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MANIAC AUGUST l SEPTEMBER 2011

The too cool for School Issue

POP’S NEX T BIG THING

SIMON CURTIS JE T- SET

Brazil NEED A BREAK? THE BEST PLACES TO BLOW OFF CL ASS

MANIAC DRESS CODE MANIAC EXPOSÉ:

DEAD BEAT DADS

GILLIAN JACOBS

TEACHER’S PET

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MANIAC

Jenny, Andrew, Rebecca & April

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

AUG / SEPT 2011 CONTRIBUTORS

Publisher/Editor in Chief April Hubal

BORN ON HER OWN TERMS

Editor Jennifer K. McGlincy

BEHIND THE SCENES:

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL GET WIRED: PIT TSBURGH’S BEST COFFEESHOPS WITH FREE WI-FI

SAN FRANCISCO

Director of Advertising Rebecca Tudi

Writers Kaitlin Busch Bridgette Cunningham Dominic Janidas Alicia McElhaney Jennifer K. McGlincy Susie Meister Chrissy Perkins Katherine Reel Matthew Schreiber Ashley Boynes-Shuck Nicole Widdowson Cody Wiegand Interns Samantha Dunn Matthew Schreiber Cody Wiegand

LYKKE LI

ERIKA JAYNE

Art Director/Designer Andrew Tutko

Photography Kelli Ann Beavers Ami De La Mer Allison Evans April Hubal Marie Mashyna Katelyn Petraitis Sarah Rice Van Sarki Tyler Shields Cody Wiegand

Hey MANIAC,

JUNE l JULY 2011

The Forward Thinking Issue

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SAVAGE BEAUTY, THE NEW E X HIBIT AT THE MET MUSEUM

MANIAC MAGAZINE 219 Fort Pitt Blvd. | Pittsburgh, PA 15222 maniaceditor@maniacmagazine.com | maniacexchange.com 412.325.0052 l advertising inquries 412.325.0052

Send party ideas, compliments, criticisms, and witticisms to: MANIAC Magazine 219 Fort Pitt Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15222 maniaceditor@maniacmagazine.com

I was so happy to see Lykke Li on the last cover. I remember briefly hearing about her a couple years ago, but she has really been blowing up lately and I’m happy you guys were able to feature her. I’m interested in seeing what she gets into in the future. Alexandra R. Cranberry

Dear MANIAC, I’m a huge fan of your magazine and Lykke Li, so to see her as your covergirl was a thrill. The white on white photos of her were beautiful and the article was very well written, I learned a lot about her from reading it. Keep rocking out like you have been, MANIAC is getting better and better. Stevie M. Pittsburgh

To the Editor, I was lucky enough to go see TOTEM with some of my friends and let me just say, the show was absolutely amazing. I am such a fan of Cirque so it was cool to see some behind the scenes stuff. I love when you do the behind the scenes articles, like the one you did for Fashion Week before, keep em’ coming! Amanda P. Monroeville

ON THE COVER

Dear Maniac,

Gillian Jacobs wears a dress by Cushnie et Ochs. Shot by April Hubal, styled by Emily Barnes. Hair by Sam Leonardi and makeup by Anthea King.

I use to live in San Francisco before moving to Pittsburgh and I want to give you kudos for representing the city well. There are so many things to do in San Fran, it is such a multi-cultural, hip, fun place to be and I hope this jet-set inspires people to visit the West Coast. Thank you for highlighting my hometown and doing a great job at doing so. Alana P. Pittsburgh

MANIAC

MANIAC AUGUST l SEPTEMBER

TAKING A BIGGER BITE OUTTA LIFE

CONTENTS o cool for school

dear LIFELONG

LEARNERS,

12/ UNDERCOVER

Teacher’s Pet: Gillian Jacobs shows off her smarts in this season’s, “Community.”.

PAGE 22

20/ FOOD

MANIAC tested. MANIAC approved. SAVOY introduces the “MANIAC Martini.”

22/ SHOP

Learn this school year’s mandatory must-haves in MANIAC dress code.

26/ PROFILE

Designer on the rise, Meghan Walsh began with blank silk.

28/ FEATURE

Aspiring fashion designers take note: America’s top five fashion design schools.

32/ ART

Brushstroke genius, Ben Smith creates art for the sole.

34/ FASHION

Suited for a new season: Vibrant sheer basics meet tailored femininity.

PAGE 42

46/ EVENT

The MANIAC Wine on White party returns at The Wine Loft.

50/ STYLE

Brittney Thieroff, ModCloth.com lead merchandising stylist, reveals her best fashion advice.

52/ JET-SET

Brazil: The modern revival of the “Cidade Maravilhosa.”

56/ EVENT

Glamour meets giving at the second annual Glitzburgh event supporting Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.

58/ FASHION

Transition pieces perfect for Fall.

68/ BEAUTY

Back To Schoolgirl Chic: Get the look!

42/ MUSIC

70/ GUIDE

44/ EXPOSE

72/ SEX

Bad boy of electronic pop, Simon Curtis talks about his “Robot Army.” Revealing an American epidemic: “Deadbeat Parents.”

PAGE 12

Escape the daily grind and unwind at these four local hotspots. Going the distance: When love is separated by miles.

74/ HEALTH

You’re so vain! The facts about the IV vitamin therapy trend.

If you’ve never heard the phrase, “You’ve been schooled,” then you didn’t have an annoying sibling or never stood in complete awe of learning something you never knew, or never knew you could accomplish. At MANIAC, we strive to “school” our readers in every issue by expanding their knowledge of the culture that surrounds them on a daily basis. It is with that mission that we introduce, “The (too cool for) School Issue.” This issue was inspired greatly by our cover girl, Gillian Jacobs. A graduate of Mt. Lebanon High School, this Pittsburgh native is taking the entertainment world by storm. Best known for her role as Britta Perry on the NBC comedy series, “Community,” Jacobs embodies style and grace ... and has a pedigreed education to top it off. When it comes to a pedigreed education, some of the world’s most highly regarded fashion designers list their alma maters as Parsons, FIT and FIDM. From California, Georgia, New York and Ohio, we profile the top five fashion design schools in America. As a nod to the creative class that reside here in Pittsburgh, we catch up with some local artistic forces that inspire us including Ben Smith, the sole genius behind Brush Footwear. We get schooled in style by ModCloth.com lead merchandising stylist, Brittney Thieroff, who explains the importance of wearing clothes that best represent your personality. Pop music’s newest personality, Simon Curtis chats with us about his newest album, R∆, which debuted at number 20 on Billboard’s Dance/ Electronic chart after its first week on sale. Making first appearances in Maniac are columns that introduce our more serious side. Our new SEX column offers up love and relationship advice by Chrissy Perkins. We delve into taboo topics in our investigative EXPOSÉ series by various contributing writers. Our writers, extended family of supporters and partygoers enjoyed several social events over the past two months. We provide a round up of the second annual Glitzburgh event in support of Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh and the highly anticipated return of the Maniac Wine on White Party. If monochromatic parties aren’t your style, “Husband Upgrade” columnist turned jet-setting travel writer, Susie Meister suggests you visit Brazil - a colorful history, vibrant scenery and modern revival of Rio de Janeiro await you. It’s without further adieu, that I conclude by saying how excited I am to introduce this issue as my first with Maniac as acting editor. Following a longstanding relationship with the magazine as a contributing writer, I am thrilled to dedicate numerous hours per day pouring over story ideas and creating content that will inspire and educate you. It’s safe to say, “I’ve been schooled,” on what it takes to produce an issue of Maniac from an insider’s perspective and I look forward to the challenges and rewards that each new issue will bring. Sincerely,

Jenny McGlincy Jennifer K. McGlincy | Editor PAGE 70

PAGE 52

PAGE 34

UNDERCOVER Dress by Stella McCartney, cuff by Phillip Crangi

TEACHER’S PET Gillian Jacobs

Shows Off her smarts in this season’s community BY j enni fer k . mc gl i nc y P HOTOGRA P HY BY a pri l hubal S TYLED BY emi l y barnes HA IR BY s am l eonardi M A K EUP BY anthea k i ng 12

“My fashion sense? I would have to say I have an unhealthy obsession with stripes. I have so many stripped shirts that my friends make fun of me. I’d say on any given day, you will find me wearing a pair of jeans, a stripped shirt and Repetto ballet flats. That all sounds so French doesn’t it. I think I’m a closet Francophile.”

UNDERCOVER Dress by Cushnie et Ochs, bracelet by Stella McCartney Opposite: Dress by Peter Som, ring by Natalie Frigo

category UNDERCOVER header ake sure to remember the name of Gillian Jacobs, a stunning Juilliard graduate who has the glow of a star in the making,” remarked The New York Times in 2006. That flattering prediction was spot-on, as Gillian has certainly “arrived.” From Pittsburgh Public Theater to a headlining role on the NBC hit comedy series, Community, this effervescent, classically beautiful actress’s name is on the tip of everyone’s tongue - if only they could pronounce it correctly. “Every single day of my life,” Gillian Jacobs explains how often people mispronounce her name. “It’s pronounced just like it’s spelled in this case. I’m not like the other Gillians in the world who have to tell everyone that it’s pronounced just like Jillian but with a G. My name is NOT pronounced like Jillian.” To say that Gillian has been acting as long as she can remember wouldn’t be an exaggeration. She totes a wonderfully rich

High School in 2000. With her sights set on receiving a pedigreed education, Gillian moved to New York City, and just like some of the world’s most legendary and well-respected actors, she enrolled in The Julliard School, where she was a member of the Drama Division’s Group 33. When asked about the pressures of attending such a prestigious school, Gillian says, “I wouldn’t say that there was huge competition between the students as some would expect. I was more concerned with the pressure of living up to the expectations of the faculty.” The self-imposed pressure to live up to expectations and an on-going desire to develop her craft has been a springboard for Gillian to take on roles that continually challenge her. Since professionally burgeoning on the scene in 2006, a growing list of stage, film and television credits illustrates her range. Some of her more notable roles have been gritty bourgeois characters like a drug addict in

bleeding-heart social activist. At the suggestion that Britta’s rants and raves make her endearing to some people, Gillian says, “Some would say she isn’t endearing at all. I think what makes her endearing is when she’s a hypocrite.” When asked about holding her own among comedy legends like Chevy Chase and college-humor pros like Joel McHale or Ken Jeong, Gillian gushed, “It’s like grad school for me. Just being around funny people is an education. I think you become funny if you surround yourself with funny people. I just try not to mess it up.” Gillian Jacobs and I agreed that Britta Perry would strongly oppose doing an interview with MANIAC Magazine -- a glossy that whores frivolous fashion -- only to later begrudgingly accept the opportunity to share her views on the world’s latest social injustices. “One of my favorite moments on Community was an episode we did when the characters learned how to play Dungeons and

Shirt by Jenni Kayne, pants by Stella McCartney, ring by Natalie Frigo, shoes by Stella McCartney

“It’s pronounced just like it’s spelled in this case. I’m not like the other Gillians in the world who have to tell everyone that it’s pronounced just like Jillian but with a G. My name is NOT pronounced like Jillian.” history of developing her craft considering she is only twenty-eight-years-old. From her home in Los Angeles where she says she gets terrible cell phone reception, this talented and charming actress shared with MANIAC what inspired her to choose acting, where she received an education, how the community is embracing her and why she is seeking a friend for the end of the world. Roughly twenty years have passed since Gillian got her first taste of acting. This Pittsburgh native remarks that she was that girl who talked to herself on the playground. “My teachers called my mom and suggested that she get me involved in a theater program or something outside of school to make friends. My mom thought it was a perfect idea because she said I made everything a soap opera. I always had strong opinions as a child, I was the kid more concerned with the debt ceiling than the adults around me.” Gillian enrolled in The Pittsburgh Public Theater in 3rd grade - she recalls falling in love with performing after she had four lines in a PPT production of Shakespeare’s “As You Like It.” She made her name locally acting in PPT productions for 12 years until she graduated from Mt. Lebanon 16

the Philip Seymour Hoffman-directed play, The Little Flower of East Orange. Other roles include a rape victim in the stage production, Cagelove. While Cagelove wasn’t received well by critics, Gillian’s performance garnered her that now famous prognostication from the New York Times. Gillian Jacobs perfectly balances the moxie required to make her an indiefilm star with roles in Gardens of the Night (2007), Choke (2009) and NoNames (2010) with the humility required to hold her own alongside comedic legends like Chevy Chase on the NBC series, Community. Community takes place at the fictional Greendale Community College in Greendale, Colorado. The series focuses on Jeff Winger (played by Joel McHale) and a study group he forms which includes Britta Perry (Gillian Jacobs), Pierce Hawthorne (Chevy Chase), Annie Edison (Alison Brie), Troy Barnes (Donald Glover), Shirley Bennett (Yvette Nicole Brown), Abed Nadir (Danny Pudi) and Ben “Señor” Chang (Ken Jeong). Since the show’s premiere in 2009, Gillian Jacobs has wittily played Britta Perry, Greendale Community College’s resident feminist and somewhat misguided,

Dragons. Not only did Britta miss the point of the game because she was too concerned with gnome rights, but there was a part early in the episode when she claimed that Julian Assange is the modern-day Thomas Paine -- that part was completely improv.” Fashion is something Britta would deem absurd but Gillian Jacobs was happy to dish with us. “My fashion sense? I would have to say I have an unhealthy obsession with stripes. I have so many striped shirts that my friends make fun of me. I’d say on any given day, you will find me wearing a pair of jeans, a stripped shirt and Repetto ballet flats. That all sounds so French doesn’t it. I think I’m a closet Francophile.” A misplaced Francophile in Los Angeles is still worlds apart from Pittsburgh. Gillian Jacobs last visited her parents in Pittsburgh over Easter. “The biggest adjustment to L.A. for me has been that nobody walks anywhere. I came from New York City and previously Pittsburgh where you have to have to walk a lot to get anywhere. My friends call me up and ask me to hike in Los Angeles but hiking to them is walking up a hill.” For the record, Gillian hates exercising. 17

UNDERCOVER

Dress by Peter Som Opposite: Dress by Cushnie et Ochs, bracelet by Stella McCartney

She simply doesn’t do it. So that slim, fit figure is a result of eating healthy and good genes. “Since I came to L.A., I’ve learned a lot about eating healthy. I’ve become a big fan of super foods like quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) and kale.” Something that she is not a huge fan of is the sun as she expressed, “I’m as pale as they come.” Some of Gillian’s other interests include: bowling (even though she claims to be a terrible bowler), visiting art galleries, crime fiction and “hiking” with friends. I stopped her at “hiking” because I felt like she was really reaching with that one. She said she was relieved that she didn’t have to make her interests seem more interesting than they actually are. When asked if she was a Steelers fan, Gillian confessed, “My poor dad tried so hard. I

Seeking a Friend for the End of the World, a romantic dramedy in which she plays alongside Steve Carell, Keira Knightley and Adam Brody (to name a few). The movie --currently in post-production -- was written and directed by Lorene Scafaria, who wrote the screenplay adaptation of the 2008, Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist. Set in the near future as an impending apacolypse nears earth, Dodge, played by Steve Carell enlists his neighbor, played by Knightley, to help him on a road trip to find his high school sweetheart after his wife leaves him in a panic. Along the way they encounter numerous characters including Katie, played by Gillian Jacobs. Seeking a Friend for the End of the World is scheduled for release in 2012.

One thing is for sure, Gillian will not be at a loss for friends or fans should the ominous end of the world come upon us. Gillian Jacobs possesses the power and poise that reminds us of old Hollywood. Her persona exudes just the right amount of coyness mixed with an intelligent and sassy core. This perfect recipe translates to honesty and intelligence in all of the characters that she plays creating something in each of them that anyone could relate to.

“The biggest adjustment to L.A. for me has been that nobody walks anywhere. I came from New York City and previously Pittsburgh where you have to have to walk a lot to get anywhere. My friends call me up and ask me to hike in Los Angeles but hiking to them is walking up a hill.” definitely watch them if they end up in the playoffs and of course the Super Bowl. I’ve heard there is a Steelers bar disguised as a Hooters on Hollywood Blvd. I’ve not been there yet, but I should check it out.” We admire her willingness to grow. Season three of Community began filming at the end of July. On her first day back on set, Gillian tweeted (@ GillianJacobs) a photo of a large sign that congratulated the cast and crew for their zero Emmy nominations. Her Twitter followers congratulated her on the snub and reminded her of the importance of retaining undersog status. Emmy snubs aside, Gillian remains enthusiatic about the upcoming season. When I asked what’s to come of Britta Perry in season three, she said, “I have no idea, I don’t think the writers trust us enough not to tell people. We don’t find out story lines sometimes until right before filming.” Dan Harmon, creater of Community, recently told TV Guide that Britta will finally figure what she wants to do with her life and pick a major. Community season 3 premieres Thursday, September 22 on NBC. The DVD of season 2 is released September 6. As we near the end of our conversation, Gillian filled me in about her return to the big screen as well. Before returning to the set of Community, she had just wrapped filming of the motion picture, 18

FOOD

BOTTOM’S UP

THE MANIAC MARTINI CONTEST AT SAVOY

B Y do m i ni c j a ni da s P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y c o dy w i e ga nd

Here at MANIAC, we like our martinis shaken, stirred, straight up, with a twist, dirty… you name it. As long as it’s Maniac-style, we’ll drink it. Because we have been spending so much time (and money) at our new favorite hot spot, Savoy, our friends there helped us to run a contest to name a martini after us! We are so honored and humbled to introduce to you the Maniac Martini! Personally, I’ve only ever once had a drink named after me, the Dom-arita, because at one point I was personally funding Papa J’s Centro via my bar tab. I digress. The contest was a social media phenomenon in Pittsburgh because of the unbelievable amount of submissions we received on Facebook. Maniac is big on reader interaction, and we wanted to give all the Maniacs out there a chance to “share their wild side” with us through their favorite drink creations. Readers and alcohol enthusiasts uploaded their ideal Maniac Martini recipe for a “last call” of sorts on what tasted the best. The battle was fierce, and waged for the entire month of July. While there might not have been any bottle slinging like something straight out of Coyote Ugly, the contest was intense. But alas, on Tuesday August 2nd, we crowned a winner for the best recipe deserving to be deemed the Maniac Martini. Concoction extraordinaire, Hannah Gaffney, has her fantastic creation, the Ice Cream Sundae Martini, on Savoy’s specialty drink menu! Clearly, this is only something a true Maniac could achieve. Not only did Hannah win her delicious dessert of a drink a spot on the menu, but she also won a taste testing with four of her closest friends and a bottle service night out on the town (Maniac-style, of course) at Savoy. The Maniac Martini contest was run strictly through Facebook, using a picture of the contestant with their martini, and we let the readers take the reigns with which recipe they “liked” (literally) the best. The contestant with the most “likes” won. With an astounding 190 “likes,” Hannah Gaffney won the contest and surpassed any other martini out there.

Elaborating about her delectable creation, Gaffney tells us her favorite part about Savoy is the rooftop deck, so you can only imagine where her idea came from. “Savoy’s dessert menu was the inspiration for the Sundae Martini, they offer a list of classic comfort desserts. The Ice Cream Sundae Martini is a fun spin on a classic comfort dessert. Picture this: You’re sitting out on the rooftop patio after a dinner of fried chicken and waffles…you’re going to want that Ice Cream Sundae Martini to top off the night!” Because the contest itself was interactionbased, there was an open-call for people to get online and vote for the best martini. Friends and family certainly helped Hannah as well, “I had A LOT of help and love coming from my brother and Los Angeles! I definitely want to thank them for my ‘likes’!” How might she repay them? Perhaps she includes them in her private tasting at Savoy. Or better yet, maybe she buys them all a round of the Hannah Gaffney Ice Cream Sundae Martini! Now that’s a drink we can enjoy all year round! Thank you all so much for your support and participation in the Maniac Martini Contest. Because of readers like you, we continue to do what we love, and share it with you all. Also, a HUGE THANKS goes out to our friends at Savoy for helping us make this possible. If you haven’t ventured down to the Strip District to try out the diverse food and drink menus at Savoy, do yourself a favor and get there immediately. Not only is the atmosphere something out of New York City, Los Angeles, and Miami, with trendy furniture, unique lighting, a flashy bar with a decorative flaming background, countless celebrity sightings, and an awesome upstairs deck, but also, Pittsburgh’s hottest restaurant has been serving up some of the finest food and drinks in town. Last issue, we looked at Savoy’s Executive Chef, Kevin Watson, and his amazing spin on culinary creations. But, with all good meals, you need to be able to wash them down with some great drinks too. Enter, Ty Kerstetter. Aside from Hannah Gaffney’s addition of the Ice

Cream Sundae Martini, he is the genius behind Savoy’s fantastic drink menu, which includes several different martini options. With 12 martinis standing strong on the menu, Savoy is also going to start what Ty calls Martini Flights. “This will allow patrons to sample multiple martinis, especially since many patrons have a difficult time choosing just one.” Kerstetter opened up about the awesome cocktail selection Savoy offers as well. “The Jali-berry is the Dr. Jeckle and Mr. Hyde of cocktails. [It] starts out sweet and finishes with the lingering flavor and heat of a Jalapeño pepper.” Some like it hot, and here at Maniac, we like it scorching! Whetting our appetite even more, Kerstetter discussed a favorite to Savoy clientele: The Savoy. “This drink was designed to emulate the color gradient of our logo, along with the incorporation of the logo’s flaming ‘O’. The color fades from yellow to orange to red, as the martini glass narrows, and with a flaming orange rind circle floating on top, [it] emulates the look of the Savoy logo.” It is absolutely clear to anyone who visits Savoy for the night that it is THE place to hang out. Obviously, Maniac is a firm believer and advocate in what they do. Not many places would offer to host a contest for someone to create their next martini, however everyone certainly enjoyed the experience. We got to bond with our readers and have a fun night out on the town (regardless of paparazzi). To us, nothing tastes as sweet. Above: Savoy’s Ty Kerstetter and winner of the Maniac Martini contest, Hannah Gaffney with her Ice Cream Sundae Martini.

MANIAC SHOPS

SHOP Cu r vy boot j e a n s - Hi p ’ ti q u e, pri n t e d c ot t on spa n de x j e rse y strapless ruched bodysuit i n c rè m e /n a vy by American A p p arel , j a c k e t by Gemma Kah n g - e. b . Pep p er, bracelet by Ban an a Rep u b l i c

MANIAC DRESS CODE

As the seasons change, so must your wardrobe and we have some of the hottest looks for Fall ‘11. Now is the time to look chic and sophisticated, especially for this year’s back-to-school season. Get out those blazers and boots that you buried deep in your closet last Fall and get ready to rep some stylish looks while the weather begins to get brisk. As summer fades, trade in your bright colors for patterns, and this seasons newest trend; stripes! Just because vivid hues are taking a backseat, that doesn’t mean your outfit has to be dull. Add colorful, over-sized jewelry to make your look pop. To complete your headto-toe look, don’t forget to purchase elegant notebooks, journals and pencils to stand out from the crowd in class and at work.

Banana Republic bracelet

P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y a pr i l huba l S T YL E D B Y br i t t a n y o ’ c o nne l l H A I R & MA K E U P B Y br i t t a n y o ’ co nne l l MO D E L FR O M c hr i st a l v ui ch - do c he r t y m o del s

E.B. PEPPER Pant s by Ma gaschoni Co l l e cti on - e.b.Pep per , one shouldered bodysuit by Be be, nec k la c e by Ann Ta y lor, bra c elet Burl i ngton Coa t Factor y.

necklace

Anthropologie BANANA REPUBLIC

Tommy Hilfiger

Xiomara high heel

travel bag

Louis Vuitton Manhattan bag

aurous emblem journal pride & Prejudice book magnifying glass branch & twig colored pencils

S t ri ppe d dre ss - Refl ect A p p arel , bronze cr ystal t e a rdrop e a rri n gs - Targ et

MANIAC SHOPS

Anthropologie branch & twig colored pencils

Russel+Hazel clipboard & padfolio

Anthropologie What to Wear notepad

Nike

Lunar Sweet Victory+ Women’s Training shoe, yellow

Hip’tique bag

Jac k et - Exp r ess, ma t e r i a l gi r l skirt - Macys, bla c k h a l te r bodysuit by Amer ican A pp a r e l , r i ng by So Good Jew e lr y

PROFILE

Imagine an expat jazz band from the 1920’s era that packs up everything they own and flees to India to experience the rich Rajasthani culture. Imagine a long ago era when people packed their belongings in trunks and traveled by train – back when sophisticated tailoring supported femininity without being overly sexual.

REL AXED SOPHISTICATION MADE FROM

BLANK SILK

B Y je nni f e r k. m cgl i nc y PH O T O G R A P H Y B Y a m i de l a m e r

A DESIGN STAR ON THE RISE

drawing inspiration from the Punjab region in India. There are some army details and silk brocades. I also included cashmere and fur.” Meghan presented the fall collection in March 2011 at the AMG and Mercedes Benz Miami Beach Polo World Cup. Meghan stated, “I started out designing some silk ties and accessories for the equestrian-set in the early days, so it felt quite appropriate to share my fall That’s exactly what young designer, Meghan collection with the same people who supported Walsh had in mind when she designed the Fall me when I started out years ago.” 2011 sophomore collection for Blank Silk (the So what’s the draw to India? Meghan Walsh name she gave her fashion line). first travelled to India in 2003 and fell in love Since debuting her first collection at New with it. “The culture, the colors and the people York Fashion Week, Spring 2011, Meghan inspire me. They drew me here time and Walsh garnered loads of industry buzz and rave time again,” stated Meghan. Meghan Walsh reviews for her unique approach to a fashion spent four months in a private haweli in Jaipur aesthetic that we rarely see anymore. A peek at designing her first collection. She continued, “I the Fall 2011 look-book proves that not only is want to support the country. India has amazing this aesthetic not extinct, but Meghan Walsh is fashion designers and I want to highlight how revolutionizing the way we look at femininity and the traditions of India can translate in to our forcing us to yearn for that relaxed, sophisticated Western culture.” lifestyle that her clothing conjures. Blank Silk is translating well and Meghan Armed with a solid education including Walsh is on our radar. We concluded our concentrated studies of Painting, Graphic conversation with Meghan’s plans for the Design and Eastern Religion - Hinduism at Elon future, “I want to build an empire: home, University, and extensive coursework in Couture menswear and lingerie to name a few.” We Embellishment & Appliqué at The Parsons have no doubt that her relaxing silhouettes and School of Design, Meghan Walsh embodies the timeless sophistication will convert well in any sort of creative entrepreneurial spirit that we of these endeavors. love to see in young designers. “I create designs based on what inspires me, not based on trends. I hate trends. If we do everything that others are doing, we’d be so bored,” says Meghan Walsh. Blank Silk is certainly not boring. The hallmarks of her first collection included romantic dresses in a variety of fabrics including silk, chiffon and organza. Solid silks in jewel tones gained jaw-dropping reactions. When asked how the Fall 2011 collection differs from the airy, light feel of the first collection, Meghan explained, “The second collection was really no holds barred. I had one collection under my belt and felt more comfortable with the aesthetic that I had created. There was more attention to detail,

“The second collection was really no holds barred. I had one collection under my belt and felt more comfortable with the aesthetic that I had created. There was more attention to detail, drawing inspiration from the Punjab region in India, there are some army details and silk brocades. I also included cashmere and fur.” < Blank Silk creator and designer Meghan Walsh. Photo by Van Sarki.

FEATURE

Parsons The New School For Design

SEW SMART The fashion design industry is growing. In order to keep up with the competition, one must be at the top of their game, and in order to do so, one must have a solid education in fashion design. America is

home to some of the top fashion design schools

– one just has to know where to look.

BY al i ci a mce lh a n e y

Parsons, located in the heart of New York City, is America’s first school to offer fashion design. With five generations of successful design students, Parsons is a school that is both reliable and extraordinary. In order to be accepted, a student is required to complete a portfolio of eight to 12 pieces of work, along with the Parsons Challenge, a unique application process found on their website. After being accepted, students must complete their first year in general education courses, after which they begin to concentrate on garment construction and conceptual design. During their senior year, students complete a thesis project and develop a portfolio, both of which are shown to high-profile consultants. The school’s location, as well as its longevity makes it a hub for students that want a solid fashion design education, as well as many career opportunities and internships down the road. Furthermore, Parsons had the honor of hosting New York City’s first Fashion Campus – a program that allows ambitious students to make contacts with those in the field of fashion design – this summer. Parsons alumni include famed designers such as Marc Jacobs, Proenza Schouler, Anna Sui and Donna Karan.

Fashion Institute of Technology Like Parsons, the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) is located in New York City, and has been around for many years – 65, to be exact. Students that attend this program are able to take full advantage of the school’s Seventh Avenue location by way of internships and events offered through the program. Within the fashion design major are several specific

tracks a student can opt to participate in, including Children’s Wear, Intimate Apparel, Knitwear, Special Occasion or Sportswear. FIT also offers the option of obtaining a one or two year associates degree in fashion design. According to Joan Arbuckle, the Dean of the School of Art and Design, “Students can take advantage of two unique resources, the Gladys Marcus Library and the Museum at FIT.” The library includes rare volumes and a Special Collections section with abundant primary research material in their original formats. The Museum at FIT is the only museum in New York City dedicated to fashion, with a collection of more than 50,000 garments and accessories. The school provides internships with Calvin Klein, Gucci, Tiffany & Co. and Vogue through their career services office. When they graduate, about 90 percent of students are placed in the field of fashion design by Career Services at FIT. This service center seems to be doing its job as FIT alumni include Calvin Klein, Francisco Costa and Nanette Lepore.

Kent State University Kent State University, located in Kent, Ohio is a surprising home to one of the top design schools in America. While Kent is a typical state university, their fashion design program is anything but typical. Lettie Beasley, a rising sophomore said “There are always so many new and upcoming job and internship opportunities in the fashion school...I actually got the chance to meet (Leonardo Ferragamo).” The fashion design program at Kent State is unique in that it includes two concentrations – conceptual design and 29

FASHION technical design and production. Conceptual design follows the design process from the concept to creation, while technical design and production provides a focus on garment construction and technical skills necessary for design. During their first year at Kent, all fashion design students complete the same specific courses. In their sophomore year, the students choose the concentration that best suits their ambitions. Due to its remote location, Kent provides students with the opportunity to study elsewhere in their New York City studio as well as their branch campuses in Florence, Italy and Hong Kong. After completing their senior internship, students have found work at leading design companies including Abercrombie and Fitch and Liz Claiborne.

Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising

be accepted into the school of fashion design, students must complete a portfolio displaying their best work. After accepted, students complete foundation and general education courses before completing their major curriculum. Before graduation, each student completes a portfolio that they present in the annual juried SCAD fashion show. In addition to the bachelor’s degree in fashion design, SCAD is one of the few schools that also offer a masters degree in the program. Thus, students have more than one option after graduating – they can choose to further their education, or to delve into one of the many career opportunities offered by SCAD. Employers of SCAD alumni include Anthropologie, Lilly Pulitzer, Vera Wang and Oscar de la Renta. And with internships offered at companies like BCBGMAXAZRIA, French Connection and Diane von Furstenberg, it is no wonder that students are finding these kinds of jobs.

The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) is also unique in its focus. With four locations across California, the school provides a new look at the fashion industry by providing fashion design students with two options. They can choose to simply to earn an associate of the arts degree in fashion, getting a jump start on their careers, or students can continue on with the advanced fashion design program. This approach to the industry allows students to get a head start on their careers – something the school primarily focuses on. In order to be admitted, students must complete a portfolio that includes an inspiration page, six sketches and fabric swatches that bring the sketches to life. If their portfolio is accepted, students immediately start working toward the design aspects of their degree, as opposed to completing general education courses. The school partners with Juicy Couture and Cotton Inc. in order to provide students with the best education both inside and outside the classroom. FIDM’s involved career services center gives students and graduates with opportunities in internships, part-time and full-time jobs. Graduates have been hired at companies such as Anthropologie, Zara, Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom. FIDM boasts alumni including designer and celebrity Lauren Conrad as well as the co-founder of Juicy Couture, Pamela Skaist-Levy.

Savannah College of Art and Design – Atlanta Campus The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) has several locations including Hong Kong, Lacoste and the home of the fashion design school, Atlanta. The school combines conceptual, creative and technical skills to educate a well-rounded student. In order to 30

ART

ART & SOLE WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE IN SMITH’S SHOES

Ben Smith walks up to our interview with shoeboxes strapped to his backpack and his hair spiked higher than a Louboutin heel. He doesn’t smile at first, intent on looking the part of fashion artist. When the coffee shop owner sees his work and requests sneakers painted with the Hulk for his nephew, Smith’s seriousness breaks. He’s not immune to flattery, he knows that he can paint, and he must know that he’s had one lucky year for a twenty-one year old painting on Vans shoes.

B Y b r id g e tt e c unni ngha m PH O T O G R A P H Y B Y m a r i e m a shy na

“I like to stay fresh in my head, keep my ideas away from what’s going on.” Brush Footwear hasn’t even been up and running for a year, and Smith is already working out of his own studio designing footwear for hockey stars Max Talbot and Marc-André Fleury. Talbot happened to be using the same web design company as Smith for his foundation, www.maxtalbotfoundation.org, when he stumbled upon Smith’s “Le Frog” Vans on display. “He tried them on, and walked out in them. Called me to make custom shoes for himself and Fleury,” Smith recalls like it was just any other day. Not only did he make the shoes, he hand painted Talbot’s logo for the Foundation, and had some help from Talbot turning a botched order from China into a major act of humanitarianism. Smith had ordered 1500 pairs of shoes that he deemed unusable last year. “I looked forever in the US, but couldn’t find anything. The sample didn’t match what I got, and Talbot fell into place.” By falling into place, Smith means that Talbot took the 1500 pairs of slipons and had his teammates paint a few pairs to be put on auction. The rest of the shoes were matched with children from the Pittsburgh Kids Foundation to paint their own art on the canvas. The kids’ painted shoes were then shipped to an orphanage in Haiti. While Smith’s mishap turned into the starter idea for Talbot’s Foundation, for now, Smith is sticking to custom kicks. When I ask if he still

has a day job, he says, “This is it. I’m only 21.” He’s doing about five custom orders per month with a 200-600 dollar price tag. “For right now, I want to hand paint,” Smith says of the painstaking hours put into creating each shoe without any stencil. Max Talbot and Marc-André Fleury aren’t the only ones taking note of Smith’s talents in Pittsburgh. Smith recently collaborated with the Mattress Factory on custom sneakers. Known for its contemporary art, room-sized environments and in-residence artists, it’s no surprise that the museum wanted to work with Ben Smith. Smith created two pair of sneakers inspired by the installation, “Infinity Dots Mirrored Room,” by Yayoi Kusama, a permanent collection at the Mattress Factory. He also did two pair with the Mattress Factory “MF” logo on a high and low top Converse Chuck Taylor. These shoes are still available for purchase at the Mattress Factory gift shop or on their website. So what’s next on his painting radar? Heels. “It’s tricky. Next season pumps won’t be in.” I suggest that he look into ballet flats and he drops some brand names to let me know he’s been researching. As for the style, “I’m thinking feathered,” he says. The more we talk about women’s brands, the more he thinks he might just let the ladies pick their own shoe and he will customize it.

Smith stays away from the fashion blogs and the trends. “I like to stay fresh in my head, keep my ideas away from what’s going on.” He’s a talented painter and a serious artist, but he’s not completely immune to the pop world. Smith claims Alexander McQueen as an inspiration. When I ask who he’d love to design a shoe for, his mind goes right to Lady Gaga. “She’s such a hype beast. Your shoes would explode. She’d have to walk on jellyfish,” he says, imagery flooding his head. Whatever Smith decides, he’s got some major players rooting for him, some skilled hands, and an eye for design to carry him.

WELL SUIT E D PHOTOGRAPHY BY a p r il h u b a l STYLED BY cai tl y n le a r y HAIR & MAKEUP BY g il a ld r in

Blazer by Banana Republic, black skirt by ‘B14 Core’ - e.b. Pepper, white nylon spandex micromesh bodysuit by American Apparel Opposite Page: Cotton spandex jersey micromesh Gloria V bodysuit from American Apparel

Mile blazer by Wish - Reflect Apparel cotton spandex jersey micro-mesh Gloria V bodysuit - American Apparel

Jacket by Factory by Erik Hart - Reflect Apparel, pants by Bailey 44 - e.b. Pepper, nylon spandex micro-mesh bodysuit in magic pink by American Apparel

Blazer by Banana Republic, black skirt by B14 Core from e.b. Pepper, white nylon spandex micro-mesh bodysuit from American Apparel

Pink jumper by Michael Kors

Cotton spandex jersey micro-mesh Gloria V bodysuit from American Apparel

Skirt by Fighting Eel - Reflect Apparel, nylon spandex micro-mesh bodysuit in magic pink by American Apparel

MUSIC

SINK YOUR TEETH INTO

SIMON CURTIS POP’S NEXT BIG THING B Y m a t t h e w s c h r e ibe r

Pop music isn’t what it used to be. Gone are the days of well-groomed boy bands and sweet-as-candy platinum blonde divas, each competing to have the biggest and brightest performances. Today, pop is a darker place with grittier themes and heavier basses delivered alongside strong electronic influences. Rihanna discusses her sexual fantasies (“S&M”), Ke$ha brushes her teeth with whiskey (“TiK ToK”) and Lady GaGa just can’t help but fall in love with one of the bible’s greatest traitors (“Judas”). Even former teen-queen Britney Spears has taken on heavier beats in her newest album, Femme Fatale. Enter Simon Curtis, the future bad boy of electronic-pop. After the self-launch of his wellreceived debut album, 8Bit Heart, downloaded over 1,000,000 times on his website (www. simon-curtis.com), Curtis is back with his sophomore effort, R∆, and ready to join the ranks of pop’s elite. Quite impressively, R∆ debuted at number 20 on Billboard’s Dance/ Electronic Album chart after its first week on sale. All of this was accomplished without a management team or record label. At the young age of ten Curtis began participating in professional-level plays, operas and musicals, performing anywhere from six to eight per year. A few short years later, he began exploring his interest in pop music. “By the time I was, I want to say about 15,” he recently explained to MANIAC, “that’s when

“Those bands were kind of my ‘gateway drug’ into pop music. That kind of led to a love for ABBA and Madonna and Michael Jackson and kept branching out further from there. The more that I kept exploring pop music, the more that I realized how much I loved it.” Britney Spears and *NSYNC were at their height and pop music was like the biggest thing in the world. I decided that I wanted to be a pop star. So, I quit doing musicals and operas and I started recording music and then I moved out to LA when I was 18. It just kind of continued on from there.” After relocating to Los Angeles, Curtis began auditioning for a role in an upcoming Nickelodeon movie. His impressive background in theatre paid off and he landed the role of Royce Du Lac in Spectacular!, a musical TV movie. Curtis temporarily moved to Vancouver and filmed for two months. “It was my first kick start to a fan base. I’m appreciative of everything that I’ve been able to do and accomplish through Nickelodeon. That’s what I started my career off with,” Curtis said. Since then, music has been his primary focus. Curtis cited the stunningly successful careers of boy bands such as *NSYNC and Backstreet Boys as his earliest pop influences. “Those bands were kind of my ‘gateway drug’ into pop music. That kind of led to a love for ABBA and Madonna and Michael Jackson and kept branching out further from there. The more that I kept exploring pop music, the more that I

realized how much I loved it.” In late 2009, Curtis began work on the aforementioned 8Bit Heart. The album was released on March 23, 2010. The record featured synths, heavy bass lines and soaring pop vocals, very reminiscent of American Idol’s Adam Lambert or old-school Justin Timberlake. Must-listen tracks include club-ready “Beat Drop” and “Diablo,” which features clever tongue-in-cheek references to Kelly Clarkson and Britney Spears. While talking with MANIAC, Curtis made it very clear that all of the themes that appear throughout his music – love, loss, hopes, dreams, successes and failures - are based upon his own life. “Everything that I write is very autobiographical. Everything in 8Bit Heart is about specific people and specific instances and specific things that I was feeling. I use writing as my therapy. When you create an album, it kind of ends up being your diary where you vent about how you’ve been treated around that time and what you’ve gone through. For me as a songwriter, it’s all very transparent. It’s definitely autobiographical.” Following the success of 8Bit Heart, Curtis began work on his second studio effort. It was

decided that his second album was to be titled RA (stylized as “R∆”). The name stands for ‘Robot Army’ – the name that Curtis’ adoring fans have given themselves. R∆ is bite-yourbottom-lip sexy and darker than 8Bit Heart, something that is apparent on tracks like “Flesh” (“Hold me up against the wall/Give it ‘till I beg/Give me some more/Make me bleed, I like it raw/Like it R∆ R∆ R∆/Push up to my body, sink your teeth into my flesh”) and the perfectly-produced track named “Pit of Vipers” (“I use you/I’m no good/Need to be in control”), MANIAC’s favorite song off of the album. “R∆ is definitely a ‘bad boy’ album with songs that are just bad,” Curtis said with a laugh, “but not ‘bad’ in the sense of quality! Compared to the first album, it’s a lot more polished. It’s still electronic-dance-pop which is what I always want to make. It’s the kind of music that I love! We took a lot of influences from industrial music and dubstep, really dark areas of electronic music.” Make sure to check out one of MANIAC’s favorite new artists and download Simon Curtis’ R∆ on iTunes today. Trust us, this bad boy is going be the next big thing. 43

EXPOSÉ I spent an afternoon at the home of Bethany (who spoke with us on the condition that we would change her name and the names of her family to protect their identity), a woman whose life has been forever changed by a man that has been labeled a “Deadbeat Dad.” While I was reluctant to dredge up some unsavory memories, she was enduring, courageous and assertive. She and her children have been faced with adversity and have persevered. Bethany was just seven years old when the she met David, the boy next door. He had a cute smile and a bad boy attitude. They began a friendship that would eventually evolve into a relationship, and, at 15, they found themselves in love. They would often dream about the future and what it would be like to be married, have

home.” She quickly regains her composure and wipes the tears from her face. We continue with the interview. When Michael was nearly three years old, Bethany became pregnant again. She would again experience a lonely pregnancy as she cared for Michael on her own most days and wondered where David was when he didn’t come home at night. Their second child was a girl, Molly. Molly’s birth brought new hope for Bethany as she thought this time would be different. David was present at the hospital for the birth of his baby girl albeit drunk and belligerent. He would eventually disappear this time for weeks. While her friends were enjoying college life, Bethany was living in her old bedroom at her parent’s modest home with her two young

a result of his refusal to pay child support. Consequently, someone would post bail, and David would be a free man. A game of cat and mouse ensued until he fell off the radar in December 2009. He is believed to be working under the table to avoid any financial responsibility to his children. He currently owes more than $12,000 in child support payments, which will most likely never be paid. It is just then that I hear a sweet little voice call down the hall, “Is this okay, mom?” When I turn around to look, a precious little girl with long golden locks of hair is standing beside me. She flashes a smile and with a sense of pride asks her mom if she looks okay. It is Ella, all grown up and dressing herself for a much anticipated family picnic. I ask her if she has any recollection of her father. Being only seven

“The hardest part was watching the baby stare out the window waiting for his daddy to come home.”

DEADBEAT DADS B Y ni co l e w i ddo w so n

P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y k e l l i a nn be a v e r s

Most little girls fantasize about what her life will be like when she is older- who she is going to marry, what they will name their children, where they will live. Most people don’t dream of being a single parent, trying to raise three children on their own.

2.5 children and live in a big house with a white picket fence. At 17, Bethany was a straight A student in her senior year of high school, David was a high school dropout, and both learned that they were going to be first-time parents. Discovering that they were going to have a baby was great news for David as he had always expressed an interest in being a young dad and looked forward to the newfound responsibilities of raising a child. His enthusiasm would soon fade once the dream became a reality. Bethany quickly learned to juggle her unexpected pregnancy with the demands of her last year in high school. David found a job working as a cook at a local restaurant and earned minimum wage. The couple was living with Bethany’s parents and preparing for parenthood. Their first-born was a boy, Michael. Bethany traded her Friday nights out with the girls for evenings at home making bottles and changing diapers. David’s interest in being a daddy dissipated, preferring late-night partying with random women. Regardless of David’s disinterest, Becky was determined to be a family. That spring, she graduated from high school with honors and married David four months later. Michael was quickly growing and changing and David missed most of it. He was absent for the baby’s first words and not available when the toddler learned to read. Bethany was a teen mom married to a man who was completely disconnected. She was receiving all of her financial and emotional support from her devoted mother and father, with whom they would live for the next seven years. It is at this point in the interview where Bethany becomes silent. She is gazing out the window with a look of remembrance on her face. As her eyes well up with tears, she tells me “The hardest part was watching the baby stare out the window waiting for his daddy to come

children sharing the room beside her. David would rarely come home and found it very difficult to hold a job. I had the opportunity to spend some time with Molly during my interview. She is a vivacious, enthusiastic and resilient 13 yearold. When asked what she remembered most about her father, she replied “He was never there- not for my chorus concerts, not for birthdays, he missed everything.” As time went on, David would come into their lives, and he would go. Each time he would return, Bethany would take him in, holding onto the hope that he was a changed man. Eventually their family of four moved out of her parent’s home, and into their own. It was then that she discovered she would be a mother for a third time. The birth of Ella brought worry and uncertainty. Becky truly wanted her marriage to work and to be a functional family. She believed that over time, David would emerge into the husband and father she always wanted him to be. David’s behavior worsened and he became reckless and dangerous. Ultimately, David would find himself trapped in a world of depression and drug addiction. “I just wanted him to be normal,” proclaims Molly, who is wise beyond her years. I sit across from her, hanging onto every word. When I ask her how her father’s absence has affected her, she tells me “It’s just different, that’s all.” When I ask her about her brother, Michael, she tells me that he struggles daily with the void that was left by their dad. Becky declines my request to speak with Michael due to the calamitous nature of the interview. After more than ten years, the marriage based on lying, cheating, hurt and abuse came to an end. David walked out the door one last time, in January 2007. Bethany filed for divorce two years later. David’s new home became a jail cell as

years old, she gives me a look of confusion and says with conviction, “Of course I do, this is my daddy!” pointing to a man in the next room. Bethany was remarried the previous year to Matt, a man with three children of his own. During my visit to their home, I learned that not all deadbeats are dads, they are also mothers. Matt’s children come from a single-parent home, and he has been their sole provider since a very young age. It is now that the two families have come together, and the tale of pain and despair ends. Bethany and Matt welcomed a new life into the world December 2010. They are a family of nine: seven children, one mom...one dad. I begin to wrap up the interview, and ask Molly one last question, “Do you ever wonder why your dad doesn’t want to be a part of your life?” She pauses, and then confidently replies, “No, I just know. He has no responsibility for anyone or anything but himself.” I thank the family for their time and allowing me a glimpse into their lives. A house that was built out of heartache and sorrow, is now a home filled with sanctity and love.

EVENT

MANIAC EVENTS

WINE ON WHITE PARTY: THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE

BY cody wi egand PHOTOGRAPHY BY bi l l s c h m it t , b r u c e m . st raka, robert hes ter and c o d y w ie g a n d

Guests ditched their color palettes at the door and dressed in all white attire for MANIAC Magazine’s June/July launch party. The soiree was held at the Wine Loft, located at SouthSide Works, and everyone let loose to celebrate the latest issue. Attendees looked spotless and stunning as they socialized, sipped the finest wines and nibbled on hors d’oeuvres from some of our favorite companies. Pizza Sola brought their infamous pizza for everyone to enjoy, including delectable styles such as Marghertia, Jimmy the Saint, Greco and many more. Thanks to our friends at Savoy (where the last launch party was held) and Ty Kerstetter, guests drank mini martinis and the Wine Loft provided us with samples of their best selection of wines. A big event like this calls for some big names, and there were plenty to go around. Documentarian and writer Todd Gallagher was in attendance, along with Brush Footwear’s Ben Smith, and Iron City President Ed Lozano. The guest list wasn’t the only thing to rave about, the décor and atmosphere of the Wine Loft was spot-on as well. Elaborate, white tents from Elite Party Tents (elitepartytents.com)

gave shade to guests as they sat around tables equipped with linens and centerpieced with beautiful bouquets of white lilies. Hanging baskets of various flowers dangled over tables full of bottled wine and food for our guests to sample. For ultimate, mouth-watering perfection, a pairing list lay on each table coupling the best wine and pizza combos. Indoors, VIP-like couches stretched around the restaurant creating a sea of white. Chocolate-lovers were in awe of the massive chocolate fountain, stocked with cherries, bananas, pretzels and marshmallows to dip. When night fell, bright lights around the tents shinned as the music grew louder and MANIACS began to head for the dance floor. The crowd experienced the ultimate celebrity feeling as they lined up for the step-and-repeat, where shutterbugs captured their model-esque appearance. The only thing bigger and brighter than the full moon that night was the personalities at the Wine on White Party. We truly couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful night or a better time.

MANIAC EVENTS

EVENT

STYLE

CUT FROM A DIFFERENT CLOTH:

BRITTNEY THIEROFF SCHOOLS US IN STYLE.

BY c o d y w ie g a n d PH O T O G R APH Y B Y a p r il h u b a l

Brittney Thieroff is the lead merchandising stylist at ModCloth.com, the online clothing, accessory, and décor retailer that caters to those with a love for the vintage and retro look. This company is like no other, allowing its customers to choose potential inventory through an interactive feature called ‘Be the Buyer’ and through social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook. ModCloth.com is growing so quickly, keeping Brittney on her toes at all times. Although she is very busy with work, and her job can be challenging, Brittney says she loves every bit of it. Before becoming a stylist, Brittney began her fashion education at Istituto di Moda Burgo in Milan. She then went on to receive her bachelor’s degree in fashion design from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. The level of Brittney’s talent shined so bright at FIT that she was chosen to finish her last year of school at Polimoda in Florence, Italy, where she graduated. Although her degree is in design, she is thriving as a stylist. Put simply, she couldn’t imagine doing anything else. “I’m having such unique experiences working there and I’m so grateful for that. I couldn’t imagine sitting at a desk and doing the same thing day in, day out. As long as I’m working with, and am surrounded by beautiful clothing, I’m a happy girl,” gushes Brittney. The world of fashion has always been an interest of Brittney’s and is something that she naturally gravitated towards. As a well-seasoned jet-setter, Brittney says that she is most inspired by her travels around the world. “People are also such interesting creatures. I find that they have a lot of influence on my ideas.” Perhaps it was those people who influenced Brittney’s look the most. The style queen describes her personal taste as a “marriage of Rue McCLanahan, Bea Arthur and Madonna circa 1986.” Pittsburgh is home to a variety of clothing stores and boutiques, and Brittney has a few favorite places to shop and add to her unique wardrobe. The most obvious, of course, is ModCloth.com, but other stores on top of that list include Eons, Red, White and Blue, and the Ohio River Antique. This fashionista also like to visit boutiques in her neighborhood of Lawrenceville, like Pageboy and Pavement. Armed with a top-notch education and killer experience, Brittney has some advice that she wants to relay to us MANIACS. She believes that the absolute most important thing for people to remember is to dress in silhouettes that are flattering to their body type and to wear clothing that best represents their personality. “Put your outfits together in your own unique way. Coordinating head to toe is so boring, and lacks individuality so that’s a big no-no in my opinion. You should always ask yourself if what you’re wearing best represents how you feel and how you want the world to perceive you. Then you just have to be brave and own it.” 51

MANIAC JET-SET

JET-SET

JET SET BRA ZIL BY s us i e mei s ter P HOTOGRA P HY BY sarah rice

Rio de Janeriro Brazilian architect of The Niterói Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC), Oscar Niemeyer, is known as a pioneer for exploring the formal possibilities of reinforced concrete solely for their aesthetic impact. Among other works internationally, Niemeyer also designed the United Nations Headquarters in New York City. “It is not the right angle that attracts me, nor the straight line, hard and inflexible, created by man. What attracts me is the free and sensual curve — the curve that I find in the mountains of my country, in the sinuous course of its rivers, in the body of the beloved woman.” -Oscar Niemeyer, Architect, The Niterói Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC)

I had heard many warnings about Brazil. I had been told to keep an eye on my valuables, to be prepared for catcalls from the blonde-loving Brazilian men, and to wear lots of sunblock. The warnings, while helpful, did not prepare me for the potential to fall in love. I stayed in Rio de Janeiro for four weeks and this white-sand paradise and her people stole my heart. In the next few years, Rio will be host to the World Cup and the 2016 Summer Olympics. Its reputation as a dangerous destination that is good only for a Carnival getaway is antiquated and inaccurate. Despite traveling there during the low tourist season, Rio remained lively and vibrant. 53

MANIAC JET-SET

Ipanema Beach

Christ the Redeemer

It took about a week, but I finally got the smooth bossa nova hit, “Girl from Ipanema” out about of my head. It’s infectious melody slithers into your subconscious much like the beach after which it is named. Situated between Rio’s famed Copacabana Beach and the highbrow Leblon area of town, Ipanema is filled with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying volleyball and its many Brazilian variations such as futevolei (volleyball placed without hands), peteca (a cross between volleyball and badminton), and frescobol (a type of paddleball). The waves are often perfect for experienced surfers and brave beginners, but beware, Brazilians seem to surf in the same haphazard way that they drive! The Brazilian commitment to physical fitness and their worship of the beach is apparent, and even the older population can be found running on Rio’s famous mosaic tiles along the sand. The beach acts as a magnet, pulling Rio residents, or cariocas, out to play whenever the sun is shining (which is often). Along Ipanema Beach you will find a variety of cuisines to enjoy including many Italian, Japanese, and American spots. The menus frequently only sell wine by the bottle, which if you ask me, is a brilliant idea. If the food and drink don’t suit you, the music surely will. Brazilian street musicians can often be found walking the streets serenading passersby with their samba music.

No trip to Rio de Janeiro is complete without a trip to the mountain of Corcovado (“hunchback”) to see the Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor) statue. Towering over the city atop its mountain home, this 130 ft. statue is a site to behold. Visible from all around Rio, the Christ the Redeemer statue speaks to Brazil’s Catholic heritage and beckons visitors to make the trek up to see a breathtaking view of Rio. Obviously a top tourist attraction, visiting in the off-peak time is undoubtedly more enjoyable. The breeze on the mountain and the sun reflecting off the water below make for a peaceful experience. Christ the Redeemer appears to be a single mass of soapstone, however, upon closer inspection, one can see that it is comprised of many tiny pieces. In a country that was once a Catholic stronghold, I couldn’t help but see the symbolism in those tiny pieces of the variety of religious traditions that are now present and thriving in Brazil. What appears to be one is actually comprised of many. Even if you choose not to visit the statue, you cannot help but see it. At night, the illuminated statue acts as a beacon throughout the city. Its size and placement make it a unique element to the Rio landscape. While tourist spots can be trite and disappointing, this one is worth the trip.

Adjacent to the equally famous Copacabana, Ipanema beach is situated in the southern region of Rio. Ipanema gained national fame with the release of the song, “The Girl from Ipanema,” in 1962. Known for its elegance and social qualities, Ipanema beach has been dubbed, “the sexiest beach in the world.”

JET-SET

Ipanema Hippie Fair If you don’t fancy the beach there is plenty else to do in Rio. Just a few blocks from Ipanema Beach is an expansive and eclectic market called Feira de Arte de Ipanema, but most just call it the hippie fair. No hippies were to be found, but there was plenty to look at nonetheless. While many cultures (including our own) embraced the solar system and its pagan gods in naming the days of the week (Moon Day, Thor’s Day etc…), Brazil used Catholicism and the market as a guide with each day named after its correlating day of the fair (e.g. Monday is Segunda-Feira or the second day of the fair). This speaks to their religious traditions and the importance of the fairs in Brazilian culture. The Hippie Fair, held all day each Sunday, is a massive labyrinth of stalls with goods ranging from high-quality jewelry and pottery to tourist-style tchotkes and t-shirts. Whether you’re looking for artwork, leather goods, or even musical instruments, the Hippie Fair has all that you seek. Even if you’re not on the market for a purchase, watching artists create their wares is worth the stroll.

Long gone are the days when the Ipanema Hippie fair was actually hosted by Hippies in the 1960’s to peddle crafts and (whatever else Hippies were peddling). For more than 50 years, the Ipanema Hippie Fair has been held on Sundays, rain or shine. Tourists make this a mandatory stop during their exploration of Rio where they can find leather goods, paintings, t-shirts and various other artisan goods. OPPOSITE PAGE : On July 7, 2007, Christ the Redeemer was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in a list compiled by the Swiss-based The New Open World Corporation

Known as the most affluent neighborhood in Rio, Leblon has the highest land prices in Brazil and Latin America. Although you are more likely to see high-rise apartments now than the beautiful homes that once defined Leblon, visitors can bask in the renaissance of the area including the recent outcropping of high-end boutiques and eateries.

Leblon Spot Design Hostel I know MANIACs usually prefer some fancy digs during their vacations, but sometimes you need to save your pennies for surf lessons or a killer dress, and for you I offer the Leblon Spot Design Hostel. As a world traveler on a budget, I have stayed in a number of youth hostels, and they are typically crowded, loud, and gritty. This hostel is anything but. Leblon Spot is situated a few blocks from the white sandy beach and surrounded by high-end boutiques and restaurants. They offer private suites as well as cheaper group rooms, and all for under about $90 USD, which includes a delicious breakfast. The rooms are clean and there is a lounge/TV area and outdoor patio where you can read or work on your computer (WiFi is included). I usually like to bookend my trips with swanky hotels, but in-between, when I’m spending my cash on excursions and shopping, I like to stay more simply. Thanks to places like Leblon Spot, I can save a few bucks without sacrificing my standards. You will not be disappointed with this affordable option.

Niterói Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC) There are some museums that you go to because they house a piece that you’ve wanted to see in-person your whole life. Then there’s the Museu do Arte Contemporânea de Niterói. A ferryboat ride away from Rio, the museum is situated across the bay from Rio and offers spectacular views of the city. While the museum holds about 1,000 pieces, the building itself is the main attraction. Designed by famed architect, Oscar Niemeyer, the building resembles something from “Star Trek.” Its round centerpiece is planted in a water bath below making the whole building appear like a flower overlooking the water. There are wide shelves around the inside of the circle where museum-goers can sit and peer over the bay. Below the main area is a bistro with food and drink to satisfy visitors after viewing the interesting and imaginative art. Even the music piped into the bistro brings a Brazilian flair to otherwise drab American light-rock favorites. While it took me a week to rid myself of the infectious tune of “Girl from Ipanema,” I believe it will take me much longer to shake the magical feeling of the samba-infused, cultural cornucopia of Rio de Janiero. 55

EVENT

MANIAC EVENTS

GLITZBURGH: GL AMOUR MEETS GIVING, A BLACK AND GOLD AFFAIR BY domi ni c j ani da s P HOTOGRAP HY B Y k a t e l yn petrai ti s & al l i s on e va n s

The Glitzburgh crew was at it again for their second annual Glitzburgh: Glamour Meets Giving, A Black & Gold Affair in support of Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. Of course, Maniac had front row seats to it all! This amazing charity fashion show highlighted some of Pittsburgh’s best and brightest in the fashion and music scenes. On Sunday May 22nd, Whim Pittsburgh was home to some of the biggest name celebrities in music, sports, fashion, TV and radio. The Who’s Who of celebs took to the runway to show off the looks of Anna DeLattre, Troy Beck, Dead Bury Dead, ModCloth, Stella & Dot, Jewelry N’At, Reflect Apparel and even student designers from Kent State University and the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. The local university students who put the show together broke their $14,000 donation record from the first ever Glitzburgh in 2010, by raising a total of $20,000 for Children’s Hospital, with 500 people in attendance! Even KISS FM’s Tall Cathy showed up to get her glitz on and watch the show! Here at Maniac, we were so touched to be involved and just be in the same room with all that Pittsburgh support. Emceeing the evening was WPXI’s Vince

Sims and spinning the hottest tracks all night was Harold “DJ H” Purdy. The fashion show boasted two live musical performances by some Maniac favorites, including local rockers, These Lions. There was even a live auction at the end of the fashion show conducted by James Harrison himself (who also doubled as a model for the night)! The silent auction included amazing prizes like U2 tickets; a personal chef for the night compliments of culinary consultant Renee Jara, priceless sports memorabilia and a bottle of Glitzburgh wine donated from Engine House 25 Winery! Glitzburgh 2011 was a huge success thanks to the support of amazing sponsors that included The Orion Management Group, Iron City, Red Bull, Medco Commercial Management Group, Advanced Pain Medicine, Jason Glance, Brannon Wellington, and The James Harrison Family Foundation (just to name a few), Glitzburgh 2011 was a major success! In our eyes, there’s nothing better than seeing our little Maniacs giving back to the community they call home. We can’t wait for next year’s Glitzburgh! After all, what could be better than fashion and philanthropy?

THE RISE OF

FALL

P HOTOGRA P HY BY a pri l hubal S TYLED BY k ri s ti na c hanel s uk amto HA IR & M A K EUP BY g i l al dri n

Necklaces by JewelMint Opposite Page: Dess by Olcay Gulsen

Dress by Ruby Opposite Page: Hat by Pendelton for Opening Ceremony, tank by Balenciaga, pants by Ruby, cuff by Bottega Veneta

Top by Ruby, pants by Supertrash

Jacket by Supertrash, shorts by Missoni, headscarf by Supertrash Opposite Page: Dress by Supertrash

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MANIAC BEAUT Y

THE BUTTER RING GOES BRIDAL

B Y ka t herine reel

Back to SchoolGIRL CHIC School is back in session and you’re an A+ when it comes to looking good. But remember, MANIAC beauty is all about having the smarts and the sass to complete the package. We’ve studied some of the latest and greatest for you savvy shoppers. Armed with this bevy of products, you’ll be sure to show everyone you’re the hot girl on campus.

Big, tousled hair is back, think 80’s but more refined. With 4. Big Sexy Hair Volumizing Dry Shampoo and 5. Paul Mitchell Tools Teasing Brush, you don’t have to be a graduate of beauty school to take your volume to the next level. Dry shampoo applied at the roots adds instant lift for flat hair. Add a touch of tease at the crown to turn up the glam factor. A regular skincare routine will help fight the aging caused by stress, so maintain your freshman glow with 10. Lancôme Genifique Youth Activating Concentrate. Since you’ll be burning the midnight oil poring over curriculum, 9. Olay Total Effects Dark Circle Minimizing Brush is a moisturizing, lightly tinted remedy to keep you looking fresh and awake. Hectic schedules can take a visible toll on your face; create an alluring, healthy flush with 3. Mally Believable Bronzer Skin Warming Kit in Sexy Golden Tan. 68

Sculpt the perfect pout with 1. Cinema Secrets Ultimate Lip Liners, shown in Neked, Lake and Persimmon. Just be sure to never line further than 1/8” outside the natural lip line. Wanna change lip colors in a flash? The purse-friendly 8. Graftobian Lipcolor Fashion Palette has enough options to take you from the classroom to the soiree. Your mind is sharp, but are your brows? Define those arches with 7. Anastasia Brow Powder Duo shown in Brunette. For a special night out, give your eyes the maximum flirt potential with 2. Mac Fake Lashes #20. Demi-lashes are much easier to apply and more natural in appearance. Lastly, you can never go wrong with berry nail color for fall, such as 10. Essie Nail Lacquer in It’s Genius. You’ll have everyone wrapped around your finger in no time.

6 5

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MANIAC GUIDE BY ka itlin bu sch PHOTOGRAPHY BY cod y wi egand

THE BEST PL ACES TO BLOW OFF CLASS

TIRED OF STUDYING?

As any MANIAC knows, it’s a tough transition from a carefree summer to an intense back-to-school fall. Who wants to sit in a lecture or a lab when the sun is still shining in Pittsburgh anyway? Whether you need a break from the class you’ve waited until the last possible semester to take, or if you just need an escape from the everyday school routine, these four local hotspots will take your mind off of work and allow for a little time to play.

The andy warhol museum

The SHOPS AT BUTLER STREET

DOUBLE WIDE GRILL

ARSENAL BOWLING LANES

Even though you’re blowing off class, you might end up learning a thing or two at The Warhol. A quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, the museum is home to Andy Warhol’s famous drawings, paintings and installations. It’s always relaxing and enjoyable to study his Pop Art works of genius like the Campbell’s Soup Cans, Brillo Boxes and silkscreen prints of Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley. Explore the six floors of gallery space, each floor displaying everything from paintings and self-portraits to sculptures and film. The museum is constantly adding to and updating its collections and it brings in distinct exhibitions throughout the year. It will launch its third exhibition in The Word of God series, The Word of God(ess): Chitra Ganesh, on July 9 and will be on display through September 4. The exhibit will feature Chitra Ganesh’s take on Hinduism through her animated artwork, which tells racy tales of sexuality and power. If you’re looking for a more social experience, the museum presents Good Friday. This event takes place every Friday night form 5-10 p.m. and offers half-price regular admission and a cash bar in the entrance gallery. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy a cocktail or two while taking in the ambiance of the Andy Warhol galleries?

If you have the back-to-school blues, MANIAC has the perfect cure for you—a little retail therapy. Remember, a new pair of heels or the perfect little black dress can help heal the blow of a flunked chemistry test. So head down to Butler Street in Lawrenceville and explore tons of amazing boutiques and home furnishing stores. Even if you’re already up to your neck in student loans and don’t have a lot of money to spend, you can still relax and refocus by window shopping. Or you can grab a cup of coffee with a friend and take in the hipster fashion scene from the passersby on the street. Butler Street is a great place to shop because there are no chain stores—each shop, studio and art gallery is unique and independently owned. Stop by Sugar Boutique for the latest fashion trends from independent and even local designers and be sure to look through its great selection of jewelry. The shop offers everything from fits-just-right white tees to dazzling dresses and colorful clutches. Plus, you can feel like you’ve touched a piece of Hollywood since the boutique is featured in a scene from the movie She’s Out of My League. Whether you’re looking for the latest in clothing, furniture or art Butler Street will satisfy your desire.

A vintage gas station turned South Side restaurant, the Double Wide is the place to go to eat, drink and play. Garage doors serve as the walls to the Pittsburgh original and are left open, weather permitting, making it a suitable replacement for the classroom and the perfect place to spend the afternoon. The full bar has 36 beers on tap, so if you’re not in class, you might as well enjoy Happy Hour from 4-6 p.m. on weekdays when all drafts are a dollar off. The restaurant offers some of the best outdoor seating around with a huge patio where you can sit and gossip with your friends on a large picnic table and enjoy a frozen Mojito or a Bloody Mary. So sit back, relax, kick off your heels and enjoy the show. And by show, we mean people watching on the always hopping East Carson Street. For those who like to unwind with a little competition, the patio is complete with Cornhole, the ideal outdoor game. Be sure to grab a bite to eat, the restaurant is known for its barbecue, vegetarian and vegan cuisine and the food is delicious. No matter how you spend your time at the Double Wide, you will leave feeling stress-free and recharged.

For some good, old-fashioned fun with a modern, hip vibe head to Arsenal Bowling Lanes. With its Cheers-esqe feel and vintage style, the bowling alley offers an alternative to the typical bar scene. It’s never too crowded and you won’t have to worry about anyone spilling a drink on you. And no need to worry about what shoes to wear with your outfit of choice, you’ll end up in those silly bowling shoes that make everyone look like a clown anyways. The atmosphere is upbeat and trendy, with good lighting and an even better sound system. The inside of the building itself has withstood the test of time with its exposed brick walls and oak lanes. This place has character. The entire 22-lane bowling alley is located on the second floor of the building and the bar, better known as the Upstairs Saloon, serves up some fabulous cocktails. Tuesday night is college night, so be sure to bring your license and student id to bowl for 50 cents per game and enjoy 50 cent drafts. If the night gets a little crazy, Wednesday may be a good day to blow off class, not that we’re promoting such a thing. Even if you’re not an avid bowler, chances are you’ll still have a good time at Arsenal.

117 Sandusky Street l Pittsburgh, PA 15212 412.237.8300 l www.warhol.org

guide

Butler Street l Lawrenceville, PA 15201 www.livepgh.com/shop

2339 East Carson Street l Pittsburgh, PA 15203 412.390.1111 l www.doublewidegrill.com

212 44th Street l Pittsburgh, PA 15201 412.683.5992 l www.arsenalbowl.com

SEX

LONG DISTANCE RELATIONSHIPS SHOULD YOU WALK 1000 MILES FOR LOVE? BY chri s s y perki ns

STARTED BUT NEED IMAGES FROM APRIL TO FINISH

Long-distance relationships can work. made to talk and two people go about their Besides, it’s only temporary. Eventually, you’ll individual lives, there’s a lot that is missing. S/he be together. Do they take extra effort? Surely. didn’t inform you of their schedule or availability, But relationships in general take effort. When which means opportunity toward being able partners choose to be together in a committed to communicate is lost. Furthermore, lack of relationship, you’re talking about combining communication means lack of trust. Impeding the lives of individuals who have grown up upon the foundation is a recipe for disaster. with different backgrounds, different values, Communication also comes into play when different life styles, and so forth. Figuring out arranging times of visitation, how long one a compromising, mutually satisfying, middle can go without seeing the other, discussions ground in a variety of aspects often proves to of how long the arrangement will be as such, be a challenge in any relationship. Therefore, what is comfortable for the both of you, etc. distance is just another factor one has to work You absolutely need to address all of your through to a compromise. worries, issues, or anything that might concern Whether you are contemplating being in, you about the distance/problems you’re getting out of, or continuing long-distance, there going through. And you should address them are a few things you should consider. First, and before they happen as well as when they are foremost, you need to evaluate your level of happening (without hesitation). Granted, there trust with yourself and with the relationship. Do is a time and place for everything, but it is up you trust your partner? Do you trust yourself? to you to make that time and place happen; Do you have trust in the relationship? Trust is especially if you feel your partner isn’t. Each the absolute foundation! They don’t need to individual is in charge of his or her own personal know your every thought, but knowing (and happiness. How you achieve it is up to you. trusting) that reliability, strength, and truthfulness In addition to considering your are present is important. Plus it eases a lot of communication patterns and trust levels, you tension. You won’t be questioning your partner’s should also consider your sexual drive/desire. every move, sentence and times of business. Depending on how often you want, need, or They also won’t be constantly questioning yours; prefer to have an intimate connection will which is a definite stress saver for you both! certainly play a role in how the relationship will Trust is built with communication. Whenever play out when distance is involved. Physicality you are feeling hurt, happy, sad, thrilled, is the separating factor between friendship and unbalanced, and so forth, you should be able partnership. When managing a long distance to tell your partner. It is important to be able to relationship, you need to manage your libido a express your emotions. It’s really nice to share little better. Let’s say that you are highly sexually moments of excitement. It’s also really nice to active and your partner isn’t as into it as you are. feel comfortable expressing your unhappiness, While you are apart, you will need to understand whether that is about him/her or not. How are how much time will be spent in distance and you supposed to work through issues without how you will occupy yourself during times of communicating? Communicating happens in desire and s/he isn’t there. This talk will ease two formats: verbal and non-verbal. Non-verbal your partner, and you, because eliminating would include affection, observation, feeling a potential someone else to fulfill what your each other’s energy face-to-face, etc. When partner can’t while s/he isn’t there won’t be you don’t have the ability to communicate thought of or necessary. non-verbally, you need to communicate verbally Trust, communication, and sex drive/ even more so. Skype has become a wonderful desire are three big aspects of a relationship to addition to our society. Even though you can’t evaluate before getting into, staying in, or getting be present to be affectionate, you have more out of a long distance commitment. There opportunity to read body language and eye are, of course, other factors that play into your contact. That will certainly assist your verbal decision, but without evaluating your foundation communication by having more time to talk you’ll be floundering without answers. Having about feelings instead of asking questions to answers saves a lot of time and stress as gauge how someone else is feeling (because you well. Relationships are not easy, regardless of can’t see them). whether they are long distance or not. There are Verbal communication takes a decent all sorts of factors that contribute to people who amount of time to perfect for any friend, lover, live within close parameters, just as there are for or family member. When it comes to distance, those who live apart for extended periods. Make it is imperative to work out times to talk, learn sure you are treated well, with respect and with more about one another, and maintain what you value. already have. Any questions or concerns about At all times, you must keep communication your boundaries, needs, or desires, you should open. Amongst trust and sex drive, there is not have any problem discussing them with your love. Whether you are in love, falling in love, partner. You two are supposed to work together or confused as to why you are still in the toward a happy, healthy relationship. That is relationship – love is always present. Although only possible if you both discuss what you need it does not hold immense power, it definitely in order to have that happen. When time isn’t contributes to whether you stay or go. Long

distance isn’t for everyone, especially depending on the amount of time your partner needs to be gone for (or how often). But by evaluating your trust, communication, and sexual desires you will have a much easier time knowing if this is something that is right for you. If there are outside factors, most certainly take those into consideration as well. These are simply three basic concepts, that without them it is much more difficult relationship to function in.

IV Vitamin Infusions Something to take in vain

B Y am esh a. ad al j a, m d

that are receiving IV infusions of vitamin C are not those who are deficient in the vitamin, unable to absorb the vitamin orally, or with any specific condition. They are primarily those with symptoms of fatigue or those trying to “replenish” themselves. There are no rigorously conducted studies that show any benefit of IV vitamin C to those who are not ill, but seeking energy, wellness, or the like. There are trials and protocols for the use of IV vitamin C for the treatment of cancer and other serious illnesses, but these studies cannot be extrapolated to healthy individuals.

Are There Dangers?

Among the myriad of antiThough vitamin C infusions are generally aging and replenishment safe, there are several adverse events that rituals that are marketed can occur. One of the byproducts of vitamin today, intravenous (IV) C metabolism is oxalate, a substance which vitamin infusion—principally can form kidney stones and damage the vitamin C—is touted as kidney. Also, those people with two genetic diseases (glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase a means “to replenish deficiency/ G6PD and paroxysmal nocturnal and preserve your organ hemoglobinuria/PNH) are prone to serious reserves.” Is there any complications including the destruction of the evidence that prophylactic oxygen-carrying red blood cells with high doses vitamin infusions are of of vitamin C. any benefit to healthy do I use IV Vitamin individuals? Does IV vitamin When C pose a danger or is it just Infusions in Patients? a waste of money? There are only a few scenarios in which I, personally, administer IV vitamins to a patient. These occasions include: •Patients whose intestines will not absorb vitamins reliably Vitamin C, ascorbic acid, is a vital nutrient •Those with suspected nutritional deficiency for organisms, many of which are able to (e.g. chronic alcoholics may be deficient in synthesize it on their own. Humans, as members the vitamins thiamine and/or folic acid) of the primate suborder Haplorhini, are unable •Those with specific overdoses of to perform this action and must solely rely on acetaminophen or isoniazid may benefit from nutritional sources to obtain this vital substance. vitamin B6 infusions Vitamin C has several functions which include (but are not limited to): being an IV Vitamin Infusions important cofactor for the biosynthesis of several Should Not be A Routine molecules (including collagen) and being an Health Maintenance important anti-oxidant (an anti-oxidant is a Activity substance that can prevent cellular damage caused by a specific type of harmful molecule). Although I strongly believe that a person When a human is deficient in vitamin C, a has the right to use IV vitamin formulations for condition known as scurvy occurs. Scurvy is whatever reason they choose, I do not believe characterized by weak collagen throughout the its use is justified based on the dearth of body which causes spongy gums, loose teeth, evidence supporting their benefit. In most cases bleeding, poor wound healing, and blotches on of vitamin infusions, the person is not harmed the skin and can eventually progress to death. and may feel subjectively better from a strong In the developed world, scurvy and vitamin C placebo effect but has likely squandered money deficiency is rare. on a practice that provides no real benefit.

Vitamin C Role in the Human Body

Does High-dose Vitamin C Have Any Benefit in Healthy Individuals?

Dr. Adalja, a clinical assistant professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, is board certified in Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Infectious Diseases, and Critical Care While vitamin C supplementation in those Medicine. He can be reached via email at: who are deficient is clearly beneficial, the people AmeshAA@aol.com.

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