BARE Magazine Spring 2010

ISSUE 7, MAY 2010

ROUNDING UP REBELS

FROM NINJAS TO COWBOYS BARE PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE LATE FASHION VISIONARY

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN CONTRARIAN CHIC TALK FASHION WITH DISTINGUISHED ANTHROPOLOGIST LAURA NADER

MODERN DRAG, THE WORLD EMBRACES ANDROGYNY

COVER STORY

A RUNAWAY BRIDE’S ESCAPE TO THE CITY: A VISUAL FAIRY TALE WITH A MODERN TWIST

TABLE OF CONTENTS

inside this issue 6

Going Gaga and Beyond

Designers and pop stars collaborate on each other’s domains

experience style……..

7

Who Wears the Pants

Androgynous trends are anything but a drag

expert cutting ● color ● relaxers special event hair & make-up

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Contrarian Chic

Filene’s Basement and fashionable fieldwork with Dr. Laura Nader

9

A Class of Their Own

Familiar campus landmarks get a make over

13

Runaway Bride

Shirking suburban safety for cosmopolitan chaos

18

The Heads and Tails of Spending

Say goodbye to the dilemna of to buy or not to buy

19

Taking to the Tents

Our own John Kim and Seika Iwao reveal their rendezvous and RSS feeds

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REVIEW

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novice h/c- $35 intermediate h/c- $45-$55 advanced stylist h/c- $55 & up color & chemical services starting at $65 & up consultations are always free

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featured products…….. aveda ● schwarzkopf ● phytologie ●aquage

24 Happy Camping

special introductory offer…….. with any booked haircut receive $25 off any chemical service* winnie ● ingrid ● dominique ● brianna ● ashley ● bina *cannot be combined w/other offers. new clients only . excludes accent hl

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These girls reveal their tattoos, and a piece of themselves

30 Contributions for Good Karma

high end service at an affordable price…

2

Glamor communes with nature

29 Branded: When Soul Meets Body

Vine Street Salon is a career salon. Stability in a business is a measure of its success. We are known for the quality and consistency of our work. Programs were developed to offer a multiple price range for most people. It is important to us that everyone has the opportunity to receive a great haircut at a price they can afford!

This talented, diverse and experienced group of stylists are what makes the salon the success it is today.

We love what we do and we look forward to meeting you!

2118 vine street, suite d. berkeley. ca.94709 (510)644-2444

Ambrosial eateries, a boutique to dye for and more!

Inner peace that won’t leave your pockets in pieces

29 Eye Trends We’re Eyeing 32

In more ways than one, green is in this summer

32

Ladies’ Night

The queens of the spotlight take the stage

34 Long Live McQueen

A tribute in memory of the fashion maestro

36 Outlaw

34

Four quintessential badboy styles in action

41

Back of the Closet

A mélange of fashion inspirations and failures

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letter from the editor executive staff Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Creative Directors Editorial Director Editorial Assistant Layout Director Layout Assistant Events Coordinator Events Assistants PR Director Blog Editor Beauty Director Founding Editor, Publisher

staff James An Miraya Berke Michael Bloch Lindsay Brauner Justine Carreon Tina Chen Grace Choi Danielle Ciappara Stephanie Ding Christine Fukushima Samantha Giordano Eunice Gopez Gina Harris Kylie Harris Mayant Lan Veronica Lee Yael Levy Xiaoqian Lim Jacqueline Ma Melanie Manibo Torrin Marquardt Parris McKenley

Ria Meer Mason Mohanna Amaris Montes Paul Morales Kathy Nguyen Saba Omidvar Cher Padua Jeehye Ellen Park Josie Park Lisa Park Tulsi Patel Polina Polishchuk Marissa Rosemblat Katie Sarna Sonia Savalia Aimee Shimizu May Tilden Julia To Ericka Veliz Sarah Yang Carolyn Yoo

advisors Jan Crisostomo Shalwah Evans

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John Kim Jonathan Deniol Rodriguez Nancy Kim, Jordan Silver Nastia Voynovskaya Beatrice Eyales Tiffany Wong T.T. Tu Seika Iwao Lyka Sethi, Erica Smolin Patricia Kim Brittany Curran Michelle Lowe Doreen Bloch

contributors Julianne Chai Nicole Chambers Wendy Chu Lauren Haggard Mary Alice King Simone Anne Lang Harmony Larson Danielle Lee Catherine Lee Cristal Mojica Annalise Petriello Pierson Rohr Bernadette Samson Tanya Shaby Aryn Shelander Michelle Christine Smith Lila Taff Albert Treat Ericka Veliz

On creating an issue that’s out of this world

I

f there are images in this attachment, they will not be displayed. Download the original attachment Who doesn’t love a fashion fairytale? As the stark realization of the economy begins to settle in, fashion becomes the best distraction. Though a land made of Galliano Couture and Kirkwood heels could never be reality, our consumer choices reflect how we create our own fiction through the way we choose to represent ourselves with clothing. It starts from the little things--buying a headband that reminds you of Snow White or knitting your own Gryffindor scarf. Tiny details remind us that we too can certainly live a fairytale of our own.

And oddly enough, many things in the issue really are dreams made reality. Men can dress like women without facing social stigma (page 7), sitting front row at Bryant Park is possible (page 19) and yoga suddenly becomes practically free (page 30)! If this isn’t a perfect world for a die-hard fashionista, I don’t know what is.

Our staff agreed that Sproul could sometimes look a bit drab. We pulled out all the stops--taking beautiful girls out of their hoodies and putting them into ball gowns as they went about their everyday tasks (page 9). Ever thought amiable convicts could be fashion inspiration? They are in our heads, and we want to show you how well these deviants dress (page 36). The release of the Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland got us excited for new adventures. On the BARE blog, we recreated our rendition of Alice having tea with the Mad Hatter, and it’s quite the spectacle (March 5). Finally, we invite you to imagine what camping would be like with disco balls and neon crop tops instead of heavy backpacks and bug repellant (page 24).

As much as we would like to leave our heads in the clouds, we have to bring ourselves back to reality. With the financial support of our sponsors, Vine Street Salon, Pretty Penny, LF San Francisco and Sway, BARE has been able to print our highest number of issues to date. Our photo content is better than ever with the help of local designers and boutiques including Bill’s on Telegraph, Volcom, Mars Vintage, LF San Francisco, Buffalo Exchange, Cari Borja, Stephanie Yeung, Lia Kes, Pretty Penny and Down at Lulu’s. We would like to additionally thank Henry’s in Hotel Durant and Beta Lounge for hosting events that allow us to expand our experience in the fashion industry beyond the bounds of our print publication.

A fantasy only goes as far as you are willing to believe in it. I’m glad that the ASUC and advisor Jan Crisostomo have put their faith in us and encourage us to dream big. We sincerely couldn’t be more thankful. And BARE’s new generation of visionaries deserves some praise as well.

On behalf of myself and the rest of the BARE staff, enjoy this issue. I hope it encourages you to lose yourself in your own Sincerely, fairytale.

contact www.baremagazine.org http://blog.baremagazine.org info@baremagazine.org www.twitter.com/baremagazine

John Kim john@baremagazine.org

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REPORT role as a way to demonstrate influence. This view of clothing as an external expression of the inner self contributes to the mounting pressure cultural icons feel to constantly maintain an appealing image for a demanding public. The recent flourishing of such bonds between high fashion and pop culture has resulted in interesting repercussions of this dynamic.

From sparking the pantsless trend to displaying a new, quirky hairstyle every time she’s in public, Lady Gaga has become an influential style icon at a whirlwind pace.

This risky unconventionality is not accidental. It is a carefully crafted part of Lady Gaga’s persona that results from the efforts of her image team, Haus of Gaga.

The singer has also collaborated with renowned designers such as Giorgio Armani and the late Alexander McQueen, actively employing high fashion to elevate her music to a more elite level of art.

it: 008 Cred 2 Photoe Skennar Kan

Writer: May Tilden

Blurring the lines between fashion and pop culture

L

ady Gaga once remarked, “It’s not just about the music. It’s about the performance, the attitude, the look — it’s everything. And that is where I live as an artist and that is what I want to accomplish.” This statement emphasizes that it is no longer enough to just put on a good show — an idol needs to dominate all facets of mainstream culture in order to be successful. As a result, singers and pop icons have begun utilizing high fashion to gain a kind of elite status and, more importantly, extend their fifteen minutes of fame. As one of the most outspoken celebrities engaged in the practice of deliberately dressing to stand out, Lady Gaga expresses a certain self-awareness which reveals that high fashion’s presence in popular culture is more complicated than the notion of celebrities merely wanting to dress well.

Being both an idol and a style icon is not a new cultural phenomenon. A history of decadent French kings garbed in red heels during the Ancient Regime and the image of Chairman Mao with his Zhongshan suit demonstrate fashion’s long-standing

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This bold aspiration translated into a video brimming with unconventional outfits and pop culture references. A number of interpretations surfaced about how Lady Gaga’s “Telephone” was criticizing issues like the youth’s dependence on technology and the overexposure celebrities are vulnerable to. Though director Jonas Ackerland claimed this analysis wasn’t necessary, it still displays how the singer garners constant attention through her fashion risks.

boundaries, not everyone views the mingling of fashion and pop culture as beneficial. Italian designer Antonio Berardi refused to design for Lady Gaga, alleging that her music is meaningless and would reflect poorly on his brand. His dissent puts into question the meaning of this blending of fashion and pop for both spheres. Making high fashion more available, particularly to the pop sensation of the moment, invariably threatens to diminish its elevated status. What makes high fashion any more special than commercial clothing if it becomes so readily accessible?

This question becomes more pressing as reality T.V. stars such as the cast of The Jersey Shore were falsely rumored to be modeling at New York Fashion Week.

If celebrities with no connection to the fashion world whatsoever are given such privileges, it’s clear that some of fashion’s traditional exclusivity has already dwindled. The Hills stars Lauren Conrad and Whitney Port’s decisions to make clothing lines seem to stem from the logic that since they are reality stars, they somehow have enough taste and creativity to find niches as designers. What’s even more alarming for some is that Port has displayed her line at New York Fashion Week and Conrad has created a line for department store Kohl’s.

Celebrities’ presence in the clothing industry, though upsetting to some fashion traditionalists, is largely celebrated by the general public. This is perhaps due to people’s desire to feel a connection to these idolized figures in society. Celebrities, particularly pop stars, are pressured by the media to act as role models for adolescents. Stars have to be relatable in order to ensure their fans can identify with them and continue to supply them with fame.

These personalities then fill the fashion world’s void for role models by becoming trendsetters.

People are eager for...high fashion to no longer be just for high society.

Lady Gaga is not the only artist who has blurred the lines between pop culture and high fashion. The French designer Thierry Mugler decided to leave his retirement from the industry to help Beyonce design costumes for her “I Am...” tour. These concerts were intended to establish the singer’s alter ego, Sasha Fierce, and she envisioned fashion playing a large role.

Beyonce has also collaborated with the young British designer Gareth Pugh, a favorite of Kylie Minogue. Pugh, though considered a rising British designer, has bemoaned his designs’ slow sales. With a recognizable face like Beyonce now linked to his work, perhaps the fashion public will take a greater interest. It seems that some designers have taken cue from pop stars, using the latter’s celebrity to draw the attention to their work instead of vice versa.

Though many designers are in favor of crossing

Though models are envied, average girls can hardly identify with their dramatically thin bodies and occupations as living mannequins. Reality stars and singers have become a more accessible and observable aristocracy in comparison to the glitterati of the fashion world, so consumers then continue to provide their support.

The increasingly reciprocal relationship between fashion and pop culture reveals then that the general public is ready for societal restructuring regarding typical elite fashion. People are eager for a new generation of stars influential in all aspects of culture and for high fashion to no longer be just for high society. The future of this exchange of taste for availability is unknown, but for now there doesn’t seem to be much from stopping the Lady Gagas of the world from turning their apparel antics into pop prominence.

Who Wears the Pants?

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REPORT Writer: Cher Padua Illustrator: Yael Levy

aul Westerberg of The Replacements crooned “same hair revolution, unisex evolution” for the song “Androgynous,” featured on the band’s 1984 album, Let It Be. These five simple words challenged the hypersexualization of women and the machismo of men. Nowadays, androgynous fashion hardly seems radical. It merely provides a testimony to the acceptance of ambiguous gender roles in various social arenas.

architectural style to create gender-blind silhouettes instead. Formless tops drop squarely down from models’ shoulders, covered with baggy blazers. Both male and female models wear leather platform ankle boots and the occasional thigh high leather boots, hiding the wearer’s gender. Drawing inspiration from the punk movement of the ‘70s, Hourani’s unisex designs are in large part driven by a balanced contrast of gritty leathers and supple silks.

In the late nineteenth century, women began to reject voluminous skirts and constricting corsets, opting for the practicality of pants. By the 1960s, androgynous fashion could have already been called vintage. When glam rock bands like Queen topped billboard charts in the 1970s, an era of switch-hitting men with big hair and silky jumpsuits began. David Bowie brought androgyny to the forefront of rock and roll, donning a dress and long hair on the U.K. album cover of The Man Who Sold the World.

His alter ego, Ziggy Stardust, famous for sporting a red mullet and a lightning bolt painted across his face, went even further with his formfitting sequin leotards, platform boots, feather boas and uninhibitedly sexualized dance moves.

His diffusion line, RAD by Rad Hourani, offers a more casual take on the same concept. The cotton and jersey fabrics allow for less structured clothing with a natural, effortless feel. The diffusion line makes Hourani’s talents affordable, further ushering androgynous fashion into the mainstream.

Besides Rei Kawakubo and Rad Hourani, German designer Jil Sander is renowned for her revival of the ‘80s working woman style, which features tapered trousers, sleek buttondowns and men’s blazers, all in neutral tones.

Her dresses and skirts utilize traditional menswear fabrics like tweed. Similarly, Karl Lagerfeld eliminated gender specificity with boxy outerwear from his fall 2007 collection.

Jersey dresses and formfitting pantsuits were swathed with angular blazers, jackets and trenches that challenged the fashion world’s concept of what makes a female silhouette beautiful. This year, he resurrected androgyny with Chanel’s spring 2010 ready-to-wear collection.

While classically Chanel with its elegant frills and Edwardian accentuation of the waist, the collection also features side-by-side manifestations of the same designs on both male and female models, emphasizing the universality of Lagerfeld’s new designs.

a visual social commentary...finetuned by some of fashion’s greatest.

No longer exclusive to rock stars, openly androgynous fashion has worked its way into the public domain. There still remain social stigmas that plague gender-bending clothing, but recent popularity of this style among designers and celebrities has encouraged trends that transcend heteronormative gender boundaries. In 1994, a male model walked Alexander McQueen’s spring runway wearing a red, form-fitting pencil skirt with a tight blazer cinched at the waist.

Instead of Bowie-esque ostentation, some celebrities prefer to cross gender lines in a more subtle manner. British actress Tilda Swinton of The Chronicles of Narnia has been seen in structured blazers and buttoned blouses boasting traditional male silhouettes.

Androgynous fashion has evolved from a fleeting trend into a visual social commentary that has only recently been fine-tuned by some of fashion’s greatest. Innovations by labels Comme des Garcons and Rad Hourani bring contemporary variations of androgyny to the fashion world. CDG founder Rei Kawakubo’s designs throughout the years have maintained a level of avant-garde ambiguity that reflects the designer’s individuality. She plays with structure and form, which boded well for more unisex looks.

Specialized gender roles are becoming less ubiquitous in pop culture as androgyny takes hold of its many facets. Countless women dress themselves in menswearinspired jackets and oxfords, while some men grow their hair long, don gleaming jewelry and borrow feminine floral prints. There’s no telling what the future of androgyny will be in the fashion industry, but if history is any indication, this unisex revolution is sure to live on.

The Comme Des Garcons menswear line has been straddling the boundary between feminine and masculine as far back as spring 2005. The collection highlighted a classically feminine element with models in all-pink ensembles.

Tight pink button-downs were paired with loose pink slacks, while more masculine pieces were styled with softly rounded pink prints. Rose-tinted glasses and long gold chains with bright pink tassels and pendants served as accessories.

In 2009, Kawakubo continued this androgynous trend with a more subtle approach. Rose brooches, leopard print and black patent accented a subdued color palette while avoiding kitsch. Cabaret hats adorned with feathers, tulle and fur added femininity and eccentricity. In the CDG fall 2006 ready-to-wear collection, Kawakubo synthesized menswear with the soft frills of Victorian designs to create a cohesive fusion of masculinity and femininity. A man’s trench coat is draped with a long ruffled cape; suit lapels adorn the neck of a silky, russet puffed-sleeve dress. Intentionally or not, CDG breaks the conventions of gender coding.

Designer Rad Hourani employs androgynous designs for their practicality.

He cares little for feminine or masculine profiles, using geometric lines and

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PERSPECTIVE

Contrarian Chic Dr. Laura Nader is a distinguished scholar who has been a professor of anthropology at Cal since 1960. She has authored several books and documentaries and teaches the popular undergraduate course Controlling Processes. Also a former model in her earlier years, Professor Nader talks fashion with BARE’s Polina Polishchuk to discuss everything from the makeshift fantasy world one can create at Filene’s Basement to how style has evolved on campus throughout the decades. A popular icon of individualism, Dr. Nader offers us a non-conformist perspective not only on what’s in vogue, but the world at large as well.

A Class Of Their Own

bargain]! Actually, a woman from Boston who came to the department and got a PhD in anthropology and art is now a designer: Cari Borja! It’s just great that she’s doing design work! She’s an up and coming designer in the Bay Area--she’s been written up in the San Francisco Chronicle. So when I get tired of the university setting, I go to Cari’s workshop on 4th Street. I just love going there.

Two girls interrupt the daily grind of campus with these show-stopping outfits.

PP: So do you think fashion plays a big role in society?

LN: Absolutely. It plays a big role. And that could be negative as well as positive. When I was a graduate student, I used to model. Some of my modeling appeared in the Boston Globe. So, it’s just a little bit of lightness in a world that needs lightness.

PP: You have been on campus for a while, how do you think style has progressed through the decades?

LN: Well, let’s take faculty for example. When I first came here, the men wore jackets, ties and shirts--then you enter the ‘70s and the men start dressing like their teenage sons. When women started to be hired here, I had to differentiate myself from the grad students because I was very young. I wore high heels to do that. Women dressed well because the men dressed well.

Polina Polishchuk: Growing up on the East Coast, how do you think the mentality and style of that environment stayed with you when you moved to California? Clearly there is a difference between the two coasts.

Laura Nader: The East Coast is more classic and less trendy. Back then--I don’t know about now--California had such a mobile population, so sometimes it was hard to tell. Berkeley is full of people from New York. Bostonians are really frank with each other, too. The interesting thing about being at Harvard [as a graduate student], which was Radcliffe at the time, was going to Filene’s Basement--you never heard of it? Well it’s a really interesting place. They recently closed the original one, but it’s the first place where stores sold off their excess clothes.

PP: You teach a popular class called Controlling Processes. Do you think that the way women believe they are supposed to dress has to do with control?

LN: Absolutely. Standardized beauty and dress--it’s a form of control. The men aren’t doing that; it’s the women who are changing [the way they dress], so there is clearly a manipulation going on. Some understand this but are trapped and they have to figure out how to get deprogrammed without feeling they have to look like everybody else. Invent your own! Like Cari Borja does.

PP: What’s your personal style?

LN: I’m probably contrarian--what everyone else is doing, I don’t want to do.

Why would you want to look like everybody and conform? I take what occurs to me. For a long time, I used to wear colored stockings. I thought that was cheerful, now it’s trendy.

PP: Oh! This must have been really cheap!

LN: Oh yeah, and it was reduced. Every week or so it went down, down, down. People had a lot of fun going in there. I was actually going to write about Filene’s and call my book “Hunting and Gathering in Filene’s Basement,” but they closed the original store before I could get to it. The reason I mention that is because it was a place of fantasy: the American dream, somethin’ for nothin’. People could return the clothes after prancing around in them, but they could enjoy them, you know, in their fantasy.

PP: So, you don’t believe in trends?

LN: Just more individual style. There are always going to be trends! In the villages [where I did my fieldwork], there were trends too. In the village, they would all wear the same things so they could differentiate from one village to another. When I went back most recently, they were all wearing dresses and I don’t even know where they came from. If we weren’t such a conformist society, it probably wouldn’t matter so much if we were trendy or not, but we are very conformist. What’s caused this? Advertising, corporate domination of our taste and clothes and too much standardization. Now it is going worldwide, with some exceptions of course.

PP: Instant gratification, huh?

LN: Instant! And at no cost to cost them. The lawyers in Boston would all line up for Brooks Brothers suits. Here were all these fancy lawyers lining up [for a

It is nearing 11 o’clock and Dr. Laura Nader gets a phone call from her son.

She says he has just moved some large boulders; the sidewalk builders were blocking her driveway--a climactic ending to a pleasant conversation.

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Head Stylist: Stephanie Ding Production Team: Jonathan Deniol Rodriguez, Melanie Manibo, Jeehye Park, Josie Park, Carolyn Yoo Models: Emily Rossi, Manou Furst Photographer: Simone Anne Lang Makeup/Hair Stylist: Mary King

Gate to Glamour: Red skirt worn as dress ($300), Cari Borja; Purple shoes ($14), Buffalo Exchange; Gold bracelet ($12), Sway; Butterfly necklace ($12), Sway.

Fierce Fitness: Metallic hoodie, Shoes, Running tights, stylist’s own; Butterfly ring ($10.50), Buffalo Exchange; Other rings, stylist’s own.

Uncommon in the Dining Commons: Gold gown ($1200), Cari Borja; Gold shoes ($19.50), Buffalo Exchange.

Runaway

Bride

An exclusive fiction short story by May Tilden

E

mily could see the bus approaching.

Though it was a tiny speck on the horizon, she could feel her heart rate double. She wiggled her toes, as though beginning a slow process of waking up her body, willing it to stand so she could begin her new daunting future. But she remained glued to the bench.

There was no other choice but to walk away from the perfect life lined up for her. The steady relationship with her high school sweetheart, George, endured even their college years and her parents adored him. His marriage proposal on graduation day left her with a pristine, princess cut diamond ring that symbolized a life free from the chaos of choices and frightening freedom that confronted most post grads. However, daunting uncertainty, to her, was better than the idea of returning to the stifling boundaries of the suburban box she grew up in.

Emily hadn’t fully understood exactly how confined she felt until she and George moved into their own cookie cutter home ten minutes away from her parents. This first step toward cementing the binding vows they had made had rattled her, but she tried to neutralize her uneasiness by making it clear to him that she would maintain the independence she always had while they dated.

As the first months of their marriage went on, though, his appreciation for her fiercely free spirit diminished. His support as she desperately looked for a job diminished as his mentioning of children increased. Her parents even began to mention how pleasant it would be to have little tykes running around. Though she long envisioned becoming a teacher, her husband and parents wanted nothing more than the prompt end of her autonomy. She would never become the self-made woman her education encouraged her to be, nor would she ever feel the electrifying sense of a new crush ever again. To her family and husband, she was merely a means of generating a more perfect, reinforced enclosure around their lives.

Glitter Literati: Zebra skirt ($14), Buffalo Exchange; Purple blouse ($16), Pretty Penny; Metallic bracelets ($10), Silver plastic bangles ($4), Silver bangle ($5), Sway; Shoes, Stylist’s own; Glasses, stylist’s own.

Coat ($36), Pretty Penny; Button-up shirt ($16), Pretty Penny; Plaid skirt ($18), Pretty Penny; Leather bag, Sway; Tan heels ($25), Sway.

She acknowledged that her escape to the city was a bit cliche, but it was the only means of breaking free that made sense. Never venturing very far passed the limits of suburbia since their marriage, her parents had grown accustomed to the false safety of familiarity. Emily knew they would never follow her into the foreign streets of the city and couldn’t force her back into the singular normality they knew.

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The bus was no longer a speck on the horizon, some abstract representation of a future full of opportunity.

It was right in front of her and the driver did not look patient. Emily willed her hands out of their whiteknuckle grasp on the bench and, without looking back, took her first step towards a life unknown.

-Seven hours, two peanut-butter and banana sandwiches and a completed book of Sudoku later, Emily stepped off the bus. After a short taxi ride, she was finally at the hotel that would be her temporary home. Having worked all through college, she had enough to pay for a short time, but a job that could extend her current freedom would eventually be necessary. She began to unpack her bags and attempt to make the new space feel like home.

Beneath the multitude of books she’d probably never read again, an already aging photo of her parents and her at graduation and her framed diploma was the one memento that reminded her why she came: her wedding ring. But that’s all she saw it as--a memento, a stark reminder of the subjugation she just nearly escaped.

Eager to make plans, Emily called the only person she knew in the city: her college friend Cara who must have long been enjoying the freedoms Emily had yet to taste.

Though she sounded relaxed on the phone, she could feel her heart flutter as it did when she saw the bus coming.

This would be the first time she would be going out as a single woman, and the idea of throwing herself into her friend’s social circle was daunting. But she went through the motions of getting ready and tried suppressing her nerves. She wasn’t particularly hoping for a successful night, but urge to get rid of the specter of the married woman she would have become seemed to drive all of her recent actions.

Silk button-up ($231), Lia Kes; Thighhigh socks ($15), American Apparel; Leather bag, Sway. Shot on location at Hotel Durant.

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section

The sight of the club, with its illuminated name and line of well-dressed people flanking it, didn’t bring about the pervasive excitement she hoped it would.

When she finally found Cara, some of her nerves were dampened by her friends’ manners. They didn’t ask Emily too many questions about herself, which she didn’t mind since she didn’t feel like she was being singled out. The only one who had given her any regard was Alex, one of Cara’s coworkers. Though everything about him read “pompous,” she welcomed his unnerving glances at her, if only because he seemed to be the opposite of George.

section

Emily began to believe the life she yearned for had finally began to materialize. But her certainty faltered once these self-assured, confident people she hoped to one day make her friends pulled out a substance that she hadn’t seen since her first years of college. The powdery material suddenly drew the attention of the others. She drew back slightly, not enough to be noticed, but enough so she could assess the situation. She wasn’t necessarily against their usage, but she had never tried it and this was definitely not going to be the moment where she laid down all her limits.

There was something in their act of leaving their present reality that underscored the isolation Emily felt since she stepped onto the bus. She looked and felt a tinge of pain as she realized how much she stood out among the crowd. She slowly became aware of how her favorite dress, which she thought would help her blend in, ended up making her stick out amongst the sea of short black dresses. The pain wasn’t the awkward alienation teenagers feel, but rather it was a pain that resulted from realizing her loneliness was self-inflicted. In her innocence, she was the one who didn’t understand city life and had come here with the vague idea that the move would be a catalyst for her emerging future.

Alex noticed she was hesitant. He placed his spindly hand on her knee and looked at her quizzically.

“C’mon, aren’t you here to have a good time?” he asked.

It wasn’t the words that were sputtering from his mouth--his tone brought her mind reeling back to George. He had used the same patronizing yet pleading voice to get her to change her mind about having kids. She gathered herself and made for the door. For the second time in her life, she walked out without looking back on the dismal prospects the situation she had gotten herself in. However, this time she didn’t know where to escape to. Was this the better alternative to the princess cut diamond and the three bedroom house? Was all this chaos and risk worth what she had given up?

She stayed up all night, a good portion of it turning her engagement ring over and over again in her hand. She contemplated its shape, its weight, its emblematic importance. Finally setting it down, she walked out onto the balcony and studied the quiet street below. Though the city had all the bright lights and electrifying buzz she imagined, it had a vicious polish she hadn’t primed herself for. Her hopes for an independent, metropolitan life were receding, but they were far from being replaced by her former picket fence dreams. Perhaps walking away in itself was a decisive first step in fabricating her own route.

On Delisha: Baby-rib one shoulder dress ($42), American Apparel. On Emily: Velvet long sleeve mini dress ($42), American Apparel. On Lisa: Sweetheart two-toned mini dress ($46), American Apparel. On Zoe: Nylon tank pencil dress ($44), American Apparel; Mesh long sleeve mini dress ($42), American Apparel. On Lauren: Asymmetrical dress ($42), American Apparel; Orange draped dress ($218), Lia Kes; Black heels ($25), Sway. Shot on location at Hotel Durant.

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Head Stylists: John Kim, May Tilden Production Staff: Annum Hassan, Yael Levy, Torrin Marquardt, Paul Morales, Tulsi Patel Model: Lauren Thomas Photographer: Catherine Lee Makeup Artist: Julianne Chai Hair Stylist: Clara Kim

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PERSPECTIVE

the heads&tailsof

HAVING taking to

SPENDING a moment Writer: Jacqueline Ma

T

here it was, tucked away in a little boutique, hanging on a rack between the totes and the satchels. I finally found it: the crossbody bag I’ve been searching for. Everything about it was perfect-from its shape to its color–except for one thing: the price. My conscience urged me to hang this purse back on the rack and walk away immediately.

And I did walk away, but with my wallet $170 lighter. But so what? I let my impulses get the best of me and bought the purse despite its steep price. Alas, I had succumbed to quality shopping.

Simply put, oftentimes a direct relationship exists between the quality of clothing and its price. Quality shopping means being choosy and purchasing fewer, pricier items made of high quality materials.

Meanwhile, quantity shopping is a strategic alternative: sacrificing the caliber of clothing to save cash. Shoppers who practice the former are often stereotyped to be social-climbing elitists eager to flaunt their status, but the story is often more complicated than that. Quantity shoppers often treat garments as investments. While labels like Givenchy, Chanel and Lanvin wield heavy price tags, their top-notch fabrics make it possible for every item to become an heirloom. When cared for properly, some designer clothing can endure decades, saving customers from fretting about holes or broken straps.

Quantity shoppers out there must be gaping at this absurd meticulousness, and perhaps with good reason. With the same amount of money, one can walk out of any fast-fashion clothing chain with three t-shirts, a pair of jeans, some cute jewelry and maybe even a pair of shoes. Understandably, many buyers are reluctant to purchase higher priced items when there are cheaper alternatives. With an unstable economy, cheap is especially attractive. Why drop $70 for a Juicy Couture tank top when you can get one for a small fraction of the price at Forever 21, right?

But if that’s the case, then why in the world did I spend $170 on a small purse that I could have gotten elsewhere for cheaper? But that’s just it: I wouldn’t have found a similar bag elsewhere. Santana Row’s Boutique Harajuku in San Jose offers one-of-a-kind pieces of impeccable quality and design that are definitely worth the price. Even the ethics of manufacturing is considerably better. Sometimes, mainstream clothing chains just don’t pass muster.

Quality and quantity shopping each have pros and cons, but it is possible to use both methods to arrive at a compromise. Depending on the case, some might prefer to shop for quality while others might prefer to shop for quantity. However, I wouldn’t doubt that most of us mediate between the two already. Sometimes, it’s best to trust your intuition. A wellfitting designer item could add elegance to your entire wardrobe, but an impulsive buy could leave you with nothing but a dent in your bank account.

My next purchase, you’re wondering? Burberry rainboots. Hey, we all deserve to splurge every now and then.

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Writer: Justine Carreon

dear BARE,

L

ove your magazine, think you’re great– let’s get to the point. I want to wear sequins and the rest can be damned. While I ignore the murmurs my clothing seems to attract, I can’t seem to escape society’s polarized distinction between the feminine and the masculine. “If you got it, flaunt it” seems like an exclusive maxim reserved for the female gender. But my sexuality need not be speculated– society just can’t manage to keep up with a man who’s simply fashion-forward.

Although fellow Berkeleyans are accepting of my Balenciaga city bag and vintage cowboy boots, I still have yet to recover the confidence to exhibit my pair of silk harem pants after a disastrous first-time wearing. There’s nothing like being known as “gay MC Hammer” in your dorm.

If I choose to wear shorts above the tips of my fingers, it may be because of the warm weather, or because they work with my outfit, or most likely because they flatter my calves. I wear jewelry for its elegance, whether it’s designed for a man or a woman.

I want the freedom to wear my chosen outfits without feeling like I’m making an earth-shattering statement. Often, we wear things simply for personal pleasure. Unlike the gorgeous femme fatales who opt for pixie cuts and slacks, men are rarely praised for appropriating garments typically intended for the opposite sex.

I’m not asking for guys to start wearing full-on floral dresses, nor do I plan on wearing six inch heels. I just wish for fashion to be free of its sexually dichotomous divisions. When Coco Chanel touted the male-only pantsuit, it eventually became the norm for women to wear pants. However, skirts for men have not enjoyed the same kind of popularity, even despite Marc Jacobs’s valorous attempts to rock them during fashion week.

Despite the hideous word “murse,” a.k.a. man purse, more men, gay and straight, have begun to see the practicality of carrying a bag. And Prada’s spring 2010 menswear collection included amazing plaid hot pants. Perhaps slowly but surely, the public will move in the right direction.

A style-savvy woman would have few problems sifting through the men’s section in Saks for her own wardrobe, so it would be nice to experience the same no-nonsense situation. I embrace my body and want to adorn it with as many silhouettes, patterns and textures of clothing as I desire. I wish society would embrace me in my chosen attire as well.

ciao for now, fed up and fabulous

PERSPECTIVE

the tents Our own John Kim and Seika Iwao reveal their runway rendezvous and RSS feeds.

Itinerary BCBG Max Azria Cushnie et Ochs Mara Hoffman Red Dress Collection Mik Cire by Eric Kim Wayne Preen Georges Chakra Academy of Art Twinkle by Wenlan VPL Simon Spurr Timo Weiland Tadashi Shoji Temperly London Boudoir D’huitres

A

solemn undertone pervaded New York’s spring runway. Perhaps it was because of McQueen’s unexpected farewell passing at the start of Fashion Week or the unbearable blizzard rush. But despite this, editors and press managed to tackle consecutive shows without missing a beat. By mastering the madness behind fashion week, I learned firsthand how to remain composed when handling the packed schedule for the first time.

Though it’s hard to imagine the chaos that goes on back of house (that’s fashion lingo for “backstage”), my personal experience working as an intern for the Cushnie et Ochs show gave me a fair idea of what actually goes on. My ongoing relationship with my former boss at my summer internship yielded the opportunity to work for my favorite New York duo. Carly Cushnie and Michelle Ochs are the masterminds behind a label with a burgeoning cult following. Their clothes are sculptural, like the visions of Calvin Klein’s Francisco Costa infused with an Alexander Wang-esque downtown urban cool--the perfect equation for a breakthrough brand, if you ask me.

As an intern, there is little room for error, especially on they day of the show. At one time, I was asked to organize the seating arrangements, which makes all the difference in an industry that operates on a hierarchy. Placement of the attendees is not unlike a strategic game of chess, and public relations companies spend hours arranging the pieces. First and second rows are reserved for prominent editors, powerful buyers and close friends of the designers.

These coveted seats are known as the “shoe seats,” a term coined by Vogue features director Sally Singer.

What many don’t realize is that behind those

placid white runway walls, a pandemonium ensues.

Backstage, the whirlwind of PR agents, models and hair and makeup artists busy themselves with getting runway-ready at the last minute.

Meanwhile, reporters add to the mayhem as they try to document the details of the clothes. In the eyes of PR companies, the events backstage are crucial. A missing model or an ill-fitting shoe can usher in an entire wave of events with the potential for runway disaster. Timing and precision are key to ensure that the ultimate presentation is picture perfect.

With so many back-to-back shows, every New York minute counts. Anna Wintour can be seen dashing from her seat as soon as the designer takes the bow to be on time for the next show. Luckily, most runways start approximately 30 minutes past the time noted on the invitation. This gives important editors and buyers time to settle into their seats.

A standing seat, crammed along the peripheries of the walls, does not always mean the end of the world. An empty seat in a photograph makes the show seem uneventful, a reputation all brands want to avoid, so PR assistants will grab the most accessible people to fill in the last empty seats as the half-hour mark nears. Strategically standing near aisle openings makes it easy to be one of those lucky few.

A year ago, I would have never thought that my pilgrimage to the fashion Mecca would be possible.

An opportunity like this doesn’t come knocking on anyone’s door everyday. To experience masterfully crafted clothing in person really does make all the difference.

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ed: tend t A I hows The S RVCA x n o Wass to Erin i Rs l k Tel Fran n milto a H Tim alker W n Kare etti os Bin stets o K s ilio Vass l Idea r a r e n e Ge huilli L e u q Moni etacher AD Azria Max er Walt Tibi

first encountered a legitimate fashion blogger on a flight from San Francisco to New York.

We were both in town for New York Fashion Week. As an avid blog reader, I was curious about the growing group of people who make up the digital fashion community. I have no shame in saying that I keep a folder of all my favorite blogs and check for new posts at least once a day, but until New York Fashion Week, the world behind the computer screen remained a mystery.

When Helen Zhu, CEO of Chictopia, gave me the rare opportunity to attend the Chictopia 10 Social Influence Summit this past February, I was thrilled to finally interact with the most popular bloggers one-on-one. Held at the Allegra Laviola Gallery, the summit brought together the who’s who of fashion bloggers, industry professionals from Teen Vogue and Nylon, along with up-andcoming designers to discuss the intersection of social media, fashion and brand marketing.

Social media has opened up numerous opportunities for bloggers striving towards careers in fashion. For example, the widely-read Jane Aldridge of Sea of Shoes launched a shoe line with Urban Outfitters and other big-time bloggers enjoyed the luxury of front-row seating at fashion shows. At Chictopia 10, big-time bloggers like Aldridge, Camille Rushanaedy of Childhood Flames, and Danny Roberts of Igor + Andre (whose painting of Louise Ebel of Pandora

hough San Francisco is typically considered a center for finance and green technology, many rising fashion designers also call our fair neighbor across the Bay their home. Bacca da Silva, Colleen Quen and Christopher Collins are three standouts coming out of this diverse city. These designers bring their own personal aesthetic to their collections.

Writer: Katie Sarna

Bacca da Silva:

Bacca da Silva is a Brazilian-born, San Francisco-based designer who targets the sleek, urban sophisticate. Pairing sequence with cashmere, equestrian wear with ski clothing, this designer takes pleasure in creating outrageous combinations. But the way da Silva’s designs come together seems so natural. Beautiful embellishments with hints of bright colors grace his muted sweaters and cardigans. Even his blouses covered in sequins and busy patterns are still wearable because he strikes a balance with more subdued items. These hard/soft elements seem to be da Silva’s specialty.

graced the front of the goodie bags) sat among the three hundred other guests with diva-like attitude.

Arguably the most controversial issue that’s emerged from the rise of popularity in fashion blogging is the voice that average people with no claim to fame have gained in the otherwise top-down structure of the fashion industry. The fact that bloggers have gained easier access to readers and consumers have made them powerful marketing tools for the fashion industry. However, now that everyone (and their mothers!) has a blog and the novelty is wearing off, where is the future of fashion blogs headed? One thing is certain though: with the increasing number of blogger and brand collaborations and the rising popularity of social media sites like Chictopia, fashion blogs will undoubtedly remain an influential facet of fashion media.

As far as what fashion bloggers are really like, The Six Six Sick Girls hosted the Chictopia 10 after party at the Tribeca Grand Hotel including DJ Erika Spring of Au Revoir Simone. While joking around and fist pumping with a group of bloggers, I realized that these girls aren’t much different from me. They don’t take themselves too seriously and are just normal people who just happened to be among the very first to be brave enough to put themselves, their outfits and opinions out there. I guess I learned that encounters with bloggers shouldn’t leave one starstruck. But despite this realization, I still think that if I ever do run into Tavi of Stylerookie, I probably wouldn’t know what to do with myself. I mean, she is out of this world.

Da Silva’s menswear line continues the motifs of his women’s ready-to-wear collection with its subtlety. Men who may be more timid when it comes to sartorial risks are bound to be pleased. Timeless looks are reasserted with a bit of flare, like his turtlenecks with extra long sleeves, or shirts with nehru collars borrowed from traditional, Indian men’s jackets.

Though he has taken design classes in the past, Bacca da Silva considers himself largely self-taught. The designer has a markedly strong entrepreneurial drive. He adamantly claims that business sensibility is just as much of a design fundamental as creativity. He has produced runway shows in Brazil and has an MBA from Thunderbird School of Global Management.

“From an early age, I had a calling to participate in the creative world of fashion. In my teens, I became fascinated with how leading fashion designers helped shape our popular culture through their translation of creativity and forward thinking in fashion into the lives of everyday people,” says da Silva.

The fire of his creativity blends together with his business drive the same way the bright trimmings work together with the dark colors in his work. He sees what consumers want and adds own his creative spin.

Colleen Quen

Christopher Collins:

Never one to work on a small scale, Colleen Quen has held runway shows in San Francisco’s many museums. Yerba Buena Museum, deYoung Museum and the Asian Art Museum have been known to house her work. Her designs’ artistic edge makes them much more than the typical eveningwear a handful of ladies might wear to the same event. Colleen Quen is known for her avant-garde, one-of-a-kind displays of elegant couture gowns.

“My collection is a sixth sense of emotion. When a woman is looking herself up and down in the mirror and she loves how she looks, that’s what I design for. I want to be someone’s look-good day,” says contemporary couture and women’s ready-to-wear designer Christopher Collins.

Quen’s technical skill shines through her dramatic dresses with masterfully crafted collars of different geometric shapes. These lavish couture gowns command attention; celebrities such as Tyra Banks, Paris Hilton and Nikki Cox have been photographed wearing Colleen Quen Couture.

“I design for women who take charge of their own lives--women leaders, movers and shakers. Confident women. Women would not wear my work unless they were confident,” she remarks.

Quen graduated from the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in San Francisco. While at FIDM, Colleen Quen apprenticed for designer Simone Sethna, who studied haute couture in Paris during the 1950s when designers such as Dior and Givenchy were in their prime. Sethna breathed new life into Quen’s designs, passing on a philosophy of fashion as art from the French.

With her artistic manipulation of fabric, Quen is a designer who reflects San Francisco’s appreciation of high art.

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The experience of trying on a piece of clothing by Christopher Collins is something surreal. It usually starts out with a gasp followed by a blank stare into the mirror. You may be wearing an article of clothing that you would never imagine yourself in, like a modern Sherlock Holmes-esque cape or wide-legged trousers, but you are guaranteed to be left beaming. The designer infuses his clothing with his unfaltering positive energy.

Christopher Collins adds playful variations to elegant looks. A long-sleeved cocktail dress in his fall 2010 collection is reminiscent of the dresses that Princess Diana sported in the early 1980s as a newlywed. However, Collin’s rendition is cyan blue with an industrialinspired zipper running down the back. His designs are sophisticated but have a lively spirit, similar to the aesthetic of actresses like Audrey Hepburn. Hepburn did not have the va-va-voom physique of many 1950s starlets, but she still turned heads with her impeccable fashion sense that highlighted her best features. Collins knows that modest clothing can have its own cultivated allure.

An SFSU alum, Collins started his own line two years ago in San Francisco. He is now selling online and in boutiques across the country, including SALA Boutique in North Berkeley.

Christopher Collins’ clothing brings out women’s best features, but most importantly, it encourages them to appreciate themselves. After all, happiness is the most attractive quality.

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Photo credit: Bacca da Silva

blogging in the big apple

view

40TH ST

REVIEW

41ST ST

REVIEW

PIEDMONT AVE

SEE:

berkeley ballet theatre

VISIT: a peek at

PIEDMONT B

Writer: Mason Mohanna

GLEN AVE

41ST ST

Nestled in the back of the Julia Morgan Center for the Arts, Berkeley Ballet Theater provides a purely classical dance experience that veterans of the art will find appealing, but those whose acquaintance with dance began and ended with the Macarena should expect to feel equally welcome. Striving to be a school “where all can dance,” the theater offers classes for every type of person above the age of two. There are no exclusions based on ability, body type or experience. Of course, newcomers who have never before felt the snug embrace of a leotard are taught separately from pre-professional students, but everyone can find a class that corresponds to his or her skill level. The people at BBT genuinely love ballet, and the paramount goal of the studio is to make sure that the venerated art form finds its way into as many hearts as possible. There are even classes offered four times a month for people with Parkinson’s disease, free of charge, adding even more sparkle to the studio’s charm.

LINDA AVE

Writer: Yael Levy

etween the end-of-semester pile up of work and the unpleasant weather, it’s hard to find the time to explore everything the East Bay has to offer. When it’s cold and wet and there are stacks of reading to finish, students hardly want to venture out of their comfort zones. But it’s finally summer, so grab the opportunity to stroll in the sunshine while it lasts, and maybe even buy yourself the perfect outfit for a warm weather outing. And if you’re still feeling a little sluggish, don’t worry--you don’t have to go far. A shopping haven, Oakland’s Piedmont Avenue is only a short bus-ride away.

the bee’s knees spectator books

4163 PIEDMONT AVE Complete with nooks and crannies stocked with used and new philosophy paperbacks and outof-print titles, Spectator Books is your classic neighborhood independent bookstore. A central table is piled with noteworthy new books. Standouts include Dave Eggers’ newest novel and a 1965 parody of an etiquette book illustrated by Edward Gorey. There are also DVDs and picture books to browse through. Overall, it’s a little labyrinthine crammed with dusty books to the ceiling. The store is a joy to explore, and you’re sure to find a book or a few worth reading on the shelves.

4024 PIEDMONT AVE The first thing you notice about this charming boutique is the heavenly smell. The Bee’s Knees offers an impressive display of imported French soaps, candles and lotions, from classic fragrances like vanilla bean and verbena to intriguing scents like linden and mint leaf. If you’re looking for a flirty dress to wear in the spring sunshine, they also carry affordable, unique dresses from brands like Funky People and Angie. Best of all, though, is their selection of ReMix shoes--perfect reproductions of ‘40s sky-high heels and ‘30s deco style pumps.

4025 PIEDMONT AVE Truly a store for the design-minded, Nathan & Co carries an incredible array of gifts ranging from patterned cupcake liners to guitar-shaped key covers (keytars, get it?) and everything in between. There’s something for everyone on your list, including yourself. Nathan & Co has kitchen and home gear, t-shirts, and even toys for children. Every single thing on the shelves is clever and designed with a good dose of whimsy. Whether you’re looking for a new screen-printed wallet, a set of mixing bowls emblazoned with birds or a pocket-sized book of pep talks, you’ll find it here. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by the sheer array of awesome knickknacks, don’t worry. The staff is helpful, friendly and just as cheerful as their merchandise.

issues caffe trieste

4045 PIEDMONT AVE You’ll be hungry after all that shopping, and Caffe Trieste is the perfect place for a pick-me-up, be it a smooth espresso drink, a buttery and flaky pastry or a piping hot panini. The coffee is smooth and bold, and you can either grab a spinach and feta pastry for a snack or sit back to enjoy a hot slice of quiche.

The baristas are friendly and fast working, and the atmosphere is relaxed and intimate. You can perch on the sunny bar stools at the street-facing window and watch the passers-by, or grab a cozy table with a friend. Relax, sip your latte and congratulate yourself on your well-chosen purchases!

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20 GLEN AVENUE Magazine addicts beware...and then write this address down! Whether you’re hunting for that elusive issue of Australia’s beloved RUSSH or you’re just browsing for a new magazine all about Scandinavian home design, Issues has what you’re looking for. They’ve got the classics like Rolling Stone and Vogue, but you’ll have even more fun browsing through the racks and exploring the incredible variety of international magazines they have on practically every subject under the sun. And they don’t only sell magazines. Issues also carries an assortment of art books, journals, Slingshot planners and a small but very well-chosen collection of vinyl records and t-shirts. It’s nearly impossible to leave empty-handed, but you won’t regret it once you’re reading a new glossy all about European graffiti or below-the-radar rock stars.

The school emphasizes performance and anyone considering taking classes there should anticipate plenty of time on stage. The shows themselves are elaborate and varied, with original productions balancing traditional ballet staples, such as the rendition of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker performed last winter. Each features rich costumes and the choreography is meticulously crafted by dance experts at the school, demonstrating some considerable creative chops at work behind the scenes. If you are a Berkeley student who is interested in dance, personal fitness or simply the fun of moving in a style whose elegance has endured for decades, Berkeley Ballet Theater is definitely something special to consider. Visit www.berkeleyballet.org for information on signing up for classes or to check out upcoming performances.

nathan & co.

mercy

4188 PIEDMONT AVE This vintage clothing and accessories store boasts one of the most impeccable selections of merchandise found in the East Bay. Obviously handpicked with great care, the ‘50s house dresses and ‘70s paisley blouses will lure you from one corner of the shop to the other. There are no crowded racks of overpriced, lackluster clothes here. Every piece is bonafide vintage, and even better--it’s affordable! You can pick up a flawless ‘60s mod dress for around $30, and since MERCY carries all sorts of clothes and accessories spanning the last century, you might even be tempted by an ‘80s blue suede motorcycle jacket or a pair of woven leather oxfords, too.

SHOP:

snip and shop EAT:

gather for dinner

Writer: Minseob Lee Mixing the elegance of a classy bistro with the warm atmosphere of a neighborhood breakfast nook, Gather’s unique flair will satisfy vegetarians, meat-lovers, healthconscious diners and epicureans alike. Located near UC Berkeley’s West Gate, Gather’s feelgood atmosphere, wide windows and comfortable lighting are all conducive for an easy chat on a first date or a relaxing dinner with friends and family. The restaurant’s open kitchen adds a high-brow marketplace feeling, wellmatched with the friendly service of its down-to-earth staff.

And to call Gather’s food exquisite would be an understatement. It is difficult to ignore the rich flavors complementing their organic dishes--a wonderful combination for those who prefer healthier options without forgoing taste. Some dishes are seasoned with unexpectedly punchy flavors, like fresh fruit juice, and their more exotic courses like barbacoa-style lamb pizza and handmade ginger lemonade are bound to leave first-time customers craving more. Their oven-fresh pizzas on crisp, roasted dough are abundantly flavored. The barbacoa-style lamb pizza, in particular, boasts an eclectic combination of sweet barbecue and Sicilian spices. As for their soda, the addition of ginger adds an interesting touch to the infusion of lemon and honey whose lingering taste is hard to forget.

Writer: Tina Chen

With its bright pink sign and checkered floors, Down at Lulu’s Vintage Boutique and Hair Salon on Telegraph Avenue is hard to miss. Owners Tina Lucchesi and Seth Bogart’s mission statement is to offer their customers a unique shopping experience by bringing two worlds together--a ‘50s-inspired beauty parlor and a vintage clothing store. The staff searches local swap meets and estate sales to add to their distinct collection, so it isn’t unusual for someone to find a ‘60s rock ‘n’ roll mod dress next to a ‘40s-inspired pin-up dress.

Known for their reasonable prices, with the exception of some of the rare vintage designer pieces in their repertoire, Down at Lulu’s provides a shopping experience like no other. Whether you’re taking a much-needed study break or just looking to expand your wardrobe, be sure to drop by Down at Lulu’s for the perfect vintage fix and maybe even a new hairdo to match. Check out their monthly evening art shows and shopping events designed to offer customers a sneak peek of the store’s most recent additions. Digging these details? Visit them online at downatlulus.blogspot.com.

With its creative cuisine and healthful offerings, Gather is here to stay. Though it might be a little heavy on the Cal debit card, your tastebuds won’t be sorry. So if you ever decide to gather around their table, don’t forget to make reservations at this popular new eatery.

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happy camping

pitched tent On Amanda: Dress ($48), Volcom Berkeley; Flannel shirt, Stylist’s Own; Gold necklace ($18), Flower earrings ($4), Yellow ring ($9), Heart ring ($6), Sway; Shoes ($20), Buffalo Exchange on Telegraph.

On James: Shorts ($40), Hat ($20), Volcom; Shirt ($30), Bill’s on Telegraph; Backpack, Bandana, Bow Tie, Stylist’s own; Timberlands ($30), Buffalo Exchange.

up in flames

On Amanda: Denim shirt ($168), Blue crop top ($68), Denim skirt ($138), LF San Francisco; Studded bustier ($21.50), Buffalo Exchange; Pink wallet ($28), Volcom, Leaf earrings ($8), Ring ($18), Sway; Doc Martens ($120), Bill’s.

morning wood On James: DIY cropped T-shirt, Shorts, and Shoes. On Amanda: Plaid button-down shirt ($158), White cut-off shorts ($98), LF San Francisco; Bandeau ($22), Volcom; Pumps ($24), Sway.

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

Head Stylist: Jordan Silver Production Staff: Justine Carreon, Gina Harris, Sonia Savalis, Erica Smolin Models: Amanda Hunter, James Prietto Photographer: Lila Taft Hair and Make-up Artist: Michelle Christine Smith

A

s I walked into the tattoo shop, I could smell the rubbing alcohol, leather and raw skin. The buzzing of the tattoo gun rang in my ears and my family’s concerns flashed in the back of my mind: “Can’t you just draw to express yourself through art? You will never be able to find a job once an employer sees that ink on your skin.” But once I was in the shop, I felt the passion of the people driven to represent themselves with their tattoos and knew that I was in the right place. After three and a half hours of needles penetrating my skin, my tattoo artist, Cindy, wiped away the left over black ink to reveal a ten inch gun on my back that was to brand me for the rest of my life. From then on, I knew I had to deal with the discrimination of those who do not understand the choice to mark one’s body with a work of art.

Despite body modification’s long-standing history across cultures, for most Americans, the practice of permanently imprinting the skin still bears a negative connotation. Body art is widely viewed as a rebellious act intended to contradict social norms. As a result, those with it are perceived as untrustworthy, unprofessional or simply unorthodox. The media undoubtedly fuels these stigmas. Documentaries show prisoners giving themselves tattoos with homemade tattoo guns, and street gangs are notorious for using body modification to distinguish themselves. Many Berkeley students with tattoos have encountered bias rather than acceptance for their ink.

Megan Dodd and Alisha Eastep are members of the campus community who have had to deal with reactions to their large, visible tattoos. Alisha Eastep is a fourth-year Berkeley student with half of her arm covered in bright blues, yellows and greens. Her colorful piece depicts a semi-nude woman springing from a cocoon into a tree full of flowers, the woman looking towards a shining sun. To Alisha, this represented a change in her life as she left her hometown of Bakersfield as a UC Berkeley transfer student and the first person in her family to go to college. “[My tattoo] is a visual metaphor of how it felt to become a woman in a place where you know there is a lot of excitement and possibilites around you, even though you don’t quite know what it is yet,” Eastep says.

Alisha’s mother has no opposition to her body art, but other people in her life are not as open to the idea.

While working as an assistant manager at a movie theater, Alisha’s boss forced her to cover up her arm during her shift, which she found ridiculous.

“I’m no less of a scholar, or person, or woman because of it,” she insists, “As we become professionals, we have the obligation to not carry on those stereotypes.”

In regards to her tattoo of a semi-nude woman, Alisha says, “Men treat me in a slightly more sexually way at times, but generally I receive positive reactions from them.” She is aware that her choice may cause people to view her differently, but she doesn’t regret her decision.

Alisha’s friend Megan Dodd is a Berkeley graduate with three tattoos: a plum blossom covering most of her back, stars behind her ear and her mother’s favorite flower on her arm with their family motto right beneath it.

On Amanda: Denim jacket ($178), LF San Francisco; Swimsuit ($100), Volcom; Fanny pack ($5), Buffalo Exchange; Purple earrings ($9), Sway; Mardi Gras beads, Bracelets, Stylist’s own; Palladium boots ($75), Bill’s. On James: Shorts ($50), Volcom; Woolrich shirt ($80), Timberlands ($155), Bill’s; Thermal leggings, Orange raincoat, Stylist’s own.

branded:

raising the pole

Top: Never one to be squeamish, Amaris doesn’t flinch under the needle. Bottom:The end result is worth the pain.

A tattoo is an unforgettable keepsake.

when

soul meets

BODY Writer and photographer: Amaris Montes

She recalls, “Ever since I was little, I was really fascinated with tattoos because I admired my grandfather’s tattoos of my grandmother’s name and his tattoo from the marines. It was just like a story he would wear on himself. Since I was a little kid, there was no doubt in my mind I would get one.”

Pointing to her large back tattoo, she says, “The plum blossom flowers are there and then they are gone. You have to enjoy the moments in life while you can before they disappear.”

Megan is waiting for the perfect time to have half of her arm tattooed to commemorate her family.

“The experience of getting a tattoo is just as important as the tattoo itself,” she explains, “I got my first one with my two best friends in my kitchen, one in Japan and one with my mother. I want to continue to be able to remember my experience, as well as the tattoo itself.”

Like Alisha, Megan has dealt with negative reactions to her tattoos. But instead of taking things personally, she says that she can look at her tattoos in the mirror and feel confident and at ease.

Just like these women, I got my tattoo for personal reasons. The pistol on my back with the words, “Venganza sera mi arma” (Spanish for “Vengeance shall be my weapon”) was done at a time when I needed extra strength. It serves as a reminder that I will always spring back from moments of weakness and the world will work itself out. So next time you see someone with body art, recognize that they are revealing an intimate element of themselves. Like Megan Dodd says, “It’s like wearing your soul on your skin. Just like little pieces of your story that make you, you. It’s just so beautiful.”

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HEALTH AND BEAUTY

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

In the words of Ymber Delecto, “Yoga is invigoration in relaxation. Freedom in routine. Confidence through self control. Energy within and energy without.” And yoga, in its truest sense, is made for everyone, regardless of their economic status. In an effort to spread the spirit of yoga to all those who desire its benefits, donation based yoga studios offer some or all of their classes purely based on voluntary monetary contributions from students. The Bay Area’s different studios all possess their own particular ambiance, teaching styles and clientèle, ensuring a studio to meet every individual’s yoga needs.

CONTRIBUTIONS FOR GOOD KARMA Writer: Saba Omidvar Illustrator: Nastia Voynovskaya

yoga to the people

This studio, located conveniently on Shattuck Square, has wide windows that welcome beautiful natural light. The interesting street level location is designed to create a moment of calm amidst the flow of the city. The classes are often full and the students enjoy a strong sense of community amongst themselves during each session. With classes offered every day of the week at various times throughout the day, it is possible for anyone to make room for yoga in his or her schedule. Yoga to the People teaches power vinyasa flow classes and encourages students to grow and strengthen themselves both physically and emotionally. With several other locations in San Francisco and New York, it is undoubtedly a firmly rooted organization that prides itself in its ability to sustain itself through student contributions.

But YTTP still maintains its humble roots. Cash-only donations are accepted in an empty tissue box at the door. Be sure to arrive early so you can get a good spot for your yoga mat at this popular studio.

64 Shattuck Sq., Berkeley www.yogatothepeople.com

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Eye Trends We’re Eyeing

f eyes are the windows to the soul, then why not dress them up? But before chasing summer’s eye trends, you should be aware of the harmful chemicals infesting your favorite eyeliners and eyeshadows. Not only do these chemicals harm the environment, but your skin absorbs up to 60% of the product! With the help of our guide, making eco-conscious makeup choices will keep the planet happy and you looking your best. Green is in in more ways than one!

such a vast array of colors to add to your palette.

For a uniquely fresh summer look, sheer green shadows are beautiful when accented with shimmery shades of pearl. Start off by sweeping an iridescent pearl shadow from your lash line to your brow bone.

Next, apply a soft, minty green eye shadow below the brow bone across the entire lid. To open up your eyes a bit more, drag that same pearl shadow along your lower lash line. Finish off with a coat or two of mascara.

Bold pops of color aroåund the eyes create a vibrant effect, especially in shades of green. Evocative of lush flora and more statement-making than brown or beige, tones of green eyeshadow are essentials in your summer makeup bag. You will be surprised to find that eco-friendly makeup companies offer

During those warm nights, indulge in deeper, richer shades of green. Covering the entire eyelid with a silvery gray hue looks sultry with an unexpected burst of emerald or seaweed green swept from the outer corner of the eye into the crease. For more drama, apply the green shadow below the lash line.

Pressing a light powder or shadow beneath your brow bone acts as a subtle highlight and gives the illusion of a higher arch. Finish off with mascara.

Try Orglamix’s mineral eye shadow in Vert or Absinthe on your lids and highlight with a touch of Aurora or Opal. Completely natural and

100% vegan, these shadows are good news for your face and for the environment. Orglamix products can be found on Etsy.com and are free of parabens, sulfates, petro-chemicals, phthalates and the unnecessary synthetic fragrances and dyes found in most cosmetics. These mineral eyeshadows come in an outstanding variety of colors and stay put all day long. For mascara, check out Josie Maran’s environmentally friendly line of cosmetics, available at Sephora and josiemarancosmetics.com.

Their products are ethically manufactured and contain beneficial, organic ingredients. Josie Maran mascara is clump-free and it gives your lashes special treatment with jojoba oil, argan oil and beeswax for strengthening and conditioning. Josie Maran eye liner is also packed with conditioning organic oils, is paraben-free and encased in wood from sustainable forests.

Whether you spend your summer site-seeing, working or lounging by the pool, this season’s green accents will add spontaneity to any outfit while doing the environment and your skin a favor. What’s not to love?

common circle education

Common Circle Education is a school that offers classes in permaculture, yoga and green living. The practice of yoga is fairly new to their repertoire, but they boast a beautiful upstairs studio and yoga classes tailored to the needs of their students. Classes are small, so this is the perfect studio for those who tend to get distracted or uncomfortable in a crowded classroom. A lot of one-on-one attention is given to every student and all injuries and preexisting conditions are taken note of. This studio’s location is perfect for Berkeley students. It is no more than a few blocks from camps, but is tucked away as if one has left the city altogether. Donations are accepted through a computer system at the door and credit and debit payments are accepted.

2130 Center St., Berkeley www.commoncircle.com

yoga kula

Yoga Kula is a smaller studio offering traditional classes for a fee, but they have integrated “community classes” into their practice. Donations of $8 to $16 are accepted on a sliding scale depending on a particular individual’s ability to pay for the class. An interesting element of this studio is its partner-work. In general, most yoga classes follow a traditional teacher-student format. About halfway though this class, students partner up and help each other elongate their backs and get into a deeper child’s pose. Because so much of yoga is centered around community ideals, the simple act of assisting classmates to find their best possible stretches helps foster this sense of togetherness. It emulates a spirit of fellowship that likely transcends throughout all aspects of the studio.

1700 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley www.yogakula.com

the sun room

Located in the urban Mission District of San Francisco, the Sun Room is a well-established and impressively staffed yoga studio. Though not as close to the university as some other studios, the experience is well worth the trip. The knowledgeable instructors carefully focus on the form and intent of their students.

They give helpful suggestions to ensure that every pose is executed safely so as to avoid accidental injuries. Besides offering tai chi and AcroYoga, the Sun Room encourages its students to leave all social and economic layers at the door, providing the chance to practice yoga in its purest form--in the nude. Naked Yoga classes are single-gendered and the instructor assures prospective students that once in the classroom, the novelty of the idea will dissipate and the flow of the class will come naturally. If taking BART to this studio, consider getting off at the 24th St/ Mission stop as opposed to 16th St/ Mission, as most online directions suggest.

Both stations are equidistant from the studio, but the walk from 24th St. may be more comfortable for yogis in cute athletic attire.

Writer: Ria Meer Photographer: Nican Robinson Model: Lisa Levin Makeup: Veronica Mendoza, http://www.MUAVeronicaMendoza.com

2390 Mission St., San Francisco www.sunroomsf.com

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LADIES NIGHT Miss Rahni is the sexy creature of the night as her picture dictates. Fierce Queens like Miss Rahni brighten the scene much like her daringly silver jumpsuit.

Photo by Bernadette Samson

At BARE, we understand that fashion is an inclusive art form that accepts new innovations with open arms. True to this understanding, we did a shoot with some of San Francisco’s Drag Queens to exhibit their mastery to deconstruct and analyze the art of feminine beauty in such a way that it is then reconstructed onto a man yet still look sexy and chic. There is a sense of awe at how well Drag Queens have used gender as a performance, it can often be hard to remember there is a man under that fierce Queen strutting her stuff.

Cal’s very own, Honey Mahogany was an R.A. at Foothill for two years and completed her masters here. Honey represents the young starlet queen fusing beauty, youth and glamour.

Photo by Michelle Lowe

Suppositori Spelling is our grunge rocker queen. She embodies the fun wild side to the drag community that isn’t afraid of getting dirty.

Photo by Cameron Lehman

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Head stylist: Alex Glick Production staff: Parris Mckenley, Ria Meer, Julia To Models: Honey Mahogany, Miss Rahni, Suppositori Spelling

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TRENDS

LONG LIVE Untitled Spring/Summer 1999 Idolized for his unorthodox tendencies towards the idiosyncratic, Alexander McQueen surprised his audience by unveiling his gentler, more romantic side in 1999’s spring collection, “Untitled.”

The climax of this show marked an unforgettable runway moment. Model Shalom Harlow appeared for the show’s finale wearing a seemingly plain strapless dress belted at the bust and the waist. The audience was left awestruck as Shalom spun on a wooden platform and was spraypainted black and yellow by two machines.

Highland Rape Fall/Winter 1995 The crowd was in shock as bloodstain-covered models strutted down the runway in Alexander McQueen’s fall 1995 collection. McQueen’s “Highland Rape” did not fail to stir its high-fashion spectators. Critics claimed the collection was suggestive of sexual violation, but McQueen addressed controversies by evoking his primary inspiration, his Scottish ancestry, professing that he intended his work to be a response to what was considered the “rape” of Scotland by the British.

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Scanners Fall/Winter 2003 Tradition meets modernity in McQueen’s fall 2003 collection, “Scanners.” The runway was reminiscent of a large, barren wasteland strewn with ice and rubble--a representation of a journey through the Russian tundra. Two models--one wearing a skin-tight leather suit attached to a billowing parachute, the other wearing a 20 foot long kimono--fought their way through the wind tunnel bridging above the audience. This look represents only a part of the long journey eastward. The contrast between the desolate, barren wasteland setting and the clothing’s intensity punctuated the fervid statement McQueen sought to convey.

TRENDS

In honor of the late Alexander McQueen (March 17, 1969- February 11, 2010), BARE has dedicated our usual upcoming trends feature to chronicle this iconic British designer’s indelible contributions to the fashion industry.

Each piece marks a pivotal moment in his career, as well as in the world of fashion. McQueen’s knack for glamorizing the bizarre will, without a doubt, continue to be a pervasive influence in the industry long after his passing.

Writer: Jacqueline Ma Illustrator: Harmony Larson

Plato’s Atlantis Spring/Summer 2010 As if his usual runway theatrics weren’t enough for McQueen, the designer opted to embrace computer technology in his spring 2010 collection, “Plato’s Atlantis.” McQueen’s final runway show, with models in digitally printed reptilian outfits, was streamed live online. McQueen’s ankle-breaking “armadillo” heels in cool hues of blues, greens and yellows have inspired many editorials since their debut. “Plato’s Atlantis” was inspired by the idea of the world heading towards an ecological meltdown; as ice caps melt, we may be facing a future underwater.

Final Collection Fall/Winter 2010 Inspired by Byzantine art, Alexander McQueen’s final work was presented in a private and intimate showing in Paris by his team. The 16 designs shown reflected the inspiration he drew from the art of the Dark Ages.

His work, however, channeled his personal point of view: the beauty and the light of the times instead of the darkness. Using digitally printed and textured fabrics, McQueen cut his own patterns and draped his gowns exquisitely, as in this look. It is often said that all good things come to an end, but McQueen’s final collection only further immortalizes him as an artist, ensuring that his legacy will continue to live on.

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Outlaws not only break laws, they break boundaries. These rebels cause havoc in clashing prints, textures, and colors to do what they do best—defy stereotypes.

Whether they’re robbing banks in polka dots, assassinating in neon or striking deals in bow-ties, these bad-asses can still get the job done. Mischief never looked so good.

Head Stylists: Seika Iwao and Nancy Kim Production Staff: James An, Tina Chen, Samantha Giordano, Kylie Harris, Amaris Montes, Lisa Danbi Park Models: James An, Garoon Gibbs-Racho, Ryan Roschke Photographer: Ericka Veliz Photo Editor: Wendy Chu Hair and Make-up Artists: Nicole Chambers and Lauren Haggard from Paul Mitchell the School-East Bay

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Dressed-up Desperados

On James : Bandana , Green t-shirt, Brown boots, Stylist’s own; Suede vest, Yellow woven shirt, Blue pants, Mars Vintage. On Ryan: Purple woven shirt, Gray bow tie, American Apparel; Shorts, Boots, Model’s own; Flintstone cardigan, Weltenbuerger Los Angeles. On Garoon: Denim vest, Printed top, Mars Vintage; Nikes, Buffalo Exchange; Bandana, Polka dot pants, Suede chaps, Stylist’s own.

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Dressed to Kill

Vest, Scarf, Stylist DIY; Sneakers, Buffalo Exchange; White shirt, Beige pants, Stylist’s own.

Ninja Noir

Neon printed t-shirt, Black skirt, Black harness, Fanny pack, Cuffs, Stylist’s own; Sneakers, Buffalo Exchange.

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BACK OF THE CLOSET r

BACK OF THE CLOSET It (1927) Clara Bow, iconic flapper and original “It girl”, stars as a clever department store salesgirl who wins the heart of her wealthy boss. Though poor, she uses her DIY skills to transform a simple work-dress into an eccentric little black flapper frock. Her loose knee-grazing dresses, quirky sweaters and unique cloche hats add a bohemian flair to the prototypical flapper image.

Coco Before Chanel (2009) Coco Chanel embodied androgyny in its original form and introduced suits, short skirts, the LBD and sporty separates to the female fashion vocabulary. Audrey Tautou channels Chanel’s independent and effortless sensibilities and reveals her formative years of self-invention and discovery.

1920s

Funny Face (1957) Jo Stockton (Audrey Hepburn) transforms from an anonymous and modest intellectual into a chic European model. Though photographed in sumptuously full-skirted and cinched New Look gowns in the film, it’s Jo’s beatnik model-off-duty style is most memorable. Her black turtlenecks, skinny ankle pants, loafers and camel coat are classic Parisian staples for the twentyfirst century.

1950s

Revolutionary Road (2008) Set in suburban Connecticut, Revolutionary Road examines the struggles of a couple that becomes trapped in the “delusion” of a socially acceptable 1950s lifestyle. Housewife dresses and gray business suits prevail, but the tailoring and the minimalism prove timeless. Kate Winslet’s character, April Wheeler, displays her hourglass figure in perfectly cut sheath dresses paired simply with pearl earrings and dainty matching bags.

Breathless (À bout de souffle) (1961) Jean Seberg plays a student and an aspiring journalist named Patricia who unknowingly dates a fleeing petty thief while living in Paris. She mixes her tomboyish American style of printed t-shirts and tapered capris with Parisian je ne sais quoi. Chanel’s ubiquitous striped sailor shirt has become a favorite item to pair with printed and flamboyantly collared mod summer dresses.

1960s

Across the Universe (2007) This psychedelic Beatles musical follows the lives of several people who break away from the established social mold and succumb to the tumultuous, alternative culture of the ‘60s. Bell-bottom jeans, fringed vests, hippie tunics and diaphanous skirts replace “sock hop” dresses and cardigans as the characters embrace the new, freethinking world around them.

Love Story (1970) Collegiate fashion is depicted at its best in Love Story, a witty tearjerker with plenty of plaid and lust-worthy outerwear. Jenny Cavallari (Ali MacGraw), a working-class music student, possesses a preppy wardrobe of cozy sweaters, striped cable-knit scarves and the perfectly collared and belted tan coat. She masters the art of layering and mixing, and though the pieces might look similar, her well-chosen accessories keep her style fresh and practical for a typical college student.

The Plaidfather

On James: Woven shirt, Plaid blazer, Mars Vintage; Robot pajamas, Silver Doc Martens, Sparkly tie, Stylist’s own. On Garoon: Yellow woven shirt, Plaid trousers, Mars Vintage; Polka dot suspenders, Fedora, Purple tie, Red Doc Martens, Stylist’s own. On Ryan: Green coat, Rings, Polka dot tie, Stylist’s own; Red checkered shirt, Blazer, Plaid trousers, Mars Vintage; Blue sneakers, Buffalo Exchange.

Stuff we couldn’t fit anywhere else.

1970s

Almost Famous (2000) Focused on a teenage journalist and a traveling rock band, Almost Famous embodies the carefree and effortless spirit of 1970s counter-culture.

While the band is a group of mustached and faded t-shirt-donning guys, their groupies (especially Kate Hudson’s character, Penny Lane), possess an inimitable organic glamour. Penny juxtaposes worn out jeans and converse with earth-child blouses, outrageous furry coats and John Lennon-esque glasses. Her look is cool and fresh, despite the work hard/ play hard rock star lifestyle she idolizes.

Photo Credits: Dreamworks and Columbia Pictures.

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BACK OF THE CLOSET

ng Spring 20 Alexander Wa Photo Credit:

Pre-1800s: Sportswear was developed for its original purpose: men’s sports. Since most women were not expected to wholeheartedly compete, women’s clothing was normally not tailored for participation in rigorous physical activity.

1870s: John Redfern designs women’s clothing for sports such as riding, tennis, yachting and archery.

1920s: During the flapper era, skirts with shorter hems become increasingly acceptable. In addition, women who take jobs in the place of their husbands during World War I require more work-friendly clothing, so women’s trousers are introduced.

1922: At Wimbledon, Suzanne Lenglen causes an uproar by wearing a short skirt and no hat to her tennis match.

Ten years later, Alice Marble starts an even bigger outcry by wearing shorts on the court.

1930s: American women who dominated the workforce during the war fell in love with the easygoing casualness of McCardell’s separates. American sportswear becomes popular because, as opposed to Parisian couture, it is tailored for comfort, durability and practicality.

1950s: The mass production of synthetic fabrics brings about revolutionary changes to sportswear. Nylon running shorts become highly popular as the demand for stretchy, flexible fabrics grows.

1980s: The ‘80s shell suit, much like its forerunner, the track suit, is no longer limited to those living particularly active lifestyles. The matching outfit becomes normal casual attire. The 80s was also the height of the personal fitness craze. Many quintessentially ‘80s items such as brightly colored breathable tights and over-sized sweatshirts have roots in sportswear.

1990s: Prominent designers Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Donna Karan and Tommy Hilfiger incorporate sportswear into their collections.

Today: Sportswear experiences a revival on the runway. During London Fashion Week, designer Ashish reveals a few sequined separates inspired by Nike for his spring 2010 collection.

The catwalk was transformed into a tennis court for Hermes’ spring 2010 collection showcasing red, white and blue pieces with a classic American feel.

High-end labels like Marc Jacobs, Bottega Venetta and Lacoste are no strangers to this trend, and Alexander Wang shows off his athletic chops in his spring 2010 collection with looks such as leather shorts paired with a boxy grey sweater with suede shoulders.

Its rich history is a testimony to sportswear’s established presence in mainstream apparel. As it becomes a more prevalent feature of high fashion, sportswear continues to hit home runs.

-Eunice Gopez

With the popularity of smartphones on the rise, it is becoming easier than ever to keep up with fashion updates with just one touch.

Popular fashion magazines like ELLE have downloadable applications with multimedia to keep readers in the loop. The apps are compatible with Blackberrys, iPhones, and other smartphones.

In addition to providing fashion news, there are also interactive shopping and beauty apps for the onthe-go user. Nail polish company OPI developed an iPhone app that allows the user to try out shades of nail polish on hands of all complexions.

For those of us more interested in just passing time on the BART or during library “study time”, iPhone apps such as Sally’s Salon provide just the right kind of distraction. This game puts you in charge of running your own beauty parlor, complete with virtual employee hiring and hairstyling.

Fashion apps present a wide spectrum of fun and functionality. Prices range from free to approximately $5, depending on the sophistication of the software. It’s - Marissa Rosemblat fashion at the palm of your hand.

diffuse, you lose

Olsenboye for JC Penney After launching their sophisticated luxury line The Row and trend-conscious contemporary label Elizabeth and James, Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen have endeavored to make their signature “hobo-chic” style available to the masses.

But with their JC Penney line Olsenboye, they help women look like 13 year old girls, whether or not they want to be the coolest chick in eighth grade. One non-standout is the plaid button-down shirt. Every girl knows she needs at least five nearly identical plaid shirts to wear to Paramore concerts with Mom and the BFFs! And you can never have enough hoodies or graphic tees. Like, duh.

LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl’s Oh, LC. You were always the most “fashionable” of the Laguna Beach bunch, with your slightly more stylish tube tops, the best flip-flops money could buy and denim from Pac Sun. After high school, the fashionista in you was so eager to “break out of the bubble” that you dropped out of college and rode that reality T.V. star fame all the way to L.A. LC by Lauren Conrad from Kohl’s symbolizes Lauren’s, like, super hard and formerly interesting life with florals, sequins, florals, overpriced jeans, sequins and more florals.

Jean Paul Gaultier for Target Known for his irreverent collections and Madonna’s infamous cone-bra, Jean Paul Gaultier is the “enfant terrible” of haute couture. Maybe that’s why his diffusion line for Target, launched in March 2010, seems to draw inspiration from another “bad boy” of the fashion world — Christian Audigier of Ed Hardy and Von Dutch.

Unfortunately, “terrible” evokes its literal meaning in the collection’s tacky tattooprint mesh leggings. And that seemingly impeccably cut classic Gaultier trench coat?

The tag says “100% cotton,” but if Target’s history of designer lines is any indication, it should probably say “100% cheap, baby.”

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10 - Style.com

Sportswear was an outrageously coveted trend in the 1980s and has enjoyed a recent resurgence in popularity. Easy to mix and match, athletic-inspired clothing adds functionality and comfort to any casual ensemble. But where did this trend start and how has it transformed to suit more modern tastes?

Fashion Mobile

Photo Credits: iPhone Press Images

tracing the trend sportswear

- Christine Fukushima

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PRETTY PENNY 5488 COLLEGE AVENUE OAKLAND, CA 94618 (510) 594-9219

WWW.PRETTYPENNYCLOTHING.COM

Fun Affordable Fashionable

OAKLAND 3359 Lakeshore Ave

ALAMEDA 1350-A Park St

CONCORD SANTA CRUZ BERKELEY 1975 Mt. DIablo St 110 Cooper St 2569 Telegraph Ave