May/June Food & Fashion Issue by The ICONS Book

MANIAC M AY | JU N E 2014

Art / C u lt u r e / Fa s h i o n / C e l e b r i ty . . . T h e Inne r M ani ac i n A l l of Us

Sasha Pieterse

P R E TT Y LITTLE L IA R S S TA R

T HE

Food& Fashion

ISSUE

NEW FEATURE! WA R HO L M U S E U M ' S

20th Anniversary H als T o n a n d Warhol : S i lv er a n d S ue d e

Restaurants to Runways Exploring Pittsburgh's Most Fashionable Restaurants

food photographer:

ben fink Style Profile Kristi Moss eatPGH

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What people are saying...

M AY/ J U N E 2 014 CON T R I BU TOR S

o n T w itter

@HeyRodra: @ManiacMagazine @1PhoebeJTonkin beautifully glamorous with a soft simplicity. #ThatsTheManiacWay I love this!

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@stewphoebe: @ManiacMagazine @1PhoebeJTonkin she is so perfect, you did a wonderful job.

E d it o r Susie Meister

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S en d part y i deas , c o mp l iments , criticisms , an d w itticisms t o :

O F F I C E M A N AG E R Cody Nicole Wiegand

@ilovetoolove97: I’ve watched this video a million times!! I LOVE IT! @1PhoebeJTonkin Cover shoot for @ManiacMagazine <3

M A N I AC M ag a z ine

Desi g ner Martha Heatherington A dv ertisin g Janet Wizig Fas h i o n E d it o r Helen Cestra

33 Terminal Way | Suite 533a Pittsburgh, PA 15219 cody@maniacmagazine.com

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O N T HE C O V E R P h o t o g rap h y C o ntribut o rs April Hubal, Cody Nicole Wiegand, Adam Butler, Marc Friedberg C o ntributin g Writers Susie Meister, Brittany Hoydich, Rachel Sanzone Cody Nicole Wiegand, Maggie Stankaitis

P hoto g raph y b y A pr i l H u b al W r i tten b y S u s i e M e i ster S t y led b y K r i st i na C hanel S u kamto H a i r b y C re i g hton Bowman f or E x cl u s i ve A rt i sts u s i n g R ene F u rtere M ake u p b y A g ost i na L om b ardo f or E x cl u s i ve A rt i sts u s i n g C hanel L i g ht i n g A ss i stant: J erem y N elson S t y l i n g A ss i stant: Fel i pe A valos

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I nterns

Nicole Raupach, Sarah Meyers

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The weather is finally heating up and we are ready to come out of hibernation. Mark your calendars for Maniac's spring event on Wednesday, May 14 at Chapel Point Condos. We've waited long enough and we're ready to enjoy the beauty and fun that Chapel Pointe has to offer. Hope to see you there!

Destiny Johnson, Maggie Stankaitis,

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MANIAC TA K E A B I g g E R B I T E oU T TA l I F E

Contents May / June 2014

14/ bts Cover Shoot

16/ UNdErCoVEr Sasha Pieterse

28/ FEAtUrE Restaurants to Runways

Ben Fink

Katherine McNamara

56/ EVENts

36/ MUsiC

Chapel Hills Jewelry

Jana Kramer

In this issue we met up with the ladies of eatPGH and talked about Pittsburgh's growing culinary scene. This foursome has been gaining buzz for their books, restaurant tips, and blog posts, that showcase the variety of tastes and flavors that our city has to offer.

58/ EVENts

38/ FEAtUrE

Fashion for the Wild

Moschino

60/ JEt sEt

40/ FAshioN

Pink Sands

Castaway

PAGE 16

64/ FEAtUrE

48/ bEAUtY 50/ stYlE proFilE Kristi Moss

66/ FEAtUrE Silver & Suede

Pittsburgh has a unique relationship with food. Just ask someone outside of the city about Primanti Brothers and they will describe the delectable experience of having french fries on their sandwich. As a Pittsburgher, if you have ever travelled outside of the country and not received Heinz ketchup it might’ve ruined your trip completely. It happens to be the best-tasting ketchup and it's made right here in the ‘burgh. Those are the things we used to talk about ten years ago. Fast-forward to modern day Pittsburgh and you’ll find dozens of innovative and fabulous restaurants popping up. Over the past year we have welcomed a few dozen new eateries as well as world-renowned chefs. For this issue we encourage you to dig in and take a bigger bite out of our Maniac lifestyle!

68/ loCAl

51/ shops Food for Thought & Ladies who Lunch

grit & grace

70/ FEAtUrE Ana Kelly Food Stylist

PAGE 54

Coincidentally, some high-end designers have been using food as inspiration this season. We were particularly mesmerized by how Moschino captured fast-food giant, McDonald's, by paying homage to the nostalgic french fry boxes by transforming them into purses and iPhone cases. In addition, Moschino found inspiration for their pieces in the Fruit Loops and Hershey’s brand logos. Our cover shoot inspiration came from Chiquita Banana, which represents the perfect marriage of fashion and food. “Pretty Little Liars” star Sasha Pieterse juggled oranges, pineapples, and strawberries, and embraced the issue's theme with enthusiasm. The shoot was the perfect combination of femininity and edge; turning these sweet, sunny looks into a mouth-watering spread. Pieterse was the embodiment of a passion fruit.

Abby Warhola

Protect the Skin Your're In

PAGE 48

Here at Maniac we are celebrating the intersection between Fashion and Food like we never have before. Rather than focusing on one or the other, we decided to combine them in equal parts to show our readers that Pittsburgh is not only a stylish city but its streets are lined with amazing restaurants, cafés, and coffee shops. We illustrate this concept in our first ever "Restaurants to Runways" article, featuring décor from local restaurants and pairing them with designer duds fresh off the catwalk.

54/ Art

34/ tV

72/ FEAtUrE eatPGH

April Hubal APRIL HUBAL, EDITOR IN CHIEF

PAGE 40

behind the scenes

MANIAC BTS

Behind the Scenes of MANIAC's Food and Fashion Cover Shoot WHO: Sasha Pieterse WHERE: Los Angeles, California WHAT: We’re always told not to play with food, but we don’t always follow the rules. Bright, bold colors and fresh fruit took center stage during this studio shoot, where tunes from Madonna, Britney Spears, and Maroon 5 played in the background. Sasha’s striking looks and fun, lively personality blossomed the moment she walked on set and continued until we wrapped. Without our cover girl’s enthusiasm this Food and Fashion photo shoot would not have been the same!

Sasha Pieterse

UNDERCOVER

FINDERSKEEPERS DRESS HAATI CHAI CUFFS AMARILO AND TIFFANY NECKLACES AMARILO AND VOLU JOYAS RINGS

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Sasha Pieterse P h o t o g r a p h y b y Ap r i l H u b a l | W r i t t e n b y S u s i e M e i s t e r | S t y l e d b y K r i s t i n a C h a n e l S u k a m t o H a i r b y C r e i g h t o n B o wm a n f o r E x c l u s i v e A r t i s t s u s i n g R e n e F u r t e r e | M a k e u p b y A g o s t i n a L o m b a r d o f o r E x c l u s i v e A r t i s t s u s i n g C h a n e l | L i g h t i n g Ass i s ta n t : J e r e m y N e l s o n | S t y l i n g Ass i s ta n t : F e l i p e Ava l o s

C H A RL OT T E RO N S O N JA C K E T F I N D E R S K E E P E R S S K I RT V I C TO RI A’ S S EC RE T B I K I N I TO P WA N D E RLU S T + C O E A RRI N G S

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some ways Sasha Pieterse is the embodiment of normality. She is down-to-earth, funny, and loves taking selfies. She talks lovingly about her group of church friends, and she delights in a good piece of chocolate. Taking a closer look, it’s easy to see that she is anything but your average 18-year-old. As a star of the hit ABC Family series, “Pretty Little Liars,” Sasha is living a life that most 18-year-olds only dream of. The show, which was originally a book series billed as “Desperate Housewives” for teens, is entering its fifth season. Sasha’s character has been the subject of much mystery in this sexy, whodunit drama, and she is a standout in this cast of beauties. But the success of Pieterse through “Pretty Little Liars” is just another in series of extraordinary elements in her young life. Born in South, Africa, Sasha’s parents were no strangers to the entertainment industry. They were accomplished performers who traveled the world doing their adagio act, which is an acrobatic specialty performance art that includes elements of balance and strength. When Sasha was three years old her family immigrated to the United States, and not long after she was being cast in television commercials and other gigs. “I remember I booked my first audition for a car company, and all I had to do was lie in a bed and pretend to sleep!” She adds, “It was a great job to get me started in the industry.” And probably a lot less stressful then when she had to lie in a grave a couple of times for “Pretty Little Liars.” Sasha has been working ever since that first commercial, and considers all the interviews, appearances, and photo shoots to just be her version of normal. On the set of our photo shoot, she was down-to-earth and ready to play. Despite our wacky theme of fashion and food, Sasha was ready to get creative. “I loved it. It was so much fun and quirky,” she says laughing. Pieterse brought her boyfriend, Hudson, to the photo shoot, and our team was struck by how this woman (who is barely old enough to vote) seems to be in a delightfully loving and mature relationship. We at Maniac shutter to think about the people we were dating at eighteen, and the relationships we had were anything but functional and mature. We wanted to know how Sasha ended up in such a grownup relationship and we found out they met at church. “I got involved in the youth group of my church, and just ended up being surrounded by a really great group of people,” she reveals. Not only did she meet her long-time boyfriend, but also being in the youth group helped reassure her parents that she was hanging around people who would influence her positively. She added that her Christian faith leads her in her private life, but is separate from the roles she chooses. “I’m acting,” she says, “The characters I play aren’t me.” While Sasha might play flawed 18

UNDERCOVER characters, they definitely don’t represent her own character. The stereotype of child stars could not be further from Pieterse’s experience, but it goes along with the theme of her whole unusual life. Sasha was homeschooled and graduated before she turned fourteen. Despite having this accelerated academic success, getting work in Hollywood at a young age can be difficult because child labor laws make casting adults more appealing. Despite this obstacle, she was cast on “Pretty Little Liars” and found herself amongst a group of older girls. “I always end up in groups where I’m the youngest,” Sasha says, but it is probably a comfortable experience since she seems to do everything early and has the maturity to prove it. Among the people who ended up on the cast, Sasha says she was familiar with her costar, Lucy Hale, because they were auditioning for so many of the same roles before “Pretty Little Liars” came along. As luck would have it, they both auditioned for the role of Hannah, and both of them were cast on the series. “We’ve kind of had parallel lives in certain ways because we auditioned for many of the same jobs, and we both are also interested in music,” she explains. Pieterse’s music is something she says she loves to do for fun. She’s released a few singles including, “This Country is Badass,” a sort of tribute to America, to which she says she owes her success. Even though she dabbles in music, she says acting will always be her first love. While co-star Lucy Hale went on a minitour during their hiatus, Sasha says she is comfortable just using music as a respite from the chaos of her life. “It’s what I do when I have a moment of downtime, which isn’t very often,” she explains. She has described her music as country with some Southern rock mixed in, which is a testament to what a true American girl she is. Despite having embraced the United States, Sasha says besides her mom and dad, her whole family is still in South Africa, and she is still close to them. While the physical distance is enormous, she says she Skypes with her family and visits as much as she can. “They are a season behind on airing ‘Pretty Little Liars’ over there, but they love seeing it,” she says. Her grandma is particularly tickled to see her granddaughter thriving in such a public way.

it is this reverence that will undoubtedly serve her well as she makes her way through the ups and downs of the entertainment industry. While Pieterse demonstrates great depth when discussing her work, she insists she’s a regular girl who loves to just be with her friends and have fun. Being the food and fashion issue, I wanted to find out if she was a gourmand. “I am such a foodie!” she exclaims. “I love having people over and entertaining, barbecuing, putting out flowers, all of it!” I don’t know about you, but I would love an invitation to a barbecue at Sasha’s house. Despite being so likeable, fun, and down-to-earth, I had one bone to pick with our foodie starlet. Rumor had it that she is a big Green Bay Packers fan, and I knew this wouldn’t go down well with our Pittsburgh readers, so I needed an explanation. “Let me explain,” she said, “In South Africa, our local team wears green and gold, so when I moved to America I loved that there was a football team who had the same colors. It felt like a piece of home.” She adds that her boyfriend hails from Wisconsin, as well, so she’s just being a loyal girlfriend. Even when she likes a rival football team, she is still lovable. It looks like we’ll give her a pass on this one. We were so thrilled to have the chance to watch Sasha in action for our cover, and we think she is just as fresh, sweet, and delicious as her fruity props. Whether she is having a backyard barbecue or starring next to Reese Witherspoon, Pieterse seems totally comfortable with herself. Despite having a completely unusual life including performer parents, acting since her toddler years, and graduating at fourteen, Sasha couldn’t be more “normal.” And we think that’s extraordinary. Follow Sasha Pieterse on: Twitter: @SashaaPieterse Facebook.com/TheSashaPietersePage Instagram: @sashapieterse27

Pieterse speaks with great warmth and gratitude about her family, and is especially appreciative of her parents, who she said have been supportive throughout her career. “Because they were in the business, they totally understand everything, but the nice thing was there was never any pressure—I always know I could quit any time if I wanted,” Sasha states. Luckily for us she never got the urge to abandon her career for a “normal” life. Instead of going down a more typical road, Sasha just keeps breaking new ground in the entertainment industry, and is excited about the release of her next project, a movie called Inherent Vice, and whose cast list sounds like a who’s who of Hollywood. Some of her co-stars include Joaquin Phoenix, Reese Witherspoon, and Josh Brolin. “I did a scene with Joaquin Phoenix and Martin Short, and I was intimidated at first, but then it was so fun because they were so great to work with,” she gushes. The film is slated for release this December, and if the cast is any indication, it is sure to be a hit. Even though Pieterse is working with Hollywood’s A-listers, she says she would probably still be a little starstruck if she met Meryl Streep, because as Sasha put it, “It’s Meryl Streep!” Even after being in the business for most of her life, she still recognizes the grace and talent of some of the industries true legends, and 20

LO V E & L E M O N S TO P A N D S K I RT 21 V O LU J OYA S RI N D A N D E A RRI N G S

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MANIAC feature ELEVEN CAROLINA HERRERA The easy elegance of Eleven can be experienced the moment you arrive. The owners say that the design of the restaurant reflects the food: hearty, yet polished. All who dine at Eleven know the amazing food they produce, and it is with the same commitment to balance and originality that they designed the interior. The space was created to include elements of the industrial building in which they are located, but also the sophistication of Downtown Pittsburgh. The restaurant includes wood inlays, a glass-walled wine cellar, and a table located on a cantilevered balcony overlooking the bar. Eleven doesn’t compare itself to its peers in order to facilitate a natural evolution in the space. They say they’re different because they’re not trying to be different; they’re just trying to be themselves. With this in mind, they did not want the interior to be imposing, but to maintain a balance. In doing so, they have avoided an antiquated, stuffy vibe while also not being too edgy. Next time you visit Eleven, take in the rich elegance, while enjoying the amazing cuisine.

1150 SMALLMAN STREET, PITTSBURGH, PA, 15222 | 412.201.5656 | ELEVENCK.COM

R E STAUR A NTS 2 RUNWAYS Last year, Pittsburghers spent over $993 million dollars eating out, so for this issue, we scoured the city to find some of Pittsburgh's most delicious and welldesigned restaurants. These eateries are serving up amazing food, and they’re doing it with an eye for style. They look like a million bucks! By SUSI E M EISTER

PRANTL'S BAKERY MARCHESA

FE AT U R E D R E STAU R A NTS ACACIA ALLA FAMIGLIA ELEVEN GIRASOLE JERGEL'S RYTHM GRILL KAYA

Prantl’s Bakery is a Pittsburgh institution that has been whipping up delectable desserts for over 40 years and for good reason. The Huffington Post named Prantl’s Bakery’s Burnt Almond Torte, “The Best Cake America Has Ever Made,” and as the title claims, it is just about the most delicious thing you could ever eat. It is perfectly sweet with sublime texture that begs to be savored. Walking into Prantl’s Bakery is a full sensory experience with their freshly-made treats lining the walls and cases with all the beauty of true art and the scents of sweet vanilla and fresh bread filling the air. The style of their Shadyside and Downtown locations speak to the classic approach they use to create their tempting treats. With over 100 decadent offerings, Prantl’s Bakery is proud of their traditional and contemporary creations, and their stores allow customers to experience them before they even enter, as their sweet smells perfume the sidewalks outside. No matter what you choose to enjoy at Prantl’s Bakery you will enjoy the sights, smells, and tastes of their incredible baked goods.

PRANTL'S BAKERY VALLOzzI'S 28

SHADYSIDE: 5525 WALNUT STREET, PITTSBURGH, PA 15232, 412.621.2092 MARKET SQUARE: 438 MARKET STREET, PITTSBURGH, PA 15222, 412.471.6861 | WWW.PRANTLSBAKERY.COM

R E STAU R A NTS

RUNWAYS KAYA

VALLOzzI'S

CHRISTIAN SIRIANO

DOLCE & GABBANA

While Pittsburgh has some harsh winters, we are lucky enough to have a vacation destination right in the heart of the Strip District. The easy, breezy island vibe at Kaya offers guests a little bit of the Caribbean through their food, music, and décor. The cuisine is inspired by the sea and sun, and includes fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The varied and complex menu and festive tropical drinks have made Kaya an award-winning dining destination for nearly two decades. Their commitment to creativity can also be seen in the interior where they wanted to simulate an island festival with the warmth of the Caribbean, but bumped up a notch. Kaya’s décor doesn’t fit the space, it IS the space. The flavors are strong and rhythms are upbeat, and so is their style: spicy and exotic. They employed the talent of local artists to create the leafy barstools, tile mosaics, and incorporated a logo featuring a New Guinea fertility statue, making the vibe unlike any other spot in the city. Kaya’s goal was to create the same light-hearted feeling you get when you bask in the sun on a Caribbean island, and all your cares slip away, if only for a moment.

Having its original location in Greenburg, Pennsylvania, Vallozzi’s Pittsburgh, which opened in 2012, wanted to include elements from their first space, while still creating an original identity. With the help of Charles Stern at Basic Concept Interiors, the owners picked fi xtures, fabrics, and finishes to create the perfect atmosphere. Vallozzi’s Pittsburgh added fresh fl air to its space including an incredible art collection featuring several local artists. While staying true to Pittsburgh was important, the owners also drew inspiration from their international travel that allows diners to be transported to a Tuscan villa in the Italian countryside—keeping it upscale, yet comfortable. Fashion also played a role in the design of the space. Because the restaurant is family run, they wanted the interior to refl ect the personalities and individual styles of the people behind Vallozzi’s. Their customers might be coming from a big event or just stopping by after work. They want the space to refl ect the comfort and class of their guests. With their attention to detail, Vallozzi’s Pittsburgh successfully tied in a little bit of Italy in the heart of Pittsburgh.

2000 SMALLMAN STREET, PITTSBURGH, PA 15222 | WWW.BIGBURRITO.COM/KAYA

220 5TH AVENUE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15222 | 412.394.3400 | VALLOzzISPITTSBURGH.COM

JERGEL'S RHYTHM GRILLE:

GIRASOLE BLUMARINE

BALMAIN

Hidden within the bustling, business district Shadyside is the family-owned Italian eatery, Girasole. The family name means “sunflower,” and the warm and vibrant imagery can be found within the restaurant’s design. This intimate restaurant sits just beneath street level, creating the sense that guests are escaping into a world all its own. The food is traditional Italian prepared to appeal to contemporary tastes with locally grown foods, and their seasonal menu is frequently updated to prepare the highest quality Italian dishes. The interior provides a cozy atmosphere where guests can enjoy a romantic evening or share an upbeat evening with friends. Girasole aims to maintain Old World charm through design details like their interior brick walls, while providing innovative, contemporary cuisine to their chic customers. The timeless décor is stylish, classy, and welcoming, and exudes the love that allows this urban sunflower to thrive. Guests who prefer outdoors can enjoy the savory dishes al fresco in the cozy courtyard. The food, staff, and interior are designed to make guests feel like part of the family. It is the perfect destination for modern diners, and it is clear why Girasole has been a strong presence in the sophisticated Shadyside neighborhood for over fourteen years.

Whether customers come to Jergel’s to see national performers like Bret Michaels or the Gin Blossoms or to see their favorite local artists, they know they’ll have a one-of-akind experience. While the original location was open for over 20 years, the current Warrendale location was created specifically to provide guests with a full-scale musical experience. The design reflects the venue’s commitment to high-quality music, good food, and contemporary atmosphere. Every detail, from the custom-designed wallpaper to the modern sound system was produced with the desire for visual harmony and the ultimate musical experience for their customers. Jergel’s features all genres of live music, and includes a cigar and scotch bar, patio, and an abundance of video monitors. The venue is a sight and sound experience that spans musical and style spectrums. When you visit Jergel’s you’re not just getting delicious food, but an experience meant for all your senses including world-class music and audio-video system. The secondfloor balcony allows guests to enjoy a full-view of their favorite acts on stage. Visitors are sure to see live entertainment that will thrill and the décor is designed to enhance that multisensory experience. 733 COPELAND AVENUE PITTSBURGH, PA 15232 | 412.682.2130

103 SLADE LANE WARRENDALE, PA 15086 | 724.799.8333 | WWW.JERGELS.COM

R E STAU R A NTS

RUNWAYS

ALLA FAMIGLIA VALENTINO For the past nine years, Owner and Executive Chef Jonathan Vlasic has entertained guests at Alla Famiglia by preparing classic, yet artisanal Italian cuisine. His dishes match the restaurant’s timeless interior. The design of Alla Famiglia is the product of Jonathan’s imagination, and is meant to be the perfect balance of Old World sophistication and updated sensibility. The restaurant includes a large mural featuring an Italian woman who watches over the cucina. If you’re watching the chef prepare the meals a mere ten feet away, you will also see elaborate window stencils, exposed brick, and stained-glass windows. Guests can choose from any of the themed rooms, such as the Calvary Room, which feature antiquities and artifacts. Despite the incredible things to see and eat while at Alla Famiglia, guests come wearing everything from designer, custom-made suits to jeans and heels. You are also encouraged to enjoy your homemade pasta and fine cuts of meat on the Fresco Patio and drinks at the Trenta Cocktail Lounge, which includes a Crawford Mahogany style bar. Chef Jonathan wants to keep the restaurant fresh without bowing to trends in order to stand the test of time.

My Vangura— We’re building our kitchen around it.

804 E. WARRINGTON ROAD PITTSBURGH, 15210 | 412.448.1440 | ALLAFAMIGLIA.COM

ACACIA RALPH LAUREN The Southside has undergone a transformation over the last few years thanks to exciting new retailers and restaurants committed to revitalization and innovation. One such venue is boutique cocktail bar, Acacia. The elegant and simple style is a reflection of its cocktails, and offers guests a truly unique social experience. Acacia’s design pays homage to pre-prohibition speakeasies, where creative cocktails were birthed and imbibing was done with panache. The boarded windows make for an unusual sight, but display the owners’ commitment to the speakeasy concept. That commitment continues with the music and staff attire, which match the theme as well. Acacia’s speakeasy vibe is mellow and meant to be both beautiful and unassuming. Acacia’s drinks are designed with precision and are meant to complement the stylish details like the exquisite Tiffany stainedglass lighting and vintage mirrors. The subdued lighting and exposed brick wall add understated elegance and create ambiance without imposition. By creating a fully authentic experience, Acacia offers a taste of pre-prohibition cocktails to modern day South Side. While the design is simple, every aspect of the Acacia drinking experience has been considered from décor to design to drinks.

Pittsburgh’s Largest Inventory — The vast assortment of colors, patterns and options, available to you under one roof, will enable your dreams and imagination to come alive. Since 1971 Vangura continues to dedicate all of their efforts to providing the highest quality surfaces with an unrivaled commitment to customer satisfaction.

2108 E. CARSON STREET, P ITTSBURGH, 15203 | 412.488.1800 | ACACIACOCKTAILS.CO M

Call 412-824-7777 or go to www.vangura.com to schedule a consultation at our showroom located at 14431 Vangura Lane North Huntingdon, PA 15642

MANIAC television

called “Chatter.” “Because that’s exactly what a lot of bullying is—chatter. It’s just white noise,” she says.

Looks like the perfect person was cast to be a star of the upcoming MTV series, “Happyland,” because Katherine McNamara exudes joyfulness. Talking to this beautiful redhead recently felt more like talking to a motivational speaker as she is incredibly positive, upbeat, and cheerful.

Katherine’s career has taken her far from the days of water fountain face-plants. She who has tackled a variety of musical and acting projects during her career already. “I want people to know that when I’m not working, I’m making music in the studio,” she explains. She’s enthusiastic about her projects, and is willing to learn new things for the sake of her career. For example, she added “hula-ing” to her dance repertoire when she was in a little known musical called, “13 Daughters.” She laughs about her acquired skill, but it speaks to her dedication to continuously learning.

The series, “Happyland,” which premieres this summer, is about a group of people who work at a theme park of the same name. Katherine describes the series as a dramedy since it includes lots of laughs, but the plot has lots of twists, turns, and intensity. The rigor of the series is nothing this triple threat can’t handle though. Known for her acting, singing, and dancing, Katherine is excited to tackle work on the small screen. Despite having just begun work on “Happyland,” McNamara says the cast is already like family with her co-stars as her unofficial siblings including Bianca Santos who plays her best friend. Here’s hoping they are like most actual families (except more attractive) with lots of dysfunction to create a show that reflects real chemistry and tension. Katherine says she is excited to play her character, Harper Monroe, who she describes as a “fun, flamboyant, girl who is still trying to figure out who she is.”

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Katherine’s passion about education doesn’t end with dancing. She graduated high school at fifteen and has since gotten a degree in business. “I have always loved learning. I used to wake my mom up in the middle of the night so I could do math homework!” she exclaims.

I want people to know that when I’m not working, I’m making music in the studio,

In addition to her work on “Happyland,” McNamara worked on a film for Cartoon Network’s “Stop Bullying: Speak Up” campaign called Contest, which is now being integrated into the New Jersey school districts’ anti-bullying curriculum. “One thing I loved about this film is that we didn’t make the bully a one-dimensional monster, people are complicated, and it showed in this story,” she says. Katherine says she experienced bullying firsthand growing up. Incredulous, I didn’t think someone like her would ever experience the torment of a bully. “I did!” she promises, “I was face-planted into a water fountain, believe me. People can be so cruel.”

H a p p y G o Luc k y MTV’s “Happyland” Star Katherine McNamara

Katherine’s experience with bullies made her passionate about informing people on how to handle harassment. “I try to tell people that we should focus on handling bullying rather than trying to prevent it,” she says. “There will always be bullies, but if people learn they do not have to put up with it, it’ll help them.” She suggests telling someone if you’re being harassed and maintaining a network of strong friendships can help combat bullying. She even wrote what she calls an “anti-bully anthem,”

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McNamara might be passionate about her career and education, but she is also skilled in the not-so-high-minded art of selfies. Since she is prolific in selfies, I asked for some tips. “The key to a good selfie is lighting,” she says laughing, “You’ve got to spin around 360° to get it just right.” She also recommends taking dozens until you get it right.

It also doesn’t hurt that McNamara has the best hair around. Her long auburn hair is thick and luxurious and has just the right amount of curls. She says she got luck in the hair genes department, but she swears drinking tons of water and eating right helps give it a healthy glow. As gorgeous as she is, her true beauty can be seen when she says her favorite thing to do is grow her hair and then cut it and donate it to the cancer survivor charity, Locks of Love. “My hair grows really fast, so I love when I can cut it and donate it to someone who needs it,” she says. Even though Katherine makes it look easy, this ebullient and enthusiastic entertainer loves her work and is excited about the journey her career is taking. And we’re just as excited about being along for the ride. Follow Katherine McNamara on Twitter.com/Kat_McNamara and visit her official site, www.katmcnamara.com.

B y S usie M eister

MANIAC music Ray Bradbury once said, “You’ve got to jump off cliffs all the time and build your wings on the way down.” No one knows this sentiment more than the beautiful and talented actress-turned-country-singer, Jana Kramer. For the brunette starlet, her music career has been one very successful leap of faith.

Jana Kramer A Little Bit Country a Little Bit Hollywood B Y B rittan y H oy d ic h

Growing up in Michigan, Jana fell head over heels in love with the country music scene, listening to Detroit’s WYCD and singing whenever she could. When she wasn’t singing, she was writing. “I’ve been journaling since I was pretty much in elementary school,” she reveals. For her, the diaries she kept over the years have been a source of realization, a means of seeing just how much she has matured. One look at Jana rocking out on stage today and you would never know that she once doubted her talent. “I didn’t believe in myself enough to pursue the music, so I went into acting,” she tells me of the choice she made in her early teens. She feared the rejection, forcing her dreams of becoming a singer to take a backseat. Instead, she filled her career with spots on shows like “Entourage” and “Friday Night Lights”. Lucky for her, and us, it was her role as bad girl gone good, Alex Dupre, on “One Tree Hill” that finally launched her headfirst into the music scene. “When I was working on One Tree Hill, I gave some of my songs to the creator,” she tells me. “I was like, ‘Look, I don’t know if this is good or not. I don’t know if I have a good voice, but here’s some stuff that I’ve been working on in Nashville’.” Her risk paid off. The creator loved it and that moment changed everything for Jana as the show morphed into a platform for her to launch songs like “I Won’t Give Up” and “Whiskey.” Both tracks eventually found their way onto her self-titled album released in 2012. Now Jana is working on her sophomore

album to be released later this year and if one thing is true, she is putting her heart out there for all to see. Her music is undeniably genuine, relatable and personal and she wouldn’t have it any other way. “I’ll never sing anything that I haven’t been through,” she says. Jana’s love of country music comes from the fact that it is a genre that revolves around storytelling and for her, she has a lot of stories to tell. “I’ve made a million mistakes, yet I love

“

I’ve made a million mistakes, yet I love to love, so it’s just one of those things you gotta write from the heart, because if not, then no one’s gonna believe you.

”

to love,” she tells me. “So it’s just one of those things you gotta write from the heart, because if not, then no one’s gonna believe you.” Her faith in love is so strong that “Love” is the title of her first single off of the new album. Written with her good friends Catt Gravitt and Jimmy Robbins, she tells me that the message of the single extends far beyond the idea of relationships. “It’s about the whole variety of what love stands for and helping other people and paying it forward,” she explains.

does it effortlessly. Not only is she talented, but she also has a heart of gold that shows through her extensive charity work with organizations like St Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Hearts2Honduras. “I always walk in thinking I’m gonna spread the love and I leave with so much more love in my heart because of them,” she says of her experiences at St. Jude. It’s unquestionable that Jana has a kindness in her that shines bright like those diamonds Rihanna is always talking about, not to mention endless talent. It’s crazy to think that her music career was almost nothing more than a dream, but she’s proof that it pays to put yourself out there. “I used to make excuses for my voice and say, I don’t have the big Martina McBride/ Carrie Underwood voice and you know, I always wished that I did. But honestly, I am who I am,” she says with no hesitancy. “I have a different sounding voice. My voice is not always perfect and it’s not always gonna be totally a hundred percent on key at times, I’m sure. But man, I’m singing from my heart, and I’d rather have someone singing all the emotion in the world than being a perfectly gifted singer. That’s why I’m like ‘This is who I am’. Either take it or leave it.” We’ll take it. Catch Jana Kramer on the road this summer & be on the lookout for her new album later this year! May 17 – Jackpot Junction Casino Hotel @ Morton, MN with Love & Theft June 11 – Del Mar Fairgrounds @ Del Mar, CA with Joe Nichols June 12 – House of Blues Anaheim @ Anaheim, CA July 18-20 – Faster Horses Festival @ Brooklyn, MI

When it comes to paying it forward, Jana 37

MANIAC feature

FeAtURe

FAST FOOd FASHiON MOSCHINO’S DELICIOUS 2014 COLLECTION By SUSIE MEISTER

As one of the most recognizable brands and logos in the world, McDonald’s and its famous golden arches have gone from lowbrow to high fashion thanks to luxury fashion brand Moschino. The fashion company, with Jeremy Scott at the helm, used the signature colors and style of some of America’s most famous brands to create its playful Fall/Winter 2014 collection. The collection is raising eyebrows for its eccentric pieces, but fashion icons like Katy Perry and Rita Ora have been seen sporting these cheeky pieces and the clothes are selling out. Many are impressed with the artistic combination of corporate culture and fashion and are just excited to rock the whimsical frocks. Moschino is drawing inspiration from unusual places, but doing so with a wink to American culture. This collection feature pieces inspired by Budweiser, Hershey’s, and most notably, McDonald’s. Their McDonald’s line is particularly whimsical, and its $85 French fry iPhone case speaks to its creative elements and humor. Although this collection is certainly innovative, we can’t help but see this brand-centric line as a nod to the clever work of Andy Warhol who famously used food and corporate culture to create some of the world’s most amazing modern art. When the Moschino model walked down the runway sporting a rich,

"OVER 20 BilliON SERVEd" brown, candy bar wrapper evening gown, I imagine, it would have made Mr. Warhol proud. The novelty of the McDonald’s Moschino line might distract from the ingenuity of its presentation and artistry of the pieces. The red, mini-sweaterdress emblazoned with a yellow, modified “M” that looks like a heart-shaped version of the infamous golden arches above the line, “20 Billion Served,” is flirty and flattering. A longer, light-weight, pale yellow dress paying homage to the traditional McDonald’s uniform looks like a sexy flight attendant’s dress, and features a slit that would make people hungry for more than burgers and fries. Moschino is known for provocative collections, and given the success of this line we can see why they’re keeping it coming. While some jokingly referred to this as a “stoner’s collection,” there is definitely a market for fashion with a sense of humor. This line speaks to the ways artists and designers can find inspiration anywhere—even at a fast food restaurant—and make us look good in the process.

P h o t o g r a p h y b y Ap r i l H u b a l / S t y l e d b y A l l i s o n S t . G e r m a i n at Wilhelmina Artists / Makeup by Alexis Williams using Dior C o s m e t i cs a n d K a p l a n MD S k i n c a r e / H a i r b y H e l e n R e a v e y using Evo products / Lighting by Jeremy Nelson M o d e l : E m m a P, M a r i l y n A g e n c y

Top and sweater : O sklen Bottoms : O sklen 41

FASHION

Top: H & M B ottoms : P hillipe & D avid B lond J ewelry: G emma S imone earrings opposite page

Top and skirt: Torn by Ronny Kobo 43

FASHION

S wim Top: Red C arter W hite vest: G eorgine B ottoms : F ran z i z ska Fo x B racelet: D inosaur D esigns S unglasses : H & M O P P O S I T E PA G E Top: L O V E Richard C hai S kirt: H & M B racelet: D inosaur D esigns

B athing suit: H & M S triped dress : C helsea F lower E arrings : G emma S imone STONE COLD FOX, jumpsuit MALENE BIRGER, scarf O P P O S I T BY E PA GE CARLO PAZOLINI, platforms Top: D ana -Ma x x RILA JEWELRY, B ottoms : D ana - M a x xnecklace ELIZABETH KNIGHT JEWELRY, rings bracelet: G emma S imone RILA JEWELRY, ring

MANIAC beauty 7

Protect the Skin You’re In

We’ve all heard the saying, “You are what you eat,” and it turns out it’s also true when it comes to your skin. What we put on our bodies is equally as important as what we put into our bodies. The modern world is full of chemicals, parabens, and bad juju so why would we women (and men) want anything but natural, delicious ingredients taking care of our appearance? What we eat or drink is "filtered" to some degree during the digestive process. The opposite is true of what we put on our skin. The products we use on our skin get absorbed directly into the blood stream. Why would you want anything but the very best taking? Because we love our readers, we’ve done the legwork of searching for the perfect item for your hair, skin and body by providing you with a few of our favorite things that also happen to have some of nature’s most nourishing ingredients. These products are made with items found in nature so we’re giving them our stamp of approval. Being the food issue, the products listed here contain ingredients that we'd be just as comfortable eating as we would using for our nighttime moisturizer. These “beauty whole foods” are a great start to reclaim the skin you’re in!

17 15

By RAChEl SANzoNE

1. R+Co Air Craft pomade mousse 2. Laura Geller Beauty Color Enriched Anti-Aging Lipstick in Spiced Ginger 3. Joanna Vargas Vitamin C Face Wash 4. Eminence Cinnamon Kiss Lip Plumper 5. Eminence Pear & Poppy Seed Microderm Polisher 6. Eminence Yam & Pumpkin Enzyme Peel 7. Eve Lom Mineral Powder Foundation 8. R+Co Mannequin styling paste 9. Sonia Kashuk Body Butter 10. UltraLuxe Bergamot Wash 11. UltraLuxe Berry Mask

12. Tela Beauty Organics by Philip Pelusi Curl of My Dreams Organic Curl Boost Anti Frizz Serum and Smooth Operator Organic Blow Out Anti Frizz Serum available at Philip Pelusi Salons and online at www.philippelusi.com 13. Yes To Cucumbers Soothing Body Wash 14. Tatcha Luminous Deep Hydration Firming Serum 15. b-leve b-bright Eye Roll-On 16. Yes to Blueberries Eye Firming Treatment 17. Kat Burki Raw Sugar Body Scrub, available at Katburki.com

MANIAC style proﬁle KRISTI MoSS

MANIAC shops Topshop Pineapple Detail Runner Shorts, $28

“ T h e r e i s s o m e t h i n g t o b e s a i d f o r o w n i n g y o u r o w n b u s i n e s s” K r i s t i M o s s s h a r e s w i t h m e . I m e t t h e s t y l i s h e n t r e pr e n e u r a t h e r A s p i n w a l l b o u t i qu e a s t h e s e a s o n s w e r e t r a n s i t i o n i n g, a n d s h e g r e e t e d m e w i t h a b i g, b r i g h t s m i l e a n d d r e s s e d i n a d o u b l e - s l i t AG b l a c k m a x i , o u t o f t h i s w o r l d D e e p a G u r n a n i j e w e l r y, a n d F r y e Wy a t t s t u d b o o t s B y: C o dy N I C o l E w I E g A N d Charlotte Olympia Pandora Gourmet Lobster Box Clutch, White/Coral, $1,495

KRiSTi bOuTiQuE is just two-years-old, but is already a household name in the Pittsburgh area. With brands like Hudson, Equipment, Odd Molly, IzOLA, Joie, and other trendy, notable labels, it’s no wonder why this storefront has become such a success. MANiAC MAgAZiNE: How would you describe your personal style? KRiSTi MOSS: If I had to choose one word I would have to say eclectic. Eclectic dressing involves picking clothes from all different styles and mixing them together in a way that is unique. This is me. It has to look effortless. Effortless is so appealing.

are so spunky and totally appropriate for any age. They aren’t going to disappear either. Fall 2014 is showing a major trend of chunky cropped sweaters and they are to die for! MM: What are the fi ve key pieces that make up your closet? KM: First has to be long cashmere overcoats/ sweaters. I wear these like it’s my job. Day or night, I could not live with these pieces. Second are sneakers and boots; essential

MM: What about women’s fashion do you love the most? KM: It’s all about the confi dence great clothes and accessories can give a woman. With the impossible standards that we are smacked with every day, it is so rewarding and refreshing to put a woman in a great outfi t and watch her look at herself and smile because she loves what she sees in the mirror. That’s it; you can’t beat that.

Billabong Cooladas Black Tank Top available at Lulus.com, $24

Topshop Tropical High Waist Bikini, $68

MM: What is your favorite piece at KRISTI BOUTIQUE right now that you secretly want for yourself? KM: I am obsessed with the Equipment bomber jacket that we just got in. Every morning when I walk into the shop I see her and she haunts me. So, yes, there are constantly multiple pieces that I am coveting. It’s dangerous! MM: What key piece of fashion advice can you lend our readers? KM: Be yourself. Fashion is ever-changing and that’s good, because so are you, and so am I. Fashion should reflect how we are feeling on the inside. Stick to the silhouettes that work for your body, but, for goodness sake, have fun with it. Look outwards for inspiration, it’s everywhere. Be unique.

MM: Who is your style icon? KM: I think I have to choose two! I adore both the styles of Ali McGraw and Kate Hudson. Both so effortless in the way they always seem to put themselves together; two cool gals. There is this one photo of Ali McGraw, from years ago, where she is sporting a killer monochromatic look comprised of varying textures: velvet shorts, suede thigh high boots, and a light knit sweater. That photo pretty much sums up her cool factor; she definitely has it. MM: What is your favorite fashion trend of Spring/Summer 2014 and why? KM: Hands down, long asymmetrical dresses over skinny jeans. I am so into this trend right now, and think it looks so cool. It really lends itself to endless styling possibilities and is so unexpected and fresh. I’m hooked. Oh, and crop tops. You don’t need to bare your tummy either. Layered over dresses, tanks, and other pieces, they

or tank. Fourth is this initial ring that I am wearing by Pyrrha. It’s my “me” piece and was given to me by someone very near and dear to me. I won’t take it off. Number fi ve is definitely my Barbour International waxed cotton jacket. It’s a dream. It’s got a classic, military feel, the most gorgeous hardware, looks great with so many different looks, and gets better every year. It’s like I said before, eclectic and mixed-up.

Charlotte Olympia Ana Pineapple Acrylic Shoulder Bag, $1,495

Dolce & Gabbana Orange Pritn Top available at Farfetch, $647

Food For thoUght

MM: What is the future of KRISTI BOUTIQUE? KM: In our two years in business, we have grown faster than my wildest expectations could have predicted. We plan to be in this for the long haul and see where it takes us. That’s the beauty of it; each day we paint our own picture. I wouldn’t want to see the final destination though; the journey is the best part. It’s just like the fashion; let it move you.

Mellow Melon Tank available at Modcloth, $24.99 Carven Patch Sweatshirt available at Farfetch, $221

Rating Royalty iPhone 44S Case in Sprinkles available at Modcloth, $11.99

Visit KRiSTi bOuTiQuE for all of your fashion must-haves and remember to be unique— something we here at Maniac know a thing or two about. Happy shopping! building blocks for any successful outfi t. Third is my vast collection of maxi skirts and dresses. The versatility that these provide is unmatched. Winter or summer, they look amazing layered or solo, with a sweater

www.kristiboutique.com 345 Freeport Rd, Aspinwall, PA 15215 (412) 782-2033 Natural Sweetness Top in Cherry available at Modcloth, $24.99

Forever Fruitful Bag available at Modcloth, $44.99 Charlotte Olympia Elsa Lobster T-Strap Sandal, Coral/Black, $1,495

MANIAC shops

Topshop Flower Lace Tee, $76

Kim Seybert Round Bamboo Placemat available at Barneys, $16

W INE B AR

I S T R O

AND

Filu Hats Stromboli Hat available at Farfetch, $675

lAdiEs Who lUNCh

Live Jazz

Brasserie

NEW ORLEANS JAZZ . NOUVEAU CREOLE MENU

H&M Strapless Dress, $69.95

W EST C OAST K ITCHEN

A T I N O

T Ă&#x20AC;PAS L OUNGE

H&M Chiffon Tank Top, $39.95

Topshop Croc Tri Fold Pocket Purse, $32

AND

H&M Tray, $9.95

Elaine Turner Bella Ecru Clutch, $198

U E V O

Elaine Turner Marlaine Necklace in Tigers Eye, $248

Raw with a Twist

C HAMPAGNE

Helen Kaminski Kalladi Hat in Lipstick/Orchid, $245

LULUS Exclusive Merengue Moment Yellow Dress available at Lulus.com, $42

25 MARKET SQUARE perlepgh.com

Elaine Turner Lola Tangerine Handbag, $398

930 PENN AVENUE seviche.com

947 PENN AVENUE

Topshop Rose Texture Midi Skirt, $96

thesonomagrille.com

24 MARKET SQUARE Emilio Pucci Vintage Glam Sunglasses available at Farfetch, $650

nolaonthesquare.com

Fornasetti Posate Design Plate available at Barneys, $270

MANIAC art Pretty Enough to Eat: Food Photographer Ben Fink By Susie Meister

For a man who has photographed the food of some of the most famous chefs in the world and worked with some of the entertainment industry’s biggest names, Ben Fink is extraordinarily humble. “I sometimes think even though everyone has my number, the phone is never going to ring again,” he says despite having a résumé that reads like a who’s who of the foodie world. Fink has been called “a master of visual harmony” and photography blogs fawn over his ability to make food come alive and tell a story. Despite his success, his journey to food photography was what he calls “accidental.” After studying painting and feeling somewhat bored and lonely in the studio by himself all day, he opted to assist a photographer and try something different. It was then that Ben fell in love with storytelling through photography. Although it seems like taking pictures of food would be highly technical in comparison to the experience of photographing people, Fink says they are equally emotional. “I’m trying to tell a story about the food. If it’s light and airy or dense and rich, I need to convey that through the lens,” he says. In the same way a photographer aims to break down the façade of the model, he must also do so with food. After working as an assistant, Ben branched out on his own and was asked to photograph for a food article. It was there that his culinary photography journey began. Ben is now the photographer of choice for the likes of Bobby Flay, Paula Deen, Ted Allen, Trisha Yearwood, Suvir Saran and Bobby Deen. You have undoubtedly seen his work in the pages of cookbooks, where he is entrusted to capture the beauty and lusciousness of the chefs’ creations. Fink says he likes to be on the cutting edge of all that is happening in his field. As soon as people began switching to digital, he invested $40,000 into the technology. His first digital project was a book for Lilly Pulitzer. While most

of us would be petrified to experiment on such a big job, Fink was energized. “I had no idea what I was doing with digital technology at the time. Really, I was winging it!” Despite seeing how he would do the images differently now, it is this commitment to self-improvement that he has become known for in the industry. It is with this spirit of adventure that he decided to take on the art of directing and producing videos. If shows like “Top Chef,” “Chopped,” and “Iron Chef America” haven’t proved to you that food is compelling, then you should watch some of Fink’s video projects. He calls this shift from still photography to “motion” a natural progression for him professionally. “I never want to be stagnant,” he says, “I’m always looking for the next thing.” When working on photography projects he now will make video trailers that provide a moving visual that bring the stills to life. “I am finding motion to be an even more effective way to tell the story,” he states, “I am able to give greater depth to the personalities of the chefs and their food.” Because Fink takes food photography very seriously, I was curious how he feels about the recent phenomenon of people taking pictures of their food and posting them to social media. He laughed heartily, and said, “You know, I got past it. I was annoyed for about six months, and thought, ‘If I see one more picture of food online I’m going to scream,’ but then I got over it.” He now sees the humor in it and especially likes when someone who normally posts high-end photos of peppers in a picture of a raw steak or some other random food item every once in a while. Fink says he is constantly inspired by things outside of traditional artistic expression, and encourages people to go outside their field to find inspiration that can fuel their work. He loves the idea of being inspired by the world around us and by things that might otherwise go overlooked. It is easy to see how Ben became so successful—he truly is a storyteller. His description of his favorite guilty pleasure—chocolate-covered almonds—was so vivid I felt like I had eaten one myself. This sense of narrative is obvious in his work, and it makes clear why so many chefs trust him to tell their stories. Even if you lack the vision to see that food has its own personality, anyone can see that Ben Fink knows it's true. His love for his work is infectious and despite his incredible résumé, Fink was warm and open during our chat. He was quick to laugh and by the end he was giving me tips on where to eat when I visit New York. If anyone should know where to get some good eats in the Big Apple, it is Ben Fink. Whether you are leafing through a cookbook or watching a commercial for a restaurant, know that artists like Ben Fink are trying to tell you a culinary story. Bon appétit! Visit his website for more on his work: www.benfinkphoto.com. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram @benfinkphoto

MANIAC events

Chapel HIllS JEWELRY Celebrates 25 Years Written an d P h o t o g rap h e d b y C o dy N ic o l e Wie g an d

To say that Chapel Hills Jewelry is accomplished is an understatement. This local, family-owned jewelry store, a staple in its community, spoils us with beautiful diamond, gemstone, and custom-made pieces, and this year they hit a milestone. The Tesauro family hosted their 25th Anniversary soiree on Saturday, March 29th at The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, and Maniac was honored to attend. The scene was spectacular. The elaborate and beyond beautiful backdrop of exotic vegetation, wildlife and colorful sea creatures took a backseat to the lively crowd. Guests arrived in flocks and were each dressed to the nines in tailored suits and show-stopping dresses. Smiling faces and warm welcomes greeted guests, who were led to the red carpet to pose for photos. Food and drinks were plentiful with an open bar and hors d'oeuvres provided by A Taste of the Wild Catering. Music played throughout the venue, and people danced to sounds from DJ Rockin Rob and the Dr. Zoot band. Perhaps the main attraction was the incredibly successful silent auction, which was filled with must-have pieces included diamond jewelry and signed sports memorabilia. Many organizations and businesses donated items for the auction and spotlight vendors included Maurice Lacroix, Victor Velyan, Simon G, and Samuel Baron Clothiers. Nearly 300 people came to celebrate Chapel Hills Jewelry and their quarter century anniversary. The evening was also about raising awareness and money for charity. Overall, the event raised an astonishing $40,000 for The Brain Aneurysm Foundation, a charity near to the Tesauro family’s heart. With 25 years under their belt and hard-working kids, Lauren and Jonathan, to take on the family business in the future, it’s safe to say that Chapel Hills Jewelry is here to stay. We couldn’t be happier about that. Stop by Chapel Hills Jewelry, located at 503 Freeport Road, and check out their website for a full list of designers and brands that they carry. www.chapelhillsjewelry.com 56

MANIAC events

Fashion for the

Wild

By Susie Meister PHOTOGRAPHY BY Adam Butler

Billed as a “celebration of a passion for fashion and for wildlife,” the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium’s Fashion for the Wild event lived up to the hype. The evening was hosted by WTAE’s Sally Wiggin and actor David Conrad, and featured a fashion show with breathtaking clothing. In keeping with the theme, the featured designs were a nod to the venue with lots of animal prints and earth tones. Among the evening's highlights were live animals for guests to view including a snake, porcupine, and lizard, and the event was staged in the PPG aquarium with plenty of beautiful marine life to capture your attention. Boutiques including e.b. Pepper, Carabella, One Brilliant, and Bear Brandegee of Doncaster provided the clothing, and designers like Sandra Cadavid and Kiya Tomlin delivered some of the night’s most amazing pieces. As fierce as the fashions were, the models held their own. The show featured women (and some men) of all shapes, sizes, and ages including Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium President and CEO, Dr. Barbara Baker. For many, seeing acclaimed actor David Conrad hosting was half the fun. His work in “The Ghost Whisperer” and Wedding Crashers made Pittsburgh proud, and he’s happy to come to his hometown and give back to support wildlife preservation.

The event included fashion, fun, and animals, as promised, and was designed to be a night to support the conservation and education efforts of the zoo. There was a silent auction, raffles, and vendor tables featuring original designs by local artists. It truly was a wild night!

MANIAC jet set

don't MiSS

Among the attractions is Harbour Island’s only village, Dunmore Town, where visitors can search for interesting island finds. There is one store in particular that tourists shouldn’t miss—The Sugar Mill Trading Co.

diSCovering

HARBOR ISLAND

Fresh Conch Salad

b y M a g g i e S ta n K a i t i S

Harbour Island in the Bahamas might be tiny— only 3.5 miles long and less than a mile wide— but it still attracts some of the biggest celebrities. Some A-list actors who escaped the limelight to relax here are Robert De Niro, Harrison Ford, Peyton Manning, Mick Jagger, Jennifer Aniston, and Cameron Diaz. In addition to the on-screen stars, this island is a favorite among fashion icons like Diane Von Furstenberg, zac Posen and Ralph Lauren. For this reason, many consider Harbour Island to be the fashion capital of the Caribbean. Harbour Island’s distinctive pink sand beach, turquoise water, and unparalleled tranquility draw everyday vacationers and celebrities from around the world, who love the island’s fashion, privacy, and unique cuisine

WE ARE HANDSOME, THE BAHAMAS PANEL ONE PIECE

loCal fare

With the ocean just steps away, how could you turn away the unique local fare of the Bahamas? A local dive called Queen Conch is a relaxed, beachy shack where you can find a bite to eat. Queen Conch overlooks the water, and is renowned for its fresh conch salad, prepared right in front of you, with locally-grown, fresh vegetables. zac Posen calls it, “The perfect yoga beach food.” Another local favorite eatery is Sip Sip, (local slang for “gossip”), which is perched on a dune along the beach. “Sip-sippers” cruise up on their golf carts craving some of the best Caribbean cuisine, and will find octopus, spicy conch chili, and grilled shrimp with local mango. Don’t leave the island without a stop here!

MAWI LEMON DRIzzLE GLITTER CLUTCH

VICTOR VELYAN BRACELET , AVAILABLE AT CHAPEL HILLS JEWELRY

What to PaCK

The Harbour Island style is truly a one-of-kind beach bum-meets-Vogue type of place—and we wouldn’t want it any other way. Under-pack for your trip to the island as zac Posen admits to doing, just make sure to bring your strappy chic sandals and a few of your favorite bikinis. Harbour Island’s barefoot elegance also has an old school Ralph Lauren preppy vibe (did we already mention Ralph Lauren is another known Harbour Islander?!). So don’t be shy to throw in some nautical stripes. But in case you do forget some of your beachware staples, or just want some more, you can go to the Sugar Mill boutique, one of the hottest spots to shop on the island. In Dunmore Town, the only village on the island, there is one store in particular that you can’t stand to miss— The Sugar Mill Trading Co. This one-of-a-kind shopping experience offers all visitors clothing, jewelry and accessories unique to this island and this particular boutique.

VICTOR VELYAN BRACELET , AVAILABLE AT CHAPEL HILLS JEWELRY

CLOVER CANYON PANTHS, AVAILABLE AT E.B. PEPPER, JEREMY SCOTT FOR LONGCHAMP PARADISE TOTE

MANIAC jet set

Where to Stay

You’ll never want to leave the Pink Sands Resort from the moment you step foot in the lobby. It has a wow-factor unlike any other resort—it literally takes your breath away—from the pale warm pink color of the walls, to the welcoming ambiance of the candles, vaulted ceilings and gorgeous cabanas. The Pink Sands Resort is a 18-acre home away from home in paradise set on the famous three-miles of pink sands beach. The resort is comprised of charming pastel-colored cottages with ocean access, on-site and off-site activities unique to the Bahamas, golf cart escapades, impressive island cuisine and, of course, peace and seclusion. The Pink Sands Resort also has some of the most distinguished cuisine on the island for both lunch and dinner. The resort features two restaurants, the Blue Bar, and the Garden Terrace both featuring menus created by former executive chef at Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill in New York, Chef Boncich. The Blue Bar is great for a more casual meal, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Grab a few drinks on the beach and a little breakfast in the morning. It’s the perfect spot for a quick bite to eat in your beachwear. The Garden Terrace offers a spectacular dinner—the menu features Caribbean Bistro fare emphasizing items made from locally sourced ingredients and all complimented with a sophisticated wine menu to please any wine connoisseur. Pink Sands Resorts is the place to stay.

Come back soon!

Our room with a

view!

MANIAC feature

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY WARHOLA Courtesy of the Warhola Family

its subject using the aesthetics born to her.

Warhol Wallflower Photographer & Filmmaker,

Abby Warhola

It still astonishes Abby how many of her childhood impressions are reproduced all over the world. On a recent trip to Japan, flashes of Warhol’s bright colorful flowers were transmitted on huge public displays. To her, he was Uncle Andy, and there was a time when priceless artifacts of Warhol’s early renderings were carried on a school bus to show-and-tell or stashed under a dusty bed. Abby was a young girl of thirteen, when the Warhol Museum was first opened, incidentally celebrating its 20th year anniversary this May. “It was fantastic, the big party,” remembers Abby. She also remembers getting stuck in the museum elevator with Dennis Hopper. “He just lectured me about drugs the whole night. I was little, so I didn’t know who half the people were, but I have pictures.”

By Sarah Lolley

bby Warhola sits in the flowery café at Phipps Conservatory with her partner Jesse Best. She looks at Jesse and smiles sweetly. They are raising their daughter in a house, not far from where they sit chatting about Abby’s uncle, Andy Warhol. The house where they live was Warhol’s family home and nurtured his bigger than life love of art, culture, and family. “Every celebrity close to Andy knew a different side of him,” explains Abby. “There was a personal side of Andy that only the family knew.” The couple met through a mutual Warhol Museum acquaintance

and a less than two years later their gorgeous daughter Veva was born. Their daughter’s name is partly a nod to Abby’s favorite Warhol personality Viva, whom she met and whose beauty she admired as a child. Abby’s own beauty is timeless, resembling a young Twiggy from the 60s. She has captured New York Fashion Week and her staging designs have been widely seen on popular wedding and fashion blogs. In the past year Abby and Jesse have made strides as an artistic team that recalls an era of American glamour by using old Super 8 and 16 millimeter film. Abby’s photographic lens innately found

“The party is where I met Peewee Herman. My grandfather silkscreened a four foot Peewee for me. [My grandfather] was the one who led Uncle Andy in his work. He had it; him and baba (grandmother) had it, and really nurtured him.” Abby and Jesse are working on a documentary to be released in 2015, about the familial and personal side of Andy, which never has been documented before. They typically use a Swiss-made Bolex camera, which is the type Warhol used shooting his

famous Screen Tests films of celebrities and personalities. “To meet the family that are so far removed from Andy’s fame that they refer to him just like any other uncle or cousin,” explains Jesse, a professed blue collar, black sheep. “They are this little microcosm of twelve people that are unaffected of how huge he is. That makes them charming and down to earth.” Jesse, who studied film and animation at Edinboro University, also uses Super 8 and 16 millimeter film alongside Abby to create cinematic look books for campaigns and weddings. Abby’s innate ability to pick up subtleties in her frame make her images graceful and dreamlike. “We love the process of film. It’s physical and chemical, it’s nostalgic,” explains Jesse. “You can’t create images like that with modern cameras. And Abby has always been interested in timeless images.” Formally trained as an interior designer, Abby’s eyes admire the work of Norwegian fashion photographer and filmmaker Sølve Sundsbø, and German photographer Ellon Von Unwerth, whose work is widely popular for its erotic femininity and use of black and white images. “For us, it’s a form of art. It’s a form of photography,” explains Jesse. “We aren’t really telling stories, but capturing a brief

moment in time with this film. That’s why Andy’s idea behind his Screen Tests are just kind of genius because it’s a moment in time that can’t be duplicated, it’s its own form of a time capsule.” Warhol’s early Golden Slippers is Abby’s favorite works, she can’t say why but they echo a simple sophistication. It was fun to imagine who would wear the literal works of art. Abby was 5-years-old when Warhol died, but she imagines that if he were still around he would have embraced social media. They both laugh a little and say that they think Warhol would have collaborated with the likes of Lady Gaga, and definitely beat Ashton Kushner for the most tweets. #classic Visit www.abbywarhola.com for more on this talented artist. 65

her personal archives that haven’t been seen in decades. The exhibit is an unraveling of an extraordinary friendship that ignited and entranced a world of popular culture. “Both were renegades in their own fields, because they were breaking traditions at the same time,” says Lesley. “They came together at a time when social morals were changing. It was the perfect storm of societal changes. They were creating this mystique that everybody wanted to be a part of. They used to hang out at Halston’s midtown townhouse before heading to Studio 54, it was a supportive relationship. I think they were both in awe of each other and their amazing accomplishments and respected each other as artists.” Together they created the popularity of celebrity endorsement. Both were on the vanguard of self-promotion and would have embraced social media if not invented it.

Halston’s Heritage Interview with Lesley Frowick The Andy Warhol Museum Celebrates their 20th Anniversary with “Halston and Warhol: Silver and Suede” exhibit. By Sarah Lolley

In the 70s, when boundaries were being blurred and art was taking to the streets, fashion designer Roy Halston Frowick and artist Andy Warhol began a friendship that defined American glamour. For Halston, women of every shape could easily wear his designs with ease and elegance, preferably without a bra. He was of the first designers to pin an elegant drape epitomizing luxurious comfort, and Andy Warhol was the first to manufacture celebrity and everyday objects as art. Currently, the pair is being celebrated as part of The Andy Warhol Museum’s 20th Anniversary Celebration in the exhibit Halston and Warhol: Silver and Suede opening May 20 at midnight. Originating from the archives of both families, the articles reveal an intimate depiction of the icons alongside the museum’s contributions. Halston’s niece, Lesley Frowick, is the co-curator and primary Halston donator, who teamed with Warhol Director, Eric Shiner, share 66

“They both had a similar vision and they were great promoters of themselves,” says Lesley. “They knew how to cross-promote before there were cross-promotions. I remember when Andy would come over to the house, which was often, and he would have in one hand his Olympus camera because he was always taking pictures, and the other hand would have Interview Magazines. He always had some sort of product.” Warhol was mass producing Pop Art silk screens and Halston was bringing American Glamour to the masses. “While Halston was mass producing through JCPenny, which was a very short-lived experience, Warhol was creating his serigraphs and producing multiple variations of a theme.” Both men received criticism from the art and fashion world for their vision. However, they represented the future. “Halston designed for the American woman’s changing lifestyle back in the day,” says Lesley. “He would take a classic item and make it with luxurious fabric in an amazing innovative design, then alter it into a million different silhouettes.” Halston began as a milliner, replicating Parisian fashion until he struck out, turning fashion on its head inventing the shirtdress in a new fabric called ultra-suede produced by Toray Industries in Japan. His brand of Grecian gowns, kaftans, and jersey jumpsuits still define comfortable chic today. Who can forget how Sex in the City brought back Halston’s willowy silhouettes? “Most of his clothing was really sensuous; he designed to accentuate the female form. It was a time also when women’s libbers were throwing their bras out the windows,”

explains Lesley who also says that she heard from a good source that Halston would simply not allow a bra to be worn by his client during custom-fittings. However, like Warhol, Halston was a man who valued family, never forgetting his Midwestern roots in Iowa. Warhol would come over for Thanksgiving dinner when Halston cooked turkey dinner. Halston even arranged for Warhol to accompany his niece Lesley to one of Liza Minneli’s opening nights. “We had front row seats and it was spectacular, but I kept wondering what am I going to talk to him about?” recalls Lesley. “There was a lot of ‘golly gee’ from him that night, but he was always a really nice, thoughtful man.” Like Warhol, Halston was keen on sending his family members his new designs. Lesley’s favorite piece given to her mother was a red silk Grecian style piece. Her other favorites will be in the exhibit – the show-stopping beaded gowns. In Halston’s last year at the company he founded, Lesley worked closely with him, attending fashion shoots and receiving pointers from some of fashion’s pillars. She reflected the inspiration in her own photography. Sometimes the pair sought refuge in Montauk hiking around Halston’s property while staying in the house he rented from Warhol. One time Halston commissioned Warhol to create an art piece for his 25x15 feet townhouse wall while he was away. When he returned Warhol had installed a blank canvas, which Halston mistook as a statement. It was not until after Warhol’s death did they finally remove it and discover a surprise. However, Lesley will not tell us what it was. She is unearthing that intimate mystery in her book on Halston to be released October 2014. Until then we get to parade through the halls of memories at the friendship that framed a fever of fame. For more info on events and the exhibit go to www.warhol.org 67

MANIAC feature

grit & grace By M arc F riedberg

he S&P Restaurant Group, which is responsible for the delicious eats of Spoon and BRGR, has done it again. Their latest venture, grit & grace, is situated just outside of Market Square Downtown and is open and ready to please your palate.

The restaurant’s name is an expression of opposites and reflects the culinary dichotomy they want to portray. “It is said that everything needs an opposite in order to exist, to achieve balance,” and that is exactly what grit & grace does. They say they wish to push “opposites to the extreme to bring you the most unique and balanced dining experience Pittsburgh has to offer.” They try to deliver this not just through the food, but through the entire experience. This philosophy is incorporated into the restaurant’s design, ambiance, and their approach to food service. Brian Pekarcik (the “P” in the S&P), is both chef and proprietor of

these restaurants. He is an accomplished chef who has worked with several famed and award-winning chefs throughout his career. Brian teamed up with Curtis Gamble, the chef de cuisine of grit & grace, to create a culinary experience that is new to Pittsburgh. Curtis was previously the executive chef at Bread & Wine, a neighborhood bistro in Chicago, which quickly became a foodie destination for its creative use of farm to table ingredients. Before his Chicago days, Curtis was the executive sous chef for Six Penn Kitchen and the executive chef at the Café @ the Frick. He credits the tutelage of Chef Tom Rebstoc, known for his mastery of Italian staples at Bruschetta’s in the South Side, for his impressive understanding of food. It is this cuisine that has Pittsburghers flocking to grit & grace. They offer a variety of options, including traditional and modern dishes many with ethnic flair. They utilize local-sourced craft ingredients whenever possible, and make everything (including the trio of condiments on each table) in house.

Chef Curtis believes one of his favorites, the steam bun with homemade mortadella, coriander mustard, and bread and butter pickles, is a sophisticated version of the bologna and mustard sandwich on white bread he had as a kid. Most of the dishes are meant for sharing and are delivered to the table as soon as they are ready for optimal freshness. The skate wing cheeks served on top of shaved Brussels sprouts, crispy pepperoni, buttermilk, a garlic crouton and pickled banana peppers are served in large bite size portions and can be ordered as an appetizer at the bar or a main course. One house favorite is the braised goat with curry, appams, and garlic and ginger smashed potatoes. Even the salads have a bit of flare. The iceberg salad incorporates pickled fennel and cucumber, a ginger and miso vinaigrette, and a horseradish crisp. As for the desserts… let’s just say they are perfect for the adventurous and for those who like something new and exciting. For those that don’t want to wait long for their food, they offer an American Dim Sum which consists of a handful of smaller dishes that are brought around periodically on trays. The dishes range from pork belly bites to salmon tartare and are snapped up quickly. This is a changing menu where the chefs can be a bit more creative. The restaurant’s design combines the contemporary Asian influence of dark woods and earth tones with a discreet modern

industrial look with exposed ductwork and various metal finishes. While eclectic, the look creates an upbeat and comfortable vibe. An intimate bar with room for 15-20 people and a few casual, communal tables greet you at the entrance. As you move beyond the bar, high communal tables and slightly elevated booths line the elongated dining area. The seating can accommodate a large group or an intimate pair. While much of the emphasis has been placed on the food, the drink selection is certainly on par with any craft cocktail lounge. grit & grace bar manager, Holly Fridley, and Spoon beverage director, John Wabeck, developed the drink menu. Like the food menu, some of the drinks have an unusual style flavor. Duck Sauce, the signature cocktail, combines whiskey, rum, ginger liqueur and house-made plum sauce. It is garnished with duck liver mousse on a spoon, which is designed to enhance the taste of the drink. Other creative cocktails, draft and bottled beers, along with an impressive wine list round out the menu.

“It is said that everything needs an opposite in order to exist, to achieve balance,” and that is exactly what grit & grace does.

Whether you’re coming for the strength of the “grit” or the elegance of the “grace,” the owners promise you will leave with a satisfied stomach and a pleased palate. Visit www.gritandgracepgh.com for more information or call 412.281.GRIT (4748). Located at 535 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh.

MANIAC art

na Kelly talks in paragraphs, not statements. She speaks quickly, with authority, and has a hint of an accent that is the perfect amount of exotic. She does not censor herself, and has an exuberance that is not bound by the confines of the telephone. Kelly just returned from one of her many trips on location as a food stylist, and quickly runs down her itinerary for the coming weeks. Given her busy schedule, I’m glad I got even a few minutes within what seems like a very full life. Despite her being born in France, Kelly is a Pittsburgher at heart and calls this city her hub. While most people don’t give food photography much thought, there are people who cook, style, light, and photograph the food in magazines, websites, and advertisements. These are the images that are designed to make you salivate, and ideally purchase or prepare the item in the picture. Ana Kelly is one of those people. Kelly began taking cooking classes at Manchester Craftstmen’s Guild in Pittsburgh because traditional cooking schools are quite expensive and she did not want to go into debt. Their small classes were a great fit for this perfectionist. And after she finished her courses she knew she loved cooking, but did not want to work on a line at a restaurant. After some gentle nudging from her partner of twenty years, the late, Amy Lamb, she knew food styling was the path she should take. Kelly apprenticed for 2.5 years and learned the careful art of food styling.

Playing with Food: Food Stylist Ana Kelly B y S usie M eister

For the photo shoots, Kelly cooks everything and then positions every detail of the food in order to create the freshest, most deliciouslooking product. The key, she says, is collaborating with a photographer who can work quickly because the food looks the most appetizing when it is hot off the grill, so to speak. Kelly is passionate about her work and gets excited talking about food, “I know what pork is supposed to look like. I know what the food should look like, so I want to make sure every

detail speaks to how the food is supposed to look.” She says cheese is her favorite food to work with because it is the most difficult. “It dies on you,” she states matter-of-factly. Cheese is a test of how good she is at her job, and Kelly says she loves a challenge. While Kelly seems to be enthusiastic about her work and food, what she seemed most passionate about is what good work comes out of Pittsburgh. “I am proud when people ask me where I am from because they are always surprised to hear I come from Pittsburgh, but they shouldn’t be. There are so many amazing things and people coming out of Pittsburgh.” Kelly rattled off a number of local restaurants that she loves, but some of her favorites are Cure, Meat and Potatoes, and Eleven. “There are so many innovative restaurants that have popped up in the last few years, and it’s exciting to be a part of this growing industry in Pittsburgh,” she says. This is clearly a woman who represents the “quality coming out of Pittsburgh” that Kelly speaks about. She loves what she does and she is ever excited about her job, the next city she’ll visit, and food she’ll cook. While we were always taught never to play with our food, Kelly certainly knows how to do it right. Just talking to her made me hungry—for food and for life. Learn more about Ana Kelly and see more of the beautiful food she has created and styled at www.anakellyfoodstyling.com

MANIAC feature

Hungry HEARTS the

Women of

eatPGH By SUSI E M EISTER

eatPGH is in transition. This group of four women, dedicated to promoting the food scene in Pittsburgh, is so much more than the blog they began in 2009. Since their start they have gathered an enormous following, published two books with another on the way, and began an urban dinner series in the area.

ulia Gongaware, Mandy McFadden, Sarah Sudar, and Laura zorch are the women behind this ever growing brand, and while dining on the city’s best food might not seem like hard work, they are grateful there is four of them to help cover the job. I met with Mandy and Sarah for dinner at Grit & Grace (also covered in this issue), and found out Sarah was coming off of a juice cleanse. Apparently feasting on delicious meals for a living can become a heavy endeavor and periodically one or all of them will do a cleanse to compensate. In true eatPGH fashion they blog about their cleansing experience so their readers can follow along. I was honored to help break the fast, as it were.

As we dined on dim sum, steamed buns, short ribs, and a seemingly endless stream of small plates, I found out how eatPGH has grown from a hobby to a full-fledged brand. “In some ways, the first book really fell into our laps, and we were able to take it from there,” Mandy says humbly. But the truth is that the incredible following they attracted through their thorough local food coverage made them the perfect authors of a local restaurant guide (or three). “Pittsburghers love Pittsburgh,” Sarah said, and this was evidenced when their first book, Food Lovers’ Guide to Pittsburgh became one of the top-selling edition of the Food Lovers’ Guide Series. It was also evidence of the stellar job these ladies do at promoting Pittsburgh restaurants. 72

They are quick to point out that they are not food critics. “We are not classically trained chefs, and we aren’t interested in reviewing the technical aspects of cuisine,” Mandy states. They say they are more interested in telling Pittsburgh where to find the best foods from the perspective of the average customer. Mandy goes on to say, “We are just regular diners, so we try to describe the restaurants’ food and experience from that point of view, and our followers have really responded to it.” As our bellies grew full and the juice cleanse was officially over, I started prying a bit about the ladies’ lives outside of their jobs and eatPGH, but it seems in many ways this project is the love of their lives. They have begun organizing an Urban Supper series where they create a pop-up restaurant for a one-night event that brings together several of the area’s top chefs to create unique menus for their guests. They hosted single mingles (where more than one couple was lucky in love). And they have a progressive brunch that features several restaurants along the way. Their goal, they say, is to move towards a more community-based approach to promoting the Pittsburgh food scene. Their blog, www.eatPGH.com is still thriving and they continue to scope out the area for new and hidden gems, but they are excited about the ways they can bring people together from all walks of life who might otherwise never meet. It is this notion of food bringing

people together that makes eatPGH special. Mandy and Sarah say that when the four of them are eating together, they gossip, laugh, and vent the way everyone does over a good meal. The food is in many ways incidental, while being the best accessory to their friendship. The four women share a passion for Pittsburgh, food, and Pittsburgh food, but they are also passionate about providing helpful information and tips to make the dining experience less intimidating to the average non-foodie. “I think our average reader might be a little intimidated by some of the restaurants we love, so we want to show them how much fun it can be to try something new,” Sarah says. The foursome began their work when the city was developing some cutting-edge restaurants and many world-class chefs were returning to Pittsburgh. The ladies think the technology boom here has pushed the city to create more modern food, and they’re happy to be along for the delicious ride. On the eve of the publishing of their third book, eatPGH is excited about what is next for them and the Pittsburgh food scene. As they transition into the next stage, the women of eatPGH are hungry for all that is ahead. Learn more at www.eatpgh.com and follow them on Twitter and Instagram @eatPGH.

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