N T s 110

THE FUTURE IS FEMALE TREES THE DOPAMINE FAST

NO STRINGS ATTACHED why is it so hard to accept the party is over? a letter from the editor

Here goes nothing! You know that feeling when you have so much to say but just can't get the words out? I really want to get it right, so bear with me as I navigate through what feels like the world's worst breakup. Sitting here writing my last few lines in the middle of our neighborhood bar, surrounded by all the people on this team that make it all worth it. Between the 15-hour production days, all-nighters, burnout, tears, and the couple hundred "Hi girlie, just following up on this" emails, I haven't really had time to process that this is it. The Grand Finale.

In this issue, we explore the idea of going on hiatus - a time for pause, rest, and reflection. In a world that seems to move at a breakneck pace, it's important to take a step back and give ourselves permission to slow down, recharge, and take stock of where we are. In these pages, you will find stories of people who have taken time to heal, to explore, to create, and to grow. Everyone needs a break once in a while. In doing so, you discover new passions, perspectives, and ways of being. Maybe I should have slowed down more.

But being on hiatus is not just about relaxation and self-care. It's also a time of uncertainty, questioning, and growth. It's a chance to confront our fears, to push ourselves out of our comfort zones, and to discover what we're truly capable of. Maybe this beautiful era coming to an end is the push I need. The last four years, I've felt like I've been on auto-pilot: created the editorial board, scheduled staff interviews, rescheduled staff interviews because they got the date wrong, onboard new team, meeting, meeting, meeting, meeting, production day, another production day, sorry I won't be home for dinner, editorial meeting, art meeting, I'd love to come to your birthday party, but we have a shoot that day, email, email, all-nighter, yes, the magazine is almost done, event, all-nighter, cry session, I promise I'll have more free time next week. You know that one friend that gets into a relationship and suddenly disappears for four months? That was me but with fewer red roses and more TIFFs and JPEGs.

My relationship with Strike was love at first sight; immediately swept off my feet by its dedication to uncovering the stories and issues that matter most, its commitment to representing diverse voices and perspectives, its unrelenting passion for change, and Emma Oleck at the forefront of it all, leading us deep into the chiffon trenches. What Emma didn't know is that she was creating more than just a 75-page magazine. It was a home. A place for us to be; and to create with no boundaries or judgment. Emma, thank you for gifting me the most beautiful four years of my entire life. I hope I made you proud.

Years later, I still feel that same intense connection to the magazine. Strike Magazine has become a part of who I am, a constant reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of speaking truth to power. I am forever grateful for that.

Thank you to my incredible team for listening to my incessant rambling, trusting the vision (even when it involves live snakes), and constantly giving your all to this publication; you are the driving force of Strike Magazine. To the readers: thank you for supporting your local college creatives. We wouldn't be here without you.

As you read through these pages, I hope you will find inspiration and encouragement to take your own hiatus - whether it's a weekend getaway, a sabbatical from work, or simply a few moments of quiet contemplation each day. May this issue serve as a reminder that taking a break is not a sign of weakness but rather a powerful act of self-care and self-discovery. What's next for Mila? Who knows. In all honesty, I'm just excited to get 8 hours of sleep next week. That's it for now... Mila out.

As the weather gets warmer, the trends get hotter. Strike and I have returned to give you the 4-1-1 on the up-andcoming trends you can spend the summer frolicking in. Here is your #STRIKETRENDWATCH for your print-reading pleasure.

Mermaid Core

H2O and Aquamarine girlies, this is your lucky day. Getting in the water to cool off. Playing mermaids is cool again. And dressing like them is cooler. Adopt the wet look in your hair while wearing every shade of blue possible in the most ethereal way possible. Lots of asymmetrical silhouettes will help you look your mermaid best this summer.

Sheer Is Here

Tits out all summer! Sheer challenges you to bare all in the name of fashion. It’s the star of many runway shows this past fashion season. It looks good with any pattern, texture, and fit. Wear if you dare…

Ribbons Galore

As an extension of the 'Soft Girl' trend, Sandy Liang’s recent collection has confirmed that the 'coquette girl' aesthetic is here to stay. This time, it’s with a heavy emphasis on bows. They’re here, there, and everywhere this season. The girly girl’s favorite accessory reigns on.

Lived In Leather

The look that is lived-in leather can be found in high-end stores and thrift stores alike. Your dad’s old leather jacket can be taken out of retirement, or you can choose to splurge on the new Miu Miu leather handbags. Leather, whether it’s faux or for real, is the coldest trend this summer.

Maxi Skirts

Move over, minis! Maxis have been all the rage lately. We’ve seen all the hot girls in their denim maxi skirts all fall and winter, but let’s not forget to keep that in the wardrobe rotation this spring and summer too. Branch out and find a funky maxi that pairs with the upcoming hot months to become little miss sunshine.

ART-INSPIRED PIECES

Colm Dillane’s KidSuper has brought us into a renaissance of wearable art. Whether it’s a shirt, pants, clothes, shoes, or handbags, it’s nothing short of exceptional. Bright colors stroked onto clothing to make up a bigger picture; all of which are true art. As a guest designer at Louis Vuitton earlier this year, he showed his true colors and made a visually stunning collection.

Tights In Every Color Of The Rainbow

This trend looks best under your favorite skirts and dresses. They're opaque, colored tights. Match the color to the patterns on your clothes, or stand out with an eye-catching combo or color. Don’t knock it ‘til you try it.

PUFF PUFF, SMASH

This is a trend you absolutely can’t pass on. The puffer look has been trending, except now it’s gone beyond just the jacket. With bags like Coach’s Pillow Tabby bag and shoes such as Prada’s Soft Padded loafers, this fun and fluffy trend ensures everything gets the softest possible upgrade.