Always wanted to write for a magazine...

As regular readers of this blog will attest, my contribution to SKIN magazine is something I am very proud of. Ever since I was first approached about working for the magazine following an interview with the publication’s fearless leader Carmin Conner, it’s been a thrill ride of epic proportions. Being charged with creating fetish pieces for SKIN was a massive compliment, and a task I relished during the ensuing months. I’ve had the pleasure to write some fascinating pieces on everything from sex dolls to choking and suspension. Plus I’ve had the honour of interviewing some interesting (as well as inspiring) characters. Chief amongst these is Ed Fox, a fetish and erotica photographer from LA whom I have interviewed for the most recent incarnation of SKIN, issue five. But more on that in a moment; I thought it fitting to begin this promotional review by quoting the words of Carmin Conner from page one of our newest book…

“It seems like only yesterday we were starting out, squirreling away on our first ever issue but now over a year has passed and we’ve had dozens of completely marvellous contributors! So a big thank you to everyone who has been part of our success, let’s move onwards and upwards with valour!”

Reading this first passage at the very outset of issue five immediately took me back to those early days of SKIN, where our antics and stories were confined to a computer screen. Right up until the release of this latest chapter in the SKIN story, it has been a labour of love for me and all my fellow contributors. However, special mention will always go to Carmin Conner, who brought together a rag tag bunch of writers, artists, musicians, models, photographers and reviewers, to help realise her vision of a new magazine.

No we’ve arrived at issue five, the magazine has come on leaps and bounds from its first few offerings. The biggest leap is this issue’s leap from the computer screen into print, an achievement that is solely down to Carmin’s efforts and persistence. For the first time you can now own your very own tangible copy of SKIN, to have and to hold and to dog-ear as you see fit. I’m very proud to have my work showcased alongside such a stellar collection of professionals, and to echo Carmin’s words once more… “The issue is an absolute beast!”

So what can you expect from issue five of SKIN? Well, as this is a simple promotional review, I’m going to give you all a taste of what to expect within its sumptuous pages, but it’s up to each and every one of you to find out more for yourself. I will of course be giving out contact details along the way, and let you know where you can read SKIN as well as get involved and follow the day to day antics of the team and the readers we serve.

Here’s a little taster of what’s in the newest issue. As you would expect from SKIN by now, photography and photographers are very well represented. Our collection of current and past photographers is a smorgasbord of visual delight that will both enthral and inspire further research from readers. My own piece with erotic photographer Ed Fox is a highlight for me personally, I was thrilled to meet a hero of mine and someone whose work I have enjoyed for years. However, Danish Photographer Stamatis is a very affecting photographer who I shall be following from here on out. Larry Bradby’s work is always stellar, and a joy to behold.

As well as photographical material, there are a number of articles from the SKIN team that benefit from thorough indulgence, and studied reading. Carmin Conner’s piece Man Ray and the Black Dahlia Is a thoroughly researched account, and a fresh take from a lady who knows her killers. A gripping read! I was also taken aback by The Hanging Club an article depicting the erotic hanging of four girls for an audience’s entertainment. Unlike anything else I’ve read, beautifully written and observed, it’ll move you.

For me, The Diary of Mistress Hayden is one of the standout pieces from the current issue. Brought to us by SKIN newcomer Brittany Ann Selditch, it’s a masterful memoir from a woman who has lived such an incredible life already. I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with Brittany personally, and she oozes charisma. The kind of person that you want to know everything about, and whose secrets and stories you crave. Now thanks to a recurring feature in SKIN, we get to learn a lot more about this fascinating lady. I tell you what, as a fetish writer, I better watch my back!

Now as explained, I’ve only skimmed over the content in this mammoth issue five of SKIN. I’ve merely grazed the surface of what you can expect when you check out the magazine. There are countless other treats within the covers; Martin Van Maele, Vincent Crowley, Julz Ramos, film and music reviews, and even an interview with a snuff director, to name but a few. Masterfully put together by design director JG and editor Carmin Conner, this issue represents a real milestone for SKIN as a publication. I’m always thrilled to have my work featured in the magazine, but with the book taking off and moving into print, I feel even more proud and excited about the future.

Here are all the links you need to get your hands on SKIN and get involved with the community online:

LIKE SKIN: www.facebook.com/skin.mag

FOLLOW SKIN: www.skin-mag.tumblr.com

BUY SKIN: www.blurb.com/user/SKINmagazine

READ SKIN: http://issuu.com/skin./docs/skin_issue_5_final?mode=window

I doodled Vikki Blows cuz i miss her work.

Topless Tuesday drawn by me and featuring the exquisite Abbie Mac. She’s become even more wonderfully tattooed since the image that inspired this picture was taken (thank god it was after cuz it’s hard to do justice to tattoos in drawings… at least for me it is). Anyway. She’s ace, and i was moved to doodle her… In a manner of speaking.

The first ever printed edition of SKIN magazine could be yours.

Positivity is a word that springs to mind when describing my next guest on the Alt Girl botherer blog. Today I’m delighted to be able to welcome the wondrous Temptation to my pages. I was first alerted to this magnificent model’s work via my facebook page; such stunning imagery, with powerful themes and emotions running throughout. To merely call Temptation a model would be a mistake, because along with superb images she also has a magnificent message. That message being everyone of us is beautiful, and we shouldn’t be shackled by anyone else’s idea of beauty. Talking with Temptation over the course of this interview has been an uplifting experience. I’ve so enjoyed researching her work, and so enjoyed putting this article together. I hope I am able to introduce some new fans to her work, and share her positive energy with all my readers.

Welcome Temptation. It’s great to be able to feature you on my blog. How are you doing today?
I’m doing great!! It has been an absolutely beautiful day today.

Model, artist, spokesperson, mentor, mother… I could go on and on about your amazing qualities Temptation. You’re a character and personality that I had to feature on my pages. I reached out to you after being introduced to your modelling, but there is so much to talk about in this piece. I’ll jump right in and ask where the “character” of Temptation comes from? Who is this positive and powerful woman in the photographs?
“Temptation” comes from a place where I used to want to be. I wanted to be desired, wanted, yet not in the way most may take that statement. I didn’t want men to drool over me or write me dirty messages, but I wanted to be wanted. I wanted people to look at my photos and be ‘Tempted’ to put themselves out there. I wanted them to be ‘Tempted’ to show off their curves, their bodies to the world. I wanted them to be ‘Tempted’ to be bold and believe in their beauty. As I started to believe in myself and my beauty, I became more confident. I started to believe in the power within myself, the power I had to convey true confidence and self worth to others that may be lacking in those areas. 
When did your modelling journey begin? What was it that made you step in front of the camera that first time, and did you have any idea what to expect or where you wanted to go in the industry?                                                                My journey started back in 2010. I was feeling down and just really low about myself. I was trying to recover from a really bad eating disorder that I had and was having a pretty hard time. My sister has always wanted to be a photographer and the day she got her own pro camera she asked to take some photos of me. At first, I was a bit standoffish but I did it. I didn’t do it for her, or for me. I did it for other women struggling with the same issues. We looked over the photos and I was in pure shock. I LOVED them!!! They were beautiful and AMAZING! I was so proud of both of us. We continued to do these random shoots to build both of our skills and portfolios; little did I know it was also building my confidence. I started submitting my photos to different places but never thought I’d be where I am now!! Featured in 5 magazines, a few runway shows and a bunch of online publications!!!

You’ve been in the industry for over two years now, what can you remember from those first few shoots? What emotions did you experience in the lead up to your first shoot and how do you think those pictures turned out?
Oh geez!! I was soooo nervous!! It was so scary and I couldn’t really believe I was even doing it. I remember just thinking “Be pretty” “Loosen up” “Suck in your stomach” “Push out your booty” lol So many different things running through my mind. The photos actually turned out alright. They were for the NOH8 movement for gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgendered rights and I had a few featured on some different websites!

How do you feel about them term plus size model? Is it a title that bothers you as you make your way in your career, or is it more a badge of honour you wear that makes you stand out from the pack?
Well, I actually get this question a lot. The answer is simple, I am proud. I love who I am. Unlike the girl I was during my first few shoots, I love ME. I love my curves, my shape, my body… everything. And the fact of the matter is, I AM plus sized. I am curvy, I am a BBW, I am ME. I don’t mind being labelled as any of these things and when people see me doing what I do, they do see me as “That plus sized model, Temptation” and it doesn’t bother me one bit!

You’re as dextrous and agile as any model, and the body positions you’re able to achieve are wonderful. Do you do a lot of work on flexibility and posing?
I was a cheerleader for about 6 years in my teens and I’ve been able to hold on to a lot of my flexibility which is highly beneficial in my shoots actually. But, I do stretch as part of my routine before getting dressed for a shoot, just in case. I guess I never really have an exact plan of what I’m going to do, or how I’m going to pose during a shoot until I’m there and in the moment. But, I love the crazy, different poses that require a lot of skill and flexibility. 

I’ve noticed that emotion is an important weapon for you when you’re working. It’s incredible to watch you convey such strong feelings in a single frame. Do you have any performance background at all, any theatre or dramatic experience that you draw on while working?
No, I actually don’t. I am a very emotional person that can connect with any other emotion, feeling or situation presented to me, which definitely benefits me in my shoots. I’ve had shoots that are happy, where I’m literally smiling from ear to ear because of how the setting makes me feel, or shoots where the tears that you see are real because the concept of the shoot is so strong, and I literally feel all of it. I just try to feed off of the photographer, concept and situation. 

Such emotion is particularly evident in your “Kiss me to Death” shoot. This set has a real narrative to it, and every shot from it tells a story. Could you tell us a little more about that shoot? Was it a difficult state of mind to get into while shooting? What was the day like for you?
That shoot is very deep and personal for me. Someone that I love very much and was very close to is highly into drugs and is an alcoholic. They have hurt me a lot over the years but have hurt themselves even more. That shoot was to show what those things can do to you. I was drowning in the water, with a bunch of alcohol around me, wilted and dead rose petals in the water, money at the bottom of the tub and white powder on a glass tray. At first I had to take a few minutes to pull myself together because it was so powerful but once I did, my main focus was to save someone. Show them exactly how they could feel if they went down that road and by me actually living through it I was able to portray my own personal story along with these photos. It was a really emotional day, but soooo worth it!

Lush Moments Photography is a company that you have worked a number of shoots with. What is your relationship like with the guys over there? Do you bounce ideas off one another, or are you more their muse?
I have an AMAZING relationship with them. The company is actually owned by my sister and they are my favourite. We have both grown so much in a professional and personal manner. She is an awesome person and her work is ridiculously amazing!!!!! We work together on concepts and she always takes my opinion into consideration when planning shoots.

You’ve spoken many times about how you use the negativity of the world around you to get into certain moods to aid a shoot. The views and opinions within the modelling industry seem to feature regularly in your work. Can I ask what you think of the business today? Do you think there is enough equality in terms of representing different shapes, sizes and people?
Today, things are actually evolving. In the industry plus size women, clothing, shapes, sizes are coming more to the front of things, and people are starting to take notice of them. With that said, society as we know it is completely different. There are definitely people that think like I do, they have the “everyone is beautiful” state of mind but there are more of those that don’t have that quality. There is more hate that has to do with size than anything as of right now and it is heartbreaking but that is the reason I do this. I put myself out there so others can see that it is okay. It’s okay to be you and to love yourself regardless of your size, race, gender, sexual orientation, anything. I don’t know if there is enough equality as of now, but I do think we’re on our way there!
 You’ve been featured in a number of publications already Temptation, most notably Very Full Figured Magazine and Curvi Magazine. Publication and celebration is a goal for models today. What is it like for you when you see yourself in print or on sites, how do you feel knowing your work has inspired so many people?                                                                                      

Wow, well first of all it feels AMAZING. It is the best feeling to open a magazine and there I am! lol But, more than just feeling great because I’m showing the world my beauty, I feel great because I’m once again showing girls that look like me that it is okay to be you regardless. 

You’re based in Vegas, and as a foreigner over here in the UK when I think Vegas I think showgirls and burlesque. Would you say you have something of the Vegas showgirl in you? Do your surroundings influence your art at all, and what is it like living and working in the neon city?
I don’t think I have the ‘showgirl’ in me that most do, but I do think that Vegas influences and more so inspires my work. It is such a huge place with tons of opportunity and different places to shoot and work. I love it! 

There’s a distinctive message in some of your shoots Temptation, and you’re passionate in your dedication to showcasing the beauty in the world. I love how vehemently you appose negativity about appearance and weight. Is it a hard battle to face, or does the positive response your campaign generates help keep you going?
The positivity that I generate from my work and fans is so much motivation and is such a huge push that it cancels out the negativity for sure! Don’t get me wrong, I definitely get my share of hate mail but I rarely read it and I never let it affect or get to me. I love my fans!

Cosmetology is another avenue for your creativity, is it a skill that has influenced your career? Have you ever been inspired to shoot based on a technique or style you’ve created with make-up?
Oh for sure!! At the beginning I did my own make up for every shoot and actually did make up/hair for a few other plus size models. I feel like the creative side of me that loves cosmetology has played a huge part in my success. 

Do you do your own hair and make-up for shoots now? Or is it a joy to have it done for you sometimes?
It’s awesome having it done for me for once, since I spend so much time making others beautiful, but I do like to do it myself sometimes! Guess I’m kind of picky.

Another set of yours that I adore is the work you’ve done with Jessica Nichole. Particularly involving the styling and wardrobe choices of Kelley Palmer. In the pictures there is a distinct retro feel, and the style is very vintage indeed. Was that a fun shoot to be a part of; is the vintage style something you enjoy working within?
I love it!! People tell me all of the time that I should have been born in the 50’s because I love that style so much!! It was so much fun and they are both such joys to work with!

From all of your past shoots, is there a theme or style that you haven’t yet indulged in that you would really love to?
Hmm, fetish I think. I just got a few different latex items and corsets in the mail today, so I would love to shoot in those. Besides that, maybe something completely opposite and more commercial.

Yet another thing that impresses me about you and your work Temptation, is your willingness to give back and pass on your experiences. Conducting modelling workshops and speaking about your own trials and tribulations in the industry is something you’re dedicated to. What do you get out of those sessions, and where do you see that classes going? Perhaps a road show?
I get a lot of them! I feel like, if I can pass on my knowledge to another woman and help her get started in the industry, or just help her have a day where she’s pampered and made to feel beautiful, then my job is complete. I would LOVE to take Plus Size Dreams Workshop on tour eventually. That would be so much fun!

I couldn’t interview you without talking about a set of yours I refer to as “the body graffiti set”. These are the pictures where you have words such as “ugly” and “worthless” written on your skin. They are very powerful images, with a strong message behind them. Can I ask where the idea for this shoot came from? I already know it took a lot out of you to shoot, but would you revisit those emotions and tell us about posing with those words on you?                          The shoot idea came from me, I came up with the concept after I got the worst piece of hate mail I’ve gotten yet. It was horrible and although I am confident and know none of that is true, it made me sad that there were people that ignorant out there that really thought that way. So I pitched the idea to Lush Moments and we started working on it. The day of the shoot as the make up started being caked on to show a black eye, and my hair was ratted, the emotions started. It was painful to see myself look beat and battered but then the words started to get painted on my body and the tears started to flow down my cheeks. It wasn’t because I was hurt personally but I started to feel the hurt and pain from other girls. It was horrific. I felt for them and it hurt. When the second shot came around and I was able to get those words crossed off and the word “Beautiful” painted across my chest, I felt a sense of relief. I could breathe and I looked in the mirror as I have done many many times before and said “You are beautiful and you are worth it” 

The complete antithesis of the beginning of that shoot is the tattoos you actually have on your body now. There are some truly beautiful pieces, and inspiring messages. I know you must get asked about them all the time, but could you shed some light on some of your favourite designs, and what they mean to you?
Well, I have my sons name on my back which isn’t the prettiest but means a lot to me because he is my world. I also have a rose with my Mom’s name, angel wings with my baby sisters’ names, and a crown that represents my Mom’s maiden name “Crownover”. But, my favourite is my chest tattoo that says “You may think I’ve changed but I’ve just found myself” it is accompanied by a sparrow on each side that represents freedom. 

Lastly, before I let you go. It’s clear that your fans mean a great deal to you. You celebrate them on your pages, and love their feedback and interaction. Do you have a message for all of your supporters out there?
Yes, as I always tell you guys… I love you all. You area all beautiful and I believe in every single one of you. I appreciate the love and support that you have all shown me in the past few years, and I can’t image not having all of you by my side. I love sharing my journey with you so hold on, the ride isn’t over yet!!!

What projects are you working on at the moment? Where might fans be able to see your work in the near future?
I have a lot of different concepts and ideas to pitch but nothing set in stone yet except a wet shoot and a fetish shoot. But I’m always open for fan suggestions!!!

Can we please end with Bernard Pivot’s questionnaire:
What is your favourite word? Inspire
What is your least favourite word? Failure
What turns you on? Strength, Motivation, Courage
What turns you off? Laziness, bad hygiene
What is your favourite curse word? Tehehee, I curse A LOT. Uhm, I say F**K a lot. lol 
What sound or noise do you love? My son’s laugh, and my girlfriends voice
What sound or noise do you hate? My alarm in the morning! lol
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Well, I’ve already accomplished Cosmetology and I’m 1 month away from graduating Medical Assisting school, so who knows!
What profession would you not like to do? Hmm… I would hate to be a chef, or maid. lol Guess I’m not the housewife type
If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? “Welcome home, thank you for exhausting all outlets I gave you… Now enjoy your destiny, you deserve it”

It was a real treat to be able to feature Temptation and her work on my blog. I can’t thank her enough for her enthusiasm and help putting the piece together. I’m honoured to be featuring her wonderful imagery and opinions here, and urge everyone to visit the link below for more information:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/TEMPTATiON/144760672292105

http://msgrimes78.wix.com/curvifall2012#!curvi-beauty-jessica-palmer/cklj

It’s been a bit of a hiatus for me in terms of reviewing FRONT. I haven’t posted my thoughts on an issue since before Christmas. Some of that has been out of my hands, working abroad over Christmas meant I missed the first issue of 2013, but some of the reason has been down to being slightly jaded. A small portion of me looked at the start that FRONT has made to 2013 and thought “twelve months of the same thing?” Even with issue 178 in my possession (just the Rosie Jones cover) I couldn’t bring myself to really get into the magazine. This immediately gave me pause for thought. With Rosie being one of my favourite FRONT females, if I couldn’t get excited about an issue with her on the cover, when would I ever get excited? Despite another cracking Rose duet (this time with Holly), and an amazing “Kill List” offering from the destined for further greatness Rebecca Crow, issue 178 passed me by…

However, with renewed vigour, I am attacking issue 179 with trademark Alt Girl botherer spirit, and trying to revive my appreciation for FRONT magazine in 2013. It started off superbly. Not only is Arabella on the cover this month, but way up to the right, written tiny in the corner, there’s the promise of “new girls”. The end of 2012 brought with it a stellar issue of FRONT which I refer to as the Alt Girl party issue. One of the best editions of FRONT to date, and wholly focussed on new talent, with past Alt Girls (Keshia, Chelsea, Abbie Mac, etc) stealing the limelight from whomever that month’s featured model was. I took this to mean that 2013 would see a shift in power and girls like Abbie and Chelsea would have grander opportunities past page 60 (Alt Girl territory). This would leave the Alt Girl section free for fresh talent to progress the publication, and make new stars for tomorrow. While Arabella’s appearance as cover girl nixed the idea that a new face would be trusted, I was uplifted by the promise of “new girls” within.

As this is the first issue I’ve reviewed in 2013, I wanted to mention how pleased I am with the “Readers’ Shit” section. It’s great to see that FRONT has changed the mood of the arty bit of the mag, and are now featuring quality work, and leaving out all the insults. I know the insults were ingrained in FRONT’s ethos, but sometimes they were pretty harsh on some bloody talented folks. I’m glad it’s more of a celebration section now. My clear favourite is the picture of the mighty Yazz by Melissa. Awesome.

The first model feature is with Summer, a new contributor to FRONT and undoubtedly an incredible beauty. Perfect skin and an expert practitioner of the back arch, but Summer didn’t really set my world on fire. The “Full Frontal” section, as it was, usually showcased the edgier more adventurous shoots in the mag that month. Now redubbed the “Kill List” I don’t see the same ideals being upheld. Again, I must stress that Summer is a mindblowingly gorgeous lady, and her double page spread that ends the feature on pages 20 and 21 is a highlight. However, I don’t really see what made her FRONT material. It’s not enough to just always have petit white females guys. Surely there has to be some edge, or something ALTERNATIVE to the girls featured. Or is that just me?

Moving on, I love the collaboration of FRONT and Sin Star (seen on page 22/23). Some fantastic tees have been produced, and I for one will be purchasing my Seren shirt post haste… They’re unisex right?

Hannah Martin continues her appearances in the “Tested” section of the mag on page 42. Hannah has been a sort of Marmite model for FRONT over the years, with people either loving or not being fussed on her work. It’s great to see her back, the last I heard she was doing well on the phone-in girl channels, but her cameo in this and the last issue were nice reminders of FRONT’s past. I don’t know if this is a hint at a return to feature model status for Hannah, but if it is, there had better be a kick-ass premise lined up; because we’ve seen lost of Hannah’s work and it doesn’t vary majorly.

Stuff I want from the “Stuff” section: That army man bottle opener and those bullet ear buds.

Gemma Edwards made her return to the Alt Girl section photography duties this month, and while Ed Godden did a good job last month, it was a pleasure to see Gemma back. I was also excited by new girl Seany, who I thought did marvellously in her debut appearance. I got a preview of the shots on facebook before I bought my copy, and was actually inspired to part with my money based on the sneak peek at these images alone. Seany is a very welcome addition to the FRONT family, and I really hope she reappears.

In customary Alt Girl fashion, we are treated to a striptease guide around (I guess) Seany’s bedroom. I love how the shots are lit, and we’re treated to every facet of the model’s wonderful display. From the selection of imagery on pages 54 and 55, I think the display of flexibility at the top right corner of 55 is my favourite. But look quickly at these pictures and you’ll miss some very interesting details. The intricacy of Seany’s tattoos for one, and her ever so subtle nose ring for another. The photographer’s attention to detail, framing, and of course Seany’s wonderful performance are a joy. Well worth ruminating on for a while.

Pages 56 and 57 continue the strip down. The transition of disrobing tells its own story, but so too does Seany’s performance. She visibly gets more and more comfortable as the shoot goes on, and fantastic images are the result. I really enjoyed her incredible smile and body shape in the last shot of 57, but even more tantalising is the shot that precedes it on the same page. As Seany removes her last item of clothing, the indentation of her underwear accentuates her curvaceous posterior, and really adds some intrigue to what might have been an overlooked shot.

Overall there is some terrific work from both model and photographer in this series. I know I frequently wax lyrical about Gemma’s work for FRONT, but it’s with obvious reason. Such masterful staging and positioning is a talent that always elevates implied nude shoots. It’s the very reason that I find implied work that much more fascinating than topless. Great work that once again threatens the main model shoot for superiority.

The Alt Girl D.I.Y section is a big let down for me personally. Again, I’m not besmirching the girls featured at all, they are all stunning and I wish them every success. But there are at least four interchangeable models in there, taking up spaces that could surely be used by more interesting girls? I alluded to it earlier, petit, blonde, a hint of a tattoo… This shouldn’t automatically grant you a place in FRONT. There must be more suitable/interesting/different entries sent in? Or am I just out of touch with the rest of the readership?

Leaping from model set to model set, we come to Arabella’s contribution to the issue. Who doesn’t love Arabella? Out of all the FRONT females that have graced the mag’s pages, I don’t think I’ve ever heard a bad word about her work. Rightfully so I might add. Not only an incredibly attractive lady, but with a real edge and vibrancy to her. Not to mention a killer sense of humour, as witnessed in her weekly column. If there is a downside for me with this set though, it’s that I really don’t get the whole fascination with trainers. I know I’m in the minority here, and FRONT has been putting sexy women in fancy “sneakers” for years, but does it still make for a good shoot after so many versions of the same theme?

It’s a personal quibble I admit. Not being mad on trainers shouldn’t preclude me from enjoying the set, but it does a bit. Particularly when it’s Arabella in the trainers, as I’m sure she’s done something extremely similar for FRONT in the past. Am I wrong? It may not have been such a blatant sneaker showcase previously, but I really get the impression her feet and what’s on them have been the focus more than once before. But anyway…

A sultry look to camera works wonders in her first shot on page 81. I love how her lashes are accentuated, and her hair falls haphazardly across her breasts. With an arm extended we get a glimpse of her now trademark ink, but this image is all about her eyes. They drew me in, and I turned the page expectedly…

On page 83 there is a great shot with Arabella’s tilted head looking off camera and she’s bathed in hazy sunlight. I’m not sure if I’m such a fan of this shot because there’s no trainers in it (petty I know), or if it’s the slight scowl on the model’s face. I am a sucker for a scowl. On pages 84 and 85 we get a microcosm of what this shoot is all about. Firstly, blasphemously, trainers cover fifty percent of Arabella’s face. An obstruction I could do without. Along with the shoes, the second feature of the set is obvious. That being Arabella’s backside. It’s one of the best backsides in the business, and deservedly showcased, but this double page spread takes too much away from Arabella for me. It’s like a shoe advert with added ass (a theme that runs from here on in).

There’s something special about Arabella decked out in running-ish gear on 86. I’m not 100% sure what it is, but maybe the completely alien costume is part of it. We don’t regularly see Arabella being sporty, and maybe it’s a consideration for future shoots? The classic “trainers tied across the shoulders and draped over boobs shot” is seen on 87. The number of girls who took the same picture of themselves in the instagram feature on pages 26 and 27 might hint at how played out it is. But I am a fan of the lip bite that Arabella adds.

The set ends on pages 92 and 93 with a double spread. I was actually impressed with this shot as it’s something a little inventive. The semicircle of trainers with Arabella’s feet in different ones… It’s different, and kudos go to whoever though it up. The playful biting of the lace adds a nice touch from Arabella, and of course her perfect skin and figure are a constant source of happy throughout.

Last impressions and little things from the issue: What a waste of ice cream in the shower gel feature on page 116. I really liked Seain Way’s tattoo on page 121. Loved the model in the Pieute Clothing advert on page 132… I think that’s everything.

A mixed bag of an issue as is regularly the case these days. Also regularly the case is the Alt Girl section’s superiority. I would have enjoyed Arabella’s shoot more if the theme or concept was something new. But again, that’s another regular gripe I have with FRONT features (last time, Rosie Jones draped in Americana. It’s been done countless times). For my first 2013 review I feel a little deflated with the issue. But I had a blast writing it, and as always, these are just my opinions. My reviews are designed to improve a magazine I’ve read for years, not just badmouth it. So I hope my thoughts are appreciated and my views are taken as they are meant… which is constructively.

Thanks.    

John Lou Miles’ images of Lass are sublime. I highly suggest visiting this link and enjoying.

Oh yeah… and i’ll be working on a Kindle picture-book with the mighty Dita von Teese… no biggy (FUCKINGAWESOMENESS!!!!).

My support for the almighty Small Victory Clothing continues today with a post about their new “Lord Victor Foxtrot” plugs.

As regular readers will know by now I’m a huge fan of Small Victory Clothing, and will promote their new wears whenever possible. After a heads-up from company maestro Krys, I’ve been moved to publish this little advert for a new item that’s available for pre-order.

This time SV has ventured into acrylic plugs and are looking to produce some incredible pieces of jewellery/accessories, indelibly etched with the now signature illustrations that have lit up their online catalogue (as well as the wardrobes of lucky customers all over). The pieces I am waxing lyrical about today stem from the success of their “Foxtrot” range of tees and crewneck sweatshirts, brought to us by Deer Hunter.

The Lord Victor Foxtrot character has sparked the imagination of many fans of the brand since it’s incarnation on other items of clothing last year. These plugs mark a new direction for Small Victory, and a creative avenue that will see other favourite SV designs transferred onto these very cool ear adornments in the near future (stay tuned for news on other designs coming soon).

Sizes are available from 6-30mm, with custom sizes that don’t appear easily catered for. So get pre-ordering now for your chance to be one of the first to own what is sure to be a sort after item. I urge you all to head to the links below for more information and access to Small Victory Clothing’s entire catalogue.

Happy shopping:

http://smallvictory.bigcartel.com

http://smallvictory.bigcartel.com/product/lord-victor-foxtrot-plugs-pre-order

https://www.facebook.com/smallvictoryclothing

https://twitter.com/_SmallVictory_

http://smallvictoryclothing.tumblr.com

I don’t re-blog often, but when the fabulous Carmin Conner is involved i feel compelled to. Especially with this enchanting set. Stay tuned to this blog for a full promo of SKIN magazine issue 5. Carmin’s labour of love, and a publication i’m thrilled to write for (http://www.facebook.com/skin.mag).

(Source: funeraltwiggy)