, and then we proceed with our blow out service which straighten the hair with heat and tension. We then proceed with the silk-out with our ionic flat iron that seals in the moisture.

Courtesy of Walmart.com

READ ALSO: Why celebrities’ hair extensions look so much better than everyone else’s 

Explain your signature “Keratin Smooth Out” treatment. What is it and what are some of its benefits?

The Keratin Smooth Out treatment is a solution that I blow dry and flat iron into the hair. This reduces the frizz and maintains the silk-out longer. It also seals any broken bonds in the hair and promotes hair growth. This treatment lasts 12 weeks.

In addition to natural hair, your beauty bar specializes in color treated hair and extensions. What are some major keys people with color treated hair and extensions should know to prevent hair breakage and damage?

People have to maintain a regular maintenance program by getting protein treatments and trims every 6-8 weeks. Clients should get a bond sealer immediately after a color service. Clients with color should also use products with penetrating oils such as argon and grape seed.

Clients who wear extensions should avoid keeping extensions in longer than 9 weeks. I also recommend getting a protein treatment and trim before getting extensions installed.

All of my clients with extensions come in for maintenance every 3 weeks. This includes a wash and hydrating steam treatment to moisturize the braids under the install. All of my clients who follow my recommendations experience hair thickening and growth.

I met Arben and Kuj about a year and a half ago, at their residence – known by them as, “The Flamingo,” inspired by Miami Vice.

We drank their liquor of choice, Jameson, and they kept dropping the phrase, “nothing crazy,” at the end of every sentence. We cracked jokes all night long, and even to this day I laugh the hardest with them.

I finally asked the Brooklyn natives what brought them to Los Angeles. The kidding around stopped, and the seriousness took play, as they told me about their clothing line, BOND.

Arben dropped out of NYU and Kuj dropped out of New York School Of Visual Arts (SVA) to both move out here with barely a dime to their name. They viewed their apartment, signed the lease, and moved in all in the same day – they didn’t know what a line sheet was and they certainly didn’t know what their first move was going to be.

Nearly two years later, their brand sells in ten stores worldwide, including FourTwoFour on Fairfax. FourTwoFour is one of the most notable streetwear stores in West Hollywood, Los Angeles.

After hearing their story and seeing the dedication they have to their brand, Arben and Kuj became two of my biggest influences. The pair’s journey is an inspiration for all of the underdogs.

I talked with the boys at their residence – over their famous pasta, nonetheless – before following them around Delilah (a swanky dinner & drinks spot in LA) for their favorite night, Jazz Night.

Check out our interview and exclusive Jazz Night photoshoot with the duo below.

READ ALSO: The Converse x MadeMe NYC collaboration wants to showcase that girls can be sneakerheads, too

For those of our readers that don’t know, how did BOND become your reality?

Arben and Kuj both take a deep breath.

Arben: Wow, alright. Take it easy, Emma. I need a cigarette to answer that one.

Kuj: Pass me one, too! How did BOND become our reality? Alright, you want the long story or the short one?

Arben: I’ll give you the medium version. So, BOND started when I was at NYU and sick of taking classes. I told my professor and she said, “What do you want to do?” I told her, “I either want to drop out, or do something I really want to do.”

She told me I had to submit her a proposal for a project by the next day, and I told her I wanted to start a clothing brand. I wanted to make a cut and sew t-shirt. She then said, “Ok, how does that relate to what your studying in film, photography, and media?”

We were studying Marcuse’s Theory of Consumerism at the time. I had the idea to take a photo of the theory and put it on a t-shirt as a silhouette of a woman who has a Fiji water dripping out of her mouth.

I told her I was going to make a high end t-shirt and sell it at a high price point and I’m going to market it though new media. I had three months to do it. Next day, I got it approved and had to make a documentary on the whole process. At that time, we had no clue what we were doing.

Kuj was in high school I was working for Kayne West. It was at the very beginning of Yeezy and thats what sort of gave me the inspiration to do it. So, Kuj and I hit the garment district everyday. Finally, I found a manufacturer, but she tried to charge us some crazy amount of money – $30 to cut and sew a T-shirt.

Even though I didn’t know much then, I knew that was way to much money. We left, and as we were taking the elevator down, it just stopped on the 4th floor. The doors opened and boom, I saw a sign that said “Pattern Maker.” This guy pops out of nowhere and is like “What are you guys doing here?” His name is William The Pattern Maker.

Kuj: He’s this crazy, old dude. He was 70.

Arben: Yeah, and he told us, “You need a good pattern maker, then you come to me.” He took us in and taught us the entire process. That was our main man.

We finally perfected how to make the garment. It took a lot of work and three months to make one t-shirt. That’s what the process was like for us at first.  We learned everything ourselves and we do everything ourselves. We never had a production team.

Kuj: We didn’t go to school for it.

Arben: We learned from the streets. We both dropped out of school and moved to LA to make it happen. We couldn’t really make it work in NYC, because the factories just aren’t there anymore. The garment district is dying.

We moved to LA and were trying to figure out our way when we walked into FourTwoFour on FairFax. Kuj was wearing one of our plaid jackets, and Guillermo Andrade, head of design and co-founder of the store, came up to Kuj and asked, “Who makes this jacket?” We told him that we did.

Guillermo looks at us and says, “Send me a line sheet.” We had no clue what a line sheet was (laughs). So, we go home kind of freaking out. We looked up what a line sheet was and then we cooked it up. We sent it over and Guillermo was like, “Alright, lets run it.” Our clothes have been carried in FourTwoFour ever since.

Kuj: Well, it wasn’t that it was difficult. It was just time consuming. We did a lot of plotting before we attacked. The hardest part was planning the role out.

Arben: It was also about learning and not moving too quickly. If we would have dropped a 16 piece collection three years ago, we wouldn’t have been ready for it.

Kuj: We would have been fucked. We wouldn’t even be here right now.

Arben: This is the long run for us, we want to be doing this for a long time. We don’t want to just be in and out. A teacher once told me, “Arb, you’re either gonna crash and burn or you’re gonna fly. Go too quickly and you’ll crash and burn. But, if you take your time, you’ll fly.”

When was the moment that you felt your career really started taking off?

Arben: I feel like it’s just a process for us. It’s not about our career taking off, it’s about people fucking with what we do. Every piece that we make tells a story. Thats the most important part for us. Telling a story through art, and making sure people understand what we are saying.

The fact that people fuck with what we are doing, means a lot. The fact that a store carries us, and that people in Japan fuck with us is awesome.

Kuj: We just keep on rolling with it. We don’t really realize until we look back a couple months later, and we’re like, “Oh shit, that really happened.” You know what I’m saying? Last year we had one store, and now we’re carried in ten stores across the world.

You’re originally from Brooklyn. Does the NYC fashion culture influence your work at all?

Kuj: Of course, we take pieces from everywhere.

Arben: It’s not just New York fashion, it’s just fashion in general. We don’t look at fashion trends for inspiration. It’s about looking at the past and at our history.

Arben: The energy, the look, and the silhouette all come from our past and shit that we have experienced. But, New York gave us the foundation for being fresh. That’s a necessary thing in New York. Growing up in NYC, you had to be fresh.

Kuj: Going to school, you had to be fresh. It was a big thing for us. We wouldn’t go to school unless we looked right.

What has been your favorite piece that you have created from your collection?

Kuj: My favorite piece is the Iggy Pop one. It’s a picture of Iggy Pop standing on the crowd – he’s crowd surfing. It says “Like A Brick Wall On Fire” around the graphic. Those words came from a text I received from my ex girlfriend right when we broke up.

She said to me “You’re like a brick wall on fire,”  and I was like, that sounds crazy. That’s fresh. So, I took that very personal message and I put it on the t-shirt.

Arben: My favorite piece is the rent reminder t-shirt. Since  it’s close to the first of the month, there’s a flyer in the building that says, “rent reminder”. The back of the t-shirt has the eviction notice that we got from our first apartment in LA, and the front says “rent reminder.”

That just tells you the story of us and what we have gone through to create this brand. It’s what we still go through, you know every day is still a struggle. It’s not easy to do what we do, we care so much. We literally left everything behind. We left our family, we left everything we knew in New York.

Both of our favorite pieces are the most personal, and is shows that we’re honest. We’re not trying to hide anything were keeping it real. You get us. This is us.

Photography by Cassidy Galvan

Interview by Emma MacKenzie

Creative Direction by Cassidy Rose Reagan and Emma MacKenzie

Arben and Kuj are wearing all BOND

Mary Mouser recently starred in the YouTube Red series, “Cobra Kai,” which is the official sequel series to the 80s hit movie, “The Karate Kid.” 

Her character, Samantha LaRusso, is a fighting badass, and Mary says she identifies with that in herself. Both her and her character have experienced bullying, and have overcome it in some amazing ways.

“Cobra Kai” was just picked up for a second season, so you know they’re doing something right! The show has been a huge hit, and we’re excited to see Mary’s character grow even more.

We sat down with the actress to talk about the show, superpowers, and bullying. Check out the interview and photoshoot below!

READ ALSO: Here’s how to style these New Balance sneakers for your next workout or night out

You’re starring in the YouTube Red series, “Cobra Kai,” which is a sequel to the 1980s hit film, “The Karate Kid.” What are some similarities to the movie, and what are the differences?

It spins the original story and tells the “villian’s” side. It humanizes Johnny and shows how someone can become a “classic bully.”

Can you tell us about your character?

Samantha LaRusso is Daniel LaRusso’s (the original “Karate Kid”) daughter. She’s tough and very smart, but she’s caught up in trying to find where she fits in the world. The battle between who she is and who she thinks she wants to be is raging inside of her.

At the end of the day, she just wants to fit in. She wants to be cool and fit in, but she’s battling with the part of her that knows better than to succumb to what others want you to be.

How are you similar to her, if at all?

I like to think I share her fight. She’s got a lot of fight in her and doesn’t let herself be taken advantage of. We’ve both also struggled with bullies (for me, in the past, but for her, presently) and how to find where to belong in school and with friends.

What other projects do you have coming up?

We just got word that we got picked up for a second season, so I’m gearing up for that! I’ll also be in an episode of ROOM 104!

READ ALSO: The Converse x MadeMe NYC collaboration wants to showcase that girls can be sneakerheads, too

Who’s your favorite character in the original film, and why?

Miyogi, by far. Daniel was the kid fans would root for, but he could have ended up like Johnny if he didn’t have the guidance from Miyogi.

If you had one superpower, what would it be?

Teleportation.

What’s your favorite beauty item for the summer?

Sunscreen! I burn easily.

What’s the item of clothing you can’t travel without?

Leggings.

READ ALSO: Huda Beauty is bringing back their Rose Gold palette, but new and improved

Photos by Crystina Bond

Styled by Mallie Koczon

I grew up in San Diego, so I basically wanted to look exactly like a fresh-out-of-the-ocean Aquamarine (the mermaid from the classic 2000s film, “Aquamarine,” duh) every summer. 

The summer beauty goal, for me and for most of my peers, has always been to look as though we spent all day laying out and dipping into the salty ocean water, with sand in every crevasse and a ripped surfer babe on one arm.

So, if you want to resemble like a disheveled, walking (that’s new) mermaid until the end of August, I have created a list of must-haves to achieve your look. This list pretty much is the guideline for what to use if you want to become mermaid certified ASAP. But, not in the glittery, pink way – in the crinkled, salty hair and dewey skin way.

1. A good highlight

Because you want to look just like a mermaid shell bra, but on your face. Even better, get an iridescent highlight, like this one from Urban Decay. This way, when you swim out to the buoy, we can see you from the shore.

2. Bronzer

I mean, I can’t stress this step enough. A bomb bronzer will help you look 3 shades more tan than you actually are, which is the ultimate summer goal. Fake it til you make it, cuz we all know how hard and time consuming it is to get an actual tan.

Did anyone else really want to date him and is now confused why? He looks like the surfer guy from your hometown who never left and gives swimming lessons at the rec center. Smh.

3. Self-tanner

A self-tanner is really necessary, especially if you’re going to follow step 2 and use a bronzer. You want your body skin tone to match your face skin tone, otherwise you’re going to look off.

Let’s be honest, if your neck doesn’t match your face, everyone will notice and point it out. That’s not going to be embarrassing in front of your summer crush or anything.

4. Crimper

This Bed Head mini, portable crimper is sure to make your hair look wavy as hell. It’s not super healthy for your hair to constantly be drenched in chlorine or in the ocean water, so this crimper is a great alternative.

I always feel like that mermaid in “Aquamarine,” when I use it – just without that heinous bright blue clip in (although, I definitely wore these in the early 2000s shamelessly). Also, crimping is super cute if you do it right. Stunt on your hometown mean girls at the local beach bar with this hair lewk (you were always more original than them, anyway).

READ ALSO: This is how you can retain length and shine after damaging your hair

5. Sea salt spray

Any sea salt spray is clutch, but I prefer this one from LUSH. This bottle of magic will help you look as if you shampooed with the ocean water and conditioned with seaweed. Sexy af.

This LUSH spray will definitely give you that certain crunch that you hope to achieve fresh out the ocean waves – but, you don’t actually have to even go near the beach. Plus, it smells wonderful. If you enjoy the smell of ocean water, this will have your hair smelling fire all summer long.

6. Some sparkle

The Fenty Body Lava has been a huge hit for a reason – it basically makes you look like a mermaid drenched in ocean water, gold, and glitter. Body Lava will give you that specific glow and sparkle that maybe only actual sea creatures have.

Also, for that extra summery vibe, you’ll be just as shiny as a dolphin.

READ ALSO: Urban Decay’s Naked Heat Palette is perfect for some fiery summer beats

7. OG Banana Boat

We all used Banana Boat religiously in the 90s. The brand basically sponsored every beach-rat’s tan. Whether you were a real tanner or a fake tanner, you used this stuff – maybe a little too much. It’s time to bring this cult fave back.

After all, it’s a cult fave for a reason. You’re going to sizzle like bacon in the sun with this oil on, and it will definitely help you to achieve an even tan all over. Please – don’t forget to turn over!

8. A really, really good setting spray

The summer is fabulous, but it also poses plenty of obstacles for your makeup look. The beach? The heat? Water balloon fights? Tons of frozen liquor mixtures? Random, sloppy hook-ups with your childhood crush, because those spontaneous fireworks tricked you into thinking it was the mood?

There’s a lot going on during the months of June to August. You’re going to want your makeup withstand your summer fling throwing you in the pool and an entire hometown 4th of July BBQ in the insane heat where all of your exes show up. This setting spray from Urban Decay will have you covered on all fronts.

READ ALSO: The new Urban Decay Beached collection is more versatile than you’d think

9. An aloe face mask

Any face mask is going to be super soothing after all of the nonsense you’re putting your skin through (heat, dry weather, chlorine, and more). But, an aloe face mask will be particularly amazing after a long day of reading books you didn’t read all year in the sun.

Save your skin now, and have fun later! Best part? These bad boys usually only take about 10 minutes to do. You can get a variety of these masks at places like Sephora and Amazon. Stock up!

10. Coconut oil. All the way.

You saw this one coming.

If you want to feel like a walking frozen piña colada, get a giant jar of coconut oil at your local Trader Joe’s. This stuff is made of magic and will be your go-to beauty item all summer.

Coconut oil will help set that tan and keep your skin looking even. It can also help soothe sunburns, freshen up your hair, and can aid damaged and cracked skin. Slather this stuff everywhere.

Yes, everywhere. And don’t forget – this summer, don’t go unnoticed.

The music industry is one that deals in many dichotomies: while music continues to be a platform of self-expression and empowerment for many female artists, it also seemingly perpetuates a lot of the sexist and misogynistic rhetoric contributing to gender inequality. 

A huge part of why this is so is undoubtedly the fact that music, like most industries, is a field that continues to be largely male-dominated. The only way to aid this problem is to change the industry from the bottom up – this is why it’s so refreshing to see women running shit behind the scenes.

Enter Melissa Woods and Brontë Jane of Third Side Music, an independently owned publishing and copyright administration company based out of Montreal and LA.

The company reps names you’ve likely heard before, including but not limited to Flying Lotus, BADBADNOTGOOD, and ODESZA (we’re using a lot of caps lock).

Woods and Jane run the company’s Creative Services department, and have worked incredibly hard to get to where they are today. We talked to the two women about their respective career journeys, and what it means to them to be driving forces in the music industry.

Brontë Jane

I feel like we’ve been sleeping on the art of face paint.

I mean, as makeup gets increasingly graphic, creative, and artistic, does it not tread the line between makeup and literally painting on one’s face?

At a certain point, graphic makeup just becomes educated, intentional face paint: and the result is absolutely beautiful.

Further, I love the fact that the face paint you’d traditionally wait in line for at Disney World has infiltrated the realm of normalcy and social acceptability— at least on Instagram.

READ ALSO: This beauty line will help your natural hair grow, regardless of hair type

This Instagrammer, for instance, has gained immense popularity for her magical face-painting creations:

a funky lil Look inspired by the art of @a.creature ! scrolled thru their insta pg & just put together a whooole bunch of lil details frum a bunch of their work ! they’ve been 1 of my fave artists since like freshman yr of hs so this Look has been a looong-time comin ! also say hi 2 my floofy brows .｡*ﾟ+.*.｡ﾟ+..｡*ﾟ+ lashes are @rouge.and.rogue in Cosmic Kitten • mixed @wetnwildbeauty Liquid Catsuit in The Shade is Teal & @elfcosmetics Liquid Matte Lipstick in Electric Fushcia for the purple shade • @strobecosmetics Creepy Cute Palette on my face for pink & green • @moiracosmetics Matte Liquid Lip in Royal on my lips & for red linework • @nyxcosmetics Epic Ink Liner for lettering • @getfrecked for faux freckles

A post shared by june･｡ (@visiblejune) on Jun 2, 2018 at 11:32am PDT

trash gross sum more pics of the colorful scrabble Look i did a few weeks ago ! the colors in this 1 make my lil heart vry happy !!! the words in these pics look more like rash / gross but u get the idea right ??! .｡*ﾟ+.*.｡ﾟ+..｡*ﾟ used @karity 21 Matte Palette & @strobecosmetics Creepy Cute Palette on my eyes n face • @nyxcosmetics Epic Ink Liner for lettering & outlining • lashes are @rouge.and.rogue in Miss Fury • @wetnwildbeauty Liquid Catsuit in The Shade is Teal on my lips

A post shared by june･｡ (@visiblejune) on May 4, 2018 at 11:30am PDT

another carebear inspired Look ! this time a lil tribute 2 best friend bear !!! also a cuuute lil twist 2 a Look by @jade.spice ! pls appreciate all the colors on my face thxu ! ! .｡*ﾟ+.*.｡ﾟ+..｡*ﾟ used @karity 21 Matte Palette & @strobecosmetics Creepy Cute Palette on my eyes & face • lashes are @rouge.and.rogue in Cosmic Kitten • @nyxcosmetics Epic Ink Liner for linework • @katvondbeauty Everlasting Liquid Lip in A-Go-Go on my lips

A post shared by june･｡ (@visiblejune) on May 26, 2018 at 11:31am PDT

Incredible, no?

I mean doing neutral makeup well is hard enough, but this is straight up artistic ability and skill. The rainbow look is my personal favorite (in part because she emulated my favorite care bear).

And the creativity doesn’t stop here. Creations like these are more common that you’d initially think:

READ ALSO: This is how you can retain length and shine after damaging your hair

dot dot dot products used: • @sugarpill flamepoint eyeshadow • @nyxcosmetics_uk vivid brights liners in blossom, halo and petal • @katvondbeauty eyebrow pomade in daffodil and tattoo liner • @pinkygoatlashes in sabrina • OCC liptar in clockwork #makeup #motd #mue #cutcrease #wingedliner #sugarpillcosmetics #sugarpill #jeffreestarcosmetics #moprhe #nyx #katvondcosmetics #kvd #nyxcosmetics #falselashes #yellow #yellowhair #yelloweyebrows

A post shared by cat (@scaredy.cat) on Jun 6, 2018 at 12:23pm PDT

This makeup Instagrammer is also known for her epic face-painting. In one of her more recent looks, she works with polka dots and bright colors and to transform her face into a literal canvas.

Like, I’m sure this would look amazing on canvas, but it looks ten times cooler on her face. PS, don’t sleep on that hair-makeup-eyebrow coordination.

A COLLECTION OF COLORFUL LOOKS If any of y’all have been following me since the beginning you’ll will probably remember a lot of these looks. I’ll probably doing a second part of these looks bundled up another day bc I had too many to pick from. It’s nice to look back & see progress

A post shared by (@rumdmur) on May 9, 2018 at 6:35pm PDT

Another superstar in the art of stylish face-painting is Instagrammer @rumdmur, who’s compiled some of her best creations above. All of these looks start to make you realize that one’s limitations are just as boundless when dealing with the art of makeup as they are when dealing with painting itself. That fact is daunting, but also super liberating.

The flame eyes are a personal favorite of mine. (It also just dawned on me that maybe there should be a flame-eye emoji. Someone write that down).

#happypridemonth I’ve been wanting to recreate this look I did in 2016 & what better time than #pridemonth !! Swipe to see how much I’ve drastically changed n improved!!!! #sugarpill love plus, suburbia, flamepoint, buttercupcake, Kim chi, velocity, acidberry, poison plum, dollipop & 2 am pressed eyeshadows #bleachlondon i saw red liquid lipstick #limecrime wet cherry lipgloss in maraschino cherry #anastasiabeverlyhills #abh dipbrow in ash brown + #thebrowgal eyebrow gel #mac #maccosmetics dust off eyeshadow for highlighter #purcosmetics 4-in-1 foundation stick #overtonecolor extreme silver daily conditioner (ITS A SILVER GIRLS DREAM) #pride

A post shared by Samantha Snook (@sn0ok) on Jun 5, 2018 at 9:30am PDT

This pride month look by Samantha Snook is also a personal favorite. Like right, if you could draw hearts on your cheeks why would you opt not to? It just kind of seems like a wasted opportunity. These colors also work so beautifully together.

HARD TIMES insp by @paramore Foundation is @itcosmetics CC+ cream Eyebrows are @katvondbeauty lemmy dipbrow + @colourpopcosmetics brow boss gel Eyeshadow is @strobecosmetics creep it real from the creepy cute palette Liner is @nyxcosmetics black liquid liner Lashes are @rouge.and.rogue slayer Blush is @sugarpill buttercupcake Highlight is @urbandecaycosmetics sin from the afterglow palette Lipstick is @fentybeauty saw C + @urbandecaycosmetics gloss in goldmine on top

A post shared by R I N (@gothfruits) on Jun 1, 2018 at 5:06pm PDT

@Gothfruits on Instagram is also a must-follow if you’re into the art of face-painting. This look is my favorite of hers because of the shapes and the color coordination with her hair. And it trips me up because her makeup is still flawless. Like, you have to be good at makeup and good at art itself to master this look.

kinda hate this kinda love it but i’m posting it for the gays bC ITS PRIDE MONTH BITCH! no brows is a look but maybe just not on me – – – @sugarpill poison plum, velocity, midori, acid berry, butter cupcake, flame point, & love+ 301 lashes @katvondbeauty metal crush highlighter palette @anastasiabeverlyhills midnight liquid lipstick @bhcosmetics 10 color blush palette

A post shared by hailey (@groovygaygal) on Jun 6, 2018 at 12:58pm PDT

Another pride month classic. I want to take this photo and hang it up in the Whitney.

Even if you don’t consider yourself adventurous when it comes to makeup, face painting is something that seems like it’d be objectively fun to try, even if it’s from the comfort of your own home.

I hope we get to the point where face painting is so normalized that it’s regarded as another form of makeup. I want to be walking down the street or on the subway and see someone with a beautiful face full o’ paint (and that person could be you)!

NA-KD is killing it lately, collabing with the coolest people in the business – including us (Galore), and now, model Sahara Ray.

You’re welcome.

No, but seriously, this collection release is a huge deal. These clothes were made specifically for the daring and sexy Sahara girl, by the unique and on-trend clothing brand, NA-KD.

READ ALSO: Galore x NA-KD collab launch: You’re going to be rocking these looks every weekend

It doesn’t get any better than this, y’all. Get out your wallets and start shopping before this collection sells out.

I personally will be wearing these white pants out every single weekend. I don’t care if anyone notices I’m an outfit repeater.

Shop the collection HERE, and tag Sahara and NA-KD in your kickass outfit pics!

READ ALSO: 10 ways to look like that mermaid from “Aquamarine,” minus the bright blue hair clips (sorry, Aqua)

The music industry is one that deals in many dichotomies: while music continues to be a platform of self-expression and empowerment for many female artists, it also seemingly perpetuates a lot of the sexist and misogynistic rhetoric contributing to gender inequality.

READ ALSO: This girl wrote a book for young women struggling with borderline personality disorder 

A huge part of why this is so is undoubtedly the fact that music, like most industries, is a field that continues to be largely male-dominated. The only way to aid this problem is to change the industry from the bottom up – this is why it’s so refreshing to see women running shit behind the scenes.

Enter Melissa Woods and Brontë Jane of Third Side Music, an independently owned publishing and copyright administration company based out of Montreal and LA.

The company reps names you’ve likely heard before, including but not limited to Sofi Tukker, BADBADNOTGOOD, and Flying Lotus (we’re using a lot of caps lock).

Woods and Jane run the company’s Creative Services department, and have worked incredibly hard to get to where they are today. We talked to the two women about their respective career journeys, and what it means to them to be driving forces in the music industry.

Brontë Jane

So, what does each of you do at Third Side?

Melissa Woods: I’m the Head of Creative Services at Third Side Music. I mainly focus on signing new bands and providing hands on services to our artists that range from new copyright creation, scoring and custom work for film, TV, trailers, advertising, and beyond.

Brontë Jane: And I work alongside Melissa in the Creative Services department as the A&R Director, which ultimately means that I spend the majority of my time scouting and bringing in new artists while also working closely with our existing roster in various creative capacities.

How’d you guys get into A&R? 

MW: I worked at a third party sync licensing company called ZYNC where each employee was encouraged to submit their ideas for A&R. I got to bring in artists like Lizzo, Marian Hill and BANKS.

BJ: Amongst other things, I have a background in music journalism, which was (in it’s own way) an incredible introduction to the skill of sifting through music and understanding who I gravitated towards and why. I started at Third Side as an intern in the Licensing Department and made it known that I wanted to eventually do A&R full-time.

Since then I’ve had my hand in bringing in acts like Sofi Tukker, Blonde Redhead, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Lost Under Heaven, and more.

Melissa Woods

Music journalism? That’s awesome. Did either of you face challenges along the way?

MW: A&R is a tricky career path, because it all begins as a pure love of an artist and their music. Then the competition kicks in and there can be a dance in order to win over that artist. There are massive victories and beautiful partnerships but you expect to be heartbroken at times.  Ultimately, it’s listening to your intuitions and taking a leap of faith by supporting those artists you feel have the most talent and best intentions.

BJ: A&R can sometimes feel like “dating” because when you’re passionate, invested, and genuinely excited by the idea of a partnership with a prospective artist, there’s always a chance they’ll sign elsewhere. My advice would be to really understand the artist’s narrative/trajectory and to visualize both you and your company’s worth.

READ ALSO: Galore x NA-KD collab launch: You’re going to be rocking these looks every weekend

Haha, I get that. What might you say is the coolest part of your job? 

MW: The coolest part of my job is being able to see a new band grow into the professional musicians they’ve always wanted to be. There’s a band we work with called Sofi Tukker who are not only incredible human beings but are also talented, hard working, positive, and have chosen a wonderful team of collaborators and management to support them. I get teary eyed seeing them perform on bigger and bigger stages as they are still the same genuine people they were when they first played CMJ.

BJ: Being able to work at a 100% independently owned company where we have full creative control. It’s amazing to be able to work with such a wide-ranging crop of unique artists alongside some of the most talented industry professionals out there. Third Side is seriously just a big family and I consider all of my co-workers to be my mentors. It’s an incredible honor.

What are the most important things you’ve learned as a woman working in the music industry?

MW: I have worked for and with many powerful females in the music industry and have learned so much from their strength, hard work and emotional honesty. My life partner is in the industry. He treats both men and women with equal respect and I find that inspiring. I also treat my mental and physical health as my number one priority. I applaud the women who are doing great work, and I support those who identify as feminists and treat everyone with equal respect.

BJ: No matter how you identify, the most important thing I have learned is that people will respect you if you demand respect. It sounds really simple (and cliché), but it’s true. I’ve struggled with the complex of not being taken seriously because I’m usually the youngest and least experienced (woman) in the room. It’s important to realize and recognize the value in your opinion and perspective, especially in the world of A&R where taste is paramount.

READ ALSO: Forever 21 just dropped a surprisingly dope collab with Coca-Cola

Any advice for other women who want to break through in the music industry as you have, or any male-dominated industry for that matter?

MW: Most companies I’ve worked for often hire star interns into full-time positions. Reach out to your dream companies before you graduate and that will give you an idea as to whether or not you could see yourself working there one day.

I’d also encourage you to find a mentor. Read up on the exceptional men and women in our field (as there are many). When you meet them at an event, introduce yourself and ask questions, perhaps you might find yourself at coffee with them. Join female peer groups like Women in Music and don’t quiet your voice when your gut tells you to speak out.

BJ: Do your research. Seek out the companies who work with artists you’re passionate about. Recognize and be prepared for a job that isn’t, and will never be, a traditional 9-5 ordeal. On top of that, one of my favorite people in music told me some of the (realest) advice ever: “ask a lot of questions, but don’t ask the ones you can find the answer to on Google.”

Click here for more info on Third Side Music and what they do.

Markus Klinko is revolutionizing the way we think about the 2000s – aside from our Juicy Couture jumpsuits and butterfly clips.

Having shot the most iconic of iconic artists, such as Beyonce, Britney Spears, David Bowie, and Mary J. Blige, Markus has been a huge part of the most badass waves of pop culture. 

Aka, it’s safe to say he’s a legend.

Markus will be opening up a 2000s themed exhibition of his photography. The exhibition will be open to the public at Mouche Gallery in Beverly Hills from June 15th to the 30th, so make sure you get over there.

Markus is also debuting the Becky G x Galore 2000s-inspired cover, along with all of his staple photographs from the luminous decade. We stan.

Check out our interview with Markus below, as we unravel the moments in his career that are cultivating his radiant future.

I actually started very late. I was a classical musician all my life – since I was a baby. I wanted to be a classical performer, because my father was a sympathy orchestra member. I became a classical concert harpist with an amazing career. I was signed to EMI classics, a very prestigious record company.

At the time, I was the only classical harpist in the world, with a major record contract and touring the world. One day, in the height of my career, I had a hand issue. It forced me to stop playing concerts and I decided on a whim in the summer of 1994, without any experience, I’m going to be a professional fashion photographer.

Of course, I had a lot of experience in front of the camera from when I was a musician and touring the world. I envied photographers, I thought they had such a great life different from mine. It was destiny. I was passionate about learning fast, I taught myself.

After getting an agent, I started shooting for underground magazines. After a couple of years, I got really lucky. I was helped by a lot of key people along the way.

READ ALSO: Billie Eilish is pop music’s 16-year-old lyrically profound sensation

Markus Klinko

Your new exhibit is based on the crossroads of pop culture, fashion, art, and technology – what was the process like creating this exhibit, and what can we expect when we visit?

This exhibit completely reemerges you into the 2000s. When I saw life sizes Beyoncé in the vibrant colors while signing them, I was transported back into the 2000s. Even for the shoot with Becky G for Galore – it was all 2000s styled, I felt 20 years younger because of it. The guest at the gallery will be reemerging into that mindset of the powerful images.

Who has been your favorite person to shoot and why?

I am lucky because I shoot so many interesting people. Always the last one I shoot is my favorite, because of the adrenaline rush. The list is wondrous. I have top favorites, of course – Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Mary J. Blige, Christina Aguilera, Kim Kardashian, Kanye, and Jay Z. They are all among my very favorites, that is why they are in this exhibit.

It’s not just because they were shot in the 2000s, it’s because I really love them and had a wonderful time working with them. David Bowie, of course. My previous exhibition, “David Bowie Unseen,” which went all over the world. Iman, his wife, a big time favorite. I have to tell you though, shooting Becky G was an incredible experience for us.

All the new shoots are Markus & Koala. There was an incredible energy about this shoot. Becky is so fresh. She’s the next Beyoncé. We are taking the transition phase of a young pop star to a major celebrity. We’re creating a new image that’s helping create who she is going to be. She represents the next generation.

Tell us about your Spotify project currently in NYC.

Spotify has collaborated with the Brooklyn Museum of Art in helping to promote the David Bowie exhibit called David Bowie Is, which I’m apart of. I was selected by Spotify to be one of the main contributors to this exhibit. I was chosen to be highlighted in a Spotify showcase, a subway takeover.

Spotify took over the Broadway subway station in Manhattan, completely plastered it with gigantic David Bowie installations. This was a fantastic experience seeing it coming alive. Something of this magnitude, before it was up and running, I was worried if something would go wrong.

I started seeing million Instagram tags under the David Bowie hashtag. Such a big highlight in my career. I thought, “This is as big as it gets, nothing can top that.” To be a part of this, I was very honored and humbled.

Heaven must be missing an angel @tommylee part of Klinko 2000s – Getting ready for our show with Markus Klinko

A post shared by Mouche Gallery (@mouchegallery) on Jun 9, 2018 at 3:08pm PDT

What was your experience like shooting David Bowie?

Out of this world. Not only is he obviously one of the most photogenic and incredible artists ever, but he is so direct and personable the way he collaborates with other artist and the people that contribute to his projects. I’m used to big celebrities using their team, “your people call my people.” Not so much with David Bowie. He is someone who picks up the phone and calls and gets very involved on a personal level.

Very little staff, assistance, PR, or marketing involved. It was a direct conversation. He took part of the post production sessions. Back in 2013, when I directed his music video “Valentine’s Day,” I hadn’t heard from him in a while. I got an email from his manager saying, “David wants to talk to you urgently.”

He asked me If I wanted to direct the music video. Every single time I did something with either David Bowie or Iman, it was always hands on and that’s extraordinary. That is an aspect that distinguishes them from other celebrities.

READ ALSO: Galore x NA-KD Collab Launch: You’re going to be rocking these looks every weekend

The most iconic moment in your career so far?

It’s really some of those. Capturing David Bowie for the GQ Man of the Year, or Beyoncé, or the Spotify installation. I think also next week stepping into the Mouche gallery, to be next to people who have shot the Marilyn Monroe’s and the Audrey Hepburn’s, with my 2000s work and Becky G for Galore is pretty iconic itself.

I’m really excited for this debut. At the gallery, I’ll be doing 6-7 hour workshops for Fujifilm in the gallery every weekend. I will be meeting people and talking to young photographers about techniques. Fujifilm has helped me in a lot ways the past 25 years, they’ve always been there.

The 2000 is premiering in Beverly Hills, but there are plans being made to take the 2000’s around the world. While this 2000s gallery is opening in Beverly Hills, my special feature, “David Bowie Retrospect,” is going up at Art Basel in Switzerland simultaneously.

What has been the craziest thing to happen on a shoot?

I would say working with wild animals has been pretty insane. I’ve worked with some of the most ferocious animals imaginable. I had 3 black panthers for Janet Jackson. I had wild wolves for David Bowie. I had baby lion cubs for Aubrey O’Day.

Some gorgeous animals have been at the shoots. When the black panthers came out, without any chains, I’d be lying to say I wasn’t scared. I don’t know how I was able to focus and shoot. They were so fast and they could’ve done anything they wanted. That’s as crazy as it gets.

Anything on your bucket list still to be accomplished?

Many things. People think that because you’ve shot many big names and iconic covers that you’ve done everything. There never is everything, there is always more. I haven’t shot Madonna yet – that’s definitely someone I’d like to shoot as soon as possible. There are other big ones and incredible new stars coming up. I hope Koala and I could shoot some of them for Galore.

Getting ready for our next exhibition with Markus Klinko! Lady Gaga shot by Klinko

A post shared by Mouche Gallery (@mouchegallery) on May 29, 2018 at 1:31pm PDT

Photography is ever-changing. In your opinion, what has stayed most constant?

As a business it has it’s ups and downs, but I would say to be able to capture an image that is able to move people. That talks to people, that makes people stop. That hasn’t changed. The need for images to stay relevant beyond their shelf life.

What I’m very proud of, like those images in the 2000s, they have aged very well. As a matter of fact, I would dare to say that many of them are much more relevant today than when I shot them. The time they came out they were great, but I feel like they are much more impactful today.

Any exciting upcoming shoots or projects?

Definitely. Very big covers and collaborations coming up. I’m working on a book deal as well as a very exciting TV documentary series.

Favorite part about the 90s/2000s?

In terms of producing photographs at that time, the opulence was appreciated. When clients were able and willing to pay for really big productions. Clients are very budget conscious now, which could be great too. It pushes your creative buttons.

As a person and a photographer, I certainly appreciated when budgets were large and photography was a production. Now things have shifted, but I produce even better photos now with my small team. My partner, Koala, is so creative and comes up with solutions, we make it happen on a shoe string.

What do you love most about being able to shoot some of the most iconic people in pop culture?

I love how as a fashion celebrity photographer, I get to meet some of the most successful and creative people from many disciplines. It’s not just actresses and pop stars. It’s designers, editors, and sometimes socialites who are very chartable. I’ve shot for many charity campaigns such as Keep a Child Alive for AIDS. I’ve shot brands like Hello Kitty.

Such a wonderful collaboration with them shooting Lady Gaga. When we were in Japan, they welcomed Koala and I at the Hello Kitty Museum and showed us all the different collaborations. That is the most exciting treats when we get welcomed by these amazing artists and celebrities.

READ ALSO: Pride Month: The band, Cub Sport, fought for same sex marriage in Australia 

Do you prefer film, music, or books?

I wouldn’t want to have to choose. I’m fascinated and can get totally lost in all three of them. I love watching TV shows. I can’t stop watching. Books are dangerous for me, because once I start reading a book, I can’t put it away. I love them all.

When you’re not working, what is your favorite past time?

I love working out. I always work in one way or another. I’m always thinking of the next shoot or exhibit. Or who we want to work with next. Prince and Jacob are great examples; we brainstorm over ideas of who we can work with next or collab with.

I could be at the gym or in the shower, but I’m thinking about work. My work isn’t really my work. It’s my passion. I don’t really call it work. There is no way to distinguish the two. Its 24/7.

With your busy lifestyle, when are you most alive?

I come alive the most during photoshoots. I am so high on adrenaline, and so excited for the image in front of me. I’m so excited to capture the image. It’s a split-second decision. That moment – that’s when I’m most alive.

Photos courtesy of Markus Klinko and Mouche Gallery

Famed fashion photographer, Markus Klinko, has worked with every celebrity you could ever dream of. 

From Beyoncé’s “Dangerously In Love,” album cover and Lady Gaga’s Hello Kitty-inspired shoot, to Mariah Carey and David Bowie, Markus has photographed almost all of the iconic 2000s shoots.

You can’t help but wonder how talented Markus must be to work with such a large number of A-list celebrities. We will give you a hint – he really is that talented.

READ ALSO: Famed photographer, Markus Klinko, is bringing the 2000s back

Galore and Markus Klinko are revealing today our newest cover girls – a first time exclusive cover experience that reimagines Markus’ truly iconic 2000s photoshoots.

We wanted to give a nod to the glamorous 2000s that we miss so much, and the gorgeous divas that Markus has had the pleasure to work with. Check out our exclusive interview with Markus here, and take a look at our iconic new cover girls!

Markus’ amazing work is going to be apart of the Mouche Gallery exhibition, honoring his photoshoots and remembering the 2000s. Definitely don’t forget to head over to the gallery and check out his stuff if you’re in Los Angeles! The exhibition will be open from June 15th to the 30th.

All photos by Markus Klinko

Cover Art Direction by Lisa Yoo

You may know our newest cover girl, Becky G, from her hit song, “Shower,” but she is so much more than that. 

Currently working on two separate albums in English and in Spanish, the singer is extremely multi-faceted and should absolutely be acknowledged as such. Aside from new music, Becky just wrapped a new movie, “AXL,” starred in the newest “Power Rangers,” and is very outspoken about America’s unjust immigration policies.

We sit down with Becky to discuss her new albums, her drink of choice, the song she loves to sing in the shower, and more. Check out the exclusive interview and photoshoot below! We are obsessed.

READ ALSO: EXCLUSIVE: Sahara x NA-KD’s newest collection drop is here!

You are working on albums in Spanish and English, with brand new singles in both languages. Why is it important to you to create music in both languages, and what does it mean to you to release music in Spanish?

Everyone knows I started singing in English. When I think of the word cross over, I wouldn’t necessarily say I’m doing the crossover, but I am the crossover. The truth is, my entire life I’ve lived one foot in one world and one foot in the other.

Now, I can authentically be myself in both worlds. It is really exciting because I always say I’m the 200% – 100% proud to be Latina and 100% proud to be American.

You are starring in the film, “AXL.” Tell us a little bit about the movie and your character, Sara. Do you relate to her at all, and if so, how?

I’m really excited for my fans to meet my character, Sarah. She has a little sass. I got to be a bit more creative and hands on with this character. The film itself is action sci-fi, a little bit like “Transformers,” meets the story of “ET.” It’s a movie for everyone, so I really hope everyone gets a chance to see it!

Your newest single with Natti Natasha, “Sin Pijama” has already been certified Platinum. What did it feel like having such a hardcore comeback to the music world?

Comeback – that word. It’s funny because everyone kept saying, “It’s not a comeback, you never left.” To me, it was a comeback. To me, it was the revival of my career. I was in a very dark place at the end of my English music. I didn’t really connect to my music and I felt like I wasn’t making music that was really true to who I am. The messages felt like songs that anyone could sing, because they were songs written for other artists that somehow became mine.

I feel like I found myself in my Spanish music. I found my confidence, my sexy, and my power in my voice. I found me again. I found the woman who wanted to conquer the music industry. I lost myself in my middle teenage years. The 9-year-old Becky is living that dream of hers at 21 years old.

I really know who I am now as an artist. It means a lot to me the success that I have encountered in my Spanish career, since it isn’t my first language. The fact that I can do it in a language that connects me back to my roots – it couldn’t have worked out any better. I wouldn’t change it for anything.

What was the best part of filming the music video (which, honestly, hit the Internet by storm)?

I like breaking the Internet. It’s so fun. The message for the video is to empower woman. “Sin Pijama” was the sexiest and funniest experience ever. I felt ready and excited to embark on this next journey of the identity of Becky. Introducing this more fun sexy side of who I am now as a young woman.

READ ALSO: FANTASY ISSUE COVER GIRLS: Famous Klinko 2000s photoshoots reimagined

What was the inspiration behind the song?

The inspiration behind the song really came out of nothing. I was in the studio with my friends and it was a minute and a half demo. I had the idea to have a few more artists, and that was the whole dream for the song. I’m so glad that it was not the end. I feel as though there are not enough woman in music, let alone woman in Latin music.

For us to be the very few woman in reggaeton music, rapping on a song that is completely reggaeton, with not one man in sight of the music video, and not one man featured on the song, was amazing. For it be as successful as it is, I think it is definitely a moment in music and music history. It’s really awesome to be a part of it.

You’re only 21, and you released your hit song, “Shower,” when you were only a teenager – which, no doubt, put you on pop music’s map! How did you (and do you) manage your success and your work at such a young age?

The Becky G that experienced the success of songs like “Shower,” for instance, learned a lot of lessons. I think the biggest lesson I learned was that I do not want to be a one-hit wonder. I do not want to be an artist who doesn’t have an identity. I was very fortunate that “Shower,” was my song, but it almost felt like that song was bigger than me.

I say that because, I remember one time I was in a coffee shop and “Shower” was playing – years after the success of the song. Girls were singing the song right across from me and I started singing along as a joke. I’m looking at them and they are looking at me but they weren’t connecting that it was my song. I was the girl who sang the song. I was not Becky G the artist.

It’s a good lesson to learn early on in your career. Now, moving forward, I work so hard to make sure that my songs have identity. Not just any artist can sing them, but it’s a Becky song. It’s Becky G, the girl who sings songs like “Mayores” or “Sola.” That, to me, has been the greatest lesson of all.

What was it like working on the set of “Empire,” and combining your two passions of acting and singing?

“Empire” was definitely a big stepping stone in my career. Working with so many accomplished actors on a show that brings acting and singing together was amazing.

It was a nice space to try something new on the acting side, but still be in a comfortable place because it had to do with music. It definitely lit the acting bug inside of me, because I ended up doing “Power Rangers.”

Do you prefer acting or singing and why?

I can’t choose. I love acting and singing for different reasons. I love singing, because music has always been there for me – the one thing, besides my family, that has never failed me. It’s always been something that I’m passionate about.

Acting inspires a different part of my brain. It allows me to put myself in other people’s shoes. It allows me to use my imagination and be creative in a different way than I am with music.

What was it like filming an action film like “Power Rangers,” and how was that different from the set of something like “Empire?”

Going into filming such a huge studio film, who gets to say they are a superhero every day – it was the coolest thing ever. I learned so many things while filming. The greatest thing that come out from it, wasn’t just learning as an actress, but also making lifelong friends.

What was your favorite part about playing your character, Trini, in “Power Rangers?”

Playing the character of Trini was an honor. Being the yellow Power Ranger was so iconic. I got to play her in a way we have never seen her before, too, as a young Latina girl in high school!

How do you relate to Trini?

How she questions herself, her sexuality, and who she is. It was very honest. I related to Trini in many ways, because I questioned a lot of things about myself growing up. What was I capable of doing? Am I strong enough to do these things? Trini, in the end, wasn’t aware of her own strengths, even though she is a very strong girl.

You have been very vocal about speaking out against Trump and his undocumented immigrant policies. Why do you think it’s important to speak out about these things on a platform such as yours?

As an artist, you are given a platform that comes with a responsibility to inspire people and to use your voice for the greater good. This is something that is affecting me firsthand. I am a granddaughter of grandparents who immigrated from a different country – Mexico.

It is a huge part of my story and something I am very proud of. Without it, I wouldn’t be where I am today or have the opportunities that I have. I feel the responsibility to speak up about those issues. At the end of the day, there are two things that will forever divide people – religion and politics. It makes people feel uncomfortable – especially questioning when it is crossing the line and when is it too far.

I feel like there is one thing that can never be wrong and that is heart. A lot of people come to the United States of America to live a better life, and they come with their heart in their hands and nothing else. They do this only to hopefully one day be able to provide a better roof over their families’ heads, and to have better jobs, opportunities, or education. I think that’s very beautiful and we should shine a positive light on it instead of focusing on the negative.

READ ALSO: Famed photographer, Markus Klinko, is bringing the 2000s back

If at all, have you dealt with discrimination in the music or tv/film industries due to being a woman of color? How did you overcome those instances, if so?

Being a young Latina in this industry, I definitely have had a couple situations. I think when you see a young woman come into an office room, yeah, it’s going to be hard for people to take you seriously. You have people who have more on their resume or experience, and you can quickly feel like your ideas or voice are belittled.

There are countless times I’ve felt that way, but I also I think that I fortunately grew up in a household where my parents didn’t raise me with those double standards. My brothers, sister, and I were all raised equally. There was nothing I couldn’t do because I was a girl and it is going to stay that way.

What can we expect music wise on your upcoming albums?

Musically speaking, I’m currently working on two completely different sides of me. The Spanish side, which is definitely reggaeton-inspired with pop influence. There is the English side of me, that is working on music that is just as urban, but a little bit more R&B inspired. I have a side of myself that my fans have yet to be introduced to, that is a little bit reminiscent of the OG Becky from the block.

Favorite beauty product that you cannot live without?

A smile. A smile is priceless, and I think woman very quickly forget that we are fine without makeup. We are fine without being all dolled up, and it is nice to just be yourself.

Drink of choice now that you’re 21?

I’m Mexican, so my drink of choice will forever be tequila. I love tequila, I’ve always loved tequila and I can say that now that I’m 21.

Go-to breakfast?

I love avocado with crushed red pepper, a little bit of lime or lemon, and eggs.

Song you loveeee to sing in the shower (lol)?

“Waterfalls,” by TLC. I’ve always loved that song since I was a little girl.

Last Friday, creative director of Moschino, Jeremy Scott, hosted the debut of his 2019 Resort Collection inside of a circus tent. 

The show came complete with lions, clowns, mimes, and more. Jeremy Scott’s role as the ringleader of his own fashion circus complimented his reputation for insisting that fashion should not be taken too seriously.

Vibrant jacquards, beads, and sequins added the classic Moschino feel to familiar yet playful pieces and imagery of the show, cultivating a childlike sense of nostalgic whimsy that only something like a circus can adequately memorialize.

Attendees and talent included Kris Jenner, Gwen Stefani, Emma Roberts, Aubry Plaza, Ash Diamond, Stella Maxwell, Duckie, Alessandra Ambrosio, Violet Chachki, and many, many more. Because, duh, it’s a Moschino show.

Peep our exclusive photos from the event below!

Photos by Jacqueline Kulla

If there’s anything we’ve learned from the Cheetah Girls, it’s that regardless of where we are in the fashion cycle, animal print always come out on top.

I always tend to affiliate any animal print with the colder months, likely because I associate animals with fur and fur with keeping warm (perhaps that part was implied, but now you really get my point).

However, some recent trips to the IG explore page have suggested otherwise. Animal print, and particularly snakeskin, is back in a really big way that works for both your Spring and Summer wardrobes. Let me show you what I mean:

READ ALSO: 10 ways to look like that mermaid from “Aquamarine,” minus the bright blue hair clips (sorry, Aqua)

A post shared by Alejandra Bielsa (@leja.bk) on Mar 7, 2018 at 1:59pm PST

#Snakeskingate i.e just me seeing snake skin a lot all began with this image, and ever since I feel as though I’ve been seeing it everywhere (in my dreams, even).

This red snakeskin variation is very aggressive and unapologetic and I couldn’t love it more. I kind of thought this was a one-off thing though, until the more recent receipts began rolling in:

IM SO LUCKY I COULD CRY BUT I RATHER STUNT AND PRAISE THE MOST HIGH @fashionnovacurve

A post shared by Minahil (@bae.doe) on Jun 6, 2018 at 5:17pm PDT

IG sensation Minahil known in the context of Instagram as @bae.doe wore this all-snakeskin printed set from Fashion Nova on her Instagram, immediately diminishing the relevance of all non-snakeskin clothing pieces.

I’m not going to lie, if anyone can find a way to make snake skin — a characteristically intense print — wearable, it’s Fashion Nova.

Exploring Montmartre always put me in a good mood even if the weather is shit Definitely one of my fav area in Paris | : @clarabyx

A post shared by Emmanuelle Koffi (@emmanuellek_) on Jun 6, 2018 at 10:10am PDT

On the same day, blogger Emmanuelle Koffi sported her snakeskin more subtly, pictured in the form of this top shown above.

I don’t know guys – is it just me? Am I extrapolating? As far as Nancy Drew goes I’d say I identify more with her weird unhelpful friend Bess than I do with Nancy herself, but I know a pattern emerging when I see one. Nevertheless.

READ ALSO: “Cobra Kai” star, Mary Mouser, says she shares the same fighting spirit as her character

@madisunsky @riiottt wearing the new

A post shared by MATTE BRAND (@mattebrand) on Jun 7, 2018 at 11:06am PDT

Then the following day, Matte Brand dropped this dope photo of some of their newest sets in, you guessed it: snake print. I wonder when we’ll be at the point where snakeskin is seen as a neutral pattern like a floral or a gingham, unless we’re already there and no one bothered to tell me?

summer visits at home in sacramento picking fruit from my tree, baking in the sun, listening to badu, pure happiness

A post shared by Tiana Parker (@tianaparkr) on Jun 7, 2018 at 7:10pm PDT

Aaand moving right along to tiger print.

In my opinion, tiger print is criminally underrated (is it because tigers are going extinct and it’s like still too soon or…? reply snap). Model Tiana Parker kills it all of the time always just in general, but I nearly fell to the floor when she posted this video rocking this tiger print ‘kini (am I aloud to say “‘kini” even if I’m from the Northeast lol) (wait is anyone allowed to say ‘kini unironically lol).

@hrk__f_ • stace platforms•

A post shared by UNIF (@unif) on May 30, 2018 at 10:29am PDT

I feel as though animal print is never not a thing with regard to UNIF: that being said, these shoes of theirs (the Stace platforms) have become an instant classic. And the best part is that although the material is fuzzy and textured, the shoe’s silhouette is super Summer friendly.

There we have it: the jury is in on warm-weather animal prints, so keep that in mind when purchasing your next open-toed shoe or ‘kini (I’m so, so sorry. I’ll stop).

If you haven’t scrolled through Official Ariel’s IG yet, you’re missing out.

Yes, he’s the IRL Princess Ariel.

Not only is he a makeup pro, but he transforms himself into the most whimsical versions of Disney princesses – his most famous look being Princess Ariel. IG’s cosplay community has never seen anything like this!

We caught up with this modern day royalty about where he started and where he’s going. Check out our exclusive interview with this princess below!

Just a little gaylien celebrating pride month with all my children #pride #pridemonth

A post shared by Richard Arthur (@theofficialariel) on Jun 16, 2017 at 11:19am PDT

READ ALSO: Drag diaries: Jodie Harsh at Drag Con LA

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Richard Arthur, but I am also known as The Official Ariel on Instagram. I am a full-time makeup artist and part-time Disney princess based in Los Angeles.

When I’m not spending my time helping women find their inner mermaid via makeup, I am found in my living room transforming myself into various characters and creatures from art and film!

How old were you when you started experimenting with makeup?

I started experimenting with makeup when I was about 12 years old. It was mostly with Mary Kay samples that I stole from my mom, or the cheapest things I could find at Walgreens.

What are your fave products right now?

Anything holographic! I am obsessed with having a dewy, mermaid finish.

READ ALSO: Exclusive video: Milk Makeup has your effortless spring routine covered

Hot blooded, all American girl Wig: @starlitehair Lips: @nyxcosmetics Velvet Matte in “effervescent” Foundation: @besamecosmetics in Medium Beige Eyeshadow: “Savage” from @urbandecaycosmetics Electric Pallette Brows: (really weird I’m sorry) @limecrimemakeup Velvetine liquid lipstick in “Saddle” Lashes: @mondastudio #304

A post shared by Richard Arthur (@theofficialariel) on Aug 13, 2017 at 11:58am PDT

How has drag helped you figure yourself out?

It really helped me embrace my androgynous side. I have been bullied for being “too feminine” all my life, so it was nice having an outlet that lets me explore that side of me.

Now, I can use it against those who tried to make me feel like less of a human being because of it.

Can you remember a hard time that drag had pulled you out of?

I can’t recall a specific time. But, it really did shape who I am and made me a happier person once I started experimenting with makeup. I couldn’t imagine how my life would be without it.

Who are some other people that are doing this that you look up to?

I have always looked up to and admired was Miss Jay Alexander – runway diva and coach extraordinaire (best known for her work on “America’s Next Top Model”).

I would watch ANTM every day when I got home from school, and I remember being in awe of Miss Jay. The way he blurred the lines of what is masculine and feminine was really inspiring to me.

Can you tell us how your views on masculinity and femininity have changed since you started doing this?

I believe gender is completely fluid. I find myself dressing both masculine and feminine on a daily basis because it makes me feel much more comfortable than dressing completely “masculine,” or vice versa.

Aside from fashion, I am still struggling to figure out what I identify with in terms of gender, so, stay tuned. Drag really opened a whole new world of what gender means to me.

“He who dares not grasp the thorns should never crave the rose” -Anne Bronie Lip: “Lost” @colourpopcosmetics Crown: @caleighallen

A post shared by Richard Arthur (@theofficialariel) on Apr 20, 2017 at 11:52am PDT

READ ALSO: 10 ways to look like that mermaid from “Aquamarine,” minus the bright blue hair clips (sorry, Aqua)

What are your thoughts on negative feedback?

Negative feedback has never personally hurt me, although I sympathize with people who feel the need to be negative. When people leave hurtful comments, they are often the one who is hurting.

Where do you see this taking you?

I honestly have no idea! But, I am excited to find out.

With regards to colored hair, it seems as though somehow, somewhere along the way, we’ve missed moderate.

But, we’re not complaining. Dying one’s hair no longer means going from auburn-copper-rose gold brown to auburn-copper-rose gold brown with highlights. No, gone are the days of unapologetic dye jobs.

Instead, we’re opting for, well, the opposite. Think fluorescent greens, blues, pinks and reds.

Kylie debuted her hot pink highlighter hair at this year’s Coachella, but there’s a lot more where that came from, see exhibits A, B, C et al.:

READ ALSO: PRIDE MONTH: The band, Cub Sport, fought for same sex marriage in Australia

1. Mountain Dew who?

Yall really went ham on this pic! What more do u wna see from me creative wise

A post shared by Yella Boo (@itsyellabambi) on Jun 6, 2018 at 3:49pm PDT

This was so good. Instagrammer Yella Boo debuted this insanely green hair in the one and only way one should when debuting this hair color: alongside an equally green-if-not-greener soft drink. Very nicely done. Side note, curly hair looks so bomb dyed.

2. “Only highlight the important stuff.”

Acid rain

A post shared by Simi & Haze (@simihaze) on Apr 13, 2018 at 5:24pm PDT

Simi (or Haze, not entirely sure of which half of the duo this is) rocked a subtler variation of the very same color: this is a great way to try out the look sans the burden of full commitment.

3. Okay, now do the same but in red.

No cannes do

A post shared by Simi & Haze (@simihaze) on May 14, 2018 at 3:09am PDT

About a month later, she rocked the red counterpart of the very same style. Again, a cool life hack for if you want to keep dying and switching your hair up without bleaching and killing all of it.

Plus, it looks super cool and is convenient for when you want to switch from unintiontionally-omg-did-I-accidentally-wear-green-today outfits to holy-shit-I-hadn’t-even-realized-I’d-worn-red-today outfits.

READ ALSO: This expert knows how to find the best skincare products for summer

4. Pull up with a lemon

not your average girl

A post shared by renaissance woman (@andreavalle) on Jun 6, 2018 at 12:10pm PDT

Lime green seems to be the choice color among our jury: I mean if you’re going full highlighter, you may as well go big or go home. The resulting juxtaposition of this contemporary color with this mod hair style is extremely satisfying and dope, to say the least.

5. Introducing: the minty blue highlighter you never knew you needed

I wanna ruin our friendship, we should be lovers instead can yall guess the song this was inspired by ?!?!? Foundation is @maybelline fit me dewy + smooth Brows were done using @toofaced wicked lippie + @colourpopcosmetics brow boss gel Eyes were done using @urbandecaycosmetics electric palette Liner is @nyxcosmetics matte black liquid liner Inner corner is @tartecosmetics chrome pot in pot of gold Lashes are @a.l.i.e.n.c.o.s.m.e.t.i.c.s 626 Glitter is @bhcosmetics loose glitter in mermaid blue Highlight is @japonesque kumadori ombre highlighter Blush is @colourpopcosmetics X @mylifeaseva siren from the mermaid glow face duo Lip gloss is @urbandecaycosmetics bang Shirt is from @goodbyebread

A post shared by R I N (@gothfruits) on Mar 24, 2018 at 4:32pm PDT

This may not be a traditional highlighter color, but who do I need to get in contact with to change that? Sign my petition. I mean, somewhere along the line I’m sure they came out with a limited edition variety pack or something.

Either way, this is one of the prettiest colors ever, and I’d be very excited to wear it on my head. Who wouldn’t? No one rocks it quite like Rin of @Gothfruits though.

6. Keep it classic

pastel cow, stunning ! products used: • @jeffreestarcosmetics liquid lipsticks in breakfast at tiffanys, venus fly trap, blow pony, drug lord, prom night and doll parts • @sugarpill eyeshadows in kim chi and acidberry • @katvondbeauty eyebrow pomade in daffodil • @rouge.and.rogue slayer lashes #makeup #motd #mue #cutcrease #wingedliner #sugarpillcosmetics #jeffreestarcosmetics #moprhe #nyx #nyxcosmetics #falselashes #yellow #yellowhair #yelloweyebrows

A post shared by cat (@scaredy.cat) on Jun 3, 2018 at 12:07pm PDT

Ah yes, nothing like the real thing baby. The original highlighter yellow, showcased effortlessly above by Cat of @scaredy.cat on Instagram. The incredibly coordinated makeup job isn’t lost on us either, believe me.

Also, as far as highlighter hair goes, I’d argue that the bright yellow is the most versatile of the colors, and that surprisingly, it actually goes with pretty much everything.

7. PIIINK

IM SO LUCKY I COULD CRY BUT I RATHER STUNT AND PRAISE THE MOST HIGH @fashionnovacurve

A post shared by Minahil (@bae.doe) on Jun 6, 2018 at 5:17pm PDT

Move over Coachella Kylie! This is the perfect pink highlighter hair shade and I don’t say that lightly. Minahil of @bae.doe has truly just now confirmed pink as the new blonde. I’ll alert the presses.

8. ….PIIINK

Didn’t I give you all that I’ve got to

A post shared by chinqpink (@chinqpink) on Apr 22, 2018 at 7:54pm PDT

Chinq Pink has built her entire look around her hair— and who could blame her, it’s perfect. Her fiery pink locks have become a part of her signature (and, at least colloquially speaking, her name) and she’s perfected the art of pink hair like no other.

9. And more pink, ideally.

A post shared by @ cozykillz on May 5, 2018 at 4:15pm PDT

Damn. Remind me to throw away all of my highlighters except for the pink one, because I think this variation has to be my favorite. It’s such a universally flattering color, surprising as it may be.

I also feel like at some point within the past year we’ve all come to the unspoken realization that pink is now basically a neutral hair color, and that ginger hair is being discontinued (kidding about that last part, I’ll bet at least three people believed me though).

To any and everyone inveigled to take on this trend: you have my full blessing.