Fall 2025 Fashion Issue (2)

FALL 2025 | VOL. 1 Welcome Black FALL FASHION ISSUE Meet Fashion’s Prince +Yves St. Laurent Protégé Kenny “Kas” Flanagan Meet Fashion’s Prince +Yves St. Laurent Protégé Kenny “Kas” Flanagan

LeslieMonetILLUMINANCE MAGAZINE | FALL 2025 | VOL. 1 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR connect purpose and maintain divine provision that only Our Creator can provide in the most challenging moments of life in general. While you may make it look easy to do what you do, how you do it, “finishing” is nothing short of a miracle. Finish strong by starving your distractions. As I write this message, I realize the holy spirit promises to fill the negative space that would otherwise become the devil’s playground – filled with doubts, insecurities and anxieties which would otherwise be vanquished by keeping your eyes on God. This issue is dedicated to encouraging the unknown artist, designer, writer or other ministry that we all are imprinted with when we are born on this magnificent earth. In a time where A.I. presents the question of hierarchy in the information, business or art sectors, one must always recall the greatest gift of all...The gift of purpose and will-power to ascend from belief, to faith, to knowing that all’s well that ends well. This issue is the epitome of God fulfilling His promise to me! Let this issue present to you a first-hand testimony and affidavit of the power of The Most High. When your “opps” slither and slide with contradiction, confusion or chaos, stand firm and keep thine eyes upon the hills of prosperity and pure peace. Asé ow! We made it to a 360° circle. This issue represents the strength, perseverance and determination it takes to do what you love,

INTERNATIONAL SPOTLIGHT: AUSTRALIA’S TINA ARENA......................................................................................P. 7 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH FUNK ARTIST AND PRODUCER: SATORI SHAKOOR......................................P. 9 SOPHIA MARIE: FLORIDA’S FLOWER SONGSTRESS BLOOMS BEYOND THE SURFACE..........................P. 11 GLOBAL GOSPEL SENSATION JEKALYN RELEASES NEW ALBUM.....................................................................P. 12 “ALSO KNOWN AS AFRICA”: THE ART EXHIBIT’S 10 ANNIVERSARY IN FRANCE.....................................P. 15T H COVER STORY: YVES ST. LAURENT PROTOGÉ KENNY “KAS” FLANAGAN.................................................... P. 29 EXPERT BYLINE: SHENIKA QUATTLEBAUM’S TIPS FOR AUTUMN GLAM.........................................................P.32 ASTRO -WEATHER UPDATE.................................................................................................................................................P. 38 CELEBRITY NYFW APPEARANCES: ACTRESS MEAGAN GOODE’S PRIVATE VIEWING..............................P. 39THE CONT ENTS ILLUMINANCEMAG.COM

THE MONTE-CARLO CIGAR CLUB: A TEMPLE OF TASTE AND TRADITION WORDS BY MOINARD BÉTAILLEOn May 28, 2025, the Monte-Carlo Cigar Club opened within the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo, adding a new chapter to the principality’s legacy of luxury. Created by Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM) and design visionaries Bruno Moinard and Claire Bétaille, the club stands as both sanctuary and statement—a place where heritage meets hedonism beneath the gilded touch of Charles Garnier’s architecture. Following One Monte-Carlo and the renowned wine cellar of the Hôtel de Paris, this collaboration between Moinard Bétaille and SBM once again celebrates refinement as an art form. Conceived as one of the most exclusive cigar clubs in the world, it invites its members into an atmosphere where design, craftsmanship, and ritual converge.From the vestibule onward, guests are enveloped in a world of quiet opulence. Tobacco-hued walls, fine stone, and warm wood create a sensory threshold leading toward the smoking lounge, glimpsed through tall glass panels. Pleated leather columns and mirrored surfaces echo the Casino’s historic moldings, giving the illusion of boundless depth and movement—an environment that feels at once intimate and eternal. The smoking lounge and bar form the heart of this experience. Patinated leather armchairs and low tables invite unhurried conversation, while a wall of individual cigar lockers—each crafted from precious wood and locked by its member’s key—serves as both design and devotion. At its center stands a grand locker reserved for the Prince, a discreet nod to Monaco’s enduring sense of ceremony. p. 5culture news

illuminance magazine | Vol. 1 Fall 2025 Where craftsmanship meets conversation, luxury becomes a ritual. Where craftsmanship meets conversation, luxury becomes a ritual.Beyond this, the bar glows like a modern altar: a long onyx counter flanked by leather stools and crowned by a shimmering display of whiskies, cognacs, and rums. Two towering columns, shaped like giant cigars and lined with illuminated glass cases, pay playful homage to the passion that inspired the space. Through elegant French doors, the lounge and bar extend to a private terrace with sweeping views of the Mediterranean. The sea’s deep blue merges with the greenery of potted palms and plants, seamlessly continuing the interior’s palette into the Riviera’s natural grandeur. The most pampered guests, however, are the cigars themselves. Just beyond the entrance lies the humidor, a climate- controlled jewel box accessible from both the club and casino. Inside, the world’s finest cigars rest in custom cabinetry— curated, preserved, and waiting to be savored. In every detail, the Monte-Carlo Cigar Club reflects SBM’s devotion to timeless artistry. It is not merely a venue, but a mood—a cultivated escape for those who appreciate discretion, conversation, and the beauty of ritual. Set like a gem in the heart of Monte-Carlo, this new haven redefines indulgence, offering a single, enduring promise: within its walls, the art of living burns slow and bright. www.moinard-betaille.com

THE NEXT CHAPTER THE NEXT CHAPTER “ T H I S N E X T A R T I S T I C C H A P T E R I S A B O U T F R E E D O M , C R E A T I V I T Y A N D S H A R I N G M Y T R U T H A N D E X P E R I E N C E S O N M Y O W N T E R M S A N D W A N T M Y B E A U T I F U L L O Y A L F A N S T O C E L E B R A T E W I T H M E ” T I N A A R E N A I L L U M I N A N C E M A G A Z I N E F A L L 2 0 2 5

Australia’s most enduring and beloved musical icon, Tina Arena was honoured in Canberra by the National Portrait Gallery, who unveiled a newly commissioned portrait by acclaimed photographer Georges Antoni. The striking diptych images capture Tina’s unmistakable presence, strength and character, celebrating her extraordinary 50- year contribution to music and culture both at home and abroad. As part of the evening, Tina Arena surprised guests with an intimate live performance, premiering two striking reinterpretations: Max Q’s “Way of the World” and New Order’s “True Faith.” She was joined on stage by her collaborators, ARIA Award- winning producer Francois Tétaz (Gotye, Kimbra) and acclaimed pianistcomposer Luke Howard (Royal Ballet, Lior). Both tracks will feature on her forthcoming EP, the inaugural release on her newly launched imprint, POSITIVE DREAM Records. It marks an ambitious and exciting new era titled TINA 5.0 – a celebration of her 50 years in music and performance. Spanning 2026 and 2027, TINA 5.0 will include: A series of domestic and international tours. The forthcoming new EP and other upcoming releases. A deeply personal documentary chronicling her life and career. Tina Arena shares, “It’s hard to believe it’s been fifty years since I first stepped into the spotlight at just eight years old as a contestant on Young Talent Time. To have that journey honoured by the National Portrait Gallery is incredibly special. But what excites me most is that there is still so much more to come. This next artistic chapter is about freedom, creativity and sharing my truth and experiences on my own terms and want my beautiful loyal fans to celebrate with me”. With a career spanning charttopping hits, award-winning albums and unforgettable live performances, Tina Arena continues to inspire generations of fans around the world. TINA 5.0 will cement her legacy as one of Australia’s most powerful voices and storytellers, while heralding an exciting future filled with music, passion and possibility TINA ARENA TALKS NEW CHAPTER CELEBRATING 50 ANNIVERSARY WITH PORTRAIT UNVEILED, NEW MUSIC, NEW LABEL TH MEET TINA ARENA “IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE IT’S BEEN FIFTY YEARS SINCE I FIRST STEPPED INTO THE SPOTLIGHT AT JUST EIGHT YEARS OLD AS A CONTESTANT ON YOUNG TALENT TIME.” I L L U M I N A N C E M A G A Z I N E p. 8 I N T E R N A T I O N A L S P O T L I G H T

SATORI SHAKOOR REWRITES THE RULES OF AGE AND ART SATORI SHAKOOR REWRITES THE RULES OF AGE AND ART Satori Shakoor has lived many creative lives—and each one has deepened her power as a storyteller. From electrifying stages alongside George Clinton and Parliament/Funkadelic as one of the original Brides of Funkenstein to becoming an acclaimed performer, producer, and truth-teller, her artistry has always been rooted in fearless transformation. “Those early experiences taught me to claim my space,” Shakoor reflects. “Performing in a world where funk was liberation gave me the courage to find my own voice and use it to tell stories that matter.” That voice has evolved into a force of cultural reflection, bridging music, comedy, and theater to explore what it means to be fully, unapologetically human. At the heart of her newest project, Confessions of a Menopausal Femme Fatale, Shakoor channels that same fearless spirit into a bold, comedic storytelling concert film that dismantles taboos around aging, womanhood, and sexuality. “Performing in a world where funk was liberation gave me the courage to find my own voice and use it to tell stories that matter.”ILLUMINANCE MAGAZINE | FALL 2025 INTERVIEW

Menopause isn’t the ending people think it is. ILLUMINANCE MAGAZINE | FALL 2025 Follow Satori Shakoor Instagram: [@SatoriShakoor] “Menopause isn’t the ending people think it is,” she laughs. “It’s transformation. It’s freedom. It’s rediscovery.” With sharp wit and tender candor, Shakoor reclaims the narrative for women navigating their own second acts—turning vulnerability into a celebration of vitality. She hopes audiences walk away from Confessions not only laughing but seeing themselves anew. “I want women to know they are not invisible. We don’t stop being sensual, powerful, or creative because society says so. And I want men to see that too—to understand that this phase of life is radiant, not reduced. ”Beyond the stage, Shakoor continues to lead with intention. Recently joining Halle Berry and Governor Gretchen Whitmer for a private dialogue on women’s healthcare, she brought her trademark authenticity to a critical conversation about access, equity, and representation. “Real change begins with honest dialogue,” she notes. “If we can’t speak truth to our own experiences, how do we expect the system to listen?” Balancing her creative and entrepreneurial worlds has become both art and calling. “The businesswoman in me protects the artist in me,” she says. “It’s how I make sure the work survives—and serves.” With her distinctive mix of humor, wisdom, and heart, Satori Shakoor continues to redefine what it means to age out loud. Her story is one of resilience, renaissance, and radical joy—a reminder that the truest form of rebellion is reinvention. INTERVIEW

SOPHIA MARIE: FLORIDA’S FLOWER SONGSTRESS BLOOMS BEYOND THE SURFACEBThere’s a fresh pulse rising from South Florida’s music scene—and its rhythm belongs to Sophia Marie, a 20-year-old singer-songwriter whose voice carries both warmth and edge. Born in New York and raised between two worlds of sound, Sophia discovered her passion for performing at just eight years old. What began as childhood curiosity quickly evolved into a calling.Blending pop, alt-pop, and smooth R&B, Sophia’s music feels like sunrise after rain —emotive, effortless, and unmistakably hers. Her breakout singles “Top” (235K streams) and “Take It Slow” (500K+ streams) mark the arrival of an artist ready to chart her own course. Co- written with Joaquin Diaz—collaborator of Grammy winner Romeo Santos—the songs reveal both lyrical maturity and a flair for melody. I L L U M I N A N C E M A G A Z I N E | F A L L 2 0 2 5 NEW ARTIST SPOTLIGHTSophia’s collaborations include work with Grammy-nominated producers Rafinha RSQ (Anitta, Karol G, Thalía) and Luis Salazar (Luis Fonsi, Maluma), and her tracks have been polished by Grammy- nominated engineers Pedro Peixto and Filli Filloza (Doja Cat, SZA). Now, as she hones her distinctive style and builds her digital presence, Sophia Marie stands at the threshold of something luminous—crafting a sound that bridges emotion, identity, and undeniable star power.

Read more of her forthcoming album, JEKALYN X LEGENDS. The project marks a powerful celebration of faith, legacy, and the unifying force of gospel music. JEKALYN X LEGENDS will be available everywhere music is sold and streamed on Friday, November 7, 2025, and is available now for presave. With JEKALYN X LEGENDS, Carr continues to solidify her standing as one of the most dynamic voices in gospel, curating a collection that bridges generations by featuring collaborations with some of the genre’s most celebrated trailblazers. Known for her commanding vocals, prophetic anointing, and ability to inspire hope through music, Carr delivers an album that promises to uplift hearts, stir souls, and create timeless worship moments. “I’ve always believed in honoring those who paved the way,” says Carr. GOSPEL GRAMMY WINNER HONORS LEGENGS WITH NEW ALBUM ayNorth Music’s GRAMMY® Award winning, Stellar and GMA DOVE Award-winning artist, Jekalyn Carr, announces the release date

PHOTOS BY: BRENDAN WALTER 1. Legends Intro ft. Dr. Bobby Jones 2. He Don’t Miss ft. Dorinda Clark- Cole & Dottie Peoples 3. I Break 4. I Will Come Through ft. Yolanda Adams 5. Don’t Faint ft. John P. Kee 6. Don't Faint Melody 7. History (Breakthrough) ft. Shirley Caesar, Harvey Watkins Jr. & Karen Clark- Sheard 8. I Love You Ft. Lisa Page Brooks & Kim Burrell 9. You Are Able Ft. Bebe Winans & The Williams Brothers 10. I Am Happy 11. There Must Be A Miracle 12. Don’t Faint (Bonus Track) MUSIC NEWS JEKÁLYN X THE LEGENGS ALBUM ILLUMINANCE MAGAZINE | VOLUME I | FALL 2025 T R A C K L I S T “JEKALYN X LEGENDS is not just an album—it’s a tribute to the voices and sounds that shaped gospel music, while also showing how the message continues to move forward today. I can’t wait for the world to experience what we’ve created together.” The album follows Carr’s string of chart-topping singles and critically acclaimed projects, further cementing her reputation as a gospel trailblazer with a voice and ministry that transcends generations. Fans can expect a body of work filled with passionate worship, powerful declarations, and collaborations that highlight the beauty of gospel’s rich legacy. Carr can also be heard weekdays on Atlanta’s Praise 102.5 as the host of her midday show “Jekalyn Carr Family Affair Show.” Follow Jekalyn Carr on social media using the handle @JekalynCarr, visiting Facebook and on her website at: IAMJekalynCarr.com.

Samuel Nnorom Courtesy Primo Marella GalleryF A L L 2 0 2 5I L L U M I N A N C E M A G A Z I N E ALSO KNOWN AS AFRICA RETURNS FOR 10 ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION IN FRANCE TH ALSO KNOWN AS AFRICA RETURNS FOR 10 ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION IN FRANCE TH ART & DESIGN FAIR 24 - 26 OCTOBRE

Serge Mouangue is an artist, designer, and thinker born in Yaoundé, Cameroon, and trained in France His life journey across Africa, Europe, and Asia has shaped an artistic practice that is deliberately cross-cultural and boundary-defying. Now based in Japan, he has found in its culture an unexpected reflection of his West African roots. His coming of age in Japan proved transformative: « Living and working in Japan brought me closer to Africa. The Japanese carry a part of Africa within them. » Through his project Wafrica, he merges the formal elegance of the Japanese kimono with African textiles and visual rhythms, crafting a bold aesthetic that transcends traditional frameworks. His perspective is outward- looking, driven by the desire to open new dialogues: « When we speak of African creativity, we often look inward. I choose to look outward. » Mouangue’s work has been exhibited in major institutions in New York, Paris, London, Tokyo, Zurich and Dakar. Through beauty, ritual, and form, his art explores the idea of identity. His immersive, often monumental pieces weave together spirituality, memory, and contemporary vision in a language that is at once deeply personal and univer- sally resonant. « African creativity is often viewed from the inside. I choose to look beyond. » Serge Mouangue Courtesy space Un Once again this year, AKAA renews its commitment to immer- sive and spectacular forms of contemporary art by presen- ting a monumental, never-before-seen, installation by Serge Mouangue, represented by gallery space Un (Tokyo), in the central aisle of the Carreau du Temple. Conceived as a work of art in its own right, this installation will, invite visitors to slow down, contemplate, and journey through a universe imbued with spirituality, symbols, and silence. It promises to be imposing, poetic, and deeply rooted in a dia- logue between cultures, materials, and memory. 15

illuminance magazine | fall 2025 p. 16

Joël Bigaignon Courtesy LIS10 Gallery illuminance magazine | fall 2025

Terry Aidoo Courtesy Festival DiverCity illuminance magazine | fall 2025

Catheris Mondombo Courtesy Galerie Angalia p. 19

Gavin Goodman Courtesy Filafriques illuminance magazine | fall 2025

Abongile Sidzumo Courtesy Loo and Lou Gallery illuminance magazine | fall 2025

Riley Holloway Courtesy Backslash Gallery illuminance magazine | fall 2025

Terence Maluleke Courtesy BKhz illuminance magazine | fall 2025

Atsoupé Courtesy Galerie Anne de Villepoix illuminance magazine | fall 2025 p. 24

Stevens Dossou-Yovo Courtesy Galerie Olivier Waltman illuminance magazine | fall 2025

King Houndekpinkou Courtesy Galerie Vallois illuminance magazine | fall 2025

Serge Mouangue Courtesy space Un illuminance magazine | fall 2025

FASHIONFASHION I L L U M I N A N C E M A G A Z I N E F A L L 2 0 2 5 | V O L . I NYFW FEATURE Meagan Goode attends private viewing p. 40 “ F A S H I O N S F A D E , S T Y L E I S E T E R N A L . ” – Y V E S S A I N T L A U R E N T COVER STORY Celebrity Fashion Designer, Kenny “Kas” Flanagan p. 29 28

COVER STORY ILLUMINANCE MAGAZINE | FALL 2025 For more than three decades, Kenny Kas has been a defining force in American couture—a designer whose aesthetic has not only redefined red carpet glamour but reshaped the cultural architecture of luxury itself. Known to many as America’s Prince of Fashion, Kas’s legacy stretches beyond fabric and silhouette; it is stitched into the emotional and cultural identity of an entire generation. “Legacy,” Kas reflects, “isn’t about the runways I’ve conquered—it’s about the lives I’ve touched. It’s about the young designer of color who sees themselves in me and knows they belong, not on the margins but at the center.” That ethos—of visibility, empowerment, and redefinition—has become the thread that ties his extraordinary career together. From his formative years under Yves Saint Laurent, to becoming the first African American male couture designer featured at Saks Fifth Avenue, Kas has navigated fashion’s elite corridors with both artistry and defiance. PHOTOGRAPHER: @NORMANEJONES NORMAN E. JONESMEET KENNY “KAS”FLANAGAN INTERVIEWER: LESLIE MONET “Meeting Yves was a masterclass,” Kas recalls. “He taught me that fashion could be poetic, political, and deeply personal. Luxury wasn’t about excess—it was about intention, craft, and storytelling.” But mentorship was only part of his formation. The true alchemy of Kas’s career was forged in the rooms where he was often the only one who looked like him. “Getting into Saks was monumental,” he says. “Not just for me, but for every designer who had been told ‘no’ without ever being truly seen. That moment vindicated years of grit and a refusal to compromise my vision.” His creative evolution—from Paris ateliers to Hollywood stages— cemented his reputation as a designer who transcends fashion. His garments have graced icons from Rihanna and Alicia Keys to Snoop Dogg, Toni Braxton, The Rock, and Kevin Hart, each collaboration a statement of shared authenticity. “I’m not dressing a body,” he explains. “I’m dressing a spirit—a presence. What connects them all is truth. My design philosophy has always been about honoring individuality. When someone steps out wearing my work and feels seen, that’s the alchemy I live for.”

p. 30 I wanted garments that amplify individuality rather than mute it. People are ready to wear who they are, not who society tells them to be.” - Kenny “Kas “ Flanagan“ Kas’s latest collection, “Welcome Black,” is more than couture—it’s a manifesto. “‘Welcome Black’ was born out of reverence and resistance,” he says. “It’s a love letter to the ancestors and a challenge to the present. We are not asking for permission to enter the room —we are the architecture of the room.” The collection merges ancestral memory with futuristic imagination: raw silks and metallics meet regal tailoring and divine silhouettes. “The design process was spiritual,” he says. “I began with sound—African drums, jazz, protest chants—and moved through texture and form. The silhouettes reflect the duality of the Black experience: elegance forged in fire, grace carved out of survival.” Each piece in “Welcome Black” is, as Kas puts it, “luxury with intent.” It’s couture that honors story as much as style. “I want wearers to feel a shift,” he says. “Not just in how they look, but in how they stand. When someone wears this collection, they are not simply adorned —they are armored. This isn’t about trend; it’s about truth. You are royalty. You are the moment. You are welcomed —not back—but Black.” While “Welcome Black” celebrates cultural lineage, Kas’s W.E.T. collection boldly challenges the notion of gender itself. “W.E.T. was born from both observation and frustration,” he explains. “Fashion should expand us, not shrink us. Too often, it’s been used to enforce binary rules that are outdated—and boring.” His vision for W.E.T. is not “unisex” minimalism, but liberation through expression. “I wanted garments that amplify individuality rather than mute it. People are ready to wear who they are, not who society tells them to be.” Kas’s tailoring philosophy transforms under this principle. “When you stop designing for gender and start designing for energy, everything changes,” he says. “A cinched waist can mean power. A strong shoulder can mean vulnerability. It’s all about intention, not anatomy.” Runway presentations for W.E.T. unfold like ritual rather than spectacle —models selected not by size or gender but by aura. “Fashion, when freed from boxes,” Kas adds, “becomes pure storytelling. W.E.T. is couture for the now and the next. It’s about exceptional taste—and even more, exceptional freedom.” Read more

COVER STORY ILLUMINANCE MAGAZINE | FALL 2025 THE ARCHITECT OF MODERN GLAMOUR DEFINING SUCCESS, REDIFINIG LEGACY Every piece becomes both armor and altar. “I’m not here to assimilate,” Kas asserts. “I’m here to amplify. My work is about reclaiming luxury for the very people whose culture built it but who were never allowed to wear it. When someone steps into one of my pieces, I want them to feel powerful, centered, and undeniable. That’s fashion with purpose.” With countless honors and global recognition, Kas’s sense of success has evolved from achievement to impact. “The older I get,” he reflects, “the more I understand that success isn’t a spotlight —it’s a ripple. It’s in the quiet messages from young creatives who tell me they finally feel like they belong. It’s in the way someone stands taller because of what they’re wearing.” For Kas, fashion has always been about transformation—of perception, of culture, and of self. “I want to be remembered not just for what I made, but for what I made possible,” he says. “If my work opens doors for others—if it shifts even a small part of the culture toward more freedom, more truth—then I’ve succeeded beyond any award.” INSTAGRAM: @KASLIFESTYLE Kenny Kas’s influence has long extended beyond fashion’s aesthetic realm. For him, couture is a form of cultural activism. “Couture is visibility,” he says. “When people of color—whose stories were historically excluded from those stages —step into couture, it’s not just a style moment. It’s sovereignty.” Every piece becomes both armor and altar. “I’m not here to assimilate,” Kas asserts. “I’m here to amplify. My work is about reclaiming luxury for the very people whose culture built it but who were never allowed to wear it. When someone steps into one of my pieces, I want them to feel powerful, centered, and undeniable. That’s fashion with purpose.” Kenny Kas’s influence has long extended beyond fashion’s aesthetic realm. For him, couture is a form of cultural activism. “Couture is visibility,” he says. “When people of color—whose stories were historically excluded from those stages —step into couture, it’s not just a style moment. It’s sovereignty.” ACTIVISM THROUGH ARTISTRY

Read More on Page 32HIGHFALLING FOR BEAUTY: S C H E N I K A Q U A T T L E B A U M ’ S G U I D E T O A U T U M N G L A M Aor richer, moodier fall palettes. For Schenika Quattlebaum, CEO of Natalia Me’Gan Beauty, the shift in seasons is more than just a chance to swap bronzer for berry tones—it’s a reminder that beauty can be bold, timeless, and empowering. This fall, Quattlebaum isn’t just releasing new products—she’s shaping the conversation on what modern beauty looks like. Fresh off appearances on Elle and Cosmopolitan and a massive New York Fashion Week Times Square billboard, she’s proving that indie brands can make a major impact while staying true to their values. “I want women to feel like their makeup works as hard as they do,” she says. s the leaves turn and the air sharpens, makeup lovers everywhere are trading sun-kissed summer looks H A C K E D : F A L L B E A U T Y T R E N D S

“Beauty should never feel high- maintenance —it should feel like you.” The new Natalia Me’Gan Beauty fall lineup reflects that philosophy. Her must-have Matte Liquid Lip delivers a smooth, lightweight punch of color that won’t smudge, even during pumpkin-spice latte marathons. To lock in lip looks, the high- pigment, waterproof liner adds definition without drying, while the Cherry Balm keeps lips soft and hydrated against October winds. And for brows that frame the face without fuss? The dual- ended pencil and brush creates a natural finish that lasts through every coffee run and late-night meeting. But it’s the Duo Double Jelly Lip Scrub and Mask that Quattlebaum calls the “unsung hero” of fall beauty. “PEOPLE UNDERESTIMATE HOW MUCH COLDER WEATHER AFFECTS THE SKIN ON YOUR LIPS. EXFOLIATE GENTLY, HYDRATE DEEPLY, AND YOUR LIPSTICK WILL THANK YOU” - SCHENIKA QUATTLEBAUM Conversely, if your look is minimalist— like an all-black turtleneck and trousers—go for a statement lip in plum or crimson. Don’t forget skin as part of the style. A dewy finish with well-moisturized skin complements fall layers and keeps your look fresh, not heavy. Think head-to-toe harmony. A softly defined brow, structured trench coat, and sleek boots give the same polished energy—proving that beauty and fashion are best when they work together. If you’re craving excitingly designed fashion looks for fall, consider stopping by www.thekennykas.com for Kenny Kas’s new Welcome Black collection. Or, if you’re hunting for the perfect handbag to pair with your autumn wardrobe, visit www.youmakethebag.com to complete the look. Finally, for all things beauty stop by www.NataliaMBeauty.com A G U I D E T O A U T U M N G L A M “People underestimate how much colder weather affects the skin on your lips. Exfoliate gently, hydrate deeply, and your lipstick will thank you,” she says with a laugh. Pairing Fall Beauty with Fashion: Schenika’s Tips for a Complete Look Match bold lips with cozy textures. A deep wine lip against a chunky knit sweater or tailored wool coat creates instant sophistication without looking overdone. Use your makeup as an accessory. Metallic copper or bronze eyeshadow pairs beautifully with warm leather boots or gold- toned jewelry. Balance color with structure. If your outfit features vibrant plaids or jewel tones, opt for a neutral matte lip to let the clothes shine. p. 33

Instagram @mark_thagreat42 Mark “Tha Great” Beamon brings a powerful intersection of fitness, mental wellness, and visibility. A former personal trainer turned model and on- camera personality, Mark has been vocal about his personal growth journey, using fitness and faith as his outlet. Standing tall at 6'1 - and 180 lbs - Mark’s background includes campaigns with PUMA and Nike x Men’s Health, and not to mention, his fluency in ASL—adding inclusive representation to this conversation. “Mental health is like air—you don’t notice it until you’re suffocating. I’ve been through depression, doubt, and isolation. I’ve had moments where I didn’t see a future. But I made a choice—to get up, to lift myself physically, emotionally, and spiritually. For me, mental health is about discipline and faith. I work out not just for my body, but for my mind. I pray. I mentor others. I show up because I know what it feels like to almost disappear. And I won’t go back.” p. 34MEN’S HEALTH FEATURE ILLUMINANCE MAGAZINE | FALL 2025M A R K

As a television personality and actor, Mark “The Great” Beamon has become a recognizable face in reality and scripted TV. He gained national attention with appearances on Bravo’s hit reality series Married to Medicine, bringing his charismatic presence to the screen. Expanding into scripted content, Mark secured a guest role on BET+’s drama All the Queen’s Men, and he has appeared on VH1 (Viacom)’s pop-culture staple Love & Hip Hop. These television credits have raised his profile as an up-and-coming TV personality. Mark’s mix of on-camera confidence and genuine charm led one senior TV executive to describe him as an “unstoppable talent… a trendsetter with fashion-forward, bold energy”, in an Instagram feature announcing his signing. With a tall, athletic build, Mark excels as both a commercial and editorial model. His modeling portfolio includes work with renowned photographers like Tarrice Love and AJAA Image, producing striking images featured in online galleries. He has modeled for lifestyle brands and designers – from urban clothing line OloveLL Clothing to fitness apparel shoots. In 2022, Mark was the face of a Men’s Health x Nike Training campaign, combining his fitness expertise (he is a certified personal trainer) with his camera appeal. He’s walked showrooms and appeared in lookbooks at fashion expos, showing versatility in both high-fashion and athletic modeling. Mark is quickly gaining recognition as a multi-talented entertainer. In 2024, he was profiled in Shoutout LA as a “TV Personality to Watch,” highlighting his crossover from reality TV to acting. He also earned a regional Addy Award for a local commercial he starred in, demonstrating his strength in advertising work. Mark’s increasing popularity (18K+ IG followers and growing) and his knack for personal branding led to a sponsorship with a sports nutrition company as their social media ambassador. Some of his most notable characteristics aren’t even his looks. Mark’s on-screen ease and positive attitude make him a favorite for producers and photographers. FITNESS MEETS FASHION ILLUMINANCE MAGAZINE | FALL 2025 Often praised for professionalism and adaptability – his mass appeal is welcomed, whether it’s improvising comedic bits on a reality show or taking direction in a serious acting scene. His background in fitness training adds to his discipline and camera- ready physique, and he frequently serves as a motivational figure to his fanbase. Not slowing down anytime soon, with upcoming appearances on season 3 of BET+ “All the Queen’s Men” and commercial campaigns for PUMA’s “Forever Faster” Men’s Training Collection, Mark’s fitness background continues to land him high-profile placements MODELING & FITNESS AN INDUSTRY FAVORITE MEN’S FASHION FEATURE

Read more A N T H O N Y ILLUMINANCE MAGAZINE | FALL 2025 MEN’S FASHION FEATURE Standing at 5’8”, Anthony defies the industry’s traditional runway standards. But that hasn’t slowed his ascent. He’s modeled for powerhouse brands like Nike, Jordan Brand, Billionaire Boys Club, Ed Hardy, and Mitchell & Ness, and even fronted the Mitchell & Ness x NBA All-Star Collection in 2024. In 2025, he will star in Nike's Jordan 'Air Revolution' summer campaign, signaling his breakthrough into global territory. In an industry known for surface- level perfection, Anthony Ramirez stands out not only for his look— but for his message. The 24-year- old Mexican-American model and creative, represented by Wright Hands Management, is carving a lane where authenticity, emotional presence, and self-care are as vital as aesthetics. . With thousands of engaged followers on Instagram and TikTok, he’s cultivated a community that celebrates not just streetwear, but self-expression. His content offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to be a modern man in a highly visual, emotionally complex world. 36

Behind the billboards and camera flashes, Anthony is deeply committed to personal growth and mental wellness. “Being seen is one thing,” he shares, “but being grounded is what keeps me moving forward.” Like many young men of color navigating visibility and pressure, Anthony sees wellness not as luxury—but necessity. His approach to health includes prayer, physical movement, and intentional solitude when needed. He is vocal about the pressures men face to constantly perform, provide, and project strength, while often lacking safe spaces to express vulnerability. ILLUMINANCE MAGAZINE | FALL 2025 Anthony’s journey challenges outdated ideas of masculinity. His work in fashion isn’t just about style—it’s about presence. Whether walking in Streetwear Fashion Week LA or co-designing a jacket with Enfinate Clothing, he’s making space for alternative narratives: models who speak up, who feel deeply, and who prioritize health—mental, spiritual, and emotional. As an influencer, he doesn’t sell perfection—he shares process. Collaborations with Pacsun, Sheikh Shoes, and indie designers show his adaptability, but his impact lies in how he connects. His community isn’t just following his look; they’re resonating with his truth. p. 37 REDEFINING MASCULINITY THROUGH FASHION, INFLUENCE, AND MENTAL CLARITY Named a “Top 10 New Male Model to Watch” by Model Digest and part of a Clio Image Award- winning campaign for Jordan Brand, Anthony’s résumé is growing. But for him, legacy isn’t just in credits—it’s in being whole. “You can’t build anything strong if you’re not stable inside,” he says. “So I treat my peace like it’s part of the brand.” In a world hungry for influence, Anthony Ramirez offers something more enduring: intention. INSTAGRAM @firexxchild

Autumn 2025 unfolded as a season of integration and insight. The intensity of summer’s revelations softened into balance, guiding us to stabilize what the heat had stirred. This fall became a cosmic dance between reflection and refinement, where the skies reminded us that evolution thrives not in haste, but in harmony.December 2025: The Solstice of Light As the year approached its close, the tone turned reflective. Mercury Retrograde in Capricorn (December 6–27) prompted reconsideration of commitments, business structures, and long-term visions. Rather than pushing forward, the energy favored review and restoration. The Full Moon in Cancer (December 19) rekindled emotional warmth and family connection, offering closure to lingering matters of the heart. By the Winter Solstice on December 21, the Sun’s move into Capricorn crowned the season with grounding wisdom. The foundations built throughout the year revealed their strength — proof that devotion and patience had ripened into form.September 2025: Groundwork and Revelation The season opened beneath the New Moon Solar Eclipse in Virgo (September 7) — a celestial call for purification and precision. Many found themselves reorganizing their daily lives, clearing cluttered spaces, and aligning intentions with higher purpose. As Mercury moved direct, clarity returned where confusion once lingered, and long-delayed projects began to take form. Venus’ passage through Leo brightened creativity and charisma, encouraging confident expression in art and business alike. By the Autumn Equinox on September 22, the Sun’s entry into Libra restored a sense of balance and diplomacy. Partnerships and aesthetic collaborations thrived, reminding us that refinement and fairness were the true currencies of progress.October 2025: Libra Harmony Met Scorpio Depth October carried the hush of introspection and the hum of rebirth. The New Moon in Libra (October 2) inspired reconciliations and re-alignment of relationships and values. Many found themselves drawn to beauty not as decoration, but as a reflection of truth. When Mars entered Scorpio mid-month, emotional undercurrents deepened. Passions intensified, and what had been hidden demanded exposure. The Full Moon in Taurus (October 20) anchored desires into tangible outcomes — financial stability, creative success, or the quiet satisfaction of work well done. The month revealed that steadfast effort was the surest form of manifestation.November 2025: The Phoenix Rose November carried the signature of transformation. With the Sun in Scorpio, themes of legacy, power, and renewal colored the atmosphere. It was a month for peeling back layers and rediscovering strength beneath vulnerability. The New Moon in Sagittarius (November 22) reopened horizons, encouraging expansion beyond the familiar. Many revisited spiritual or educational pursuits, driven by Jupiter’s expansive trine to Neptune, which awakened intuitive wisdom and prophetic dreaming. The cosmos urged trust — not in certainty, but in divine timing. p. 38

Read more house of novaD HOUSE OF NOVA’S NYFW DEBUT WITH WOVEN DREAMS esigner Nova Lorraine officially launched House of Nova at New York Fashion Week with “It was such a treat to be invited to a private viewing of House of Nova’s collection before the show. Nova is not only a genius, a gifted artist and designer, but a beautiful spirit. The detail and imagination behind Woven Dreams was breathtaking..” ILLUMINANCE MAGAZINE | VOLUME I | FALL 2025 Woven Dreams, a phygital couture collection merging AI visualizations, custom craftsmanship, and immersive storytelling. Ahead of the runway, actress Meagan Good attended a private preview during the model fitting, where she was among the first to see select looks—adding Hollywood presence to the debut. The collection featured futuristic silhouettes, digital projections, and custom hand-knit pieces created with artisans from the Kenyan social enterprise Beberavi, alongside sculptural jackets that became instant favorites. EXCLUSIVE PRIVATE VIEWING WITH ACTRESS MEAGAN GOOD MEAGAN GOOD

FASHION NEWS PHOTOGRAPHERS: Jonathan P and Emilia Ramirez ILLUMINANCE MAGAZINE | VOLUME I | FALL 2025 About Nova Lorraine & House of Nova: Nova Lorraine is an award-winning designer, author, and futurist recognized as one of the “Most Inspirational Women of Web3 and AI.” House of Nova launches with the mission of expanding couture into the phygital age. Woven Dreams marks its official debut. p. 40

VINYASA FLOWwww.glowinglotus.org Blending a juice bar with a gym, WHealthy offers free workouts with any drink purchase, ensuring accessible fitness for all. MONDAYS & WEDNESDAYS 121 E Bijou St. Colorado Springs, CO 80903 Free Gym Access Wellness Education Peer Recovery Coaching WHealthy Supports Justice-Impacted Individuals NON-MEMBERS$15 Dominique is the owner of Glowing Lotus. She leads the yoga and health coaching division.

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