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Photos Courtesy Versace Versace’s iconic Biggie sunglasses are back, making a bold statement in the world of fashion. Featuring the signature golden Medusa medallion, a symbol of power and sophistication, the new collection reimagines an accessory that has defined luxury and attitude for over 30 years. Originally created to honor the legendary rapper Notorious B.I.G., the Biggie sunglasses return as a tribute to the seamless blend of streetwear and high fashion, embodying the spirit of an era. This season, the Italian brand introduces a striking campaign starring two talents shaping the present and redefining the future: singer Sabrina Carpenter and NBA player Alexandre Sarr. Chosen to embody the Versace spirit, both join the Biggie community, a celebration of creators, rebels, and visionaries. “Biggie sunglasses are so much more than an accessory. They’re a statement piece I wear on any occasion. I’m thrilled to be part of this community that means so much to me,” says Sabrina Carpenter, pop star and the face of the new campaign. Photographed by the talented Rosie Marks, Sabrina stuns in a series of striking portraits that capture her energy and authenticity, showcasing how the new Biggie collection seamlessly complements her style. Donatella Versace, the brand’s creative director, emphasizes the enduring legacy of the Biggie sunglasses: “From Notorious B.I.G. to today’s exceptional talents, the Biggie community is made up of rebels, visionaries, and true champions of the Versace spirit. I’m thrilled to welcome Sabrina and Alexandre to our family with these iconic sunglasses.” For fans of the brand and the culture it represents, the new Biggie sunglasses are now available on Versace’s official website. More than just a fashion accessory, they stand as a true symbol of style and attitude. Versace continues to bridge generations and styles, proving that an accessory can be just as iconic as those who wear it. After all, luxury and irreverence never go out of fashion.

Photos Courtesy Saint Laurent SAINT LAURENT RIVE DROITE Los Angeles and SAINT LAURENT BABYLONE are pleased to host an exhibition by artist Antonio Lopez, featuring a selection of his iconic Instamatic and Polaroid photography, curated by Anthony Vaccarello. Antonio Lopez, born in 1943 in Puerto Rico, was a renowned artist, fashion illustrator and photographer who marked the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s with his innovative style and strong influence on fashion and pop culture. His unique style, characterized by dynamic and sensual illustrations, captivated numerous couture houses and magazines. Along with his creative partner Juan Ramos, Antonio Lopez worked for publications such as Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Elle, and The New York Times, and collaborated with designers like Yves Saint Laurent, Charles James, and Karl Lagerfeld. Beyond his fashion contributions, Lopez was also known for his relationships with cultural icons and models like Jerry Hall, Grace Jones, and Jessica Lange. In the early 1970s, while living in Paris, Antonio Lopez began using a Kodak Instamatic camera, and later a Polaroid SX-70, to document his friends, models, and muses, capturing spontaneous glimpses of his everyday life and moments where his social and professional circles intersected. Initially approaching photography as reportage, he quickly became fascinated with it as a means of art production and visual exploration. Working thematically, he created several iconic series in which a location or an accessory became a recurring motif-such as ribbons, a red coat, or a shower stall. He would photograph the same subject multiple times, arranging these images into grids reminiscent of film stills or advertising storyboards. Antonio Lopez' Polaroids and Instamatics are more than just images; they are time capsules that contain the essence of an era defined by a unique and dazzling cultural environment. This exhibition brings together a rich selection of these series and was realized in collaboration with The Antonio Archives, whose mission it is to preserve, protect, and celebrate The Estate and Archive of Antonio Lopez and Juan Ramos. A selection of photography by Antonio Lopez will be exhibited at the SAINT LAURENT RIVE DROITE store in Los Angeles from December 4th to February 3rd and SAINT LAURENT BABYLONE in Paris from Decembe 4th to February 2nd.

Photos Courtesy Kylie Cosmetics Kylie Cosmetics is proud to present the NEW Supple Kiss Lip Glaze – a next-generation, lightweight, lip-caring gloss that provides up to 12 hours of hydration and shine. Available in 6 luminous shades, it glides on effortlessly to deliver a subtle layer of color with a mirror-like finish. This clean, vegan, and cruelty-free formula features Bouncy Wrap technology, which includes a blend of emollients that wrap the lips in a gel-like layer to provide extra softness with radiant shine. “Our lip products are always bestsellers, so I’m excited to share the new Supple Kiss Lip Glaze with everyone. I love how it gives the perfect luminous color and instant shine while keeping the lips hydrated and super soft.” – Kylie Jenner Shades: • Nude Kiss (light pink beige) • All Yours (warm peachy pink) • Lover Girl (raspberry) • Like Magic (clear with diamond pearl) • Rose Bloom (rosewood) • Lovable (brown) Consumer Results: • 100% say it provides the perfect lip shine with a mirror-like finish. • 100% say it is lightweight and glides on smoothly and effortlessly. • 100% say it leaves lips feeling extra soft and supple. • 100% say it does not settle into lip lines. • 100% say the applicator is flexible and allows for precise application. • 96% say it adds dimension to lips and makes them appear fuller. • 95% say it smooths lip lines and leaves lips softer. • 91% say it provides instant shine with just one application. Product-use test conducted under dermatological supervision with 22 women aged 23 to 56. Product used for 3 weeks.

Each year, the Pantone Color Institute makes a choice that goes beyond aesthetics – it’s a reflection of the cultural, social, and emotional moment we live in. For 2025, Pantone unveils its Color of the Year: Mocha Mousse, a warm and inviting shade that encourages a return to harmony and nature. According to Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute, Mocha Mousse was chosen to inspire personal comfort and indulgence. “It’s about reshaping experiences, understanding the importance of small pleasures, and living in the moment,” Pressman explains. More than just a color, Mocha Mousse represents the pursuit of balance between self-care and sharing meaningful moments with others. This earthy tone evokes the simplicity and richness of natural elements, while its versatility promises to shine across various contexts – from fashion to interior design. Mocha Mousse in Fashion Photo: Vanessa Beecroft In the fashion world, Mocha Mousse is a color that exudes sophistication and warmth. On fabrics such as velvet, linen, or soft knits, the shade becomes an invitation to coziness, perfect for cooler seasons. Designers are already incorporating the color into collections that celebrate human connection and understated elegance, featuring pieces ranging from structured coats to flowing dresses. Additionally, Mocha Mousse is a choice that complements both neutral palettes and vibrant tones, creating elegant and creative combinations. Imagine it paired with deep greens, soft blues, or even metallic golds for a touch of glamour. A Return to Nature and Comfort The choice of Mocha Mousse also reflects the growing desire for a deeper connection with nature. In a world seeking to slow down and find beauty in everyday life, this shade symbolizes an invitation to reflection and the celebration of small pleasures. Whether it’s through a walk outdoors, a cup of coffee, or a moment of mindfulness, Mocha Mousse reminds us to live in the present. A Gift to Share “It doesn’t have to be just moments for yourself,” says Pressman. “It’s also something you can gift and share with others.” This idea resonates deeply in product design and gifting trends that aim to create emotional bonds. From scented candles to personalized gift boxes, Mocha Mousse is the color that conveys warmth and affection. Mocha Mousse: The Future is Cozy With its message of comfort and connection, Mocha Mousse is more than just a trend. In 2025, it promises to shape how we dress, decorate our spaces, and interact with the world around us. Pantone’s Color of the Year invites us to embrace comfort, harmony, and the beauty of shared experiences. Welcome, Mocha Mousse.

Photos Disclosure Afago Afago was born during the last Christmas of the pandemic when Nathália Duarte, known as Na, decided to gift her family with a gesture of love. From this deeply meaningful intention came the idea to create handcrafted candles designed to provide moments of serenity and warmth. The concept of familial warmth evolved into the motto “From my family to yours,” which began as a personal sentiment and is now shared in countless homes. The transformation of a Christmas gift into a successful business reflects the founder's creative vision and deep commitment to meaningful connections. The name "Afago," symbolizing a gesture of love, captures the essence of the brand, which prioritizes care and comfort. To this day, each piece is handmade, preserving the personal touch as a cornerstone of its mission. Sustainability is an essential pillar of Afago’s values. Innovative products like the Réchaud , the first wax warmer bar in Brazil, exemplify the brand’s commitment to environmental responsibility. With refill options made from coconut and apricot wax and reusable bases, Afago reduces waste and promotes eco-conscious choices. Despite the challenges of scaling a sustainable model, the brand remains steadfast in its mission to offer products that are both healthy and environmentally friendly. Afago’s dedication to inclusion and empowerment extends beyond its products. The brand actively supports the professional development of women, creating pathways for their entry into the workforce. These initiatives align deeply with Afago’s values and reflect its founder’s belief in fostering a community built on respect and opportunity. By uplifting women’s voices and contributions, Afago transforms its practices into a broader movement for social impact. From the beginning, Afago has emphasized a humanized approach to customer care, aiming to create a familial bond with every interaction. This philosophy spans from the online shopping experience to the moment an Afago candle lights up a home. The brand’s products go beyond decoration—they are instruments of connection, bringing people together in shared moments of tranquility and warmth. With plans for international expansion, Afago is preparing to share its gesture of love with the world. The next steps involve adapting to the needs of different cultures without losing its essence. Through careful observation and collaborations, Afago seeks to blend its values with global perspectives, fostering a meaningful exchange of ideas and opportunities. --- Exclusive Interview with the Brand 1. How did you transform a Christmas gift for your family into a brand that now inspires and lights up so many homes? From the moment I recognized the creative potential in developing the gift, I realized I had the makings of a successful business. We had love and so much to share with the world. With a clear understanding of the purpose behind this intention, we naturally aligned our values and mission, beginning to shape what Afago would become in practice. We focused on providing humanized service, valuing the national market by always offering exclusive products, and making the “Afago moment” indispensable. 2. The slogan “From my family to yours” reflects Afago's essence. How does this concept influence the creation of your candles and the experience you offer to customers? We aim to create a familial experience from the very beginning, starting with humanized customer service that welcomes, assists, and provides solutions. We design and launch pieces capable of lighting up spaces and bringing loved ones together around a special gesture. From the moment customers choose their candle on the website, they feel a sense of belonging and purpose in crafting that special moment. When Afago arrives in someone’s home, it’s more than a product—it’s a sentiment. Gifting Afago is truly about gifting love and care. 3. Sustainability is one of the brand's pillars, as seen in the Bar-Form Réchaud and refill options. What have been the biggest challenges in implementing these sustainable practices? A brand that positions itself against sustainability positions itself against the well-being and health of the world. That’s how we feel, and we know our customers share this view. That’s why, from the very beginning, we implemented strategies to grow while delivering clean, healthy, and sustainable products. The greatest challenge is remaining conscious and scaling without giving in to shortcuts. A company inevitably creates impact, and it’s crucial for every collaborator to understand this responsibility at every stage of the process. 4. Afago also stands out for its projects supporting the inclusion of women in the workforce. How do these initiatives align with the brand’s values and goals? Afago was created by me, a woman, and my stance is imbued with the strength of the women in my ancestry. As a brand, I represent this by valuing, listening to, protecting, supporting, and creating opportunities for other women. This work goes beyond business value, it expands into a social consciousness that impacts the world. It requires dialogue and action to ensure that this community receives what is rightfully theirs. Valuing women isn’t “charity”, it’s giving them what they’ve earned and deserve. 5. With international expansion on the horizon, what are Afago’s next steps to bring this gesture of love to other countries? We study global trends and prioritize understanding human behavior within the context of each country. Our next steps focus on analysis, observation, and introducing Afago into the unique realities of different populations. Remaining loyal to our identity is crucial, but we also believe in fostering an exchange of opportunities and collaborations that arise when we open our doors to the world. 6. How does the concept of “Afago” influence the company’s internal culture and its relationships with both employees and customers? Those who give Afago are sharing affection, those who buy it seek to experience Afago, and we, as creators, aim to share Afago in every product. We’ve built not just a business but a culture that embodies respect, belonging, and warmth. This philosophy shapes how we treat our team, fostering an environment of care and collaboration, and how we interact with customers, ensuring they feel valued and connected to the essence of Afago.

Photos Disclosure Getty Chanel’s Métiers d’Art Fall/Winter 2024/2025 collection took center stage in an awe-inspiring location: the legendary West Lake in Hangzhou, China. Known for its serene beauty and rich cultural history, the setting holds a special connection to the House of Chanel. Gabrielle Chanel herself never set foot in Hangzhou, but the city has been an integral part of her legacy since she purchased a majestic antique Chinese Coromandel lacquer screen, depicting the picturesque scenery of West Lake. This screen remains a cherished piece in her 31 Rue Cambon apartment in Paris. Now, more than ever, the dream of Chanel’s connection to Hangzhou has come to life, with the iconic brand presenting a collection at the very site that has long inspired its founder. The setting, with its stunning views and tranquil atmosphere, perfectly complemented the intricate craftsmanship and timeless elegance that Chanel is renowned for. This Métiers d’Art show highlighted the exceptional work of the Maisons d’art artisans, gathered together at Le19M, who crafted exquisite pieces and embroideries inspired by the Coromandel panels. The collection showcased the remarkable savoir-faire of over 60 ateliers from around the globe, emphasizing the dedication and artistry that Chanel continues to champion. For Chanel, the Métiers d’Art collection is not only a celebration of the brand’s history, but also a tribute to the craftsmanship that has been nurtured over generations. The collaboration between the ateliers and the vision of creative director Virginie Viard results in a collection that seamlessly blends traditional techniques with contemporary design, bringing new life to the legacy of Gabrielle Chanel. This show marks Chanel’s second visit to China, with the first taking place in 2009 in Shanghai. The brand’s return to this dynamic cultural hub underscores the growing influence of Chinese artistry on global fashion and further solidifies Chanel’s commitment to highlighting the intersection of art, culture, and craftsmanship. The Métiers d’Art 2024/2025 collection is more than just a fashion show—it is a celebration of heritage, artistry, and the enduring spirit of Chanel. With West Lake as its backdrop, the collection beautifully captured the essence of Chanel’s legacy, inviting us all to step into a world where dreams, art, and fashion coexist in perfect harmony.

Photos: Pedro Mamoré/ Folha Studio Allglory is an independent brand founded by graphic designers Felipe and Raquel Fiedler, born out of their shared passion for art, fashion, music, and vintage t-shirts. The brand's concept is to create unique designs inspired by the vintage aesthetic of the 80s and 90s and musical influences from movements such as post-punk, new wave, grunge, and alternative rock. Each piece is meticulously crafted in Curitiba in limited quantities, using premium fabrics, boutique laundry processes, and special dyes. The result is high-quality clothing with authentic designs that stand out for their fusion of the past and present. The brand's latest collection, POST-VINTAGE, is more than just a name: it represents Allglory's current moment. Celebrating 10 years of history, the collection marks a new chapter for the brand, reflecting the evolution of its style and vision. POST-VINTAGE embodies the idea that all eras can overlap and blend, bringing together the best of different pasts into something unique and timeless. For Felipe and Raquel, this season is a milestone in their pursuit of designs that reinvent themselves with each new cycle, always with authenticity and respect for their roots. Graphic design is the essence of Allglory, and the brand's creators have always sought to honor this art, drawing references from past eras in a way that sets them apart from fleeting trends. Their inspiration comes from books, magazines, movies, and, most notably, the world of music. Grunge and post-punk have been constant influences, not only through the aesthetics of the bands but also through the graphic art of t-shirts, album covers, and posters from that time. Felipe and Raquel believe that the key to the brand's success lies in creating something genuine, not just a replica of what is currently trending but a piece of design that authentically connects with its audience. Over the years, Allglory has established itself as a boutique brand, offering limited productions and pieces that are true quality treasures. The mix of musical references and loyalty to the vintage style defines the brand's identity, making it special and unique. Looking ahead, Felipe and Raquel plan to expand their collection, introducing not only clothing but also accessories. They also aim to collaborate with icons who continue to inspire them. With POST-VINTAGE, Allglory reaffirms its commitment to creating pieces that transcend fashion, becoming symbols of a lifestyle that uniquely blends nostalgia with modernity. Check out the exclusive interview: 1. The fusion of vintage and contemporary is at the heart of your brand. How do you balance the nostalgia of the 80s and 90s with the originality needed to attract today’s audience? This rock and punk aesthetic has never gone out of style, and with every generation, it reinvents itself. Our goal is always to deliver the best product, something the audience won’t find just anywhere. I also believe that what you’re creating needs to be genuine, something you truly live and not just what’s currently selling. It’s essential to bring in references that aren’t common. I search for and study books, magazines, and items from that era. This allows me to discover treasures and incorporate graphics that aren’t trending but stand out as exceptional at first glance. That’s what makes Allglory different. 2. The POST-VINTAGE collection seems to be a milestone for the brand. What does this new season represent for you as designers, and how does it reflect the evolution of the brand’s style? This year marks the 10th anniversary of the brand. It’s been years of learning about production, finding the perfect fabrics, and understanding who the brand is and what we want to be. Today, we enjoy being a boutique brand, producing small, limited collections while delivering high-quality items. So, POST-VINTAGE is the name we chose to represent who we are right now and a provocation about what the future of nostalgia will be. Perhaps, five years and a few collections down the road, we’ll have an answer. 3. The graphics on the t-shirts are a unique signature of the brand. How do you choose the visual elements, and how do they connect to the narrative you want to convey in each collection? From the beginning, the goal has always been to showcase and elevate great graphic design in Brazil. Every year, we create a mood board filled with aesthetics, themes, phrases, and images we’ve collected over time from books, magazines, movies, vintage pieces, vinyl inserts, and many other sources. However, we always strive to find references rooted in eras, not other brands, to achieve a distinct result that we believe is good,not just something trendy at the moment. Through this process, the ideas for a collection come naturally. 4. What are the key elements you believe define the brand’s identity and make it so special? The main element is being inspired by vintage while bringing it to life with respect and authenticity so that it truly feels like a piece that’s 20 years old. This includes the washes, stitching, fabrics, graphic designs, and inks. And then, of course, there’s the entire aesthetic of alternative rock, grunge, and punk, drawing inspiration from band t-shirts, posters, and magazines from that era. 5. The blend of musical references, such as post-punk, new wave, and grunge, is a strong presence in your pieces. Is there a specific icon or cultural movement that most inspires the brand’s design? Grunge and post-punk have been our biggest inspirations, both in how the bands dressed and influenced fashion, as well as in the entire graphic design aspect of t-shirts, album covers, posters, and more. 6. What are the brand's future plans? Expanding our collection to include a more complete range of apparel, including accessories, and launching exclusive collaborations with icons who inspire us.

‘MODEL’ COVER EDITION - DECEMBER 24 ISSUE Photos and Videos: @photzmuller Make and Hair: @joaocerqueiramakeup Model: @isabellaarantes Personal Artist Manager: @kaiocezzar_ In the special Model edition of Hooks Magazine, Isabella Arantes graces the cover with her contagious energy and inspiring journey. From an early age, dance was an essential part of her life, guiding her first steps in the artistic world and opening doors to her television career. Today, as a stage assistant on Domingo Legal (Brazilian Television Program), Isabella enjoys a light and fulfilling phase, surrounded by a welcoming team that fuels her passion for work. This balance reflects her ability to reinvent herself, seamlessly transitioning between her roles as an artist, entrepreneur, and influencer. Her brand, Bella Bikinis , was born from a keen observation: Brazilian bikinis have always been admired abroad, and while living outside Brazil, Isabella noticed the growing interest of foreign women in the pieces she wore. This sparked the idea of creating a brand that combines her identity with the strength of Brazilian swimwear fashion. Despite the challenges of managing everything alone, the entrepreneur remains focused and promises a 2025 comeback full of new releases and strategic partnerships to further solidify her vision. Travel also holds a special place in her life, not just as leisure moments but as experiences that broaden her perspective. Paradise-like destinations such as the Maldives have dazzled her, but it was in Zanzibar, Africa, where Isabella experienced truly transformative moments. The hospitality and joy of the local people, combined with the natural beauty of the beaches and unforgettable experiences—like swimming with dolphins in the open sea—made this trip a milestone in her journey. On social media, Isabella acknowledges the responsibility of inspiring her followers but maintains a genuine and balanced approach. She prefers to share only what she considers relevant, preserving her privacy and authenticity. Her honest and transparent demeanor brings her closer to her audience, proving that it is possible to be influential without losing one's essence. Check out the exclusive interview: 1: How has dance influenced your life and your professional journey as a stage assistant on Domingo Legal? Dance has always been present in my life since childhood. I think the fact that I've been working on TV from a young age adds to this as well. I love what I do, and I’m loving this new phase at SBT and being part of the Domingo Legal family, who welcomed me with open arms. It’s such a light and enjoyable place to work. 2: What motivated you to create the Bella Bikinis brand, and how do you balance being an entrepreneur with your artistic career? Brazilian bikinis have always been a benchmark. When I lived abroad, many foreign women approached me on the beach asking where I had bought my bikinis. That’s when I got the idea to create Bella Bikinis. It’s very challenging to balance everything, especially since I literally work alone without any help. By the end of this year, I even had to take a break because managing everything by myself was driving me crazy [laughs]. But I promise to come back stronger than ever in 2025! 3: Your travels are an inspiration to many. Which destination has been the most memorable for you and why? I won’t deny that the Maldives is absolutely wonderful—its beauty is breathtaking. But the place that truly left the biggest mark on me was Zanzibar, Africa. The joy of the people, their kindness, and how well I was treated stood out to me. Plus, some of the beaches have water as clear as the Maldives, believe it or not! I also had the chance to swim with dolphins in the open sea, which made it one of the most unforgettable trips I’ve ever had. 4: How do you organize your routine to balance so many roles, such as dancer, entrepreneur, and influencer? As I mentioned earlier, I’ve been feeling a bit overwhelmed, especially with future projects coming up. So, I’ve taken a break from the brand for now. However, my plan for 2025 is to come back full force, possibly with a partnership because I can't be like Anitta and do everything by myself [laughs]. 5: Authenticity on Social Media: How do you view the responsibility of inspiring your followers, and how do you maintain your authenticity when sharing your life? Nowadays, being an "influencer" comes with a great responsibility. I don't share 100% of my life; I show what I want and what I want people to know. I avoid sharing details about relationships, problems, and perhaps some of the bad things that happen—I prefer to disappear for a while instead. However, I also don't portray a perfect life. I say, "Hey sisters, I disappeared because I wasn't feeling well, and that's it." I am what I post, and those who like me will stay. 6: What are your upcoming plans or projects that you would like to pursue in both dance and entrepreneurship? I have many plans and projects. One of them is Carnival—I’ve always dreamed of parading since I was a child, and if God wills it, this big dream will come true in 2025. And, of course, there’s my brand, which I intend to relaunch, but this time with future partnerships.

Photos Disclosure Khloé Kardashian Khloé Kardashian, one of the most influential figures in entertainment and business, is set to make her mark in the beauty industry with the launch of her first exclusive fragrance, XO Khloé . In collaboration with the renowned Luxe Brands, this fragrance is a celebration of her personal and professional journey, embodying her optimism and strength as a mother, entrepreneur, and cultural icon. “I'm so excited to finally share my debut fragrance with all of you. Creating this signature scent has been such a personal and special journey for me and I love every detail from the bottle to the beautiful fragrance itself” Said Khloé. The pre-launch event kicks off this Monday, November 25, at the iconic Harrods store in the United Kingdom, offering an exclusive experience for her European fans. In the United States, the fragrance will debut at Ulta Beauty on December 1, making it one of the most anticipated beauty launches of the year. A Fragrance of Elegance and Authenticity Crafted by acclaimed perfumers Alberto Morillas  and Clément Gavarry , XO Khloé  is a sophisticated olfactory masterpiece. The floral composition blends notes of crystallized rose , praline , musk , and woody undertones, creating a scent that exudes luxury and modernity. Khloé expressed her excitement for the project, emphasizing her hands-on involvement in every step of the process. “I wanted something that not only represented my style but also my essence and journey,” she stated. Luxe Brands echoed the significance of this launch, describing it as a milestone in their efforts to build a premium beauty brand with global expansion plans set for spring 2025. Khloé Kardashian: A Rising Entrepreneur Beyond her foray into the fragrance world, Khloé Kardashian is a well-established figure in the business landscape. As the co-founder of Good American , a brand celebrated for championing inclusivity and diversity in the fashion industry, Khloé has emerged as a powerful voice in the market. Her partnership with Luxe Brands highlights their shared commitment to creating products that combine sophistication and quality. Luxe Brands, recognized for its portfolio of high-performance beauty products, sees XO Khloé  as a unique opportunity to solidify its presence in the luxury market. XO Khloé is more than just a perfume. It is a statement of style, strength, and authenticity—qualities that define Khloé Kardashian.

‘USA’ COVER EDITION - NOVEMBER 24 ISSUE Photos: Yevhenii Trusov -  @yevsonev The special USA edition of Hooks Magazine features travel influencer Ingriddi Almêida on the cover, in an exclusive photoshoot conducted in New York City. Ingriddi began her international journey at the age of 19 while still a Tourism student. Since then, she has explored the world, accumulating transformative experiences in over 30 countries. One of her most memorable trips was to Israel, where she was struck by the contrast between the deep historical significance and the sense of peace she felt while walking through the streets of Jerusalem, reflecting on how diverse cultures coexist in such a symbolic space. Traveling alone came with significant challenges, particularly loneliness. Accustomed to being surrounded by friends, she discovered strategies to overcome this obstacle by participating in local workshops, group tours, and other activities that helped her connect with new people. These experiences inspired her to create a project that organizes exclusive trips for women who wish to travel solo, fostering not only destination exploration but also building support networks among travelers. Additionally, Ingriddi creates personalized itineraries tailored specifically for women, going far beyond simple travel guides. Every detail is carefully designed to provide safety, comfort, and enriching experiences, helping women feel confident as they explore the world independently. For her, traveling solo doesn’t mean being alone—it means enjoying the company of your best self. Among her recommendations for beginners in solo travel, Portugal stands out as the ideal destination, thanks to the shared language, the hospitality of the local culture, and its affordability. Ingriddi also uses her Instagram, @ingridditrips, as a platform to share practical tips and encourage women to embrace the freedom of traveling. Check out the full interview: 1: What inspired you to start traveling solo, and how was your experience on your first solo international trip? From a very young age, at 19, I took my first international trip while I was still a Tourism student and an intern at the Amazonas State Tourism Company, in my hometown. That first experience made me certain that I wanted to work while traveling and discovering the world through my career. 2: What are the main challenges you faced while traveling solo, and how did you overcome them? Loneliness was one of the most delicate challenges I faced. I’ve always been surrounded by many friends, so at a certain point in my travel journey, I found myself alone quite often. What helped me overcome this was participating in local painting workshops, guided tours, and other group activities. These experiences gave me the chance to meet new people and feel less isolated. Additionally, this experience inspired me to create a project that organizes exclusive trips for women traveling solo. The goal is to connect women who don’t have travel companions and encourage them to start their journeys as solo travelers. This project is already underway. 3: Having visited 30 countries, which one left the greatest impression on you and why? Do you have an unforgettable story? Without a doubt, the country that impacted me the most was Israel. It’s fascinating how a place with such heavy historical significance and the site of numerous religious wars can exude such a profound sense of peace. Walking through the streets of Jerusalem feels like diving into centuries of history, where every stone seems to tell a story. What impressed me the most was witnessing the coexistence of people from different cultures, beliefs, and traditions sharing the same space in such a symbolic place. Israel made me reflect on how, even amid conflicts, humanity can find moments of harmony. It’s a place where the past meets the present in a magical way. I left with the certainty that spirituality and history have the power to connect us to who we are, regardless of where we come from. 4: How do the personalized itineraries you create help women feel more confident about exploring the world alone? The personalized itineraries I create go far beyond simple travel guides—they are tools for empowerment. Every detail is thoughtfully designed to meet the specific needs of women who want to explore the world solo without compromising on safety, comfort, and unforgettable experiences. For example, I select accommodations known for their safety and hospitality, activities that foster connections with the local culture in an accessible and reliable way, and restaurants that offer remarkable experiences. I also include practical tips, such as safe transportation options, useful apps, and information about local customs, so they feel like they have a comprehensive guide created by someone who understands the challenges and desires of solo travel. More than that, these itineraries are designed to inspire confidence. They show that it’s possible to explore the world independently, have transformative experiences, and realize that traveling alone doesn’t mean being lonely—it means being in the company of your best self. 5: What advice would you give to women planning their first solo international trip? First, follow my Instagram @ingridditrips. There, I share plenty of tips for solo travelers and am organizing trips exclusively for women traveling alone. When it comes to planning, it’s important to choose a destination that aligns with your profile, research and plan every detail carefully, select safe and highly rated accommodations, always prioritize safety, connect with other travelers along the way, and pack light with practical, comfortable clothing. Embrace the freedom, because you’ll never be the same after this experience. 6: What destinations do you believe are ideal for beginners in solo travel and why? I always recommend Portugal as the number one destination for Brazilian beginners. Sharing the same language makes things much easier, as there’s no need to learn another language to communicate and enjoy activities there. Additionally, Portugal is compact, has an efficient and affordable transportation system, and boasts an extremely welcoming culture. The Portuguese are very hospitable and kind, especially towards Brazilians. The cuisine is delicious and familiar, with many similarities to Brazilian food. Cost-effectiveness is another advantage: compared to other European countries, Portugal is one of the most affordable options. It’s also considered one of the safest countries in the world, especially for solo travelers. The weather is pleasant, and regions like Lisbon and the Algarve have climates similar to Brazil. Lastly, connections with Brazil are convenient, with direct flights from several Brazilian cities to Lisbon and Porto. All these factors make Portugal the ideal destination for those starting to explore the world solo.

Photo Disclosure Wicked Movie In recent days, Wicked , the highly anticipated film adaptation of the beloved musical, has been at the center of rumors regarding alleged salary disparities between its lead actresses, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo. However, Universal Pictures, the studio behind the film, has strongly denied these claims. In an official statement, Universal confirmed that both actresses were paid equally for their roles as Glinda and Elphaba, the story’s central characters. “Reports of salary disparities between Cynthia and Ariana are completely false and based solely on internet speculation. Both women were paid equally for their work in Wicked ,” said a studio spokesperson. Sources close to the production corroborated this statement, emphasizing that the figures circulating on platforms like TikTok and Reddit were unfounded. Rumors and Social Media Reactions The controversy began when unverified lists claimed that Ariana Grande earned $15 million, while Cynthia Erivo received only $1 million for their roles. These alleged figures quickly gained traction on social media and in international press, sparking outrage from fans who rallied in support of Erivo. Much of this backlash stemmed from the belief that, while Glinda is a significant figure in the narrative, the story primarily centers on Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, played by Cynthia Erivo. Many viewed the rumored pay disparity as unjust, given Cynthia’s more prominent role in the plot. A Box Office Triumph Despite the controversy, Wicked  has debuted to resounding success, grossing $162 million globally within its first five days. With a production budget of $150 million, the film, directed by Jon M. Chu, has already secured its place as the highest-grossing opening for a musical adaptation in U.S. history, earning $114 million domestically. Photo Disclosure Internet The Future of Wicked The story of Wicked  is being told in two parts, with the second installment slated for release on November 21, 2025. The initial success of the film, coupled with fan enthusiasm, suggests the sequel will be just as eagerly awaited. While Universal Pictures has not disclosed the exact salaries of the cast, its firm stance against the salary disparity rumors underscores its commitment to preserving the integrity of the production and honoring the actresses who brought these iconic characters to life. Amid ongoing discussions about gender equality and transparency in Hollywood, Wicked  continues to captivate audiences and reinforce its legacy as one of the most beloved musicals of all time.

Photographed by @michaelbaileygates / Courtesy Calvin Klein Calvin Klein unveils its highly anticipated holiday campaign, featuring Cara Delevingne as the face of this season’s celebration of style and sophistication. Inspired by the magic of the holidays, the brand combines elegance and modernity in a collection designed to captivate fashion enthusiasts. In the campaign visuals, Cara perfectly embodies the duality of the season: glamour and ease. Wearing the iconic Sequin Mini Dress , she radiates the sparkle synonymous with holiday festivities, paired with a minimalist and sensual silhouette accentuated by delicate straps. This piece is ideal for those looking to stand out while maintaining an air of elegance. In another look, Cara stuns in a red satin dress exuding sophistication and femininity. The ensemble is paired with crocodile-textured leather boots, adding a modern and bold touch—perfect for Christmas celebrations or end-of-year gatherings. With the tagline “An excuse to shake things up,” Calvin Klein reaffirms its commitment to redefining the basics, turning classic pieces into must-haves for special moments. More than just a campaign, the collaboration between Cara Delevingne and Calvin Klein celebrates the essence of the holiday season: sparkle, confidence, and the boldness to create unforgettable moments. This collection invites you to refresh your wardrobe with versatile pieces that effortlessly transition from casual to sophisticated, catering to every occasion this festive season. Whether you’re looking to shine at a party or enjoy an intimate dinner, Calvin Klein delivers the perfect formula for timeless style with a touch of daring.