4th Annual Shortstack Charity Fashion Show

For many young ladies, the allure of being a model comes with the idea they will have a glamorous life of traveling the world, wearing designer clothing, meeting thousands of people and having your face plastered on billboards and magazines – sounds exciting, right? Most of the world has probably thought about this career choice at least once in their life, but for many, like 19 year old Shortstack Program Director Olivia Mignone, it becomes a passion. Unfortunately, Olivia learned years ago that there was a gritty truth behind this glamorous life and that her 5’ 1” limitation was going to exclude her from this industry. Thankfully, for many young girls who have followed in her footsteps, Olivia would not accept this hurdle and set out to change the standards.

“In order to model, there are strict rules and requirements to which everyone must oblige,” states Ms. Mignone. According to Ford Models – one of the top modeling agencies in the world – as a 14 to 15 year old female, you must be 5’7” to 6’0” tall; a 16 to 22 year old female must be 5’8” to 6’0” tall and a 15 to 35 year old male must 5’11” to 6’3” tall. Plus, for all of these ages and heights, you are contracted to maintaining a certain weight at all times. In fact, anything above a dress of 4 can be considered plus size to some. “It is no secret that the industry has been under fire in recent years for being unrealistic and unfair in sending this message,” explains Hal S. Eisenberg, Executive Director of Windows of Opportunity, an innovative youth empowerment agency that oversees and supports Olivia’s program. According to The Center for Disease Control and Prevention the average height and weight for a woman in the United States is about 5’3” and 165 pounds. “If this is the case,” explains Eisenberg, “what kind of image is the world-wide modeling industry sending to our society? Something needs to shift.”

To overcome the industry’s bias, send a message to the fashion world, and to empower young woman to love themselves for who they are, Olivia created Shortstack 4 years ago at the age of 15. Shortstack is a teen founded and driven modeling fashion program that provides young woman who do not meet the “normal” industry standards an opportunity to become involved in charitable fashion events, professional photo shoots, fashion design, and photography. Now, at the age of 19, Olivia is drawing attention to her message as she is about to step out on the runway at The Midtown Loft & Terrace on 5th Avenue in the heart of Manhattan, during the 4th Annual Shortstack Charity Fashion Show.

Olivia, and the 20 girls in her program that respectfully refer to each other as a sisterhood, are part of more than just a modeling and fashion program, but a place where they have come to learn about who they are, what they are about, and how to send a message in a positive, constructive way. “The fashion industry must change its standards”, states Tanya Rios, Assistant Program Director and life long friend of Olivia. “I have watched Olivia consistently promote healthy habits, better body image and create self-esteem and confidence in all of us.” Through workshops, rehearsals, charity events, photo shoots and fashion shows, the Shortstack models become the types of models our society should look up to. However, as amazing as a story this has been, Olivia feels this is not enough. “I challenge designers to take this same initiative; to allow all shapes and sizes walk their runways. It may not only save a lot of lives, but a lot of dreams, as well.” Ms. Mignone continues, “Come to our fashion show on June 18th at The Midtown Loft. Come see what the buzz is about. We challenge you to put myself and any of our Shortstack models in your show. You will be impressed by what you see. Help us send a message of inclusion for all. Which of you will be the first to stand tall with us?”
It is no doubt that Olivia’s message is getting out there as she has rallied supporters and sponsors of her upcoming show from the likes of Hot Topic, David’s Bridal, Banana Republic, VH1, Verizon, Long Island’s Rock Station WBAB, and popchips to name a few. Shortstack has created many opportunities for models such as meeting America Next Top Model’s contestants Kim Stolz, Bianca Golden and Claire Unabia, to appearing in local papers, The Daily News, Fox-5 Television, and being featured on the cover and in a 7 page spread of A&U Magazine. In addition, Shortstack annual awards a local “unsung hero” for their charity work and generosity. The award was founded in memory of Barbara Harmon, a first responder who lost her life due to the work she did at The World Trade Center in 2001. This year’s recipient is Rescue Ink, an organization formed to aid in battling animal abusers and neglect, and to assist existing animal-welfare agencies and shelters.

Shortstack’s Fashion Show is taking place on June 18th, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. and the $50 price of admission includes a rooftop cocktail hour with an amazing view of The Empire State Building, and an entertaining fashion show. Money raised is going to additional innovative empowerment programs at Windows of Opportunity in such areas as HIV Awareness, Eating Disorder prevention and Leadership Development.
WOO Inc

Read more...

Audition for Mr and Miss India Youth Eye 2010

Audition test for “Mr. and Miss India Youth Eye” organized by the Nirvana-Suvidha in Janipur. A total number of 17 aspirants participated in the audition test. Hitesh Badyal, President Nirvana Academy and Gourav Sharma were in the panel of judges for assessing the caliber of the participants.

The selected candidates will be taking part in the mega event which is scheduled to be held by the end of June at Delhi, a release said.

Hitesh A Ramp Choreographer told on the occasion that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir has lot of potential and they can compete in all the fields whether provide them right opportunities and national level platform. He expressed that Mr. and Miss youth eye India will provide opportunities and career to the participants in the field of advertisement and acting.

Participants selected for the final event at Delhi are Love Kumar, Gulab Singh Jamwal, Pankaj Negi, Vikram Singh, Vinayak Sharma, Devin Singh, Sidarth Sathoo, Vimal Kumar, Varun Kotwal, Vikas Puri, Vinay Daggar, Arjun Singh Patyal, Raman Verma, Ajay Nischal, Vishal Kumar, Akshay Gupta, Sahil Sambyal.
Nirvana Academy

Read more...

4th Annual Shortstack Charity Fashion Show

For many young ladies, the allure of being a model comes with the idea they will have a glamorous life of traveling the world, wearing designer clothing, meeting thousands of people and having your face plastered on billboards and magazines – sounds exciting, right? Most of the world has probably thought about this career choice at least once in their life, but for many, like 19 year old Shortstack Program Director Olivia Mignone, it becomes a passion. Unfortunately, Olivia learned years ago that there was a gritty truth behind this glamorous life and that her 5’ 1” limitation was going to exclude her from this industry. Thankfully, for many young girls who have followed in her footsteps, Olivia would not accept this hurdle and set out to change the standards.

“In order to model, there are strict rules and requirements to which everyone must oblige,” states Ms. Mignone. According to Ford Models – one of the top modeling agencies in the world – as a 14 to 15 year old female, you must be 5’7” to 6’0” tall; a 16 to 22 year old female must be 5’8” to 6’0” tall and a 15 to 35 year old male must 5’11” to 6’3” tall. Plus, for all of these ages and heights, you are contracted to maintaining a certain weight at all times. In fact, anything above a dress of 4 can be considered plus size to some. “It is no secret that the industry has been under fire in recent years for being unrealistic and unfair in sending this message,” explains Hal S. Eisenberg, Executive Director of Windows of Opportunity, an innovative youth empowerment agency that oversees and supports Olivia’s program. According to The Center for Disease Control and Prevention the average height and weight for a woman in the United States is about 5’3” and 165 pounds. “If this is the case,” explains Eisenberg, “what kind of image is the world-wide modeling industry sending to our society? Something needs to shift.”

To overcome the industry’s bias, send a message to the fashion world, and to empower young woman to love themselves for who they are, Olivia created Shortstack 4 years ago at the age of 15. Shortstack is a teen founded and driven modeling fashion program that provides young woman who do not meet the “normal” industry standards an opportunity to become involved in charitable fashion events, professional photo shoots, fashion design, and photography. Now, at the age of 19, Olivia is drawing attention to her message as she is about to step out on the runway at The Midtown Loft & Terrace on 5th Avenue in the heart of Manhattan, during the 4th Annual Shortstack Charity Fashion Show.

Olivia, and the 20 girls in her program that respectfully refer to each other as a sisterhood, are part of more than just a modeling and fashion program, but a place where they have come to learn about who they are, what they are about, and how to send a message in a positive, constructive way. “The fashion industry must change its standards”, states Tanya Rios, Assistant Program Director and life long friend of Olivia. “I have watched Olivia consistently promote healthy habits, better body image and create self-esteem and confidence in all of us.” Through workshops, rehearsals, charity events, photo shoots and fashion shows, the Shortstack models become the types of models our society should look up to. However, as amazing as a story this has been, Olivia feels this is not enough. “I challenge designers to take this same initiative; to allow all shapes and sizes walk their runways. It may not only save a lot of lives, but a lot of dreams, as well.” Ms. Mignone continues, “Come to our fashion show on June 18th at The Midtown Loft. Come see what the buzz is about. We challenge you to put myself and any of our Shortstack models in your show. You will be impressed by what you see. Help us send a message of inclusion for all. Which of you will be the first to stand tall with us?”
It is no doubt that Olivia’s message is getting out there as she has rallied supporters and sponsors of her upcoming show from the likes of Hot Topic, David’s Bridal, Banana Republic, VH1, Verizon, Long Island’s Rock Station WBAB, and popchips to name a few. Shortstack has created many opportunities for models such as meeting America Next Top Model’s contestants Kim Stolz, Bianca Golden and Claire Unabia, to appearing in local papers, The Daily News, Fox-5 Television, and being featured on the cover and in a 7 page spread of A&U Magazine. In addition, Shortstack annual awards a local “unsung hero” for their charity work and generosity. The award was founded in memory of Barbara Harmon, a first responder who lost her life due to the work she did at The World Trade Center in 2001. This year’s recipient is Rescue Ink, an organization formed to aid in battling animal abusers and neglect, and to assist existing animal-welfare agencies and shelters.

Shortstack’s Fashion Show is taking place on June 18th, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. and the $50 price of admission includes a rooftop cocktail hour with an amazing view of The Empire State Building, and an entertaining fashion show. Money raised is going to additional innovative empowerment programs at Windows of Opportunity in such areas as HIV Awareness, Eating Disorder prevention and Leadership Development.
WOO Inc

Read more...

Audition for Mr and Miss India Youth Eye 2010

Audition test for “Mr. and Miss India Youth Eye” organized by the Nirvana-Suvidha in Janipur. A total number of 17 aspirants participated in the audition test. Hitesh Badyal, President Nirvana Academy and Gourav Sharma were in the panel of judges for assessing the caliber of the participants.

The selected candidates will be taking part in the mega event which is scheduled to be held by the end of June at Delhi, a release said.

Hitesh A Ramp Choreographer told on the occasion that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir has lot of potential and they can compete in all the fields whether provide them right opportunities and national level platform. He expressed that Mr. and Miss youth eye India will provide opportunities and career to the participants in the field of advertisement and acting.

Participants selected for the final event at Delhi are Love Kumar, Gulab Singh Jamwal, Pankaj Negi, Vikram Singh, Vinayak Sharma, Devin Singh, Sidarth Sathoo, Vimal Kumar, Varun Kotwal, Vikas Puri, Vinay Daggar, Arjun Singh Patyal, Raman Verma, Ajay Nischal, Vishal Kumar, Akshay Gupta, Sahil Sambyal.
Nirvana Academy

Read more...

Foot Locker celebrates Father’s day

The days are getting longer, and with the increase of temperature you're noticing a decrease in Dad's energy. While you have picnics and beaches and barbecues on the brain, Dad is thinking hammocks, lounge chairs, and pool noodles...

Foot Locker is promoting a healthy, active lifestyle with products that re-energize from the ground up. The right athletic shoe will ensure comfort in Dad's activities, and can also motivate him to get moving.

The Zig, Reebok's new running shoe, coined "the energy drink for your feet," is a great way to energize a long, hot day. The foam sole decreases the amount of impact on Dad's legs, allowing a quicker recovery to sore muscles.

Every marathon season, running enthusiasts worldwide marvel at the speed and poise of the barefoot Kenyan athletes. Mimicking the freedom and flexibility of sole-to-pavement, the Nike Free Run+ is not only comfortable and lightweight, but looks great when running (or manning the grill).

Another brand synonymous with comfort and athleticism is Asics. The Gel Kayano16 is designed to endure the physical demand of an elite runner. With extra-cushioning and visible pockets of Gel in the heel, this shoe could be the inspiration Dad needs to liven up his daily routine.

It's not easy to choose a shoe for someone else. Foot Locker always has experts on hand to help identify your needs -- here are a few helpful tips to consider when selecting a shoe for your dad:

• Study his stride. Does his foot roll in or out? (HINT: You can also take a look at the wear and tear on his favorite shoes -- if it's more worn on the inside, he pronates, if it's worn on the outside, he supinates.)
• Does he have a high arch, low arch, or normal arch? (HINT: check out his footprint when he gets out of the pool. If you can see the entire outline of his foot, he's got a low arch. Generally, the narrower the outline, the higher the arch.)
• Try to keep his favorite color and wardrobe in mind. Your khaki-wearing dad might love a neutral-toned Nike Free, but if he likes to dress up his bright polos, the Reebok Zig offers the perfect pop of color.
Foot Locker Inc

Read more...

Shuz 4 U to operate SKECHERS-branded retail stores

SKECHERS USA, Inc., a global leader in the lifestyle footwear industry, announced that it has signed a retail licensing agreement with footwear retailer Shuz 4 U Ltd. to open and operate SKECHERS-branded retail stores throughout Ireland.

Under the agreement, Shuz 4 U will open its first two SKECHERS-branded retail stores in Dublin and Cork City by the end of 2010. Like the SKECHERS company-owned retail stores, the new stores in Ireland will carry a broad selection of SKECHERS product for men, women and kids. Plans call for additional stores to roll out across Ireland over the next five years.

“Our ten branded SKECHERS stores in the United Kingdom give us a highly effective means to reach consumers,” began Michael Greenberg, president of SKECHERS. “This licensing partnership with Shuz 4 U allows us to leverage strong European SKECHERS brand recognition into an expansion of our retail foothold and build on the strong wholesale business we currently have in Ireland and the UK.”

“With great style, variety and pricing, SKECHERS truly is an ideal brand for Ireland,” said Paul Gallagher, managing director of Shuz 4 U. “We look forward to offering current and future SKECHERS fans the opportunity to discover this product within a destination shopping experience.”

Shuz 4 U Ltd. was established through a partnership between managing director Paul Gallagher and executive director Sunil Shah. The founders share over 50 combined years of experience in wholesale, distribution and retail of trend-driven clothing and footwear lines throughout Ireland.

“Sunil and Paul have an intuitive understanding of the SKECHERS consumer and a deep knowledge of the Irish market,” added Marvin Bernstein, managing partner for SKECHERS, S.à.r.l. “We believe this partnership in Ireland will be the first of many retail licensing opportunities around the globe.”

Currently, there are more than 380 SKECHERS company owned, franchised or licensed stores in some of the most attractive locations in 41 countries across 6 continents.

Managing director Paul Gallagher has worked with Ecco footwear and Pepe Jeans and launched his own brand, GASOLINE, in 1989. He was named runner up for Best Independent Young Fashion Retailer-UK/Ireland in 2005. Additionally, executive director Sunil Shah is CEO of Pepe Jeans Ireland and Country Manager for Tommy Hilfiger. Shah operates seven Pepe Jeans and 16 Tommy Hilfiger retail stores in Ireland.

SKECHERS USA, Inc., based in Manhattan Beach, California, designs, develops and markets a diverse range of footwear for men, women and children under the SKECHERS name, as well as under several uniquely branded names. SKECHERS footwear is available in the United States via department and specialty stores, Company-owned SKECHERS retail stores and its e-commerce website, as well as in over 100 countries and territories through the Company’s global network of distributors and subsidiaries in Canada, Brazil, Chile, and across Europe, as well as through joint ventures in Asia.
SKECHERS USA Inc

Read more...

Foot Locker celebrates Father’s day

The days are getting longer, and with the increase of temperature you're noticing a decrease in Dad's energy. While you have picnics and beaches and barbecues on the brain, Dad is thinking hammocks, lounge chairs, and pool noodles...

Foot Locker is promoting a healthy, active lifestyle with products that re-energize from the ground up. The right athletic shoe will ensure comfort in Dad's activities, and can also motivate him to get moving.

The Zig, Reebok's new running shoe, coined "the energy drink for your feet," is a great way to energize a long, hot day. The foam sole decreases the amount of impact on Dad's legs, allowing a quicker recovery to sore muscles.

Every marathon season, running enthusiasts worldwide marvel at the speed and poise of the barefoot Kenyan athletes. Mimicking the freedom and flexibility of sole-to-pavement, the Nike Free Run+ is not only comfortable and lightweight, but looks great when running (or manning the grill).

Another brand synonymous with comfort and athleticism is Asics. The Gel Kayano16 is designed to endure the physical demand of an elite runner. With extra-cushioning and visible pockets of Gel in the heel, this shoe could be the inspiration Dad needs to liven up his daily routine.

It's not easy to choose a shoe for someone else. Foot Locker always has experts on hand to help identify your needs -- here are a few helpful tips to consider when selecting a shoe for your dad:

• Study his stride. Does his foot roll in or out? (HINT: You can also take a look at the wear and tear on his favorite shoes -- if it's more worn on the inside, he pronates, if it's worn on the outside, he supinates.)
• Does he have a high arch, low arch, or normal arch? (HINT: check out his footprint when he gets out of the pool. If you can see the entire outline of his foot, he's got a low arch. Generally, the narrower the outline, the higher the arch.)
• Try to keep his favorite color and wardrobe in mind. Your khaki-wearing dad might love a neutral-toned Nike Free, but if he likes to dress up his bright polos, the Reebok Zig offers the perfect pop of color.
Foot Locker Inc

Read more...

Shuz 4 U to operate SKECHERS-branded retail stores

SKECHERS USA, Inc., a global leader in the lifestyle footwear industry, announced that it has signed a retail licensing agreement with footwear retailer Shuz 4 U Ltd. to open and operate SKECHERS-branded retail stores throughout Ireland.

Under the agreement, Shuz 4 U will open its first two SKECHERS-branded retail stores in Dublin and Cork City by the end of 2010. Like the SKECHERS company-owned retail stores, the new stores in Ireland will carry a broad selection of SKECHERS product for men, women and kids. Plans call for additional stores to roll out across Ireland over the next five years.

“Our ten branded SKECHERS stores in the United Kingdom give us a highly effective means to reach consumers,” began Michael Greenberg, president of SKECHERS. “This licensing partnership with Shuz 4 U allows us to leverage strong European SKECHERS brand recognition into an expansion of our retail foothold and build on the strong wholesale business we currently have in Ireland and the UK.”

“With great style, variety and pricing, SKECHERS truly is an ideal brand for Ireland,” said Paul Gallagher, managing director of Shuz 4 U. “We look forward to offering current and future SKECHERS fans the opportunity to discover this product within a destination shopping experience.”

Shuz 4 U Ltd. was established through a partnership between managing director Paul Gallagher and executive director Sunil Shah. The founders share over 50 combined years of experience in wholesale, distribution and retail of trend-driven clothing and footwear lines throughout Ireland.

“Sunil and Paul have an intuitive understanding of the SKECHERS consumer and a deep knowledge of the Irish market,” added Marvin Bernstein, managing partner for SKECHERS, S.à.r.l. “We believe this partnership in Ireland will be the first of many retail licensing opportunities around the globe.”

Currently, there are more than 380 SKECHERS company owned, franchised or licensed stores in some of the most attractive locations in 41 countries across 6 continents.

Managing director Paul Gallagher has worked with Ecco footwear and Pepe Jeans and launched his own brand, GASOLINE, in 1989. He was named runner up for Best Independent Young Fashion Retailer-UK/Ireland in 2005. Additionally, executive director Sunil Shah is CEO of Pepe Jeans Ireland and Country Manager for Tommy Hilfiger. Shah operates seven Pepe Jeans and 16 Tommy Hilfiger retail stores in Ireland.

SKECHERS USA, Inc., based in Manhattan Beach, California, designs, develops and markets a diverse range of footwear for men, women and children under the SKECHERS name, as well as under several uniquely branded names. SKECHERS footwear is available in the United States via department and specialty stores, Company-owned SKECHERS retail stores and its e-commerce website, as well as in over 100 countries and territories through the Company’s global network of distributors and subsidiaries in Canada, Brazil, Chile, and across Europe, as well as through joint ventures in Asia.
SKECHERS USA Inc

Read more...

Summer Splash for Just Kidz 7

Sunday the 4th and Monday the 5th of July 2010 is the seventh edition of Just Kidz in the World Fashion Centre at the Koningin Wilhelminaplein in Amsterdam. The organisation is very busy with the preparations for the fair, but they are especially pleasantly surprised of the influx for new exhibitors/names for the fair.

In July is the seventh edition of Just Kidz. The most exhibitors from the last fair will participate again, but also a lot of new brands will introduce their new collections on the Just Kidz fair. The organisation is pleasantly surprised by this influx. They are proud to introduce the brands Kickies, Dottjes, Oldskoolkids, Sweet pink, but also Attachabadge, Blue Flame and Outburst have already confirmed their participation for Just Kidz.

The theme of Just Kidz 7 is Summer Splash. The visitors can, like usual, watch the newest collections and write orders. They can also get inspired by the fashion shows, where the kids from the dance academy Lucia Marthas show the new brand collections. Besides that, there will be enough entertainment and amusement for the visitors.

None Fashion Professional can miss this fair. We look forward to welcome you in the World Fashion Centre.
World Fashion Centre

Read more...

Summer Splash for Just Kidz 7

Sunday the 4th and Monday the 5th of July 2010 is the seventh edition of Just Kidz in the World Fashion Centre at the Koningin Wilhelminaplein in Amsterdam. The organisation is very busy with the preparations for the fair, but they are especially pleasantly surprised of the influx for new exhibitors/names for the fair.

In July is the seventh edition of Just Kidz. The most exhibitors from the last fair will participate again, but also a lot of new brands will introduce their new collections on the Just Kidz fair. The organisation is pleasantly surprised by this influx. They are proud to introduce the brands Kickies, Dottjes, Oldskoolkids, Sweet pink, but also Attachabadge, Blue Flame and Outburst have already confirmed their participation for Just Kidz.

The theme of Just Kidz 7 is Summer Splash. The visitors can, like usual, watch the newest collections and write orders. They can also get inspired by the fashion shows, where the kids from the dance academy Lucia Marthas show the new brand collections. Besides that, there will be enough entertainment and amusement for the visitors.

None Fashion Professional can miss this fair. We look forward to welcome you in the World Fashion Centre.
World Fashion Centre

Read more...

copyright Oxkoon Inc.