Their love is palpable and their spirits remain determined.  

by Velvet Veritas

The star-crossed lovers from District 12.  Panem’s sweethearts.  Regardless of the titles placed upon them, Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark have shown unimaginable bravery in the face of almost certain death, with an unwavering devotion to each other that has inspired and brought a country together.  

From Peeta’s startling revelation of love on Caesar Flickerman’s stage to the moment in the arena they uttered that fateful word, “together,” our nation has had the collective honor of watching these two young people grow in their love for each other, and together, they have risen far past their humble District 12 beginnings.  

"I can’t imagine my life without her," Peeta says, squeezing Katniss’s hand as they sit in their quarters on the last day before their second Hunger Games.  "Katniss is the only reason I’m alive today, and this time, I’m going to protect her.”  Katniss is radiant in a a cowl-neck deep green sweater, sitting as close to Peeta as humanly possible.  She gives him a sad smile before shooting me a worried look.  

"Sorry, I’m not great with words," she says, shifting the leg that’s folded underneath her.  "It’s always been the two of us in this, and… well, he’s my rock.  We’ll go into this arena like we’ve done everything else since this whole thing started—by each other’s side."  

Join Capitol Couture, and the rest of Panem, by reserving your seats today! And to our beloved couple and all the returning tributes, May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor!

The District 12 escort on her outrageous looks.

by Monica Corcoran Harel of Capitol Couture

For years, Effie Trinket has stood out in the Capitol for her signature style. Like a couture cupcake, this fashion pioneer cuts a wide swath in her trademark pastel wigs and architectural frocks. Never once has Trinket been spotted in ballerina flats or any comfortable footwear, for that matter.  One year, during fashion week, Trinket made headlines when she stormed the runway during a Thom Browne show and literally begged a model to let her try on the sky-high platforms.

But in the past season—with the Quarter Quell right around the corner—Trinket has shown that she can outdo herself.  “I'm a celebrity now. I was always a fashion maven, but I feel the pressure to really up my game and show off,” says Effie. “I love to wear fur, feathers, evem butterflies."

Case in point: Her monarch butterfly dress, worn for the Reaping, boasted 10,000 feathers and had to be slipped on to the escort from above because of its structured form and high collar.  (What no one knows is that Haymitch Abernathy and Katniss Everdeen fanned Trinket to keep her cool on that warm, sunny day.)

Some of Trinket’s other recent flamboyant ensembles? “I have names for every dress,” Trinket adds. “One—the blue with the feather shrug—was ‘The Gorilla.’ The belt is incredible too, but there was no eating and barely any sitting in that dress!” For her visit to the Victor’s Village, the escort wore a white leather laser cut Alexander McQueen with snowy curls and boots trimmed in white fur. Effie calls it “The Snow Queen” and says: “Other than the belt, it’s actually comfortable. I’m wearing custom fur boots and gloves too. I love this look so much!”

Of course, the most celebrated escort understands the rigors of beauty. All of her wigs are hand-created for her in District 1, where real gold/platinum threads and diamond dust are made. “The gold wig I wore with the red fans dress was the hardest because it was like fitting architecture to my head,” says Trinket. With Capitol luminaries Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark as her charges and tours galore, this den mother admits that she sometimes has to make some concessions on her routine. “I wear amazing gloves now instead of crazy nails because the nails took 45 minutes to do,” she says.

No doubt, the upcoming Games are a cause of great inner conflict for Trinket. Imagine how she must feel, seeing her Victors off to battle. Still, it’s inarguable that Effie Trinket will continue to be an utter tornado of chic.  From her pink feather faux lashes to her crystal encrusted fishnet hosiery, this Capitol icon will never lose sight of her effect.

The Quarter Quell has officially commenced! And, the Capitol Critics are Raving — the 75th Hunger Games is spectacular. Get your seats!

by Kaysa Minox of Capitol Couture

As our collective eyes are riveted to our hologram screens, we join together as a nation to watch our much-loved Victors enter the arena once more.  But the yearly intensity of the Hunger Games doesn’t end there—nor do the festivities of a Quarter Quell.  Naturally, the most elaborate viewing parties are going on right here in the Capitol.

Our annual Panem-sponsored fete is reserved for the city’s elite, hosting everyone from escorts to architects, engineers to artists. Here, the most cultured citizens swap gossip, exchange odds and even commiserate a bit over the passings to come. It’s cathartic for us all to come together.

Outside, drummers of the tribute parade flank the red-carpeted entry way. Their thudding beats—like the reverberations of our hearts—echo throughout the night.  Inside, power cells in their beehive pattern dangle from the ceiling in a ring of dancing spotlights for those brave enough to occupy them, while thousands of President Snow’s signature white roses languor in graceful bouquets on every surface.  Iridescent fish swim in upright centerpieces while guests gossip and feverishly discuss the Games, which are broadcasted at the front of the magnificent room.

Avox offer French macaroons and other delicacies from silver trays—sampled from a gluttonous spread over several long silk clothed tables. (I spotted one District escort eating dozens of light, meringue cookies, as she nervously watched her Victors onscreen.)  The sartorial trends are spot-on for fall, with feathers, leather, voluminous silhouettes and lots of hardware in full force.  Every avant-garde designer, from Tex Sevario to Bea Akerlund to Jeremy Scott is represented in the over-the-top ensembles of the crowd.

Notable guests include celebrated Capitol Couture designer Trish Summerville, Effie Trinket, and our own editor-in-chief Monica Corcoran Harel. Where are you watching the Games? Who are you wearing? Which District owns your loyalty?

A chat with the Victor who makes us swoon.

by Monica Corcoran Harel of Capitol Couture

Finnick Odair can’t recall how he learned to swim. Or the very first time he crawled on the sandy beaches of his native Career District 4, known for its bountiful fishing industry. In fact, Odair—the only man in the Capitol who can wield a trident both lethally and casually—looks like he may have emerged from the sea as an infant, glistening and gorgeous. But the golden boy certainly grew up fast when he was reaped for the 65th Hunger Games at the age of 14. (Of course, he won.) And nearly a decade later, lucky Odair seems like he hasn’t aged a day.

For the Adonis, who’s known for tying intricate knots and tossing a spear with laser-like accuracy, there can be no distractions. The Games require new skills and the Capitol is watching him closely. (We caught up with Odair just before the start of the Quarter Quell and he was deep in training.) Victors, unlike tributes, already understand the mental and physical duress that awaits them. Odair couldn’t discuss his strategy, of course. “I can’t talk about my private life either,” he said with a blinding smile. Is there a tell-all book in the works?

Here’s what we do know about the evasive Odair: First of all, his impossibly green eyes—like emeralds winking in the sunlight—are real. His tousled beach waves, too, are all natural too. He may be the only Victor barely groomed by a prep team. But his looks are second to his storied physical acuity and loyalty. And this year’s Games, set seaside, seem tailored to his strengths.

On the topic of seducing Katniss or Johanna as a ploy for triumph, Odair merely laughed. The serial flirt has been known to leave a trail of crushes in his golden wake. We also know that he has an appreciation for older women, as his former mentor and fellow Quarter Quell Victor Mags is by his side right now in the Cornucopia. With the Games ongoing, we wish District 4’s best hope control and conquest.

The Gamemakers have out done themselves.

Earlier this year, Capitol Couture brought you an exclusive look at the Gamemakers- brilliant minds working behind the scenes to bring Panem continually exciting and engaging Hunger Games.  Prior to this year’s Quarter Quell, Plutarch Heavensbee (new Head Gamemaker) had stated that he was reluctant to give even the slightest hint of what the shiny new arena would hold, for fear of spoiling any surprises for Panem’s eager public; in retrospect, we couldn’t agree with him more.  

An undertaking of what we can only assume to have been vast proportions, both the layout and features of this year’s Games grounds wildly exceeded any conjectured expectations.  As the tributes travel through the terrain, we see a level of demanded ingenuity tailored to the victors’ unique abilities, talents, and personalities, requiring adaptation at whiplash speed.  We wonder what must have been going through Katniss Everdeen’s mind as the girl on fire surfaced on a platform in the middle of the saltwater center.  

A landscape of physical trials as formidable as their psychological counterparts, this Quarter Quell has shown us everything from terrifying savage beasts to the imitated cries of those closest to and most loved by our tributes, the latter generated by sound mixing software just revealed from District 3.  A reliable source tells us the unforgiving fog has been years in the making, as it proved a near-impossible undertaking- yet the extensive Games team pulled through, and the fog was added last-minute.   

Careful calculations played a crucial role in the precarious location of the redesigned Cornucopia and its surrounding extending spokes of land, which extended just out of range of any weapons provided.  The never-seen-before sectioning with individual challenges presented additional tests, allowing the rest of Panem to solve the puzzle of the arena alongside the tributes, and in some cases, even before (we heard bets were placed hours in advance of Wiress’ cryptic clock-related messages).  

The games never cease to amaze, especially in this 75th year—  a true Quarter Quell Celebration! Catch all the Hunger Games action now!

The living quarters in the newly renovated Training Center Everything is Immaculate in the Capitol. A look inside by Capitol Couture

The train that takes our tributes across Panem.  The quarters that all but one spend their last days in.  The stylists may be responsible for their clothes, but it’s the Games interior designers that make sure our tributes spend their last moments before the arena in the epitome of luxury. Capitol Couture sat down with Phil Messina, the production designer, to talk inspiration, functionality, and sending our tributes off in style.  

CC- How do you personally go about translating the future into design? 

PM- Industrial power felt like the right way to go to represent the Capitol; the power of industry over political power.  It had to be over the top and overstated.

CC- As it should be! The interiors of the train cars are particularly elegant.  

PM- Yes, we wanted the train to be a bridge between the Capitol and the districts- it’s the yellow brick road that takes Katniss to Oz.  Deco seemed appropriate; I wanted an elegant design that didn’t overpower what was going on inside, but still embodied the opulence of the Capitol.  

CC- We hear that this year, you were consulted on the design of the new Cornucopia in the arena- can you tell us about that?  

PM- We weren’t actually sure if the Cornucopia would change at all from last year, at first.  The redesign still has elements of the last one, although the more abstract concept looks more threatening for the Quarter Quell.  I had thought about making it out of sea glass, but it just wasn’t feasible on a large scale. 

Thanks to Phil for taking the time to speak with us.  Get your seats to see all things Capitol and a recap of the Games! 

United we are strong. United we will prevail against the treasonous. One nation, one Panem. Support President Snow to ensure the future of our great nation.

The Capitol Ministry of Information will henceforth serve to disseminate all official announcements. Your attention is mandated.

TOMORROW: Join The Capitol in its appreciation for the steadfast and industrious people of this #OnePanem

Citizens! Your diligent work serves your nation proudly. Today, we honor Panem's District Heroes. Admire your brethren and learn more about each hero at TheCapitol.PN. This is a Capitol Ministry of Information mandate. #OnePanem 

CITIZENS: Prepare for an important announcement. Your President addresses the nation of Panem, tonight on Capitol TV.

CITIZENS: Your undivided attention is mandatory. The Capitol has decreed that you spread the unifying message of President Snow’s ‘Together As One’ address throughout your districts.
Esteemed victor Peeta Mellark stands with President Snow in his efforts to preserve a peaceful and prosperous Panem.

Capitol Concerns - New At The Capitol PN

"Each district supplies the Capitol like blood to the heart. Nothing can survive without the heart."  - President Coriolanus Snow

In our continuing efforts to promote the ongoing dialogue that keeps Panem strong and true, the Capitol now brings its citizens Capitol Concerns—an open forum to submit questions, suggestions, and concerns for immediate review and timely resolution. We welcome your feedback, opinions, thoughts and comments; let the history of Panem show that when the Districts spoke, the Capitol listened.

Citizens of Panem from every District, we ask you to share your Capitol Concerns at TheCapitol.PN using the form provided. The government of Panem, led by President Snow, will review every submission with care and consideration to guarantee that all citizens’ voices are heard.

The Former 13th District of Panem still smolders.

 Temporary Quarantine Issued For District 12

Scientists from the Panem Department of Homeland Safety (PDHS) have determined that ambient radiation levels throughout the former District 13 have risen significantly over the past month, causing President Snow to issue strict new safety measures limiting citizens' exposure to the still-smoldering area.

PDHS Commissar General, Aurelius Wrenner, publicly announced proactive safety measures have been initiated for the citizens of District 12. The District is now under temporary quarantine to limit exposure to potentially deadly radiation. Peacekeepers have been dispatched to manage the new safety measures and have securely escorted all citizens to temporary safety camps. 

Children of District 12 en route to temporary protective safety camps.

The former District 13 has been abandoned for over 74 years due to the Dark Days Anti-Panem terrorist insurgents' slaughter of countless citizens. Peacekeeper forces heroically liberated it and were successful in defeating the anti-Panem terrorists, but were forced to destroy the area to save it.

For decades, scientists have doubted the possibility of human habitation in the former district due to its high levels of deadly radiation. Even the possibility of wildlife in the smoldering district has been questioned as very little sustainable ecology is said to exist there.

"Radiation levels in the former District 13 rise from time to time." Said Wrenner.  "There is no need for citizens of Panem's surrounding Districts to panic as long as they expressly follow the Department's safety recommendations. "

Citizens of Panem: Please be advised. Make arrangements for the mandatory viewing of President Snow’s second Panem Address, coming TOMORROW to Capitol TV - #OnePanem 

Due to technical difficulties, complete playback of President Snow's Panem Address, "Unity" is unavailable. Please enjoy a transcript of our dear President's rousing presentation, and admire his official Capitol portrait. Victors Peeta Mellark and Johanna Mason stand with President Snow in his efforts to preserve a peaceful and prosperous Panem.

Throughout this great nation, never have we been more unified. Because now, more than ever, Panem is speaking with one voice. The Capitol and the districts bound together in solidarity. Together we are forging a stronger future. Panem Today. Panem Tomorrow. Panem Forever.  

Citizens of Panem - Graffiti is vandalism, and is considered a serious crime, punishable at minimum by public flogging and imprisonment. the Capitol has ordered all graffiti and destruction of official Capitol property to cease and desist immediately! Do NOT share Panem Rebellion filth like this The Mockingjay Lives defacement:

Panem’s vandalism laws exist to prevent the destruction of property and public spaces, and to protect against hate crimes and other dangerous and subversive behavior that may harm you and your loved ones.

For the safety of all citizens, nationwide curfew has been reinstated. No persons should be on the roads after 8:00pm except Peacekeepers, government officials, and emergency personnel. This curfew is declared under the Dark Days Prevention Act. 

 

We went through a lot in the arena, but what’s important now is that Peeta and I are representatives of Panem- Districts 7 and 12 combining our efforts for a better future. It’s really amazing to be featured in these portraits. Peeta and I come from such humble backgrounds- to be representing Panem like never before is such an honor. We are very proud to be featured as the faces of our country.