I thoroughly enjoyed hosting KVaughn’s 100% linen scarf collection photo shoot for summer 2024. Veteran photographer Ted Kawalerski was the first to arrive driving in from Sleepy Hollow, New York. Since he was a little early we had breakfast and started to plan out his shooting strategy. He and I have been talking about KVaughn’s extraordinary work and for this shoot Ted wanted to participate because he knew there would be great fashion to photograph and amazing portraits to produce. Matt Sampson aka The Sneaker King and the rest of the crew followed shortly afterwards including KV’s creative assistant Milton White, photographer Brian Hunt drove his large van filled with camera and lighting equipment and his son aspiring model Larson Hunt enjoyed being photographed by all of the talented photographers on hand. Many thanks to my man AL B for his amazing video and still work as well as photographer Isiah from Blacklight Studios.
In our fast-paced world, feeling down from time to time is inevitable. However, when these feelings persist, they may be indicative of depression, a common but serious mood disorder. The good news is that there are numerous strategies to help lift your spirits and improve your mental health. Here are some practical solutions to consider when you’re feeling kinda blue.
1. Connect with Others
Isolation can exacerbate feelings of depression, making it essential to maintain social connections. Reach out to friends, family, or join a support group. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with someone you trust can provide comfort and perspective. If face-to-face interactions are challenging, consider phone calls, video chats, or even text messages to stay connected.
2. Engage in Physical Activity
Exercise is a powerful mood booster. Physical activity increases the production of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. You don’t need to run a marathon; even a brisk walk, yoga session, or a dance class can help alleviate symptoms of depression. Find an activity you enjoy and make it a regular part of your routine.
3. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
Mindfulness and meditation are effective techniques for managing depression. These practices help you stay grounded in the present moment and reduce the impact of negative thoughts. Apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided meditations that can assist you in developing a mindfulness routine.
4. Maintain a Healthy Diet
What you eat can significantly impact your mood. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can improve your overall well-being. Avoid excessive sugar and caffeine, which can lead to mood swings and energy crashes. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, are particularly beneficial for brain health.
5. Seek Professional Help
If your feelings of depression are severe or persistent, seeking professional help is crucial. Therapists and counselors can provide valuable tools and strategies to manage your depression. In some cases, medication may be necessary to regulate mood. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if you need support.
6. Set Realistic Goals
Depression can make even the simplest tasks seem overwhelming. Break your day into small, manageable tasks and set realistic goals for yourself. Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. This can help build a sense of achievement and boost your self-esteem.
7. Engage in Activities You Enjoy
Pursue hobbies and activities that bring you joy. Whether it’s reading, gardening, painting, or playing a musical instrument, engaging in pleasurable activities can distract you from negative thoughts and provide a sense of fulfillment.
Remember, it’s okay to feel down sometimes, but persistent sadness is not something you should face alone. By incorporating these strategies into your life, you can take proactive steps towards improving your mental health and finding a brighter, more hopeful outlook. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to seek help and support from those around you.
Photography and Set Design: Tony Ward, Copyright 2024
Creative Direction: KVaughn
Lighting Assistant: Anthony Colagreco
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In recent years, Virtual Reality (VR) technology has made significant strides in revolutionizing the way we approach exercise and fitness. One particularly exciting application of VR in this realm is the development of boxing programs designed to provide users with engaging and effective workouts. As of the latest information available, VR headsets equipped with immersive boxing simulations offer users a dynamic and entertaining way to improve cardiovascular health, enhance agility, and build strength.
The latest VR headsets boast advancements in display resolution, refresh rates, and tracking accuracy, providing users with a highly immersive and realistic experience. With improved ergonomics and comfort features, these headsets ensure that users can engage in extended workout sessions without discomfort or fatigue. Additionally, the integration of motion tracking technology enables precise and responsive gameplay, allowing users to execute punches, blocks, and dodges with fluidity and accuracy.
In terms of boxing programs specifically, developers have introduced a variety of VR experiences tailored to different fitness levels and preferences. Whether users are looking for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts, skill-based drills, or immersive boxing simulations, there is a diverse range of programs available to cater to their needs. These programs often incorporate gamification elements, such as leaderboards, achievements, and progress tracking, to motivate users and enhance their overall experience.
One notable aspect of VR boxing programs is their ability to simulate real-world training scenarios and environments. Users can spar with virtual opponents of varying difficulty levels, practice combinations on punching bags, or engage in shadowboxing routines in immersive virtual arenas. The dynamic nature of these simulations keeps users challenged and engaged, making workouts more enjoyable and effective.
Moreover, VR boxing programs offer a level of accessibility and convenience that traditional gym settings may lack. Users can engage in workouts from the comfort of their own homes, eliminating barriers such as travel time, gym memberships, or equipment availability. This accessibility makes VR boxing programs particularly appealing to individuals with busy schedules or those who prefer exercising in a private environment.
In addition to physical benefits, VR boxing programs also offer mental and emotional rewards. The immersive nature of VR experiences allows users to escape from their surroundings and immerse themselves fully in the workout, reducing stress and increasing mindfulness. Furthermore, the sense of achievement and progression gained from mastering new skills or achieving fitness goals can boost confidence and self-esteem.
Overall, the latest developments in VR headsets and boxing programs for exercise represent an exciting frontier in fitness technology. With their combination of immersive gameplay, dynamic workouts, and accessibility, VR boxing programs have the potential to revolutionize the way we approach fitness and exercise, making workouts more engaging, effective, and enjoyable for users of all ages and fitness levels.
Unveiling Your Professional Brand: The Art of The Portrait
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Text by Tony Ward, Copyright 2024
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In today’s digital age, first impressions are often made through the lens of a camera. A professional portrait serves as a powerful tool to convey your personal brand, establishing credibility and leaving a lasting impact on potential clients or employers. However, achieving that perfect shot requires more than just a quick snapshot – it’s an investment in your professional image. So, what can you expect when you invest in a professional portrait session with Tony Ward Studio?
Firstly, you can anticipate working with a skilled team who understands the nuances of capturing the essence of your personality and profession. Our experts possess a keen eye for lighting, angles, and composition, ensuring that your portrait radiates confidence and authenticity. We will guide you through the process, offering direction on posing, expressions, and wardrobe choices that best complement your desired image.
In addition to the photographer’s expertise, you’ll have access to a professional studio setting. Tony Ward’s newly constructed studio is designed to create carefully curated lighting and backdrops that align with your personal brand. From voluminous cloud backdrops like the one used for influencer Katie Kerl’s portrait, or to more creative environmental settings like the studios recent creation of a set depicting a French garden at night in Paris with the Eiffel Tower in the background, Tony Ward Studio provides a controlled environment to capture your ideal look.
Katie Kerl. Photo: Tony Ward, Copyright 2024
Moreover, a professional portrait session may include a comprehensive styling consultation with our in house creative director, KVaughn. Whether you require assistance with hair and makeup or need guidance on selecting the right attire, our team will ensure that every detail is thoughtfully considered to enhance your overall look and appearance.
Once the session is complete, you can expect a selection of high-quality, retouched images to choose from. A veteran photographer like myself understands the importance of post-production editing, meticulously refining each shot to achieve a polished and powerful result. This attention to detail ensures that your final portrait portrays you at your best, showcasing your confidence and professionalism.
Investing in a professional portrait is an investment in your personal brand, career aspirations and your acquiring a piece of fine art. While the cost may vary depending on your needs, the benefits of a well executed portrait is invaluable. It’s an opportunity to create a lasting first impression, establish credibility, and present yourself as a competent and trustworthy professional in a visually driven world.
TW: When did you first realize you wanted to pursue fashion design?
KV: I never really pursued Fashion Design actually I had a manufacturer, I didn’t start sewing actually until my little sister Dorian bought me a sewing machine and I took a six week sewing class. I think I was always a designer. I always believed you can go to school to learn how to sew. Being a designer is so much more so I don’t know that I pursed being a fashion designer. I really didn’t know what that was I didn’t know that was a role. I always loved clothes I work selling clothes and shoes for 15 years before I launched my collection. Actually it was a customer who told me I was a Designer. I just didn’t know it I was doing styling at the time for my customers but a that time it wasn’t called styling it was just putting together a look head to toe but once I heard the word designer, I just wanted to wear something with my name on it. I didn’t start sewing until much later in my career when my always supportive sister Dorian bought me the sewing machine and said you will figure it out. She constantly pushes me to be better in life overall so I found a 6 week class and told my instructor I just wanted to learn how to sew a straight line. It was a great turn by making my own scarves we slashed labor cost. I still hand sew pieces that need couture touches but we have a manufacturer down the street so we good.
TW: What made making scarves your focus?
KW: Well I’ve always loved scarves so we started doing them just for personal use and everyone start asking how they could get one so we did a small collection actually the first collection was made out of upholstery fabric as time went on the scarf collection was outpacing the mens and women’s collection sales so we decided to make them the focus going forward.
TW: What makes the KVaughn brand unique?
KV: I think our whole approach to design. I think it’s what we don’t do that makes us unique we don’t do more than 3 of a kind. We select high quality fabrics and we don’t chase trends. Most of our interactions with our clients is one on one so there is a personal touch provided to each customer. Our scarves take on the personality of the wearer.
TW: How do you go about selecting fabric for each season?
KV: Good Question. I’m not sure there’s a good answer because it’s different inspiration each season the fabrics: wool, cashmere, mohair for winter, linen and silk for summer. It’s more than just the fabrics I pick. I tap into the mood of the season. Is it about the length short or long wide or narrow? I like to think about the man or woman – how would they want to wear it and then the fabric has a language all its own.
TW: What are KVaughn goals for 2024?
KV: Goals 2024? Well that’s a good one. I started my collection in March of 1994, so I’ve been blessed with almost 30 years in Design and I gave myself 6 months, so I’m always concerned about overstaying my welcome. I will always design, that’s in my DNA but what that looks like I really can’t say. I’m really enjoying The Creative Director position with Tony Ward Studio, and I’ve been getting offers to collaborate. As far as K.VAUGHN SCARVES I always ask myself do we have anything to say Fashion wise are your designs still relevant? Is there a market for my work I always reevaluate at the end of the year. I’ll keep you posted.
TW: Who were your earliest fashion influences?
KV: I’m reminded of a Biggie song where he was asked the same question.No one influenced me to get into fashion. It was always in me but I do remember me and my Best Friend Kevin Long. I was introduced to him when I was living in Boston and we would always talk style and Fashion I met him in 1986. I didn’t start my own line till 1994, but the talks we had definitely had an influence. He even flew down to help with my first collection after I got into design. You grab a little from everyone it’s like make a cake. Karl Lagerfeld had that uniform that look that was distinctive. Alexander McQueen, his shows were always dramatic. Isaac Mizrahi and the Documentary Unzipped revealed the hectic weeks before a Runway Show. Ralph Lauren who doesn’t sew a lick but has such a vision for Men, Women, and Home . There’s so many influences that have crossed my path. Oh I can’t forget meeting Andre Leon Talley.
TW: How did your upbringing impact your creativity?
KV: Unfortunately words like art and designer were never used in my household. I always was looking to get away and trying to see what was out there in a bigger world. I do remember as a kid I would look at the walls in our home and always thought something was missing. Now I know it was art, so I think my upbringing made me go in another direction. Now my place is filled with art on every wall.
TW: What is a typical KVaughn design day like?
KV: Well since I sell life insurance during the day my design process happens at night around 11pm. I’ll get in my studio lay out whatever fabrics I’m working with and turn on the Tv, no volume and have my music on blast. Latlely I’ve been working on making new mannequins for display use. It’s all about creating a comfort zone with no limits . Weekend trips mainly to New York to buy fabrics means a visit 20 fabrics stores in one day just to put a collection together and every fabric supplier you have to negotiate fabrics prices. It’s hectic but it’s the best part because I know no matter the reception to a particular collection I put in the work and selected every fabric so a Day in a Life is very interesting and quite fulfilling.
TW: Which current design house do you gain the most inspiration from?
KV: Inspiration houses: Channel particularly The Lagerfeld Era, Hermes For the Scarves, Ralph Lauren for the Scale and reach of the brand.
