Blush Magazine - Fall 2017

N A T U R A L

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S E L E C T I O N

FALL 2017

G ET M OR E

B L U S H M AG F I T. C O M

Visit for more articles, interviews, online editorials and more 2 / / B LUS H M AGFIT.COM

EDITOR IN CHIEF

PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

DESIGNERS

Ryann Casey

Ayse Albardak

Sunghyun Bang

Emily Altieri

Gabrielle Chang

Rebeka Bonilla

Chris Coughlin

Kasey Buchsbaum

Dee Delancour

Isabella Cacciatore

Michelle Dines

Natalie Carozza

Angelo Germain-Pyram

Sarah Carpenter

Elizabeth Hartley

Ryann Casey

Katie Higgins

Kiana Clevinger

Sydnie Jaime

Katie Costa

Alya Kanehailua

Chloe DeChambeau

Yulia Kovtun

Danielle Smith

Nestor Menjivar

Melissa DeOliveira

Julia O’Donnell

Melissa DeOliveira

Caroline Duffy

Brianna Waller

Laksmi Bisram

Erica Fleming

Gina Gargiulo

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Hannah Keiffert

PUBLIC RELATIONS ASSOCIATES

ART DIRECTOR

Rebeka Bonilla

Brandon Saloy

Katie Costa Caroline Duffy

ART ASSISTANT

Julia Engster

Lena Kourgouzov

Nicole Gomez Gabrielle Gonzalez

PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR

Conor Haffey

Emily Schindler

Fiona Liao

SENIOR EDITORS

Danielle Smith

Kirsten Lutley Claudia Tufanio

Gina Gargiulo Conor Haffey

TREASURER

Keira Hockers

Tyana Teat-Vickers

Melody Keifer Kirsten Lutley

Julian Acevedo

BLUSHMAGFIT.COM WEB DIRECTOR Brinley Knopf

WEB CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jewelle Trotman

Emilly Mederski Grace Peisker

WEB EDITORS

Brandon Saloy

Jonathan Lee

Avni Shah

Nicole Plonski

Alice Sungurov

Claudia Tufanio

Claudia Tufanio

Landuo Yuan

Caroline Wilcox Sofia Wolak

ADVISOR Laura Hatmaker

FALL 2017 Blush is produced by the students of the Fashion Institute of Technology State University of New York, with funds provided by the FIT Student Government Association.

FIT is committed to prohibiting discrimination in its programs, activities, and employment, whether based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender identity, religion, ethnic background, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military service status, genetic information, pregnancy, familial status, citizenship status (except as required to comply with law), or any other criterion prohibited by law. Inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policy may be directed to the Affirmative Action Officer/Title IX Coordinator, 212 217.3360, titleix@fitnyc.edu.

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VEGAN LEATHER Is it really all that it claims to be?

FEATURES

14

ANIMAL TESTING Our staff investigates fashion ethics.

36

20

A newcomer puts a vegan diet to the test.

Blush Magazine’s first boy-glam beauty editorial

SEVEN DAY TRIAL

MODERN MAN

40

CHRISTINA DEGAGLIA A vegan alumni shows her latest work.

48

NATURALISTAS Leave the relaxer at home!

Real FIT women embrace natural hair looks.

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NATURAL SELECTION Thrifted styles, dogs, rooftop views and more!

A LETTER

FROM THE EDITOR AS BLUSH MAGAZINE EVOLVES, WE WANT TO FOCUS ON PROJECTING TRENDS THAT WE SEE HAPPENING IN THE WORLD. OUR LAST ISSUE ON SUSTAINABILITY BROUGHT ON STRONG OPINIONS AND ROSE MUCH AWARENESS OF WHAT IS HAPPENING IN VARIOUS INDUSTRIES. TO MATCH THAT, WE DECIDED TO EXPLORE A DIFFERENT INDUSTRY THIS SEMESTER.

WE LOOK A R OUN D US A N D I N OUR E V E R Y D AY L I V ES. T H E R E ’ S A CL EA R SHI FT

present in the way people are eating and the ingredients in the products we use. My idea around veganism stems from my dear sister who first opened my eyes to not only vegan foods, but veganism in general as a moral compass. She inspired me to research further, being the core inspiration for this issue. Being vegan isn’t for everyone, but that doesn’t mean we all can’t be educated on the benefits, alternatives, and products that are available around us.

From ancient times to now, animals are used in the categories of fashion, beauty, and culture. We’re here to expose the animals in those industries, and perhaps shed a new light on your thoughts with the food you eat, the clothes you wear, and the cosmetics you use.

Our writers and designers took creative standpoints on the problems present within the animal industry. However, there are much more positive aspects to focus on as well. From the emotional benefits of owning a pet (I can’t lie, my dog was also a huge inspiration for this theme) to new and innovative brands stepping up, the animal world will continue to collide into ours.

I want to thank every Blush member and person involved who contributed to this publication, because I surely couldn’t have done it without you. I couldn’t be prouder with where we’re at, and can’t wait to see what the future holds.

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WHY MY DOG IS MY BEST FRIEND B Y G I N A G ARG IULO

DO G S ARE T RULY R EMA R K A BL E A N IM ALS , TH EY W ERE TH E FIRS T AN IM AL S to

immunity to diseases and allergies. Dog owners have also been

reside with humans and have been found in human societies all over

found to have lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, less heart

the world. While they were first domesticated for survival needs,

attacks, and fewer medical problems in general than those without

dog ownership now evolved into a close companionship with their

dogs.

owners. This is primarily due to the growing awareness of the posi-

Besides in solely physical ways, dogs affect us emotionally. You’re

tive effects this relationship can have on human health and psycho-

likely to feel less depressed with a dog and have more positive

logical well-being.

outlooks on life. Research has shown that it only takes about 15–30

First, let’s start physical. For someone who doesn’t exercise

minutes with your dog to feel more relaxed and calm. Playing with

daily, a dog can motivate you to go on more walks. Not only does

your dog raises your brain’s levels of dopamine and serotonin, which

this help you to get exercise and stay healthy, but it might help your

are neurotransmitters that are associated with pleasure and tran-

social life since people are more likely to stop and talk to you when

quility. Thus, dogs can improve your mood greatly, in just a short

you’re walking a dog. When you’re at home, dogs can be an effective

amount of time. Dogs make us better people in general by teaching

home security system. Studies show that barking dogs discourage

us valuable skills in life such as commitment, selflessness, care,

burglars, while it’s very helpful having someone with a keen sense

responsibility, and patience.

of hearing to detect anyone prowling around. Another important

Regardless of when or where dog ownership started, human’s

aspect is feeling less stressed. Research reveals that petting

long attachment to these animals is still going strong. Today, Amer-

your dog, playing with your dog, and simply watching your dog can

icans own about 78 million dogs, as the benefits they bring keep on

reduce stress hormones as well as lower your heart rate. In addition,

growing as well. Next time you see your pet, make sure you thank

dogs expose their owners to germs, which can help build a human’s

them for bringing you these positive assets in your life!

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOPHIA PAVLATOS

PETS OF BLUSH

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IS VEGAN LEATHER REALLY WHAT IT SEEMS?

BY K E I R A HO CK E R S

VEG AN LEAT H ER I S OF TEN A D VE RTIS ED AS AN AN IM AL— AN D EARTH -

Vegan leather is designed to look as similar as possible to tradi-

friendly option for those looking to sport the style of leather without

tional leather. It is known to crack at the surface and show wear

sporting the cruelty. But what is vegan leather, and is it any

less favorably. It is often thinner and has greater flexibility than

less cruel? Here’s your side-by-side guide to the pros and cons of

animal leather.

vegan leather.

WHAT IS IT MADE OF?

WHO IS AT RISK TO MISTREATMENT? Of course, using the skins of animals points to the obvious

Traditional leather is made from the hides of animals. The type of

mistreatment of said animals. Still, there are more living beings

animal can range from cow to crocodile. Vegan leather is a manu-

involved. The workers responsible for the tanning process of

factured leather look-alike. It is most often made of polyurethane.

animal-based leather are put at risk, as the tanning process uses

In rare circumstances, other materials such as cork, treated cotton,

harsh chemicals that are known to be cancer-causing.

or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) may be used.

Vegan leather actually poses a similar risk to those manufac-

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

turing it. The chemicals used to manufacture vegan leather are also harsh and known to cause cancer to those who work with it

Natural leather ages much better, often lasting 10-20 years longer

directly. While vegan leather may not be made from animals, it

than vegan alternatives. Natural leather is also more breathable.

still poses risk to them. It is easy to forget that animals and wildlife are affected by synthetic waste. Vegan leather is

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“IF EATING A COW SEEMS ENVIRONMENTALLY IRRESPONSIBLE, WEARING ONE MOST CERTAINLY DOES. THIS BEING SAID, SOME SEE NATURAL LEATHER AS A MORE SUSTAINABLE OPTION THAN ITS VEGAN COUNTERPART.”

typically plastic-based, meaning it does not easily break down.

Vegan leather products have the potential to fill landfills and pose risk to wildlife just as other synthetic products.

HOW SUSTAINABLE IS IT? Animal leather utilizes the skins of animals, making the product a bit shaky on the sustainability scale to begin with. It’s the red meat principle here. If eating a cow seems environmentally irresponsible, wearing one most certainly does. This being said, some see natural leather as a more sustainable option than its vegan counterpart, as natural leather is far more durable. Because animal leather ages well and lasts long, it is replaced less often by consumers. Of course, this also makes it more expensive. So, the genuine leather handbag you have may last you a decade, but it may very well be empty for that long, as well.

Vegan leather does not withstand wear-and-tear nearly as well as the real stuff. This means it is generally being manufactured quickly and often. This generates a lot of waste not only in production but also in disposal of vegan leather goods. As vegan leather

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIANA MAZZA STYLING BY ANA SCHEIDLINGER HAIR/MAKEUP BY LIANA PRINZEVALLI MODELED BY ANNIKA PETERSON

goods reach the end of their product lives, they are tossed aside for replacement, and even if you’re done with those vegan leather booties, the earth sure isn’t.

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Cleansing Camomile Face Wash 1 cup Camomile Tea

2 Tbsp Raw Honey

½ cup Castile Soap

5 Drops Tea Tree Oil

1. Soak your camomile tea in hot water for 10 minutes 2. Drain the tea so that only the liquid is left 3. Add your tea, castile soap, honey, and tea tree oil into a mixing bowl 4. Mix all ingredients finely 5. Add the mixture into a container of your choice 6. Use the cleanser twice a day for a radiant glow.

Illuminating Coconut Moisturizer

Soothing Lavender Facial Toner

4 Tbsp All Natural Shea Butter

1 cup Green Tea 2/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar

5—10 Drops Lavender Essential Oil

2 Tbsp Coconut oil

2 Tbsp Rosehip oil 1 Tbsp Aloe Vera Gel 1 Tbsp Vitamin E oil

1. Add all ingredients together into a small mixing bowl, mix until all oils have melted into the shea butter 2. Transfer moisturizer into a small glass container

1. Seep green tea in hot water for 10 minutes

3. Use moisturizer morning and night after toner for

2. Toss the tea bags and let the green tea cool for 15 minutes

supple skin

3. Add the 2/4 cup apple cider vinegar and lavender oil

4. (Optional) Keep moisturizer in the fridge for a cooling sensation upon application

into the green tea 4. Mix all the ingredients together and transfer mix into a spray bottle 5. Use toner after you wash your face every night.

Detoxifying Charcoal Face Mask

6. Always shake mixture before use

diy natural skin care B Y AYSE AL B ARDA K

½ Avocado

1 Tbsp Turmeric

1 Tbsp Activated Charcoal

3 Drops Tea Tree Oil 1 Tbsp Raw Honey

1. Mash Avocado into a thick paste texture 2. Add activated charcoal, turmeric and tea tree oil to the avocado mash and mix 3. Add raw honey with the other ingredients and mix together until it is a dark colored paste 4. Apply the mask and leave it on for 20 -25 minutes 5. Wash the mask off with a warm washcloth to reveal brighter looking skin.

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ILLUSTRATIONS BY TAYLOR BENDER

WHO SAID HAIR DYE WASN’T VEGAN?

ILLUSTRATION BY ANN CHRISTENSEN

BY CL AU D I A TU FANI O

MANIC PANIC

ARCTIC FOX

The search for semi-permanent hair color formulated

Meet Arctic Fox, a hair color that simultaneously

without ammonia or peroxide ends here: Manic Panic’s

conditions while leaving stunning, vibrant color. The

High Voltage Classic Cream Formula Hair Color comes

semi-permanent hair colors are non-alkaline, and

in 44 shocking shades, from deep emerald green

made from strictly vegan ingredients without animal

“Enchanted Forest” to “Cotton Candy Pink”, and every-

by-products, harmful chemicals, peroxide, ammonia,

thing in between. For those not into bright colors or

ethyl alcohol, PPD, or damaging chemicals. Arctic Fox

shocking hues, Manic carries tame brunette and blonde

is gentle enough for frequent use, whether it’s covering

shades as well.

those fast-growing gray’s, or changing your hair color to match your mood.

GREEN HARE MUD Green Hare Mud (naturally) fuels the wild green thumb

HENNA COLOR LAB

we all have inside of us. The pure plant-based natural

Henna Color Lab natural hair color delivers salon-level

hair color brand uses ingredients like ground plant

results, with hair dye created to bond with your hair

lead, black walnut shells, flower petals, and red zinger

rather than chemically coating it. Using Ayurvedic

tea to offer seven rich and vivid shades. Choose from

herbs to condition the hair and scalp, Henna Color Lab

chocolatey brunette to ash blonde. The ingredients

not only colors your hair, but conditions, nourishes

in each packet of Green Hare Mud are hand-picked in

the scalp, detoxifies follicles, and smooths split ends

small batches to ensure 100% natural, cruelty free, and

simultaneously. The best part is that the products are

chemical free hair color.

free from ammonia, metallic salts, PPD, and other harsh chemicals and toxins.

LUSH Most commonly known for whimsical bath bombs and colorful bubble bars, skincare giant Lush also carries another treasure: Vegan henna hair dye. The colors are blended with essential oils and cocoa butter, leaving your hair feeling smooth, silky, and looking fabulous.

Lush’s vegan henna hair dye comes in unique chocolate-bar shaped blocks, and must be added to boiling water to achieve a melted-chocolate-like consistency before it can be applied to hair.

ILLUSTRATION BY ANN CHRISTENSEN

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B I E Y C H

BY AL I CE S U NG U R O V

N

A

V E G E A M

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY SCHINDLER

WHEN MOS T PEOPLE M EET M E, TH EY ARE IN S TAN TLY M ET

with an earth loving “save the animals” kind of girl. I talk about my favorite vegan restaurants more than what happened on Game of Thrones, or Grey’s Anatomy. So, it may come as a surprise to most people that I grew up in the most non-vegan household. Both my parents are Russian so meat and potatoes were my main food groups. Interestingly, when I talk to my now vegan mom and some of our old family friends, they tell me that for the first three years of my life I didn’t eat much meat.

Funny enough, my dad says the opposite; I know he wishes I would go back to the “old days,” where we’d have special ribs every Wednesday, lamb on Thursday, basically red meat all the time.

I grew up in a small town where being “vegan” wasn’t a thing. When I started high school, my mom and I moved to Manhattan, where it seemed there was a vegan restaurant on every block. Before transitioning to veganism, I started off by trying different vegan foods, and to my surprise, everything tasted delicious!

After returning back to New York, I decided to test

My mouth watered for crispy vegan apple pie from By

myself and see how long I could last on the vegetarian

Chloe’s and the thought of vegan lasagne from Blos-

diet. Not too long after, I noticed a massive change in

som’s made my skeptical heart sing.

my body. Naturally, after some time, I started cutting out

Even with some of the delicious vegan foods I was

cheese from my diet, and so many things about myself

trying, the idea of dropping steak was not an option for

were changing: my skin cleared up and started glowing,

me. I respected those who were vegan but felt that it

my hair became softer and healthier, and my ability to

wasn’t for me. Oh, how wrong I was.

focus was 10x more than what it was when I became

At the wonderful age of 15, I took a trip to India for a

vegetarian. Also, knowing I was apart of an industry

leadership program. While experiencing a major culture

that supported the well-being of all living creatures had

shock, I also was on a strictly vegetarian diet. I couldn’t

established a new sense of self in me.

eat any meat, fish, chicken, or eggs. It didn’t seem like

So many of my family and friends were concerned I

that much of a burden since my time there was only

wouldn’t have anything to eat, but in reality living in a city

for a month, so soldiering through was the only option.

like New York, I have more than enough options. Also,

Before then, I never cognized I was harming animals or

being a newborn vegan I am prompted to explore my abil-

being unhealthy. I was raised with the idea that protein

ities in the kitchen with what I can make for myself. Being

from meat is the healthiest option, and that animals are

vegan isn’t a lack of something, but rather a gain of the

meant to die for our survival.

extraordinary.

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THE CONCERN OF ANIMAL TESTING IN THE COSMETICS INDUSTRY B Y E M I LY ALT IERI

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELIANEL CLINTON MAKEUP BY CELESTE ST. CLAIR STYLED BY D'MAHDNES MODELED BY MARIA TACO

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A NI MA L TES TI NG H AS B EEN A DEB ATED C O N C EP T FO R Y E A R S A N D Y E A R S.

Many have strong minded opinions on the subject while others are passive to the topic at hand. An abundance of companies and brands have switched to more humane methods of testing, while others still use the unethical practices. Organizations such as Peta and Leaping Bunny have garnished the media with reports and dissent against animal testing, encouraging a strong public opinion in opposition to the disdained practice. In today’s

“NUMEROUS BRANDS

HAVE CHOSEN TO OPT FOR MORE HUMANE APPROACHES ”

advanced society, the ancient and unfair practice of animal testing is no longer necessary.

The primary reason companies still choose to test their cosmetics on animals can be summed up with one word: China. By law, it is required for cosmetics to be tested on animals before being

approaches and pulled out of the Chinese market in doing so. More

sold in their market. Seeing that the country has the world’s largest

humane methods to animal testing are cheaper and more effective

consumer market, it would be a dramatic loss of business to refuse

than the ancient practice. Companies utilize alternatives such

selling there. However, an abundance of new companies refuse to

as cell cultures, human tissues, computer models, and volunteer

sell in the market because of the unethical practice. One example

studies. The alternative methods show the lack of necessity for the

is Snow Fox Skincare, an organic and vegan line created by Phoebe

immoral practice.

Song. The brand was originally intended to be sold worldwide

In the near future, hopefully humans will become more sympa-

including in China. Upon learning that animal testing was legally

thetic with their animal counterparts. Many brands in the cosmetic

required, Song decided to pull her products from the Chinese

industry have adopted ethical approaches, but there is still so

market. Choosing to be humane over the profitable market was a

much work to be done. The world’s largest cosmetic market is

hard but respectable decision for the growing brand.

upholding the ancient practice by force of law. With new technol-

While many cosmetic giants such as L’Oreal and Revlon continue

ogies and advancements, the alternatives to animal testing are

their animal testing approach, others are choosing to take a differ-

growing vastly. Change is around the corner for the furry friends

ent route. Numerous brands have chosen to opt for more humane

that have become victims of the beauty industry.

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VEGAN BEAUTY: BERRY HUES

BY N ATA LIE C A ROZZA PHOTOGRAPHY BY SABINE SMITH MAKEUP BY JAZMIN THOMAS MODELED BY AURORA HINZ AND MEGANNE NATALE

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CREATING A MAKEUP LOOK THAT DOESN’T EXPLOIT INNOCENT ANIMALS DOESN’T HAVE TO BE HARD! THIS IS A LOOK CREATED WITH ALL VEGAN MAKEUP. THESE BRANDS ALSO SUPPORT THE CRUELTY FREE MOVEMENT AND COME TOGETHER TO CREATE A FLAWLESS, FALL LOOK.

primer

brows

M I L K M AKEUP B L U R ST I C K $ 3 6

GLO SSI E R BOY B R OW $ 1 6

This is a oil-and-silicone-free primer that will reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores.

This product shapes, fills, and sets your brows, making them look fuller for that “boyish” brow effect.

concealer

eye shadow

RM S BE AUTY UN C OVE R- UP CON CE AL ER $3 6 .

A NASTASI A BE VE R LY HI L LS MO DE R N R E NA I SSA NC E E YE SH A DOW PA L E TTE $42

This concealer is lightweight and hydrating, and will leave your skin looking radiant.

mascara TOO FACED BE T T E R T H A N SE X M AS CAR A $ 23

A 14-shade shadow palette with berry and neutral tones to create a romantic look.

blush TA R T E A M A Z O NI A N C L AY 1 2 - HO U R B L U SH $ 2 9

This mascara has an intense black hue with an hourglass-shaped brush that separates and lifts lashes, leaving them looking long and voluminous.

This is a long wearing blush infused with clay from the Amazonian River. With a wide variety of shades there is sure to be a blush for every girl looking for a crueltyfree product

bronzer

powder

TOO FACED CH O C O L AT E SO L E I L M ATTE B RON ZE R $ 3 0

K AT VO N D LO C K- I T B LOT T I NG P OWDE R $ 2 9

This is a matte bronzer made with cocoa. It smells like chocolate, and leaves you looking tan and never orange.

In order to set your makeup and makeup this 100% vegan powder will do the trick! It will also work for midday touch-ups to blot away the excess oils.

foundation

lips

G LOS S I ER P ER F E CT I NG SK I N T I NT $ 2 6

C O LO U R P O P U LT R A M AT T E L I P $ 6

This lightweight tint leaves a dewy wash of color over your skin without covering your super cute freckles.

This super-affordable vegan matte “lippie” comes in a wide variety of shades to add the perfect pop to any makeup look.

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SPIRITHOODS

BY S A RAH CARPENT ER

W HAT DO KESHA , GETTI NG BE AT UP AT PARTIES , AN D

saving the animals have in common? Good question. Interestingly enough, the answer is fur, and that doesn’t mean the kind coming out of the agricultural industry in the United States; which is not under federal regulation. This is the fur that not only looks good, but truly feels good as well, since part of the proceeds are going towards helping innocent animals. This is Spirithoods.

Before Ashley Haber, Alex Mendeluk, Chase Hamilton, and Marley Marotta created their brand, they were just four friends trying to have a good time and make it somewhere on the golden coast.

Mendeluk started it all when he crafted the very first Spirit Hood as

upon putting it on he asked if she had “killed an Ewok.”

That leads to the most important point about the Spirithood:

a Christmas gift for Hamilton. It was complete with wolf ears and

absolutely no living things, of the Endor-dwelling variety or other-

connecting mittens for the full effect. Seeing such an eccentric

wise, are harmed in the production process. Therefore, in other

accessory is definitely not an everyday occurrence, especially not

words, it’s all bark and no bite!

at a party in Los Angeles - the venue at which the initial piece had its debut.

At first, derogatory terms and invitations to brawl were hurled

“IT’S ALL BARK AND NO BITE!” Animals are not left out of the equation entirely, however; endan-

at Hamilton for donning his bold fashion statement, but the trend

gered species from tigers to polar bears are represented by the

soon caught on. After a whirlwind of trade shows and a consequen-

brand, which donates ten percent of its profits to aid these helpless

tial influx of orders, the Spirithood went from a comical gift to a

creatures. Now, despite the foursome’s claim that they “weren’t

booming business.

interested in getting into anything high fashion,” Spirithoods has

Celebrities, of course, are always effective instruments for intro-

expanded its range to include fur coats, which are equal parts chic

ducing new products to the masses, and Spirithoods definitely

and cozy. Leggings and throws also help to round out the product

benefitted from such publicity. When a photo of Kesha wearing one

selection.

came across social media platforms everywhere, the once polar-

The brand’s Instagram account is @spirithoods, and it can be

izing accessories were now undeniably cool. Vanessa Hudgens,

followed for the lowdown on all the latest threads and furs.

Bruno Mars, and Lindsay Lohan, among others, also followed suit.

Moreover, who wouldn’t want to see some pretty gnarly aesthetics

On the Conan O’Brien show, Hudgens brought the host a Hood, and

involving a plethora of adorable canines?

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n o i t i d E d e

VEGAN TATTOOS

Ink

Stopping Animal Cruelty:

BY CHLO E D ECHAMBE AU & CAR O L I NE D U F F Y

VEGA NI S M I S CL E ARLY O N TH E RIS E. FRO M TREN DY V EG A N E AT E R I ES TO V EGA N M A K E UP

and clothing brands, we can all see how accessible a vegan lifestyle is. However, to be fully immersed into the vegan community, it is important to reflect on other activities and aspects of life that may not be considered vegan. As it turns out, some of these things may not be as attainable as the abundance of vegan restaurants and the ongoing list of cruelty free makeup brands. For example, if you are vegan and you have pondered over the thought of getting a tattoo, perhaps, you may want to do your research before getting inked. To many people’s surprise, getting a tattoo is actually not considered vegan in many (but not all) instances. Don’t worry, though- Blush has the scoop on how to make your tattoo animal friendly.

WHERE TO GET A VEGAN TATTOO IN NYC WHITE RABBIT TATTOO 121 Essex St, New York, NY 10002

GRISTLE TATTOO 26 Bushwick Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211

DAREDEVIL TATTOO 141 Division St, New York, NY 10002

The takeaway? Just ask questions and do your research. There are many options available for those out there that are wanting to get inked. It is just a matter of finding the right option for you. That extra bit of research could save the lives of many of our four legged friends.

WHAT MAKES A TATTOO NON-VEGAN? The inks that many popular parlors carry and use on their clients contain

CARING FOR YOUR TATTOO After you get a vegan tattoo, you more

products such as bone char, which is derived from various animal bones, or

than likely will want to use vegan products

glycerin, which is a clear liquid that comes from animal fat. Another non-vegan

to care for it as it heals. A general concern

aspect of some tattoos include the aftercare products. Often times, the after-

for those with tattoos is keeping their black

care balms or lotions that parlors provide for their customers contain either

pigment as black as possible, as black is

lanolin or beeswax.

usually the first color to fade or change

CHOOSING THE RIGHT VEGAN INK FOR YOUR TATTOO Ok, so you’ve decided to get a vegan tattoo, but the artist you’ve had in mind does not tattoo with vegan products in their everyday practice. That’s okay, if you provide vegan alternatives to products, many artists will accommodate your wishes and work with you on producing the tattoo of your dreams! Some inks

to a bluish color over time. With consistent sunscreen and moisturizer use and proper aftercare, a vegan tattoo can last just as long and stay just as vibrant as a regular tattoo.

that are popular amongst vegan tattoo artists are Kuro Sumi Outlining Tattoo Ink, Skin Candy Tattoo Ink, Crazyhorse High Quality Lining Ink, and Southeast Tattoo Supply Ink, all available on Amazon for your convenience!

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DOSE OF COLORS MATTE LIQUID LIPSTICK IN PURPLE RAIN “TAKE ME BACK TO BRAZIL” EYESHADOW PALETTE 2BH 0 //COSMETICS BLUSH M AGF I T. COM

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEXIE LOU PRODUCED AND ASSISTED BY HANNAH KEIFFERT MAKEUP BY ALLISON YANG AND JAZMIN THOMAS MODELED BY EVAN TOMCHIN (MSA) AND CHAD BAILEY INTRODUCTION BY RYANN CASEY

ONE ARE THE DAYS OF MAKEUP MONOTONY. No longer is a boy’s relationship with beauty hidden and secretive. He isn’t sneaking concealer from mom’s makeup bag to cover a zit for picture day. He is submerged in makeup culture, finding the same confidence in color that so many generations of women have before him.

Makeup has transposed daily routine into complex culture. YouTube tutorials, Instagram accounts, and Reddit threads are dedicated to makeup culture—a community that includes men.

Men wearing makeup in the past has been a subculture, i.e. Marilyn Manson’s nail polish, Kurt Cobain’s hair color, and David Bowie’s blush. Unlike these icons of generations past, boys in beauty have infiltrated mass culture. Instead of pushing boundaries, they’re living outside of them.

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(OPPOSITE) COLOURPOP ULTRA MATTE LIP IN “WEDNESDAY” TARTE TARTEIST CREAMY MATTE LIP PAINT IN “BIRTHDAY SUIT”

KAT VON D TATTOO LINER IN “TROOPER BLACK”

Men in makeup aren’t a fad: They’re helping shape the multibillion-dollar beauty industry. Maybelline collaborated with Manny MUA to stay relevant. CoverGirl’s first-ever CoverBoy, James Charles, was a move to reinvent the brand. Cooler brands like Milk have gender-inclusive messaging woven into their brand identity, while brands like Anastasia Beverly Hills feature males in their campaigns to include the demographic.

These efforts of cosmetic companies are meant to match millennial and Generation Z’s disinterest in gender identification.

Gender stigmas are dissipating, and from this acceptance of men in beauty there is hope for a more inclusive future with further rejection of the gender binary. Regardless of gender, today’s beauty community is harnessing the subversive power of makeup.

Beauty is power and confidence, and that freedom is genderless.

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URBAN DECAY MOONDUST EYESHADOW PALETTE

STILA MAGNIFICENT METALS GLITTER & GLOW LIQUID EYESHADOW IN “SEA SIREN” 24 // BLUSH M AGF I T. COM

NICKA K RADIANT LIQUID EYESHADOW IN “OCHROID TITAN” FENTY BEAUTY KILLAWATT FREESTYLE HIGHLIGHTER IN “TROPHY WIFE”

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BH COSMETICS BLUSHED NEUTRALS EYESHADOW & BLUSH PALETTE

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NOT ON MY WATCH

BY E R I CA F L E MI NG

THE FIGHT FOR CRITICALLY ENDANGERED ANIMALS AND WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP AM U R LEO PARD . VA Q UI TA . BL A CK RH IN O C ERO S .

beings who are not just for our consump-

donations go to field projects, so you can be

What do these three animals have in

tion. Vegans and animal rights activists

sure your money will make a difference. Go

common? They are all species that have

work to stop the exploitation of animals for

to: altaconservation.org

gone completely extinct within the last 40

use by humans. Below are a few species

The Vaquita, a marine mammal only

years or so—and they are far from alone.

that are currently endangered, and some

discovered in 1958, is another animal on

Scientists say that between 0.01 and 0.1

ways you can help:

the verge of extinction. It is considered the

percent of all species go extinct each year.

The Amur Leopard, found only in the

most endangered marine animal, with its

Considering the 2 million different species

temperate forests of northern Russia, is

existing population at just 30 individuals.

of plants and animals on the planet, that

one species that is critically endangered.

Vaquitas are small gray porpoises identified

equates to anywhere from 200 to 2,000

Their numbers have become so low due to

by black rings around their eyes. They have

species anually. The animals listed above all

poaching for their fur and the animals they

been pushed to the brink of extinction due

disappeared mainly due to human impact

prey on. Their numbers are estimated at

to illegal fishing practices. You can help

caused by poaching, habitat loss, and agri-

just 70 left in the wild. Find out more about

save the remaining Vaquitas by donating to

cultural development.

this beautiful animal and donate to the

the National Marine Mammal Foundation.

Amur Leopard and Tiger Alliance (ALTA) at

Donations are used to construct sanctuary

the link below. 100 percent of their

sea pens for these endangered animals. You

Many people go vegan because they recognize animals as valuable, sentient

can also sign a petition for the president of Mexico to commit to Vaquita conservation.

Go to: nmmf.org and change.org Another critically-endangered animal is the Black Rhino, whose numbers in the wild remain at about 5,000. Rhinos exist in Eastern Africa, and first became endangered in the early 20th century by European settlers for sport or food. Today they are poached mostly for their ivory horns. Learn more about this cause at the website below.

You can also donate to the Save the Rhino organization, which works to preserve all five species of rhinos.

Go to: savetherhino.org

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ILLUSTRATION BY BELLA RAYKHMAN

HOW THE FASHION INDUSTRY EXPLOITS ANIMALS

BY AV NI S HAH

I N TH E S C O P E O F V EG AN IS M , FAS H IO N , AN D B Y B R OA D E R CON T E XT,

clothing, is often forgotten as a facet of activism. The fashion industry kills 31 million animals every year to meet the demand for furs, leather, and silks. While this exploitation has been prevalent for years, even advances in technology have not made the processes to acquire these goods any less humane or unethical.

This all begs the question: If we know the slaughter of animals for fashion is inhumane, how does the exploitation continue?

One answer lies in the very methods used to acquire animal

LEATHER To produce leather, animals are skinned and excess flesh is stripped from the hide.

Many times the animals are still alive when they’re skinned in order cause the least damage to the skin. The hide/skins are then spread and taken to tanning facilities to be softened and varnished to their desired finish.

products. Nearly all facets of the collection process values discretion at all costs. In fact, most consumers in today’s market can not tell apart real fur from its synthetic counterpart. The Humane Society UK ran tests on fur samples labeled ‘wool blend’ and ‘viscose,’ and showed that the fur was most likely a fox and rabbit blend. As awareness of the cruelty in the industry rose after the seventies, the explicit demand for fur and other animal products dropped considerably, taking the price down along with it. Many clothing outlets and producers are turning a blind eye to the suppliers and sourcing of their own products and materials.

As recently as this year, it was found that Gucci, Michael Kors,

FUR Fur extraction facilities are often considered to have conditions similar to meat production facilities. In fact, fur farms hold hundreds of animals, such as minks, from birth till death with limited mobility in tight cages. To prevent damage to the fur and reduce cost, animals are either still conscious, or are killed by neck-breaking and electrocution.

and other large designer brands have used ‘monster foxes’ or genetically-modified foxes, which are held in cruel conditions for their fur products. As a result, many people, even those who would never consciously buy products affiliated with animal cruelty, are keeping the ugly underbelly of the fashion industry alive.

So what are some of the ways animals are exploited?

SILK The process used to produce silk involves retrieving the cocoon of the silkworm. This is done by steaming or gassing the silkworm pupae’s alive in their cocoons. Around 3,000 silkworms die to make one pound of silk.

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B Y DANI SM IT H we can now digitally track each point in the

item. Being able to verify an item’s origin by

supply-chain in an easily accessible way; by

tracing it will allow consumers to have more

simply scanning the item we want.

confidence in what they buy. Therefore,

Getting to know the story behind garments gives the consumer the power of determining if a product meets values I M A GIN E A FU TUR E WHER E YOU C O U LD S C AN A

garment with your phone to learn everything about the item. From where the raw materials originated, to the working conditions an item was created in, consumers desire more transparency from the fashion industry supply-chain -- and blockchain technology could bring the revolution.

Blockchain technology is a distributed database which maintains a growing list of records, called blocks. Each digital block is encrypted and contains a set of data with a timestamp and a link to the previous block.

Once data is recorded in a block, it can’t be altered. As these encrypted blocks are connected, they provide a secure means of sharing information throughout an entire network in a verifiable and traceable manner. For the fashion world, this means

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confirming if a garment is entirely vegan will become a seamless process.

Martine Jarlgaard, who is a London-based

that are important to the customer. Far too

designer, claims that the single compo-

often, items are tagged with “organic” and

nent that will get us there is technology.

“made ethically” without any evidence to

She states, “When I think about our world

support the claim. When an item is made

and outsourcing now, we’ve gained a great

on the blockchain, a microchip or a QR

distance to how things are made. We need

code accompanies the item as a means to

to re-educate ourselves. Technology will be

connect the physical to the digital. So, what

what helps to reconnect us to the people

are the benefits behind blockchain technol-

and the places involved, and that informa-

ogy? Blockchain technology can improve

tion will increase consumer expectations,

trust and brand accountability, which will

which will put more pressure on the big

ultimately lead to brand loyalty. As consum-

companies.”

ers, we will be able to know all the informa-

From the farm that produced the leather,

tion about the ingredients, composition,

through the supply chain, to the rack you

chemicals used, factories, working condi-

find yourself standing in front of; that’s the

tions, where the item was made, who made

power of blockchain technology. There is

it, how much they were paid, where the

a beautiful story to be told about each and

cotton was grown, which farm the leather

every garment. Let’s track the journey of

came from, where the wool came from,

raw materials through the supply chain to

and so on. Blockchain technology will bring

the finished product.

complete transparency to every physical

Who’s on board?

ILLUSTRATION BY NIRELLI SHANNON

A TASTE OF YOUR

FOOD WASTE

BY S O F I A WO L AK

One of the reasons America is one of the

the students or is leftover, is all composted.

largest culprits of food waste is that food in

The only thing that is truly wasted are the

this country is much cheaper to buy then in

cans which must be thrown away, as the

other places, so many people don’t have a

takeout containers are compostable also.

problem letting food go bad or not eating it

At FIT the best thing you can do to prevent

A S THE AWA R ENES S ARO U N D REC Y C LIN G ,

because they know they will be able to buy

food waste is to not take any more food than

composting, and green energy grows, food

the same thing the next day. Some Ameri-

you think you can eat. Although the amount

waste is also something that Americans

cans buy their food for aesthetic purposes

of food that is provided with the meal

need to be educated about. America is

only, and wouldn’t ever think about buying

exchange may seem tempting to get, you

one of the leading countries in food waste

a bruised peach. Especially with the world

may not be able to eat it all. Don’t get food

with over 40% of the food being wasted

we live in now many “foodies” on Instagram

that you are not going to eat just because it

or thrown away according to the NRDC

and other social media sites are posting

is available to you. It is also best if you think

(Natural Resources Defense Council), with

pictures of their meals. They would not

that you are not going to eat your entire

the biggest blame landing on consumer

think to post food that is not in perfect

meal, to eat in the dining hall so that there is

businesses, restaurants, grocery stores,

condition.

some place where you are able to compost

and individual households. The businesses

Other programs around the country are

it. Food waste is a rising issue in our society

that produce the food products also play a

also trying to help create awareness and

so every little bit an individual can do to help

large role in waste as many of the products

fix this problem. The NRDC is working with

does make a difference in the big picture.

that are created in factories or grown on

cities around the country, one of which is

farms do not even see the dinner table or

New York, and is taking steps to reduce the

the inside of a supermarket.

amount of food wasted, the UN is working

Many products get thrown away or

with the EPA and USDA to cut the amount

discarded because they do not fit the

of food waste in half by the year 2030, and

specific color or look that most companies

feeding America rescues food and gives it

want their products to have. For example,

back to people who are facing hunger. Big

food such as peanut butter may not be

companies are also getting involved in the

creamy or chunky enough to make it into

fight to reduce food waste. Every night,

the jar, and a peach may not be the right

trucks pick up the unsold food from Star-

size or color to display in store. Although all

bucks and redirect it to all the local food

of these products are perfectly edible and

banks.

could be given to families in need, they are

What can you do to help? The Director of

just thrown away because they will not sell

Dining Services at FIT stated that all of the

in the consumer market.

food in the dining hall that is not eaten by

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA CERVINI

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BIOTECH CLOTHING: Wearable Vegan Clothing

I M A GIN E WALKI NG D OWN THE S TREETS O F N EW Y O RK C ITY and

seeing people wearing sweaters made out of algae. This is coming at a time in which many fast fashion companies, such as Zara, H&M, and Forever21, are producing too much waste that the planet cannot keep up with.

Currently, biotech is still developing, but in the future expect to see more clothing being made in stores from renewable resources. So, the question you’ve all been waiting for: Will biotech be a major part of vegan fashion in the future?

Many people do not know what biotech is, because it is a new, developing technology. As defined by bio.org, biotech is “technology based on biology— biotechnology harnesses cellular and biomolecular processes to develop technologies and products that help improve our lives and the health of our planet.” The main innovation in creating textiles with biotechnology

BY C ON O R HAF F E Y

development of this protein, McCartney has the ambition to develop many more forms of sustainable materials within the fashion industry. Moreover, with the production of new decomposable textiles, the question remains: will the fashion cycle begin to evolve?

Currently, the fashion cycle is the process of manufacturing a garment, selling it to the consumers, and then waiting for it to be thrown into a landfill after the consumer is finished wearing the garment. This cycle must stop because it is polluting our earth and affecting our fellow animals. If the fashion industry started to use biotech textiles, our fashion cycle would be

“ THE QUESTION REMAINS:

WILL THE FASHION CYCLE BEGIN TO EVOLVE? ”

was the creation of bio-algae knit material, which was created by FIT students for the Biodesign Challenge.

This textile is made out of many different types of algae and fungi. One may not know that when the material comes out, it comes out in the form of a filament. The filament is then hand-woven into a garment. Manufacturing garments like this in the future will have a great effect on the planet and the sustainability of the fashion industry.

Just like the algae knit, many fashion designers are looking for ways to create biotech garments that do not involve the use of animals or harmful chemicals.

For example, the designer Stella McCartney developed a lab-made yarn that is made from protein. With the

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much more beneficial to The Earth. The cycle would be continuous since the textiles are constructed from a decomposable material that can be help the ecosystem.

Biotechnology will continue to progress in the future, and it will hopefully lead to some great discoveries in textiles. The use of the biotech textiles would help promote the use of textiles throughout the industry, from high-end ready-to-wear to fast fashion. The cycle of fashion will evolve to help become a renewable source of materials that will help the earth, instead of harm it. Not long from now in the future, we will see people walking down 5th avenue, in their fresh-off-therunway, fashion-forward biotech clothing.

Vega ni s m

B Y K AT I E CO STA

VEGANS ARE PROTEIN DEFICIENT

VEGAN FOOD IS BORING

Ah, the passive aggressive comment that

Alright...to bust this myth, here is a list of

all vegans get time and time again: “Where

junk foods that are vegan: Oreos, Duncan

do you get your protein?” There is no doubt

Hines cake mix and frosting, potato chips,

that humans need protein in their diet.

Pringles, Hershey’s chocolate syrup,

Protein builds muscle, allows your organs

Pillsbury Crescent rolls, Ritz, Unfrosted Pop

to run smoothly, and keeps your brain alert

Tarts, Nutter Butters, Krispy Kreme fruit

and healthy. Protein isn’t only found in meat

pies, Teddy Grahams, Ghirardelli Double

though, and to think that is a caveman’s

Chocolate Brownie Mix, Spicy Sweet Chili

verdict. It is surprisingly simple to get the

Doritos, Sour Patch Kids, and Cracker Jack

amount of protein needed per day from

Popcorn. And there’s plenty more where

just plant-based products. If as a vegan, a

that came from. Enough said.

well-rounded diet is consumed and there is

VEGANS HAVE WEAK BONES

ample calorie intake, odds are protein defi-

Many of us have grown up with the idea that

VEGANS ARE FITNESS OBSESSED

strong bones comes from drinking milk!

The “Got Milk?” campaign posters were

Sure, we all see those vegan girls on Insta-

that you find out about from a friend of a

gram that are totally ripped and look like

friend of a friend. While vegans come in

glowing island princesses. Too bad those

all shapes and sizes, the common vegan

are a rare breed, a highly motivated and

most definitely can chow down on some

super self-disciplined breed. So, if they

Oreos and potato chips. Results come from

were a dog, you would definitely have to

what people choose to do with the vegan

get them from an exclusive dog breeder

lifestyle, not simply just making the switch.

plastered all over the walls of the common elementary school for years. Even though milk is advertised as the only source of calcium, that doesn’t mean there aren’t alternative sources. These include: plant milks, tofu, kale, mustard greens, chia seeds, oranges, beans, and broccoli.

Like any lifestyle or diet change, you get out ILLUSTRATION BY NICOLE RUFFINO

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I WAS VEGAN FOR A WEEK AND

ALL I GOT WAS THIS DAMN ARTICLE

BY BRANDON SALOY

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O

N THE WARM, STICKY EVENING of September 24th I stood considering a loaf of bread longer than I ever had before. My eyes scanned, for what had to be a full five minutes, for two keywords: milk, eggs. If you’ve never had to look for these things in the food you eat, you’ve probably never given these common culprits much thought. I

surely had not. I was learning all too quickly that night in aisle 10 that the road to veganism is not paved in quick stops at the grocery store that could be fit into a lunch-hour. Not this early in the game.

I had done a lot of thinking that night

week is a lot easier than telling all the world

twenty-one-year-old male, to lose weight,

about the last meals of men condemned

to boycott the meat industry altogether. In

that possibility seemed slight. That being

to death. There are a few ways you can go

beginning this experiment, I was not one bit

said, who am I to turn down dropping a few

about this. You can make a spectacle and

worried about missing meat for this single

pounds?

order ten sirloins all done up in onions and

week. What I was already mourning the loss

gravy, but who wants to bother with all that

of that night in the supermarket, however,

What would I do if presented with the

cutting and chewing in your last hours of

was dairy.

spontaneous dinner out with friends? I’ve

breath? You can order a favorite pastime—

The simple fact is that whether we give

What daunted me was the unexpected;

always sort of judged people who seem

your mother’s casserole, your grand-

it any thought or not, dairy is in practically

annoyed when there aren’t vegan options

mother’s brisket—but this, of course, leaves

everything—or at least in most of the things

at whatever, say, Italian restaurant they’re

you vulnerable to the risk of receiving the

that I enjoy on a daily basis.

at. A culture rooted in eating cured meats

worst brisket you’ve ever had, thus ruining

A diet like this takes planning, most of

the idea of a last meal altogether. You can

which had to be done before I even went to

accommodate people with such severe

make a statement: A single olive?

the supermarket that night. I had done my

limitations on their diet. Maybe it’s small-

research the week prior, combing through

minded of me, but I didn’t want to have to be

of meat-freedom that night was at a family

all the vegan recipe sites, blogs, Youtube

that guy.

get-together at an establishment not of my

channels, and beyond to find a wheelhouse

choosing. At this restaurant, guests line

of meals and snacks I could depend on for

I left school in the evening to see Hello

up for tables on a red carpet strategically

the next week. I considered what ingredi-

Dolly! with my boyfriend. We needed to

placed in front of a glass case of raw meat,

ents had to be acquired to replace the ones

grab dinner first, and in a blind attempt at

from which you are encouraged to pick a

I had at home that were not compliant (I

a simple solution I Yelp’d “vegan food” and

specific slab for your meal. Feeling the irony

swapped chicken broth for vegetable and

found a little place just a few blocks from

was just a tad too on-the-nose, I avoided

regular milk for almond, etc.).

campus! (It’s amazing the places you don’t

In an obnoxious coincidence my last meal

eye-contact with the beef and went with a chicken breast in a light mushroom sauce.

What I was excited for was eating more

and cheeses can’t be expected to bend to

That night happened mid-week, when

notice when you don’t have any need for

vegetables. I really didn’t want to be the type meat-and-dairy-less options) We went in of vegan that simply searches for all of the

and I ordered a hot wrap with curry vegeta-

I DON’T EAT MEAT EVERY DAY, and I don’t

junk food that just happens to be vegan.

bles and soy protein.

feel that I have to. I’ve read all the same

As someone who has always suffered from

Here’s the thing about soy-protein and

articles that you have that advocate for

acne, I was interested to see whether or not

all it’s meatless cousins: I’m not about food

controlled meat-and-dairy consumption.

eating better would do anything for my skin.

that pretends to be other food. I like food

To manage the climate crisis we now face,

As for losing weight, I wasn’t all that inter-

to be up front about what it is and how it

cutting meat out of three or four meals in a

ested, and despite how easy it is for me, a

tastes. I love a tofu, but please don’t patron-

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THE ASSIGNMENT: KEEP A 100% VEGAN DIET FOR ONE SCHOOL WEEK TO REPORT TO THE CARNIVOROUS READERS OF BLUSH WHAT IT REQUIRES TO CUT ALL ANIMAL PRODUCTS OUT OF ONE’S DIET. WITH ONLY ABOUT SIX HOURS TO SPARE OF MEAT-EATING FREEDOM, I KNEW I HAD MY WORK CUT OUT FOR ME. 3 6 / / B LUSH M AGFIT.COM

Here are some of the things I used to curb that vacant feeling, as well as what I learned to avoid: SWEET POTATOES They saved my life. They’re sweet (duh), a great

SMOKED PAPRIKA A friend introduced me to this earlier this year. If

source of vitamins and dietary fiber, and they fill you up, which is

you’re missing that smokey taste of any kind of grilled meat, add this

crucial when you’re cutting

to your veggies in the skillet for a smokey, savory good time.

out more than half of the food you’re used to eating.

OREOS I know I said I didn’t want to be eating junk food the whole

NUTRITIONAL YEAST People will tell you that this powdery, flaky

time, but I needed some sort of touchstone to the non-vegan world.

substance tastes like cheese. They are lying to you.

We’re all fools for thinking that Oreo “cream” is really such. As per the Oreo website, there is “cross-contact” between Oreos and milk in the factory, but I am an ameture vegan and this did not bother me.

ize me by moulding it into the shape of a

I get when someone sits uncomfortably

recipes that I tried and while they did

drumstick with a wooden bone down the

close to me in an otherwise empty subway

require more prep than my usual on-the-go-

center. I know what chicken tastes like. All

car. One can only think of the comfort they

lunches, they’re not at all hard to assemble.

this being said, the wrap was delicious and

could easily have when the choices are all

Many of them don’t even require cooking

I would have it again. The boyfriend enjoyed

before them. All this being said, I would

and consist of just a few ingredients. For

his kale salad.

recommend to anyone giving this a try to

instance, I liked the sweet potato salad I

do so—if in any way possible—in complete

made so much that I made a big batch of it

I LEARNED BY THE SECOND DAY that my

isolation from the things one shouldn’t

to eat as a side dish for the entire week.

morning routine is my most challenging

be eating.

vegan hour. Now, since I tried this diet

I’ve always loved cooking. When I cook I

As for the effects that the week had on me, while my energy level had to be more

purely for the documentary experience

am immediately transported to my Grand-

frequently replenished, in no way did I feel

you’re now reading, I made sure to leave

mother’s kitchen, the place where I learned

that I had less energy throughout the day.

time in my schedule to prep meals for the

practically everything I know about prepar-

One friend asked me if I was dizzy from not

next day. This, however, is something I’m

ing a meal. I was shocked at how emotion-

having meat protein—I replied with a confi-

confident would not always happen in my

ally tied I was to a lot of the food that I eat.

dent “no.” No weight loss or skin improve-

day-to-day life.

For instance, a lazy Sunday morning feels a

ment was noticed (I’m sure that would

little empty without a fried egg and glass of

happen over a longer period of time), but my

cranberry juice.

digestion during the week was impeccable

But on an entirely different note, I began to realize during these mornings the emotional effects of beginning this lifestyle.

(to be filed under “Things I Never Thought I’d

As someone who lives with their family, it’s

THE TAKEAWAY: I don’t think this is for

not as if I could simply discard or use up all

me. My main gripe about eating vegan was

Going vegan is clearly not for everyone.

of the non-vegan foods in the fridge in order

the healthy things that I was unable to eat.

I’m sure you didn’t have to read this article

to keep meaty temptation at bay. Every

Forget all the questionable dietary choices

to know that. But it is doable if you really

time I went to the fridge or pantry for food,

that I cut out for a moment and consider

give it your best shot. As a person who is

I was immediately confronted by all of the

fish. Delicious, good for you, and totally off

principally adverse to being strictly limited

things that were ideologically out of reach

the table if you’re going vegan. Incredibly

in any way, this dip into vegan waters was

Write In a Blush Article”).

to me. That feeling of restriction was almost frustrating.

a power struggle with myself that I would

claustrophobic; I likened it to the feeling

rather not repeat.

This being said, I did love some of the

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DESIGNER FEATURE

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PHOTOGRAPY BY RICHARD DIFRISCO HAIR & MAKEUP BY LIANA PRINZEVALLI MODELED BY JADE KEDRICK WITH MAJOR MODELS AND DORIS SHAPIRO

The body of the jacket as well as most of the trim throughout the collection is made from Thermo-chromatic color change polyurethane (changes color with heat). The polyurethane and the faux fur were donated by Sommers Plastics. The collection incorporated clothing which was re-purposed: sweatshirt, t-shirts and plaid shirts.

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hristina DeGaglia is a fashion designer, artist, and vegan who graduated the Fashion Institute of Technology with a Bachelors of Fine Arts majoring in Fashion Design sportswear. While at FIT, she educated herself about the needless abuse, exploitation, and murder of our fellow earthlings for food, fashion, and entertainment. She felt that there would be no point in creating beautiful fashion if it could not help animals. That is why she made this collection her senior year and why she will continue to make animal rights-inspired clothing. She hopes her collection makes people think about the choices they make every day and how they impact themselves, the planet, and the most innocent beings on Earth.

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THE VEGAN VIGILANTES AND WHERE THEY GO

G R N O W fruit, says CNN. Though veganism does reduce carbon emissions, food wastage creates bigger problems. Plus, veganism does not use all of Earth’s arable land, as stated by Quartz. Though this does not impact the environment directly, with 8 billion humans, a vegan world is feeding less people.

Finally, 12 percent of the globe’s arable area is growing rice, which produces a comparable carbon footprint to beef. (Anyone looking to be rice-itarian? No? Didn’t think so.) If global veganism is the goal, then humans have to turn to daily staples to fill the gap in their

B Y G RAC E P EISK E R

diets—rice included. Back to square one. Until then, someone else is eating the meat that vegans leave in the grocery store. A vegan world is a great idea, but logistics like these cause significant prob-

W E LCO M E TO NE W YOR K , ONE OF T H E M O S T V EG AN - FRIEN DLY C ITIES .

lems. Science says we could dial back our carbon footprint, but not

There are 3.7 million vegans country-wide, according to VeganBits.

totally with veganism. Currently developing is In-Vitro meat, aka

Overall, Vegan Outreach claims that Americans are shifting towards

meat grown in a lab from parts of other meat. Supermarkets are

a paleo diet. However, this is slow. Only about three million people

also changing, and 10 percent of grocery store buys are dedicated

have gone vegan in the past twenty years. Meanwhile, the Earth is

to health foods. This growth could mean widespread veganism,

warming quickly, and science is turning to vegans for inspiration;

rather than just in major cities. A light is being shined on food waste

search “vegan by 2050”and several sites like HuffPost and BBC

as well. With these progressions in society, a healthier world lies

claim a vegan America by 2050 is possible, and effective. However,

ahead. Besides going vegan, the most important thing to do is stay

due to the meat industry and climate change, changing an entree

informed. It is our responsibility to understand how our actions

from beef to tofu can’t be the best or most efficient solution for

affect the world now more than ever. None of us here at FIT are

the world today in stopping climate change. There are significant

scientists, (besides maybe some textile kids) but when we are

issues with going vegan for the environment. One of the biggest is

conscientious of the food we eat and the impact we make, society

food waste. One is less likely to toss fresh meat than vegetables or

progresses towards a better future.

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ILLUSTRATION BY CHRISTA CAMP

DIRTY SECRET

BY BE L L A CACCI ATO R E

Eating disorders are often an issue of control, and a diet based on restrictions is the perfect outlet for those suffering to exercise I S I T JUS T ME, OR DO ES IT S EEM IM P O S S IB LE TO S C RO L L T H R OUGH

Instagram without a vegan meal or smoothie bowl coming across

excessive control over their food.

A 2012 study found that the general population went vegetarian

your feed. It seems like everywhere you turn, Lulu Lemon-clad

because of current trends or to be “healthier,” while nearly half of

influencers are urging their followers to begin a “clean” lifestyle,

the participants studied with an eating disorder chose a vegetarian

consisting of a vegan diet and lots of yoga. “Wellness” has taken over

diet solely for weight-related reasons. However, the same study

millennials full-force, but this concept, hidden behind crystals and

also found that vegetarians with eating disorders often reported

juice cleanses, may be doing more harm than good.

symptoms before choosing to become vegetarian, meaning

While it is more than okay to encourage a healthy lifestyle while

vegetarianism doesn’t cause eating disorders, but rather can be

conserving animal and environmental resources, it is important to

used as an excuse. For example, it is much easier to justify skipping

take into account what effects words can have, especially for those

a meal or eating just an apple for lunch when there are no vegan

suffering from eating orders. First of all, eating “clean” implies that

options to eat.

there is something inherently “dirty” or shameful about the food we put in our bodies.

Our current wellness culture creates an environment where vegan diets are celebrated, not only making it easy to restrict food, but making it appear an admirable and healthy choice. Vegan,

OUR CURRENT WELLNESS CULTURE CREATES AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE VEGAN DIETS ARE CELEBRATED

gluten free, and paleo diets can most definitely be done in a healthy and positive way, and people chose these diets for a multitude of reasons. It’s not these diets themselves that are harmful; the thought process that eating organic lettuce somehow makes you

This culture of food-shaming leads us to believe that there is

a better person than someone enjoying a bag of chips is what’s

such thing a thing as “good” and “bad” food, and to be hyper-aware

making the trend dangerous. In a world where trendy diets are the

of everything we put in our bodies. While it is clear that certain

norm, veganism

foods are better for our bodies, for someone who has a difficult

can just be a social-

relationship with food, it is essential that they establish a positive

ly-acceptable, or

relationship with food period. Labeling certain foods as “toxic” will

even celebrated

enhance the stigma surrounding food, and create a negative

eating disorder.

relationship between you and what’s on your plate.

And there’s nothing

For those who are prone to restrictive eating, or may be recovering from an eating disorder, veganism, gluten free, or paleo diets can be a slippery slope. While the goal of these diets are positive, they can mask, and even justify harmful behavior.

ILLUSTRATIONS BY NICOLE RUFFINO

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clean about that.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TESSA NORTON MODELED BY AWA DOUMBIA, ZHANÉ NORMAN, KAYLA MONROE, AND VANESSA STEVENSON

naturalistas

BY R E BE K A BO N I LLA

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WHEN YOU LOOK U P “ B EAU TIFU L H AIR” O N

hair. They routinely repeat this process to

Google the first picture that comes up is a

keep up with what they have been taught is

of your hair! Many natural girls dive into the

woman with polished, straight hair. We live

beautiful. So many young girls around us are

curly hair lifestyle by making homemade

in a culture that considers “good hair” to be

changing themselves to be something that

hair masks, incorporating different types of

shiny, frizz-free, and silky. Like many

they’re not, instead of embracing what they

oils to replenish and nourish their curls. Like

situations, society sets an unrealistic

were blessed with.

many women, our very own “Naturalistas” at

standard of beauty on our hair. Women all around the world have thin hair, thick hair, waves, curls, kinks, and ‘fros! A revolution has been emerging, changing how we view our hair. Over the last decade, beauty has evolved, and more and more women of color have been proudly joining the “natural hair movement” However, for many years, women have felt pressured to manipulate their hair in an effort to appeal to European standards of beauty. Women of color have used perms, relaxers, and straightening combs to assimilate into mainstream beauty ideals.

Sometimes known as the “creamy crack,” relaxers are lotions or creams that make the hair easier to straighten and manage.

From the young age of even 7 years old, girls with beautiful ringlets start relaxing their

WEARING OUT YOUR NATURAL HAIR RADIATES BEAUTY THAT COMES FROM EMBRACING YOUR TRUE SELF.

So show love to your hair by taking care

FIT have similar journeys to other women who decide to go natural: From disliking their curly hair and straightening it to fully embracing and loving their mane.

We see natural hair rising up in our culture through runway shows and feminism. Celebrities like Solange and Alicia Keys are crusaders for natural hair and

The natural hair movement focuses on

inspire girls to flaunt their locks. Slowly

encouraging women of color to celebrate

but surely, society is accepting all hair as

and enjoy their kinky, curly texture. So what

beautiful. Living the natural hair lifestyle

does “going natural” actually mean? Natural

is liberating; by not altering your hair, you

hair is defined as African-American hair, or

can embrace who you fully are. Above

similar hair types, that is relaxer-and-

everything else, being natural means being

chemical-free. Natural hair refers to the

you. Wearing out your natural hair radiates

texture of your hair, so changing the color

beauty that comes from embracing your

of your hair, wearing weaves or wigs, or

true self. When women join the natural hair

flat-ironing your hair from time to time

movement, it’s a choice not only to embrace

doesn’t mean you are no longer natural.

their curls but to uncompromisingly embrace their identity.

FA LL 2 017 // 47

: L A E R O ’ INSIDE L

?

E E R F Y C R U E LT

CH SB AU M

BY KA SE Y BU

S, ILY S T E P H E N T IO N S M E H IT W W A N IN T E R V IE C O R P O R AT E C O M M U N IC A F D IR E C T O R O

If L’Oreal is active with organizations

Centre is to promote new and

such as The European Partnership for

improved testing efficiencies in the

Alternative Approaches to Animal Testing

cosmetic industry.

(EPAA), why does the company continue to sell in markets that require animal testing

How does L’Oreal feel about consumers

by law?

that choose not to buy their products

Even though L’Oreal is in cooperation with

specifically because they sell in animal

these organizations, they choose to sell the

testing markets?

brand in countries such as China to main-

The company understands the concern

tain international market recognition. By

for animals and the moral aspects of the

working with these government organiza-

wrongdoings of testing products in such a

tions, it is easier to influence change.

way. L’Oreal has been incredibly engaged in the movement to put a stop to this

With L’Oreal’s huge influence and platform worldwide, why are they not using these opportunities to promote the importance of cruelty-free products?

L’Oreal is an influencer in working with

What actions is L’Oreal taking to eliminate

testing worldwide. With this being said, the

animal testing laws and regulations in

company remains off of the cruelty-free list

China? Does L’Oreal fund the testing?

only because of their sales in various coun-

With programs such as the Episkin Centre,

tries that require the animal testing by law.

it shows the government programs there

L’Oreal products are not tested on animals

are alternatives out there to testing on

in any way during the creation process.

animals. However, the company never has denied paying for animal testing to be done.

government programs, in various countries,

Does L’Oreal plan to be completely cruelty free in the future?

to end the cosmetic testing on animals.

How is L’Oreal’s Episkin Centre in Shanghai

L’Oreal remains one of the most actively

At the moment, the company claims to

influencing the industry?

involved companies in working with govern-

not be able to prevent the regulatory tests

Although the government testing on

ment authorities to put an end to animal

from being performed in these countries.

animals has decreased thanks to

testing. Over time, with new innovations the

However, in 2014, it became evident that

inventive forthcomings similar to the

company is working towards providing only

certain products, including shampoo, body

Episkin Centre, these testing regulations

alternative testings in governments all over

wash, or specific make-up items are not

are still being required for the vast majority

the world. The health and safety of

tested on animals.

of the imports. The purpose of the Episkin

customers is a priority for the company.

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HALAL BEAUTY

Most of us go intoour everyday beauty routine without giving much thought to what is actually in our products. There are oils, vitamins, and minerals, but there are also chemicals, alcohol, and various animal by-products. With an alternative, more natural beauty category, halal beauty, you won’t have to worry about what’s in your lipstick or hairspray anymore.

BY K I A NA CL E VI NG ER

HA L A L MEA NS L AWFU L O R P ERM ITTED IN ARAB IC , and has been around

since the creation of Islam where its guidelines were described in the Qur’ān, Islam’s sacred text. Products labeled “Halal” are manufactured, produced, and composed of ingredients that are permissible under Islamic law. Pork, blood, and animals that were dead prior to slaughtering, alcohol, and animal fat are a few examples of what is considered “haram,” or “forbidden” in Arabic. This means halal beauty products aren’t always vegan, but are always cruelty-free, otherwise it wouldn’t be considered acceptable according to the religious practice. Halal doesn’t fall only in a beauty category, as it is also a lifestyle, meaning it refers to clothing and food as well.

SO WHY SWITCH TO HALAL BEAUTY PRODUCTS? Although not all halal beauty is vegan, it is more organic and natural.

Studies show that one in eight of the average 82,000 ingredients used in personal care products are industrial chemicals. There are little to none of those toxic chemicals such as carcinogens, pesticides, reproductive toxins, hormone disruptors, plasticizers, degreasers, and surfactants found in halal products. For those of us that want to try a more natural lifestyle, you should consider halal beauty to start.

Some halal brands to try out are FX Cosmetics, SAAF Skincare, One Pure, Amara Cosmetics, and Sampure Mineral. Although these halal brands aren’t sold in stores like Sephora and Ulta yet, you can still find them on their websites.

ILLUSTRATION BY CHRISTA CAMP

FA L L 2 017

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FASHION DESIGNERS THAT USE VEGAN FABRICS

B Y EMILLY ME DE RSKI

SUSI STUDIOS SUSI Studios, based in LA, focuses on compassion towards animals, humanity, and the environment. The founder, Bianca Moran, opened the first vegan eatery in the Philippines and worked to promote a cleaner, more compassionate lifestyle.

This was incorporated into her brand.

Alternative materials are canvas, hemp, faux leather, and denim.

MATT & NAT In MattandNat, the breakdown is (Mat)erial and (Nat)ure. The brand is all for sustainability and all things clean living. Manufacturing warehouses use the SA8000 Standard of operations to maintain the proper treatment of workers, and they are visited regularly. Products are made cruelty-free, vegan, and out of recycled materials. MattandNat uses the motto that “If you haven’t used it in the last six months, someone else can!”

ARMANI GROUP Everyone knows the ever popular Giorgio Armani. Within the past year, the Armani Group made the decision to forfeit the use of all animal furs in their products due to the unnecessary cruelty, and because there are so many different technologically advanced alternatives out there. While not 100% vegan, they are headed in that

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direction.

CANINE COUTURE

BY K I R S T E N LU T LE Y

P ET FA S HI ON: I S IT C U TE, O R C RU EL? TH IS H AS B EEN A H OT TOPI C SI N CE

before Paris Hilton stepped out with her chihuahua, Tinkerbell, decked out in matching outfits. But the ethical implications of dressing up animals has sparked international debate.

On one hand, some argue that certain animals need the extra clothing. A small domesticated dog may need that protection

Others think that it’s simply

from the elements that can only be offered

animal abuse to be using

by a pooch-sized coat. Others just see pet

the pet as a kind of fashion

fashion as a fun way to make your pet even

accessory, as it goes against the

more unique. Recently, many pet owners

natural order and behavior of a dog.

gathered at the Madison Square Park dog

Pet fashion is widely celebrated around

park to let their pets play around, and many

the world as a cute and fun way to express

of them wore outfits. Some wore them

your pet’s personality. Brands like Canine

up your pet? “It’s all about knowing your

because they needed the extra warmth, like

Styles, Ruby Rufus, and Central Park Pups

pet’s personality and what’s right for them”,

Princess (a maltese), who wore a pink and

specialize in high-end pet fashion. Drag

said Brandon, the owner of a labradoodle

blue sweater to keep her protected from

queen Sasha Velour recreates her iconic Ru

named Bear, “Bear loves to wear Halloween

the windy New York breeze. Others, like

Paul’s Drag Race looks through her Italian

costumes, but he’s uncomfortable in hats

labradoodle Henry, donned a lion’s mane

greyhound, Vanya. Pet fashion shows pop

and boots.” If you want to experiment with

just for fun.

up around the world not just for fun,

fur coloring, make sure you buy something

On the other hand, the clothing may hurt or restrain

but to raise money for various animal charities.

So how should one go about dressing

that is pet-safe and go lightly. Once your furry friend indicates that they’re not a fan

the animal, or dyes

of what’s going on, it’s time to stop. This is a

may irritate the

new experience for them, and at the end

animal’s coat.

of the day, it all comes down to your pet’s unique personality and style.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARLOTTE SPAID

FA L L 2 017

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getting boozy (minus the hangover)

B Y C A RO LINE WILCOX There’s a new, intoxicating trend hitting the market, and you may even see it on the chalkboard outside your favorite bar. Meant to incorporate all of the senses, boozy fragrances are exactly what they sound like: perfumes or colognes that smell like an alcoholic beverage. These scents come from moods and atmospheres and are meant to provoke a feeling. Rather than smelling like a night of bad decisions, they capture the essence of a drink and form it into an aromatic experience.

Saskia Wilson-Brown, founder of LA’s Institute for Art and Olfaction says that the “foodie movement” is connected to the niche perfumes “since people who appreciate fine liqueurs and artisan coffees also appreciate artisan perfumes.”

So drink—or rather spritz—to these five boozy fragrances.

wine

For when you meet a friend at an unnecessarily fancy

whiskey

Wear this on a late, sunny afternoon while sitting next to a smoky, crackling fire. This fragrance delivers a warm and fuzzy feeling with an intense sweetness layered under aged wood. Pour a cocktail while smoking a cigar, get comfy in a huge armchair, and let this fragrance transport you to a New Orleans speakeasy circa 1927, with it’s notes of whiskey, rum, leather, and tobacco.

Maison Margiela Replica Eau de Toilette in Jazz Club $125

gin

hotel bar for a drink after work. The combination

Forget the gut-stuffing dinner parties, this one is for a

of sweet and spicy aromas create a sensual feeling

lavish night out on which the possibilities are endless.

without the anguish of spilling it on your clean, white

You go out to a new and intimate club. The atmosphere

top. This modern personality scent is exotic: Clean and

is deep, dark, and mysterious as the only lighting comes

fresh, yet seductive and sensual.

from the ambient glow of small candles on the wooden

Kelly + Jones Reserve Collection $75 (choose from

tables. The playlist is a low murmuring of heart to heart

Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet, Riesling,

conversations between good friends. Gin scents are

and Rose)

refreshing, yet sensual; reminiscent of an expensive martini.

rum

Both sweet and spicy, this fragrance is your perfect companion to a party in Antigua. A simple mix of wood and a mouth-burning sip of aged rum is mixed into a powerful scent evoking the feeling of when tropical house music mixes with the beat of your heart.

Nasomatto Baraonda $141.59

ILLUSTRATION BY TAYLOR BENDER

5 2 / / B LUSH M AGFIT.COM

Tom Ford Costa Azzurra $225

BY ME L I S S A D EO L I V E I R A

vegetarian dim sum house

the butcher’s daughter

screamer’s pizzeria

Stars: 3.5

Stars: 3.5

Stars: 4

Best for cheap and quick dim sum.

Best for Sunday brunch.

Best for pizza, duh!

Location: 24 Pell Street

Location: 581 Hudson Street

Location: 620 Manhattan Avenue

New York, NY 10013b/t

New York, NY 10014b/t

Brooklyn, NY 11222b/t Nassau Avenue

Doyers Street & Mott Street, Chinatown

11th Street & Bank Street, West Village

& Driggs Avenue, Greenpoint

blossom

cinnamon snail

confectionary

Stars: 4

Stars: 4

Stars: 5

Best for intimate dinner dates.

Best for a donut in between classes.

Best for satisfying a sweet tooth.

Location: 187 9th Avenue

Location: The Pennsy, 2 Pennsylvania Plaza

Location: 440 E 9th Street

New York, NY 10011b/t

New York, NY 10121, Midtown West

New York, NY 10009b/t East 9th Street &

21st Street & 22nd Street, Chelsea

by chloe Stars: 4 Best for a quick yet hearty lunch.

Location: 185 Bleecker Street New York, NY 10012b/t Sullivan Street & Mac Dougal Street, Greenwich Village

superiority burger Stars: 4 Best for greasy guilty pleasures.

Location: 430 E 9th Street New York, NY 10009b/t East 9th Street & Avenue A, East Village, Alphabet City

Avenue A, East Village, Alphabet City

terri Stars: 4 Best for quick takeout lunches.

Location: 100 Maiden Lane New York, NY 10038b/t Pearl Street & Gold Street, Financial District

champs diner Stars: 4 Best for late night breakfast for dinner.

Location: 197 Meserole Street Brooklyn, NY 11206b/t Bushwick Avenue & Humboldt Street, East Williamsburg

LETTERING BY AGA M AG D Z IAK

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THE MORAL LINE OF

VEGANISM B Y MEL KEIFER

A VEG AN IS DEF I NED A S S OMEONE W H O DO ES

workers from other countries. Partic-

heavily buried in overseas product devel-

not consume or use any animal products.

ularly India, where 60% of the cashews

opment, it’s not the only one. Clothing is a

Vegans believe it is inhumane to eat, use, or

consumed globally are processed. There,

big issue when it comes to being “cruelty

take anything from another living creature.

workers risk their health and their lives to

free” and “vegan.” A lot of clothing worn in

Vegans will not eat honey or use beeswax

earn 30p a day, the equivalent of around

the U.S is made overseas, in sweatshops,

candles because it is taking something

40 cents in U.S money. These workers risk

specifically in China and Taiwan. Compa-

made by another living creature. Many

caustic burns, which they get due to the

nies attempt to distance themselves from

vegans make sure that the make up they

acids that lay between the two layers of the

the imagery and idea of sweatshops by

buy and shampoo they use is completely

hard shell of the nut. Some of these cashew

using inbetween companies that claim

cruelty free and is not tested on animals. It

workers are forced into labor camps where

to “be better.” They promote safer and

is usually their goal to live a happy, healthy

they are beaten into harvesting, clean-

better working conditions, yet then they

life that does not harm another living crea-

ing and preparing cashews for american

secretly pay sweatshops to do a large

ture. Yet, what many people forget to look

consumption.

amount of the more labor-intensive work

at in their search for cruelty free products

Loved by many and easily made vegan,

of clothing assembly. These sweatshops

is whether the people who are making,

chocolate is consumed en masse in the

are located in dangerous and old buildings

picking, collecting their product are treated

United States and by most vegans. Most

that are not kept up to any safety regula-

to the same cruelty free standards they

of the cocoa used to make the chocolate

tions. The workers are often young women

hold for other creatures. Can a brand truly

eaten in America is harvested and refined

and children, who have no other way to

be vegan, be humane, if humans are being

through child labor. An estimated 2.1 million

help support their families. The workers

mistreated for the product?

West African children do dangerous and

while treated terribly are also underpaid.

physically harmful work harvesting cocoa

The monthly minimum wage for garment

undoubtedly first-world privilege. In substi-

daily. Ivory Coast and Ghana together

workers in Bangladesh is $68, compared

tute for meat and dairy, people can easily

produce 60% of the words cocoa. In 2015

with about $280 on the mainland in China.

find foods made from soy, cashews, and

alone, Ivory coast exported nearly 1.8

Despite these well known facts China is still

many other protein sources. Cashews are

million metric tons of cocoa, two-fifths of

the world’s biggest clothes exporter.

a big substitute in vegan foods, especially

the global production. Young children are

vegan sweets. Generally used to replace

being denied the right of an education so

tating structural failures in Bangladesh

butter or cream, softened cashews seem

that they can help farm cocoa and keep up

took place. In Dhaka District, the Rana

like a great replacement. What many

with first world countries desire for a sweet

Plaza, an eight story building owned by

people do not realize is that cashews are

treat.

Sohel Rana, collapsed and killed around

Having the choice to be vegan is an

often produced by underpaid, mistreated

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While the food industry has its hand’s

On April 23, 2013, one of the most devas-

1,135. Approximately 2,500 were pulled from

the building, alive but severely injured. The

by Dana Thomas talks about a assem-

building, while containing clothing facto-

bly plant in Thailand. The quote reads, “‘I

ries, was also inhabited by a bank, several

remember walking into an assembly plant in

shops, and apartments. Early on cracks

Thailand a couple of years ago and seeing

started to appear in the building and the

six or seven little children, all under 10

bank and shops closed immediately, but

years old, sitting on the floor assembling

the owners ignored the warnings. The day

counterfeit leather handbags,’ an investi-

before the collapse, more cracks appeared

gator told me... ‘The owners had broken the

but the garment workers were ordered

children’s legs and tied the lower leg to the

to return to work anyways. The building

thigh so the bones wouldn’t mend. [They]

collapsed at around 08:57 a.m. the next

did it because the children said they wanted

day. The building had already had three

to go outside and play.” Buying a counter-

more floors than was permitted on the original permit and was not in great condition.

This tragedy resulted in The Walt Disney Co.’s decision to end its apparel production

“ ITS VERY HARD IN THIS DAY AND AGE TO BE COMPLETELY CRUELTY FREE AND VEGAN.”

in Bangladesh, but many companies, like Walmart for instance, still gets the majority

feit bag, pleather or not, is supporting this

of their clothes from sweatshops oversea,

industry that is in no way humane.

much like the ones in the Rana Plaza.

Some vegans may attempt to buy knock

Its very hard in this day and age to be completely cruelty free and vegan. Being

off handbags, specifically pleather ones,

vegan is easier if these human rights viola-

so as not to support the use of leather.

tions are overlooked. People are pushing

This seems great, until it is revealed that

for the fair treatments of animals, but in

the counterfeit handbag industry is a Multi-

that process the treatments of their fellow

billion-dollar global business that works

humans are being ignored. As a growing

mostly in slave, specifically child, labor.

cruelty free society that loves the idea of

Children are packed into small factories

veganism, these basic human rights should

with old and rusty sewing machine and

not be forgotten.

forced to work. A passage from the book Deluxe: How Luxury Lost Its Luster, written

FA L L 2 017

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natural selection PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER CULLUM STYLING BY DANIELA GARZA HAIR & MAKEUP BY DANIELLE DUVIDZON AND JAZMIN THOMAS ASSISTED BY ALI MARCONI AND SABINE SMITH MODELED BY ADDIE JONAS, ARMINE BAJRAMI, AND CILENE GUIADEEN (AMERICANA MODELS) PRODUCED BY HANNAH KEIFFERT AND HEATHER CULLUM SPECIAL THANKS TO NOAH FELDMAN

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JACKET & TURTLENECK BY FOREVER 21 SHORTS BY URBAN OUTFITTERS BOOTS BY H&M DIVIDED

JACKET & PANTS BY ZARA SHOES BY WESTIES

(OPPOSITE) JACKET BY KAREN KANE TURTLENECK BY FOREVER 21 SILK TOP BY JON QUILT

BY DIANE SAMANDI

TOP BY M SIAMO PANTS BY JONES NEW YORK SHOES BY BIMBA & LOLA

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HAT & SHOES BY FREE PEOPLE TURTLENECK BY BRANDY MELVILLE JACKET BY NEW YORK & COMPANY PANTS BY ANN TAYLOR LOFT

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LEFT COAT BY FREE PEOPLE DRESS & TURTLENECK BY FOREVER 21 SHOES BY FARYLROBIN CENTER TOP BY FREE PEOPLE PANTS BY GEORGES RECH PARIS SHOES BY ZARA BAG BY WHITING & DAVIS RIGHT HAT BY FREE PEOPLE TURTLENECK BY BRANDY MELVILLE VEST BY HALSTON PETITES PANTS BY DARLING BAG BY TONO OF MADRID SHOES BY ZARA

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