MINT Magazine: Winter 2015 by MINT Magazine

the HATS

OFF issue EDITOR IN CHIEF Ashley Overbeek

ART DIRECTOR Emma Coleman

DESIGN DIRECTOR Diana Zhao

WRITING DIRECTORS

Karina El Baze Villanueva Zabreen Khan

PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTORS Sharon Lee Sydney Maples

COPY EDITOR

Carly Olszewski

MODELING DIRECTORS Lillian Lao Chris Lucas

WEB DIRECTORS Jessie Alvarez Ana Carolina Mexia

DESIGNERS

Andrea Rodriguez Emma Fiander Lauren Kwa Eli Margolin

SOCIAL MEDIA

Sarah Ortlip-Sommers

EVENT PLANNING Hannah Karpel Ashley Akinola

SPONSORSHIPS Irene Jeon

FINANCIAL OFFICER Momota Imai

the HATS

OFF issue EDITOR IN CHIEF Ashley Overbeek

ART DIRECTOR Emma Coleman

DESIGN DIRECTOR Diana Zhao

WRITING DIRECTORS

Karina El Baze Villanueva Zabreen Khan

PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTORS Sharon Lee Sydney Maples

COPY EDITOR

Carly Olszewski

MODELING DIRECTORS Lillian Lao Chris Lucas

WEB DIRECTORS Jessie Alvarez Ana Carolina Mexia

DESIGNERS

Andrea Rodriguez Emma Fiander Lauren Kwa Eli Margolin

SOCIAL MEDIA

Sarah Ortlip-Sommers

EVENT PLANNING Hannah Karpel Ashley Akinola

SPONSORSHIPS Irene Jeon

FINANCIAL OFFICER Momota Imai

the hikes of california is normcore fashion? when fashion meets minimalism women in stem should fight for their style how yik yak became the talk of the town form follows fashion athleisurewear bow down bitches norcal vs. socal models on instagram the misadventures of a bikeless girl making high fashion accessible lumbersexual outfitgrids say who you are without saying a word brewed or steeped beyond the uniform learning to knit fifty shades of grey layers silence, distance, listen

contents

winter 2015

contents

winter 2015

THE HIKES OF Whether you’re looking to take a road trip and go on a new adventure, or simply learn about some of the golden state’s sweet spots, check out MINT’s list of the best hikes in Central and Southern California.

CALIFORNIA by Carly Olszewski

(37.745919, -119.533199) Half Dome - Yosemite National Park

Half Dome is the signature hike of Yosemite National Park. At an elevation of 8,842 feet, only the true adventurers have the guts to climb up the cables and reach a view unlike any other. There are several routes to the top, including a popular 16-mile day hike. Along the way you will pass beautiful waterfalls, forests, and wildlife.

(33.873415, -115.900992) Joshua Tree National Park

Whether you’re going camping or just climbing up the rocks to watch the sunrise, the desert land of Joshua Tree is a must see. One of Joshua Tree’s most popular features is its late-night star gazing, being one of the select few locations in the U.S. that allow viewers to see the sky in its “natural, unpolluted state.”

(33.498262, -117.740209) 1000 Steps Beach - Laguna Beach

There’s only one way into and only one way out of this “secret” SoCal beach. Once you find the hidden entrance off of 9th and PCH, hike down 19 flights of stairs and see for yourself why this beach is called the “Stairway to Heaven.” Come early in the morning and join those running up and down the steep stairway. Then, relax at the bottom for a more private beachy vibe, and walk along the sand to see the many luxurious homes atop the cliff. Be sure to reach the caves at the end of the beach, as there lay small natural hot tub on the other side.

(32.889556, -117.253649) Black’s Beach - La Jolla

300 feet below the San Diego bluffs lay a clean, secluded beach. Take this quick hike down the stairs to reach the Pacific. But bewarepart of this beach is a nudist beach! On the steep hike back to the top, be sure to watch the gliders from Tory Pine’s Gliderport.

(37.745919, -119.533199) Half Dome - Yosemite National Park

(33.873415, -115.900992) Joshua Tree National Park

(33.498262, -117.740209) 1000 Steps Beach - Laguna Beach

(32.889556, -117.253649) Black’s Beach - La Jolla

(34.471914, -119.714268) Inspiration Point - Santa Barbara

This 7.5-mile round trip hike is famous for its panoramic view. From this peak of the San Ynez Mountains, you’ll get a truly inspirational picture of California. This hike isn’t as easy as the Stanford DISH, but you are sure to pass many Santa Barbara students along the way!

(34.182738, -117.677822) Mount Baldy - Upland

Apart from ski routes, there are many hiking trails at Mount Baldy of San Bernardino County. One such trail, “Devil’s Backbone,” reaches a 10,064 foot summit, which is the highest peak of the San Gabriel Mountains.

(34.165563, -117.692556) Potato Mountain - Upland

This four-mile round trip hike is short and steep! Hike to the top and relax on the platform to enjoy one of the best views of the Inland Empire. Don’t forget to join the local hikers’ joke and leave a potato at the top.

(34.096676, -117.719779) Claremont

There are many trails that run through the small town of Claremont, California. Rather than leading to a peak or grand view at the top, these trails are generally more scenic and open, offering beautiful views throughout. You are accompanied the entire way by deer, prairies, and the breathtaking presence of the mountains.

(34.471914, -119.714268) Inspiration Point - Santa Barbara

(34.182738, -117.677822) Mount Baldy - Upland

(34.165563, -117.692556) Potato Mountain - Upland

(34.096676, -117.719779) Claremont

Is NORM

CORE The fashion industry is one of the most pretentious worlds that one can stumble upon. From outrageous, unwearable looks on the runway that illicit endless praise from magazines and bloggers alike, to street style peacocks who try so hard to be different that they end up taking on the guise of aliens, it is understandable that many fashion mavens might have felt disenchanted by the extravagance of the fashion world. They might have looked for a way to embrace normalcy without seeming fashionably inept. Thus, “normcore” was born. The term began cropping up in late 2013, signifying an aesthetic of being purposefully bland in one’s wardrobe choices. It was a way for everyone to deliberately adopt anonymity and sameness. This meant that style was no longer an effort to achieve individuality, but a contest to see who could look like they cared less. The look involves a lot of Uniqlo khakis, Patagonia pullovers, and New Balance sneakers, as well as delving into an even more non-descript “dad attire.” As a result, most of the outfits produced are blank, uninspiring, and boring. Normcore continues to enjoy huge success. There is nothing inherently wrong with normcore. Like all styles, nomcore is a personal choice, and a trendy one at that. However, to call normcore a fashion movement would be a stretch. Fashion is art made wearable; normcore is clothing. Fashion is individuality; normcore is uniformity. Most importantly, fashion is caring about the way one looks, while

fashion? by Emma Fiander

normcore is apathetic in that regard. Normcore is not fashion– it’s anti-fashion. This is not an attack on normcore. It’s not my favorite style, but I do understand the appeal. Trying to keep up with trends (even if it’s just on a basis of avoiding them), constantly looking for ways to innovate old pieces, going so far out of the way to be different that one ends up forgetting who they are in the process– it can all be exhausting. It isn’t for everyone, and it’s only natural to want to break away from the intensity. Comfort also plays a role– why wear the fiveinch stilettos when sneakers are available? While seeking comfort in an outfit does not automatically mean said outfit is not fashionable, fashion, like all art, requires some amount of effort. The whole premise of fashion is that individuals want the world to notice what they have on. Their clothes make a unique statement. When I examined the heart of the normcore movement— which is apathetic uniformity— I could not personally consider it a true fashion movement.

photography by Yoojin Rhee

Is NORM

fashion? by Emma Fiander

photography by Yoojin Rhee

when fashion m e e t s

M I N I MA L I SM by Sydney Maples

Over the winter break, I made the semi-conscious decision to reduce the amount of physical material in my life. My relationship with “stuff” is a bit paradoxical in that I often fluctuate between compulsively cleaning and compulsively hoarding. My decision to reduce the “stuff” in my life initially seemed like a last-ditch attempt to reconcile the two tendencies. But ultimately, the premise behind the decision was a simple one: I had a lot of stuff that I didn’t need, and it was mentally distracting. Thus began my halfhearted journey into minimalism. For those who haven’t heard of minimalism before, it is a lifestyle that rouses self-reflection and a stronger sense of clarity by reducing what is unnecessary in one’s life. Minimalism typically begins with the diet– the reduction of refined sugar, artificial flavoring, etc.– and it extends to the household, encouraging the removal of unused items while keeping only what is necessary and simple. Theoretically,

photo by Austin Seidel

a minimalist would also extend this practice to their wardrobe. The idyllic closet of a minimalist would consist of basic whites, greys, and blacks. Less than twenty items is best, and nothing that wouldn’t be missed (which, surprisingly enough, turns out to be most things). I can’t speak for all fashion lovers on Stanford’s campus, so I will speak for myself: it can be difficult to let go of clothes. You form somewhat of an attachment to a certain pattern, or a certain aesthetic that can only be achieved by synthesis and careful selection. But the idea behind living minimally is that it is best to remove any piece of clothing that isn’t versatile. A grey t-shirt that costs two dollars at Savers could be much more valuable than a $200 blazer. Life only calls for one winter jacket, one pair of gloves, one bathrobe, and one pair of sneakers. And so, at the beginning of winter quarter– albeit reluctantly– I went through my entire wardrobe and tenderly packed away anything that I

didn’t feel an immediate attachment toward. An old pair of blue jeans (I only needed one), countless old socks, sweaters with holes in the sleeve– away they all went, and as I packed them in an old grocery bag to be sent to someone in need, I felt considerably lighter. Now well into winter quarter, I admit that in terms of diet and overall lifestyle, I have strayed a bit off of my minimalist ways. My room is still (occasionally) a bit too cluttered, and as the stress piles on, so do my spontaneous cravings for 3 AM snacks and caffeine– two things that the minimalist lifestyle heartily disapproves of. However, I have not strayed from my decision to reduce in certain aspects of my life. I still give away two pairs of clothes each month, slowly reducing what I own to the point where I am living off of bare necessities. And as I do so, I find that, in the seemingly endless land of “stuff,” there are very few material things that I end up missing once they are gone.

when fashion m e e t s

M I N I MA L I SM by Sydney Maples

photo by Austin Seidel

why

WOMEN IN TECH should fight FOR THEIR STYLE by Ana Carolina Mexia Ponce

In the male dominated tech world, women are often expected or pushed to conform to the male stereotypes that have been imposed in the work place. These stereotypes include the language used in the workplace and the tragic “jeans, tshirt and sandals” norm. I’m not saying that wearing jeans and a t-shirt is tragic; what is tragic is that people in tech have stereotyped this outfit. Lea Coligado (’16) is Stanford CS major who just started a new blog called “Women in Silicon Valley” (which you should totally check out). Coligado said that she felt she got better results in technical interviews when she fit the norm in a casual, stereotypical outfit. She stopped wearing dresses to work because it welcomed unwarranted attention and made her feel uncomfortable. This comment worried me. I’m hoping to be a CS major and I don’t own any t-shirts. In order to recover from this worry, I looked back at one of my biggest inspirations: Marissa Mayer. “Despite the geek stereotypes of hoodie sweatshirts, flip-flops and thick glasses, it makes perfect sense, these women say, for people interested in technology to be intrigued by fashion,” said 37-year-old Ms. Mayer, the new chief executive of Yahoo. The way I think about it, the design process that is involved in fashion is not that different than the design process that is involved in developing software. So why is it that people in tech assume that if someone is wearing a sophisticated outfit, there is no way that that person is smart? Smart people, especially women, would rather change their style than have their intelligence questioned by it.

photography by MXP Style and Nick Xu

why

WOMEN IN TECH should fight FOR THEIR STYLE by Ana Carolina Mexia Ponce

photography by MXP Style and Nick Xu

Women in tech should fight for confidence. We will feel more empowered by wearing clothes that are a part of our personality. The more women that keep their style, the less of a big deal it will be for colleagues, and the less uncomfortable women will feel in the workplace. The stigma can eventually be reduced.

Women in tech should fight for their style to show other women and the world that wearing a fabulous outfit and being a smart, kick-*ss coder are not mutually exclusive.

New

HOW YIK YAK BECAME THE TALK OF THE TOWN by Jacob Nierenberg

Hot

It’s safe to say that a word as unfashionable as yak has never been as buzzy as it is now. Depending on the context, it can be a shaggy animal, a trivial conversation, or a purging activity after a long night of drinking. But recently, the word has been given a new meaning, thanks to a wildly popular new app, that in the last several months has taken Stanford and other colleges across the nation by storm. This app is Yik Yak, and it can be found on the phones of students all over college campuses. Yik Yak is a social media app with a few features that set it apart from other apps. It is localized in such a way that a user can read and submit posts (aptly named “Yaks”) of every other user within close proximity. The most noteworthy feature of Yik Yak, though, is that the app is completely anonymous; anyone can post anything for everyone to see and vote on. Of course, this opens the door for cyber bullying. To this end, the creators of Yik Yak have developed a technology called geofencing, which blocks Yik Yak service from certain areas, such as middle schools and high schools. Colleges are fair game, though, and Stanford is no different. Much of the credit for Yik Yak’s rise at Stanford can be ascribed to Ty Thompson (‘16). Thompson is Yik Yak’s representative on campus, a position that entails promoting the app through flyer campaigns and free trinkets; it is a role he has played since Yik Yak first came to campus in the spring of 2014. At that time, the app barely had a hundred users— on a good day, maybe 150. Now, the app easily sees thousands of users daily. “I think Yik Yak brings, basically, a joke to campus,” Thompson says. “It brings a laugh. It’s an outlet for students to make a joke and have a good time.” Of course, some of these jokes can be much more offensive than they are comedic. While many Yaks are strangely relatable or “laugh-out-loud” funny, there are certainly Yaks that cross the line into offensive territory. Unlike Facebook, where an offensive status can result in anything from social ostracism to losing one’s job, Yik Yak allows users to post a truly nasty comment— racist, sexist, homophobic— and then vanish into the ether. While many of these comments are swiftly downvoted until they are removed from the site, some of them garner a fair share of supporters, sparking subsequent flame wars in the replies. Thompson is aware of this: “There are some posts that are really inappropriate,” he admits. Wherever there is controversy on campus, Yik Yak is sure to follow. One of the most noteworthy examples in the last quarter occurred in response to the shutdown of the San Mateo-Hayward Bridge on Martin Luther King Day. Lots of Yaks expressed support for the protestors and their motives, posting words of encouragement and the occasional #BlackLivesMatter or #Stanford68 hashtags. But in stark contrast to those Yaks, there were a number of more offensive Yaks, ranging from the casually superficial “If only it were MLK week instead of MLK day,” to the darkly satirical “It would be justice if they only blocked 3/5 of the highway,” to the outright appalling “Black people should hang themselves for old times’ sake.” Again, all of these posts are enabled, and possibly encouraged, by the fact that Yik Yak leaves no traces as to the identities of its users; in fact, one doesn’t even need an account to use it. This raises a question, then, about Yik Yak: Do bullies and trolls especially flock to Yik Yak because it offers them a safe haven to say their hurtful words, or does the promise of anonymity lead users to say unusually heinous things? It seems like a social media-sized take on the old question, “If you could commit any crime and get away with it, what would you do?” —but instead of robbing banks, Yik Yak users are making “jokes” that demean their fellow students in pursuit of getting a few upvotes. Some schools, such as Colgate University (NY) and Norwich University (VT) have gone so far as to ban the app from their campuses in light of excessive bullying. If all this paints Yik Yak in an unflattering light, then it’s important to remember that there really are a lot of good-hearted Yik Yak users. This is most expressed when users ask for advice and their peers are happy to answer. The anonymity of Yik Yak also allows for users to ask embarrassing or personal questions, without the fear of being identified. Often, users will confess to being upset over a midterm score or to feelings of sadness, among others. The response is nothing short of touching. Complete strangers will reach out with words of kindness and encouragement, offering support and advice to their fellow students.

illustration by Sarah Wymer

As Yik Yak’s first year on campus draws to a close, it’s remarkable to think of the app’s lasting power. While other once-wildly popular apps such as Flappy Bird and 2048 have largely faded, Yik Yak continues to rack up new users. As more and more people “ride the Yak,” Yik Yak will continue to court controversy and take heat for the inappropriate posts. “I think that doesn’t necessarily show the whole story,” Thompson comments on common Yik Yak’s criticism. “I think there’s a lot of positive things about the app, and that the good far outweighs the bad.”

New

HOW YIK YAK BECAME THE TALK OF THE TOWN by Jacob Nierenberg

Hot

illustration by Sarah Wymer

olitical leaders are not often known for being at the forefront of fashion. They are not pioneers of style or dictators of taste. Rarely do the fashion-forward look to the likes of Mitt Romney or Elizabeth Warren for wardrobe inspiration. It is not in a politician’s job description to be fashionable. Theirs is a job of words, of facts, of actions. There is simply no time or reason to care about innovation on the fashion front. Policies indicate success, not Prada. It is immediately clear to most that policy change is far more important in the political game than fashion. But that doesn’t mean that fashion doesn’t matter. If one is in politics, one is going to be criticized harshly. It’s an inevitable part of the culture. However, many females in politics have found that the criticisms don’t stop at policy, but rather extend into the realm of appearance— judgments on their personal style choice. Think Hillary Clinton’s infamous love of scrunchies, or Sarah Palin’s “sexual” wardrobe choices. When was the last time that anyone scrutinized Barak Obama’s shoes or John McCain’s suits? Women’s fashion is vastly more interesting and more diverse. There is a wide array of options for women even in a professional setting, whereas men don the same tired uniform over and over. It makes it much easier to pick apart Michele Bachmann’s style than Rand Paul’s. We live in an appearance-driven world, and to say otherwise would be a lie. It is a norm built into society. Personal style is an external manifestation of internal beliefs, and a person in the public eye needs to be especially conscious of what they put on their body. An attention to detail in wardrobe can be an indicator of the same sort of dedication in other aspects of a person’s work. A willingness to take style risks speaks to the way one might tackle a delicate issue in the Senate. Perhaps most importantly,

Form Follows FASHION by Emma Fiander

likely to feel more at ease dealing with turmoil in the political sector. Another problem arises in the observation that the visual standards for power and presentability are decidedly masculine in nature. Blazers, pantsuits, and plain button-ups dominated the world of political fashion because it was what the men wore, and for the women to feel as though they had to be taken seriously, they had to conform. This is not a criticism of masculine style– I love it when a woman rocks a great pantsuit, and the idea that style should be gendered at all is ridiculous to me. However, it does make it harder on the women who may want to expand beyond the rigid parameters of what is considered acceptable dress in politics. Politicians who prefer a more feminine approach to style may feel pressured to tone down their personal tastes for fear of being attacked by the media. In short, it may stop politicians from being themselves, and isn’t authenticity what everyone looks for in politicians? Fashion is a powerful medium. It creates an impression of who a person might be before even a word is uttered. It is a way to subtly emphasize one’s strengths and boost one’s discussion of attire should never eclipse the importance of the political achievements that any single politician has accomplished, it should be ejected from the conversation entirely. The problem is not the conversation itself, but the negative shape

model: Lily McElwee photographed by Sydney Maples

scrunchies aren’t a mark of laziness, but rather, they indicate to get the job done. Now that is a topic worthy of debate.

Form Follows FASHION by Emma Fiander

model: Lily McElwee photographed by Sydney Maples

scrunchies aren’t a mark of laziness, but rather, they indicate to get the job done. Now that is a topic worthy of debate.

athleisure

WEAR by Isabela Becerra and Elizabeth Ann Overton

ext time you’re in class, take note of how many girls you see sporting the trademark Lululemon leggings. Now, ask yourself— how many of them are going to or coming from the gym? But who can blame them? After a long night in Green Library that even the strongest Coupa coffee can’t undo, yoga pants and a zip-up jacket feel just right. “Athleisure wear,” the athletic-inspired style, is taking over both college campuses and the high fashion industry. Although putting a fashionable spin on sportswear is hardly new (anyone remember those 2002 Juicy Couture velour tracksuits?), it seems that active wear is today’s hottest style. Workout clothes were once bland and somewhat uniform, but shoppers can now choose from an array of stylish and bold patterned apparel. In an interview with the digital team behind LaurenConrad.com, a popular

lifestyle blog, Allison Norton notes, “not only is it acceptable to wear workout clothes to run errands, go shopping, or, nowadays, even travel, it’s actually viewed as cool. If you’re wearing workout clothes, then you probably exercise, which means you must be in shape. In a society where being in shape is so covetable, wearing workout clothes portrays you as someone who cares about your figure and appearance.” People gravitate towards athleisure wear in the hopes of projecting a certain image, aspiring to appear health conscious and fit. In fact, individuals rarely exercise in their athleisure wear. While the Stanford gym is filled with old running shorts and “New Student Orientation” t-shirts, Lululemons often aren’t worn to sweat in. They have been repurposed as a way to flaunt an active lifestyle. Brands synonymous with the concept of athleisure wear include Lululemon, Lorna Jane, Zella, Nike, and Athleta, just to

athleisure

WEAR by Isabela Becerra and Elizabeth Ann Overton

name a few. While these companies all manufacture similar apparel, Lululemon is the uncontested leader of the athleisure movement. Its success can be attributed to expert branding, streamlined functionality, and lucky timing. The team behind LaurenConrad. com believes that the craze surrounding Lululemon stems from the fact that they were “the first brand that successfully targeted young women and added an element of style to their workout clothes.” Although it maybe difficult to justify paying close to $100 for a pair of leggings, the high quality and multipurpose nature of their products make them an easy sell. Colors and patterns vary approximately once a month, attracting addicted clients to their newest merchandise. Lululemon has recently expanded their active wear to street clothes and a full-blown men’s collection. Spencer Rogers (‘18), a fan of athleisure wear, is especially attracted to the functionality, comfort, and quality of the Lululemon apparel. A D1 athlete, Rogers noted that the apparel is convenient, especially when faced with a jam-packed day of classes and practice. While some people consider throwing on Lulu sweats as an act of laziness, Rogers argues, “athleisure wear can be stylish in both its simplicity and practicality.” Not only has athleisure wear pervaded the closets of everyday people, but it has also penetrated the high fashion industry. Chanel, known for its timeless and effortless chic styles, now blends haute couture with athletic influence. This is exemplified in their increasingly relaxed silhouettes and collections of trainer shoes. These fabulous shoes quickly transform a monotonous outfit into a hip and laidback look. Furthermore, the online luxury retail website Net-A-Porter

photography by Sharon Lee

launched a section devoted to athleisure wear. Net-A-Porter selects their favorite pieces from various collections, making the merchandise accessible to customers. In addition, Beyoncé recently partnered with Topshop to create an “athletic street wear” brand. According to the website Women’s Wear Daily, Beyoncé’s brand “will have technical performance characteristics as well as an athleisure side, targeting women who go to yoga or the health club, as well as those who just want to look as if they do.” Alexander Wang, famous for his self-titled luxury label, recently collaborated with H&M to bring stylish active wear to the masses, particularly for those on the go who don’t have time to pack pre-workout, workout, and post-workout outfits. However, sporting an athletic look is no longer a practical, frugal choice. Reflecting on Alexander Wang’s 2015 runway collection, the team behind LaurenConrad.com comments: “The ‘t-shirt, leggings and workout shoes’ look used to be about comfort and not investing in appearance, but, in reality, each item is still at a high price point. It probably takes just as long to put a sporty outfit together as it would to throw on a button down and jeans.” For individuals who do not need to sacrifice fashion in order to lead an active lifestyle, athleisure wear is the ideal compromise, but it does not come without a price. It is difficult to imagine how the everyday woman once donned a corset, but now reaches for the stretchy yoga pants at the top of the pile. The athleisure movement is a perfect illustration of fashion’s reflective nature. Leggings with a $100 price tag are more than just a style trend— they embody a national movement towards leading an active and healthy lifestyle.

photography by Sharon Lee

“

We teach girls to shrink themselves, to make themselves smaller. We say to girls, ‘You can have ambition, but not too much. You should aim to be successful, but not too successful otherwise you will threaten the man.

”

BOW DOWN, BITCHES

quickly recognize Beyoncé’s feminism as loud, powerful, and dominating. Presented by the already established Queen, this tactic, paired with the continuous repetition of the lyrics “bow down, bitches,” sets the tone of a Beyoncé dictatorship, bringing her to a level of authority that washes out any room for dissent. In addition to this dominance, there’s a certain novelty factor to Beyoncé declaring herself as a feminist, as many celebrities hesitate to publically identify themselves as such. This hesitation tends to rely on partial or misused facts presented as whole evidence. In 1968, “feminism” gained a negative connotation, partly from its association with the infamous “bra-burning protests.” In reality, these protests never occurred, but they were immortalized in a satirical, misunderstood New York Post article titled, “Bra Burners and Miss America.” Author Lindsy Van Gelder drew a comparison between the protests and the burning of

personal identity. By choosing to sample from Achidie’s speech “We Should All Be Feminists,” Beyoncé simplifies the message, claiming that “we” can “all” operate within the same frame of feminism, while ignoring the historical beginning of the feminist movement. While the feminist movement provided a space for women to explore and champion women’s issues, it did not initially provide an avenue for women with differing race, sexuality, class, or religious identities to express and find support in their own individual, intersectional struggle. With that framework in mind, Beyoncé digresses the movement by again focusing on feminism as a blanket concept rather than an individualized struggle. With Beyoncé being the loudest feminist voice in the minds of many millennials, her view of the term is taken for granted as the way to understand feminism. But I wonder if her views are genuine, or if they

how we fit into Beyoncé’s feminist landscape

by Megan Calfas These words echo throughout the concert hall. Slowly, lines of identical girls robotically walk on stage, standing stiff and anonymous— only their silhouettes are lit up. The screen displays the words “FEMINIST.” The crowd begins to roar as a familiar figure appears. Beyoncé is not anonymous. There isn’t a blank role left to represent whatever “type” of woman the audience is familiar with. She is the Queen, and I find myself staring at her, hypnotized. How did I get here? In just a few minutes of music, I’ve fallen into near unrecoverable depths of Beyoncé fandom. It’s startling. The power of Beyoncé compels me and I want to find out why. The truth is, I’m not alone. In the past few years, Beyoncé has consistently topped both the pop charts and Time’s “100 Most Influential People” lists, creating pervasiveness to her fame that makes her recognizable and generally respected by a wide array of people. She’s friends with Obama, she dropped a

secret visual album (which I watched start to finish the day it was released— did you not?), she #wokeuplikediz. With this kind of influence, Beyoncé’s voice resonates loudly. Yet, the way in which she presents herself and her brand of feminism quickly complicates her surface-level message of empowerment and strength. In her newest album, Beyoncé more explicitly calls herself a feminist than in some of her previous work, as evidenced by her VMA’s performance of the song “Flawless” where each letter of “FEMINIST” stood taller than herself. In both this performance and the original work, “Flawless” stands out on her album primarily due to the fact that she chooses to sample TED talk speaker and Nigerian author Chimamanda Achidie’s speech “We Should All Be Feminists.” In this performance, the words of the speech flash across the screen one at a time, forcing the 1000+ person audience to focus solely on them. This visual choice compels people to

draft cards, but the context was lost with a sensationalized headline. The article instead became a spark of negative energy toward the feminist movement that can still be felt today. Despite this legacy of negativity towards feminism, some celebrities and millennials have begun to reclaim the term in attempts to reframe the movement in a more positive light. Beyoncé is a part of this new shift. Yet even amidst these persisting stereotypes, she presents her own type of feminism. In order to popularize something, usually there needs to be a simplification process— one that makes an idea more streamlined and broadly appealing. Beyoncé does this with the term “feminist.” She blows it up on a huge screen and has a brushstroke definition read: “Feminist: a person who believes in the social, political, and economic equality of the sexes.” By presenting the word as a non-negotiable, abstract concept, it operates as more of an umbrella term than a defined

are generated by a team of PR managers who are seeking new ways to sell CDs. It’s possible that Beyoncé is capitalizing on the recent re-popularization of the mainstream feminist movement, since feminism has had a resurgence of support (just look how many Stanford students’ laptops and water bottles now proudly declare “of course I am a feminist”). It would be interesting to see whether she would so loudly brand herself as a feminist in a less eagerly accepting social climate. I still throw the occasional “#iwokeuplikediz” on my Instagrams, and I still panic-dance for each unexpectedly released Beyoncé song. Beyoncé is not doing harm by declaring herself a feminist, but the media is doing the public harm by not offering a myriad of accessible personal identifications and definitions of feminism. At the end of the day, even if you’re supporting a successful woman, it’s never liberating to just blindly “bow down.”

“

”

BOW DOWN, BITCHES

how we fit into Beyoncé’s feminist landscape

NORCAL VS. SOCAL URBAN STREET STYLE by Carly Olszewski Although it is difficult to divide California fashion into two distinct geographical groups, there are subtle differences between Northern and Southern Californian fashion that allow you to pinpoint where someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s from.

NORCAL NorCal people don’t dress up as much as those in Southern California; there is not as much of an emphasis on labels in the Bay area. In NorCal, a “less is more” look dominates, meaning women don’t wear a lot of make-up, and they don’t style their hair every day. They have more of a “hipster,” “I’m not trying” style, often wearing short lace up boots or Birkenstocks, and letting their loose, untamed hair flow freely. The men typically wear blue skinny jeans, button ups, and hats, but again, they have a more clean-cut and casual style. In general, NorCal people look classy and put-together, but they want their style to be perceived as effortless and natural.

SOCAL LA people look trendy; for example, whatever you see on the mannequin at the mall is what people in LA are wearing. They love big designer names, and they go for the style that’s most “in.” While they do rock new styles such as the “flannel tied around the waist,” they are better recognized for dressing up. Women wear nice handbags, over the knee boots, and they look very “Hollywood.” Even on casual days, SoCal women often wear fancy crochet shorts and loose, soft tee’s, while men wear pastel colored button-ups, collared shirts, dress pants, and Sperrys or loafers. So Cal people are dressed to impress!

@models_on_instagram

The live updates on Instagram share not only what the model wears, but also where the model is. Now, fans can integrate into the world of modeling with just one “double-tap.” In the same way that Instagram has made the act of modeling more real to the outside world, it has also made models more human. No longer are models considered beauties that appear only in haute couture runway shows or black tie celebrity events. They have become people who post pictures of dinners with friends, artsy snapshots, and sometimes even derpy faces. Instagram helps illuminate all aspects of models’ lives. Take model Kelly Gale, an angel for Victoria’s Secret, who intersperses her beach selfies with pictures of her training, playing basketball or archery, and working out at the gym. Or, take Karlie Kloss, half of whose pictures don’t even include her face. Seeing what a model posts gives followers insight into that model’s life, encouraging a faint, nearly insignificant, but still consequential relationship between the two. There is no one who demonstrates this more clearly than the nearly ubiquitous Cara.

Courtesy of Cara Delevingne

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by Bradley Wo Models have always graced the covers of glossy magazines, but they’ve recently started using a new tool to grow their presence— their cellphones. In the digital age, the means by which models are able to connect with their fans are always increasing. There seems to be no app more suited to these photogenic models than Instagram. Let’s start by looking at the stats: Cara Delevingne, 9.5 million followers; Miranda Kerr, 5.5 million followers, and Kendall Jenner, 18.8 million followers (we won’t go into whether Kendall is a real model). Undeniably, these models are doing something right. Instagram has transformed the way that models interact with us and with each other. Instagram’s greatest feature is not the addition of filters, but rather the dispersion of personal information to the public. In terms of models on Instagram, this means the unveiling of the once-hidden world of high fashion. Transporting modeling from an isolated photo shoot onto online accounts has allowed followers to see the entire process that ultimately results in a centerfold or runway walk. Pat McGrath, a makeup artist for many models, has started to receive more recognition for her work from her models’ numerous posts that thank her. Models also express their gratitude toward the designers whose shows they’re featured in. In addition to expanding the visible aspect of modeling, Instagram has also enabled followers to stay amazingly current with fashion shoots around the world.

Courtesy of Karlie Kloss

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Cara Delevingne: 9,501,782 followers, whose bio reads: “Don’t worry, be happy! Embrace your weirdness STOP LABELLING START LIVING.” Cara’s posts range from her photo shoots with brand name designers and fashion magazines to Internet memes. She has been considered controversial because she portrays herself as more of a spunky girl than a graceful model. Furthermore, unlike other models, Cara takes her account one step beyond her appearance and occasionally addresses political or social issues. Following the attack on Je Suis Charlie, Cara posted the quote by Voltaire, “I do not agree with what you have to say, but I’ll defend to death your right to say it.”

@models_on_instagram

Courtesy of Cara Delevingne

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Courtesy of Karlie Kloss

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Let me begin by confessing that I do not have a bike, a scooter, a skateboard, or a Segway with me at Stanford. I’ll give you a moment to recover from the shock. Yes, there are actually many people like myself who choose walking as their means of transportation. Although we may not understand the struggles of wet bike seats or forgetting where you locked your bike, walking carries its own set of difficulties. As a vetted Stanford walker, I have reflected on all of my transportation mishaps to bring you a list of do’s and don’ts of walking at Stanford: 1. Sunglasses will not stop tourists from asking you for directions. As it turns out, even the most stylish, tinted lenses don’t hide you in plain sight, and they definitely don’t let you sneak past the hordes of tourists, either. Tourists are persistent— nothing, not even mysterious shades, will stop them from asking you where the souvenirs are. 2. Utility jackets will not protect your valuables from the rain. Yes, it’s Stanford, and we’re in the golden state. Rain is not supposed to be a thing. But on the five or six days a year when it is, your cool utility/army jacket will not save you, or anything on you. Your phone? Wet. Your cash? Soaked. Your patience? Gone.

the misadventures of a bikeless girl by Arianna Lombard

3. Rain boots are not running shoes. And while we’re on the topic of rain gear, let’s address the fact that rain boots are quite possibly the most inhibiting shoes out there. I know, they’re cute and look great with a lot of outfits, but please, for your safety, don’t risk trying to run your usual ten-minute route to class in five minutes because you’re late. It will lead to a lot of awkward clunking and stomping, everyone will give you weird looks, and you’ll still be late to class. Overall, it isn’t worth it.

Courtesy of Gigi Hadid

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In a similar fashion, Cara has posted about women’s rights, the legalization of marijuana, and animal protection. She has used her presence on Instagram to bring important issues forward. This being said, models on Instagram are not necessarily realistic. Most posts continue to display the glamorous, luxurious lifestyle that is imagined by people and confirmed in photographs. Models’ image on Instagram has become as important as their image in photo shoots. The commonality of models in other models’ pictures (such as the close friendship between Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and Cara Delevingne, or between Taylor Swift and Karlie Kloss) creates an inner circle of celebrities and models and a visual stratification of society. In the same way that the East and West Egg of The Great Gatsby defined the socioeconomic difference between its residents, so too does Instagram create the illusion of a perfect world, a model-esque world, an unattainable world. But in reality, these virtual accounts sustain a fantasy no more concrete than smoke and mirrors. I’m remiss to exaggerate the influence of Instagram (it’s an app that I associate more with casual scrolling in lecture than a visual depiction of society), but it’s impossible to deny the overwhelming influence that these models now have. Instagram provides another medium for models to move off of the paper and into the everyday lives of avid followers.

4. Heavy backpacks are your mortal enemies. On a bike, you can quickly ride to class, and you may only have to deal with the insane weight of your backpack for a few moments. However, when you’re walking and your bag or backpack weighs 30 pounds or more, you’ll feel it for the next two days. A fifteen minute walk feels more like forty-five when you’re carrying the weight of $400 in textbooks, the stress of your future, your interview, your start-up, and your sleep-debt on your shoulders. Try to only carry the necessities, because that $60,000 tuition does not include backrubs. Finally, using both ear buds puts your life at risk. Here at Stanford, the only place in the world where bikers get the right of way, you have to pay attention. When you have both ears tuned into Queen B’s “Drunk in Love,” you run the risk of causing a traffic jam in the Circle of Death. Cue the angry yaks. Sadly, I’ve had to learn all of these the hard way. But in the lifethreatening event that you lose your bike lock, you can now join me in safely navigating the unforgiving Stanford streets by foot.

Illustrations by Sarah Wymer

the misadventures of a bikeless girl by Arianna Lombard

Courtesy of Gigi Hadid

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Illustrations by Sarah Wymer

MAKING HIGH

lthough the thought crossed my mind, it certainly didn’t stop me from gazing at the glossy mannequins adorn with Missoni’s signature zig-zag prints behind the storefront window. It’s Fashion’s Night Out 2011, and the streets of the Upper East Side of Manhattan are swarming with fledgling fashionistas. Eyes hungry, feet aching, these cinderellas prowl Madison Avenue in stilettos, peering intently into the immaculate displays of high fashion boutiques before they close at 11:00 PM.

Fashion’s Night Out

Aside from serving as inspiration for The Devil Wears Prada, Fashion’s Night Out(FNO) is an idea that sprung from the mind of Vogue’s Editor-in-Chief, Anna Wintour. FNO occurred each September from 2009 to 2012 in NYC, and its premise was to keep NYC stores open late for one night during September fashion week as a citywide celebration of high fashion and retail. The impetus of the event was the need to boost store traffic amidst the recession. Ultimately, the event did that, and only that. It turned out that the vast majority of shoppers were oglers and not buyers; not enough sales were made during FNO’s to justify the money invested in organizing an evening of late night shopping with complimentary champagne and celebrity appearances (#ISurvivedJustinBiebersVisitToDolceGabbana). For this reason, the event went on hiatus in the fall of 2013 and is indefinitely on hold. From the outside, it appeared that FNO was nobly making high fashion more accessible to the masses. In reality, it was an annual, tantalizing display of brands and apparel still entirely out of its participants’ price range.

FASHION From Fashion’s Night Out to Big Brand Collaborations

Big Brand Collaborations

ACCESSIBLE by Becky Aydin

“That Missoni saleswoman does not look happy to see my nose smushed up on the glass.” photo by Ashley Overbeek

Five days after the 2011 FNO, Target launched “Missoni for Target,” a line with over 400 items created in collaboration with Missoni. This limited edition collection of apparel, dinnerware, and bedding was to be sold online and in Target stores for approximately one month (the eBay sales, on the other hand, may last forever). On the day of release, the Target website crashed as anxious buyers clamored to purchase cardigans for $49.99 (compare to $1,060.00 from Missoni) and bikinis for $49.98 (compare to $500 from Missoni). Target has been collaborating with big designer names for 12 years now. Its first endeavor with Issac Mizrahi from 2003 to 2008 raked in $300 million for the company during each year of the collaboration. The

“GO International” program, launched in 2006 and discontinued in 2011, was conceived to spotlight up-and-coming designers by inviting them to create limited-edition collections for Target. Luella Bartley, Paul & Joe, Patrick Robinson, Proenza Shouler, and finally Kate and Laura Mulleavy of Rodarte were all participants. Its “Designer Collaborations” program, which features designer names already established in fashion world, kicked off with Alexander McQueen in 2009 and has since featured designers such as Jason Wu and Altuzarra. Target’s upcoming collaboration is with Lilly Pulitzer. The line, which is set to launch on April 19th, 2015, will feature 250 home, apparel, and beauty items with exclusive prints available only at Target. Lilly Pulitzer VP of Creative Communications Jane Schoenborn says, “We decided to partner with Target for this collaboration because they have so much style; we can’t think of anyone else we would rather help us sell our message to the world.” Schoenborn’s statement draws us to the macro goals of big-brand collaborations: designers hope to gain new followers and buyers by exposing their clothing to people outside of their usual shopper demographic, while the big housing brands (like Target) seek the buzz, prestige, and popularity of an exclusive collection. This is why H&M, Topshop, Gap, Adidas, and many other big brands continue to seek out these temporary partnerships. To the frugal fashionistas (especially the ones with a soft spot for dazzling designer names), these collaborations present a rare opportunity to snag big designer pieces for a reasonable price. Furthermore, they are an invaluable introduction to many of the great names of the fashion industry. My go-to outfit for interviews is from the fall 2013 collaboration with Phillip Lim, a designer who likely would not have been on my radar had he not partnered with Target. The orange and blue animal print skirt defies all pre-conceived notions about the dangers of pairing contrasting colors, and its skater skit cut creates a flattering waistline. The sleeveless, navy blouse has a chiffon-like feel and a great asymmetrical flourish of fabric on the front. I pair the skirt and top with Lim’s cross-body, black leather bag, which is big enough to hold a folder with resumes. Throw on a pair of neutral pumps, and I’m ready to go! .

MAKING HIGH

Fashion’s Night Out

FASHION From Fashion’s Night Out to Big Brand Collaborations

Big Brand Collaborations

ACCESSIBLE by Becky Aydin

“That Missoni saleswoman does not look happy to see my nose smushed up on the glass.” photo by Ashley Overbeek

LUMBER SEXUAL by Arianna Lombard

LumberSexuals

a new type of modern man

All across the nation, men are changing form. They’re stuffing their $1,000 MacBook Airs into their $70 backpacks that are made to look thrifted, and they’re clipping on red suspenders to their already sturdy jeans. They’re measuring the lengths of their beards and making themselves look as rugged as possible.

Men are turning into… lumbersexuals. “Lumbersexuals?” you ask. No, it is not the name of an obscene act with wood. In fact, it’s a trend in men’s fashion that’s escalating into a national phenomenon. To understand this idea, let’s take a look at the past. Lumbersexuals are descendants of the metrosexuals. The word “metrosexual” originated in the mid 90’s as a way to describe urban men who had an increased focus on their appearance. They spent more money on popular clothing brands and hygiene products. Their outfits never looked sloppy, and they had an increasing awareness of pop

culture. Their name arose as a combination of the words “metropolitan” and “heterosexuals.” They stood proudly by the notion that caring about your outfit can be manly. A couple of years back, metrosexuals dabbled with the hobo-chicness of the hipsters, giving way to today’s latest hybrid: the lumbersexual. Stylish and well-groomed men started to wear more flannels and working boots, and they accessorized their arms with sleeves of nature-inspired tattoos. This was the era of the “metrojack.” However, the lumberjack style continued to grow. Suspenders, intense beards, and Levi’s were thrown into the mix. But these men didn’t lose sight of the metrosexual manifesto. Lumbersexuals work at startups, listen to popular music, and have Instagram accounts. Think Alaska meets San Francisco. Lumbersexuals are simply modern men of society who have created a new, fashionable form of self-expression.

LumberSexuals

a new type of modern man

Daniel Hills-Bunnell, on style: I guess itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mostly Carhartt, HUF, and other miscellaneous items.

On Nikhil Ramnarayan: skinny khakis, GAP. Flannel shirt, GAP. Watch, Titan EDGE. Bracelets, Camp Kesem.

Daniel Hills-Bunnell, on style: I guess itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mostly Carhartt, HUF, and other miscellaneous items.

On Nikhil Ramnarayan: skinny khakis, GAP. Flannel shirt, GAP. Watch, Titan EDGE. Bracelets, Camp Kesem.

photography by Sharon Lee

outfitgrids

the day look

shirt: china, pants: scotch & soda, shoes: h&m, shades: retrosuperfuture, backpack: urban outfitters

MINT asked style pro Alex Martel ‘15 to take on the instagram trend of #outﬁtgrids. Here’s what we got.

shirt, pants, chains: peacebird, shoes: nordstrom

the night look

photography by Emma Coleman

outfitgrids

the day look

shirt: china, pants: scotch & soda, shoes: h&m, shades: retrosuperfuture, backpack: urban outfitters

MINT asked style pro Alex Martel ‘15 to take on the instagram trend of #outﬁtgrids. Here’s what we got.

shirt, pants, chains: peacebird, shoes: nordstrom

the night look

photography by Emma Coleman

Say who you

are

W I T H OU T s ay i n g a w o r d the vision of Ezra Crowley The co-founder and COO of VZ Exclusive offers insight about how he got ahead as a new player in the old-world game of fashion. by jacob nierenberg

f the late Joan Rivers is remembered for one thing, it would have to be her red carpet catchphrase: “Who are you wearing?” The answer was one off of a fanciful list including Chanel, Gucci, and Versace. But there’s one name that we might be hearing a lot more of in the next few years—VZ Exclusive Bespoke Clothiers, an up-and-coming clothing company spearheaded by Ezra Crowley. Over the last two years, VZ Exclusive has become a clothing company unlike any other by playing the middleman between some of the world’s most famous faces and best tailors. Crowley is in his early thirties, with long hair slicked back into a ponytail. Much of his face—a serious one that betrays his warm and personal tendencies—hides under a beard. He is dressed casually in a Stanford sweater and workout pants, making him look much more like a college student than high-end clothier. When I inquire about this, he tells me about a rival clothier who met his clients in a “clown suit,” a three-piece suit complete with a bowtie. “I think it’s so over-the-top,” he replies. “It just goes to show that you’re really out of touch with fashion when you go around dressed in a three-piece suit, over-the-top, all the time.” Crowley was born and raised in northern Minnesota. He doesn’t state exactly where, but he does say that he grew up in a poor household. Even from a young age, he had a head for entrepreneurship, starting a record label at the age of 15. Two years later, Crowley boarded a train bound for Seattle with nothing but a duffel bag and a guitar. For ten years, Crowley produced

hip-hop records with the Oldominion collective, running in the same circle as Macklemore and even hanging out with members of Pearl Jam. Despite minor successes such as Billboard hits and MTV exposure, Crowley left the music industry in frustration. Shortly thereafter, he became acquainted with Amanda Vesey, a Foster School of Business graduate and CPA. (Crowley later tells me, modestly, that this article should really be about her.) Ever since her childhood, Vesey had a knack for designing clothes. Crowley is fond of telling the story that Vesey learned to sew on her grandma’s knee. Vesey later combined her love of fashion with her skill for business at another international custom clothing company that specialized in menswear. But as the brand grew, the quality of their products declined, and Vesey couldn’t deliver clothes of the quality that her clients demanded. Disheartened, Vesey was considering leaving the fashion industry and pursuing her back-up plan—accounting. “I started thinking, ‘I’m never going to see you again. You’re going to be totally unfulfilled creatively,’” Crowley remembered. “I started sending letters and emails to people on the other side of the world. I knew very little about fashion, so I just started researching.” In his research, Crowley came into contact with some of the best tailors and fabric mills. Within months, Crowley and Vesey had linked up with tailors in America and Italy, and they made connections along Savile Row in London. In 2012, Crowley and Vesey founded VZ Exclusive

Say who you

are

Bespoke Clothiers. When I asked Crowley of the moment that he knew VZ Exclusive would be successful, he paused for a moment. Then he answered, assuredly: “I knew from the beginning that it would be successful because of the vision that we had for it. I knew that if I could make our vision a reality, it would be a success.” Their first customer had been with them from the

know his name praise his work and pay for it handsomely. VZ Exclusive’s success is gratifying; it has allowed him to do what he loves with whom he loves, but it has also been an intense process that has dominated his life for the last two years. After a few years at community college and founding VZ Exclusive, he transferred to Stanford

VZ E x c l u s i v e

photos generous provided by Ezra Crowley

beginning. Back at the old company, Vesey had a client who wasn’t getting what he wanted, and upon hearing of their new venture, the client sought the services of VZ Exclusive for garments of the quality that he desired. This client was none other than co-founder and former CEO of Oracle, Larry Ellison. Crowley jokes that VZ Exclusive doesn’t spend a penny on advertising because of Ellison’s support: “I demand perfection, and VZ Exclusive delivers.” Having Ellison as a client has certainly shaped VZ Exclusive’s business practices. Whereas conventional wisdom says to appeal to as many people as possible, VZ Exclusive caters to a more high-end clientele. “I basically built the company around that kind of client,” Crowley details. “Nobody’s going to start a company based around the needs of a multibillionaire.” VZ Exclusive now offers several grades of quality. The most popular is the Executive class, whose $3,999 suits are a better buy than a Brioni suit of the same quality. “It’s not like we’re elitist at all, although ‘exclusive’ is a part of our name. I guess it’s just that quality is the most important thing to us,” Crowley adds. And he’s right—this topdown approach to business has allowed VZ Exclusive to sell affordable products without necessarily selling cheap ones. Still, many of VZ Exclusive’s customers are very wealthy and famous businesspeople, entertainers, and athletes. Many of his clients come to VZ Exclusive on recommendation from their friends, although Crowley tells me that he gets a lot of business simply by cold calling celebrities that he’d like to work with. If they’re interested, he follows up by flying out to New York City or Los Angeles to meet them—something he does practically every weekend. (He won’t specify any clients that he’s currently courting on record, but he does hint that I’d recognize some of them by their first name alone.) Despite working with some truly high-profile individuals— Crowley highlights Kate Hudson as a bit of a breakthrough— he doesn’t let it go to his head, and he values the trust that VZ Exclusive’s clientele places in the company. “They bring you into their home and ask for your help and advice,” he says. When I ask him what it’s like working with the stars, his answer is humble and thoughtful: “Working with a top businessperson or a big celebrity is no different than working with anyone, really… It may be kind of exciting for me to work with these big-name people, but once you get down to business, this is a person—this is my client. I guess professionalism trumps being star struck at that point. At that point, they’re coming to me for my services.” He still sees the reward in his job, and he enjoys helping customers get what they want. In contrast to his days in the music industry, Crowley’s name is not widely known in the world of fashion, but those who do

and is currently a full-time senior majoring in Science, Technology, and Society, striving to maintain a 4.0 GPA and continue raising a family. Crowley tells me that much of VZ Exclusive’s profits go to covering his Stanford tuition and his weekly airfare, but he’s happy with his life thus far. “What drew you to Stanford?” I ask. There are plenty of schools suited to fashion in New York City and Los Angeles, something Silicon Valley isn’t exactly known for. “I think Stanford’s probably the best college in the world,” he answers. “I really like the entrepreneurial spirit that Stanford has and instills in its students.” Crowley’s own entrepreneurial experiences got him this far, but he wanted to return to college in order to flesh them out with an education. Plus, the Stanford Alumni Network provides a lot of potential clients. (VZ Exclusive offers discounts for Stanford associates—20% for faculty and alumni, and 25% for students.) In addition, he mentions that he’d like to revamp VZ Exclusive’s website with an online store, and he could use a few web designers to help him out with such a project. The website is just one plan that VZ Exclusive has for the future. In the last several months, the company has gone beyond just suits, now introducing accessories from footwear to headwear, and dealing in womenswear, which VZ Exclusive would like to focus on as much as menswear. Crowley also hopes that, in time, VZ Exclusive will be able to set up a brick-and-mortar store in Beverly Hills that can compete against brands such as Prada and Louis Vuitton. Still, the priority is selling clothes at the best prices for the best quality. “It’s a very old-world business,” Crowley comments on the fashion industry. Being in Silicon Valley, where high-tech advances are made every day, has given Crowley an “interesting perspective” on being in such a business. “That is definitely our biggest challenge as a company: How do we scale an old-world, high-touch business?” VZ Exclusive has gotten this far without dealing in online sales or retail, but Crowley hopes to make the leap someday. Before he goes, Crowley leaves me with one last bit of philosophy on fashion.“Fashion isn’t about wearing the most ostentatious, ‘fashionable’ outfit. It’s about looking the part, no matter what that part may be.” Crowley says these words as if we’ve been building towards them for the last hour. He recites the company slogan: say who you are, without saying a word. It’s a creative turn of phrase, and only now do I understand what it means. For VZ Exclusive, the clothes don’t make the man so much as they make a statement about him. .

VZ E x c l u s i v e

photos generous provided by Ezra Crowley

BREWED or STEEPED? by Elizabeth Overton

Best coffee drinks on or near campus: Coupa Café- Cappuccino CoHo- Havana Latté Starbucks- Iced Carmel Macchiato Olives- Vanilla Latté Philz Coffee- Silken Splendor Best teas on campus: Starbucks- Youthberry TAZO Tea Coupa Café- Any flavor of Chai Tea Latté Coupa Café- Green Mango Peach Tea Most college students don’t drink tea expecting to experience a huge boost of energy, because even the strongest cup of black tea contains roughly half of the caffeine content in a cup of coffee. Tea has long been associated in the East with health, happiness, and wisdom. Most people drink tea to savor the taste, because it is healthy, or to cleanse their system. Stanford freshman field-hockey player, Ashley Watson, says that she drinks tea “because at the end of a really long day, it is just what I need to warm me up, calm me down, and lift my spirits.” It also makes her feel like she is making a healthy choice for her body. According to WebMD, “studies have found that some teas may help with cancer, heart disease, and diabetes; encourage weight loss; lower cholesterol; and bring about mental alertness.” Katherine Tallmadge, American Dietetic Association spokeswoman, asserts that tea simply has no downside. The latest trend, “teatoxing,” is taking over social media. Skinny Teatox, Your Tea, and Yogi all have teatoxes on the market that are 100% natural detoxes to aid weight loss. However, there is debate as to whether paying extra for a teatox provides more benefits than just drinking tea a few times per day. Why do people opt for brewed? Coffee is a stimulant, and at a challenging university like Stanford, there is no shortage of it. Frederick Tan, a Stanford freshman, brought an espresso machine from home to his dorm room. Unlike most college students, Tan has never had coffee to stay awake. He truly loves making coffee, and he claims that “there’s a certain culture associated with serious coffee drinkers that I find really interesting to be a part of.” Although coffee-aficionados may drink coffee just because they love the taste or the amazing aroma, the majority of college students drink regular coffee for the caffeine. Just like tea, WebMD highlights the many health benefits of coffee: it may decrease the chance of type 2 diabetes, cancer, and Parkinson’s disease. However, studies also show that too much coffee can cause heartburn, inhibit performance, and make you jittery. So instead of debating between coffee and tea, find the best time and place in your day for both. There is no doubt that coffee is necessary for many students to drag themselves out of bed early, to stay awake through class, or to complete assignments far past Green Library’s closing time. However, in order to stay balanced, we must also take the time to relax, meditate, and nurture our bodies, and tea is a great way of doing so.

photography by Yoojin Rhee

BREWED or STEEPED? by Elizabeth Overton

photography by Yoojin Rhee

photography by Montana Morgan model: Vanessa Fraser

What did you wear on the first day of middle school? I grew up in the Philippines. My mom was a fashion designer and she tailored everything and she made everything. They were always to her liking because she always picked them and I never had a say in what I wore. It was a lot of girly, pink florals and I hated it. I hated it so much. On the first day of high school? My first day of high school was in the United States. I had these bell bottom corduroys--they were orange. And I thought I was going to look so cool at this high school in New York City, haha, no. I had on a long-sleeve shirt and on top of that I wore a pink v-neck t-shirt. On my feet I wore mary jane Sketchers. I actually had the same bob haircut in high school as I do now. And I wore my Barbie backpack. I had thought you were never too old for Barbie. But I found out that Mean Girls is real. They’re real, and they went to my high school. So high school wasn’t an overall positive experience? I didn’t have a great high school experience. I was always different. My parents were strict, and I wasn’t allowed to go out, even for extracurricular school things. That forced me to be more creative at home, finding new hobbies like cutting up my old pants and making them into denim mini-skirts. On the first day of this year? On the first day of 2015, I wore this cropped knitted gray sweater and high waisted black skinny jeans, with white hightop Vans. Do you have an article of clothing that holds a special memory to you? What is it? I’m not very sentimental about my clothes, so not a lot of clothes have meaning at all. But the one thing thats been sitting here for years is something that I brought over from the Philippines. It’s my mom’s black, collared button-down. She’s worn this since before I was born and I accidentally stole it from her closet one day and I started building my personal style around this piece. It kind of expresses who I am in a gist. It’s minimal and it’s simple; it’s versatile enough to go with any other piece of clothing that I wear. And I’m pretty sure it’s older than me. I’m pretty sure that everything I am today started from this shirt. What are your opinions on the fashion industry as a whole? Do you think it is becoming more diverse quickly enough? At New York Fashion Week, seeing models from every culture was great. Back in the day, the face of fashion was on a skinny, blonde, size 0 girl. But now, you’re flipping through a magazine and you see all kinds of people. Everyone can pull off “being fashionable.” It’s opened eyes to the idea that you can be a part of fashion and this industry, no matter who you are or what part of the world you come from. But I think there’s more room to grow.

“

no one takes interest in someone who is blending in.

”

Do you have any advice for those striving to become fashion bloggers? If you’re not yourself, you’re only selling someone else’s face, someone else’s image. No one takes interest in someone who is blending in. If you’re different, people will notice, and you’re only different if you’re being authentic.

“

no one takes interest in someone who is blending in.

”

phot ogr aphybyEmmaCol eman

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