STR KE FALL 2017 ISSUE
STRIKE Editor-in-Chief: Hannah Kealy Creative Director: Natalie Campion Editor-in-Chief Assistant: Sophie Kemm Creative Director Assistant: Katie Laycock
Art Design Director: Sophie Kemm Art Directors: Carli Solomon, Sophie Li, Reagan Kelly, Leigh Stolarz
Digital Videographer: Cristyna Rhoads Staff Photographer: Austin Tolchin
Marketing Brand Director: Nicole Tripodis Marketing Director: Millicent Leeds
Women's Directors: Ariana Jurado, Chelsea Percopo Assistant: Lucy Jane Hurley
Beauty Directors: Haleigh Feix Assistants: Haley Gagnon, Emily Gibson, Tori Thrall
Lifestyle Directors: Megan Barry, Olivia Hrbek
Men’s Director: Margot Portuondo Assistants: Janna McCabe, Hali Azpeitia
Advertising Director: Savannah Dakos Assistants: Emma Steele, Austin Tolchin, Jordan Singletary, Ashley Diego, Rachel Mastics
Castings & Bookings Casting Director: Emily Crooks Casting Assistant: Elizabeth Seccombe Bookings Director: Sarah Kern Bookings Assistant: Melissa Cancel
Instagram: @strikemagazine
Styling Director: Lauren Johnson Assistants: Emily Waters, Grace Alexander, Alexa Carter
Public Relations Director: Mackenzie Carmichael Assistants: Abby Marshall, Anna Gist, Dasha Johnson
Merchandise Director: Natalie de la Guarda Assistant: Kendall Brockett
Finance Director: Amanda Ismaili Assistant: Clayton Riedl
Blog / Staff Writers Blog Director: Tori Berkowitz Writers: Alina Tkachova, Alanna Kouri, Emma Jo McAuliffe, Maison Fletcher, Debbie Sanon, Katie Kelley, Sarah Kern, Lilly Longoria, Amy Brecker, Hannah Stevens, Benjamin Cynamon
Photographers: Cover: Kiana Govind Seasonal: Kassidie Nieto & Samantha Brecker Lifestyle: Gillian McKendree Beauty: Gianna Stern Women's: Johnston Roberts Men's: Mikayla Gamble Editorial: Kiana Govind
Website: strike-magazine.com
Contact: eic.strike@gmail.com
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IN THIS ISSUE
Ghost Busters 6 A Nation Divided 16 Not Female, Not Male, Not Your Business 18
Out Here 19 How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Living an Awesome Life 28 Fashion Through the Decades 30 Early 2000's: Gone but not Forgotten 32 Food and Skin Diaries 33 Wellness for Wizards 34
Brazen Beauty 36 Make a Statement 46 Let's Talk Hair 47
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Close-Knit 73
Kiana Govind: Real Life Dream Catcher 57 The Goldenfly 58
Forever Young 48 The Origin and Evolution of Clout 56
Mad Men 59 Candice Pool Neistat 67 The Men's Guide to Accessorizing 68 Best Subscription Boxes for Men 69 Meet Rising Star, Noah Kahan 70 Best Albums of 2017 72
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Meet the Editors
A year from today, we founded this life-changing project, a publication free of constraints, honoring our creative integrity and highlighting the human experience. You’d think that the second time around would be a million times easier but not necessarily. With Strike, we are constantly pushing our boundaries and hoping to take everything to the next level. Sure, there was less pressure knowing we are capable of producing a magazine- we had the founding issue to prove it- but still, everything we wanted to do had to surpass expectations. Strike's reputation grew on Florida State’s campus making staffing an overwhelmingly rewarding process. Getting all the messages from aspiring models, photographers and creatives on our campus was unbelievably reassuring. It was such a pleasure to know that so many people care about highlighting culture, fashion, beauty and creativity. Strike Magazine is fueled by dedicated, creative geniuses binding together for one unique purpose. There is never a dull moment with our staff and the relationships we build in the process of making this
publication are by far the most rewarding part. People come out of nowhere, blinding you with talent and bringing your vision to the next level. These people know who they are, and we thank you for collaborating with our brand and making magic with us. A special shout out to our assistants, Katie, Sophie, and Lulu, the magazine would not be here without you. It’s amazing what you can create when you truly love what you’re doing. This issue brings a dynamic mix of playful and eerie, which allowed our staff to dive into their imagination. Volume 2 captures everything from raw carefree moments in the comfort of our home to awkward contrasts in unconventional locations like the on-campus gym. There have been moments where directors challenge us and we do the same to them and that’s what stimulates constant growth. We avoid the ordinary- conforming is not an option and boundaries are constantly pushed in the process of creating this publication. With this issue alone, two of our staff members went great lengths to interview their favorite celebrities- tweets, e-mails and insta DMs were sent and we
got in touch with Noah Kahan and Candice Neistat. To separate this issue from our last, we focused on highlighting upcoming trends and aimed for a season-appropriate aesthetic. Shooting and sharing these epic moments with our peers inspires and motivates us to continue creating captivating content. Every piece of feedback we get, whether it’s from the models we hire or the comments on our Instagram story, validates all of our hard work and difficult moments. Every shoot is a new adventure- new models, new photographers, new trends and a whole lot of new written content to pair with each one. Being surrounded by contributors full of fresh ideas continues to fuel the passion behind the content in this publication. The community we’ve created has vibrated through Florida State’s campus and allows us to bring this publication to fruition each semester. Thank you for following along through the creation of our second issue, we wouldn’t be here without everyone’s continued support. Strike out, HK and Nat Nat
Ghost Busters
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Mirror, Mirror
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A Nation Divided Tori Berkowitz Just about one year ago, I can recall spending a sunny Saturday morning in Miami, enjoying eggs, toast, and bottomless mimosas with my best friend and her boyfriend, John*. As someone who loves to talk about politics, despite it being considered taboo, it was no surprise that I let the recent election work its way into our conversation. “I didn’t really like either candidate,” John explained, “so I didn’t vote because I want my vote to go to someone I actually stand by and agree with.”
At first I was surprised, I wanted to grab him by the shoulders and shake him. I thought, you must be crazy. You should vote simply because you can, because you have the right to. Instead I listened, and I realize now what he said really resonated with me. While I did prefer one candidate to the other, there was not one that I whole-heartedly supported. I see why it would be frustrating to give your vote to a candidate you do not believe in, however I still feel that it is my responsibility as a citizen to stay educated and make an informed decision about which candidate I’m more supportive of, no matter how extreme they may seem. I asked other non-voters why they decided not to take on that responsibility, and thought it was best to withhold their vote. It is no surprise that this election was not only about political views, but character as well. Kelly* said, “I decided not to vote because I listened to everything the press said about both candidates, and I didn’t like either of them as people. I honestly couldn’t confidently vote for a candidate so I just never mailed in my ballot. I wrongly felt that I was only one person and my vote wouldn’t make an impact anyway. I definitely regret not voting. I wish I took more time to learn more about both parties and actually make a decision on who is the better candidate.” You have heard plenty of times before not to believe everything you read on the Internet, but whenever media coverage of an election occurs
it seems that we forget this golden rule. An easy way that people could have stayed informed was to take the test on isidewith.com. It asks you questions about relevant issues being discussed in the election, and tells you to what extent you agree with each of the candidates. While this may not have changed Kelly’s mind about liking a candidate for their character, at least she would have known how to vote for whichever platform she agreed with more. Although it is rare that everyone agrees with all decisions that the President makes, the legislation passed in the last year leans very far toward one end of the political spectrum. According to the 2016 U.S. Census, 34% of registered voters identify as moderate. With candidates so extreme, it makes sense why many struggled with deciding who to vote for, or did not feel comfortable giving their vote to someone who strayed pretty far from their beliefs. However, being that legislation has been extremely conservative, many non-voters might not have realized until now why their vote truly could have made a difference. When asked why he chose not to participate in the election, James said, “I felt both candidates weren’t really ideal choices and I’m over the arguments about this candidate verses this candidate. Everyone always blames the president for every issue in the U.S. When we were little it was Bush’s fault, then Obama was the ‘worst President ever’, and now everyone is so divided about Trump, it’s absurd.”
17 likely alternative. I don’t regret my decision not to vote, even though I disliked Trump during the primaries. I would rather have him over Hillary because with a republican president there would be a better chance of more conservative legislation being passed.”
Instead, he believes we should put putting our energy elsewhere, “I think people should focus more on who’s in Congress because those individuals are the idiots truly out of touch with the general public.” If you do not like what you have been seeing or hearing in the past year, then definitely take James’s advice and get in touch with your representatives. Head over to house.gov/representatives/find and senate.gov/senators/contact to find your representatives so you can call their offices directly and voice your opinion. You can simply say, “Hi my name is Sally, I’m a constituent of Florida, zipcode 12345. I’m opposed to the repeal of this legislation and I would encourage the Senator to oppose any type of repeal. Thank you!” While another peer, Matthew, did not vote, he fortunately agrees with a lot of the legislation being passed, “I consider myself republican and so I didn’t want to vote for Hillary due to my political beliefs, however I couldn’t bring myself to vote for Trump.” Like many others, he was shocked by Trump’s political success. “He wasn’t the candidate I wanted to win in the GOP primaries, I didn’t like the way he conducted his campaign, and I also thought there was no chance he would win anyway. At the time I was accepting of the idea of Hillary being president even though I didn’t like many of her policies, just because Trump didn’t seem like a
the last presidential election, and whether or not you voted for President Trump, it is safe to say that the divide we have witnessed from last year’s election has affected your day-to-day lives, and potentially your relationships with other people.
Others experienced registration issues that prevented them from voting. For example, Cristina said, “my voter registration card came in too close to elections and the information on it was wrong. They spelled my name incorrectly, so I didn’t think they would let my vote count. I wish I did vote because it’s not like I didn’t want to, I had every intention to, but my information was incorrect.”
Prior to my brunch conversation, I never understood why an American citizen would decide against submitting their ballot, and it helped further enforce the fact that this election was not like anything we had seen before. There were multiple candidates that people did not respect at all, there were candidates whose chances were damaged based on their character, and there were voters who just simply could not stand behind either of them.
Vanessa felt similarly when there was a mistake with receiving her absentee ballot, “I do wish that I would have voted and sent in an absentee ballot because it’s a privilege to be able to vote as an American woman. I was 18 so it would have been my first election that I was allowed to participate in.”
It was so much more than just choosing a candidate you agreed with. Reflecting on the past year makes me concerned for the future. Perhaps candidates that people genuinely do not want to vote for are the new normal, because a year later, a lot of non-voters are still standing by their decision.
It has been just over a year since
*Names have been changed
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Not Female, Not Male, Not Your Business. Carli Solomon
An important trend was seen in 2017 that we are hoping will stay strong or grow even stronger as we move into the new year. A trend that isn’t physical or small-scale by any means. It sparked and spread in 2017 more than ever before, becoming a new way of life for modern society. So what is this trend that’s taken 2017 by storm? It’s acceptance. Yes, acceptance…and it’s frickin’ electrifying. Now before you become disappointed by the “biggest trend of 2017” being acceptance, a word we are all already so familiar with, let me explain why it is so revolutionary. Our society has been growing for centuries, not by the amount of people or by urbanization, but by the ways in which we have allowed for change and diversity. In the past few years we have seen undeniable progress for the LGBTQ community as well as advancements for cultural acceptance. 2016 set the path for LGBTQ acceptance with many historical achievements, such as the ban on transgender people serving openly in the U.S. military being lifted in June of 2016 and the summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro having the highest number of “out” athletes compete (CNN). In 2017, the acceptance of the LGBTQ community has accelerated, giving the community more rights and is moving towards an all-accepting America. One of the most recent, and profound examples of acceptance that society saw was the allowance of an “x” option for gender on a driver’s license. This option is to recognize non-binary people, or people who simply do not identify with the male or female gender. This option is extremely important for those who
feel that they do not match the gender identification given on their ID, since they were forced to choose between male or female. Oregon became the first state to offer this option in June, with the District of Columbia passing the same bill shortly after. California has become the most recent state to allow this option on their state IDs, and more states are expected to do the same. Although some people still may not completely understand the importance of this third option on the ID or may even be opposed, it is undeniably a huge step towards accepting people no matter how they identify or do not identify themselves. Oregon governor Kate Brown, spoke out about the bill saying that, “it’s an important step towards creating a society that upholds the rights, liberties, and dignity of each of it’s people” (NBC News). This option gives people more privacy and comfort in knowing that they are not locked into a gender that they do
not feel they can identify with. Most importantly, people of the LGBTQ community are beginning to feel fully accepted for who they are, allowing them to be comfortable in their own skin and feel like an equal part of society. An incredible amount of progress was made for everybody this year, whether it be the person who decided they were going to be more accepting of someone, or the person who is finally feeling like they are being accepted. America should be proud of the country it has become, a country that strives for equality and acceptance. Of course, there is still more progress to be made for the LGBTQ community but 2017 created a trend that will definitely prosper in 2018. Society will be eagerly waiting as more states follow in the footsteps of Oregon, D.C., and California and acknowledge the need for equal rights.
Out Here
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How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness
and Start Living an Awesome Life Hannah Kealy
Throughout the course of this semester, I have read a handful of depressing yet incredibly thought-provoking novels. With the start of each book it only took a chapter or two for me to begin wallowing in my self pity and crying for the profoundly depressed characters. And when I was not focusing on my own books, I was low key hating on my roommate for choosing books with titles like “YOU ARE A BADASS.” How could she waste her time reading these self-help books when she could be delving into different cultures, time periods and societies? I thought it was almost selfish to invest that much time in herself instead of others. Yeah, red flag. That scenario alone illustrates some naive and backwards thinking. I was at a point in my life where the negativity was beginning to get overwhelming, so I caved. I asked my roommate to hand over her “life-changing” book despite my preconceived notion based on the lame AF title, You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life. Five pages in and I felt personally victimized. It took a lot to get through the first chapter because I did not want to admit that Jen Sincero was right, and I was wellversed in negative thinking. I was being a snobby English major pretending to be above a self-help book, because in comparison to the books I usually read like The Bell Jar, it did not seem like there was anyone on the planet who genuinely loved themselves and the lives they lived— all the time. It is not easy to
to undermine those realities, but I think this book is an amazing piece of literature to turn to in times of serious self-doubt. worry about how I was feeling and why, when I was distracted studying these extremely complex characters. I needed a reminder and Sincero's book is full of them. I had to remember that everything in these novels is dramatized to get me immensely invested in each of the characters and it is normal to feel this kind of hopelessness after reading a profoundly depressing story. Everyone has their days but the point is, you will have a lot less if you realize your reality develops based on your perception. So why not perceive everything positively? Sincero will remind you that, “there’s nothing as unstoppable as a freight train full of fuck yeah.” After all, we are unique masterpieces born into an abundant universe. There is nothing worth getting wrapped up in when positivity yields much more beneficial results. I recognize that depression and anxiety are real and sometimes shit hits the fan. I am in no way trying
Yes, everything does have a silver lining. Yes, Dumbledore was right when he said, “happiness can be found in the darkest of times if only one remembers to turn on the light.” Again, I know you have heard these mantras over and over again but there is something about this book that makes them stick. Jen Sincero is funny, she is not preaching or spewing, instead she makes you feel like she truly gets it. She hits every aspect of negativity, and then shows you how easy improvement can be. Everyone is different, so how is this book going to work for you specifically? There is one thing we all have in common, loving ourselves is necessary for survival. I always believed that I was full of love and had the ability to make a difference, but there was one thing that was preventing me from being positive. I convinced myself that if I continued to sacrifice all my happiness for others, somehow the universe would recognize how hard I was trying to brighten everyone else’s life that
29 you to read. Of course I still care about other people and their happiness, but I have discovered that I should not be ashamed of putting myself first. I am not going to magically be happy because everyone around me is happy. Maybe this is not a problem you personally face, but I can guarantee that Sincero will hit on stuff that applies to you because I have somehow convinced every person I know to read this book and they have all thanked me. Self love is becoming such a popular topic of conversation because everyone needs to realize that LOVING YOURSELF IS NOT A CRIME. In fact, I would go as far as saying it is almost as essential as food and water. Sincero reminds us to make yourself the priority, face our fears and remember how important it is to stay true to yourself. eventually mine would just start shining. Now, a lot of you are still reading and thinking, you read a book and suddenly you’re happy? Yeah right. Well guess what, if you are thinking this way, that means you are 1) Thinking about me instead of you— that’s a no-no 2) Doubting your ability to change your attitude 3) Pissing off the Universe A lot of this would make more sense if you would just stop reading my article and dive into this kick-ass book, but since this book changed my life I am going to continue to ramble until I literally run out of space on this page. Because guess what? Writing is true to me. I love it. I love that this article may help someone who needs it. I love that it is not my problem if you want to continue being a grouchy grinch. Guess where I learned that? Yup, the book I am trying to convince
I want to leave you with some of my favorite quotes from Sincero herself. Afterall, she has a much deeper grasp on being a badass, and while I am still a work in progress, I am proud of it.
“You cut yourself off from the supply of awesomeness when you are not in a state of
gratitude.” “What other people think about you has nothing to do with you and everything to do with them.” “Faith is your best buddy when you’re scared shitless.” “If you want to attract good things and feelings into your life, send awesomeness to everyone out and around you.” “Going out in the world and trying, yet still deep down believing that you’re ruled by your past circumstances is like forgiving someone but still hoping they sit in something wet.”
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Fashion Through Trend’s from the 80’s, 90’s and 2000’s that we still see today Sarah Kern
College fashion has shifted with the times, but today styles from the 80’s, 90’s, and even the early 2000’s are making their way back into the closets of the modern youth. With the resurgence of “vintage” styles, we have found ourselves digging through mom’s closet and countless thrift
stores to find the perfect pair of Levi’s or that priceless vintage Louis Vuitton.
Essentials of the 80’s 80’s fashion holds its own in the span of time by being the most daring, colorful, and bold of the 20th century. With Madonna mania and the rock and roll scene breaking through the walls of conformed media, we saw big hair and even bigger shoulder pads. While these iconic looks are not on the fashion scene anymore, several 80’s styles have emerged once again on runways and in the closets of the everyday millennial. The trend you will most easily recognize is the mom jean. This highwaisted, straight-cut jean flatters almost every body type and defines the waist without suffocating the legs. Designers, such as Levi’s, have updated and re-cut the mom jean to put a modern twist on this timeless classic. Paired with a white t-shirt, or a boho blouse, the mom jean has, once again, become a fashion staple. Fishnet tights and everyday lingerie have also re-emerged from the fashion time capsule. Each of these items adds a sexy touch to any outfit and can help you channel the energy of your favorite rock and roll rebel. Today, they peep their way through ripped jeans and crop tops making a sensual statement in the simplest, letting women show off that rebellious side effortlessly.
90’s Necessities The 90’s introduced the unforgettable boy band craze, and changed rap forever with the music of Biggie Smalls, Tupac, and Snoop Dogg. Along with a musical transformation, the 90’s brought us a quintessential
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the Decades example of modern fashion breaking onto the scene. Some of the styles that define the 90’s include jean jackets, high top adidas, and of course, the legendary Rachel Green haircut. Today, we are starting to see these trends make a resurgence in both high fashion and street style. Tommy Hilfiger is one who has embraced the 90’s throwback and recently released a collection that is practically identical to some of his earlier designs. Partnering with model Gigi Hadid, Hilfiger has given a new image to his clothing. As one of the most influential models of the 21st century, Gigi is the runway model that younger generations strive to be like. From slouchy sweatshirts to puffer vests, these new collections scream 90’s fashion and are effortlessly making their way into millennial closets. Another look from the 90’s that we see every day is denim in all shapes, sizes, and styles. Some may say that it never went out of style, but over the years we have seen its popularity come and go. But not to worry, because today, denim jackets, shirts, shorts, skirts, and dresses are everywhere and it is not uncommon to pair more than one denim item with another for a chic but laid-back look.
Totally 2000’s The early 2000’s were a rough time in fashion history but iconic nonetheless. From Paris Hilton to P!nk, we saw layering to the tenth
degree, chunky jewelry, low rise jeans, and capris. The tinier the skirt, the better and next thing we knew the red carpet became flooded with tacky shoes and crimped hair. While it was a questionable clothing era, several styles from the early 2000’s are creeping back into our lives.
The most notable of these is the tube top. Back in the early 2000’s, we saw tube tops paired with cargo pants (a tragedy) but with the very fortunate evolution of fashion, we now see them walking down the runway paired with high waisted jeans and Adidas sneakers. One company that has truly embraced the early 2000’s is Urban Outfitters. They are the “one-step-ahead” innovators of the millennial fashion scene and are able to establish styles easily due to their ever-growing customer base. Most recently, we have seen Urban re-establish the layered slip dress which was a key ingredient to the early 2000’s runway style. This is a simple look that incorporates a tiny white tee and a slip dress often worn with a cute pair of sneakers or booties. Urban Outfitters is constantly on the cusp of revamping lost styles and successfully have re-introduced some fashion that we never imaged coming back. Fashion is a cornerstone to society and has been a defining factor of each historical era. As time passes we see styles come and go but the greats will never leave us. From flare jeans to crop tops, some styles will never go out of fashion. Someday, our era will be defined by the mash up and modernization of 20th and early 21st century styles and be considered some of the best dressed years in history.
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EARLY 2000’s CHARACTERS: Gone But Not Forgotten Katie Laycock & Millicent Leeds
Ahh the early 2000’s…
a much simpler time when we all kicked off our Heely’s on a Friday night, invited our bestie to sleepover (who’s wearing the other half of the BFF necklace), and found ourselves in a heated debate over who was cuter, Zack or Cody?! These were the good ole days. Nowadays, I scroll through Instagram, keeping up with my childhood idols and their day to day lives and this has me thinking… What in the HECK would my favorite childhood characters be up to today if their shows had continued? So I reverted back to my childhood brain...brainstormed, placed my unqualified feet in the producer’s shoes and came up with the fate of our beloved childhood characters.
Alex Russo from Wizards of Waverly Place
Back in the day, Alex Russo had everything we wanted: beauty, jokes, and magical powers. Well, I’ll have you know, SHE’S. STILL. GOT. IT. After defying the odds and winning the family wizard competition, she was accepted into the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. She met THE Harry Potter and found herself caught in a love triangle after she met a muggle named Justin Bieber. She and Justin broke things off in 2015, but have since been seen hanging out again in Waverly place I think NOT.
Drake & Josh
Determined to make it big, Drake and Josh headed to Hollywood after graduating high school. Josh quickly gained momentum as a comedian and now runs his own successful vlog channel. He does hot yoga every week and even drinks a daily green juice. While strolling the aisles of Whole Foods, he ran into Oprah and finally got to apologize for running her
over that one time. Drake, however, is still working at the Premiere movie theatre as the new Helen. After a big Twitter feud, Drake called out Josh for not inviting him to his wedding. I think we all can assume who was behind that one - Meeeeegan!
Jimmy Neutron
We all remember Jimmy as the 10 year old boy genius who blasted off to space in his homemade rocket. Most people would think Jimmy would grow up and use his super brain to cure cancer or take over the world. BUT, Jimmy, now referred to as “Jimbo” took his love of rockets and started a band with his best pal Sheen called 30 Seconds to Mars. Jimbo went from super nerd to super douche who ghosts girls all the time with his signature tagline #gottablast.
Hannah Montana
Now that everyone knows about Hannah’s real identity, she no longer
worries about the burden of living the best of both worlds. Hannah found herself as the newest member of Taylor Swift’s squad. And Sweet Niblets!!! - she still drunk calls Jake every Saturday night, but makes sure to post quotes on her Instagram stories Sunday morning about being a strong, independent woman.
Spongebob Squarepants
By day he’s flipping burgers, but by night Spongebob Squarepants is Bikini Bottom’s favorite Uber Driver. After (finally) getting his boater’s license, Mr. Squarepants went on to be the trusted driver everyone calls after a good night out in Rock Bottom. He always has a stash of grandma’s cookies and lots of chooooooocolate ready for any passenger! Gary is always riding shotgun and his customers love posting drunk snapchats of him on their stories.
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Top Worst Foods for Your Skin It has come to a point in our lives where microwave mac n’ cheese and dining out for every meal is much easier than being healthconscious. We all know better though. We know that it is time to grow up, figure out what is best for our body, and incorporate it into our daily lives. There are a few things that are delicious and have become a staple in our college diet, and unfortunately, you are about to find out exactly why they are causing more harm than good. We all have our guilty pleasures, those certain sugary snacks and drinks we cannot help but crave. Unfortunately for us, the biggest problem our skin fights against is our sweet tooth. Sugar causes the skin to weaken, affecting important tissues in your skin like collagen and elastin which are the proteins that keep your skin soft and plump. For all you sugar fanatics out there, it is not the chocolate itself is not the breakout culprit, but rather the sugar levels in it. If you can not live without it, grab the darker stuff – the darker the healthier, less sugar, and happier skin!
Now that I have just burst your bubble, here is a duo that will destroy your beautiful complexion: caffeine and alcohol. Two things that us college kids rely on heavily, and sometimes even mix (honestly, what is wrong with us), are not doing our skin any favors. Caffeine and alcohol are natural diuretics, which means the more you drink, the more you dehydrate your skin. Dehydration for both oily and dry skin types means that those wrinkles and fine lines appear bigger and more prominent. No primer, foundation, or baking will hide those babies. If those days do arise, remember to drink the recommended 8 glasses of water a day to fight against dehydration and keep your skin feeling smooth. 3 down and 2 to go. You can do this. Inhale. Think of beautiful, clear, soft, skin. Exhale. You are almost there. This goes out to all the late-night cookie-cravers, I am truly very sorry. That glass of milk for your Oreo or two, or twelve, need to be left in the fridge. Cow’s milk naturally increases your blood sugar causing
Haleigh Feix
inflammation and pimples. And those horrible pores on your nose? Thank the higher insulin levels in milk for the production of skin oils which leads to sebum production. On top of that, the number of hormones found in pregnant cows also adds to the sebum and an overgrowth in cells which can block your pores. No matter how many blackhead strips you do, those guys will still be there. No, thank you. Last but not least, we all can understand the shameful feeling that comes with pulling away from the drive through, concerned about breakouts, cysts, and a feeling of whether or not it was worth it. But let’s be real, there is no need to feel ashamed, because we have all left the club for 2am McDonald’s, Checkers, or whatever your guilty pleasure fast food may be. We all know it is hard to resist, so just remember that the next day, you must refuel your body with healthy probiotics and other foods high in natural antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids.
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Wellness for Wizards Nicole Tripodis
If we can take-away anything from 2017, it should be that the concept of “wellness” has become nextlevel elusive. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is no longer a matter of diet and exercise. Today, achieving wellness is a dynamic process that requires tools more elaborate than ever. You have probably seen them everywhere by now — those tiny medicine dropper bottles that are just so damn alluring for some reason. What is inside that could possibly call for such meticulous
delivery? It is essential oil. The new era of wellness has made essential oil a fundamental step to a proper skincare routine. It makes sense — skin naturally covers itself with oils to moisturize and protect our cells from damaging. When the skin is too dry, a common effect from most facial cleansers and toners, our skin sends out a signal to produce more oil from below the surface, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Adding drops of essential oils to your face everyday keeps the skin moisturized enough for the
body’s oil-producer signals to take a timeout. Plus, these essential oils out on the market are made up with other vitamins and supplements that nourish the skin beyond what our bodies are naturally capable of. Beyond our skin, essential oils also dabble in the field of mind control. Different oils and extracts work to influence our brains, eliciting or suppressing neurotransmitters. This means that by simply inhaling the scent of an oil, our mood can shift from hopelessly lazy, to ready for a 5K. People rely on oils to relax before
Lemon Skin benefit: ultra hydration Also good for: boosting mood
Peppermint Skin benefit: heals acne, relieves inflammation Also good for: mental alertness, relieving headaches
Lavender Skin benefit: relieves irritation Also good for: calming nerves, falling asleep
Rosemary Skin benefit: heals damage from sun exposure Also good for: increasing memory
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a presentation, cheer up after some bad news, and focus on studying for an exam. No, they’re not drugs, just raw scents that work with mother nature to fine tune our brains. Wellness in 2017 cannot be discussed without mentioning crystals. These rocks have made their way out of the caves and onto our faces. Even though a good amount of skepticism comes along with this approach to skincare, people swear that crystals are responsible for improving their skin. Unlike most products that
work by being absorbed into pores, crystals function with energy. The prisms of the crystalline structure work to channel energy that acts in accordance with its molecular makeup. The energy that the crystal attracts gets rubbed off on its surroundings and its atmosphere, giving whatever is in its presence all of the benefits. Sleep with a crystal under your pillow, rub it between your hands then transfer the energy to your face, or simply roll it around troubled areas for skin to truly heal from vibes and only vibes. Luckily, crystals will benefit you beyond
Sulphur Skin benefit: heals acne and breakouts Also good for: ridding negative thoughts, enhances creativity
Amethyst Skin benefit: promotes cell turnover Also good for: spirituality, grief, protection from thieves
just your skin. These sparkly stones channel energy for other areas in life, like romance, physical safety, and financial success. Here are some crystals and essential oils that you should get your hands on right now. You can thank us later when you’re a glowing, energetic, peaceful superhuman, with excellent pores.
Aventurine Skin benefit: relieves extra dry skin Also good for: heightening intelligence, stimulating the imagination
Rose quartz Skin benefit: banishes red splotches and eczema Also good for: romance, trust, and friendship
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Brazen Beauty
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MAKE A STATEMENT Haleigh Feix
Falling victim to generic makeup routines is something that we all tend to struggle with. It is fast, easy, and comfortable, but at the same time it can become boring. Do you find yourself wishing there was a way to spice up your makeup look? There are so many easy ways to make your beauty routine interesting and lively by experimenting with a statement look.
Glow Up We can all agree that highlight is the most recently proclaimed essential makeup product. Everyone is raving over the next biggest highlight, from “unicorn” rainbow shades, to Rihanna’s pure gold Killawatt. Every single color has become acceptable and the more the merrier. Keep the cheeks and eyes light and layer on your favorite highlighter like never before. The trick to get the boldest glow is to either start with a liquid base highlighter that you can build on, or spritz your brush with setting spray to make the color more intensely pigmented.
Powerful Pout Try a bold lip. Jeffree Star’s makeup line has such unique shades, you did not even know they could be used as lip color. With everything from neon green, to gray, to black, there is no shortage of colors you have yet to try. Fall is the perfect time for this because you can rock a dark lip without looking like a dead person. I recommend keeping the eye and face makeup light to keep the focus where you want it, as well as concealing around the lips to prevent bleeding, no matter the formula.
Blush Baby Color is your best friend no matter what the season. Try out a monochromatic look by using one color for your eyelids, lips, and cheeks. The days of sharp contour are ending, and getting replaced with sweet shades of blush. Grab your shade and blend it all over your cheekbones like you would with a contour or bronzer. Next, bring it into your eyelids to use as an eyeshadow. Stick to warm colors like rose, peach, or burnt orange. The result is a fiery look with a hint of anime-blushed cheeks.
Linear Liner Geometric or Spatial liner. Instead of ending with a wing, curve your liner back up through the crease of your eye. This look is being worn all over the runways and is ideal for people who just can not master the winged liner look. You can totally personalize it by going crazy with lines and dots and swirls, or keep it simple by making a triangle in the outer ‘v’ of the eye. It draws attention to your eyes without people staring to see if both sides are even, which we all know has happened before. Instead of going for your signature day or nighttime look, think about ways to add something fresh into your routine. There are so many opportunities to make your beauty routine a part of you, rather than letting it simply be product that sits on your skin. You should use your makeup look to let your personality shine and take a step out of your comfort zone. Makeup has become a way for me to express myself and allows for me to create something new. I hope these tips encourage you to be your own artist.
Let's Talk Hair
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This is the hair product every girl should own Emily Gibson Ok, so let’s talk hair. Depending on the day, good or bad, your hair matters.
around with a wet head all morning? Dove has you covered.
And if we are being honest here, having good-looking hair everyday is a huge responsibility. I know for me, it takes four or five products after washing it, plus a solid hour of styling to get it looking and feeling great. Most people would never guess that my hair is naturally a frizzy mess,and I owe it all to my number one must- have product, dry shampoo. I have tried everything from high-end salon quality products to whatever is on clearance at the nearest drug store, and this is what I have concluded:
For my people with dry and damaged hair, I have that one figured out. I spent a year dealing with highlights gone wrong and washing my hair everyday with hydrating shampoos simply was not doing the trick anymore. I became obsessed with Amika: Perk Up dry shampoo. Amika has a blend of the best vitamins and fatty acids in its formula that are essential for nursing your beautiful locks back to health. If you have thinner, more fine hair this product is a must! It sprays on lighter than other dry shampoos, and does not create any sort of build up, but still leaves your hair
My all-time favorite brand for hair products is Living Proof, so when I had the opportunity to try out their Perfect Hair Day dry shampoo, they had high expectations to live up to. This dry shampoo did everything I needed and more. I love to run, but I hate worrying whether or not I should skip out on happy hour because that means I would have to wash my hair again. Living Proof provided me with exactly what I needed to feel like I just walked out of my house with fresh, clean hair. Perfect Hair Day soaks up the sweat and odor leaving you with brand new hair in less than a minute. If you are worried about residue, this product does an amazing job on all hair types because it essentially leaves no powdery buildup behind. Not to mention, PhD has an amazing fresh time-elapsed scent that will leave your hair smelling fabulous all day long. For a day or two into the wash when you just want to have that fresh hair look again, I love Batiste’s dry shampoo. It makes sense why it is the top selling brand for dry shampoo in the UK considering this product does such a fabulous job. It adds the texture back into your hair, giving your curls from last night a refreshed look. If you have really fine hair that gets greasy right away, my pick would be Dove Refesh & Care Volume and Fullness. This product is super lightweight and extremely inexpensive. It absorbs oil and the unwanted greasiness without leaving a thick build up. Need some volume when you wake up and do not feel like walking
feeling soft and silky in the best way possible. The biggest pro of Amika is the fragrance. I have had so many people ask me what type of perfume I wear on the days I use Amika. After playing around with all these different products, I have realized that no matter what type of hair day you are having, there is a dry shampoo out there to help you with all your hair needs. But as always, desperate times call for desperate measures, so when I can not get to the store, baby powder will always do the trick for me, but the benefits of a good dry shampoo are infinite!
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Forever Young
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The Origin and Evolution of Clout Natalie Campion
Clout has become a worldwide phenomenon in the past few months, and I am here to confirm whether or not you have it, and why I most definitely do. Despite what people may believe, the word ‘clout’ has been around since the 14th century, and according to Merriam-Webster it is defined as “having influence or power, especially in politics or business.” Although it still has the same technical meaning today, clout has evolved into a lifestyle; a way of being. The millennial way of expressing clout was born when round, white sunglasses, deemed “clout goggles” became a fashion staple. These sunglasses have been around since the '60s and could be found on the runways of Emilio Pucci and on the faces of supermodels such as Twiggy and Pattie Boyd.
story. It was epic. I could not leave the house for weeks without getting swarmed by paparazzi asking me hardhitting questions, like if my beloved stuffed animal, Piggy, was still having an affair with Kylie Jenner’s dog, Norman. Perhaps it was inevitable that I would commit to the clout lifestyle, but I never would have thought I had been living it all along. For those of you who are still confused on what the word “clout” means, I conducted extensive research in order to inform the lowly on what it feels like.
no clout.”
Bryce Clayton: “Clout means to me a level of distinction that is universal beyond walls, borders, and social class ... clout is effortless, timeless and iconic—something that is earned and sets you apart from those around you. Clout isn’t just what new designer items you have or the pieces that make up your wardrobe or fill your home. Clout is the power you have over others, the style you keep consistent, your personality that fuels your reputation and the influence you leave on others.”
CLOUTCLOUT CLOUTCLOUT CLOUTCLOUT CLOUTCLOUT CLOUTCLOUT
The couture houses of Yves Saint Laurent and Acne Studios are responsible for their return to the fashion scene. Their recent popularity is also attributed to fashionforward rappers such as Lil Yatchy, Migos, and Quavo. Today’s clout lifestyle begins with a natural understanding of what it means to be unapologetically cool, trendy, breathtaking, hilarious, and stunning. Personally, it is easy for me to see that I have epitomized each of these qualities for quite some time now, and therefore have clout.
I realized I had clout in the summer of 2016 when my personal Snapchat stories went viral. I get chills just thinking about it. I made a celeb inspired snapchat story, (Q&A style of course) where all of my loyal followers tweeted me questions to answer via my snapchat
Below, please find some of the most precise interpretations of clout, written by the most remarkable people I know. Bridget Walsh: “Clout is a modern day swag. So, having clout is the equivalent to having influence, and with my mass following on social media, my clout holds me accountable to a higher standard of living, as opposed to someone who has
Abby Perry: “The forecast every day for me always has a slight chance of clouty skies.”
Reid Thompson: “Clout is, like, just being a vibe. Or being the vibe not just a vibe.” The point is, you either have it or you do not. It is not a skill one can learn or teach, like long division; it is something that permeates through your being and transcends all people and places. Having clout, to me, is being the perfect blend of Barack Obama and Jennifer Aniston with a hint of Paris Hilton in a pink Juicy tracksuit. What I am really trying to say here is that this lifestyle is no easy feat. I have written at length why, but to be perfectly frank, having clout is not determined by purchasing your own pair of Clout goggles on Amazon prime. But rather, being the pair of clout goggles that everyone is ordering with two-day express shipping. So there you have it: a way of being that makes you infinitely cooler than the rest. Do you have clout?
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Kiana Govind: Real Life Dream Catcher Ariana Jurado
After graduation, we dream to wake up each morning and grab our favorite cup of coffee from our favorite barista... mine is Sebastian from Starbucks. After that, we skip on over to work where the agenda consists of fueling our burning passions each day, and WAIT- we’re getting paid at the same time! Sounds pretty realistic and achievable right? Well, after speaking to Kiana Govind, a junior at FSU and professional photographer/blogger, I realized that this dream is not that far from a reality. We got the opportunity to sit down with her and learn about her inspiring passion for photography, how it all began, and where it’s all headed. In the 8th grade, Kiana remembers watching her father operate a simple point-and-shoot camera. She quickly developed a fascination for the mechanical aspect of the camera and how it was able to capture a still moment that would last forever. She begged her father for a camera under the condition that she received straight A’s. Although she ended the semester with one B+, Kiana finally received her first Nikon camera. What began as a fascination
for taking random photos of her dog, cereal boxes, and any other object that encountered her camera lens, has transformed into a passion and career path. It wasn’t until junior year of high school where Kiana realized her passion for photography could become a business. One of Kiana’s classmates asked if she would retake her senior photos, and after posting the photo on twitter, 25 other classmates requested re-takes. Five years later, Kiana has shot over 300 clients and counting. “A random girl DM’d me on Instagram to take her photos. During the shoot, she mentioned that she and her boyfriend broke up and she was feeling insecureshe kept on pointing out things that were wrong with her. She called me crying after she got the photos and said that I made her feel beautiful. I helped her see herself in a better light and she’s my best friend now.”- Kiana Govind Kiana’s photography focuses on portraits of people. She says, “I’ve tried to get myself to shoot more landscapes, but I
always go back to people. Everyone is just so different.” She believes the most rewarding part of her job is the people she gets to meet at each photo shoot. Kiana’s passion brings other like-minded people to her, and she has made lasting relationships with some of her clients. Some of Kiana’s biggest role models are Casey Neistat and Monica Church, and while she is heavily inspired by their style, she is working to develop her own each day. Kiana’s style revolves around being transparent in her photos. She wants her viewers to relate to her work and gain a sense of who she is. Her presence on social media aims to emphasize that she is just a college kid trying to make it like the rest of us. So if you are all feeling as inspired as I am...go grab your favorite coffee from your favorite barista and check out Kiana Govind Photography. Website: Kianagovind.com Instagram: @Kianagovind.com Youtube: Kianagovind
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The Goldenfly Nicole Tripodis
Every fashion week, the streetstyle spectacle attracts just as much attention as the shows on the runway. Outside of the venue doors among fluttering blouses and impossible stilettos, there stands a guy that the scene cannot seem to keep its attention away from lately. Ivan Zinko is a fresh face who walks around like he is doing everyone in his presence a favor, because, they must admit it—he is. Head to toe, he is always the most impeccably dressed person in the room, styling himself in the latest Balenciaga, Off White, Raf Simons and every other sought-after designer of the moment. You may find him backstage hanging out with famous rappers like Future, while sipping on something that looks like a mojito. Back in 2008 while we were all jamming out to Katy Perry’s “I Kissed a Girl”, that fashion-mystery-man was brought into the world. Yes, Ivan is just nine years old. He is the son of London-based fashion and jewelry designer, Natasha Zinko, who has been known for her impressive street style looks in her own right. Recently, Natasha has been bringing her son along to fashion week and all that comes with it, (Dolce & Gabbana’s
after party, VIP at Rihanna’s Fenty collection, just to name a few) where he effortlessly serves high-street looks that would put anyone in his presence to a pathetic, existential crisis-invoking shame. On social media, Ivan is known as “thegoldenfly.” For a nine-year old, his social media presence is remarkably sophisticated. Check out his Instagram page and you’ll find him in his signature pose, standing slouched with a hand covering his face; a pose akin to his keeping of a low and shady profile, much not-similar to my own 4th grade, retainer-clad selfies with my Aaron Carter poster. It’s safe to say that Ivan Zinko has a lofty head start on his future in fashion. Beyond holding the title of “street style icon” at nine, Zinko can also rightfully call himself an emerging fashion designer. Last year, he collaborated with his mother for a collection of designer kids’ clothes called DUO, available exclusively at London’s Harrods. What’s next for this fashion prodigy? Maybe fifth grade, maybe Vogue— we’ll see what the future holds.
@thegoldenfly
Mad Men
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Candice Pool Neistat Katie Laycock
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your decisions and just trusting your gut. That is what excites me most about Billy!. Finn is very fancy (for lack of a better word), which means there are levels of expectations to be met. I love designing jewelry, but having to meet expectations got old after 12 years.” K: What inspired your entrepreneurial spirit to start your company 12 years ago? C: “Honestly, I was incapable of working for someone else. I hated that my energy was spent making someone else successful. That’s not to say being a team member isn’t important. That’s also not to say that being your own boss doesn’t come with its own world of problems and stressors. But I can’t function working for other people.”
Located on the top floor of a NoHo office building in New York City is the jewelry designer and Billy! Founder, Candice Pool Neistat. She probably just rolled in, almond latte in hand, looking effortlessly cool in her tomboy-esque attire and is now seated with her high-tops perched on top of her desk, ready to get down to business. (I’ll have you know, Candice, I’d share a conversation over an almond latte at Starbucks with you anyday.) From the start, Candice has had the boss mindset and go-getter confidence that has driven her to launching two of her very own successful companies. Combining her love for jewelry with her entrepreneurial attitude, Candice launched her very first company, Finn Jewelry, 12 years ago from her studio apartment. The high-end Finn Jewelry collection is comprised of beautifully arranged diamonds and precious stones in 18 karat yellow gold settings that have graced the red carpet and are often photographed on her A-list celebrity clients. Instead of staying comfortable and immersing herself into just one successful company, Candice focused on evolving her designing expertise into a new brand she named, Billy!.
Channeling a new masculine vibe, Billy! was started with one design in mind, and that is Candice’s favorite: the scapular necklace. The pieces come in sterling silver or yellow gold with engraved dangling tags that can be personalized with letters, digits, and sayings.
“I started a whole new brand. Fuck it.” I decided to reach out to Candice and see for myself how this do-it-all, wife, mother, and businesswoman turned her passions into an impressive career. Q&A: K: I love that you are not afraid to do things “your way” and have completely rebranded and started a new company. What excites you most about Billy! And creating such a different brand from your other jewelry company, Finn?” C: “I want to be clear that I’ve always been rebellious, but I’ve only just become brave. I think this comes with age - caring less what people think of
K: What advice do you have for someone coming right out of college with dreams of being a #girlboss like yourself? C: “Get a job. Be a team member. If you can’t get a job of your dreams, take whatever you can get and be the best whatever in the company. I wouldn’t have been able to start a company if I didn’t have experience cleaning bar wear, working for tips, answering phones, taking out trash. Experience is an absolute necessity. Any life experience. I get so frustrated when young people say they hate their internships and they can’t get a job in their field. My first job was driving carpool. I certainly didn’t expect to end up a chauffeur. My second job was as a temporary holiday gift wrapper. I certainly didn’t expect to work at Williams Sonoma stock room forever. Along the way and with each experience you get stronger and more confident. ONLY THEN are you ready to make a move.” There you have it, straight from the queen and fearless leader herself. A lot of you reading this may be approaching that confusing time in your life when you’re trying to figure it all out - even if you don’t know what that “it” is yet. Billy! is more than a company that makes jewelry. It is the brainchild of a badass businesswoman named Candice who paid her dues while chasing her dreams.
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The Men's Guide to Accessorizing Natalie de la Guarda
Accessorizing is what we call the magic that can transform your outfit into a look. While women are typically more inclined to accessorize, you might find it shocking that a new wave of jewelry for men has recently helped them become more well-rounded dressers. Many men avoid venturing into the territory of accessories out of fear of being less masculine, but as always in fashion, it is never a bad idea to toss conventions aside.
The Perfect Specs
Out of all the accessories, eyewear is the most common among men. Wayfarers and aviators are typically the go-to, but guys, venture out and try a bolder look to stand out from the crowd. Double-bridged rounded glasses stay true to the overall appeal of aviator styles, but add flashiness with metallic accents that make your everyday wear seem a bit more polished. If a square shaped frame suits you better, D-Frame glasses soften up the edges while also highlighting the features of a block style. Try opting for a tortoise shell color to brighten up a darker color scheme. Finally, if you are more daring, oval sunglasses take a recognizable shape from the 90’s, and will set you apart with a cool, relaxed finish.
It’s Cuffing Season
With brands like Miansai, who were originally founded with the intent of providing refined yet masculine styles, adding jewelry to your wardrobe is a lot less daunting. The key to men’s jewelry is to add the
function of a cuff bracelet or ring, but stick to silver or matte finishes in order to upgrade the existing outfit, and maintain that essence of minimalism. For example, the combination of a leather bracelet and brass cuff can modernize an otherwise casual outfit with the balance of rugged and metallic undertones.
Put a Ring On It
Rings do not seem to translate as easily over to men’s accessories, but they have the ability to fully pull together an ensemble and make you look and feel like a rockstar. Harry Styles, Keith Richards, 2 Chainz and even Elvis Presley back in the day, have added bold and chunky rings to their personal style. However, if flashiness is not your thing, take a simpler approach with something like a hex ring. The clean, geometric shapes take your look to the next level, giving a simple band a whole lot of edge. Likewise, a cigar band adds a bulkier appearance while still remaining true to the simplicity of the look.
Not Your Weakest Link
If you thought necklaces were out of the question, not so fast. A simple pendant will add some flare to even a plain white tee. Find one with an oxidized finish to provide a worn-in
or vintage feel, the perfect twist to downplay your more formal looks. A simple chain gives you the hardware that lacks in many men’s fashion selections. Ryan Gosling and Chris Hemsworth incorporate pendants into their daily looks while also playing up their bold and dignified aesthetic.
Time Piece
Finally, the most important piece in a man’s collection: the watch. Depending on the look you are going for, a watch can express your style, serving as a statement piece, or give off the vibe that you put in a little extra effort. For a well-traveled and classic finish, lean towards a leather watch. For something more extravagant, an oversized, metalfinish watch is a piece that should be found on every man’s wrist for a special night out. Ultimately, do not be afraid to experiment with an accessory or two. Adding just one significant piece of jewelry could propel your style so much further.
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Best Subscription Boxes for:
Tori Berkowitz The holiday season is upon us and if you have been struggling to find a gift for your dad, brother, boyfriend, or maybe even a treat for yourself, then look no further. If you are too lazy to go out shopping (no judgment), want a gift that will keep on giving, or love to try new things, a subscription box is guaranteed to please. Subscription boxes get delivered directly to your home and are becoming increasingly popular across America. They combine the element of surprise with getting a present in the mail and an opportunity to try something new. You can get one sent to your house for pretty much anything, from clothing to grooming and coffee to food. The most impressive of them all is probably the one where they bring booze right to your doorstep, but we can let you decide for yourself. Check out some of the best subscription boxes that are out right now.
Bombfell
Ever wanted a personal stylist? Bombfell supplies you with one without ever needing to leave the comfort of your own home. You’ll fill out a survey to help them identify your personal style, and then once a month a box of handpicked clothes arrives at your doorstep. You have seven days to try everything on and send back whatever you do not like. It is on the pricier side with the average item costing $89, but you will only pay for the items you decide
to keep.
Birchbox
The holy grail of all subscription boxes, Birchbox is extremely popular amongst both men and women. At only $20 a month, you are going to receive four grooming items and one accessory or lifestyle item, such as socks, headphones, or a flask. Members love the variety of the samples, and the fact that you can purchase larger sizes of your favorite products through the Birchbox online shop.
Scentbird
If you love the idea of having a signature scent, but do not actually have one of your own, let Scentbird help you find it. For $14.95 you will be sent a month’s supply of a different designer fragrance. After you find a favorite you can purchase the full size bottle, or continue to switch it up with the new one they send you every month. With brands like Burberry and Cartier, you are bound to find one you like.
Sprezzabox
If you are looking for ways to make your wardrobe stand out, Sprezzabox has it covered. You will get four to five accessories or lifestyle items such as a tie, sunglasses, socks, or cuff links. Other cool gadgets include cigar cutters, wallets, or pens. It’s perfect for men who are down to try something new or love to be surprised with something they never knew they needed.
Taster’s Club
Your favorite liquor delivered right to your door? Sign me up! The Taster’s Club is best known for their whiskey subscription where you are sent a 750ml bottle every month of a “must-have” whiskey. They also include a Whiskey 101 booklet so you can talk about it like a pro. If you prefer rum, vodka, or even something bubbly,they have subscriptions for all of those and more. Go on and give it a shot. (Ha… get it?) If none of these seem like the right fit for you, there are plenty of other options out there. For example, Lootcrate is great for gamers and Armourbox is perfect for those who live at the gym. But don’t knock it before you try it because the best part about a subscription box is that you never know what you’re going to get.
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Meet Rising Star, Less than a year ago, I came across a new single, “Young Blood” on Spotify and instantly connected with the lyrics and vibed to the music. My initial reaction went along the lines of “holy shit, I’m in love.” I lurked Noah Kahan’s Spotify and was disappointed to find that "Young Blood" was the only song he had. Naturally, I took to Twitter and began begging Noah to create an album or even another new single, I needed more. One year later and Kahan is six songs deep and just finished his tour with the Strumbellas. As a fan who’s been obsessed from the get go, I feel like I’ve been on the journey to fame with him and had to reach out to see if he’d be willing to interview with Strike. As a rising artist dedicated to the grind, Noah understands the hustle and was more than willing to contribute to Strike’s success.
HANNAH KEALY: I heard your song, "Young Blood" less than a year ago and now you have quite a few. How would you describe this fastpaced experience? How do you stay grounded while you’re blowing up as an artist?
H: It seems like you’re really in touch with your feelings with the way you articulate them in your songs. Have you always been good at that or did it take practice? Did you have any reservations when you first started sharing those intimate emotions?
were already written and I was just spitting them onto the page.
NOAH KAHAN: It’s been humbling and also quite strange to watch "Young Blood" get so much attention and connect with so many people. The song was written in a very intimate moment and mindset for me, and to see that it was relatable for so many people was unexpected. It’s so gratifying to have people tell me that something I wrote in my barn has meant something to them and made them feel less alone and more alive. I try to remind myself that being honest is what has gotten me this far. Getting caught up in the distractions of success can take you away from what you set out to accomplish in the first place. I try to hang out with people that care about me as a person and not as a songwriter and I like to talk to my mom who will always make me feel like a normal kid who needs to clean my room. "Mom I get it I’ll clean it up later. No please do it now. Okay after this episode of family guy. No I said now. But why does it matter when I’m the only one who goes in there? Because I said so and because I pay the bills and don’t want my house to be messy. Okay, whatever I’ll do it. Also, is it cool if I borrow Simon’s t-shirt? It's fine with me, why don’t you ask him?"
N: Being very in touch with my feelings is a reality I’ve been sharing a home with for a long time, since I was a little kid. I have always been sensitive and allowed myself to be vulnerable, which can sometimes be scary. I was never really afraid to turn these insecurities and vulnerabilities into music and expose myself to the world because I know how many people feel similarly who are desperately looking for someone to tell them it’s okay to feel that way. Writing feelings down is an age old form of therapy and being able to relieve stress and fear while helping others is something I will never be afraid to do.
N: I’ve collaborated many times on my songs, co-writing is an incredibly useful tool. My mom will always give me an honest opinion on my music and never beats around the bush, which is why she usually gets to be the first set of ears to hear new songs.
H: Describe your song writing process. Is it different every time? What comes first, the lyrics or the music? How long does it usually take from start to finish? What triggers you to start writing something? N: It really does depend on the time and the circumstances. If there’s nothing I need to be saying that immediately comes to mind I’ll start just by messing around on the guitar or piano and building melodies and words based off of that. Sometimes, though, a song just pours out of me as if the lyrics and the melodies
H: Have you ever collaborated with anyone on your songs? Who’s your go-to if you feel like you need a second opinion on something?
H: Describe a day in the life. N: Wake up, realize how dehydrated I am, drink half a cup of water and then feel good about how hydrated I am, eat food and eventually sleep. H: What do you miss most about living in Vermont full time? Do you feel like you have a different persona onstage/online than you do at home? N: I miss so many things about living in Vermont. I miss my five dogs and two parents a lot. I miss my brothers and my sister and I miss being outside during the fall. I miss waking up in the room I grew up in and I miss how normal everything feels when I’m there. And I don’t think I do, I’m mostly myself as much as possible at all times because that’s what comes most naturally. I’d say that I’m slightly higher energy on stage than I am when doing laundry.
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Noah Kahan
H: What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever gotten? N: Be yourself. Sounds awful cliché (which sounds cliché((which sounds cliché))) but it’s so true (which sounds cliché). It’s so easy to lose sight of
what is drawing people to your music in the first place and for me it has always been my honesty and my passion to connect with people. H: In an ideal world, where will you be five years from now? N: I hope to be an established artist in the folk world and I hope to be super happy and have millions of dollars because money does buy happiness.
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Best Albums of 2017
DAMN. Kendrick Lamar
Alina Tkachova
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Kendrick Lamar has taken his music to a new level with this album. Listeners of all tastes came together to celebrate this work in all of its functionality. The album took the deep and detailed lyrics of Lamar and paired it with beats you want to blast through the nearest speaker. The versatility symbolized just how well he is able to play to the various audiences that listen and enjoy his music on the daily. This album focused on Kendrick's personal faith and early life, which made for some intimate songwriting. This album was nothing short of monumental, and has established his continued place on the top music charts. Melodrama Lorde Lorde knew exactly what she was doing when she put this album together. It's long awaited debut was greeted by eager fans who have been wanting new music since her first album in 2013. Melodrama summarized what it is like to be a young adult today. It discusses heartbreak, love, growing up and developing as a person. These
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topics were laid across music styles ranging from pop and electronic beats to classic influences of hip hop and rock. She utilized these genres to almost create a brand new one, which is why they all seemed to flow so harmoniously throughout the album. The entire work definitely differed from the rest of the albums on this list, but was the unique addition that this year of music needed.
This album was the anthem we all needed, transforming the idea of change and downfall, but also taking the time to celebrate who we are as powerful individuals. It is crazy to think that she was almost an unknown name before the release of this album, and makes us wonder why has she not put out music sooner?
to, the type that got him interested in pursuing his music career in the first place. This album will make you reflect on what life and love really mean, and have you relating to the emotions and vulnerability that Harry Styles has laid out in front of the world through his own lyrics.
More Life Drake
Culture Migos
Drake has dominated the music scene for a number of years now, and still hasn’t run out of ideas. From trying out different sound influences to changing up his style of lyrics, More Life explains why Drake has been sitting at the top of the charts for years now. Self-categorized by Drake as a playlist, the album was not created with the intention to perform as well as a proper album would. It took the pressure away from its debut, but that didn't stop it from making waves in the world of popular music. Drake is a true expert of the pop culture scene, and is supported by his ability to turn his experimentation of new sounds, into hits that stay on the charts.
After Beyonce’s Lemonade, we were looking forward to hearing how Jay-Z would try and explain himself. This album had a similar momentous debut as his wife's side of the story and also proved to be just as interesting. It was the first time that many have seen Jay-Z in almost a state of vulnerability and admission of guilt. His power and influence almost categorized him as a superhuman, one that can do no wrong. Most think Jay-Z wouldn’t own up to anything. This album showed that even the most influential people struggle with real people problems, especially when it comes to idea of marriage, love and money. This album showcased a side of Jay-Z that the world has not seen in over a decade.
It would be impossible to go through this year's music and not mention what Migos did. Their album, Culture, virtually created new culture of its own. Every single track had the influence and flow to be a single, which is why we saw the majority of the album continuously dominating the charts as single tracks. The album was highlighted by flows that have not been seen in the hip hop world in what feels like ages, gaining Migos the attention that they deserved. 2017 was their year by far, allowing the group to grow as individuals, as well as a collaborative unit with a passion for the game. Culture left us wanting more, which is why the announcement of a future Culture 2 has left the social media world on the edge of their seats for weeks. Ctrl SZA This album made you want to become best friends with SZA. The lyrics and the appeal of the musical styling put forward the narrative that she understands you. She positioned herself as someone to look up to when you are facing similar hardships in life. She dominated as a new artist, gaining the attention of other prominent stars, ranging from Kendrick Lamar to Travis Scott.
Harry Styles Harry Styles If you haven't listened to this album yet, you need to. If there was a sentence to sum up Styles' debut album, it would be: "It is not what you would expect". What many first time listeners sought to hear when they played the album, was a sound similar to the likes of his work in One Direction. Instead, they were met with sounds of rock influence and lyrics that will really make you think. Harry Styles chose not to go along with the genre that was expected of him, one that would guarantee his success as music artist. However, he directed his passion towards the music that he grew up listening
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Honorable Mention: Trouble No More Bob Dylan This album acts as a pinnacle of Bob Dylan's gospel years as a band. Taking in a multitude of tracks, ranging from those forgotten over the years, to those that have been critically acclaimed. The album chronicles an era of musical transition that many fans have either avoided or lost track of all together. While many have found their issue with this time period and genre that Bob Dylan focuses their late 70’s on, this album works to celebrate the musical accomplishments that the band has accumulated over the last five decades.
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