2008 : Jody Watley VOGUE ITALIA The Historic Black Issue
Photography: Herb Ritts
Makeup: JoAnn Gair
Hair: Peter Savic
This issue featured 4 covers (Naomi Campbell, Liya Kebede, Jourdan Dunn Sessilee Lopez) only black models, all the feature topics are related to black women in arts and entertainment. It sold out in 72 hours, with 60,000 more copies ordered for reprint. Currently selling for $2,500 on eBay. Did you grab a copy?!
An honor to be in the issue, led by the visionary editor Franca Sozzani.
Jody Watley pictured in vintage dress and clutch attending legendary photographer Herb Ritts birthday party in 1991. “You don’t have to spend a grip and wear designer clothes to look like a million bucks. Style is finding what works for you. Today vintage and repurposed clothing are more commonplace so seek out these options – you’d be surprised as well what you’d find at Goodwill – many items barely or gently worn. In addition you can often find cool deals at consignment stores as well, though more on the pricey end. Pair vintage with contemporary but most of all know what works for you not what trends are. With the prevalence of designers fashion and Instagram photo opps with pricey outfits – don’t get caught up in that game.
.. Always defining myself for myself – my own way. Some get it, some donβt .. Iβm here to live my life on my terms not to peopleβs opinions of me.β – Jody Watley Wattage!
γ»γ»γ»From the Jody Watley photo vaults: 1984 In London – Stephen Jones (known for his work with Jean Paul Gaultier, Grace Jones, Lady Gaga) custom hat and Azzedine AlaΓ―a leather jacketΒ – Photography by Max Vadukul Styling & make up by Jody Watley
My first label Phonogram was not on board with my vision so we quickly parted ways..you’d think because I was in London it wouldn’t have been an issue but it was. Black artists are always often pressured to conform to more ‘relatable’ imagery. On my subsequent American debut and since..I’ve always navigated incorporating high fashion with edgy street style to varying results..but always what I wish to convey – hits and misses.. it’s all uniquely me.
Wishing everyone the best of 2021. Set your intentions and vibrations..and like I always say keep it movin’ – always in gratitude, open to growth, readjustments, self improvement and new opportunities even if you have to create them yourself. Like Mark Twain said – “The secret to getting ahead is getting started” so even when you fall short – begin again, start over – just begin and take it easy on yourself too. Breathe – and don’t carry the weight of other people’s opinions and expectations with you. One of the many lessons 2020 taught is that life is unpredictable and short so don’t waste time living someone else’s life to appease them.Also recognize that you can go out of your way to help some people and you will not be appreciated. Stop going out of your way for people when it’s not reciprocated. Not everyone is on the same page or for the long haul in the many chapters of life – wish them well and move on. 2020 gave me the kick in the pants I was already arriving to, but ultimately opened the door to get back to focusing on the business of and focus on myself – Jody Watley.
Live in your personal joy and happiness and give no fuks about who doesn’t get it and who is not on board. Remember that no matter how good your heart is – not everyone has the same heart as you.
Always find your best light.
Continue to stay healthy and safe and considerate of others.
2020 Rewind. ICYMI (In Case You Missed It). Iβve been sharing a few highlights from the year while promoting βThe Healingβ and my home line launch. Each brings you inspiration AND information!
Excerpt : SHEEN. βHumbled by her reputation as a music icon, Jody Watley defines herself as a template for contemporary music and fashion. She is a Grammy Award-winning songwriter whose career spans decades, countless performances, and millions of fans. Today, Jody continues to prove her relevance in the industry as she reinvents herself and showcases her talents time and time again. Sheβs also committed to inspiring others as an example to βlet your light shine.β So, how does Jody set that example for her fans? Jody shared this and more in this Sheen exclusive you wonβt want to miss.β
2020 Rewind:: ICYMI (In Case You Missed It) – Youβll find lots of recent press interviews, print, TV, digital features which culminated from my 2020 timely Spring / Summer Release βTHE HEALINGβ – just scroll in your free time and do some reading!
Hereβs the September Cover of Faith Heart Magazine and Excerpts:
Joy and inner peace are beauty must-haves; they radiate from the inside out and putting good into the universe.β Always using her voice to inspire others, JODY WATLEY is shining brighter than ever and living fearlessly as she empowers FHM readers in the September edition. Her journey exemplifies what is possible when you donβt allow circumstances to stop you from being you! βWhile others are running their mouths, run your business.β This interview you donβt want to miss. Grab your copy today!
Grammy award winning pioneer in music, video, fashion and style Jody Watley graces the cover of Faith Heart Magazine, September issue looking more beautiful than ever.
The stunning and always fabulous trendsetter opened up to the magazine about creating new special moments with her enthusiasm and passion for living, life, and music.
She also shared about practicing a healthy lifestyle from what you eat to what you consume on social media and using her voice to inspire others.
“Don’t compare yourself or your life to others. When it comes to our personal health and choices, we are the captains of our own vessels,” says Watley.
“With COVID19, think of others not just yourselfβ¦β
