Isabeli Fontana is the ultimate summer beauty in this shot by Mikael Jansson - view the full series in the database.

Summer heat will not get us down! Even with the temperatures hitting astronomical heights we still want to look fresh. Before you leave town on your glam summer break take a glimpse at our selection of heatproof & beach-ready beauty goodies that will have you looking and feeling like a supermodel.

ESTEE LAUDER SUMPTUOUS TWO TONE MASCARA - If its good enough for Tom Pecheux it is good enough for us! We were front and center when the man himself previewed Estee’s latest mascara backstage at Derek Lam and now the impressive dual color formula is available everywhere. Black mascara on the top lashes and then a subtle hint of color on lower lashes to make eyes pop.

LA ROCHE POSAY ANTHELIOS  – Heavy duty protection with a gentle side – French brand La Roche Posay has got the market cornered on sun protection and their Anthelios line is a perennial favorite. We’ve mentioned Anthelios in this column before and we’re mentioning it again because quite frankly, it just works – absolute must have for the season.

BY KILIAN SOLID FRAGRANCE - Who wants to be digging around in their beach bag for a perfume or lugging around a heavy bottle? By Kilian gives you the sleekest, chicest little solid that is perfect for reapplying just a touch of fragrance. Besides, there is something decadent about wearing one of those heady Kilian scents in the middle of a heatwave – trust us on that.

SACHAJUAN OCEAN MIST - One spritz and you’ve got the kind of wavy, undone beach hair that would make Gisele jealous. Ok, maybe not jealous…but there is a reason this bright blue wonder is constantly sold out !

COR SILVER SOAP - A true beauty multi-tasker, COR’s Silver soap offers the benefits of a sunscreen, a pore minimizer, acne treatment and a makeup remover all in one. When you’re en route to your summer destination -jet-setter that you are – you want a product that does it all. COR boasts a slew of active ingredients like silver, sericin, collagen and chitosan and (perhaps more importantly) a relaxing scent and luxurious lather.

SISLEY HYDRATING LONG LASTING LIPSTICK - What to do when temperatures are climbing past 100 and you’ve got to look nice for an evening out? Swipe on a glam bright shade from Sisley and you’re good to go!

AESOP SAGE & ZINC FACIAL HYDRATING CREAM - A natural take on sun protection Aesop that is perfect for girls (and guys) on the go – slather it on before your morning commute for UV protection.

NEST FRAGRANCES MOSS & MINT SHOWER GEL - Our fave niche candle line branches out with a line of sweetly scented shower gels – all of which are wonderful, but Moss & Mint holds a special place in our hearts this summer. The bracing blend of mint, apple blossom and oakmoss provides the perfect R&R for the overheated, parched and just plain burned out.

MAKEUP FOREVER AQUA SHADOW - We are strong advocates of makeup pencils – they’re versatile, easy to use and make life simpler. Makeup Forever’s waterproof shadows make getting ready a breeze and they last through heat, cold and the occasional tearjerker movie. The metallic shades are guaranteed to grab your attention, but don’t ignore the bold mattes!

REVLON JUST BITTEN LIP STAINS - perfect for the no makeup look and guaranteed to withstand eating, drinking & hours of relaxing on the beach.

GUERLAIN TERRACOTTA SUN IN THE CITY POWDER - A luminous alternative to the traditional bronzer and the perfect way to highlight sunkissed skin. Guerlain is the final word when it comes to bronzer and the latest addition to their collection is every bit as impressive as one would imagine – added bonus the shimmering gold works with every skintone.

CLARINS EYE QUARTET MINERAL EYESHADOWS – The final bit of polish, a quad capable of creating a multitude of looks. The Clarins shadows are highly underrated and the selection of nudes is creamy and gorgeous.

Tao Okamoto by Lachlan Bailey (Paris: Management + Artists, New York: Management + Artists)

TAO’S FILM DEBUT

In news that should please comic book fans, Variety reports that Tao Okamoto is set to join Hollywood star, Hugh Jackman onscreen in the latest Wolverine movie. Directed by James Mangold, the man behind 3:10 to Yuma, Girl Interrupted and Walk the Line, the film traces the origins of the iconic character and his time spent in Japan. According to Coming Soon, “Okamoto will star as Mariko, daughter of Shingen (Wolverine’s arch nemesis and the film’s primary antagonist) and one-time fiancee to Wolverine.” Tao isn’t the only model in the cast either – Rila Fukushima is set to play Yukio, “one of the deadliest assassins in Shingen’s clan.”

Sounds like it is going to be an action packed and high drama extraganza, we can’t wait to see if Tao & Rika are as compelling onscreen, as they are on the catwalk.

Kati Nescher by David Sims in the latest issue of American Vogue

ART PARTNER’S NEW BLOG

It may feel like fashion and the internet are completely intertwined, but there is still a rush of excitement when an industry powerhouse heads to the web. Art Partner’s newly launched blog features the latest work from their slew of artists – names like Mario Testino, Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott, David Sims and Cedric Buchet among them – and is every bit as sleek as you’d imagine. Keeping up with the latest images from the biggest names has never been easier.

NEIMAN MARCUS + TARGET + THE CFDA!

A lot has been said about the merger of high and low end, but when Neiman Marcus starts collaborating with Target, the game is definitely changing. A limited edition collection featuring looks created by an all-star lineup of designers, including Carolina Herrera, Derek Lam, Diane von Furstenberg, Jason Wu, Marc Jacobs, Oscar de la Renta and Tory Burch, will launch just in time for the holidays. If those names aren’t enough to entice you, dont’ worry Alice + Olivia, Altuzarra, Band of Outsiders, Brian Atwood, Eddie Borgo, Judith Leiber, Lela Rose, Marchesa, Philip Crangi, Prabal Gurung, Proenza Schouler, Rag & Bone, Robert Rodriguez, Rodarte, Skaist-Taylor, Thom Browne and Tracy Reese will also be participating. Prices are from $7 to $499 – so there is sure to be something for everyone.

Every top tier brand ushers out a new campaign each season, but only a select few push creative boundaries instead of just pushing product. With fall ads launching earlier than ever (remember the days of opening up September Vogue and experiencing new ads for the very first time) there are already several ads that impress us with their unique interpretation of their brand’s message. Take a look at our picks for most intriguing ads so far and be sure to share your selections in the comments!

Kenzo

The brand’s thrilling reboot continues with Jean Paul Goude breathing new life into the fall campaign imagery. Xiao Wen Ju & Simon Sabbah are connected in these cheeky reversible shots with a neon Kenzo logo flashing in the background. Goude’s image has instant visual impact and is a fun showcase for those cool Humberto Leon and Carol Lim designs.

Raf Simons
In case you had any doubt’s about Raf Simons’ ability to be subversive check out the striking new f/w ads by Pierre Debusschere starring Yannick Abrath. The impressive sculptural shots are a sight to behold, as is the corresponding campaign video that brings the imagery to life with beautifully abstract visuals.

RAF SIMONS RUN FALL RUN from 254⚡FOREST on Vimeo.

Mulberry

The fuzzy-wuzzies from Where the Wild Things Are invade Tim Walker‘s fantastical ads for Mulberry. The ads otherworldly vibe is only heightened by the addition of fashion’s favorite pixie, Lindsey Wixson and Jane How‘s sleek styling.

Prada

All the things that made the show so memorable are served up with glossy perfection in Steven Meisel‘s ultra-luxe ads. Vanessa Axente, Magdalena Frackowiak, Madison Headrick, Elza Luijendijk, Iselin Steiro and Anne Vyalitsyna sport the dip-dyed extensions and gilded accessories with panache.

Louis Vuitton

Putting that one of a kind Louis Vuitton train to good use Steven Meisel shoots a cast of it girls for the brand’s fall ads.  Elena Bartels, Erjona Ala, Franzi Mueller, Hedvig Palm, Julia Nobis, Mackenzie Drazan, Magda Laguinge, Marie Piovesan, Marina Heiden, Ros Georgiou shine in those signature oversized hats.

Givenchy

It is hard to beat an ad with fashion by Carine Roitfeld, images by Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott and a fresh cast including Stella Tennant, Joan Smalls, Daniela Braga, Stef Van Der Laan, Rodrigo Braga, Simone Nobili and Jarrod Scott. Givenchy’s campaign is all about motion and movement, be sure to check out the behind the scenes video to see how those action shots came together.

Happy birthday to supermodel Naomi Campbell, who turns 42 today and is still one of the most in demand faces within the industry. Naomi’s career is legendary not just because of her phenomenal accomplishments (there isn’t a campaign she hasn’t booked or a runway she hasn’t walked) but also because of the series of ground she broke, not just for herself but for models of color everywhere. Take a look back at some of our favorite Naomi moments from her 20 years in the industry.

1988 – THE 1ST

As a true trailblazer Naomi was not only the very first black model to appear on the cover of Vogue Paris, she was also the first to land a spot on the cover of American Vogue‘s coveted September issue.

1994 – PRADA

Not to mention the very first black model to appear in ads for Prada, also one of the few to ever set foot on the mega-brand’s runways. Fashion historians will note that it took 10 years for another black model to grace the Prada catwalk.

90s – THE TRINITY

The iconic faces of a generation; along with friends Linda Evangelista and Christy Turlington, Naomi owned the 90s runways. More than just a group of besties, the trio banded together with Evangelista and Turlington refusing to do shows unless Naomi walked alongside them.

1989 & 2008 – YSL

As a mentor, friend and supporter, Yves Saint Laurent was an important part of Campbell’s success. “He was the one who campaigned to put me on the cover on French Vogue and I was the first woman of color to be on the cover — that was because of him. He was so supportive of me. Not just for me, for women of color everywhere.”

1992 – THE KING OF POP MEETS THE QUEEN OF MODELS

We know the George Michael Freedom video is another fashion milestone, but only one supermodel shared the dancefloor with the King of Pop!! Jackson’s In the Closet video, directed by Herb Ritts, shows two enduring talents at the top of their game.

1993 – VERSACE

Richard Avedon‘s Versace ads are modern classics and Naomi’s history with the house is well documented, from her friendship with Donatella & Gianni to her numerous appearances on the Versace runway.

2003 – CHANGE CLOTHES

A decade later and still serving it up in memorable music videos, this time for Jay-Z and Pharrell.

2007 – THE NAOMI DIARIES

Could most models turn their community service into one of the best fashion editorials of the year? The answer is no.

2008 – DREAM A LITTLE DREAM

You have to love Mario Sorrenti‘s images of Naomi for V Magazine.

2009 – SO GOUDE

Jean Paul Goude + Naomi is a winning combination, especially when recreating one of his classic Grace Jones images with the help of Marc Jacobs.

2010 – PUSHING BOUNDARIES

Never one to be afraid of controversy, Naomi has appeared in countless editorials that push the limits, most recently her Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott story in Interview was an especially striking example.

Time Magazine‘s list of the 100 Greatest Fashion Icons is a compelling read. There are some obvious choices – Karl, Coco, Marc, Naomi, Linda & Kate are absolute icons. There are also few unsuspected surprises – we love The Row but, it was shocking to see the Olsen Twins mentioned alongside names like Schiaparelli and Prada. Perhaps the most interesting thing about the list were the names that don’t even appear at all. Time’s list passed over a host of bonafide icons from the world’s of design, entertainment and modeling. Here are 20 people Time missed that we think deserve to be held alongside the icons of the industry.

DESIGNERS

1. MADAME GRES
The legendary couturier, creator of the draped dress and one of the first designers to utilize the bias cut. Should be up there with Chanel!

2. HALSTON
Seminal American designer of the seventies, without the Halston look designers like Michael Kors wouldn’t exist.

3. THIERRY MUGLER
Mugler’s boundary pushing fashions defined the 80s and early 90s with their exaggerated proportions and dangerous sex appeal. Nicola Formichetti‘s revamp of Mugler’s label is nice and all, but nothing can ever compare to the original.

4. YOHJI YAMAMOTO
The unquestioned master of Japanese design – his omission from the list left us flabbergasted.

5. OLIVIER THEYSKENS
One of the brightest talents to emerge in the past decade. His designs at Rochas and Nina Ricci raised the bar for everyone in the industry and at Theory he continues to innovate.

MAKEUP ARTISTS & HAIR STYLISTS – there wasn’t a single makeup artist or hairstylist on the list and that in itself is downright criminal.

5. PAT McGRATH
From the game changing looks she’s created over the years on the runways, to her role in shaping Rooney Mara’s transformation in Girl With the Dragon tattoo, Pat has more than made an impact on the way we view makeup.

6. WAY BANDY
Creative genius behind those epic Scavullo shots that dominated the 70s and continue to inspire. Was one of the first makeup artists to step into the publishing field with his book, Designing Your Face.

7. VIDAL SASSOON (with Grace Coddington)
The man behind every geometic bob ever to exist and one of the first hair stylists to achieve celebrity status. Remember that gorgeous pixie Mia Farrow had in Rosemary’s Baby? You can thank Vidal for that.

MODELS

8. VERUSCHKA
One of the most photographed women of all time and the model in one of the most influential fashion films, Michelangelo Antonioni’s Blow Up.

9. CHRISTY TURLINGTON
You can’t exclude one of the most important members of the Trinity and not expect to hear about it. On top of being one of the most prolific supermodels ever, Christy’s continued humanitarian put her at the top of the list.

10. BROOKE SHIELDS
The face of the 80s in every way imaginable. From those unforgettable brows, to the Calvin ads that live on as the standard even now, Shields is iconic in every way.

MUSES

11. MARILYN MONROE & ELIZABETH TAYLOR
Two legends of vintage style who didn’t make the list. We can’t think of a single more copied look than Marilyn’s pneumatic bottle blonde chic. The public frenzy over La Liz’s posthumous Christies auction all but proves her lasting influence as an icon of celebrity style.

12. IRIS APFEL
When the Met launches an entire collection based around your style, you know that you’re a legend. Apfel has inspired everyone from MAC Cosmetics, to labels like Suno, Prada and countless fashionphiles.

EDITORS / INSIDERS

13 & 14.CATHY HORYN & SUZY MENKES
The two strongest and most opinionated voices in fashion criticism surely deserve a spot on the iconic list. Besides, where would we be without Suzy’s inimitable hair croissant?

15. ANNA DELLO RUSSO
If the street style revolution has a face it belongs to the outlandish and perennially over the top, Ms. Dello Russo. If Lady Gaga gets a slot for sartorial antics, so should Anna.

16. POLLY MELLEN
From Miss Porter’s school to the pages of Vogue, Bazaar and Allure, in her nearly 50 year career Mellen contributed to some of fashion’s most memorable imagery.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

17. PETER LINDBERGH
One of the more shocking omissions, Lindbergh’s signature cinematic style has stood the test of time.

18. MERT ALAS & MARCUS PIGGOTT
For better or worse their sleek, surreal style changed the landscape of fashion photography forever.

19. BILL CUNNINGHAM
The creator of street style and still its very best representative. Forget Sart, Garance, Tommy Ton and all the others – Bill originated it all.

INNOVATORS

20. MILENA CANONERO
Costume designer Edith Head gets a nod for her role in shaping Hollywood glamour, but Canonero’s inventive costuming doesn’t get a mention. Her role in crafting our vision of subversive glamour is unparalleled; Clockwork Orange, The Hunger, Barry Lyndon, Marie Antoinette – the list goes on.

This past week we were graced with new music videos by two pop divas and a queen. The month started when a Canadian singer Carly Rae Jespen debuted her music video for “Call Me Maybe” featuring the first in spring’s wave of videos with male models. Say goodbye to the days of the model video vixen, we welcome the presence of fashion’s finest men.

No stranger to a Lana Del Rey video, Bradley Soileau makes his second video appearance in “Blue Jeans” as her half-man-half-crocodile pool side lover.

What’s the best way to get over your cheating ex? Katy Perry makes her statement by enlisting with the Marines after catching Lucas Kerr red handed at the office in the “Part of Me” video. Let’s just hope that Katy and Baptiste Giabiconi can find a happier ending than that.

And never to be outdone, Madonna takes no prisoners in her Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott directed video by taking on not one, but five of the top male models in her video for “Girl Gone Wild.”

Fashion and music seem to go hand in hand and we can’t help but wonder; who will be the next fabulous face in this growing trend?

Carly Rae Jespen – “Call Me Maybe” featuring Holden Nowell

Lana Del Rey – “Blue Jeans” featuring Bradley Soileau

Katy Perry – “Part of Me” featuring Lucas Kerr

Madonna – “Girl Gone Wild” featuring Brad Alphonso, Jon Kortajarena, Rob Evans, Sean O’Pry, and Simon Nessman

Madonna
Mert and Marcus
and 4 Male supers

What more can you want from a music video? Watch the teaser to Madonna’s Girl Gone Wild video with 4 of the most beautiful men in modeling today; Sean O’Pry, Simon Nessman, Jon Kortajarena and Rob Evans. The full video comes out March 26th.

Linda Evangelista.
Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott.
Katie Grand.
Love Magazine.

The legend of Linda continues with LOVE’s stunning spring / summer edition, their first ever issue with only one cover, a vibrant shot inspired by the work of artist Jamie Reid. When you have Linda Evangelista at your disposal, what more do you need?