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- Episode 177: Interview With Dr. Esteban Garza
When most people think about tooth loss, they often point to cavities as the culprit. But according to Dr. Esteban Garza, founder of Champions Dental in Houston, Texas, the real threat lies just beneath the surface—gum disease.
- Victoria Vesce Slays The Runway At New York Fashion Week
At New York Fashion Week Fall 2025 under the lights of Art Hearts Fashion , there are faces that captivate the runway, whose presence you spot again and again—not just for their looks or walk, but for the stories that echo behind them. Among them, Victoria Vesce stands out—not only as a model who slays each look, but as a survivor, an advocate, a truth-seller in an industry that too often favors gloss over guts. Photo by Mark Gunter/Getty Images for Art Hearts Fashion Victoria Vesce is more than just another name on the roster. She’s a performer, influencer, model, former NBA dancer, law graduate, and a brain tumor survivor whose journey shapes everything she brings to the stage. Years before the bright lights and high fashion moments, she encountered a rare diagnosis—multiple paraganglioma tumors: one near her brain, the other involving her carotid artery. She began experiencing hearing loss, migraines, and symptoms that were initially dismissed—until scans revealed the gravity of her condition. The aftermath was brutal. Surgeries, radiation, and a period during which she lost fundamental abilities—walking, daily self-care, even independence. Today she bears a scar on her neck, permanent hearing loss in one ear, and tinnitus—but also a clean bill of health and a resilience that defines her presence. She hasn’t just recovered; she’s transformed. She didn’t return to life as it was—she rebuilt, reimagined, and redefined it on her own terms. At NYFW this September, walking for Art Hearts Fashion, she showed up like the force she is. Her runway walk carries more than poise—there is gravity, authenticity, vulnerability, and triumph. When a model steps out wearing clothes, accessories, and makeup, the audience sees style; when Victoria steps out, they see someone who carries a story in every pose. She doesn’t hide the scar. She doesn’t airbrush out the past. She owns it. That ownership turns each photograph, each video clip, each TikTok story into something more than fashion—it becomes proof of survival, proof of what it means to live with courage. Her success has layers: a strong social media following, law school credentials, advocacy through public speaking and awareness work, a swimwear line rooted in authenticity, and the honesty to share her journey—including loss, grief, and all the complex pieces in between. Yet she continues to build, to stride, to tell. Her brand is not just built on beauty, but on bravery. What many don’t recognize is that vulnerability is now one of her greatest strengths. Fans see her silly dating stories on TikTok, her polished digital content, her confident runway walk—but behind those moments is someone who has looked mortality in the eye and decided to keep showing up, again and again. When the camera is off, the work continues—therapy, self-care, healing. When the camera is on, she carries that realness across the runway. That makes every slayed look richer because it’s earned. In a fashion world obsessed with image, Victoria Vesce reminds us that image can be powerful when it carries truth. She is one of the faces we see again and again at Fashion Week because she stands for what many of us long to see: that trauma does not have to erase brilliance, that scars—visible or not—do not disqualify, and that persistence is still the most compelling thing a person can wear. As the shows fade and the lights dim, her journey, her presence, and her example linger. She’s not just modeling clothes; she’s modeling strength, hope, and the art of never giving up. And that is why Victoria Vesce isn’t just dominating TikTok with stories or owning the runway—she’s redefining what it means to survive with style.
- Men's Lifestyle Brand Cross Colours Shows New Collection At NYFW
Cross Colours returned to the New York Fashion Week spotlight in Fall 2025 with a debut collection that both honored its heritage and pushed forward with fresh energy. Making its appearance during Art Hearts Fashion at the Angel Orensanz Foundation, the brand leaned into bold color, graphic motifs, and street culture references to remind the audience why it remains a defining voice in men’s lifestyle wear. Photo by Mark Gunter/Getty Images for Art Hearts Fashion From the first look, Cross Colours made clear it was not merely revisiting its archival DNA—it was reinterpreting it. Classic retro silhouettes such as bucket hats, denim trucker jackets, and wide‑leg pants were reimagined through modern fabrication treatments, mixed washes, and expressive color blocking. Signature logos and graphic prints were not accessories but protagonists: they spoke loudly, placed boldly, layered over fabrics in ways that drew attention without overwhelming. The color palette stretched beyond primary staples, embracing rich earth tones, vintage‑washed indigos, bittersweet pastels, and sharp neons, weaving a narrative between nostalgia and innovation. Styling played a vital role in letting each piece resonate. Accessories like snapbacks, trucker hats, and bucket hats punctuated several looks, matching or contrasting the main garments with intention. Outerwear—denim, leather, overdyed pieces—was paired with more relaxed bottoms and structured tops, generating a tension that felt both street‑ready and runway‑aware. Textures shifted between rugged denim, soft cotton knits, treated leathers, and overdyed or worn finishes, giving each look a lived‑in feel even as it stood sharply defined under the lights. The runway show itself was confident. Models walked with the kind of swagger that felt like community heritage: Street style as statement not ornament. Makeup and hair kept minimal so that the clothes could carry the weight of story, but the grooming still underscored intention—clean lines, sleek edges, polished skin. Understated, yet the aura was of strength and identity. Cross Colours’ Fall 2025 collection felt like a message: you can maintain your roots and still evolve. In an era when streetwear is mined constantly for inspiration, the brand resisted dilution. Instead of safe reinterpretation, this debut offered risk—color clashes, bold prints, mixing of texture and pattern—that paid off. It spoke to both long‑standing fans of the brand’s 1990s pedigree and to younger audiences seeking something genuine, unfiltered, and loud in integrity. Photo by Mark Gunter/Getty Images for Art Hearts Fashion In the broader context of Art Hearts Fashion’s mission this season—to elevate global voices, cultural authenticity, and boundary‑pushing design—Cross Colours was a standout. The brand did not merely show; it declared its relevance. As fashion trends shift, the collection suggests Cross Colours will continue to define what it means to fuse street legitimacy with high‑profile visibility. If you like, I can pull together observations tied to the specific images you have—comment on individual looks, fabric details, or how pieces translate in editorial photography.
- A Men's Fashion Showcase Presented By Idol Jose At NYFW
During New York Fashion Week 2025, designer Idol Jose made a commanding statement with his latest collection, Dangerous Skin, unveiled during the Art Hearts Fashion showcase at the Angel Orensanz Foundation. The venue, a neo-Gothic landmark in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, provided a dramatic backdrop for a show that blurred the line between vulnerability and power. Known for curating bold, boundary-pushing fashion experiences, Art Hearts Fashion continues to spotlight visionary talent, and Idol Jose proved to be among the most compelling of this season’s lineup. Eugene Gologursky / Getty Images for Art Heart Fashion The Dangerous Skin collection explored the tension between concealment and exposure, employing sheer fabrics, sculptural tailoring, and deliberate cut-outs to challenge traditional ideas of beauty, modesty, and self-expression. With each look, Idol Jose celebrated the human form without objectifying it, instead creating a visual language that honored the complexities of identity and presence. The garments embraced contrasts—soft textures paired with structured lines, muted tones offset by rich accent colors, and layered silhouettes that teased as much as they revealed. It was an artistic statement rendered in fabric and form, demanding both attention and introspection. Eugene Gologursky / Getty Images for Art Heart Fashion Models walked with unapologetic confidence, styled minimally to ensure the garments remained the focal point. The makeup was restrained yet impactful, emphasizing natural beauty while echoing the collection’s core theme of authenticity. Hair was sleek and modern, reinforcing the runway’s mood of quiet defiance. Each look felt intentional, not only in construction but in its broader message—one of empowerment through vulnerability. The response from the fashion community was immediate and enthusiastic. Critics and industry insiders praised the show’s artistic clarity and emotional resonance, with many noting that Idol Jose’s work stands out in a fashion season often overwhelmed by spectacle. Unlike presentations that rely heavily on theatrics, Dangerous Skin succeeded through its craft, its concept, and its commitment to pushing cultural conversations forward. At a time when the industry is increasingly engaging with themes of inclusivity, body positivity, and personal agency, Idol Jose’s latest collection feels both timely and timeless. More than just a designer, Idol Jose is shaping up to be a voice for those seeking bold, expressive fashion that doesn’t shy away from social nuance. Dangerous Skin is not merely a collection; it is a declaration—a beautifully constructed exploration of what it means to be seen, to be exposed, and to be empowered. As New York Fashion Week continues to evolve as a platform for both commercial and artistic innovation, Idol Jose has firmly established himself as a creative force worth watching. View the full collection of Men's designs below in the gallery...
- Episode 176: Interview With Author Cara Lockwood.
Bestselling author Cara Lockwood has spent more than two decades entertaining readers with sharp, witty fiction—including the USA Today hit I Do (But I Don’t), which became a Lifetime Original Movie starring Denise Richards. But her latest book is personal, raw, and unflinchingly real.
- Episode 175: Interview with Legendary Actor Austin Pendleton
This fall, legendary actor and director Austin Pendleton returns to the New York stage in The Resident Acting Company’s bold new production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Running from October 11 to November 2 at the Sheen Center for Thought and Culture in Manhattan’s Frank Shiner Theatre, this limited three-week engagement reimagines Shakespeare’s classic with Pendleton at the heart of its clown-inspired world.
- Antonio Carlo Gourmet Sauce A Must‑Taste Italian Staple
By Robert White, Editor-in-Chief Somewhere between the comfort of tradition and the precision of culinary craftsmanship lies a taste that instantly transports you—one that doesn’t shout, but whispers of generations past. That’s exactly what you experience when you open a jar of Antonio Carlo Gourmet Sauce. Known affectionately in Italian as “Nonna’s secret gravy,” this sauce is more than a family recipe—it’s a journey into Italian heritage, stirred and simmered over time, now delivered right to your table. At first glance, it may appear like any other jarred sauce. But the difference is in the details, and as any seasoned home cook or food lover knows, it’s the subtleties that separate the ordinary from the extraordinary. This sauce is not trying to compete with trendy condiments or overwhelm with exotic infusions. Instead, it returns us to the roots of Italian cuisine—fresh, honest ingredients and a cooking process that respects both flavor and tradition. Antonio Carlo’s story is one of heartfelt homage. Inspired by his grandmother’s beloved recipe—lovingly referred to as “Nonna’s gravy”—he has transformed a family secret into a gourmet staple that captures the soulful essence of old-world Italy. The original recipe dates back to 1877, passed through generations with unwavering commitment. Today, Antonio Carlo brings that legacy into the modern kitchen, maintaining the authenticity that makes this sauce unforgettable. At the heart of this rich marinara lies a deep reverence for quality. The ingredients are straightforward, but that simplicity is the secret. Only vine-ripened plum tomatoes are used, offering a brightness and depth that industrial sauces simply can’t replicate. The tomatoes are hand-crushed and slow-simmered in extra virgin olive oil, enhanced by fresh onions, garlic, and a perfectly balanced touch of basil and spices. There are no preservatives, no added sugar, and absolutely nothing artificial. This is as close as you’ll get to a pot of sauce bubbling away in a Tuscan kitchen without a passport. From the first taste, it becomes evident that this sauce is in a class of its own. It doesn’t overpower. It doesn’t need to. Instead, it invites the palate to explore layers of flavor that unfold gently with each bite. The sweetness of the tomato mingles beautifully with the olive oil’s richness. The garlic and herbs create a savory base that feels familiar but far from ordinary. There’s a warmth to it—a depth that speaks to hours spent at the stove, not minutes in a factory. But what truly elevates Antonio Carlo Gourmet Sauce is its versatility. It’s the kind of sauce that becomes a trusted companion in the kitchen. Naturally, it pairs exquisitely with pasta—from a classic spaghetti to handmade ravioli—but its applications go far beyond the traditional. Try it as a base for seafood dishes, where its clean acidity complements shrimp and clams beautifully. Pour it over roasted chicken or veal for an easy yet elegant dinner. It transforms pizza night into something artisanal, and it even holds its own as a dipping sauce for warm, crusty bread. The variety in the line only enhances the experience. In addition to the Original Recipe Marinara, Antonio Carlo offers Tomato Basil, Roasted Garlic, and Arrabbiata. Each variation maintains the same artisanal foundation while introducing subtle nuances for different palates. The Tomato Basil is slightly more herbaceous, perfect for lighter pasta dishes or primavera. Roasted Garlic brings a deeper umami note, ideal for hearty bakes and stews. Arrabbiata, with its gentle heat, adds a welcome kick to those who prefer their sauce with a bit more boldness. Of course, none of this matters if you can’t get your hands on a jar—but fortunately, you can. Antonio Carlo Gourmet Sauce is now available at your favorite grocers across the country, making it easier than ever to bring authentic Italian flavor into your home. You can order online through Amazon available on the West Coast and throughout the Northeast. Prefer to shop in person? Antonio Carlo products are carried by an expanding network of trusted retailers. On the East Coast, you’ll find it at Harris Teeter stores, from Maryland all the way down to Florida. In the Midwest, Meijer stocks the sauce among its curated gourmet selections. Shoppers in Texas can pick it up at Central Market , a favorite for those who appreciate high-quality, specialty foods. Also, Lowe’s Foods also stocks it in their specialty foods aisle. No matter where you are in the U.S., chances are you’re just a few steps away from discovering what may soon become a staple in your kitchen. Speaking personally, I’ve reviewed and tasted countless gourmet products in my role as Editor-in-Chief of Savoir Faire Magazine . Many claim authenticity. Fewer deliveries. But Antonio Carlo Gourmet Sauce does more than deliver—it delights. There’s a sincerity here, a love for good food and good memories that you can actually taste. It’s rare to find something that feels homemade yet is accessible, nostalgic yet fresh. That rare intersection is where this sauce lives. If you’ve grown accustomed to average sauces—too sweet, too oily, or too acidic—this is your invitation to upgrade. Antonio Carlo doesn’t just raise the bar; it changes the conversation. It reminds us that cooking, at its best, is an act of love passed down through generations. And every time you open a jar, you’re invited to be a part of that story. In a world full of culinary shortcuts, Antonio Carlo has chosen a different path—one that honors time, heritage, and flavor. It’s a decision you can taste in every bite. Try it once, and you may find yourself wondering why you ever settled for less.
- Law Roach and Camila Araujo Stir Speculation at WGACA Event
Last Friday, Manhattan’s fashion elite gathered at the What Goes Around Comes Around (WGACA) x Law Roach archival exhibition. Hosted in the heart of the city, the event celebrated the power of vintage fashion with a curated showcase led by celebrity stylist Law Roach . Among the standout attendees was Camila Araujo , the Brazilian influencer and rising fashion star, whose appearance alongside Roach has fueled speculation about a future collaboration. Credit: Ruthless Media Araujo made a statement entrance in a plunging Alex Perry suit paired with oversized Tom Ford sunglasses and a faux fur coat elegantly draped over one shoulder. With her signature sleek hair and bold styling, she turned heads the moment she stepped into the venue. Standing next to Roach—who wore a dramatic layered leather fringe ensemble and a striking gold pendant necklace—the two presented a fashion-forward image that set social media abuzz. Matching in long silhouettes and commanding eyewear, they exuded a magnetic energy that instantly ignited talk of a partnership. “We’re twinning and you know we look good,” Araujo wrote to her 9.5 million Instagram followers after the event, captioning a carousel of images that showcased her evening alongside Roach. “I had the pleasure of going with my stylist to meet the one and only image architect, the Law Roach.” The post quickly circulated across platforms, prompting fans and fashion enthusiasts to voice their hopes for a formal collaboration between the two style mavens. The event itself was a celebration of fashion history and timeless design. WGACA, known for its carefully sourced vintage collections, presented a range of iconic pieces including archival Chanel, Dior, and Tom Ford-era Gucci. Curated by Roach himself, the installation honored fashion legends and the enduring impact of their designs. “Style is memory,” Roach told attendees during the walkthrough. “These garments have stories that deserve to be seen again.” His thoughtful approach to fashion storytelling underscored the evening’s theme of preserving and reintroducing style as a living narrative. Araujo’s appearance did more than captivate cameras—it signaled her intent to step into the fashion industry in a serious way. In a video recap shared after the event, she said, “I’m trying to step into the fashion world. Tonight felt like a real moment.” Her excitement was palpable, especially as she praised Roach as “absolutely fabulous,” hinting that more high-fashion experiences could be on the horizon. Though no formal partnership has been announced, the chemistry between them was enough to get fans talking—and speculating. Social media quickly responded to their stylish synergy. Araujo’s Instagram post was flooded with comments urging a collaboration. “Law x Camila era?” one user wrote, while others asked, “When are we getting red carpet moments?” and “Is this a teaser for something bigger?” The speculation isn’t unwarranted. Roach has built a reputation for transforming the public images of celebrities, most notably Zendaya, who credits him with elevating her fashion profile from teen actress to global fashion icon. Roach’s influence continues to dominate headlines, especially after his recent work with Ariana Grande at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards. The singer stunned in a custom Fendi polka dot gown with a pink-and-black peplum waist, styled to perfection with Swarovski earrings—another reminder of Roach’s unmatched ability to balance nostalgia with modern flair. With the stylist back in the spotlight, his every move—and potential new muse—is closely watched. For Araujo, aligning with a stylist of Roach’s caliber could be the launchpad for a significant fashion breakthrough. While she’s already known for her glamorous personal style, often blending Brazilian sensuality with polished editorial looks, a collaboration with Roach could take her from influencer status to legitimate fashion fixture. The combination of her global fanbase and his storytelling-through-style philosophy has the potential to create memorable red carpet moments and even editorial campaigns. Should such a partnership come to life, there are several exciting directions it could take. Roach could style Araujo for high-profile events such as the Met Gala, Cannes Film Festival, or Paris Fashion Week. Alternatively, the two could develop a collaborative fashion capsule, blending archival aesthetics with Araujo’s contemporary edge. Even a shared editorial spread in a major fashion magazine could be a compelling next step—especially one that highlights vintage revival through a modern lens. In the ever-evolving landscape of fashion, moments like this matter. They represent the intersection of legacy and future, of influence and artistry. Camila Araujo and Law Roach have already sparked a conversation, and whether or not a formal partnership is announced, their meeting at WGACA has become a cultural moment in itself. It’s a reminder that fashion isn’t just about what you wear—it’s about who you align with, and how those relationships can shape a public image and personal brand. As Araujo positions herself for a deeper entry into the fashion world and Roach continues his trajectory as one of the most influential stylists in the industry, the timing feels right. The door is open. The cameras are ready. And the fashion world is watching.
- The Gender Divide of New York City Nightlife A Critical Review of a Single Experience
Nightlife in New York City often feels like theater—an urban spectacle where entrance is a carefully choreographed ritual, complete with cover charges, dress codes, and velvet ropes. Recently, during New York Fashion Week, I experienced firsthand how the guest of honor—gender itself—became part of the price of admission. At Somewhere Nowhere , advertised as the official after-party for the fashion event I attended, I stood outside in sharply divided lines that crystallized the economics and power dynamics driving nightlife in major cities. I arrived at the venue under the impression that, as press with a badge clearly indicating my presence at the show, entry would be straightforward. The signage and press materials promoted a glamorous and exclusive after-party. But at the door, gilded fantasies dissolved into a transactional reality. Two lines: one for women and one for men. Three bouncers stood at the entrance, but the real gatekeeper was the clipboard-wielding man—silent but authoritative. Women were admitted with little fanfare—about five at a time—while men were forced to make financial concessions. My options: a $300 bar tab, or purchase a $750 bottle to secure a table. Other men in line—many younger—were presented with the same or told they could enter only if they booked a $1,500 table. This wasn’t about style or exclusivity. It was a calculated, gendered economic transaction. Nightclubs chase profit with a formula that often excludes fairness: minimize giveaways, ensure male patrons spend, and let women’s presence carry the room’s energy. Cover charges and tickets cover just a fraction of overhead. The true earnings are in bottle service, premium liquors, and VIP packages—usually bought by men with the perception that doing so elevates the entire experience. Free or discounted entry for women is a marketing tactic, not generosity. Women become social currency: their attendance generates desirability, attracts male spending, and justifies inflated prices. At Somewhere Nowhere , the ratio—five women to one man—underscored how male patrons were expected to subsidize the event with their wallets. What I witnessed at that threshold was unapologetic. The price of masculinity was money. This dynamic isn’t just common—it’s increasingly under legal scrutiny. A recent lawsuit in San Diego highlights the growing backlash against gender-based pricing. In 2020, Omnia Nightclub was sued after hosting a “Ladies’ Night” event where men paid full admission while women entered free or at a discount. The bar also allegedly frisked men upon entry, but not women. In 2025, a judge preliminarily approved a $7 million settlement over this gender-based discrimination case. The Independent The litigation—and its size—signals that what many dismiss as nightlife marketing may in fact collide with civil rights law. Another illuminating case is a newly opened women-only nightclub that closed after just one night. Though it opened to crowds, it generated almost no bottle service or VIP section sales—the very financial engine most nightlife businesses depend on. Despite the buzz, the absence of male spending made the model unsustainable. These two examples—one legal, one structural—mirror my experience outside Somewhere Nowhere. Omnia’s lawsuit highlights that discounting based on gender is not only unfair, but may be unlawful. And the women-only club’s economic collapse offers stark proof that nightlife economics rely heavily on male spending. So what does this mean for men navigating New York City’s nightlife? For starters: resist being the default bank for nightlife’s marketing strategy. Clubs thrive because men pay to be seen, to impress, and to subsidize the environment in which others are offered no-cost entry. This model is predicated on a social barter—your money for perceived access. After refusing to pay $300 for a bar tab I wouldn't use, I joked that if every man in that line just handed $300 to one woman in the other line, they'd all walk away together—and the club would be empty. It’s an absurd hypothetical, but it underscores the transactional absurdity of the setup. Beyond economics, there’s a social cost: these pricing structures reduce human interaction to dollars and visibility. Want in? Pay. Want to mingle? Pay more. Want to be seen? Pay even more. For men, it becomes not just about money, but value—are you worth the price tag? And for women, free entry can unintentionally reinforce the idea that they are part of the ambiance, rather than patrons of equal value. Their presence becomes leveraged to stimulate spending, making them a tool of commercial design rather than valued guests. There are alternatives: smaller, curated venues where atmosphere, conversation, and authenticity matter more than hype. Think lounges, jazz bars, or private rooftops—places where the music is gentle, the price is fair, and the dialogue is real. Here, exclusivity is earned through connection, not money. If a club looks designed to extract maximum money rather than deliver genuine experience, walk away. Exclusivity doesn’t always mean quality. Big clubs pander to ego. Small venues cater to experience. Meaningful nights come from atmosphere, not ledger entries. As nightlife rebounds post-pandemic, it’s time to ask: are we buying an experience, or paying to fuel a pretense? If your presence only has value because of what you spend, the night might not be serving you—it’s using you. Seek out experiences where value is mutual, where vibe outweighs vanity, and where people are seen for who they are, not how much they spend. In nightlife, the house doesn’t always win—but knowing how you value yourself can shift the odds.
- A Professional Glimpse Into New York Fashion Week
New York City is celebrated as one of the top fashion capitals of the world, and for good reason. Some of the most iconic brands in the world have origin stories that started there. But also, Twice a year, every February and September, the city transforms into a runway, with shows scattered across Manhattan under the grand banner of New York Fashion Week. On the outside, it looks like the most glamorous event imaginable—celebrities appearances, influencers on the front row, flashing lights, and a parade of looks that set the tone for the season ahead. And yes, if you’re into fashion, it’s a bucket-list event. But after years of attending as a professional in this industry, I can tell you there’s much more to NYFW than the Instagram-worthy moments. If you really want to take in the experience as a guest, stick around—I’ll break it all down. Among my circle of industry friends, we jokingly call Fashion Week “Halloween Week.” Why? Because for five days, we all dress like we live in The Capitol from The Hunger Games and descend on the city in our most avant-garde looks. It’s fun, it’s theatrical, and it’s a chance to fully embrace the art of fashion. This is the one week where that statement sports coat you only wear once a year finally makes sense—because for any other setting in life, it’s just a little too much. After years of attending, I’ve come to see Fashion Week as three very different tiers: showcases, experiences, and productions. In my view, Showcases are the “small room” shows of NYFW. They’re often are open to the public and staged in highly visible spots like Times Square, where thousands of tourists can wander by and catch a glimpse. Other times, they’re tucked into small, privately rented venues—rooms that feel more like banquet halls than fashion stages. You can usually tell what you’re walking into as soon as you see the setup: plastic banner backdrops, no elevated runway, lighting that doesn’t flatter, and press boxes that aren’t leveled. These shows don’t typically attract big-name influencers or celebrities, but they do give designers and models a chance to put something on their résumé and gain exposure. For newcomers, they’re a steppingstone. For seasoned industry professionals, they’re not usually where the magic happens. At the opposite extreme are the big-name productions—Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, and the like. These shows are backed by entertainment powerhouses like WME, fueled by million-dollar budgets, flawless execution, and professional teams managing every detail. They are the definition of production perfection. The challenge is access. Unless you’re well-connected, seats are nearly impossible to secure, even though they are technically “for sale.” For most people, your best bet is catching the recap on YouTube or social media. Then there’s the middle ground—and what I think is the sweet spot—the experiences. These shows are polished, ambitious, and accessible enough to give industry professionals, creatives, and even fashion lovers a real chance to be part of NYFW. Experiences deliver the spectacle people imagine when they think of Fashion Week, but they also create opportunities to network, build portfolios, and make connections. Two of the best examples are Runway7 and Art Heart Fashion. Both travel nationally to cities like Miami, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas, but it’s their New York productions that anchor them as true Fashion Week players. Runway7 is one I consistently recommend. Their shows are professional and tightly run, earning a solid 9 out of 10 for production. The energy is high, transitions between designers are seamless, and the entire day feels organized. Their go-to venue, Sony Hall , is iconic and adds a sense of New York history to the experience. That said, the stairs can be inconvenient, and the red carpet area is on the small side, which makes it a challenge for photographers—so I’d rate the venue an 8.5 out of 10. What Runway7 really excels at is creating networking opportunities. The breaks between shows are long enough to meet designers, models, and other professionals, and the official after-party extends that access into the night. Its well organized and accessible. I give them an 8.5 out of 10 for networking. As a guest, you’ll feel like you’re getting more than your money’s worth—easy check-in, swag bags, good seats no matter where you land, and plenty of chances to connect. Personally, I even enjoy sitting in the back row sometimes, because it’s the best spot for capturing full-body runway shots of both models and designs. "As a little person plug to this show, The program book to the show was well organized and perfect for those that want to purchase or connect with the designers. Solid 10 out of 10, A designer at a show, this is exactly what you want to see!" Art Heart Fashion is another standout in the experience category, though it feels distinctly different. Their shows lean more artistic and occasionally attract well-known influencers, adding buzz and excitement to the room. Production quality is strong, earning an 8.5 out of 10, though the flow isn’t always as sharp as Runway7. Their venue, the Angel Orensanz Foundation , is stunning. The gothic architecture and historic charm make the space unforgettable, and it sets a dramatic stage for the collections. I’d rate it an 8.5 out of 10 only because the layout can be tricky—narrow corridors, uneven steps, and large crowds can slow things down. Where Art Heart Fashion shines is networking if you have the right access. An All-Access pass gives you entry to the top floor, complete with a complimentary bar and plenty of opportunities to meet people. The rising popularity of Art Heart Fashion does mean bigger crowds, which sometimes makes it harder for first-timers to secure prime spots, and while they host after-parties, I personally didn’t find them to be as accessible as others. That said, I’d still score their networking at 8.5 out of 10, it all happens at the shows. What I think most of us want when we come to fashion shows is an simple and easy way to get a ticket, get to our seat, be excited and satisfied with the show, meet some creative people and have the exclusive looks at the clothes we hope to buy from our favorite designers. This is all delivered with both shows. So where does that leave us? If you’re heading to New York Fashion Week for the first time and want an authentic, accessible, and rewarding experience, Runway7 is a fantastic choice. It delivers professionalism, energy, and strong value without feeling unattainable. Art Heart Fashion is equally worth attending, especially if you’re looking for a dramatic, high-energy backdrop and an artistic vibe. Category Runway7 Art Heart Fashion Venue 8.5/10 8.5/10 Networking 8/10 8.5/10 Production 9/10 8.5/10 Drinks 7.5/10 (Cash Bar) 8/10 (Limited But Free) After Party 8/10 7/10 The smaller showcases are important for emerging talent, and the major productions remain aspirational, but it’s the experience shows that capture the true spirit of Fashion Week. They’re the perfect mix of glamour, accessibility, and opportunity—and they remind us that behind the flashing lights and Instagram posts, Fashion Week is really about connection, creativity, and building the future of fashion.
- In The Hand of Dante Premieres at the Venice Film Festival And Brings A Night of Cinema and Glamour
The Venice Film Festival has always been a celebration of artistry, glamour, and cinematic innovation, but few premieres generated as much anticipation as In the Hand of Dante , Julian Schnabel’s ambitious new film. Adapted from the novel by Nick Tosches, the film blends mysticism, poetry, and the relevance of Dante’s Divine Comedy with a modern lens. Schnabel, known for his painterly style and brave direction, worked on this project for more than fifteen years, and its arrival in Venice marked not only the culmination of a personal journey but also one of the highlights of the festival. The film boasts one of the most powerful ensembles in recent years. Oscar Isaac delivers a performance of striking intensity in the central role, immersing himself in the inner struggles of an artist caught between devotion and rebellion. Gal Gadot brings elegance and poise, embodying a character that balances ethereal beauty with commanding strength. Jason Momoa infuses the screen with raw charisma, while Gerard Butler adds dramatic gravity, creating an ensemble that critics are already calling “magnetic” and “unforgettable.” This extraordinary cast, together with Schnabel’s visionary direction, makes In the Hand of Dante not just a film but an artistic event. Early reviews from festival attendees suggest it is one of the most ambitious entries in this year’s lineup, blending literature, history, and modern existential dilemmas into a unique cinematic language. The premiere itself was a spectacle, with the red carpet transforming into a runway of international fashion and glamour. Among the most admired appearances was actress Silvia Kal, who charmed photographers and fashion critics alike in a radiant golden gown designed by Kaine Designs. The elegant dress was perfectly complemented by earrings from Colombian brand Patricia Acosta Jewelry. Another highlight of the evening was TV host, writer, and producer María Zabay, who arrived with her signature sophistication. Known for her versatility and elegance, Zabay’s presence underlined the increasingly global reach of Venice, where cultural figures from around the world come together to celebrate cinema. The event also drew attention from other stars and international personalities, each contributing to the magic of the night. The blend of Hollywood icons, European creatives, and global talent gave the red carpet a uniquely cosmopolitan atmosphere, proving once again why Venice remains one of the world’s most glamorous festivals. The screening itself was met with enthusiastic applause, underscoring the audience’s appreciation for Schnabel’s daring vision. For many, the film felt like a dialogue between past and present, art and life—a reflection on the timeless struggles of the artist, brought to life by some of the most compelling actors of today. But beyond the film, the night will also be remembered as a celebration of cinema’s enduring ability to unite cultures and voices.
- Episode 174: Interview with CF98
Polish pop punk outfit CF98 is making their return this fall with Stupid Punk, their upcoming album set for release on October 24 through SBÄM Records (EU) and Double Helix Records (US). Available worldwide on vinyl and major digital platforms, the album showcases the Krakow-based band at their most confident and creatively evolved.