Zombie Boy, the Male Model Know for Extravagant Tattoos, Has Passed Away (PEOPLE)
Model Rick Genest, better known as Zombie Boy, has died by suicide at the age of 32. In 2010 Genest, with his striking all-over body art, caught the eye of Mugler’s then-creative director Nicola Formichetti, leading to him being cast in fashion shows and campaigns for the brand. Soon after Lady Gaga famously tapped the model for her “Born This Way” music video, and he memorably appeared in a campaign for Dermablend that saw his tattoos covered in foundation. Both Gaga and Formichetti took to Twitter this morning to express their condolences.
The suicide of friend Rick Genest, Zombie Boy is beyond devastating. We have to work harder to change the culture, bring Mental Health to the forefront and erase the stigma that we can’t talk about it. If you are suffering, call a friend or family today. We must save each other. pic.twitter.com/THz6x5JlpB
— Lady Gaga (@ladygaga) August 3, 2018
Absolutely heartbroken. Rest in Power, Zombie Boy. Sending all my condolences and love to Rico’s family and friends. If you ever need help, reach out. 1-800-273-8255 is the number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. You’re not alone pic.twitter.com/AuapCxj2FU
— nicola formichetti (@formichetti) August 3, 2018
Elton John Thinks Alessandro Michele is the Next Gianni Versace (British Vogue)
“I’m obsessed with him, I’m obsessed with his clothes, I’m obsessed with what he does,” Elton John said of Gucci’s Alessandro Michele in British Vogue‘s September issue. “For me, the only person that was like that in my life before was Gianni [Versace], and when Gianni died, a part of me died. He saw everything, he loved everything, he channelled everything. Nothing was off limits with him. Alessandro is the first thing that’s happened in my life since Gianni died that I can really identify with.”
Prince Harry is Determined to Have a Private Life (Vanity Fair)
After a whirlwind summer that began with their heavily publicized wedding, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are said to be keeping a lower profile for the month of August. Apparently in addition to wanting some privacy with his new bride, the Duke of Sussex is worried that she might become overexposed in the media. “He worries there is too much hysteria around Meghan and he wants to row back a bit,” an unnamed source said. While their privacy should absolutely be respected, is it really so wrong to want daily updates on her fabulous wardrobe?
Eckhaus Latta’s Fashion Exhibit Features Perfumed Air (Vogue)
Eckhaus Latta’s buzzy new shopable exhibit at the Whitney Museum of American Art finally opens to the public today. Before you go, make sure to take note of not only what’s on view, but what’s in the air — apparently the show features the scent “Waves” by Los Angeles perfumery Régime des Fleurs. The future of chic involves engaging all six senses.
The CFDA is Now Accepting Applicants for its Sustainable Fashion Initiative (CFDA)
Yesterday the CFDA announced that the application process for its third iteration of CFDA + Lexus Fashion* Initiative is now open. The initiative is a “virtual residency” for five apparel and accessories brands to transition into more sustainable business models. $80,000 worth of “milestone awards” are available throughout the months-long process, and at the end one lucky designer will be awarded a Lexus Grant of $100,000.
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