META MORPH: A Story About Beauty
In a world where the boundaries of beauty are constantly being redefined. Monica Baddar’s latest editorial for IRK Magazine is making waves with its fresh and thought-provoking take on men’s aesthetics. Capturing the essence of transformation through the delicate symbolism of flowers. Baddar’s work dives deep into themes of change and inclusivity.
Baddar, known for her evocative and introspective style. Set out to portray the cyclical nature of life, using flowers as a metaphor for growth and renewal. “The use of flowers in this series isn’t just about decoration,” Baddar explains. “They represent the end of a dormant season and the promise of new beginnings.” Each bloom woven into the model’s hair is a visual cue for the blossoming of new ideas and perspectives. A reminder of how personal growth often comes with embracing vulnerability.
With a Canon 5D Mark IV and a 24-70mm lens, Baddar masterfully plays with light and shadow. Enhancing the delicate beauty of her subjects. The natural light in Baddar’s shots mirrors the gentle warmth of a spring sunrise. Symbolizing hope and the dawn of new possibilities. Her choice of a minimalist setting, combined with the vibrant floral elements. Creates a timeless atmosphere where change feels both immediate and eternal. “The natural light captures the essence of renewal,” Baddar notes. Adding depth to the serene and hopeful vibe of the series.
Beyond the aesthetics, this series is a powerful commentary on breaking norms and embracing non-binary identities within the beauty industry. The incorporation of traditionally feminine touches into men’s beauty is a bold move that challenges outdated masculinity standards. It highlights the fluidity of self-expression. Celebrating beauty in all its forms, urging us to move beyond binary definitions and appreciate the diversity of human experience.
In a landscape where conformity often reigns. Baddar’s work is a refreshing reminder of the beauty found in change and inclusivity. Her editorial for IRK Magazine invites us to see beyond traditional boundaries. Encouraging men to explore new dimensions of their identity and to celebrate the endless possibilities. That come with embracing who they truly are.
Monica Baddar’s latest series is not just about capturing beautiful images; it’s about starting a conversation on transformation and inclusivity. In the blossoming world of men’s beauty, Baddar’s work stands out as a beacon of inspiration. Challenging norms and celebrating the diverse spectrum of self-expression.
Photographer: Monica Baddar @monicabaddar
Model: LZ Granderson @the_grander_son
Hair: Niko Weddle @nikoweddle
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Cannon is our Editor-At-Large since August 2016. He grew up in New York City and was influenced at an early age by rock and fashion. He is an award-winning celebrity stylist, fashion editor and creative director who has styled many of his favorite musicians including Annie Lennox, Cyndi Lauper, Jimmy Page and Shirley Manson. His wit, charisma, and style have made him a trusted and sought-after stylist by Hollywood legends such as Liza Minnelli, Willem Dafoe, Dennis Hopper, and Glenn Close.
Cannon has also worked with some of today's hottest celebrities, including Diane Kruger, Angelina Jolie, Matt Damon, Penn Badgley and Kellan Lutz. He was the first stylist to get Barbra Walters into a pair of jeans for a photo shoot, and had the opportunity to dress Michael Jackson as the KING OF POP for MTV. In addition, Cannon also founded PLUMA- a luxury costume jewelry collection made exclusively in Italy that was recently featured on the cover of Italian Vogue. As a result of working with great musicians and celebrities, Cannon has contributed to multiple publications including: Rolling Stone, Vogue, Time, Entertainment Weekly, Vanity Fair and W. He has styled large casts for every network including: Lost, Sopranos, The View, Project Runway, Kelly, The Today Show, Top Chef, and The Office. Cannon's expertise in fashion also has lent itself to him being in front of the camera as a style expert, with television appearances on E!, Style, VH1, CBS, NBC, ABC, TLC, and Bravo. Cannon has been an on-air spokesperson for TJ Maxx, Burlington Coat Factory, Chapstick, Pantene, Dove, and Peanuts/Snoopy Worldwide. He has also been profiled in American, German and Japanese publications. In addition, Cannon was instrumental in organizing an inaugural panel discussing fashion and film for MEIFF in which he also served as a participant alongside Jason Wu and Kathryn Neale Shaffer, contributing editor at American Vogue.
Whether it's obtaining real museum pieces for a Discovery Channel commercial or recreating 50 unique culturally observant costumes for the worldwide launch of the National Geographic Channel, Cannon's respect for authenticity and his gift of problem solving has left lasting impressions on everyone he has worked with. Additional commercial work also includes Saks Fifth Avenue, Target, Sony Music, RCA, Bravo Network, Sprint, Bergdorf Goodman, and Neiman Marcus.
Cannon has styled fashion shows for Jason Wu and the Life Ball in Vienna, Austria, starring THE BLONDS, which is the largest AIDS benefit runway show in the world, that year hosted by President Bill Clinton and Eva Longoria. Other fashion shows include Snoopy in Fashion, Joanna Mastrioni to name a few. He has also styled shows for Safilo and their licensed brands, which include Gucci, Christian Dior, Emporio Armani, Ralph Lauren, Dior Homme, Max Mara, Marc Jacobs, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Stella McCartney, Banana Republic, Tommy Hilfiger.
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