OTSMAGAZINE

There is nothing like wearing a bespoke corset, custom-tailored for your body and your personality. Champagne Corsets and Designs are on a mission to bring back bespoke. It's their greatest belief that in life and in fashion you can create exactly what you want. They are great believers of the saying "Nothing Is Impossible", they don’t subscribe to the beliefs that one needs to conform to a specific size or fleeting fashion trend. They encourage and are delighted by breaking down stylistic barriers and creating something that’s truly one of a kind.

I am a huge lover of corsets myself, Corsets may seem like the perfect night out outfit, but don’t let their sexy silhouette stop you from wearing them in the daytime, too. You can throw on a corset over your favorite outfit if you feel like leaving less to the imagination or wear one on its own underneath a blazer. You can also wear one with a nice pair of jeans, Or Over a t-shirt dress, the possibilities are endless when it comes to wearing a corset.

Award-winning designer Stella has had a love affair with lingerie for as long as she can remember. Stella studied Intimate Apparel at the Fashion Institute of Technology in the heart of New York City’s garment district and received her BFA in 2003.

Read our Mini- Interview with The Creative Director - Stella (Also The Corsetière) Interviewed By Linda Bella.

OTSM: Please tell us a little bit more about yourself.

Hello everyone, my name is Stella. I am the Founder, Designer, Creative Director, and Corsetière behind the brand Champagne Corsets & Designs, LLC.

OTSM: Your passion and flair for fashion is obvious tell me what inspired you to go into fashion design?

My love affair with fashion began when I was about 7 years old and my dream was to move to New York City and become a fashion designer. I put together a portfolio while I was in high school, took a few sewing classes at my local fabric store, and applied to the one fashion college I wanted to attend in the heart of New York City’s garment district, The Fashion Institute of Technology. I got accepted and graduated after 4 years with my BFA in fashion design.

While studying at The Fashion Institute of Technology I learned everything from tailoring, sportswear, knitwear, eveningwear, and so much more. My specialization in intimate apparel led me to corsetry and I immediately fell in love with the art. I studied both historical and modern-day corsets and really became fascinated with the exaggerated hourglass silhouette. When I realized corsets help create that shape I was hooked! Corsetry can also crossover into other categories such as evening wear, bridal, and for people with medical conditions or back pain. So although this is a niche market, I’m certainly not limited in any way.

After graduating, I spent years designing lingerie for many well-known labels and companies such as Kohls, Target, JCPenney, Wal-Mart, Victoria’s Secret, Bloomingdale’s, Lane Bryant, etc., just to name a few.

OTSM: Wow, You are amazing! When did you launch your lingerie boutique “Champagne Corset”?

After working for about 11 years in New York as a fashion designer, I opened my own corset and lingerie boutique in 2012 in the neighboring state of New Jersey. I offered a collection of specialty lingerie brands in hard-to-find sizes and of course, a large sewing studio completely dedicated to bespoke custom corsetry where Champagne Corsets & Designs, LLC was born. I deepened my expertise in fit and design techniques and now with over 19+ years designing intimate apparel and corsetry, my journey has taken me back to my home state of Connecticut where I am on a mission to help my clients create one-of-a-kind, unique bespoke corsets of their dreams.

OTSM: How would you describe your Brand “Champagne Corsets”?

Champagne Corsets is a lifestyle brand. I design and create one-of-a-kind, timeless corsets that accommodate personal needs with the goal of contributing to the client’s way of living. I don’t just sell corsets, but rather the way of life behind it. For example, when someone puts on their Champagne Corset they immediately adjust their posture upright while holding their head up high. They feel ready for life’s experiences and opportunities. They lead with elegance and seduction. They are in a luxury state of mind.

OTSM: What was the inspiration behind your Latest Corset design?

The inspiration behind the corset dress was to create an edgy design for the woman who isn’t afraid to take fashion risks and who really knows how to exude confidence. I worked with @briannalobrien who hand-painted the two dragons onto the corset.

OTSM: This Corset above is absolutely beautiful, what was the inspiration behind it too?

The black and tiffany blue corset was inspired by the large jewelry appliqué that is sewn on the front of the corset.

The jewelry company is based out of Venezuela and I worked with the owner to incorporate his one-of-a-kind, hand-made jewelry piece with my design. And from that jewelry piece, I hand-beaded other gems and crystals to create an elegant and glamorous corset.

OTSM: You are known as an admirer of unique clothing and design styles. How vital is it for a fashion brand to exude bespokeness and originality in order to stand out in a fiercely competitive market?

What I love most about bespoke work is having the ability to discuss any design ideas because I believe nothing is impossible. I don’t subscribe to the beliefs that you need to conform to a specific size or fleeting fashion trend. I encourage and am delighted by breaking down stylistic barriers by creating something that truly is one-of-a-kind. Every piece that I create is as beautiful and unique as the wearer.

My brand is feminine, girly, and effortlessly chic. My corsets make you feel confident and sexy, without being too revealing. I am a trendsetter who loves mixing fashion with the perfect corset that accentuates and highlights women's strengths.

OTSM: What does the word Women Empowerment mean to you?

To me, women empowerment means celebrating ourselves and all of the women in our lives daily. It means to support each other without any judgment and without competing or comparing yourself to other women. We need to hear each other’s voices and what we stand for while lifting each other up. It means to inspire, encourage, respect, and influence social change for others and ourselves. We need to live our purpose while improving the lives of those around us.

OTSM: Where do you look when seeking creative inspiration?

Traveling always inspires me, especially when I am able to shop for special materials and trims. Sometimes it’s even as simple as a color. Walking around big cities and admiring the people, architecture, and skyscrapers also brings a burst of inspiration.

Lastly, my clients inspire me too. I work with both women and men of different demographics and ages. It all varies because no two clients' bodies or designs are ever the same, and that makes it very exciting.

OTSM: There’s so much pressure for designers to come out with their greatest collection season after season. What advice would you give to aspiring Corsetières just starting out and hoping to make it in the Fashion industry?

I would absolutely encourage anyone who wants to start their own fashion business. There is room for everyone and we all have our own unique talents to share with the world. Most importantly, don’t compare yourself to any other designer. Educate your audience and don’t assume everyone knows what you know about your products. The corset is probably the most controversial garment in the history of fashion, but what most people don’t realize is that corsets also have mental, emotional, physical, and societal benefits.

To find out more about this amazing luxury brand click the links below.

WEBSITE

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

Photographer-Curtis Moore
Hi, Naima, Tell us a little bit about yourself, and what was life like growing up?

Hi Everyone! Well I grew up in Detroit city… I grew up in a musical household as both of my parents are musicians. They really allowed and supported us in developing creative sensibilities that led my sisters and I to pursue careers in the arts. My sisters and I had this hub of love and art at home, but we also grew up amidst dangerous surroundings. Detroit has some of the highest violence and illiteracy rates in the country. Albeit that the case, my parents also raised us as Nichiren Buddhists which gave me a sense of strength and courage to pursue my dreams despite any circumstance.

Amazing! So how did you start Modelling and what inspired you to go into the fashion industry?

I think I was naturally drawn to fashion because of the art within it. The art of design, photography, makeup, styling and even performing on the runway. I kind of stumbled upon being a model. When I moved to NYC to be a ballet dancer, my good friend who is a makeup artist asked me to do some tests shoots with her. And from there on I was very intrigued with Modeling. A couple of years later after being rejected by many agencies in the city, I was scouted for America’s Next Top Model

photographer- Curtis Moore

What was your first big break in the modelling and fashion industry?

My first big break in the fashion industry was - winning ANTM. With that, I landed being one of the faces of CoverGirl Cosmetics. I was a spokesmodel for the company.

If you weren’t modeling, your career choice would be?

If I weren’t modeling I would be doing exactly what I’m doing now. My career is not limited to modeling at all. I have actually been performing as a singer for the last several years. Of course, I would like to explore more of the performing arts like acting per say. I published a book as well. I went to college for Creative Writing and I really got to put those skills to the test with my first book “Model Behavior“.

How did it feel to win ANTM Season 4 and what impact did it have in your life?

I never imagined winning a hit reality TV model competition. Winning ANTM changed my life dramatically. I think I was a little lost at what I would do in life. I had just left the ballet company I had been performing with right before filming. I didn’t know where life would take me. But after winning I became a role model, using my career to inspire people and to keep growing as an individual.

Tell Us more about yourself and your personal Background.

Hi All, I am Amir, I am originally from Iran. The first time I came to the USA was in 2017. I came here with a 6-month Visa and 6 months turned into 3 years.

Lol! I can imagine, So how did you first get into modeling? And how long have you been modelling?

I got scouted for modelling by a clothing brand on Instagram when I was 22 years old in Tehran. Suddenly Modelling led to acting where I got booked for two movies. In a nutshell, I have been modelling for 8 years.

What do you enjoy most about your career?

I love being in front of the camera. It makes me feel different and creative. It’s my dream job.

What’s your most memorable shoot since the start of your career?

My first photoshoot ever was definitely the most memorable because I had no idea what I was doing. Haha! I was so scared and nervous. I remember the photographer walking me through different ideas and poses to help me get and feel more comfortable. I’ve been a posing master ever since.

What are the pros of being a model in the fashion industry today?

Modeling has become so diverse. Fashion isn’t about the color of your skin or the gender you were born with. It’s about you as a person. Even for myself, I am a Persian man from Iran who has come to New York to live my dream.

And Cons?....

It’s a really competitive industry. There are so many people, especially in New York, who want to be models.

What do you consider your biggest professional success so far?

My biggest professional success is honestly where I started from to where I am now. I moved to New York by myself, not knowing anyone. Just because I had a following in Iran, didn’t mean that I would have one here. It wasn’t easy at first, but I’m still here.

What were the Major Milestones that gave you that extra motivation boost to pursue modelling as a career?

There were times where I seriously thought about leaving modelling in the past. It’s a tough market to be in. You’re not always guaranteed to get a job. But, I would always stop and think to myself “You’ve come this far. You cannot give up!”

What are your other passions outside of modeling?

I love acting and singing.

What are some of your best tips for someone who wants to break into the modeling world?

There is only one advice I would give you because it's the same advice I would give myself - Just be yourself.

Any upcoming projects you are working on?

I am waiting to hear back from 2 jobs that I’m on hold for. So fingers crossed.

Wow, that's nice, I am keeping my fingers crossed for you too. What are your future goals, dreams and plans?

I would love to create my own fashion brand.

If you could change anything about the fashion and modelling industry what would it be?

That’s a really tough question. I think fashion and modeling are slowly evolving. They should continue to give more people chances in the industry. They need to keep designing clothes for all shapes and sizes. They should Continue on the path of diversity.

I completely agree with you, I believe we are all equal and should all be treated as such, no one is better than the other, yes some people get lucky and have the right connections in the fashion and modeling industry however I feel the chances of everyone having a chance to chase and achieve their dreams should be equal regardless of one's skin colour or ethnicity. Okay I really need to ask this - How often do you Work out and what are some of your best Health and Fitness Tips?

I work out at least 4-5 times a week. I make sure to always eat breakfast, have a big lunch and for dinner something light. Never go to bed with a really full stomach.

Since the start of your career what has been the biggest hurdle you have had to overcome?

Moving to a country not knowing anyone and only knowing very little English.

What’s the biggest misconception about the male modeling industry?

I think people assume that male modelling is easy, but it’s not. Female models sometimes have so much more to work with. They can play with their hair or do so many different poses. Male modelling can be limiting sometimes.

Which city do you consider your favorite?

New York City of course!

How has the current pandemic affected you as a Male Model and also as a Person?

The pandemic has made me feel more alone and it’s definitely affected my jobs, but I have still kept my faith and will try to always remain positive.

B/W Photo By- Jacob Sadrak @jacobsadrak

Cover Photo By - Stephen Hill @stephenjameshill

Outdoor Photos By- Nicole Wilson @nicolewilsonnyc @nicolewilsonphoto

Follow Amir Shaygan On Instagram

No one is in charge of your happiness except you, positive thinking Invokes More Energy, Initiative, Happiness. Happiness is like a “Kiss” you must share it to enjoy it, Achievement of your happiness is the only moral purpose of your life, and that happiness is the proof of your moral integrity since it is the proof and the result of your loyalty to the achievement of your values. In this brief post, I will be highlighting a few ways on how to stay happy in life.

So many people have spent a lifetime trying to search for the meaning of Happiness, I believe Happiness is in the Heart and we are as happy as we make our minds up to be. The world today is filled with so much Negative Energy and vibes it's so draining and one can easily fall into a deep depression, Anxiety, Into a very Dark and Draining state which will be very difficult to come out of, so before we become victims of this state of mind we must think of ways to help ourselves back up if we feel we are about to fall.

POSITIVE THINKING

Positive thinking raises energy levels, creativity and productivity by as much as 30%. The secret is to use positive thinking now, rather than when you are rich and famous. It's easy to focus on the Negative experiences but we must try not to let our past experiences ruin our future, think of things that make us happy, do things that keep us occupied and focused on our goals and dreams, The world we live in if filled with a lot of negative experiences and it makes thinking positive a hard task, I won't sit here and try to make it sound like a walk in the park especially with platforms like Social Media, it's very easy to see things that immediately affect our mood that is why I stress on the fact that we must make it our responsibility to stay happy, No one Can Make You Happy except you choose it- so "Choose Happiness Today".

PRACTICE THE ACT OF GIVING BACK.

I always tell people to be grateful for every experience they have gone through in Life, What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, practice self-love and also practice the act of kindness.

Remember whatever energy you put out to the universe will come back, put out good vibes and it will come back, put out Animosity and it will return to you, being kind to others takes nothing away from you rather it gives you a purpose and a good feeling knowing you have been able to help someone else.

So if life presents you with an opportunity to help others even if you are going through your own trials and tribulations do not hesitate to help, you never know what lovely surprise the universe will have for you.

FOCUS ON THE KIND OF LIFE YOU WANT TO LIVE.

Do you practice the "Law of Attraction", do you believe in the saying (Your vibes attract your tribe), if you don't then now will be a good time to start. A mind is a powerful tool and when used right you can use it to attract the kind of life you want to live, you can draw the kind of energy you deserve yourself, I will never tell you to forget your past experiences because I can never forget mine, however, I will say don't dwell on it because it will do you more harm than good, instead of living life in regret be thankful for the experience and ask the universe to bring the life you deserve your way, if it's friends that drain you and make you feel depressed or negative, then it is time to change things, learn to let go of whatever doesn't bring you peace of mind.

FOCUS ON THE KIND OF LIFE YOU WANT TO LIVE.

To enjoy good health, to bring true happiness to one’s family, to bring peace to all, one must first discipline and control one’s own mind. If a man can control his mind he can find the way to Enlightenment, and all wisdom and virtue will naturally come to him.”

– Buddha

Every day is a great day to celebrate the amazing women in your life and not just wait for Mother's day, their birthdays or International Women's Day. A woman is a full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture and transform.

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