The Rebirth Issue
COVER Model Phoenix Simpson Photographer Allison Simms Stylists Adriana Bolaños, Maya Davila Makeup Jennie Segedin Hair Liberty Ackerman Graphic Designer Allison Simms
EXECUTIVE PORTRAITS Photographer Abbygail Coston
Dress Tamara George Shoes Vintage
Fall/Winter 2023
The Rebirth Issue Editor-in-Chief
Madison Collins
Creative Director Maya Davila President
Noreen Hofving
Art Director
Caitlin Yackley
Junior Art Director
Yukti Poddar
Fashion Director Adriana Bolaños Beauty Director
Jennie Segedin
Photo Director Elizabeth Armendarez Junior Photo Director
Tessa Young
Co-Photo Editors
Abbygail Coston & Allie Simms
Managing Editor
Josefina Lopez de Romana
Senior Fashion Editor
Natalie DeVito
Senior Beauty Editor Phoenix Simpson Senior Culture Editor Haneen Elemeswari Web Director Adrian Gonzalez Treasurer Esther Bhosale Editorial Assistant
Lizzie Lee
PR Director Beatriz Villanueva Co-Social Media Managers Videographer
Kaiyi Chen & Prashita Bassi Luna Abreia
Art and Design Ana Lac, Ashley Morris, Caitlin Yackley, Erin Black, Haram Choi, Jinoh Kim, Lily Kotz, Maria Orellana Garcia, Michal Fass, Yukti Poddar Photography Abbygail Coston, Allison Simms, Amanda DiMaio, Coral Day, Dahlia Mallebranche, Elizabeth Armendarez, Eva Deming, Holland Rainwater, Kat Kallopoulos, Madison Smith, Nafisah Crumity, Tina Holowat Fashion Aaliyah Howard, Adriana Bolaños, Alexa Torrejon, Ashi Schwartz, Eric Parmanan, Ifedinachi Obi, Jenna Markart, Kargine Chery, Lonnie Brown, Maya Davila, Nathaly Krzesiczan, Oliver Connolly, Oriana Aponte, Shelby Leeming, Yisha Li Beauty Alyssa Thomas, Andrea Saliva, Ashley Simas, Brooke Harry, Colleen White, Gloria Almenas Casiano, Halle Barton, Jae Tibak, Jennie Segedin, Katherine Aguilar, Lavani Laishram, Lea DeCicco, Liberty Ackerman, Lizzie Lee, Jenna Manfred, Nicole Cristobal, Nicole Feinberg, Nicole Yannarelli, Roshita Sajnani, Sarah Brifo
Blush is produced by the students of the Fashion Institute of Technology, part of the 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, nation origin, sex, gender, gender identity, religion, ethnic background, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military service status, genetic information, pregnancy, familial status, citizenship (except as required to comply with law), or any other criterion prohibited by law. Inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policy may be directed to the affirmative action officer/title IX coordination, (212) 217-3360, titleix@fitnyc.edu. MASTHEAD
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EXECUTIVE TEAM
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TABL 06 Editor’s Letter 08 Editor’s Picks
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ON CAMPUS
CULTURE
12 Trendspotting
26 Behind The Scenes
14 Never Too Late
32 Earning One’s Stripes
18 Modern Club Kids
36 The Future of Fame 42 Peaking Too Early 46 Street Fashion
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
LE OF 03
FASHION 52 Quitame la Piel 60 Armor of Innocence
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BEAUTY, WELLNESS & RELATIONSHIPS 86 Black Hair Love
66 Rise and Fall of Fashion Giants
96 At a Crossroads
70 The Art of Imperfection
102 The Price to be Beautiful
76 Tragedy at the Hands of Fashion
106 Rebirth Before You’re Dead 116 Entanglement
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Photographer Allison Simms Photo Assistant Amanda DiMaio Stylists Adriana Bolaños, Maya Davila Makeup Jennie Segedin Hair Liberty Ackerman Nails Lizzie Lee Model Madison Collins Graphic Designer Caitlin Yackley 06
Top Gabriella Mansour Pants Rafaella Shoes Versace Bag Andrew Kaefer
A decade has passed—and it’s time for a new dawn. As the Phoenix gracing our cover is reborn, Blush Magazine unfurls its new wings, ready to soar to new heights. Reflecting on the genesis of the Rebirth Issue, I vividly recall our initial meeting—Maya, Josefina, and I sat down at The Grey Dog Cafè; we decided then and there we desired to evolve Blush into the quintessential home for the Fashion Institute of Technology community. A community that radiates creativity and—dare I say—unconventionality. In the past, Blush has been a one-stop shop at the end of the semester, where if you weren’t a part of the magazine you would grab the issue and—well, that’s about it. In response to a past where exclusivity lingered, we birthed our ‘On-Campus’ section—a spotlight on the niches within the FIT community. By reaching out to our peers, we asked you what stories needed to be told. Collaborating with clubs such as the Black Student Union and Advertising and Digital Design Club, we shaped integral parts of the magazine. The introduction of “Street Fashion” and “Trendspotting” articles marked a departure from the privacy of a photo studio to 27th street, inviting all students together. From navigating club probation to reshuffling photoshoots, we encountered our fair share of obstacles. Yet, the team did not falter, they took every problem and forged a solution. For our ‘Executive Portraits’, it was only fair to put a spotlight on each individual member of our team—because without them, the show
would have never gone on. Throughout this journey, we shared laughter, shed tears, and made lasting friendships and future connections. After enduring 14-hour days, numerous nights, and countless visits to Contra Studios, this magazine now rests in your hands. There’s an unmistakable vulnerability—these pages are my skin, and here I stand, baring it all in front of you. The sensation is beyond words. Merely three years ago, I was in Alabama, stifled creatively, envisioning a life at the Fashion Institute of Technology and the pursuit of journalism—a true manifestation of the ‘Small Town to New York City’ trope. Now, amidst raw talent and dedication, while collaborating with an exceptional team, a sense of impostor syndrome sneaks in. Each of you propels me to greater heights, urging me to write more and continue to carve my place in the City. Together, we challenge the notion that we don’t belong—I have a feeling we all do the same for each other. The Blush Magazine team has tirelessly crafted a space that not only showcases your creations but also fosters visibility and resonance. We aim to be more than just a publication—we aspire to be a worthy opponent, pushing you to expand your creative boundaries in every aspect. As you delve into the pages of this issue, know that it’s not merely a magazine but a reflection of the passion, dedication, and collective spirit of the Blush and FIT community. Thank you for being part of this transformative journey—we’re thrilled to share it with you.
Cheers to Brighter Horizons, Madison Collins
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Graphic Designer Caitlin Yackley
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TRENDSPOTTING
Graphic Designer Ashley Morris Photographers Tina Holowat, Kat Kallopoulos
ON CAMPUS
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NEVER TOO LATE
Hat Priscilla Ghaznavi
Model Priscilla Ghaznavi Photographer Coral Day Stylist Nathaly Krzesiczan Makeup Colleen White Hair Jennie Segedin Nails Lizzie Lee Graphic Designer Caitlin Yackley ON CAMPUS
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Jacket Nico Volpe Top Vintage Bottoms Albert Duke Shoes Christian Louboutin Glasses Balenciaga 16
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MODERN CLUB KIDS
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MODERN CLUB KIDS
Models Oliver Connolly, Eric Parmanan, Jenna Markart, Lonnie Brown Photographer Nafisah Crumity Stylists Oliver Connolly, Eric Parmanan, Jenna Markart, Lonnie Brown ON CAMPUS
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Art @whalespoof 22
Graphic Designer Michal Fass 23
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BEHIND THE SCENES
CULTURE
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Model Hannah Riling Photographer Dahlia Mallebranche Stylist Maya Davila Makeup Alyssa Thomas Hair Jennie Segedin Nails Lizzie Lee Graphic Designer Haram Choi 28
Top All Saints Bag Valentino Pants Uniqlo Shoes Helmut Lang Glasses Miu Miu
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Jacket Blank NYC Top RtA Skirt Beacon’s Closet Shoes Helmut Lang Glasses Miu Miu 31
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EARNING ONE’S STRIPES
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Graphic Designer Maria Orellana Garcia 34
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THE FUTURE OF FAME
CULTURE
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Model Brandon Spigner Top Vintage Jacket Zara Pants Zara Shoes Calvin Klein Jewelry Louis Vuitton
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Photographer Amanda DiMaio Stylist Oriana Aponte Makeup Ashley Simas, Halle Barton Hair Liberty Ackerman Nails Nicole Cristobal Graphic Designer Caitlin Yackley 39
Dress BCBG Max Azria Jewelry Vintage Shoes Steve Madden
Top Joseph Abboud Jacket Zara Pants Zara Shoes Calvin Klein 40
Model Angelina Zizza Dress Flying Solo Gloves Maya Davila Shoes Steve Madden Jewelry Vintage
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PEAKING TOO EARLY
CULTURE
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Graphic Designer & Illustrator Gabriella Mansour 45
Model Anika Blau Designer Anika Blau
Photographers Eva Deming, Dahlia Mallebrance Graphic Designer Caitlin Yackley 46
STREET FASHION
CULTURE
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QUITAME LA PIEL
FASHION
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First Page: Umbrella Tonya Jackets Tonya Top Beacon’s Closet Denim Skirt Vintage Pink Skirt Pepela NYC
This Page: Top Pepela NYC Coat Beacon’s Closet Jeans Levi’s Boots Beacon’s Closet 55
Top I AM GIA Earrings Shop Amado Jeans BDG UO Shoes NiHaii
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Skirt I AM GIA Boots Nihaii Jacket Wilsons Leather Top Beacon’s Closet Sunglasses Beacon’s Closet 58
Models Naomi Uchida Chavez, Nicole Cristobal, Pilar Bradley Photographer Elizabeth Armendarez Stylist Adriana Bolaños Makeup Nicole Yannarelli, Gloria Almenas Casiano Hair Jennie Segedin Nails Nicole Cristobal
Graphic Designer Maria Orellana Garcia 59
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ARMOR OF INNOCENCE
Headpiece Armory Replicas Chainmail Dress SKNDLSS Skirt Beacon’s Closet Boots Public Desire Bracelet Swarovski Rings Vivienne Westwood
FASHION
Photographer Abbygail Coston Set Designer Jinoh Kim Stylist Yisha Li Makeup Collen White, Nicole Feinberg Hair Liberty Ackerman Nails Lizzie Lee Graphic Designer Yukti Poddar
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Model Haram Choi Bra Top KAITTiTUDE Dress Darker Wavs Underskirt Kimchi Blue Shoes Jeffrey Campbell Necklaces Vintage Bracelet Vivienne Westwood Earrings MARSEVEN
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Model Elisa Cose Dress Lioness Shoes Guanghuiyuzu Chainmail Bra Top SKNDLSS Bracelet Swarovski Rings Vivienne Westwood Headpiece BABEYOND Earring (left) 1ST XULIE Earring (right) Blackhead Necklace ZEGL 63
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Top The CoolGirl NYC Dress Vintage Shoes UBORYA
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THE RISE AND FALL OF FASHION GIANTS
FASHION
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Graphic Designer & Illustrator Gabriella Mansour 68
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THE ART OF IMPERFECTION
Top Buffalo Exchange Jacket Melania Wowk Pants IAMNOVAZO Shoes Vintage Gloves Vintage Bonnet IAMNOVAZO FASHION
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Model Fiona Bollinger Photographer Kat Kallopoulos Stylist Ashi Schwartz Makeup Brooke Harry Hair Liberty Ackerman Nails Lea DeCicco Graphic Designer Yukti Poddar
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Top Miaou Corset IAMNOVAZO Belt Beacon’s Closet Pants Ashi Schwartz Boots Steve Madden
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TRAGEDY AT THE HANDS OF FASHION
FASHION
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Model Julianna Lombardo Photographer Holland Rainwater Stylist Shelby Leeming Makeup Ashley Simas Hair Jennie Segedin Nails Lizzie Lee Graphic Designer Erin Black
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Jewelry Nabs and Babs Bracelet Shop Amado Necklace Teddy Fesh Chain Sourced by Shelby Leeming Dress Urban Outfitters Shoes I AM GIA 81
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BLACK HAIR LOVE
Model Jewel Surphlis Denim Set Jada Regalia Shoes Vintage Earrings Shop Amado Bracelet Shop Amado
First Page: Model Cristal Hernandez Dress Es Veganza Skirt Vintage Shoes Vintage BEAUTY, WELLNESS & RELATIONSHIPS
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Model Riza Baah Top Nkenglack Nchopa Skirt Brandy Melville 88
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Jewelry Beacon’s Closet Top Nkenglack Nchopa Shorts Jaded London Shoes Nike Air
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Photographer Dahlia Mallebranche Stylists Aaliyah Howard, Ifedinachi Obi Makeup Brooke Harry Hair Andrea Saliva, Sarah Brifo Graphic Designer Ashley Morris
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Top Lilach Porges Jewelry Beacon’s Closet
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Top Stussy Necklace Vintage 96
Top Helmut Lang Jacket Faranaz Colton Necklace Vintage AT A CROSSROADS
Photographer Madison Smith Set Designer Jinoh Kim Stylist Alexa Torrejon
BEAUTY, WELLNESS & RELATIONSHIPS
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Model Thomas Mauro Beret Vintage Top INC Vest Vintage Skirt REWARD if FOUND Shoes Dr. Martens
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Model Tyler McFarlane Top Calvin Klein Vest Adidas Skirt Beacon’s Closet Pants Evisu Shoes Zara 99
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Makeup Alyssa Thomas, Roshita Sajnani Hair Jennie Segedin Nails Katherine Aguilar Graphic Designer Lily Kotz
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Graphic Designer Michal Fass 102
THE PRICE TO BE BEAUTIFUL
Model Jae Tibak
Photographer Nafisah Crumity Stylist Kargine Chery Makeup Jae Tibak Hair Jae Tibak Nails Katherine Aguilar BEAUTY, WELLNESS & RELATIONSHIPS
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Dress Valentina Li Jewelry Flying Solo Shoes Pleaser Shoes
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Dress SASHA LOOCHI Jewelry Flying Solo
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REBIRTH BEFORE YOU’RE DEAD
BEAUTY, WELLNESS & RELATIONSHIPS
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Draping Maya Davila 108
Model Hannah Riling Photographer Allison Simms Stylist Maya Davila Makeup Alyssa Thomas Hair Jennie Segedin Nails Lizzie Lee Graphic Designer Lily Kotz
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Dress Abbie Grace Veil Sourced by Maya Davila
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Dress Kedem Sasson
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ENTANGLEMENT
BEAUTY, WELLNESS & RELATIONSHIPS
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Model Porscha Chau Top Emily Cha Pants Morgan Grabarz Shoes ASOS Belt Amaya Jade
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Model Willow Adler Top Amaya Jayde High Neck Bolero Morgan Grabarz Pants Emily Cha Shoes Jeffrey Campbell
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Photographer Allison Simms Stylist Maya Davila Styling Assistant Shelby Leeming Makeup Jenna Manfredi, Lavani Laishram Hair Liberty Ackerman Nails Lea DeCicco Graphic Designer Ana Lac
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Dress Mariah Does Harness Beacon’s Closet Bungee Cord Sourced by Maya Davila
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Dress Mariah Does Top Mariah Does Belt Beacon’s Closet Shoes Steve Madden Bungee Cord Sourced by Maya Davila
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Brought to you by the Student Activities Fund Special Thanks to Contra Studios The Algonquin Hotel Thomas Group Printing Beacon’s Closet
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SPECIAL THANKS
re-birth noun the process of being reincarnated or born again.