Soldoni Fashion Magazine: The Illusion of Control

Soldoni is a fashion magazine based off of the female characters from The Sopranos.

Ideation

When creating my magazine everything started with my ideation. This includes photo inspiration from the show, finding models to fit the parts, and thinking of outfits. I also began seeking out places where I could photograph that had an over the top, strip club-like aura. I also created a mood board using costume materials that gives off an “early 2000’s, I’m rich off of Daddy’s illegal money” vibe.

  

 

  

 

 

After digging through closets and materials I had, I decided to draw these models wearing the clothes I had found. I guess I tried being a little resourceful at first. Then I started doing some accessory inspiration as well. We know these mobsters love their bling.

 

After drawing those out, I realized it was simply not enough and needed to be more extravagant. I searched online and found the exact look I wanted for each character, so I drew it again.

After the visualizing step, I began bringing my ideas to life through photographs. My stunning models absolutely killed it. I took quite a few shoots before having the lighting, positioning and angles I wanted. I shot these at the Graduate Hotel in State Collge. I got not only some great pictures, but some curious looks as well. Here are some of my favorites.

After gathering all of the pictures I planned to use, I started sketching out how I would arrange them with text.  I also continued ideating phrases and titles. I ended up choosing the name "Soldoni" which is the Italian word for "big illegal money.” Sorry Tony, but waste management doesn’t get you a house like that. Since this show is about rich mafia families, I felt it had an elegant sound with an ironic meaning.

  

Once I finalized my layout sketches I began digitally creating layouts in Adobe InDesign. After many color, arrangement and type adjustments, I finally finished the magazine. Glad my tears never made it on there;)

After completing the final digital draft, I printed and assembled the magazine, by hand, using X-Acto blades and rubber cement. Crafting builds character, that’s for sure. I created this video to highlight the physical process of the photoshoots and crafting. 

Photography: Rebecca McSherry
Art Direction: Rebecca McSherry
Physical and Digital Craft: Rebecca McSherry
Costume Design: Rebecca McSherry
Set Location: The Graduate Hotel
Models: Blair Nelson, Anna Kirk, Libby Niedland