Blush Magazine - Spring 2015

BLUSH P U B L I C AT I O N

SPRING 2015

Mobile Matchmakers

PLUS-SIZE SEX APPEAL KOREAN SKIN CARE

BEHIND THE SHADES

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BLUSH M A G A Z I N E Rebecca Aschen EDITOR IN CHIEF Creative Director: Jordyn Ferriss Senior Editors: Brittany Burgos, Avanti Dalal Photography Director: Collins Nai Art Director: Vivian Zhen Beauty Director: Alexandria Cott Fashion Director: Aaron Valentic Web Director: Mikayla Madigan Fashion Writer: Erik DeFruscio Beauty Writer: Cassandra Shaffer Health Writer: Kathryn Farrell Senior Photo Editor: Ashley Naftaly Senior Designer: Joyce Xu Advertising Sales Manager: Vivian Tai Online Beauty Writer: Liana Prinzevalli Online Fashion Writer: Kimberly Larco Assistant Web Editor: Michaela Bartlett Social Media Editors: Christina Buscarino, Sarah Fielding, Nicole Glickman Contributing Men’s Editor: Steven Rodriguez Contributors: Samantha Ayala, Briana Badome, Brittany Barbarite, Melinda Batista, Shannon Blanks, Monica Boylan, Kristina Cappuccitti, Nicole Druzhinsky, Ruby Frei, Rachel Gray, Caroline Johnson, Elisa Johnson, Roberto Johnson, Emily Keough, Caroline Knizeski, Angela Ko, Daniel Marcella, Sarah Michelson, Lexy Monaco, Ciara Moore, Sullian Pinnock, Chelsea Smith, Reagan Sullivan, Kyle Ursin, Samantha Valez Laura Hatmaker ADVISOR

Spring 2015 LUXE A PEEK INSIDE A C U RATED COLLECTION OF C L O THIN G THAT MOST OF US COU L D O N LY DREAM O F.

Real Sex in the Media

PUT A SPRING IN YOUR WORKOUT

F O RG E T OV E R PR ICED GYM MEM B ER SHIPS. A M P UP YOUR W O RKO UT R E G IM E N W ITH THE N EW E S T TE CH G E AR.

N IP S L IPS ARE N O L O N G ER O F F -L IM ITS .

A Guide to Dressing Your Boyfriend G O N E ARE THE DAYS WHERE YO U ’RE EM BARRAS S ED TO S TRO L L ARO U N D WITH YO U R S WEATPAN TS C L AD BF.

◄ANGELO KO

MAJOR: AMC HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, CA FAVORITE SHADE TO WEAR: MAKE UP FOR EVER Rouge Artist Natural in N9 Copper Pink ONE THING PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU: I have a dangerous love affair with Taco Bell. READING NOW: The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle

by Haruki Murakami LISTENING TO: Breathe by Télépopmusik CAREER ASPIRATIONS: Brand strategy for beauty brands

AARON VALENTIC►

MAJOR: AMC HOMETOWN: Pittsburgh, PA FAVORITE SHADE TO WEAR: Black, White or Navy ONE THING PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU: I’ve been studying French for 6.5 years and going! READING NOW: A Year of Magical Thinking

by Joan Didion LISTENING TO: Spotify, on repeat (I’m trying to broaden my musical horizons) CAREER ASPIRATIONS: Editor-In-Chief or Creative Director of a fashion magazine.

CONTRIBUTORS ▼AVANTI DALAL

MAJOR: AMC HOMETOWN: Mumbai, India FAVORITE SHADE TO WEAR: Of late, Marsala. But mainstays include tan, powder blue and a punchy red bag. ONE THING PEOPLE WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU: I enjoy scuba diving and have diver certification! READING NOW: As usual, an array of seemingly random things; Save Me the Waltz by Zelda Fitzgerald, the February issue of Marie Claire and How to Be a Parisian Wherever You Are by Caroline De Maigret and her tres chic friends. LISTENING TO: Taylor Swift’s 1989 is on repeat.

I’m also on an Ed Sheeran, Kodaline and Ingrid Michaelson kick. CAREER ASPIRATIONS: Content creation, whether it be at a magazine, PR company or digital marketing agency.

Letter from the editor

A

n inherent period of renewal, springtime has brought about a great deal of change, not only for myself, in taking on the role as Editor-In-Chief, but also on a much greater societal scale.

This issue served as a medium for exploration, our entire staff collaborating to magnify all areas of untapped interest in our community. We took a peek “behind the shades”, and analyzed thought-provoking topics such as gender stigmas, societal norms, and sex-pectations.

Enough to make you blush, huh? Speaking of blush, within this issue we mused over new cosmetics releases, discussed spring beauty trends, and made some foundation shade evaluations.

And in the spirit of talking about taboo topics, we carried this conversation over to the fashion realm, elevating this season’s style selections, far past the typical florals and overdone pastels pallets.

Regardless of which story got you going, I hope we have taken you out of our blackand-white world, and into the grey area on the spectrum.

Rebecca Aschen Editor in Chief

BEAUTY NEWS

By Shannon Blanks

MAC DEFINES BEAUTY MAC is launching their new Spring 2015 Collection, titled MAC Is Beauty on March 26th.

Deemed one of the most anticipated MAC makeup collections of this season, there’s a lot to look forward to! There will be four new eyeshadows in shimmery pastel shades. The popular Fluidline eyeliners will come in 16 new shades, as well.

Lips will be moving with 12 new colors in a variety of finishes—nobody is going to leave the MAC store empty handed after this release. The three new brushes are going to ensure your makeup applies flawlessly, and the three new nail colors will make for the perfect finishing touch.

ESSIE WELCOMES MINKOFF Rebecca Minkoff has already made waves with her incredible designs, but things are getting serious; Rebecca has teamed up with Essie to become their first ever global color designer. Her role will be to curate colors for each season, allowing her to bring her eye for color into a new medium.

The first six-piece collection has already been created for Spring 2015. Inspired by the vibrant hues of flowers, Flowerista includes a selection of nudes, gunmetal grey, bright blues, and a hot pink—perfect for the spring!

With Essie already having 900 shades to choose from, this new collaboration will only add to their already incredible palette. Go and get some new, stunning spring shades when they launch!

BEYONCÉ CLEANS UP HER ACT 22 Days Nutrition is a plant-based home delivery meal service based on the concept that it takes 21 days to make or break a habit, and on the 22nd day you are well on your way to re-shaping them.

Beyoncé recently partnered with her personal trainer, Marco Borges, to launch his 22-day plan, after she and husband Jay-Z completed it themselves back in 2013. The service offers three different meal plans, ranging from one to three meals a day being delivered. According to the website, all of the meals are gluten-free, soy-free, and organic. Each meal is “a perfect balance of protein, carbohydrates and fat with limited salt and sugar.”

HAIR: Hask Essentials Leave in Conditioner, American Crew Pomade FACE: Illamasaqua Blusher in Hussy LIPS: Stila Convertible Color in Sweet Pea

Fleur

POWER Photography by Ashley Naftaly

MODELED BY Chelsea Smith MAKEUP BY Emily Keough HAIR BY Kristina Cappuccitti STYLED BY Collins Nai

HAIR: Paul Mitchell Sculpting Foam Mousse EYES: Make Up For Ever Aqua Black Liner LIPS: MAC Lipstick in Candy Yum Yum, NYX Macaron Lippie in Rose

HAIR: Splat Hair Chalk in Violet Sky EYES: House of Glam Dolls Lashes in Flutter Doll, Chaos Highlighter in Electric FACE: Chaos Highlighter in La Vie En Rose

HAIR: Chroma Lights Temporary Color Spray in Metallic Fuchsia EYES: Clinique High Impact Mascara LIPS: Illamasqua Lip Crayon in Media

BEAUTY

Shades for Sunny Days

By Samantha Ayala

Everyone is anxiously waiting and preparing for sunnier days. And when those welcomed warmer days come around, the sunglasses go on! Every season brings new frames and shade silhouettes, so it is important to stay up to date and familiarize yourself with all of the new styles that we will be seeing this season.

ROUNDED ELEGANCE Vintage Round Sunglasses, $9.90, available at Oasap.com.

Round frames have certainly been seen before, but they are are back at it once again. 1960s and 1970s inspired sunglasses are the perfect accessory to make an entire outfit feel vintage. Besides, it’s great to take a break from all the bulky, squared frames and curve into a different direction. Keeping it hippy never looked this good.

S T A T E M E N T- M A K E R S Dita’s Hurricane, $375, available at Dita.com.

It’s time to get risky and start playing around with some daring details with these fancifully designed sunglasses. It’s obvious that these types of frames add an edge, but they also have an unexpected whimsy and sophistication.

N AT U R A L L U X E Linda Farrow Luxe, $1,130, available at Shopbop.com.

It’s not just about the look of these sunglasses, but also, it’s about the quality. They have a high-quality finish and are constructed with natural materials, such as bamboo, gold and leather. In conjunction with the quality composition, these shades are kept modern, but with an elegant twist. It’s safe to say that your money will be well spent on a product that looks one-of-a-kind and will last for years to come.

MIRRORED AND COLORED LENSES Spektre Vitesse Sunglasses, $155, available at Singer22.com. Don’t worry if your outfit is feeling a little too plain, because there are some fabulous sunglasses waiting in the wings to help inject some color back into your ensemble. Even the lenses are being given some color. It makes the sunglasses that much more interesting, as opposed to classic clear lenses. It’s time to let the sunshine through, and look at the world through rose-colored glasses.

BEAUTY

12 Products You Must Know in the

Korean Skin Care

Korean women are known for their flawless skin, so it’s no wonder that Korean bloggers talking and has the forums abuzz. The Korean skin care routine is bo lineup of many products.

Customization and selective care, dependent on individual skin type and cond There is no “one-cream-fits-all.” But with so many largely unfamiliar products breakdown of the must-have products to help introduce you to this new Korea 1. T O N E R You’re probably already familiar with toners, but be aware that Korean brands may use any of these names instead: mist, skin refiner, skin balancer, or skin hydrator.

Toner is typically used after cleansing, but it’s smart to check the product itself to see at what step it should be used. Many toners are also primarily used for hydration.

NATURE REPUBLIC ARGAN 20 ESSENTIAL TONER, $26, AVAILABLE AT AMAZON.COM.

2. F L O R A L W A T E R With its calming and moisturizing effects, this can be used as toner or a moisturizer.

THE FACESHOP NATURE’S FLORAL WATER MIST, $15, AVAILABLE AT THE FACE SHOP.

3. E S S E N C E Sometimes called treatment water, essence has a water-like consistency and is used for a specific purpose. Choose an essence based on your individual need, such as skin brightening, pore control, or skin repair.

SK-II FACIAL TREATMENT ESSENCE, $105, AVAILABLE AT SEPHORA.

4. S E R U M Serums contain a higher concentration of ingredients than essence and have a thicker consistency. They serve different purposes, such as pore tightening and antiaging.

SKIN FOOD PEACH SAKE PORE SERUM, $14, AVAILABLE AT AMAZON.COM.

5. A M P O U L E Ampoules are also targeted for specific purposes. Ampoule has a light texture and is absorbed into the skin faster than serums. Hydrating ampoules are a popular choice.

MIZON SNAIL REPAIR INTENSIVE AMPOULE, $15, AVAILABLE AT AMAZON.COM.

6. B O O S T E R Applied before the serum or essence, the booster makes the next product penetrate faster into the skin.

A’PIEU AQUA NATURE DEW DROP BOOSTER SKIN, $22, AVAILABLE AT W2BEAUTY.COM.

e Routine

By Angela Ko

n skin care has become the latest beauty phenomenon. The topic has beauty oth involved and extensive, and typically requires at least ten steps and a

dition, is at the core of the philosophy behind the Korean skin care routine. on the market, you may feel overwhelmed before you even start. Here is a an skin care routine.

7. L O T I O N S This is a light moisturizer, recommended for normal skin.

INNISFREE ROSEMARY SEBUM & PORE LOTION, $16, AVAILABLE AT EBAY.COM.

8. E M U L S I O N This is also a light moisturizer, but recommended for combination or oily skin. It has a lighter texture, while still maintaining hydrating effects. It is typically water based.

ETUDE HOUSE COLLAGEN MOISTFULL EMULSION, $15, AVAILABLE AT AMAZON.COM.

9. C R E A M This is a thicker moisturizer, containing more oil. Cream is recommended for dry skin or during winter weather.

MISSHA SUPER AQUA ULTRA WATERFULL CREAM, $28, AVAILABLE AT MISSHAUS.COM.

10 . G E L M O I S T U R I Z E R Lighter than cream and emulsion, gel moisturizers usually contain humectants like silicone and glycerin.

AMOREPACIFIC MOISTURE BOUND REFRESHING HYDRA-GEL, $100, AVAILABLE AT SEPHORA.

11. F I N I S H E R The last step in your daytime skin care routine, finisher acts as a seal for the products applied onto your skin. This is not to be confused as a replacement for primer.

SULWHASOO LUMINATURE ESSENTIAL FINISHER, $90, AVAILABLE AT US.SULWHASOO.COM.

12. S L E E P I N G M A S K The last step in your nighttime skin care routine, the sleeping mask is an overnight treatment that creates a protective seal over your skin to help your skin absorb applied products better.

LANEIGE WATER SLEEPING MASK, $23, AVAILABLE AT TARGET.

BEAUTY

HOW TO: Wearable Bed Head

Have you ever rolled out bed just a tad too late, ruining your plan to style your hair for the day ahead?

Have no fear, with wearable bed hair on trend, it’s time to embrace your messy locks— here are some tips on managing your fresh-out-of-bed hair.

By Jordyn Ferriss | Photography by Collins Nai LEXY MONACO

LONG HAIR

For those of us with long hair, a night of tossing and turning can lead to some nasty knots. Your first course of action should be to invest in a good detangler— we like Mane N Tail Detangler, which is specifically for people with longer locks.

After you tackle your knots, you’ll want to give your hair some much needed body. The perfect way to do this is with a good texturizing spray. Texturizing sprays come in many forms, from sea salt sprays to a dry-shampoo. Whichever you may prefer, just spritz some into your roots and “fluff” your hair up to bring it back to life. If you want that perfectly tousled bed head, you can spray it all over your hair and do a little hair flip to maximize body.

SHORT HAIR

Short hair can be a blessing, but also a curse; your cut seems to use less shampoo and it is more manageable, yet you can’t throw yesterday’s unwashed hair into a stealthy pony tail like your long-haired peers. If you find yourself late for class with no time to shower, we suggest to first refresh with some dry shampoo, like Not Your Mother’s Dry Shampoo, which is offered in loads of wonderful scents. Next, take advantage of the wavy texture your hair has gotten from a good night’s sleep—to quickly accentuate these waves, you can use a tiny bit of hair mousse, and apply it to your hair, delicately shaping the waves with your fingers. To define waves a bit more, take a flat iron to bigger chunks of hair, rocking the iron as you descend down the hair, leaving you with the perfect lived-in, short do.

CAROLINE KNIZESKI

MESSY BUN

The messy bun has been the go-to for so many when you’re in a rush in the morning.

But for some of us, perfecting the messy bun can be quite difficult. Who knew getting that, “I just did my hair in two seconds” look could be so hard to achieve? Well, the first step is quite obvious—to achieve the perfect messy bun, your hair should be somewhat messy. We don’t mean knotted and matted, but some sort of texture and waves can really benefit the execution of the bun. Start by gathering your hair high above your head, and twist it loosely. Next, take your hair and wrap it around itself, making a bun-like shape on the top of your head.

Secure with bobby pins, and/or a hair tie, depending on the weight of your hair and voila! Mission accomplished. Now go forth and enjoy the day with your disguised bed head. We promise we won’t tell.

BEAUTY

Striking Shade

By Melinda Batista | Illustrated by Kyle Ursin

Gorgeous women of all different skin tones diversify the world we live in today. Especially living in NYC, ethnic beauty is a palette of perfection.

The majority of women identify as either porcelain, olive, tan or deep, and with different skin tones comes different undertones. Knowing whether your undertone is warm, cool or neutral is the key to ensuring that your foundation matches your skin seamlessly. When a foundation doesn’t match the skin’s undertone, the color stands out as orange, pink or an ashen color, and looks contrived rather than natural.

One way to decide whether you are warm, cool or neutral is by looking at the veins on your wrist. If your veins have a green/olive color, then you are likely a warm tone. If your veins have a purple/blue color, then you are likely a cool tone. If your veins have neither, or a combination of both blue and green, then you are likely a neutral tone. Just as beauty comes in all different shapes and sizes, it also comes in many different colors as well.

Porcelain skin tones tend to look pink with a red hue to it, and will show a blue-cast in the veins. L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Makeup caters to all skin undertones, but they uniquely offer lighter shades in cool categories, like Alabaster. Baby pink and plum blushes add the perfect pop of color for a fair woman, and for eye shadow, you aren’t going to want to go for a neutral look. Cream-or-buff-colored shadows will wash you out. Instead, experiment with rich browns, russets, and smoky greys. When it comes to lip color, the same thing goes–avoid the light neutrals; bright reds and plums on the lips look fabulous when paired with porcelain skin.

Olive skin tones tend to look somewhat sallow due to the greenish hue that’s unique to olive skin. Neutral tones tend to work best, but experiment with warm tones as well, as you may fall somewhere in between. L’Oréal True Match has a wonderful variety of neutral tones that range from Soft Ivory to Mahogany. Peach, rose and bronze blushes will look superb on a woman with an olive skin tone. Vibrant eyeshadows like emerald green, metallic gold and sapphire will make olive skin pop, but even neutral colors will look great. As for lipsticks, any color from nude to bright red will look gorgeous on an olive-skinned woman.

es of

Stunning

Tan skin tones can range from warm to cool undertones. These women would most likely want to look into L’Oréal True Match’s warm collection of foundation, from Porcelain to Deep Golden. Apricot and mauve blushes will complement tan skin beautifully. If your natural skin tone is darker, you must try eyeshadow colors like emeralds, greens and teals. Oceanic eyeshadows will also play up the golden-goddess look and complement the bronze tones of the skin. As for lip colors, you can either go nude or go bold—vibrant pink, brick red, and creamy nude will look lovely against tan skin.

Deep skin tones tend to vary in undertone, as well. For foundation, darker skinned women can have warm, neutral or cool undertones. L’Oréal’s True Match line will certainly house a shade that works well for you, no matter the undertone of your rich skin. As for eyeshadow, saturated shades of purple and green look great against dark skin. Gold and bronze shimmering shadows will work well if you have warmer undertones to the skin, and blues and greys will look great against cool-toned skin. The best shades of lipstick for women of color will depend on the undertone. However, as a rule of thumb, the darker your complexion, the more easily you can pull off richer colors. When choosing blush, you can follow the same guidelines, as a pigmented flush will immediately bring life back into your complexion.

L’Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Makeup, $5.99, available at Target.

BEAUTY

SpringNail Trends

By Cassandra Shaffer | Photo by Ashley Naftaly Pastels for spring? Groundbreaking.

Instead of sticking to the same old colors for spring, beat the winter blues with these new nail trends that came straight from the runways of New York Fashion Week.

MESSY NAILS

Want to have some color on your nails, but don’t have the time to give yourself a full-on manicure? Luckily nails that look anything but neat are a big trend for spring.

Designers such as Rodarte, and Prabal Gurung left some color only at the cuticle by painting the model’s digits, and then removing most of the polish. Another take on this trend is marbling. To create a marbling effect, just dot on at least two different colors on the nail and swirl them together with a toothpick.

BRUSHSTROKE

This effortless look probably takes all of three seconds flat. The trend, which could be found on the runways of ICB and Prabal Gurung, involves thin brushstrokes along the side of the nail. The look can be as bold, or as subtle as you like. To achieve an extra thin line, try using the tip of a pencil or an old eyeliner brush.

M E TA L L I C T O U C H E S

Metallic polish never goes out of style, so try experimenting with shiny shades this spring. Metallic foils were used in the Kenzo show to give the model’s nails that flashy touch. In the Creatures of the Wild show, models were outfitted with a shiny French mani. Whatever the pattern, adding a touch of metallic to your nails will certainly brighten up those rainy spring days.

N E G AT I V E S PA C E

Show some skin this spring by leaving part of your nail bare. This hot trend was seen everywhere from Dion Lee and Charlotte Ronson to Delpozo. Experiment with patterns such as half-moons or stripes, and by varying the colors. For graphic results, try a bold neon shade to really show off this trend.

BEAUTY

New Age Foun

All strong and stable projects start from the ground up, so why not use the best base for your face? The type of foundation you use can counteract the troublesome discoloring, minimize textural concerns, and conceal imperfections that can sometimes throw off the balance of your skin’s overall radiance. Here are some of our favorite foundation formulations— one of which will certainly fit your skin’s need.

FULL COVERAGE COMPLEXION

Make Up For Ever HD Invisible Cover Foundation, $42, available at Sephora.

Stand in the spotlight with this medium-to-full coverage foundation that still manages to flawlessly blend in, rather than leaving behind a cakey mess of product. With 25 shades, you will have no trouble finding a color that will match your skin perfectly, leaving your skin tone looking even and flawless.

WEIGHTLESS WEAR

Urban Decay Naked Skin, $38, available at Sephora.

Weightless, oil-free, and naturally enhancing skin brighteners make this Urban Decay foundation one-of-a-kind. (Just like you!) The undetectable, lightweight formula sits beautifully on the skin and leaves you looking fresh-faced and radiant.

PRIMED AND PERFECTED

CoverGirl 3-in-1 Foundation, $12.99, available at Ulta.

Spotless, healthy coverage that sticks around is just one step away with CoverGirl’s hydrating foundation that provides buildable coverage with its concealing properties and lasts all day, thanks to the foundation’s built in primer. Three base-layer steps, rolled into one easy product? Count us in!

ndation

By Allix Cott

M A R V E L O U S LY M A T T I F Y I N G

Laura Mercier Silk Crème Foundation, $43, available at Sephora.

Don’t let pesky oil breakthroughs ruin another day’s work spent in front of the mirror. Oil-free liquid foundation is a must for oily-skinned babes, but most formulations tend to be thick and uncomfortable. Laura Mercier’s foundation, however, is creamy and blendable, but still manages to eliminate that unwanted, oily shine.

MOISTURE RICH

Revlon With Softflex Colorstay Makeup, $9, available at Ulta.

The moisturizing ingredients in this nourishing foundation kick out frustratingly flaky skin from your morning makeup routine.

Don’t let dry skin sabotage your perfectly applied makeup— thanks to Revlon’s highly acclaimed, budget friendly Colorstay foundation, your impeccable look will last all day long.

C U S H I O N C O M PA C T

Pür Minerals Air Perfection CC Cushion Compact Foundation, $38, available at Ulta.

As lightweight as the sponge itself, this new complexion perfector provides natural coverage, thanks to the compacts innovative liquid-dispensing cushion. The unique, mousse-like texture feels lighter than air and leaves your skin dewy and perfectly hydrated thanks to the foundation’s palm-based formula and botanical ingredients.

Sephora Collection Pro Small Stippling Brush, $32, available at Sephora.

LIFESTYLE

Revamp Your Resolutions: Spring Recharge

By Nicole Druzhinsky

As we prepare ourselves for the new season, many of us are coming upon the realization that those bright, sparkly New Year’s resolutions we set out to fulfill aren’t really being accomplished. What happened? Typically, New Year’s resolutions start out full force the first few weeks or so, but this force falters once reality hits and one can’t help but feel like it was all just too much at once. If you feel this way, don't worry, because you’re not the only one.

It is important to not bite off more than you can chew—successful resolutions are usually small changes that can fit around your already established lifestyle.

Here are some helpful tips to get you charged and ready to get restarted: K E E P A J O U R N A L: Keeping a journal will allow you to be accountable for your actions and track your patterns. If you’re interested in eating healthier this year, keeping a food journal is a great way to track your food intake and notice eating patterns, such as eating more at night out of boredom or stress. Many studies show that people who track their food intake are more successful in reaching their goals because they can see what works or what doesn't work for their bodies.

D R I N K W A T E R: Water is essential to our bodily functions, and it is important that we consume a large amount of it on a daily basis. It helps regulate body temperature and keeps skin supple and moisturized. Since keeping track of water activity is not that exciting, a convenient tracking app is just what you need. Waterlogged (iPhone users) and Water Your Body (for Android users) keep track of your daily intake, send reminder notifications for you to log your drinks, and are great for motivation!

S T A Y A C T I V E: If you don’t have much time for hardcore exercise, simply walking a little bit each day will do wonders for your body! This simple activity triggers endorphins, promotes relaxation, prevents anxiety and depression and even limits disease risk. Just going for a 20-minute walk in the morning after breakfast, or at night after dinner is an easy way to de-stress yourself. Pacer (for iPhone users) tracks your steps, like a built-in pedometer, and lets you set your own goals and customized plan. Similarly, Charity Miles (for iPhone and Android users) allows you to track your daily activities and lets you choose the charity you want to earn money for through your movement. There’s few things better than being active and doing a good deed at the same time.

T H E B U D D Y S Y S T E M: Some people are better off doing things alone, but many people thrive best within a support system. It can be much easier to reach your goals when you have your best friends to lean on for support, motivation, and help.

Moreover, having them around serves as a constant reminder as to why you want to reach your goals and what made you start them in the first place. Find a buddy who wants to make similar healthy changes as you do and pair up. It’ll turn your goals into a fun adventure.

LIFESTYLE

Put a Spring in Your Workout

By Katie Farrell

As we enter the year of 2015, even the fitness industry is jumping on the wearable technology trend, developing accessories to assist in tracking workouts. Each of the following devices tracks exercise, steps, and calories burned, and measures the user’s sleep patterns and quality. So, which one is right for you?

WHAT: Jawbone Up Move PRICE: $49.99, available at jawbone.com FEATURES: Wirelessly syncs via Bluetooth to the UP app and allows you to post your progress through your social media accounts. The app includes a food log to track calories and nutrients in your daily diet. Set personal goals and connect with your family and other Jawbone users along your fitness journey for support.

W H AT S E T S J A W B O N E U P M O V E A PA R T ?

Jawbone Up Move syncs up to your computer or mobile device and compiles all of your statistics. A “Smart Coach” then provides personalized suggestions, to improve your mobility, physical activity and sleep patterns. Jawbone Up Move is your very own personal trainer for a fraction of the cost!

WHAT: Nike Fuel Band SE PRICE: $79, available at nike.com FEATURES: Available on both iPhone and Android phones. Users can not only track their workouts, but by entering the specific workout you are participating in Nike Fuel, which aims to improve your calorie burn and physical efficiency.

W H AT S E T S N I K E F U E L B A N D A PA R T ?

The Nike Fuel Band is all about being active. Not only do you track your own progress, but you can also compare yourself to the statistics of people nationwide. Are you as active as the rest of your friends in NYC? Find out using the Nike Fuel community.

WHAT: FitBit Flex PRICE: $99.95, available at fitbit.com FEATURES: Syncs to the FitBit Mobile App wirelessly, as well as your computer, allowing you to access your progress anywhere. You can compete with friends by using the leaderboard track. Learn which friends or family member is the most active, and earn achievement badges along the way.

W H AT S E T S F I T B I T F L E X A PA R T ?

FitBit is tailored to each user’s needs and preferences.

Choose your personal goals and track your workouts step by step. FitBit can even regulate your sleep schedule with a built-in alarm that wakes up your body through subtle vibrations. It comes in a variety of fun colors, and now even fashion brands like Tory Burch are making accessories for this fitness-tracking device.

LIFESTYLE

Mobile Matchma In the 1960s, three Harvard students created a program called Operation Match. They sent out a questionnaire to 70,000 American students. It was meant to pinpoint their likes and interests, but instead it managed to create national attention, with people wondering how a computer would be able to determine their ideal match. Today online dating is bigger than ever, yet we are still asking the same question.

When online dating first made its way into mainstream culture it was seemingly reserved for an older crowd looking for marriage. There was a serious taboo surrounding the matchmaking process, and people would fabricate stories about how they met, in order to make their love stories more palatable. It appeared that online dating took the romance out of the experience and was only used by the desperate.

Today, 10 percent of people aged 18-24 and 22 percent of people aged 25-34 use online dating sites. Also, 5 percent of Americans in a committed relationship or married met their partner online.

The internet has become an integral part of our day-to-day lives, so it makes sense that we would turn to it to answer the big life questions, the biggest being, “Who should I spend the rest of my life with... or at least tonight with?” While there is a lot of pressure associated with the idea of talking to someone who we initially met online, we’re here to alleviate some of your concerns about all of the dating app mumbo-jumbo.

NAME: Tinder TARGET AGE: 18-35 BEST QUALITY: No one can message you unless you both swipe yes and match.

WORST QUALITY: Most people are just looking to hook up.

INTERESTING QUALITY: Shows if you have mutual friends on Facebook.

NAME: Grindr TARGET AGE: 18-35 BEST QUALITY: Allows gay and bisexual men to find matches in the surrounding area.

WORST QUALITY: Many feel it makes it harder to settle into a relationship.

INTERESTING QUALITY: Basically the Tinder for gay men, but it was made before Tinder.

NAME: Plenty of Fish TARGET AGE: 18+ BEST QUALITY: You can only contact users in a similar age range to yourself.

WORST QUALITY: Was hacked in 2011, with 30 million users account information stolen.

INTERESTING QUALITY: Founded in 2004, making it one of the older dating sites.

akers

By Sarah Fielding

What really goes on once you enter the world of online dating? It can be anything from creepy to average to, well... life-changing. Unfortunately, the first is common and the latter is very rare. However, you can always count on people to be creative in their creepiness. Some of the best (or rather, worst) are “Do you like the Backstreet Boys? Because my penis is larger than life.” and, “My ears are cold. Can I use your thighs as earmuffs?”

But, when the person you meet online seems at least semi-normal, the next step is to meet in person. This “date” is almost always awkward; with people realizing they can’t wait to type back the perfect response to every question. Regardless, many feel online dating is worth a try when looking for love.

Today one-third of married couples met online. Not only that, but their success rates are higher than those of couples who met offline. While it does not always end positively, the results are still better than most would assume.

With the stigma fading more every day, people aren’t as afraid to embrace online dating. Sure, online dating isn’t perfect, but there’s something in it for everyone—if not just to kill the curiosity and get the urge out of your system.

NAME: OKCupid TARGET AGE: 18+, but specifically for 30-49 year olds BEST QUALITY: A site for finding serious relationships, while still being free.

WORST QUALITY: Hard to find real people in it for the long run.

INTERESTING QUALITY: This site is owned by Match.com.

NAME: Coffee Meets Bagel TARGET AGE: 18-35 BEST QUALITY: Match has to have a mutual friend with you.

WORST QUALITY: You are not able to search for matches on your own.

INTERESTING QUALITY: Sends one match a day at noon.

NAME: Tastebuds TARGET AGE: 18-35 BEST QUALITY: Can discover great music and meet interesting people.

WORST QUALITY: Can become more of a chat room than a dating site.

INTERESTING QUALITY: Connects users based on their music interests.

LIFESTYLE

THE BLEND TREND

By Samantha Valez | Photography by Daniel Marcella

If you haven’t ever blended your food into fantastically fresh concoctions, spring is the time to start. The smoothie trend has been widely popular recently—especially seen in the surge of green smoothies. They allow you to introduce new nutrientrich foods into your diet that you otherwise might not find appealing. FIT student Jacqueline Lammert says, “I don’t eat fruits or vegetables; no bananas, oranges, kale, and such, but when blended, they’re tasty and you forget you’re eating so healthy.”

Green ingredients such as kale and spinach are rich in vitamins A, C and K, plus they’re filled with iron and calcium. Additionally, adding fruit sweetens the deal, and provides body-boosting vitamins and minerals. Aside from the health benefits, these concoctions are colorful and refreshing. So go ahead, get creative, and drink up. ◄ S P A N K I N G

S T R A W B E R R Y Dehydrated shredded coconut, contains iron + Strawberries, fends off wrinkles + Yogurt, contains immune-system boosting probiotics.

A L L U R I N G ► A P P L E Green apple, helps hair growth + Spinach, rich in antioxidants + Ginger, helps digestion. ◄B E R R Y L I C I O U S

Raspberries, promotes healthy and glowing skin + Blueberries, prevents memory loss + Strawberries, anti-aging benefits.

T A K E S T W O ► T O M A N G O Banana, supports cardiovascular health + Mango, clears up the skin + Blueberry, nutures brain health.

FASHION NEWS

By Kimberly Larco

EAST MEETS WEST This spring, the Met Museum’s Costume Institute will bring in fashion lovers from across the city to witness the fusion of Eastern and Western cultures that has created fashion masterpieces.

China: Through The Looking Glass will illustrate the prominent impact of Chinese art and film on Western fashion designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Roberto Cavalli and Paul Poiret. The two disparate cultures will be brought together to show 130 couture, avant-garde, and ready-to-wear pieces—Chinese costumes, paintings, porcelains and films will be on display. The organic fusion of two different hemispheres is explained by artistic director Wong Kar-wai: “As Buddhist scripture says, ‘In the sky, there is no distinction of east and west.’” Don’t miss China: Through the Looking Glass opening on May 7; the exhibition will be on display until August 16.

SRING BAGS WITH A TWIST Forget your standby black purse, for spring has finally arrived! On the spring 2015 runways, brands such as Alice + Olivia, Libertine, Kate Spade and Moschino paired outfits with quirky, novelty bags in nearly every shape you can imagine—a high-heeled shape, hot pink purse, a bejeweled skull clutch, a flower pot crossbody, and a wicker clamshell shoulder bag were just some of this shapes sparking discussion. The possibilities are endless, and how easy is it to spice up any outfit with a fun purse? Check out Asos.com for some reasonably priced alternatives, such as a delicious-looking sundae purse or a majestic unicorn bag.

BECOME CINDERLLA IN REAL LIFE As children we played dress up, donning our sparkly blue Cinderella dresses and glass slippers. And, just as we thought there was no hope of slipping back into those tiny slippers, Disney made our dreams come true yet again!

They have teamed up with 11 designers to recreate the iconic shoes worn by our favorite princesses. With the European release of Cinderella, Disney collaborated with many prominent designers, including Manolo Blahnik, Jimmy Choo, Christian Louboutin, and Charlotte Olympia to reimagine the legendary glass slipper. The collection of shoes was displayed in the Cinderella exhibition at the Berlin Film Festival, at the same location where Cinderella premiered. But the shoes are not only for glass cases and ogling eyes—you can purchase your own adult Cinderella shoes at Saks Fifth Avenue and become a magical princess in real life.

FA S H I O N

Out of the Shade, Into the Hue

By Steven Rodriguez

As men, we tend to use our clothing to express our pride and reflect our egos. For whatever reason, be it insecurity or sexual restraints, most men refrain from wearing multiple colors, bold prints, and unconventional patterns. For many guys, its just simply too confusing to put together. The key is to create a story or visualize an inspirational image and run with it. Each individual piece has something to say and when men work to break stereotypes and gender roles, gaining the confidence to string together a vibrant style story, they can then have the freedom to experiment with their style.

Here’s a sample of the wonders a few unexpected colors and patters can work, with a little imagination: This ombre shirt, combined with the fresh coral trousers, and a color-blocked shoe, then finished off with black-and-white striped socks and a brown fedora, tells a story of a man who lives in the city and appreciates a good soy cappuccino while reading his newspaper in Central Park on a breezy spring day.

See how beautifully this lifestyle story can translate into an exciting spring ensemble? We urge you stylish guys to test the waters and experiment with storytelling and style.

FA S H I O N

The Guide to Dressing Your Boyfriend

By Mikayla Madigan

1 . G I V E T H E M T I M E : Whether you’ve been dating for two months or two years, it’s going to take time for the idea of changing wardrobes to sink in. They won’t want to spend the money, lay off the sweatpants, or waste time at the mall. Instead, make suggestions at appropriate times. If he has an interview or a formal event, or if you’re at the mall for a movie, subtly ask if he’d like a new shirt for the occasion or stop in a store. Over time he will come to realize it’s time to switch those sweatpants out for denim.

2 . L E T H I M P I C K F I R S T : Picking things off the rack and forcing them onto him will not get you anywhere. Guys pay more attention to looking and feeling good, as compared to looking like he’s straight off the runway. At this stage, these new clothes are foreign to him.

Have him pick pieces based on qualities like color, how they feel on, and the style of the items.

As you both learn what he likes, narrow it down to what’s actually stylish and what’s not. Put things together and have him try them on. He will feel confident because he picked out his new clothes for himself and will come to you when he needs help in the future. He totally needs your guidance more than he will admit so be his support system!

3 . B A S I C S A N D F U N D A M E N T A L S : After all the picking and sorting, you can now take charge of the shopping situation. As the stylish one in the relationship (but not for long), you know the basic pieces that everyone should have in his or her closet. Items like a blazer, sleek black pants, solid color tees, stylish jacket, and everyday denim are key items that can make or break a look. They change an outfit from occasion to occasion easily.

4 . A C C E S S O R I Z E : Yes, guys need accessories too! Accessories are always the finishing touches to a look, but for men, they should be kept minimal and universal. Nice shoes, for example, are an obvious necessity, but also an opportunity to spice up a plain ensemble— something that can be casual, but not just another pair of sneakers. Also a belt, scarves, ties, and even boxer briefs and socks can help complete an outfit.

5 . T H E F I N A L L O O K : Now it’s time for an intimate fashion show. Dump the bags; lay out all the new clothes, and play dress up with your Ken Doll. It’s a fun and productive way to show him what to do with his new tools. If you let the bags sit untouched, they will stay that way.

Have fun and let him show off is new look! Over time he’ll develop a more personal sense of style and will have the tools to expand his wardrobe even further.

Trend Focus

FA S H I O N

By Christina Buscarino

The weather is finally changing and it’s time to flip our wardrobes.

With any new season comes new inspiration from the previous fashion shows, and fresh styles options in all of our favorite stores. So what looks should we be keep on our radar?

THE MINIMALIST The minimalist trend can look simple upon completion, but can be surprisingly tricky to execute. Try layering your look with long sleek silhouettes this spring. Stick to natural colors, cool grays, and muted pastels. Long duster coats and culottes are key components of this trend.

L TO R: Tonic Checked Duster Jacket, $110, available at Topshop.

Sleevless Ponte Jacket, $80, available at Topshop.

Tonic Checked Tailored Joggers, $75, available at Topshop.

Leather Crossover Platform Wedge, 79.90, available at Zara.

M I L I TA R Y M O M E N T Inspiration from military uniforms can give any look a casual edge. This season, try out light, boxy jackets, and cargo pants. With inspiration from Marc Jacobs on the runway, you’ll being seeing a lot of khaki greens and utilitarian pockets on the streets.

L TO R: Buttoned Short Army Jacket, $99.90, available at Zara.

Wide Brim Fedora Hat, $52, available at Topshop.

Birkenstock Arizona, $124.95, available at Birkenstock.com Relaxed Utility Trousers, $68, available at Topshop.

1970’S Kick your 90s gear out of the closet—you need to make room for a new decade. Fashion repeats itself, and it’s time for a bit of the 70s to make its reappearance. You may have thought that flares were gone forever, but they are surely back in action this season. Add bits of this trend into your style with retro stripes and suede pieces.

L TO R: Wide-leg Denim Jeans, $59.90, available at Zara.

Border Print Blouse, $59.90, available at Zara.

Smock Leather Mule Clogs, $90, available at Topshop.

Ribbed Top, $29.95, available at H&M.

LEOTARD Saga NYC FUR COAT Maison Margiela SUNGLASSES Dior PANTS American Apparel

LUXE Photography by Collins Nai

MODELED BY Elisa Johnson STYLED BY Roberto Johnson MAKEUP BY Jordyn Ferriss HAIR BY Kristina Cappuccitti PHOTO ASSISTANT Ruby Frei STYLING ASSISTANT Sullian Pinnock

BUSTIER Va Bien TROUSERS Big Park

DRESS Sterling King HEELS Maison Margiela

DRESS Sterling King

CHOKER Sterling King TOP Saga NYC BRACELET Cartier

FUR TOP Elanur Erdogan TROUSERS Sterling King SHOES Manolo Blahnik

DRESS Saga NYC BAG Chanel LEGGINGS Chanel

DRESS Saga NYC LEGGINGS Chanel BOOTS Chanel

Style

FIT STREET

By Monica Boylan | Photography by Lexy Monaco

NAME Alicia French MAJOR Fashion Design WHERE ARE YOU FROM? New Jersey WHAT ARTICLE OF CLOTHING MAKES YOU FEEL SEXIEST? “I feel sexiest in a slip dress because I like the way it falls and the simplicity of the silk and lace.”

NAME Jin Yu MAJOR Accessory Design WHERE ARE YOU FROM? Korea WHAT ARTICLE OF CLOTHING MAKES YOU FEEL SEXIEST? “I feel sexiest in sheer clothing or crop tops. I find it sexy showing a little skin.”

NAME Campbell Gee MAJOR FMM WHERE ARE YOU FROM? San Francisco WHAT ARTICLE OF CLOTHING MAKES YOU FEEL SEXIEST? “I feel sexiest in skinny jeans. I used to be hesitant to wear them, but now I like to embrace my curves and show off my shape.”

NAME Justin Etienne MAJOR Production Management WHERE ARE YOU FROM? Brooklyn WHAT ARTICLE OF CLOTHING MAKES YOU FEEL SEXIEST? “I feel like every male should have a trench coat to bring out their outfit. I like to mix high end and street wear to make me stand out.”

NAME Sarah Didion MAJOR FMM WHERE ARE YOU FROM? Maryland WHAT ARTICLE OF CLOTHING MAKES YOU FEEL SEXIEST? “I feel sexiest in high waisted jeans because they show off the curves in my body and accentuate my small waist.”

NAME Akia Merrit MAJOR FMM WHERE ARE YOU FROM? Miami WHAT ARTICLE OF CLOTHING MAKES YOU FEEL SEXIEST? “I feel sexiest in oversized shirts.

I feel like they have a sexy element, while still keeping the masculinity there.”

NAME Jiyoun Han MAJOR FMM WHERE ARE YOU FROM? South Korea WHAT ARTICLE OF CLOTHING MAKES YOU FEEL SEXIEST? “I feel sexiest in pants that show my body shape.”

NAME Lauren Ciaccio MAJOR AMC WHERE ARE YOU FROM? Poughkeepsie, NY WHAT ARTICLE OF CLOTHING MAKES YOU FEEL SEXIEST? “I feel sexiest in skirts. Mini skirts are typically sexy and you can do anything with them.”

FA S H I O N

Shades of Grey: Wear

By Rachel Gray

Typically, when the flowers bloom in spring, we believe our wardrobe has to bloom with bright colors as well. This doesn’t have to be the case. A chic alternative to black, the color grey can be worn all year round and is a stellar neutral to transition you from day-to-night looks this spring.

▲FLORALS

▲CULOTTES

A floral print is always a go-to when the warm weather comes around. This year, try a subtle grey floral print in any part of your outfit—mix and match with a solid, to make the print the center of attention.

GREY SMART CULOTTES, $70, AVAILABLE AT RIVER ISLAND.

CAMEO ALONE TONIGHT DRESS, $240, AVAILABLE AT NASTY GAL.

A new silhouette is here for spring, and it’s a far cry from our standby skinny jeans—bring on the culottes! A grey pair is the perfect way to test the waters with this trend.

ring Grey in Spring ◄ JUMPSUIT

Wearing a grey jumpsuit or romper in the spring looks flawless. This effortless outfit would look amazing with a colored ballet flat or bright bag to complete the look.

CREPE D-RING JUMPSUIT, $115, AVAILABLE AT TOPSHOP.

▲ H AT

Take a risk, and go for that floppy hat. Grey is the shade to try out the trend with this spring. You’re going to look on-point while soaking up the springtime sun.

MOSSIMO DARK GREY FLOPPY HAT, $17, AVAILABLE AT TARGET.

BOOTIES►

No matter where you’re going this spring, don’t forget to strut in with some grey booties.

These extremely versatile shoes will pair well with practically anything in your closet—the perfect transition piece for spring.

CLASSIC NEWBURY, $250, AVAILABLE AT RAG & BONE.

FA S H I O N

Heels

Head Over

By Briana Badome | Illustrated by Kyle Ursin

Wearing high heels brings with it a sense of empowerment to a woman. Taking those first steps after slipping into a pair of pumps can carry with it an air of confidence that simply cannot be matched. The thing about wearing high heels is that they have the ability to transform you and make you feel that you are a force to be reckoned with.

This is because wearing any sort of heel elongates your legs and just oozes sex appeal. As an added bonus, your pumps not only make your legs appear longer, they also make your entire stature that little bit longer by improving your posture. A woman should feel in charge in her favorite pair of shoes, so that she feels like she can run the world.

Different types of high heels can create a certain type of look and generate a certain kind of feeling. The kitten heel, for example, with its smaller, more delicate heel, allows the wearer feel both comfortable and demure. The pump has a thicker heel that is a few inches off the ground, and is great for spicing up your work wear. They can also serve as an outfit gamechanger for a night out on the town. The stiletto is the epitome of a power shoe, providing the ultimate sexiness, while making your legs look longer, sleeker and more sensual. Whether it be a pair of wedges, ankle-strap shoes, or sling-backs, high heels have the power to make you stand a little taller—just that much closer to reaching the top.

FA S H I O N

What Does Your Lingerie Say About You?

By Michaela Bartlett | Photography by Blair Conner | Modeled by Ciara Moore

EVERY WOMAN HAS A DISTINCT SENSE OF STREET STYLE, BUT HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED WHAT YOUR LINGERIE STYLE SAYS ABOUT YOU? ARE YOU A MINIMALIST, AMOROUS, OR A VIXEN? LET’S FIND OUT.

Do you find yourself gravitating towards a leisurely cotton bralette with matching panties, maybe even a little lace to spice things up, but not too exotic? Your lingerie is sexy, but not too sexy—more on the safe side of the spectrum.

When browsing for lingerie, is it a toss up between lacy push-up bra and a flirty bustier?

You love all the colorful options, but will likely opt for your stand-by soft pink or pastel lavender. You adore the embellishment details and intricate lace options?

If this sounds like you, you’re a M I N I M A L I S T.

If this is true, you’re A M O R O U S.

You’re the girl next door. You want to sex it up for your significant other, yet not go too over the top.

When it comes to your lingerie you know exactly what you want: a lace-up corset in a rich, oxblood red, midnight blue, or deep black. You will pair this look with thigh-high black stockings.

That is all.

If this applies to you, you’re a V I X E N.

You’re dominant and powerful. You love to play You’re extremely games, but manage to passionate. You respect always remain in charge. classic romantic gestures Sometimes in love. You are very playful you don’t always in all aspects of life. play by the rules.

Remember, your sense of style doesn’t just stop with what you wear on the outside—what’s underneath matters too.

PERSPECTIVE

Grey Area: Sexuality in the Modern World

By Aaron Valentic

Picture this—you’re sitting on a subway train among other silent passengers, resting in your own little world of tranquility, when all of a sudden, you hear two women fighting about morals. Both women are African American immigrants, and presumably sisters. One of the sisters, standing with her legs spread, attempting to balance her weight on the moving subway, is reprimanded by her sister for her “provocative” stance, claiming she stands “closed-legged,” and that “sin is sin.”

Essentially, in the most passive way possible, this woman was calling her sister a slut. As this incident occurred right next to me one late evening on the E train, it got me thinking about the modern world’s outlook on the typically taboo subject of sex. Yes, one would think that in the year 2015, most people would be very open to the topic of sex, and it is true that we have come very far on many different sexual platforms; however, many people still have a prudish view on sex and regard it with negativity or censorship.

The topic of sex has come a long way over the past century, starting from slow beginnings to vast revolutions, reaching all levels of society. From privileged-educated women getting their right to vote in the 1910s, to the famously swinging Jazz Age of the 1920s, to the Sexual Revolution of the 1960s, to the same-sex marriage battles of the 2000s; the battle for sex-ual liberation has remained a turning point of the 20th century.

With all of the wonderful advancements in creating a positive image of sexuality in the modern world, there have also been countless set backs, ranging from government policies striking down plans for same-sex marriage, to restraints on what a woman can and cannot do with her own body. Growing up in a small neighborhood in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (where the majority of people around me had a very conservative, very staunch Catholic upbringing), the topic of sex was often shrouded in shame and negativity. I grew up in a Catholic household—our Chruch preached the necessity of abstinence and the removal of all “unnatural, dirty thoughts out of one’s head.” However, someone born gay, like myself, remained a constant issue.

With the topic of sex growing in popularity, especially among younger generations its beginning to lose its taboo status. With hit shows like Sex and the City and The Carrie Diaries illuminating the topic of sex among teenagers and adults, it has become acceptable to celebrate one’s own sexual liberation. Whether it be with Carrie’s sexual expertise or Samantha’s sexual cravings, it is evident that the times are changing for all sexual beings within the modern world.

Even with all of the media attention on this specific topic, and all of the unusual subtopics that coincide with the term sex, it is still a natural and human part of life—without it, there would be no humanity to speak of.

PERSPECTIVE

Inside Take on Internships

By Avanti Dalal

A Fashion Merchandising Management student was considering a career in buying, until her internship at a fashion e-commerce startup turned her away from it. She was brought on staff as an “Accessories Intern,” where she thought she would help organize the accessory closet, write up content, and help with social media coverage. A semester’s worth of Fridays, thousands of coffee orders, and one round of dusting the office later, she realized that her true job description meant memorizing the amount of pumps of espresso her boss liked in her cappuccino.

“Working through Friday night, becoming a frequent customer at the Starbucks across the street and chopping carrots for a company party was not my idea of career development,” says the student.

Internships are becoming a mainstay in most college curriculums because they are the closest thing to the real world that a student can access.

Especially in an industry like fashion, understanding the ins and outs of the industry can count for more than what can just be learned in a classroom.

But while some internships live up to their promise of being challenging, interesting, and groundbreaking, others may simply feel like a waste of time, energy, and resources.

Some interns are given real responsibilities, with real consequences, wherein they are able to grasp skill sets that they need to improve on, make contacts that they crave and leave feeling accomplished. One Advertising and Marketing Communications student said that her event planning internship taught her the most important skill of all—to network. “I didn’t get to do much at the company, considering they were an extremely small company, with their work already chalked out between them. However, I got to work all the events, and gathered emails and business cards of everyone I could meet.”

One intern had a great time, just not a meaningful one. “My internship was a party. We were four interns, all of the same age working in a photo studio, left pretty much to our own devices. We ordered pizza, had dance parties, and gossiped, but left learning nothing but each other’s favorite dance moves,” she said.

At the end of the day, it seems like an internship is what you make of it. “Ask questions, and be proactive,” one girl working at a local newspaper said.

“They let me pitch stories after I emailed a list of 30 possible story ideas to my supervisors.”

PERSPECTIVE

Plus-Size Sex Appeal

By Erik DeFruscio

“PLUS-SIZE: ADJECTIVE; A SIZE LARGER THAN THE NORMAL RANGE.” In the fashion industry, plus-size is heard of, but almost never seen. A size that ranges from 12 to 24, these numbers are hardly recognized by industry officials and designers. However, in one of their most read issues, Sports Illustrated debuted their first plus -size model and it stirred up quite a lot of controversy.

Robin Lawley, size 12, made an appearance in the 2015 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue. Many individuals voiced their opinion that being a size 12 shouldn’t be considered plus-size at all, considering that the most common size in the United States is a 14. The connotation that is associated with being plus-size previously made Lawley believe that “You had to be skinny to be beautiful. And I thought I would never be beautiful at this size,” she said in an interview with Clique Magazine.

It is apparent that many people are led to believe that if they aren’t skinny, they are ugly—despite knowing deep down that this simply isn’t true. In an interview with Elle, models were asked, “What do you think of the phrase ‘plus-size’? Why is it so fraught?” With five models interviewed in the article, answers ranged from taking no offense to relating the term to injustices such as segregation. “The phrase ‘plussize’ doesn’t really bother me, it’s just a very indescribable word,” Sabina Karlsson said. Georgina Burke, Torrid’s brand ambassador, disagreed, stating that, “It’s an insignificant term used by the fashion industry that shouldn’t be crossed over in the everyday language of describing someone’s size.”

Lawley also commented on the debate in an interview with Clique Magazine. “I don’t think anyone should be called plus-size. I think it’s derogatory to anyone—it’s a label.

I’m a model; I don’t think I need ‘plus-size’ in front of it.” There has been a relatively small number of plus-size fashion features in the past, and most of them have failed to make a “plus-sized” impact in the industry. This was made apparent after asking people how many advertisements and spreads they could think of that included plussize models. The results were slim to none.

Myla Dalbesio, a size 10 model, had high hopes when she started working on an underwear campaign with Calvin Klein. “I [felt] like for a minute, it was starting to feel

like this plus-size thing really was a trend, and that it was over,” Dalbesio stated in an interview with Elle. “We thought it was going to open so many doors for all of us, you know? And it felt like it hadn’t. It was dying out.”

However in more recent months, there has been a resurgence of exposure, namely with the stunningly curvaceous model Ashley Graham posing in Sports Illustrated’s annual swimsuit issue. She proudly serves as the face of #CurvesInBikinis, while also promoting an exciting new line of plus-size swimsuits that range from sizes 10 to 34.

Finally, sexy swimsuits for all.

The spread was received with overwhelming optimism, readers responding well to the buxom beauty proudly posing in her black string bikini. Graham’s confidence radiates off of the page; she has never been one to begrudge her shape and size. “I know my curves are sexy and I want everyone to know that theirs are too.” Graham said in a statement, “This is no reason to hide and every reason to flaunt. The world is ready for more curves in bikinis.”

This poignant message is refreshing to say the least, when the media has previously been crowded by such negativity regarding the topic of size and body image.

Now proud of her curves, Myla Dalbesio revealed in an Elle interview that she had previously, “spent years abusing Adderall, crash dieting, and flirting with bulimia in an attempt to whittle herself to ‘straight size.’” Lawley also explained, “I was counting calories, I was taking diet pills, I was dabbing in starvation,” she told Clique.

The research that Durham University published stated that, “Models in adverts should be more representative of ‘normal’ women.” The study continued with the recognition that, “There is evidence that being constantly surrounded through the media by celebrities and models who are very thin contributes to girls and women having an unhealthy attitude to their bodies.”

With this as evidence, it is exciting to see the fashion industry taking notice of the opportunity to include plus-size models in their advertisements and campaigns.

Maybe one day the advertising world will have models that won’t even need to be described by their body size. “I just consider myself a model because I’m trying to help women in general accept their bodies,” Lawley said.

PERSPECTIVE

Introvert vs. Extrovert How you can be an introvert and still run the world

By Caroline Johnson | Illustrated by Kyle Ursin Recently there has been a dialogue about what it actually means to be introverted or extroverted. Typically, the first thing that comes to mind is being withdrawn or sociable, respectively. However, further psychological explanations have led to the increase in awareness about this previously taboo topic of individual’s dispositions.

Over time, our society has taken on the view that Susan Cain calls in her book, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, the “extrovert ideal.” We have come to exponentially favor the more outwardly expressive personality everywhere from work to school, and at home. We switched from what Cain describes as a “Culture of Character” to a “Culture of Personality”, in which the individual who feels more comfortable in the spotlight, would rather talk than listen, or is perhaps extremely bold, is often the one characterized as more likeable, more successful, or just plain better off.

Unfortunately, this has forced a huge population (about one in every three people) to think of themselves as lesser. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Some of history’s greatest innovators, artists, and leaders were introverts. Prominent examples include Rosa Parks, Albert Einstein, Gandhi, Chopin, and Dr. Seuss. While it is a common assumption that introverts are soft-spoken folks who don’t have much individuality or personality at all, there has been a more recent conversation about how introverts and extroverts can utilize their strengths.

Introverts tend to be the listeners in the group. They observe everything in detail, which enables them to pick up personality nuances that most would miss. This capability not only establishes thoughtfulness and innovation, but also limits the opportunity for impulsive social flubs that extroverts would more likely make.

Extroverts, perhaps because of their special ability to voice ideas with more confidence, could stand to pay closer attention to their counterpart’s thoughts and opinions in order to have more successful interactions.

In today’s Internet and social media age, there are thousands of ways we communicate with one another. Whether face-to-face interactions are your thing or not, introversion shouldn’t be looked at as a hindrance any longer. It is a unique personality trait that belongs to inimitable individuals who have shaped the world around us, and so long as our society accepts and works with this differentiation they will continue to do so for years to come.

PERSPECTIVE

Over the Taboo on Tattoos

By Sarah Fielding | Illustrated by Kyle Ursin

It has often been the case that the cliché “bad guy” in films is made obvious through his bold body art. Tattoos had traditionally been considered trashy, ugly or just plain ridiculous, but in recent years there has been a noticeable shift. Taylor Belvedere, a retail worker, said that in October the company began allowing visible tattoos in the workplace—a wise move, as a company’s previous rejection of “inked” applicants could potentially turn away a highly qualified candidate.

So, how did the tattoo even become such a taboo in the first place? Tattoos have been around for thousands of years, initially serving as a mark of one’s tribe or societal status. Even mummies have been found adorned with tattoos. In some cultures, such as in China, tattoos are considered barbaric. It was common to tattoo “prisoner” on a criminal’s face as a way to mark them. Each region differed in its reasoning for tattooing, but in more recent years the meanings and connotations behind tattoos have shifted.

During a reemergence of popularity in the 20th century, the view on tattoos became very polarized. There were those who idolized rockers and celebrities, boasting their “ink” as a sign of individuality. Conversely, there were many who thought tattoos were a disgrace to the natural human body. Tattoos became a sign of rebellion, pushing more people to get them, in order to separate themselves from the conformity of their parents’ generation.

Today, almost half of the women under 35 have tattoos, and only a quarter of males in the same age demographic are adorned with them. In contrast, among individuals about 65, a mere14 percent of males have tattoos and only four percent of women are “tatted.”

Why the dramatic increase in popularity in younger individuals?

One answer is that society is generally becoming more accepting of the differences in personal appearances. Charmaine Gomez, who has three tattoos, has a different theory, however. She believes that, “People appreciate the art a lot more because of shows like Ink Master, which really shows, firsthand, how beautiful the practice can be.”

Something worth noting is the change in the actual location of the tattoos on people’s bodies. When tattoos first became popular, the idea was to have them be noticed. Today, while many individuals still opt for tattooing visible areas, many prefer somewhere hidden, where it is only for them to see. Popular places are the ribs, shoulder blades, and ankles. These areas are also less likely to droop, distorting the image, as the person gets older.

Regardless of past judgments, concerns about societal assumptions, or parental disagreements, tattoos can are beginning to be seen as art and not rebellion, as a beautiful thing, and not a scar. It’s safe to say that the taboo on tattoos is bidding adieu.

PERSPECTIVE

Real Sex in th

By Sarah Michelson

T

he mainstream media landscape is changing. Gone are the days of a silent, dutiful housewife whose only task is to serve her husband (thankfully), and the representation of stronger characters has steadily increased. This amplified representation includes an LGBTQ audience, and has introduced feminism as the new topic of conversation between a TV show and its audience. Complexity is no longer exclusive to male characters. Celebrities are lauded for proclaiming their status as feminists, and those who claim they are not are mocked until a public apology is issued. As the audience matures in its views, what they’re watching has to change too.

Luckily, a large number of TV shows and movies have begun to shift from male-centric storylines to female-driven ones. A male character that loses his virginity is just as important as a female character losing hers. Both men and women can kick ass and look good while doing it. Both can solve a tough case using their brains and their sex appeal. Both can enjoy sex and not be ashamed of doing so.

Not only does the new generation of female characters enjoy good sex, they demand it. They are not afraid to tell their partners what they want and how they want it. On TV and in movies, girlfriends gossip about awkward onenight stands and clingy exlovers, something that only guys would joke about a few years ago. On Outlander, the protagonist Claire teaches her virginal new husband how to please her. Olivia Pope on

he Media Scandal uses sex to manipulate the president of the United States without shame, but she is also the first person he comes to for political advice.

The women of Orphan Black fight mercilessly to protect themselves and their children from those who are looking to harm them.

Although many things have changed, there is still room for improvement, of course. A female orgasm in a movie gets an “R” rating by the MPAA. Women are still shown in the nude much more often than their male counterparts. But the success of TV shows like Girls and Orange Is the New Black, and movies like Wild, prove that female-centric media can generate awards and an audience. Sex is still a weapon for women to wield, but it’s not the only tool in their arsenal.

►Outlander airs Saturdays on Starz. Scandal airs Thursdays on ABC. Orphan Black airs Saturdays on BBC. Girls airs Sundays on HBO. Orange Is the New Black is on Netflix. Wild is in theaters.

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