Chris Moore, legendary fashion photographer whose career spanned more than six decades was honored with the Special Recognition Award. Beginning his career in 1954 as a photographer’s assistant at Vogue’s in-house studio, he worked alongside Cecil Beaton, Henry Clark and many other fashion photographers.

Since then he has shot independently, photographing private haute couture collections for designers like Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Cardin, as well as live shows and fashion weeks all across the globe.

One of his most noteworthy additions to the fashion industry however, came in 2000, when he launched catwalking.com. The site showcases all of his catwalk photography and has became an invaluable resource for the industry and its journalists.

The Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator was given to Edward Enninful for his overwhelming contributions to the global fashion industry. Enninful began his career modeling for Simon Foxton, and assisting i-D fashion director Beth Summers.

Weeks after Enniful’s 18th birthday, Summers left i-D and was replaced by Enniful as fashion director of the publication, making him the youngest ever fashion director for an international publication. Since then he has worked as contributing editor to Italian and American Vogue, and in 2011 he took over as fashion and style-director of W Magazine where he remains today. His revolutionary vision and foreword thinking continues to shift the global fashion industry.

It was just a matter of time before the BFAs were to recognize Anna Wintour, OBE in all the glory she deserves. Tonight was finally that night as she was honored with the Outstanding Achievement Award. The British born, American Vogue editor-in-chief has served the role as “fairy godmother” to the fashion industry for the last quarter century.

Her trademark pageboy bob haircut and sunglasses can be seen front row at every major runway, and is known for having a keen eye for cutting edge fashion. She has also started a program that seeks young talent, giving them opportunities to present their designs to a wider audience.

Famous for her stone cold demeanor—seen through Meryl Streep’s portrayal of a character believed to be based on Wintour, in The Devil Wears Prada—Wintour has undoubtedly been one of the most influential people in the developments of the fashion industry since the late 80s.

Some other noteworthy award winners were Marques D’Almeida for “Emerging Womenswear Designer,” Nicolas Ghesquière at Louis Vuitton for “International Designer,” and Alexander McQueen for “Red Carpet Designer. See a full list of awards winners here.

The post Swank Scoop: British Fashion Awards appeared first on KRUI Radio.

The first snow has fallen, meaning the winter fashion season is officially upon us. With temperatures dropping rapidly and the sun setting earlier and earlier, it’s becoming increasingly more difficult for the college student to get up and make an effort to look their best for the day ahead.

While it may be the easy choice to wear layer upon layer of mismatched sweatshirts, hats and gloves, there are practical ways to stay warm and stylish without breaking the bank. There’s no need to spend four digits on designer clothes to look good in this winter wonderland. Below is a rundown of the winter essentials to stay warm and stylish, while still remaining within the college-student budget.

A winter coat. A must for any Iowa winter, the winter coat comes in all shapes, sizes and styles. Whether it be a parka, blanket coat, or trench, protection from the elements is always top priority. Fendi’s pink weather-proof parka, YOHJI YAMAMOTO’s duvet coat, or Topshop Uniques’s quilted bomber are all perfect examples of possible avenues for braving the polar vortex in style. Boohoo and H&M offer affordable pieces that capture the essence of these runway looks.

Secondly is a good pair of snow boots. You don’t have to settle for those faux fur lined monstrosities any longer. There is another way! A rugged weather proof take on the classic Chelsea boot, or a traditional rubber-rain-boot-meets-sneaker with thirtytwo’s, Exit 14 boot, while pricier, can do wonders for your winter wardrobe.

Accessaries. Scarves, gloves, hats, balaclavas, you name it. Accessaries are a must, not only to make a statement, but to stop the bitter cold. Scarves are probably the most versatile of cold weather add-ons.  There’s a hundred different ways to tie a scarf. The fake knot, cozy neck wraps, braided, or an infinity scarf, hellonatural.com presents 13 stylish ways to wear a scarf this winter.

When it comes to winter head gear there’s not a whole lot to work with in the sophistication department. The slouchy beanie is warm but completely played at this point. But if you must, it’s acceptable to trap the heat. At least don’t get caught wearing a bomber hat. Sorry Donald Glover.

Hip hop has turned the balaclava into an intimidation factor with the help of Odd Future, A$AP Rocky, and even Kanye at times. However, it’s still pretty lackluster in the traditional fashion sense. This ski-mask-like protection can probably stay at home unless you’re hitting the slopes or robbing a bank. (KRUI nor I endorse such behavior of course.)

Finally, there’s the under wrap. The illusion to create one garment appear as if it were multiple layers was all over the runways last show season. Ralph Lauren did his best with the simple yet elegant lawson cape and Ellison coat. Midwest winters definitely warrant multiple layers, so try an oversized blanket scarf with a knee length cardigan to achieve a similar mystique.

Whether you adopt your current wardrobe into newly styled creations, or seek out new options, hopefully these quick tips gave you the tools you need to improve your style while still surviving the Iowa winter.

The post Swank Scoop: Style That Keeps You Warm appeared first on KRUI Radio.

Sunday November 2, Atmosphere brought their “North of Hell Tour” to Blue Moose Tap House.

Emcee Slug’s highflying rhymes more than pleased the eager Iowa City crowd—one that felt like home for the Minneapolis bred tandem. DJ Plain Ole Bill joined the group on stage, trading off tweaks & scratches with DJ/producer Ant.

The Rhymesayers extravaganza bill included Dem Atlas and Prof, both Minneapolis born, as openers for the legendary hip hop act.

Dem Atlas was the first to hit the stage. Positivity, screaming, and flailing dread locks created an electric energy on stage. The 22 year old emcee’s material consisted mostly of his Charlie Brown EP, culminating in a passionate performance of “All We Got”—a call to arms to today’s youth to stand up and fight for all that’s good and just in the world.

Rhymesayers Entertainment’s second act of the night was Prof who made sure to bring the party. Dressed in a honey badger t-shirt, his tenacious demeanor reflected that of the vicious mammal. Playing his energetic tracks “Farout” and “Me Boi,” his passionate storytelling meshed with DJ Fundo’s mixing were nothing short of hype. 

Wasting no time at all, Ant and Plain Ole Bill spun the crowd right onto Lake Street, literally. The house lights went black and a piano-driven beat dropped. Slug emerged from the corner of the eerie lit stage–stepping into Hell possibly? Or maybe a little North of it? You be the judge:

Atmosphere didn’t pause to chat it up with the crowd as Slug jumped quickly into their lyrical history. Covering everything from their days before Rhymesayers Entertainment with “God’s Bathroom Floor,” to their latest single “Kanye West,” Slug’s poetic lyricism meshed with the cohesion of Ants classic mixes created an exciting evening. 

Rooted in northwest hip hop culture, Atmopshere’s music consists of heavy lyrical content over alternatively influenced beats. No better example would be the track “Flicker,” from their eighth studio album Southsiders. Written in memory of label mate, fellow rapper, and close friend Eyedea, Slug’s emotional performance was met with a see of flickering lighters and cell phone screens. While the rest of the show Slug is backed by Ant and Plain Ole Bill on the 1s and 2s, Slug is left alone for this one with just the background track playing. This choreographed move makes for a meaningful tribute to their lost Minneapolis brother.

Closing the night, Dem Atlas joined Slug center stage to trade off freestyles–A signature move that is the mark of this true hip hop legend.

Checkout some photos from the show below.

The post Show Review: Atmosphere @ Blue Moose 11/2/14 appeared first on KRUI Radio.

World-renowned fashion designer Oscar de la Renta lost his near decade-long battle against cancer on October 21.

The Dominican Republic-born legend was known for making women feel beautiful in their own skin. His elegant gowns dressed movie stars, rock stars, and first ladies. In addition to outfitting influential women such as Oprah Winfrey and Jacqueline Kennedy, de la Renta is responsible for the iconic Boy Scout uniform.

His influence can be seen throughout the industry, but more importantly on the lives he touched with his art and heartfelt personality.

Oscar de la Renta began his career in the late 1950s in Madrid at the salon of Cristóbal Balenciaga where he drew sketches to send out for clientele approval.

His first ever commissioned dress was for Beatrice Lodge, daughter of then the United States ambassador to Spain. The dress was featured on the cover of Life magazine that same year.

After various stints at Lanvin, Elizabeth Arden, Jane Derby and his own line, de la Renta was named president of the Council of Fashion Designers of America.

In 1989 he married his wife of the last 25 years, Annette Reed. Oscar la Renta’s passions outside of the fashion industry were his extravagant gardens and his meticulous efforts to maintain a beautiful home. He returned to his home in Kent, Connecticut where he and Annette shared these passions during his last days.

Friends, family members, and colleagues paid their respects at a private funeral in Manhattan today. In attendance was Oscar’s long time friend and editor-in-chief of American Vogue, Anna Wintour. Mrs. Wintour read a heartfelt poem by David Harkins entitled “He is Gone.” Her words, “you can open your eyes and see all that he has left” are incredibly fitting remarks about a man so influential in every aspect of his life.

Oscar de la Renta’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he has touched, as well as the fashion empire he has left behind.

The post Swank Scoop: Remembering Oscar de la Renta appeared first on KRUI Radio.

Jenny Lewis layers meticulously structured lyrics that evoke self-assessment and gender roles over a slow-tempo pop melody on this week’s Track of the Week, “Just One of The Guys.”

Produced by Beck off her album The Voyager, Lewis remains true to herself with yet another witty number that details blunt confession after another.

The refrain, “No matter how hard I try to be just one of the guys, there’s a little something inside that won’t let me” speaks to the raw self awareness she has that separates male and female roles.

In a society immersed in gender equality, Lewis uses complicated skepticism paired with her usual whimsy to delve deep into this personalized account of being a woman in the 21st century.

Watch the official music video featuring actresses Anne Hathaway, Kristen Stewart, and Brie Larson dressed in drag below.

The post Track of the Week: “Just One of The Guys” by Jenny Lewis appeared first on KRUI Radio.

Making their second stop on the North of Hell Tour, Atmosphere will be playing at Blue Moose Tap House on Sunday, November 2.

Rhymesayers Entertainment’s poster boys, Ant & Slug are bringing their soulful production and provocative storytelling to Iowa City. Arguably the most influential independent Hip Hop label in the business, Rhymesayers’ second offering ever was Atmosphere’s Overcast in 1997. Now considered a classic of the genre, the duo has released a combined eight studio albums and nine EPs. Most recently the duo released their album Southsiders in May of 2014.

On Southsiders, rapper Slug and producer Ant speak to the monotonous and dejected society they trudge through daily. Their hallmarked northwest hip hop sound is consistent throughout the record, utilizing soft rock and electronic sounds, with heavy jazz influences—most noticeably on the track “Arthur’s Song.” Expect much of the same Sunday night.

Watch the official music video for the title track, “Southsiders” off Atmosphere’s latest album:

Dem Atlas, Prof, & DJ Fundo are touring as support acts on the North of Hell Tour.

Tickets are on sale now at Blue Moose Tap House or on Ticketfly.

The post Show Preview: Atmosphere @ Blue Moose Tap House (11/2/14) appeared first on KRUI Radio.

The set was filled with passion, energy, and messages of love and a desire to find home. They playing the entirety of their self-titled debut album, as well as a new song they’ve been working on throughout the tour, and an incredibly reserved cover of The Killers’ “Mr. Brightside.”

After the show I spoke with Daniel Chae, violinist and electric guitarist for the sextet. He said, “this was one of the best crowds on tour. Seriously, we’re just blown away by the love and support.”

Check out our video of their performance:

The Tuesday leading up to the show I spoke with Alex Hwang, lead vocalist and guitarist of Run River North.

Read the interview below:

KRUI: The band was originally, “Monsters Calling Home.” Why the name change? What’s the meaning behind the new name?

Alex: It’s simply because Of Monsters & Men. I feel like we were having too many conversations about them, and we wanted to stop talking about them so we just dropped the ‘Monsters’. The new name kind of came out from that. We were just letting go and seeing if we could come up with something better than that. What we came up with was Run River North. I have a friend whose daughter is named “River.” As we talked about it, it felt like it described our music and who we were a lot better than “monsters”. Our music and our live show is very much like a river where it can get really loud and bombastic and other times it gets really quiet and it’s more about the lyrics. It just has more emotion to it and we’ve grown into that name a lot more than “Monsters Calling Home.” And it’s still a song, but I feel like we’ve grown up from that.

Speaking of growing up, the first thing that really got the band going was the “Fight to Keep” video in your Honda. Where did that idea come from?

We were doing a cover for a friend of ours who requested a song and we didn’t have time to record it anywhere so we just decided to do it in my Honda CR-V. It sounded really [good]. There’s actually another video we have—a Black Keys cover—so after that we just decided to ante up and see if we could get into all of our cars and pretend like it’s a Honda video. Luckily for us Honda saw it and made a big deal about it and got us onto Jimmy Kimmel. It all started because of our cover song and it sounded great. And [we thought] why not make another video that doesn’t look live everything else on Youtube.

I have a quote here. You said, “We want to share the stories about being ‘dash American.” Talk about what being ‘dash American’ means to the band and how is it important to your message?

We’re all sons and daughters of immigrant, Korean parents. We’re lucky because we live in L.A. but a lot of times people see us and say, “Oh well they’re just Asian.” We see ourselves as American before anything else. For us it’s just, how can we reconcile our parent’s stories and what they gave up to give us an opportunity here in America, along with the fact that we have our own dreams, our own ambitions and can be different from what they expected of us. And how do you do that honorably and make sure that you’re not pissing on what they gave up while at the same time being true to yourself? In the band that’s something that we all wrestle with because some of us don’t come from completely musical backgrounds and given this opportunity, what do we do? Some of us worked in banking, others went to school for other things. I think for the message of the band, the songs that we sing are about what we consider ‘home’ and what does it mean to keep moving around so much. Regardless of what “dash American” you are. America is built on immigrants. It’s built on people trying to find ‘home’ with their careers or with their families or what not and I think that resonates well with the kind of message we had with our first album.

Have you received any negative response or backlash being a Korean-American group that plays your American folk/rock sound?

No I think most of the people are pleasantly surprised. We get a lot of people that say, “oh we did not expect that from you guys.” The initial response is obviously surprise but we’ve gotten nothing but open arms. People [are] buying our vinyl, our t-shirts, and coming to more shows because of the fact that we aren’t what you expect us to sound like. If anything the backlash only comes when [we] don’t get a response. There hasn’t been any hate mail or [people saying] “you guys shouldn’t be playing that music,” or “this doesn’t make any sense.”

Coming into a show do you have something you want the audience to take away from it?

Mainly, it’s very different from the album. It’s very different from the videos. I think already we’ve grown a lot from being on the road and seeing what our songs can do. It’s been this really organic show. I don’t know if theres anything to take away. We just love it when people are coming up to us and saying that was not what they expected. It’s a pretty fun live show. It’s really exciting for us to play. Also we have a new song on the set that we’re doing. So we’re already trying to figure out what our next album is going to be.

Have you started recording the new album?

We’re sampling. Once we’re back we’re going to sit down with different people, even ourselves, and see what it looks like and start recoding immediately.

Is there a sense if it will sound like the first album?

I think there’s going to be a lot of transition. The song “Beetle”—if you come to the show—what that is, is a great example of the direction we’re heading into. There’s definitely some folk elements to it but I feel like now being on tour and sharing the stage with all of these people. The songs on the album [we’re written] and the music came afterwords. “Beetle” is definitely a great representation is what our band is slowly becoming. It’s a lot more jammier. I think there’s a lot more room for other instruments to breath. It will have more of those elements than the folk-americana stuff. Also I think we’re going to be writing stories about other people because when we’ve been touring we’ve hearing so many other people talk about what the music is for them and hearing their stories, and hearing about their families, I think that will be a lot more of the lyrical material for the next album.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

The post KRUI.FM Exclusive with Run River North appeared first on KRUI Radio.

Three of the most well respected fashion houses in the business had a changing of the guard recently. Nina Ricci, Oscar de la Renta, & Maison Martin Margiela all landed new creative directors since the conclusion of Paris Fashion Week in early October.

On Tuesday October 7, Guillaume Henry was welcomed to the Nina Ricci family as the successor to Peter Copping. Best known for his role in Carven’s ready-to-wear line for almost six years, the French born stylist will bring his impressive track record (which includes the nod of approval from Anna Wintour) to the reconstruction of an already well established couture line. Henry did his formal training at Institut Français de la Mode, and worked on a design team that presented an anonymous collection at Givenchy that preceded Riccardo Tisci’s appointment to the house in 2005. So where does this leave Peter Copping?

Last Monday, Alex Bolen, chief executive for Oscar de la Renta, announced that Copping will be taking over as creative director for all the label’s endeavors. These include ready-to-wear, accessories, bridal and home décor. Copping’s work at Nina Ricci—an incredibly feminine driven house—will translate well to a brand whose backbone consists of elaborate gowns and evening wear.

This news must come as great relief to the 82-year-old, de la Renta, due to a history ridden with difficult transition between artists. Most recently in 2013 John Galliano unsuccessfully led a month long campaign at de la Renta. Copping seems to be a much better fit seeing as his artistic vision aligns with a more classic style, while Galliano is known for the dramatic. An attribute that makes Galliano a perfect fit for Margiela.

After much speculation it was officially announced on October 6 that Galliano, the former Dior designer, was in fact returning to the industry as creative director for Maison Martin Margiela. A move that is much more fitting for Galliano’s flamboyant personalty and artistic style.

The house behind Kanye West’s arsenal of diamond encrusted performance masks and mysteriously transparent studios just became exponentially more illustrious. During his 15 years at Dior, Galliano’s shows became the most anticipated spectacle of fashion week. While Margiela shows have been performances in themselves, the combination of the label’s theatrics and Galliano’s larger-than-life personality will surely make the Margiela runway ticket a hot commodity come Fashion Week in February.

With these three major changes happening in such a short period of time, it will be interesting to see how these decisions pan out in the long run. With Henry’s first leadership experience at a world-renowned house, Copping’s relocation, and Galliano’s inexplicable talent to attract attention, one thing is for sure, February will be entertaining.

The post Swank Scoop: Creative Director Musical Chairs appeared first on KRUI Radio.

It’s now time to reflect on the final leg of the four-stop tour dubbed “fashion-month” by the business’ fanatics. Per annual custom, the procession of high fashion and ready-to-wear ensembles concluded in Paris, where some of the most influential houses in the industry call the city home. If you’re eager to explore the latest trends, you might want to check out a sorority shirts online store for unique styles.

So what did we learn from the last seven days? Unfortunately, not really anything new.

Many major houses displayed collections that seemed regurgitated and limiting. Céline’s practical but luxurious display of floral dresses, trimmed coats and detailed accessories was a pleasant visual. However, remove the winged-tip eyeliner that appeared across a wide range of runways (Givenchy and Dries Van Noten to name a few) and you might have needed a double take to make sure it wasn’t 2012, still. It wasn’t just Céline that stayed inside the box this season.

Margiela’s usual mismatched patterns, Alexander McQueen’s inventive but somehow unoriginal urbanization and Miu Miu’s Prada-gone-bad attitude all seemed creatively unfulfilled.

One spectacular that didn’t lack at all of these shows, was the atmosphere. Along side a star studded front rows and illustrious architectural backdrops the clothes seemed almost unimportant. Maybe the theatrics were an industry ploy to distract the show goers from the unoriginal couture? Not a terrible conspiracy.

While the designs might not have been anything special, Karl Lagerfeld took to the streets (literally) for his Chanel show and proved two things this year. First, Chanel can do color! The house that uses “simplicity” interchangeably with “elegance” finally contorted itself into a palette of bright colors, patterns, and even politics! Yes, in a bold statement Kaiser Karl himself took to the streets to stage a feminist protest. Led by Cara Delevinge, dressed in their runway outfits, the Chanel girls walked the runway with picket signs displaying messages of “He For She,” and “Boys Should Get Pregnant Too.” While this political stance was an attention grabber for some, it still seamed like a slight ruse to distract us from a not so tantalizing display of mismatched prints and power suits.

Fear not however, for there is a light at the end of the dimly lit catwalk!

Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli for Valentino and Rick Owens, at his own label, concocted two rather inventive collections. Resemblant of the 18th century Grand Tour mystique, Valentino’s spread emphasized fine detailing and prints as typical of the house. However, the incorporation of Egyptian sandals and an ocean theme rich with corals, starfish and sea shells, along with beaded embroidering, placed this 79 piece collection at the helm of the seasons designs. 

Rick Owens showed similar grandeur, branching out from his typical hit list. Known for loud music and intensity, Owens took a deep breath on the Paris runway displaying his elegant tulle dresses to the tune of Lento’s “Fantasy in C Major.” Embellished in angular geometry with accents of leather and wool, the urban color palette radiated prowess and confidence.

Anther facet to fashion week is always the exceptional street wear that graces the front row. While most of the time it’s just pleasant to flip through the look-books created by major magazines, we can also take a few style tips from the pros. The most prominent trend this year was skirts and high-tops. It just works! With combat boots and Knee Length Dresses dominating college campus fall fashion this year, it might be a nice alternative on the slightly warmer day. Besides, who doesn’t feel like they can take on the world in a fresh pair of Nikes. Why not look classy while you do it?

Back to the designs! Okay. So the inventiveness wasn’t entirely there from the designers this season. But in arguably one of the most rapidly evolving industries in the world, you can be certain come February there will be an entirely new set of textiles, embroidering, and colors to dissect. And of course, I’ll be here to bring you the lab results.

The post Swank Scoop: What We Learned at Paris Fashion Week appeared first on KRUI Radio.

Amos Lee brought his electrifying “Rivers of Song Tour” to the Englert Theatre Friday night. Throughout the tour, one dollar of every ticket is being donated to “Musicians on Call,” a non-profit organization that brings live and recorded music to the besides of patients in the hospital. Lee tells me that, “this is something that I started doing a while ago and it brings such joy to me knowing that we as musicians can bring happiness to people that struggle with so many different kinds of challenges.”

Long time friend and musical partner Priscilla Ahn is supporting Lee on his “Rivers of Song Tour.” Opening her set with a self harmonizing rendition of “I Think I’m Ready to Love You,” an insecure Priscilla Ahn overcame nerves to grace the stage with her powerful voice. Performing hits like “Dream,” and “Living in a Tree,” a song off her 2012 album Home: My Song Diary, detailing her life long aspirations of saving a tree in mortal peril, her raw vocal talent broke through her initial shyness, propelling her forward. 

Channeling her inner Kate Nash, Ahn closed the set with the never before recorded, “The Boobs Song.” Contextualizing it for the Iowa City crowd, she told a story of how inspiration struck after reading a note from her now husband’s ex-girlfriend in a collection of Robert Frost poems that read, “enjoy these poems, I hope they remind you of my boobs.” This quirky anecdote is a summation of the awkward charm Ahn’s opening set embodied.

Following a brief intermission, Amos Lee arose from a purple mist, equipped with wayfarers, tea and a six string guitar. Entertaining the crowd with his folk, blues melodies, Lee reached far and wide for content. Going back almost ten years to his self titled debut album with “Bottom of the Barrel,” and “Keep it Loose, Keep it Tight,” as well as leaping ahead to his latest release with the track “Tricksters, Hucksters, and Scamps.” Lee’s set was the epitome of a timeless artist showcasing his diverse musical talent.

Surrounding himself with incredible musicians is something that Amos Lee has always done and Friday night was no different. Half way through the night he brought Priscilla Ahn back out to perform a duet of “Black River.” Then, following the crowd pleasing “Won’t Let Me Go,” Lee’s bandmate and lead saxophone player Zach Djanikian’s performed an extraordinary cover of Frank Ocean’s “Thinkin Bout You.”

When asked to comment on working with such talented artists, Lee said, “I just want to be around people who believe in what I do. I’ve been very fortunate to have such great support.” Lee closed the night with “Street Corner Preacher,” a song off of his 2008 album Last Days at the Lodge, a blues tune worthy of concluding a rivetingly eclectic night of music.

To find out more about Amos Lee or to hear more of his music, you can visit his website.

The post Show Review: Amos Lee @ The Englert Theatre 9/26/14 appeared first on KRUI Radio.