Zalando Partners With Fashion Industry Names To Release Never Before Seen Images On The Theme Of Human Connection

This holiday season, Zalando, Europe's leading online platform for fashion and lifestyle, is partnering with some of fashion's biggest names to bring the feeling of a million virtual hugs across Europe. The campaign features Brooklyn Beckham, Diane von Furstenberg, Jeremy Scott and Munroe Bergdorf sharing candid images showing the ultimate expression of human connection and solidarity: the hug.

Against the backdrop of a challenging year of uncertainty and separation, the collection comes with the inspirational rallying cry - 'We Will Hug Again' - an optimistic message of a more positive future and a reminder of the importance of personal connection this festive period. Images used in the campaign can be downloaded here.

The campaign also features friend of Zalando, model and activist Rain Dove.

The image collection is an extension of Zalando's Holiday Campaign, 'We Will Hug Again', which launched in November with the heart-warming film, '100 Years of Hugs' and a series of images - Hug Portraits - of real people embracing.

As part of the efforts to celebrate the power of human connection, Zalando is also supporting the Red Cross to help those who may be isolated and lacking that connection at this time. While many of us cannot hug at this moment in time, together they are looking forward to a time when we can. They are calling on consumers to pick a favourite picture of a hug memory from their camera roll and share it on social media. For each post tagging @Zalando and using #WeWillHugAgain, Zalando will donate €5 to the Red Cross.

Photographer Brooklyn Beckham, whose emotive imagery made him the perfect fit for the campaign features, said of the partnership: "Human connection and physical embraces are so important in life. At a time when many of us are apart from loved ones, it felt right to partner with Zalando to spread a message of optimism that we will hug again. These images are deeply personal to me and show moments I don't often share, but now is the time to be thankful for the great moments we've had and look forward to creating many more sometime soon."

Model and activist Munroe Bergdorf, who shared an image of a tender hug between herself and friend and model Billy, added: "My camera roll is full of so many gorgeous cuddles and hugs with family and friends that I was spoilt for choice. It's lovely to look back on past moments and know that, even while things can be challenging right now, we will create many more memories like these in the future. Our loved ones are our support systems, they allow us to feel seen, heard and understood. I'm going to miss seeing so many of them over the festive season but I know we have so many amazing times to come. I'm glad to be part of spreading a bit of positivity and part of a campaign that is helping support those that need human connection the most."

Natalie Wills, Global Director Social Media & Consumer PR remarked: "We're delighted that so many of the industry's most well-known faces have lent their voices to share this positive message. The images they've shared celebrate the beauty of human connection, and we want to inspire the feeling of hope and optimism in these challenging times. It was also important to us to use this campaign as another opportunity to give back to the community and the support Red Cross on their mission to bring connection and support to those that need it most during this period."  

#wewillhugagain @Zalando 

FASHIONADO

MUCHO MUCHO AMOR - A New Netflix Original Documentary of Walter Mercado

Watch our interview with the filmmakers behind Mucho Mucho Amor. Alex Fumero, Cristina Costantini and Kareem Tabsch share stories about the life of Walter Mercado and production of the film.

Every single day for decades, extravagant Puerto Rican astrologer, psychic, and gender nonconforming legend Walter Mercado charmed the world with his televised horoscopes. Equal parts Oprah, Liberace, and Mr. Rogers, Walter was a celebrated daily part of Latin culture, who at his peak reached over 120 million viewers. Since childhood, Walter was regarded as a healer, but his greatest miracle might have been his personal transformation from shy farm boy to flamboyant showman. Walter enthralled much of the world with sequined capes, opulent jewelry and pressing horoscopes that shared a message of love and hope to his devoted viewers — until one day he mysteriously disappeared.

Over a decade later award-winning documentarians Cristina Costantini (Science Fair) and Kareem Tabsch (The Last Resort) plus producer Alex Fumero (I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson) received unprecedented access to Walter during his post-fame seclusion and invite us into his home and interior world. With MUCHO MUCHO AMOR, they capture Walter’s final two years, when the pioneering icon grappled with aging and his legacy, as he prepared for one last star-studded spectacle. We invite you to view the first trailer for MUCHO MUCHO AMOR, the new Netflix Original Documentary about the iconic Latinx astrologer Walter Mercado. We hope you will discover the magic, mysticism and the love of Walter Mercado.  A hit at the Sundance Film Festival this year, the film is releasing globally on Netflix July 8th.

For many, Walter Mercado has been a household name for generations.  He was that optimistic/larger than life character that came into everyone's household via television.  For some he was even bigger than Oprah and uber flamboyant like that of Liberace. But he was always full of love, life and inspiration! We need some Walter right now!!!

Every day for decades, Walter Mercado mesmerized 120 million Latinx viewers with his extravagance, glamour, and artistry. Viewers across generations and all over the world gathered around the TV eagerly waiting for him to deliver his daily reading of your sign. Award-winning documentarians Cristina Costantini (Science Fair) and Kareem Tabsch (The Last Resort) direct MUCHO MUCHO AMOR, produced by Alex Fumero (I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson). “We sincerely hope you will become inspired by Mercado’s message of understanding, peace mucho paz and above all love mucho mucho amor.”

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Nina West And Dolly Parton Team Up For "Dolly X Nina: Kindness Is Queen" Collection

Kindness is Queen! As revealed exclusively through Entertainment Weekly, The Nina West Foundation is thrilled to announce an incredibly special, first-of-its-kind partnership between Country Music legend Dolly Parton and Drag Superstar  and LGBTQ+ activist Nina West. These two Queens of Kindness have teamed up for the Dolly x Nina: Kindness is Queen collection to foster kindness and hope during this difficult time.

"When I approached Dolly with the idea for a collaboration between the Nina West Foundation and Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, I was looking for an opportunity to continue to spread my message of kindness while building on the work I've done through my foundation supporting LGBTQ+ youth and families," said Nina West. "Dolly is the Ultimate Queen of Kindness and I am so thrilled that she agreed to this collaboration! We both want to spread the message that Kindness is Queen and that being kind is something that is desperately needed in our world right now!"

Proceeds from the Kindness is Queen Limited Edition T-shirt, Tote Bag and Enamel pin will go to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, a book gifting program that promotes literacy by providing free high quality books to children of all ages, and the Nina West Foundation which supports organizations and services that support LGBTQ+ youth and families. The collection is available now at www.ninawest.com/kindness for a limited time.

Remember, Kindness is Queen and may she ever reign supreme!

FASHIONADO

Jason Wu collaborates WILD BEAUTY Exclusive Florals

Today, 1-800-Flowers.com®, one of the world's leading floral providers, announced it has collaborated with global design talent, Jason Wu, to release an exclusive assortment of modern and elegant bouquets. The Jason Wu for Wild Beauty™ collection, which is now available nationwide, features on-trend arrangements that embody the designer's signature aesthetic of femininity and sophistication. Behind-the-scenes content, specially designed 'thank you' notes and the ability to preview select bouquets in 3D will allow customers to have an immersive digital experience as they are introduced to the new collection. This marks Jason Wu's first collaboration with a floral and gifting brand.

"Jason Wu is one of the world's most renowned fashion designers and we are thrilled to collaborate with him on this truly original collection, which reflects his unique point of view in floral design and bouquet presentation," said Valerie Ghitelman, Vice President, Product Development and Design, 1-800-Flowers.com. "We are excited to not only share these beautifully crafted arrangements with our customers, but to engage them with distinctive content that provides insights into Jason's design influences and more."

"Playing a role in the intimate decision of what one chooses to wear each day is such an important part of what I do," said Jason Wu. "To extend this concept to the graceful details people bring into their homes is an honor. This collection with 1-800-Flowers.com is especially meaningful to me because of my lifelong love of flowers. Floral elements continuously inspire me and have been a consistent theme throughout my entire career. I'm thrilled to celebrate the beauty of flowers in this new and special way."

A Collection Influenced by Jason Wu's Design Aesthetic: Jason's design influences, such as modern femininity and refined style, are reflected throughout the entire Jason Wu for Wild Beauty collection. Chic, gathered arrangements include freshly cut flowers – such as roses, sunflowers, gerbera daisies, thistle, aster and mini calla lilies, among others – that are grown with love at select eco-friendly, sustainable farms. Each bouquet, which includes a mix of textures and florals unique to the season, arrives wrapped in white kraft paper and is nestled inside a signature gift box. Customers can also opt to order a galvanized flower pail to showcase their arrangement. The collection includes:

• Citrus Crush™ Bouquet by Jason Wu for Wild Beauty

• Watercolor Chiffon™ Bouquet by Jason Wu for Wild Beauty

• Wild Cascade™ Bouquet by Jason Wu for Wild Beauty

• Poplin Crème™ Bouquet by Jason Wu for Wild Beauty

• Silken Roses™ Bouquet by Jason Wu for Wild Beauty

Bouquets from the Jason Wu for Wild Beauty collection come with a custom hangtag, which prompts recipients with a QR code to enjoy a mobile web experience. Exclusive and engaging content includes behind-the-scenes footage from Jason's Ready-To-Wear Fall 2020 New York Fashion Week Show and the Jason Wu for Wild Beauty collection photo shoot, both of which took place earlier this year. It also provides access to special 'thank you' notes whereby bouquet recipients can instantly connect with and send a digital message to the sender. Find all this at www.1800flowers.com/jasonwu-connect.

FASHIONADO

HARRY NORMAN, REALTORS® Announces #MOVE4ATL Initiative

Harry Norman, REALTORS® is proud to announce a new social media initiative, #Move4ATL. On Saturday, June 6, from 10am to 2pm, Harry Norman is set to bring their agents, staff, and the Atlanta community together to move their bodies for a good cause virtually, through their Instagram and Facebook.

Joining in is easy – donate $30 (or more) for entry and get moving! Whether it’s running, walking, riding, skipping, dancing, yoga, or any other physical activity, join the virtual action and post a photo with the hashtag #Move4ATL. All proceeds for the 4-hour event will be donated to the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta and United Way of Greater Atlanta’s Greater Atlanta COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund.

 
“The COVID-19 crisis is an unprecedented situation that has changed the way we look at things and caused us to reevaluate our priorities as a company and as individuals,” says Harry Norman President and CEO, Jenni Bonura. “It’s incredible to foster the camaraderie amongst our agents and celebrate activity, exercise, and our great city of Atlanta as we continue to do everything we can to hold others up.” 
 
One of Harry Norman’s key tenets is making a real difference in Atlanta through community service. Throughout the year, Harry Norman supports a variety of local nonprofit organizations through the Harry Norman, REALTORS® Philanthropy Fund. To continue furthering their impact during these trying times, they’ve chosen to partner with the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta and United Way of Greater Atlanta. The Greater Atlanta COVID-19 Recovery and Response Fund provides immediate support to those most vulnerable to the economic and health-related issues caused by the novel coronavirus pandemic.
 
"The Community Foundation and Harry Norman, REALTORS® established a powerful partnership for philanthropy last year, and now we elevate it to fight the health and economic hardships the COVID-19 pandemic is causing," said Elyse Hammett, Vice President of marketing and communications at Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta. "We applaud the ongoing dedication of these thousands of realtors across the region who understand the power of community and give generously to help our neighbors who need it now."  

To sign up for #Move4ATL, head here.

FASHIONADO

Eyewear Industry Disrupter Privé Revaux Announces European Expansion Exclusively With GrandVision

Privé Revaux, the affordable, celebrity eyewear brand is taking their industry disruption to Europe in collaboration with exclusive partner GrandVision, a global leader in optical retail. GrandVision is bringing the celebrity-backed brand from Jamie Foxx, Ashley Benson and Hailee Steinfeld across their extensive network of banner stores and e-commerce platforms including optical experts Vision Express in the UK, Trendy Opticians and Vision Express in Poland, Apollo-Optik in Germany, Atasun Optik in Turkey, GrandOptical and Pearle in Belgium, Eyewish and Pearle in the Netherlands.

"We are very excited to bring Privé Revaux's eyewear offering to Europe," said David Schottenstein, founder and CEO of Privé Revaux. "Our goal is to provide the absolute best quality, service and price for the global eyewear market and GrandVision is the perfect partner to achieve this."

Jamie Foxx, Partner at Privé Revaux, adds, "Collaborating with GrandVision to bring our fly and affordable brand worldwide is big achievement. I couldn't be more excited about Privé Revaux's future."

International shoppers can find an impressive assortment of Privé Revaux's handcrafted, fashion-forward and classic style sunglasses and anti-blue light glasses with options to add prescription, starting at $43 per pair. In addition, customers can expect to see a rotating selection of celebrity-designed capsule collections starting with popular styles from American actresses Madelaine Petsch (Riverdale), actress and singer, Dove Cameron and super model Adriana Lima. Each Privé Revaux style is made with high-end materials including acetate and proprietary lightweight, yet durable metal alloy. Sunglasses also have polarized lenses with 100% UVA/UVB protection, while all clear lenses feature blue light-blocking technology to protect from digital eye strain.

Notes Hailee Steinfeld, "Privé Revaux represents such versatility and accessibility with our selection of affordable glasses and sunglasses, and thanks to GrandVision, we can now offer these designs to our friends and fans in Europe." Adds Ashley Benson, "Sunglasses are my favorite accessory and I believe everyone needs a few go-to pairs. "I am thrilled that with we can now offer our incredible value to customers internationally without sacrificing any of the quality. I can't wait to see everyone's reaction to our designs!"

Privé Revaux was built by an elite team with a shared passion for style and quality including serial entrepreneur David Schottenstein, celebrity visionaries Jamie Foxx, Hailee Steinfeld and Ashley Benson, as well as Creative Directors Rob Zangardi and Mariel Haenn. In two short years the brand has emerged as a leader in the eyewear industry with their high-quality, affordable sunglasses, anti-blue light glasses and readers. Continually on the forefront of design, innovation and craftsmanship, Privé Revaux brings an unprecedented value to customers with the belief that designer eyewear shouldn't be a luxury reserved for a select few.

FASHIONADO

Times Square Billboard Promises A Free Face Mask For Every American

DHVANI, the Activ(ist)Wear brand, unveiled a Times Square billboard promising "A Mask for Every American." The red, white and blue billboard features the internet address DHVANI.com/FreeMasks – a web page where anyone can request a free face mask, and donate to help supply masks.

The billboard kicks off a fundraising campaign to provide all 327 million American residents with a free face mask to protect themselves and others from the COVID-19 pandemic. The company will provide medical-grade masks to healthcare professionals and reusable cloth masks to the general public, per recommendations from U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

This is a personal issue for DHVANI's co-founder and chief of operations, Kanayochukwu Onwuama. Onwuama first learned of the seriousness of the personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages in the New York City area from his mother Joy Austin, a registered nurse at Elmhurst Hospital in Queens, NY. 

"When my mom told me she'd been using the same disposable mask for a whole week, my stomach dropped, and I couldn't help but cry," said Onwuama. "I immediately knew I had to do something."

"We hope nobody actually sees the billboard because they're sheltering in place," said Avi Brown, DHVANI's co-founder and chief executive. "Unprecedented times require unprecedented action. It's up to all of us to put an end to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the help of donations from the public, we're using our manufacturing and distribution resources to put a mask on every face in America."

The two founders quickly decided to help the American people fight the virus, which has already caused more than 170,000 deaths worldwide, one in four of which have been in the U.S. In Portland, where DHVANI is headquartered, the company made an initial donation of 10,000 medical-grade face masks to Providence St. Vincent Medical Center and an additional 1,000 to essential workers such as grocery store employees. Its next donation of 10,000 masks will be delivered to Elmhurst Hospital.

"Providence is grateful for DHVANI's mask donation," said Nancy Roberts, chief operating officer of Providence St. Vincent Medical Center. "Every caregiver in a patient care area, no matter what their role, wears a mask for their shift. Donations from local organizations like DHVANI help us ensure that we continue to have masks to protect our patients, their families, and our caregivers. We are truly amazed by the generosity of individuals and businesses in Oregon."

DHVANI is no stranger to philanthropic activism. Earlier this year, the brand launched their Buy One, Plant One initiative to help the reforestation effort of Australia's 8.8 million acres of brush fire devastation. The company plants a tree for every item purchased from their website. And in an effort to directly reduce plastic pollution in oceans and landfills, DHVANI recently announced its new Terra leggings and sports bras, which are made from post-consumer recycled plastic bottles. 

FASHIONADO