Coco Rocha's Master Class in the Study of Pose

One of my holiday wish list items I just couldn't wait for was the recently published Study of Pose: 1,000 Poses by Coco Rocha. The Canadian model brought that to life for over 100 students at my alma mater, Parsons The New School for Design last week for an epic live drawing event.

My favorite class by far at Parsons was model drawing. Famous live drawing models at Parsons included Madonna during her early years in New York. Almost every mega-brand fashion designer who Parsons (Alexander Wang, Donna Karan...) also took these classes as a requirement. 

While every student always had favorite models who posed well in our classes, I can't say we really analyzed the art of posing itself. Current Dean Simon Collins hosted a Q & A with Coco Rocha and her collaborator on the book Steven Sebring while artists of many different mediums sketched the model. The best artwork from the event will be shown in an exhibit at the Milk Studio's Ground Floor Gallery launching today.

The book itself holds 1000 beautifully shot poses executed by Coco Rocha herself. I can't even imagine what it would take to be inspired to create that many shapes with your own body. While I don't have as much time as I used to join drawing sessions, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this tome for drawing fashion croquis at home.

For all of you fashion bloggers and #OOTD fans, the challenge has been presented. You now have a textbook to study from. Abandon your cliche teapot stance, no more crossed ankles with your cell phone in a mirror please. I want to see outfit posts on Instagram that push your pose to the limit. 
photos from Stephanie Soto

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FAB Exclusive: Interview with Camila Alves

You might recognize Camila Alves as the super-hot mom/model (her Hubby is the equally hot Matthew McConaughey).  These days Ms. Alves is gaining praise for her handbag label MUXO and a new tunic collection.  She truly puts family first, her design and business partner is none other than her own Mom.

In contrast to your typical "celebrity" handbag line, Camila and her mother originally started their own handbag line for same reasons as many other designers.  They wanted to make money together and be able to send funds home to their family.  In the early days, the two of them would work late into the night to stitch, hammer and apply trim themselves to make their bags by hand.

Ms. Fabulous editor Mariana Leung chats with Camila about her fashion journey:

Ms. FABulous: Who were your style icons growing up?

Camila Alves: I think my mother was definitely an influential part of my style growing up. She’s always had a cool sophisticated air about her that translates in our designs.

MsF: Has being a parent changed how you work as an entrepreneur and designer?

C.A.: Absolutely! I need things to not only be chic, but also effortless and able to be work for different outfits and occasions.

MsF: You design your handbag collection with your mother.  While you are well known for your modeling work in the fashion industry, did either of you have previous design experience or was it a mutual love of style that brought you together for this collection?

C.A.: I feel like I have been in the fashion my whole life! From my modeling career to watching my mother who has 3 degrees in design and arts! 

MsF: The collection features Brazilian leather and handcrafted workmanship.  How involved were you in the decisions of choosing the materials and directing how they were to be made?

C.A.: I’m completely involved in the creative process. I wanted to create a line that I could nurture and grow be proud of, and that meant that I needed to be involved from conception to execution.

MsF: What inspired you to add tunics to your label?  Is there a plan for a full clothing line?

C.A.: I wanted to expand from the handbags and tunics worked naturally because just like the bags, it’s something that works for all women of different sizes and ages. No plans just yet, but we’ll see what else comes to mind!

MsF: What was the most unexpected thing you learned in creating your own fashion label?

C.A.: I was surprised at how easily something can come to life when you’re passionate about . And also how you actually influence people and provide them with special experiences thru your product and creation!

MsF: What is the most special tradition you have for the holidays? 

C.A.: Getting the whole family together and having a sit down meal and acknowledging how blessed we are to have each other!

MsF: Thank you and happy holidays!

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