Print Media Still Has A Pulse: September Issues On Newsstands

Photo credit: nikkistyle.net

September's Trending! The other day me and probably 99.9 percent of the fashion industry scurried to pick-up every September issue pertaining to style and beauty. We've been also "liking" photo-after-photo on Instagram of fashion enthusiasts proudly showing off their stacks. September issues are generally finger-licking thick, and consists of overwhelming amounts of ads and free sample perfume scents. Speaking of size, Self is the thinnest magazine in my pile. (Ha!) Pun intended, or nah?  

Photo Credit: Google

I spend a lot of time studying and analyzing content and creative direction. Like reading, it's my way to escape into the creative minds of brilliant individuals in the world. Sometimes I'm so wow'ed by an ad -- that I fixate on it and often wonder what the brainstorming session(s) was like -- to produce such a magnificent concept. I'm a geek like that! Also, I have a keen eye for good journalism and do read selected stories (what's left of them), as well as stay on top of emerging runway and pop culture fashion trends.

Print's Alive. Come. On. I know I'm not the only one that enjoys the hands-on experience of touching and reading a magazine while sipping a latte...and clipping outfits to post on (mood) bulletin boards...and bookmarking articles using colorful post-it sticky notes. Right? Well. Let us be sure to bask in these moment, because the conversation about whether or not print media is dying a slow death is still up for debate.

"Print vs. Digital" talks are interesting as it relates to evolution, for sure. However, we must consider the consumer in efforts to keep a thoughtful, sustainable balance: Not every reader has the means to purchase, nor has access to, technology. And (holy catastrophe) what if the world goes dark for weeks with no electricity and mobile data - then what?

Dear Publishing Industry: We can't go full-blown digital yet; we're not ready on so many levels. Disclaimer: I'm not bias and this is not an attempt to save print. Okay, yeah it is.

PRINT VERSUS DIGITAL: 

COMPARING THE 2 TYPES OF MARKETING (INFOGRAPHIC)

Photo Credit: Root Studio (Print vs. Digital), Mind Your Black Business (Infographic)

Zoë Kravitz for Nylon

Photo Credit: Nylon

Wicked Cool Cover Shot! Nylon is finally climbing its way to my heart. Nylon's edgy millennium girl (look and feel) is hip and cool and 'oh so' Nasty Gal-esque.

Honestly, the only print copy (of Nylon) I own is the March '15 issue with Rita Ora gracing the cover. And I certainly can't wait to pick-up the August issue, b/c I'm a super denim enthusiast as well as a Zoë Kravitz fan. (You might have a new subscriber soon, Ny!)

It's a breath of fresh air to peep some new flavor on the covers of Nylon. I like to read mainstream fashion magazines that showcases various types of  stylish women. (A+)

Kerry Washington: A Woman On The Move With A Purpose. #Isupport

Photo Credit: usatoday.com

I read a lot of celebrity interviews and magazine cover stories. Like a whole lot. I even watch interviews on youtube.com, specifically listening closely for the dim messages spoken...that essentially highlights the core values of certain celebrities. And whether they consciously intend to elaborate on those values or not — the beliefs are there — really tune in and you'll hear. Based on those values, I will choose whether or not to support the work or brand of an actress, artist, or author. In other words, dope fashion, punchlines and beats will not suffice. What are you really saying? What are you really about?

I look at the total package. I don't focus solely on "what's trending."

Kerry Washington Is The Total Package.

And she's got my undivided attention! Here's why: Kerry Washington (KW) is an actress and activist that devotes a considerable amount of time on making a difference in the world as it relates to diversity, politics, humanity and ending violence against women [Women's Health]. Washington's philanthropic passions are consistent and transparent by way of her (acceptance) speeches, which magnifies the beauty of her brand. Moreover, the acting roles she lands compliments a larger vision in terms of female empowerment, especially her starring role in ABC's hit TV series, Scandal, as Olivia Pope. Washington's enormous love and commitment to all-the-above, as well as her great fashion sense, leaves her fans in awe and wanting more. I study celebs with brands that are infused with worldly impact-driven values and endeavors, like KW. Hash tag, #Isupport. 

Kerry's Stance On (Person)al Style.
Unless you've been living under a rock, I'm sure you've heard of the Met Gala. A sea of fashion enthusiasts have been banging away on computer keys to write about 'failed' fashion on the Red Carpet. C'mon, do we really care that Kim Kardashian allegedly jacked Beyonce's Met Gala look from a billion years ago? And now according to reports, Queen Bey allegedly has been copying Jelena Karleusa's style for a hot minute. (Jelena, who?) 

Are you guys really wow'ed by this stuff? Kerry and I are not. Hash tag, #EndRant.

Washington was recently quoted in a mainstream fashion magazine 'on style' specifically on criticism. As a result, my admiration and respect for KW tripled. Hash tag, #Isupport.

"I don't like this thing about who got it right and who got it wrong, because we're not all trying to be the same person." - Kerry Washington

Kerry's right: We're not all trying to be the same. Let's remember that :)

Photo Credit: eonline.com

Happy Easter Sunday.

Photo Credit: nikkistyle.net

Happy Easter Sunday, Lovies! 

In my basket, all the eggs are pink and purple and includes a copy of InStyle, British Edition, the April '15 issue. 

Surprise, surprise. Hehe...

So—I'm in the midst of creating an editorial calendar i.e. new content for nikkistyle.net. And the mission to inspire (person)al style and individualism will remain a goal, I pinky swear!

In the interim, if you want to pull together a stylish Easter outfit and need an idea, click here to read a past post of mine. Also, I share a sea of visuals, style tips, and tricks via Tumblr. 

Enjoy! XoXo —nikki | @nikkistyle on Twitter

So, what IS nikkistyle™?

Photo Credit: nikkistyle™

Mind Mapping! As I think back to (January) 2010 when nikkistyle.net was created, I smile with joy and satisfaction. My mission was/is simple: To blog and showcase a variety of fashion, style and beauty (in first-person). I wanted an exclusive platform to jot down [my personal] commentary as well as to inspire you—the readers—to embrace, create and/or re-create your personal style. I wanted to inspire you to take a chance and play with fashion, whether it be in public, or at home in front of a mirror.

Today I reflect on what nikkistyle™ represents in efforts to clearly think about-and articulate next steps (for building...the brand?) eeck! I can't believe I just mentioned the word: brand. That's a bit scary yet exciting at the same time, but [I am] looking forward to what's in store. Perhaps more creative consulting? Perhaps writing a fashion column (for Marie Claire, LOL)? Perhaps blogging for reputable style and beauty Websites? Perhaps developing and editing content for magazines? 

Photo Credit: PowerScore

Well. I do know one thing. The wheels are starting to turn faster; check out my mind map above :)

Are you starting to think more about branding, too? Share your story with me: nikki@nikkistyle.net 




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