Author: Couture Fashion Week

Couture Fashion Week was founded in 2005 by Andres Aquino. CFW presents a series of couture and luxury fashion shows in New York City and other selected cities.

Global Short Film Awards Marks Ten Years with Black-Tie Cannes Gala

Academy® Award winning actor Cuba Gooding, Jr. with Vincent DePaul (l) and Andres Aquino (r).
Academy® Award winning actor Cuba Gooding, Jr. with Vincent DePaul (l) and Andres Aquino (r). Photo: Alain Abi, @alagraphie

The 10th Annual Global Short Film Awards gala was one of the most sought after events in Cannes in May 2025. Held concurrently with the Cannes Film Festival, the gala was a delightful evening celebrating film, fashion and beauty, with music, entertainment, and gourmet delights. The breathtaking view of Cannes harbor from the rooftop of the prestigious Canopy Hilton was the backdrop for the unforgettable occasion.

One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award to Cuba Gooding, Jr. Mr. Gooding is a well-known major Hollywood actor and winner of an Academy® Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the hit movie Jerry Maguire. He has been in many other major films including A Few Good Men, Gladiator, As Good As It Gets, Norbit and Linewatch. He portrayed Dr. Ben Carson in the film Gifted Hands and OJ Simpson in the FX drama The People v. OJ Simpson: American Crime Story. He has also appeared in several Broadway and West End theater productions, has been nominated for Emmy and Golden Globe awards, and has his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented by Emmy-award winning actor and producer Vincent DePaul, who is appearing with Mr. Gooding in the upcoming film A Line of Fire.

A luxury fashion show by designer Andres Aquino – who is also the founder of the Global Short Film Awards and Couture Fashion Week New York – showcased an ethereal collection of luscious hand-printed silk designs celebrating nature and colorful birds from around the world. The collection was styled by Vietnamese fashion powerhouse Cory Couture Productions and featured exquisite hair and makeup styling by the Giuseppe Barra team from Italy. The models included top beauty queens and award winners from many countries, including a group from Prestige Models in Cyprus. This year’s Top Model Award was presented to Sarah Larissa Bruns, a rising star in the field and Miss Germany World 2024. Her experience was documented by RTL TV, one of Germany’s major media outlets.

GSF Awards Director Andres Aquino presents the 2025 Top Model Award to Sarah Larissa Bruns.
GSF Awards Director Andres Aquino presents the 2025 Top Model Award to Sarah Larissa Bruns. Photo: Anita Nagypal, @anitanagypal

The fashion portion of the evening also included the showing of a curated selection of menswear creations by rising New York fashion designer Majid Desire.

“Over ten consecutive years, we have cemented our position in Cannes as the most significant short film awards event gala,” says Global Short Film Awards Founder and Director Andres Aquino. “The winning films were selected from dozens of great entries by talented filmmakers from more than 80 countries. We are proud to have achieved this milestone and to bring recognition to these exceptional projects.”

The 2025 Global Short Film Awards winners:
Best Film: Awake
Best Director: Rossano B. Maniscalchi, Nexus
Best Actor: Niklas Agild, Awake
Best Actress: Tind Soneby, Awake
Best Animated Film: Bo and Trash (Spain)
Best Dance Film: Paolo and Francesca (UK)
Best Documentary: It’s Not Dark Yet (Italy)
Best Drama Film: Awake (Sweden)
Best Fashion and Beauty Film: Nexus (Italy)
Best Music Film: The Crumpled (Iran)
Best Science Fiction Film: Triskaidekaphobia (USA)
Outstanding New Film: Echoes by Shubhra Goyal

GSF Awards Director Andres Aquino with Lorenza Desiata and Rossano B. Maniscalchi of the Best Fashion and Beauty Film “Nexus”.
GSF Awards Director Andres Aquino with Lorenza Desiata and Rossano B. Maniscalchi of the Best Fashion and Beauty Film “Nexus”. Photo: Viresh Goerdin, @vireshgoerdin

Wine for the evening was sponsored by Sip Channe, and the wine label’s founder Kavita Channe also co-hosted the event with Vincent DePaul. Ms. Channe is a multi-talented entrepreneur widely recognized for her role as an acclaimed TV host and producer across the sports and entertainment industries, including the NFL, Fox Sports, HBO, VH1 and TLC.

Enhancing the gala was entertainment by singers Yvonne Spark, Lubovnicca and tenor Massimo Cims. DJ Somnous provided the music vibe.  International press covered the event.

A special afternoon of film and winning trailer screenings was held the day before at the Loho Auditorium at the Eden Hotel and Spa in Cannes, in partnership with a film project organized by Professor Karl Bardosh of New York University.

Understanding the Importance of Jewelry Maintenance for Longevity

Understanding the Importance of Jewelry Maintenance for LongevityJewelry is often steeped in sentiment. It is more than decoration. It embodies memories, milestones, and memorable moments. Suppose you have diamond rings that your family passed down to you, or you bought them for a once-in-a-lifetime moment. In that case, you will want to have your jewelry in the best condition possible to avoid losing the glamour and lifetime of use. Caring for them will keep your investment forever, maintaining its shine and sparkle.

The Role of Regular Cleaning in Jewelry Maintenance

Cleaning your jewelry regularly is the first and foremost method of maintaining it. Dirt, oils, cosmetics, lotions, and environmental residue can build up on jewelry surfaces and gemstones over time, dulling their shine. Regular cleaning removes these buildups, restoring the brilliance of your pieces.

Gentler materials are a good choice for everyday cleaning. A damp, soft cloth and a little soap in warm water should do the trick. Try jewelry cleaning solutions made for delicate metals and stones for tougher stains. Avoiding harsh chemicals is essential, as they may harm the setting and the gemstone.

Safe Storage: Protecting Your Jewelry from Damage

Safekeeping is as crucial as cleaning when caring for your jewelry. Jewelry should be stored in a dry, cool place and away from sunlight because temperature and moisture extremes can lead to damage over time. “Using a jewelry box with individual compartments can help avoid pieces scratching against one another.” Use a hanging jewelry organizer for necklaces so they don’t get all tangled up.

If you end up paying for a safe or a secure storage unit, it is a smart move to save valuable items from theft. Avoiding extreme humidity or salty air, like in bathrooms or beach areas, for jewelry is also essential for the quality of the materials.

Understanding the Impact of Daily Wear on Jewelry

Some preventable activities result in accelerated jewelry wear, making removing your items while performing them vital. The most common reasons include exposure to harsh chemicals while exercising or cleaning diamond rings. Always take off jewelry before swimming, especially in water treated with chlorine, which can weaken metals like gold and platinum.

Also, do not expose jewelry to extreme temperatures. Hot tubs, saunas, and direct sunlight will affect the metal and the gemstones. For everyday pieces you don’t take off, such as engagement rings, set up professional check-ups to see if the prongs are secure and the stone is undamaged.

Why Professional Inspection is Essential for Jewelry Maintenance

Cleaning and proper storage can help immensely, but jewelry still needs occasional professional inspection. Over time, prongs can wear down, and gemstones can loosen or become displaced. A jeweler will look for any loose settings, damage, or signs of wear that might not be readily visible.

Trained specialists can also clean and remake jewelry that has seen better days and make it look new again. For items with detailed designs or multiple stones, a jeweler can also examine the state of each specific detail to be sure nothing is amiss. Regular inspections, at least annually, are critical to keeping your jewelry in optimal condition.

Understanding the Importance of Jewelry Maintenance for Longevity

Understanding Different Metal Care Requirements

Metal is metal, but not all metals are the same, and caring for each can prevent it from tarnishing, scratching, or weakening. Some metals are relatively soft, and scratching is familiar (gold, for example), while others (such as platinum) are larger and sturdier but will oxidize over time. Silver tarnishes in the air, so it must be cleaned more often. Understanding the characteristics of your metal will help you develop a maintenance routine.

For silver, use a polishing cloth designed specifically for silver. A mild cleaner explicitly designed for precious metals works on gold or platinum; harsh chemicals may strip finishes and coatings. Keep your polish gentle and avoid buffing too hard, especially around where there are small details and designs.

Importance of Jewelry Insurance and Documentation

Quality insurance will cover any loss or damage, and proper maintenance to keep your jewelry pristine. This is especially significant for significant pieces, whether inherited family heirlooms or items that hold high financial value. Insurance will cover getting stuff replaced or repaired if it’s lost, stolen or damaged, so that’s peace of mind.

Your insurance agent also needs documentation of the value of your jewelry, including photographs and receipts. If you have any damage, you need a clean record to aid your insurance claim or assist the jeweler in restoration. Remember to reflect any change in the piece’s value on your insurance policy and records, especially after repairs, or if you purchased extra coverage.

Conclusion

Jewelry care and maintenance are the keys to keeping its beauty and extending its life. Regular cleaning, safe storage, professional inspections and understanding the specific needs of various metals can do a lot to keep your pieces in good condition. Whether out of sentimental value or investment, your jewelry should receive the attention and care it needs to ensure longevity for future generations.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right WWJD Bracelet Understanding WWJD Bracelets

WWJD bracelets have become more than just a fashion accessory; they’re a powerful reminder of faith. Standing for “What Would Jesus Do?” these bracelets encourage wearers to pause and reflect on their actions from a spiritual perspective. This concept dates back to the late 1800s but gained modern popularity in the 1990s as a part of a global movement among Christian youth. By wearing these bracelets, individuals across different demographics find a way to express their beliefs and connect with others who share similar values. For a deeper dive into the history of WWJD, you can explore this article about the origins and growth of the movement.

The Significance of WWJD Bracelets

WWJD bracelets continue to hold cultural and spiritual significance today. Initially, they were part of a resurgence that encouraged people, especially youths, to consider their actions thoughtfully. The bracelets serve several meaningful purposes:

  • Spiritual Reminder: They remind wearers to act with kindness and empathy, reflecting on what Jesus might do in similar situations.
  • Community and Identity: Wearing a WWJD bracelet can foster a sense of belonging, connecting individuals to a community with shared values.
  • Cultural Impact: These bracelets transcend age groups, representing faith and the desire to live ethically. By choosing to wear a WWJD bracelet, people carry a personal and spiritual symbol that resonates deeply with their daily lives.

Different Types of WWJD Bracelets

When it comes to choosing a WWJD bracelet, there’s a wide variety to consider. Understanding the differences can help you find the one that best suits your style and needs. Here’s a look at the options available:

  • Materials:
    • Fabric: Known for comfort and versatility. They’re lightweight and often come in various colors. Soft and breathable but might not last as long.
    • Rubber: Durable and water-resistant. These are great for active lifestyles and casual wear. However, they can be less stylish.
    • Metal: Often more formal, offering a polished look. Metals like stainless steel are resistant to tarnishing but might be heavier.
  • Style Variations:
    • Color Options: From understated neutrals to vibrant hues, you’ll find a color to match any outfit or mood.
    • Engravings: Add a personal touch with engraved messages or symbols that hold personal significance.
    • Customization Possibilities: Many bracelets offer options for personalized engravings, making them unique to the wearer.

Primary Benefits of Wearing a WWJD Bracelet

Wearing a WWJD bracelet isn’t just about fashion; it brings numerous benefits that touch both spiritual and practical realms.

  • Spiritual Benefits:
    • Daily Reminder: Acts as a constant prompt to reflect on personal actions and decisions in line with spiritual values.
    • Community Connection: Wearing a bracelet often sparks conversations with other like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of community.
  • Fashion and Personal Expression:
    • A WWJD bracelet can be an excellent addition to your wardrobe, adding a unique piece that expresses your faith and style.
    • Part of the larger trend of symbolic jewelry, these bracelets can be both meaningful and fashionable. 

How to Choose the Right WWJD Bracelet for You

Selecting the perfect WWJD bracelet is more than just picking out a stylish accessory; it’s about finding a bracelet that reflects your personal style and purpose. Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right one:

  • Consider Your Style: Think about what you’ll be wearing the bracelet with and how it matches your wardrobe. Whether you prefer subtle or bold, there’s a WWJD bracelet for every look.
  • Material Matters: Each material offers a different feel and durability.
    • Fabric Bracelets: Comfortable and lightweight, but may wear out faster.
    • Rubber Bracelets: Durable and water-resistant, great for everyday wear.
    • Metal Bracelets: Stylish and elegant but might be heavier on the wrist.
  • Custom Features: Look for features like engravings or colors that allow personalization. Some bracelets offer custom messages or styles that can make it more meaningful to you.
  • Purpose and Meaning: Decide if the bracelet is for daily use, special occasions, or as a personal reminder. This will guide you in choosing the style and material that best suits your needs.
  • Questions to Ask:
    • Does it fit comfortably for daily wear?
    • Can it withstand your usual activities or lifestyle?
    • Is it adjustable to fit perfectly on your wrist?
  • Try Before You Buy: If possible, try different types in-store to see what feels right. What might look good online may feel different once on your wrist.

Maintaining and Caring for Your WWJD Bracelet

To keep your WWJD bracelet in excellent condition, consider these simple care tips:

  • Cleaning by Material:
    • Fabric: Hand wash gently with mild soap and water. Avoid soaking it for long periods.
    • Rubber: Clean with a damp cloth and avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the material.
    • Metal: Polish with a soft cloth to retain its shine and prevent tarnishing.
  • Storage Tips:
    • Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. This helps in avoiding discoloration and material degradation.
    • Use a jewelry box or pouch to prevent scratches and tangles.
  • Longevity Do’s and Don’ts:
    • Do remove your bracelet when showering, swimming, or doing strenuous activities.
    • Don’t expose it to perfumes or lotions that might affect its appearance or longevity.

WWJD Bracelets as Gifts: Spreading the Message

WWJD bracelets offer more than just a reminder; they serve as meaningful gifts that can inspire and connect people. Here’s why they make perfect presents:

  • Thoughtful and Meaningful: Gifting a WWJD bracelet goes beyond traditional presents. It shows you’ve put thought into something that can help encourage and uplift.
  • Suitable Occasions: These bracelets are ideal for special moments like birthdays, baptisms, confirmations, or other spiritual milestones.
  • Personalized Touch: Adding personalized engravings can make the gift even more special, letting the recipient know just how much they mean to you.
  • Creative Packaging: Consider using unique wrapping ideas to add an extra layer of excitement when giving a WWJD bracelet.

Wrap Up and Ways to Get Your WWJD Bracelet Today

In conclusion, choosing the right WWJD bracelet involves considering personal style and the important messages these bracelets embody. Here’s a quick recap on why they are so special:

  • Personal Connection: They serve as constant reminders of faith and values.
  • Variety: There are plenty of styles and materials to suit different preferences and needs.
  • Gifting Potential: Ideal as thoughtful gifts that extend their inspiring message to others.

Now that you understand the significance of these bracelets, it’s time to explore where you can get your own. Many trusted retailers offer a wide selection, aligning with various tastes and preferences. Don’t miss out on exploring further options at well-regarded retail websites like ChristianBook.com.

Seek out these meaningful accessories today and enjoy the blend of fashion and faith they offer.

How to Select the Ideal Size in Latex Lingerie

How to Select the Ideal Size in Latex LingerieBesides ensuring that you look great in your latex lingerie, selecting the appropriate size is vital to feeling comfortable. Latex is totally different from fabrics in terms of tight body-fitting, so this tends to make sizing a little more tricky compared to the normal fabrics. Remember, latex does not stretch in the same way as cotton or spandex, allowing shaping and hugging with either confidence or restriction.

Latex lingerie, particularly, will show off curves and smooth one’s body to form a sleek and sensual silhouette. Yet when the size is not right, discomfort can easily creep and self-awareness can set in.

Understanding Latex Sizing

The size of latex is notably different from traditional lingerie fabrics, and it is imperative to grasp this in order to approach the sizing properly. Most will understand that stretchable fabrics allow for a more forgiving fit. However, latex is actually one material in rather close conformity to your body shape, and it is vital to choose the correct size to enjoy the lingerie completely.

A well-fitted latex piece should feel snug but not restrictive. You won’t want to experience discomfort or excessive constriction. You want your lingerie to feel relaxed so that it doesn’t lose its figure-hugging character. You want to attain the second skin-like quality, so that the latex needs to flow in congruence with your body’s shape.

Careful Measurement

Before purchasing latex lingerie, it is essential to measure properly. Because latex lingerie uk does not give that much, precise measurements will ensure you do not order a size that is too large or too small. Measure across:

  1. Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust so the measuring tape is level all the way around.
  2. Waist: Measure at the narrowest point of your waist. This will normally be one or two inches above your navel.
  3. Hips: Measure across the widest part of your hips. The measuring tape should be snug but not too tight.

Standing in front of a mirror can also help you confirm that the measuring tape is in the correct position. It’s good to check size charts provided by latex-lingerie manufacturers so you can utilize specifics of your measurements to find the correct size.

Lingerie Style Considerations

The style of the lingerie can affect which size you choose. The ornamental design, various cut patterns, and different articles of latex lingerie will wear differently on the body. For example, one must take in-depth measurements for a full latex catsuit, while only the measurements for the bust would do for latex bras or panty sets. Mind the cut of the garment, and how it is supposed to sit on you.

  • Bras and Bustiers: For latex bras or bustiers, take into account not only bust measurement but underbust measurement. A few pieces made from latex tend to possess a more stiff structure which will possibly obstruct this area.
  • Panties and Thongs: Latex panties and thongs should sit comfortably around the hips and not dig in or ride down. Since latex can sometimes create a more structured look, ensure that your choice of size accommodates your hip measurement.
  • Corsets and Girdles: If you are purchasing latex corsets or girdles, keep in mind they are designed to contour your waist and enhance your curves. You should select a size that’s snug enough to allow for some movement and comfortable breathing.

Fit Preferences Consideration

Fit preferences vary from person to person, and it would be smart to consider how individual comfort will play a role in the selection of a piece of latex lingerie. Some want a tighter, more restrictive fit for drama, while others prefer a slightly looser fit for easier movement. If you are ‘new’ to wearing occasional latex lingerie, you might try to get used to how it feels on your body by opting for looser fit options.

Perhaps a latex corset that’s too tight will start to feel restrictive after it’s been on for hours, while a more comfortably fitting latex bra can be worn through day or night without effects whatsoever.

Consider Thickness of Latex

The thickness of the latex material itself brings an added note to consider in the fitting process. Thicker latex is going to feel stiffer and less flexible, which means you might want to consider sizing up depending on the piece you are buying. Thinner latex, however, has a little more give than its thicker counterparts and will hug around your body that much easier. The thickness is a decision to consider carefully before making a choice about size, as there can be a noticeable difference in fit and comfort associated with the thickness.

For example, should you be picking up a latexcharms lingerie set made from 0.4mm latex, you might want to stick to your true-to-measurements since the thinner material will hug your body closer to tightly fitting. On the other hand, should your lingerie be made from a thicker latex (e.g., 0.6mm or larger), you might have to upscale a bit to stay comfy, considering the stiffer feel of the material.

Wear and Adjust

Unlike normal lingerie, latex requires some dexterity to get used to putting it on. Most people pass a very light dusting of talcum powder or apply some silicone that helps the latex slide onto their body, avoiding pulling or tugging.

While you are fitting the lingerie, check how it feels on various areas of your body. Is it too tight on your chest or waistband? Is there gaping or sagging in one area or another? Latex should fit without pressure at any point. If it is a bit too tight in some spots or loose anywhere, the item will need to be changed for another size.

Keep in mind that while the latex will conform to your body over time with use, it does not stretch in the same way that other fabrics do. If it feels really tight and limiting when you first try it on, chances are high that it will not loosen up much.

Conclusions

As we can see, selecting latex lingerie in the right size is largely about accuracy, knowledge of how latex performs as a material, as well as an awareness of a given brand’s sizing charts. Using accurate measurements, paying attention to the make and style of a piece of lingerie, and being aware of your own personal preferences on fit can give you the confidence that the latex lingerie will fit and flatter your figure appropriately.

Latex lingerie can make a fabulous addition to a sensual outfit and become a personal confidence booster and presentation of allure. A garment that is “just right” will enhance your figure with grace and comfort. If it is latex, the soft feel of the material will make it work in showing and defining luscious curves well.

When purchasing latex lingerie, these suggestions can help eliminate the guess work and no doubt, leave you feeling fantastic each time you slip into your latex lingerie.

5 Great Reasons for a Woman to Own a Cross-Body Bag

5 Great Reasons for a Woman to Own a Cross-Body Bag

It’s a wonderful feeling knowing that a social function is upcoming so that work and the pressures of everyday life can be forgotten about for a few hours. It provides the opportunity to mingle with friends and meet new acquaintances while being able to make a lasting first impression. Appearances matter, so it might necessitate a visit to a hair and nail salon as well as some retail therapy.

There are so many ways to put a stylish collection of clothes together so that they offer a stunning look. With so many accessories to complete the image, it’s important to find items that match while being functional at the same time. Whether it’s hats or jewellery, there is plenty of scope, while cross body bags for women are on trend for the following 5 good reasons.

  1. Owning a cross-body bag from a fashion name of note and high reputation allows any outfit to be added stylishly through the range of available options. They can be integrated and look perfectly matched, while those carrying a leading name will provide evidence that the owner has an eye for class and is doing well in life. Their indispensable accessory is also so much more convenient to take along than a bulky handbag.
  2. One of the overwhelming features that makes such bags so popular is their size. They are large enough to carry everything that is required without being too large and obtrusive. They make it easy to find things quickly without having to rummage for what feels like ages when in a rush in the bottom of a large bag, making them far more functional than the alternatives. There are designs that go perfectly with sneakers for a perfect match to a semi-casual appearance.
  3. Knowing that precious items remain in view is another huge attraction of a cross-body bag as security is increased for the wearer who is hands-free to get on with other things while knowing that their shift in concentration isn’t going to cost them dearly. If anyone should try to access the bag, the wearer will be alerted as it rests against their body.
  4. There are also health benefits from choosing such an accessory. While there is expert advice available for back pain, prevention is always preferable to undergoing treatment. Most of the weight rests against the body so that no increased pressure is placed in a particular area, which in time, can lead to issues.
  5. While everyone enjoys the benefits mentioned above, it is the stylish nature of the bags which makes them so popular, especially those that carry an instantly recognisable motif. They are perfect whatever the occasion and time of day, adding glitz to an outfit and instilling confidence in the woman who is wearing one.

A woman’s cross-body bag is the perfect accessory for those wishing to add to an outfit and look fashionable and stylish while preventing pressure on their back and having greater security.