#MUSE

Mimi Elashiry

Name: Ismeen Marlane Ashraf Elashiry                         
Zodiac: Libra
Location: Part time Byron, Australia // Part time Los Angeles.
Agencies: KULT Australia // NEXT Models

Self-made and killing it Mimi Elashiry is much more than just a 2-in-1 talent; she is a walking daydream living her life to the fullest. Working out those multi-tasking skills as well as her body this pocket rocket is known to be a model, dancer, blogger, fashion designer, ambassador, MTV reporter, social media sensation and an inspiration to all (plus a hell of a lot more).

Once upon a time in the land of mysteries, Elashiry was set back by her height but like her passion for the ocean she is now making waves, bigger than ever. Whether it’s shooting worldwide or giggling beside her beloved friends and family; life is fast paced for this golden beauty and doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. It’s scarily easy to get an insight into the magic that occurs both in front of and behind the scenes thanks to her immense Instagram following; living the life of many girls dreams and being a Libra she is seriously kicking goals in the most stylish and healthiest way possible. Known for their kind and gentle mannerisms and admiration for beauty, harmony and peace this empowering beauty is one to adore.

Mimi’s Instagram is an artwork in itself like stepping inside her vivid world, featuring: mesmerising ballet snaps, fluffy stuff, her significant other Adin Taylor, sneak peaks and shoots, clean-living/eating, the ocean, crystals, natural products, her veggie patch, yoga, cheeky snippets of her groovin', the word ‘meemo’ on repeat, the most magical brands and adventures far and wide all wrapped up with the most whimsical captions! What I find immensely engaging is that her account isn’t just a platform to post generic model shots and promote for the sake of it; it’s “a space to thrive”. Staying true to herself along with her integrity this rare beauty provides her audience with an ever uplifting, positive, alluring and unique destination.

To add to the many talents of this creative soul Mimi is just as amazing behind the camera as in front of it! Creating a personal blog @35mimimeter to display her own photography which is all taken on an array of 35mm film cameras, “I wanted to be able to portray the depth and true beauty of moments captured in my everyday life on film. Because digital photos just don't tell a story anymore. On my blog you can expect to see photos from my many travels, any shoots that are shot on film and a more lifestyle approach.... I've included recipes, travel tips, my favourite music... Basically I want to delve deeper into all the things I am really about, from behind my lens.” – Elashiry, M.

If you thought there’s nothing she can’t do, then you’d probably be right. Embracing her inner designer Mimi launched her own exclusive swimwear range ‘CHEEKY SWIM’ in collaboration with Glue Store. Released back in 2015 this collection consists of 16 pieces that reflects her summer vibe and evolving style and what she thought was missing from the market; vintage and feminine infused separates and one-pieces.
View the collection in-store or online here.

                        Fun Facts:
Mimi has had the opportunity and experience to work alongside some of the greatest and most talented influential people in the fashion industry, including: sass & bide, It’s Now Cool, San Lorenzo Bikinis, Realisation Par, Dylan Kain, Neogarments, Dyspnea, babylikestopony, Kay Sukumar, Asos, teenVogue, HLSK, a & p, Off The Rails Mag, Solstice Intimates, Lenni the Label, Sir the Label, House of Cards, Harper’s BAZAAR (Australia), Alice McCall, Ellery, Zulu & Zephyr and that’s just to name a few.

This golden earth child also has a strong connection with crystals evident through an interview with Glue “I wear my crystals everywhere. I have developed such a strong connection with them. My good friend Alicia the founder of Aletheia and Phos cleanses all my crystals before I wear them. I love feeling their energy so close to my heart (I wore them in the Glue Store Spring campaign to give off good energy).”

‘Hippies In The City’ is a guide to natural urban remedies by Rita Balshaw. This book was a turning point for Elashiry; transforming her outlook and life habits becoming her go to bible and a daily part of her life this is a recommended read not only by Mimi but by myself too. “From the second I unwrapped the paper and smelt the dried lavender in the wrapping I knew I was in for something special. Rita's book is life changing and my words won't do it justice. As I turned the pages everything my mums partner had told me was reiterated in such a way that I would never even question it. from recipes, to tips and tricks, hippie advice, chakras, blood type diets, how to be Eco friendly, amazing places to eat around the world... Ugh.. I have to stop.”

Connect:
Website
Instagram

Words by Clair Wainwright // Quotes sourced here and here.
Images Source: harpersBAZAAR, Oliver Grand and Mimi’s Instagram/Website. 

Ramona Magazine for Girls

RAMONA MAG

@ramonaforgirls

If you’ve just tuned in electricvibes is a space and platform aiming to promote and support world-wide creatives, with no limits… yet not once did I think to feature Ramona Mag. Not when I stumbled across them on Instagram, not when I contributed a piece, and not when I became an intern. Sometimes great things are occurring right in front of you and you don’t even realise, but better late than never right?

I was fortunate enough to intern with Ramona Magazine for Girls, and luckily enough to continue on as a part of the team! The whole journey has left such a powerful and positive mark on my life; furthering my knowledge, skills and opening up new opportunities and experiences with the best bunch of humans.

In a past life they were titled ‘Tigress Magazine for Girls’, now going by the name of ‘Ramona Magazine for Girls’; this name change was a result of their ever-evolving and growing existence since 2014 as Freya Bennett and Sophie Pellegrini (Co-founders & Co-directors) further explain “Tigress to us has become like a person, like a friend, and like ourselves! We want to give Tigress her own personality and so have chosen a name we think fits perfectly with what we are about and where we hope to continue going.” It is magical to see how these two beauties have come together from different parts of the world, putting their heart and soul, blood, sweat, and tears into what goes on behind the scenes to bring to each and everyone of you the purely incredible contents that is Ramona Magazine for Girls. 

Ramona Mag combines collaboration, creativity, empowerment, inspiration, and feminism across the world in the form of an online magazine, with a yearly print volume. Speaking of which… *drum roll please* because my oh my VOLUME TWO is available now! Offering both a digital and print version, I would highly recommend purchasing yourself a copy and hell why not get a few extra to pass on to friends whilst you’re at it! This is more than just a magazine; it is a living and breathing entity containing the most uplifting, eye-opening, and meaningful content you will ever lay your eyes upon.

Step inside a vivid world bursting from the creative minds of the figures behind the scene (Sophie and Freya), along with the hundreds of immensely empowering and talented contributors and interns that continuously keep Ramona thriving. Covering a wide variety of topics and issues; discussed, explored, and embraced by females of all ages worldwide. Want to know what makes Ramona even more unique? “It’s FOR you, BY you!... Consisting of creative work by individuals from all over the world, we aim to give you a magazine filled with great stories, art, advice, and information in the hopes of leaving you feeling empowered, accepted, and worthy,” states Sophie and Freya. Broken into nine categories, it’s almost like a go-to-guide filled with advice, interviews, collaborations, stories and features delving into numerous topics including: art, books & movies, health & body, life, love & sex, music, other stuff, Ramona collective, and your writing. Giving females from across the world a chance to share a part of them and receive a mass of support in return.

Trending on Ramona

Hi Slut, I'm Prude

Writing by Alyssa Bedford // Photograph by Mara Saiz

ARTIST FEATURE: Imogen Murray

Interview of Imogen Murray by Clair Wainwright

Forty Three Nights Ago There Was A Rapist In My Bed

Writing by Sophie Rose // Illustration by Lauren Cohen

Contribute: Ramona are always looking for submissions, sponsors and ads; if you or someone you know feel suited to the ethos then check the submission guidelines here! 
Support Ramona here!

Make sure to also follow Ramona and the incredible team over at:
Facebook
Pinterest
Twitter
Flickr

From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk

Who: Jean Paul Gauliter
What: 'From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk' Exhibition
Where: Paris
When: July 2015
Why: Why not! 

Paris is always a good idea and being on the other side of the globe I couldn’t think if anywhere more magical to escape and view a glimpse of the action and creation behind the scene of Gaultier’s fashion world. This iconic travel destination led my travelling partner and I to a vivid space; entering the life of Jean Paul Gaultier and providing us with an opportunity to explore some of the most intricate and intriguing displays of all time.   

This exhibition which took place in 2015 was organised by the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts in collaboration with Maison Jean Paul Gaultier located at the Grand Palais. Paris was the tenth stop displaying the contents inside the mind of Jean Paul Gaultier and the Grand Palais certainly isn’t an unfamiliar place for either of the two…being not only the location for this ingenious designer’s first fashion show back in October 1976 but also the first exhibition Grand Palais had ever devoted to a fashion designer!

Every element of the showcase was carefully thought out by numerous talent that joined forces to create an unknown world displaying unknown pieces. From the likes of Denis Marleau and Stephanie Jasmin (Montreal theatre company) who used innovative technology to animate the fifty custom-designed mannequins and Odile Gilbert who designed ten realistic hairstyles for them to various fashion photographers and artists who provided the Paris Show with exclusive access to previously unpublished prints.

This was a showcase like no other revolving around seven themes reflecting a timeline of Gaultier’s life, featuring items from his personal history including: childhood teddy bear, snapshots of the designer’s childhood and early muses to sketches, archives, stage costumes, film footage, fashion shows and concerts. And it doesn’t stop there – displaying over one hundred and seventy-five ensembles including a repurposed bustier from his debut collection, the iconic breast-baring jumpsuit Madonna wore in 1992 and costumes designed for the beloved Kylie Minogue, Dita Von Teese and numerous other performers; the astonishing haute couture pieces’ date from 1970 to 2013.Unfortunately, this international exhibition has now come to an end but what an imaginative way to explore and convey how his designs challenge society, gender and aesthetic trends. 

Zulu & Zephyr

Vision: ‘Made for the sun, the salt & the sea.’
Ultimate girl. Ultimate brand. Ultimate location. 

Zulu & Zephyr is uniquely Australian owned and operated existing as an independent boutique label; it is more than just a brand it is a lifestyle.

Each collection never fails to deliver, staying true to their vision and embracing morning swims the creativity from this sister due radiates off each piece.
They’ve truly got you covered all year round.

View the current collection: Ranger Spring 2016 here.

Website: Zulu & Zephyr
Instagram: @zuluandzephyr

Melbourne Spring Fashion Week

Spring time sees numerous things bloom including Melbourne Spring Fashion Week in its 22nd year.

From August 26 to September 2, MSFW didn’t hold back on the runway or backstage; launching their 2016 program at RMIT Design Hub and with Isabella Lucas as the face of this event, it wasn’t easy to look away. With 85% of content designed by local Melbourne talent Australia truly promotes both emerging and established designers, retailers, and brands highlighted throughout the 200 events and sessions including six runways.  

From ethereal gowns and dainty headpieces to strikingly structured garments and bold-lipped beauties; it was a magical chance to see the next big creators. Showcasing the work of over 50 designers, featuring: Aurelio Costarella, alice McCall, Bianca Spender, Camp Cove Swim, Carla Zampatti, CristahLea, Gorman, Gwendolynne, Jason Grech, Keepsake The Label, OneDay, Rachel Gilbert and Thurley.

“In 2015, MSFW’s partnership with Vogue Fashion’s Night Out netted local fashion vendors an economic benefit of $8 million” – Robert Doyle, Lord Mayer of Melbourne.
So to add to the excitement, your calendar and Melbourne’s economy, all pieces that were presented on the runways will be available for purchase in the city; no promises on availability.

And that’s a wrap!

Sneak peek behind the scenes.
Photographers: Kamilla Musland and Lucas Dawson Photography

Ellery's Shimmering Collection SS16

Australian Founder and Designer Kym Ellery has been one to watch since her major breakout onto the scene in 2007; bursting into the fashion industry with a now global go-to recognition.

Ellery isn’t holding back evident in the most current collection: Spring 2016 Ready-to-Wear. Drawing inspiration from the 1969 ‘Wrapped Coast’ by land artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude, the collection explores this project through experimental fabrics and textures to reflect the oceans movements.

From voluminous culottes featuring a peplum hemline and shimmering metallic materials with metal hoops to fluid separates and ruched sundresses with drawstrings, Ellery has got the unconventionally luxurious look covered. 

See the whole collection here. 
Photo Source: Monica Feudi // indigitalimages.com

Laura Wiederman

Name: Laura Wiederman
Zodiac: Gemini

VISION: A vivid world derived from the aesthetic of Laura herself; rough luxe, exists and strives to exceed expectation and satisfaction of its vastly growing audience through realistic and immediate access to the fashion realm. Joining the existing forces of print media and the internet, online media forms as you’ve never seen it before... (unless you’re already aware of The Vault, then kudos to you!)

The Vault Online is a one stop (and shop) destination bringing to you an exclusive insight into the world of fashion, beauty and lifestyle. Think of it like a naughty combo of your favourite gelato swirled into one creating the sweetest sensations and a longing for more. And more you shall receive as the site flourishes and thrives with countless intriguing, inspiring and insanely worthy contents covering topics from YOU’VE MOVED IN…NOW WHAT? to THE DETAILING ON JEANS EVERY 'IT' GIRL IS SPORTING and #MONDAYMUSE: INSIDE KENDALL JENNER'S BEAUTY REGIME. 

Behind The Scenes:
Laura Wiederman forms the figure behind the scenes and she is killing it. A business women and a creative, Laura is living the life of many girls dreams. Being a Gemini she is seriously kicking goals in the most stylish way possible.. Known for their expressive traits Laura is not one to hold back, illuminating a daring yet sophisticated edge this empowering beauty is one to admire. 

Flashback:
To the day I first met Laura… Being active on social media myself I was previously aware of The Vaults existence. Following the journey that was being undertaken and explored, I remember being informed by my College that the next scheduled fashion class would be held by Wiederman herself and to be honest that day couldn’t have come sooner. What a delight it was having the opportunity to be in the presence of such a great influencer, her radiance, admiration and thoughtfulness will always remain in my mind. Sharing stories, tips and advice Laura remained true to herself and is hands down one of the most genuine humans to exist. I admire her passion and drive and am ever grateful for guiding me in the right direction, believing in my vision and giving me the confidence to take action of my own goals.

I would just like to thank not only Laura but every single trainer that came through Orana’s doors, who took the time to teach, explain and inspire us all. Each lesson building up and contributing to where I stand today.

Life Tips:
Instead of remaining amongst the shadows take action and turn your passion into power; don’t be afraid. The beginning is one of the hardest and scariest times but take the plunge (as Laura once said to me) and put yourself out there, you will never know until you try!

Connect:
Make sure to subscribe but I must warn you, you will be showered in endless amounts of inspiration, joy, hidden gems and lifelong advice.
Website: The VAULT Online
Instagram: Personal: @laura_wiederman // Business @thevaultonline

Image Source: The Vault Online

Melbourne

“It only took my 20 years to fly domestically…”

I have travelled to the other side of the world more times than I’ve travelled in Australia... literally. It took my 20 years to travel to Melbourne but it was worth every part of the wait. Going in early 2016 with my partner in crime we gratefully got to stay with Dylan’s cousins in Prahran. Adventuring out as soon as we arrived to ‘The College Lawn Hotel’, a local spot and good place to have some much needed drinks, overall not a bad arvo in Melbs.

Morning after breakfast: ¿por qué no tenemos tanto.

One of the nights we did an almost pub crawl of Collingwood and Prahran exploring unknown areas. A highlight of the night would have been ‘Forgotten Worlds’ an arcade themed bar with a slight share house vibe. Slotted on Johnston Street, you can get lost in a childhood game but this time with a cold brew in hand. For the beer lovers out there the 70 something selection should satisfy your thirst. If you're after a good time then head on down. 

Musts: Chapel Street Bazaar and the National Gallery of Victoria.

Living up to its name, Chapel Street Bazaar was a rare and forever mesmerising find. Like walking back in time this place is not to be missed. If you’re like me and love dressing up then the collection of collectable items ranging from the funkiest cowboy boots, leather jackets, denim pieces, vintage tees, dresses and one pieces (the list is truly endless) then this is the dress-up box for you. You name it they’ve got it allocated to individual stalls each thriving with pre-loved goods from clothes, lamps, crystals, furniture, electronics, games, records, instruments, artworks and newspapers - it’s almost a lovechild of Patti Smith and Robert Mapplethorpe!  

Source: first three images credit to Vintage Melbourne. 

NGV: Andy Warhol x Ai WeiWei

Talk about good timing, this international exhibition featured two of the most iconic and inspiring artists who continually transform modern art and contemporary life. Being an interactive exhibit this was one sanctuary I could have explored for days. 

What you can also expect to find when wandering the streets of Melbourne. 

THINGS

@thingsmag

We live this thing called life and that’s just it, Things.
Our world is partly made up of unexpected happenings that bring us an unknown anticipation of joy and curiosity; the warm and fuzzy feeling that wraps one’s body, kind of like the sensation when eating Gelato Messina… I experienced a similar notion when searching the internet, a glorious but ridiculous entity allowing us to find hidden gems and providing us with a gateway into things like Things (intended).

Step inside a vivid world bursting from the creative minds of fifteen young but immensely empowering and talented individuals. Based in Boston these badass teens know how to paint the town rainbow with their quirky and informative insights into the style, art and culture of the current (and past) creative scene. Highlighting underrepresented artists from Boston and the East Coast these ladies plus one gentleman definitely hit the spot in my heart; making a stand by supporting and promoting local treasures.

There is so much going on behind the scenes from photoshoots to interviews and hunting down of topics to immerse all our senses in. Beware you may find yourselves gazing off into an unknown world in this online magazines intriguing, inspiring and insanely worthy contents. There are countless sensitive yet passionate articles to view from THE HISTORY OF THE GRAPHIC TEE and BILL CUNNINGHAM REMEMBERED to WHY YOU DON’T HAVE TO FOLLOW THE RULES WHEN IT COMES TO GROWING UP, ATTENDING SHOWS IN UNFAMILIAR PLACES and THE QUEER PUNK BAND YOU NEED IN YOUR LIFE. The voice of this internet girl gang definitely gives validation to existing and upcoming emerging artists in the style, art and culture world.

And on that note as the Virgo baby like myself - Isabella Rafky (things Staff Writer) once said “She is not the rainbow Mick Jagger was singing about, but she is striving to be”. 

MOODBOARD

Warning: overuse of the words ‘I am’.

I am constantly inspired by my surroundings.
I am blessed to live on the northern beaches and overlook Pittwater.
I am grateful for all the beautifully talented creatives and free spirits that live in this area.
I am always thrilled when I find hidden treasures; wall art and tucked away sanctuaries.
I am thankful to have inspiring imagery and content at my fingers tips.
I am me, you are you. 

I use my Instagram as a visual diary and moodboard to display a collection of raw beauty. Pinterest and Tumblr also knows how to win over my heart, providing me with the goods in a blink of an eye. Check out my sites below >>>