PHOTO- CHIA MESSINAFifteen years ago I walked into the studio of famed photographer Francesco Scavullo. Scavullo was the guy who discovered Brooke Shields, shot portraits of every major celeb in Hollywood and at that time was under contract to shoot every Cosmo cover - which was one of the hottest fashion magazines in the world. I was there to interview for an internship as part of my senior class requirement from F.I.T.
I was in awe from the moment I walked down the long white walled hallway that was covered with black and white portraits of the super models that dominated the fashion world. As I rounded the corner into the office, there sat Francesco. He was in his signature black from head to toe. small wire rimmed glasses and a deep darkened tan.
The whole interview was a blur. I don't know much of what was said. There were five other people in the room - for it took a small army to run the studio. All I know is I got the internship. My life would never be the same! From that moment on I was on the inside of a magical world that so few people knew about. It was a world of make believe filled with beautiful people and beautiful images. It was a business masqueraded as a fantasy. Today the goal is to make the business seem like it is a fantasy.
The years that followed my time at Scavullo Studio have been an adventure to say the least! I have been very lucky to work with some of the top designers from around the world. Thierry Mugler, Ungaro, Valentino, and Chanel to name a few. London, Milan, and Paris became homes away from home. There is a sense of re-invention with every project and for every show. My work has taken me from Istanbul to Buenos Aires and everywhere in between at one time or another. It can be as glamorous as it sounds - but it is also hard work. Hard work to keep the dream alive, and to make the fantasy translate from the runway to reality. All of us in fashion are dreamers and we are always striving for more.
Now, I want to share my experiences with you. I hope you make this site a source for information on design and style. Not just for fashion, but interior design, restaurants, travel, and anything adding to the luxury of your life. I want to help you live a Life of Style. Please come back often and share the site with your friends. I hope to see you again soon.
Jason