I s s ue No . 3 M a r+ A p r 20 1 2
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the sweet lemon magazine team
C a r ly A . H e i t l i n g e r , E d i t o r - i n - C h i e f Carly i s a q u i rky, Ty p e A w o rk aho li c w it h a p assi o n fo r all t hi ngs p re p. H e r clo s et is fi lle d w i t h co llare d shi r t s and b alle t flat s. She alw ay s has a st ash o f B and - Ai d s and mu lt i p le flavo r s o f li p b alm t u cke d i nt o her hand b ag. She w o u ld n’ t b e cau ght d e ad w it ho u t he r p e arls o n and t hi nk s yo u sho u ld live yo u r d re ams. follow her on twitter: @collegeprepster
pa r i s r o u z a t i , C r e a t i v e
D i r e c t o r
Pari s i s a char mi ng so u t he r n gi rl. She’ s a b o o k w o r m, lame jo ke co nno i sse u r, and W ho le Fo o d s- o ho li c. She has an u nri valed arg y le so ck co lle ct i o n and can’ t go a day w i t ho u t e at i ng i ce cre am. I f Vogu e and T he E co no mi st had a love chi ld , i t w o u ld b e Pari s. She ’ s alw ay s t he re t o make yo u lau gh and smi le, and b e li eve s i n sp re ad i ng love ever yw he re she go e s. f o l l o w h e r o n t w i tt e r : @ pa r i s r o u z at i
Melissa noucas, E d i t o r i a l
S t y l i s t
M e li ssa i s a p e r p e t u al ho st e ss, sho p aholic, and st at i o ne r y love r. She has a k nack for p u rchasi ng t o o many st ri p e d shi r t s and w i she s p e o ny se aso n w as ye ar- ro u nd . She go e s we ak i n t he k ne e s fo r o ld H o lly w ood glamo u r ( i f she co u ld , she ’d ho st a Great G at sby - st y le law n p ar t y eve r y d ay ) , but st i ll e njoy s t he li t t le lu xu ri e s o f ci t y living li ke t axi ri d e s and co ffe e d at e s. f o l l o w h e r o n t w i tt e r : @ m n o u c
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a l e t t er from t h e e d i t orial st yl is t As a designer, I find inspiration everywhere. Usually unexpected and ironic combinations are what catch my eye, but most of the time these things aren’t anything out of the ordinary. By simply walking down the street I’ll see lovely color palettes and patterns in strangers’ ensembles that I might not have considered before. Or maybe I’ll notice amazing vintage typefaces and textures on old storefronts that I pass daily. I’ve been known to draw inspiration from a font on my favorite coffee shop’s to-go cup and the random arrangement of colorful nail polishes lined up on my beauty store’s shelves. Inspiration is everywhere out there, and I encourage you to find it and let it find you. All that new-found inspiration you just gathered? Don’t be afraid to use it. That amazing business idea you had? Go for it. That hot pink hue you’ve been dying to paint your walls? Try it! Go ahead, pair those unexpected patterns together. Rock them with confidence and you’re sure to look chic. Put yourself out there and take a chance and see where it leads you. I promise you won’t be disappointed. I’m very excited to share Issue No. 3 with you, brimming with inspiring stories. Right inside we have a PR maven-turned blogger-turned inspired boutique owner (it’s not surprising I want everything in her shop!), some amazing finds to inspire you to throw a garden party or channel your inner femme Française, and a little insight into one of my favorite ways to gather inspiration, Pinterest. Make everything you do inspired and remember: “Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.” - Confucius
Melissa Noucas @mnouc pinterest.com/mnouc
(For now, you can take a peek and see what inspires me on my Pinterest!) 3
mar+apr 2012 ::
issue no.2 interns & contributors
hanna howard
ally lopez
lauren vanderbroek
copy editor @_HannaHoward
copy editor @allylopez
assistant editorial stylist @lauren_rae_vb
hannah lokken
Caroline Ariail
ZoĂŤ BjĂśrnson
illustrator
Editorial Intern @carolinemerritt
Editorial Intern @kzoeb
Aubrey Cox
Liza Macyzk
Vett Vandiver
Editorial Intern
Editorial Intern @legallybronzed
Editorial Intern @vettt14
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leah bell
Delia e. Castrejon
Carleton English
Lindsey Gilroy
contributing author
contributing author @deliacasmej
contributing author @CarletonEnglish
contributing author @l_gilroy
jess Keim-Malpass
Mhari O’Donnell
Kelly a. Owens
Amy Rasplicka
contributing author @jesskeimmalpass
contributing author @NEPrepster
contributing author @callmedisKO
contributing author @amyrasplicka
Don’t forget to follow our talented contributors on Twitter! Sarah Solomon contributing author @urbanJAP
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mar+apr 2012 ::
your complete guide to issue no.3
#shoparound 8. We’re Sweet On 10. Garden Party 12. Color Blocking
no. 15
14. Dainty Daisies 16. Singin’ in the Rain 19. Mark Your Calendar
#puckerup 20. 3 Trends to Try for Spring 23. Wear it to Work 34. Denna: Living off the Pages 36. How Pinteresting
no. 23
#lemonaid 38. Real Girl Vegetarian Survival Tips 40. Breaking the Cycle of Stress 42. Embracing the Unknown 45. A Clean Break
no. 38 6
no. 36
#zestyliving
no. 46
46. Big Style in Small Spaces 47. Buenos Aires: Argentina’s Global City
52. How to Benefit from your Employee Benefits Package
#highlight 56. Mixing Passion with Panache 70. A Day in the Life of a Copywriter 74. Frenchitude 80. Elle Creel 90. Sweet Lemon Prosecco + Pizza
no. 56
Cocktail Party
no. 64 no. 90 7
we’re sweet on F r o m ATLANTA t o P H ILADELP H IA ,
C H A M PAGNE t o SODA , C ARLY, PARIS & M ELISSA spill what they’re loving for spring
carly
who :: editor in chief where :: d.c. what :: j.crew top, kate spade watch, bp nordstrom oxfords, dkm monogram purse, karen walker sunnies
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paris
who :: creative director where :: atlanta what :: tory burch cuff, bobbi brown perfume, rag & bone denim, proenza schouler bag, ray ban aviators
melissa
who :: editorial stylist where :: philly what :: merona trench coat, c.wonder tumbler, asos clutch, kate spade perfume, saint james top
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Garden Party curated by melissa
clockwise: milly
dress, kate spade earrings, ban.do flower corsage, the secret garden book, kate spade bangle, snow & graham invitation opposite page, clockwise: anthropologie plate set, terrain wildflower seeds, rifle paper co. print, anthropologie chair, bhldn bottle stopper, meri meri cupcake kit
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color blocking clockwise: j.crew top,
curated by carly
tory burch cosmetic case, bcbgeneration bangle, sephora eyeshadow, gap tote opposite page, clockwise: etienne aigner bag, anthropologie apron, julia kostreva notebook, kate spade flats, madewell skirt, clare vivier clutch, pantone postcards
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Dainty Daisies curated by paris
clockwise: top-
shop cami, lauren
g. adams ring, kate spade heels, topshop shorts, j.crew necklace opposite page, clockwise: juicy couture earrings, topshop top, topshop skirt, asos ring, marc jacobs daisy perfume, topshop oxfords, cambridge satchel company satchel
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singin’ in the rain
curated by paris
clockwise: urban outfitters poncho, marc jacobs umbrella, kate spade tote, hunter wellie socks, moschino rain boots, chronicle books activity pack
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dates in mar+apr 2012
H istory M onth }
2. Dr. Seuss’ Birthday 3.14 Pi Day 17. St. Patrick’s Day 19-24. American Chocolate Week (eat up!) 21. Flower Day 22. The first movie ever shown to an audience occurs in Paris, 1895 25. Aretha Franklin’s Birthday
mark your calendar
::
noteworthy
ma r c h { W omen ’ s
a pr i l { national
card + letter writing month }
1 . April Fool’s Day 6/7. Passover 8. Easter 15. Emma Watson’s Birthday 21. Queen Elizabeth II’s Birthday 22. Earth Day 25. “Perfect Date” - Miss Congeniality 21-28. Money Smart Week
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trends to try
for spring (and how to pull them off like a pro)
Spring is upon us, and for those of us who live in areas where we have to endure winter for several months prior to the glory that is spring time, spring means finally being able to show off your outfits that had previously been hiding under layers of wool and down. Fashion this spring is going to be all about a few key trends: pastels, florals and brights. This delicately pretty look that flooded the spring / summer runway shows is about to hit the market. Now, before you run out and sew yourself a top made out of flower petals à la music ingénue Lana Del Rey on her “Billboard” magazine cover, I’ve put together some quick tips to keep you from looking like you fell asleep in a field of poppies. – kelly owens // @callmedisko // kellyaowens.com 18
color
blocking
$29.50, J.crew $60, J.crew $390, THAKOON ADDITION
$250, cambridge satchel co. colorblock with brights. Ok, ok, so this is a trend in and of itself, I know. But it’s also a cool way to get in multiple trends. If you want to wear a lot of color but don’t want to look like a crayon, color blocking is the way to go. This has been a trend for a few seasons and it doesn’t seem like it’s going away any time soon so you won’t have to worry about an expiration date just yet. 19
festive
florals
$5, forever 21
$190, J.crew
$8, rachel sparrow
$90, aldo
$70, steve madden Break it up. If you have a killer floral skirt that you want to wear with a sweet little pastel tank and fancy-schmancy new shoes, break it up with a vest or a grey thermal underneath. This way it won’t look like you Googled “Spring Fashion Trends,” threw them all on and walked out the door. It also makes it seem like you’ve had these clothes forever if you mix them in with pieces you already had. “What, this old thing?” 20
pa s t e l pa l e t t e $88, bauble bar
personalize it with your twitter handle!
$22, old navy
$189, citizens of humanity
$38, dollhouse
$30, forever 21
Add a trend in to an element of your wardrobe you are already comfortable in. Denim gal? Try any of the dozens of pastel shades that are going to be in denim shops everywhere. Maybe even take a stab at a floral pair. (I have my eyes on a Citizens of Humanity pair.) Shoe addict? Mix in an adorable pastel color blocked pair. Taking a “risk� with a piece of clothing that you are already used to rocking will definitely make you feel more comfortable in something new and a little different. 21
still
unsure?
Give accents a try. If you aren’t ready to take a plunge into a trend, dip your toe in with an accent piece. Maybe give a more neutral color dress with bold colored piping a spin, or toss on a stand out necklace. Accessories are always a great way to get in to a trend without diving off the deep end without swimming lessons. Plus mid-day if you really aren’t feeling that neon and Lucite bangle you can take it off without breaking any office etiquette rules. Document it. You know just as well as I do that there are tons and tons of “personal style” and “street style” bloggers out there. There are simply too many to count and definitely too many to name. Make a little nod to them and snap a quick pic of your potential outfit. When you are looking at an outfit you just styled in a photo instead of through a mirror it really gives you perspective of what works and what doesn’t. You’ll be able to see yourself more accurately and be able to look at it with fresh eyes. Another tip is to take the picture so your head isn’t in it, so you take the personal element out of it and just get a clear idea of the outfit. Plus you won’t be distracted by your own beauty! Be yourself and have fun. Testing out new trends is the fun part of fashion – it shouldn’t be stressful, so if you feel worried or uncertain about something don’t do it. Fashion is about expressing yourself so if it feels natural just go with your instinct and do it! The best part of fashion is sometimes just breaking all the rules! 22
by Caroline Ariail @carolinemerritt photography by Carly A. Heitlinger modeled and styled by Hannah Lawson 23
after months of job searching
and applying for countless positions, you have landed your first “real” job. After a celebratory dinner and living on cloud nine, you realize that your job entails not only new coworkers and responsibilities, but an office dress code.
Wearing suits and pumps can be an adjustment – particularly for the girl who spent her college days in a Patagonia pullover and jeans. However, office clothes do not have to be intimidating or flat-out drab. After learning your particular office’s requirements, there are plenty of ways to look and feel your professional best while incorporating your own style.
FIRST things first. Invest in good quality (hence, good fitting) basic suiting. While skirts and slacks in gray, black, navy and neutrals may seem boring, these colors will not only look the most professional, but will be versatile and ideal for adding splashes of color. 24
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Pop
of color here, there. Colorful silk blouses nicely accent black skirts. A bright blue or melon dress shirt will add a spring look and feel to your outfit (while helping you adjust to working indoors on pretty days). When the weather is chilly, consider donning bright hued tights. Other colorful options include cardigans and blazers in bold colors – just right for layering over a black dress or white dress shirt when the weather is unpredictable. 27
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make
a statement. 30
Wearing jewelry and accessorizing is by far the easiest way to make office attire stylish. Try a statement necklace or pendant necklaces layered over a blouse, add a brooch to a blazer, a scarf with a cardigan (you will be channeling your inner Jackie O.) or a a functional watch and stack of bracelets. With vintage stores and the abundance of affordable jewelry and accessories, the possibilities are endless. 31
PERFECT patterns. Who says polka dots and stripes can’t grow up? Ruffled blouses and dress shirts in patterns add a touch of fun to even the longest of days. Wearing printed pumps or flats is another way to incorporate a little pizazz in your outfit and a skip to your step.
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who says polka dots can’t grow up? 33
Denna: Living Off the Pages
“
A fantastical day in the life of Denna from The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss, as imagined by Mhari O’Donnell.
She grabs a breakfast of tea and croissants from a bakery. As she bikes to her classes she zips in between the cars vying for parking places, her red scarf fluttering behind her, her cheeks pinked from her brisk ride and the chilly morning.
”
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Throughout her law class she draws headspinning spirals mixed with hearts and stars on her notes. To those who don’t know her, she seems to be daydreaming. When she is called upon, however, she delivers a perfect answer. Seconds after the class ends she’s vanished, flitting through the throngs of students and cars. She’s promised to meet her friend, Kyle, for lunch. She hasn’t said where or when but he knows he’ll find her in the coffee shop by the art building. She’s there, fiddle in hand, talking to her fine art friends about her new project: a website that will introduce people to new music based on what they listen to. That’s Denna, always being unexpected and bridging the gaps of disparate groups. When she spots him she jumps up from the table, halfway through her sentence. She gives an apologetic smile to the art students and promises she’ll be back soon. They smile and wave goodbye, knowing they’ll see her at least once by next month. Grabbing Kyle by the arm, she drags him down the street chattering about how she’s discovered a new sushi chief he simply must try. In a nondescript apartment she and Kyle are sitting on the floor, eating sushi. The new chef she found was a history major who made sushi lunches for students in exchange for help with dishes or tutoring in a class. Denna has her fiddle out almost as soon as she’s done eating. With pleas for “Oh Danny Boy” Kyle is more or less teased into singing with her as Celtic folk songs pour from the strings. With a quick peck on the cheek from Denna, Kyle is left standing outside the apartment
where they ate. He wants to call her back, to thank her for lunch, but she never stays for long. If he tries to hold on to her, she’ll vanish like smoke. He’s seen it happen with every guy she’s allowed to come close to her. She weaves through the old houses, cutting through yards, petting dogs as she goes. She collects her bike and pedals off toward the water. There are stones just above the high tide line that make perfect benches. She often vanishes there to sing, play her fiddle and draw. Once in a while she studies there, but in the cold she’s found in the library, perched on one of the window seats overlooking the water. Today she stays by the water for a while, her journal on her lap. “Today I took Kyle to May’s to try her cooking. One day she simply must open her own restaurant. The rolls with the salmon, avocado, onion, and cream cheese were scrumptious. I’m so glad Kyle sang. I haven’t heard him sing in months. Ever since he came back from his semester abroad, he’s been changed. As if he’s wary of everyone. I know he’ll tell me what’s wrong in his own time. I just hope it’s sooner rather than later. The sky is a beautiful gray-blue, almost merging with the water. I wonder what I would find if I tried to sail to that point.” With that she signs and dates the entry and disappears into the twilight, her red scarf flying in the wind. @NEPrepster www.neprepster.blogspot.com
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by Leah Bell illustration by Hannah Lokken
In today’s world, it’s all about staying connected. Social networking is no longer just a way to reach old friends, plan events or post pictures online; social media is now a way of life. Words like “tag,” “retweet” or “unfriend” have become a part of our daily vocabulary because of this new wave of networking. Well, ladies and gentlemen, it’s time to welcome yet another phrase to our social networking repertoire: “pin it.” To “pin” something means to virtually pin an image that you like to an online bulletin board of sorts on a website called Pinterest (think “pin” and “interest” combined into one word). Think back to your middle school days when you had that picture of Leo DiCaprio stuck with a neon push pin onto a burnt sienna cork board. If I’m right so far, then most likely the rest of your board consisted of dream wedding dress tear-outs, like
Drew Barrymore’s get-up in “Ever After,” and old concert tickets displaying your love of *NSYNC and all things Timberlake. Take those same concepts and apply them to our virtual world; Pinterest is bringing back the idea of displaying your interests for all to see. Now, however, people won’t have to physically come to your room to see it—it will all be online. How convenient! Now that you’re well versed on what Pinterest actually is, you can probably see how this social networking site had the potential to become either a huge success or a giant flop. Lucky for Pinterest creators, the former has happened. According to Mediabistro’s “10,000 Words,” the site made it to Hitwise’s “Top 10 Most Trafficked Social Network Sites,” accruing a whopping 11 million visitors just in the second week of December 2011. Pinterest has even caught the eye of major leaguers like “Time,” “The 36
Wall Street Journal” and the “Today” show. game, while still feeling like they have a say in the matter. Bringing you back to junior Now, how does this affect fashion? I think high (last time, I promise!): nothing felt as the better question is: how does this not special as showing up to school and seeing affect fashion? Go back to that vision you that all of the other girls had gone to get had before of your preteen-inspired cork the same Lisa Frank stationery as you— board; how did you decide what to pin you had officially set a trend. Pinterest is onto that board? Was it based on what you no different; that same feeling happens evliked as an individual? Was it determined ery time you get a “Suzy Q has repinned by what your best friend Jenny’s board had your pin” notification. Trends, statements pinned to it? Let me give you a hint: it was and style are all timeless aspects of fashprobably both. Fashion and trends thrive ion that will always be relevant; it’s just the off of personalization, social interaction medium in which it’s shared that ebbs and and mimicry. Pinterest takes all of these flows. So stay with the times and don’t let aspects and mashes them together in one the Pinterest-train pass you by. You know fell swoop. You get to personalize your own what they say, “she who pins last, pins best.” boards right down to the title, description and category of what is on that board. Then, you get to see what your friends’ Sarah Tolzmann (and even strangers’) boards look like by for pretty patterns, going to the “Pinners You Follow” or “Evpackaging & design erything” page. Finally, you get to practice imitation as the finest form of flattery by literally “repinning” other people’s pins. Kate Spade NY Now what was on Suzy Q’s “Dresses and f o r w h i m s i c a l p h o t o s & inspiration Such” pinboard is on yours! The Staples’ easy button has got nothing on Pinterest!
A few of our favorite pinners ...
Mrs. Lilien for lovely interiors & preppy chic finds
When it comes to fashion and marketing, it’s all about staying with the times. Trends come and go, and if you’re not using the latest tools, it may pass you by. That’s where Pinterest comes in! Magazines, designers and shoppers alike are all swarming this social networking tool to stay ahead of the
The Glitter Guide for all the sparkles & fabulous fashion
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{real girl}
Vegetarian Survival Tips by Delia E. Castrejon @deliacasmej illustrations by Lauren VanderBroek
Being a vegetarian was once attached to a certain social stereotype: the granola-eating
hippie who threw red paint at fur wearers, loved salad and hugged trees. In the modern world, vegetarians come in all shapes and sizes. For those who want to stop eating meat, but are not quite ready to join PETA, here are some real girl survival tips to help you go vegetarian.
{Research} It can seem simple - just stop eating meat; but there is so much more to it than that. Will you be a vegeatarian, eliminating only meat from your diet? Will you eliminate all animal products, adhering to a more strict vegan diet? Will you consume dairy? Maybe a pescatarian, flexitarian diet will be more realistic for your lifestyle. When eliminating any one or group of foods from your diet, you have to be sure to make up for those lost nutrients-- most notably Vitamin B12, Calcium, Vitamin D and Iron. Have a plan, do some research, and know what you will need to help balance and supplement your diet. 38
{Learn to cook} Cooking can be both budget friendly and useful in figuring out what you like to eat. Cooking your own food also gives you complete control over what you consume. You don’t have to become a chef, but learning how to steam veggies and prepare alternative sources of protein will come in handy. * Pro-Tip: There are many protein-rich foods out there than can help you to eat enough protein to keep your energy up. Some of the easiest to prepare are: lentils and beans, yogurt, cheese and milk, soy, and tree nuts. {Don’t get angry} At times, you’ll get questions, funny looks and scoffs for being a vegetarian. Don’t get upset, people are afraid of what they don’t understand. Think of all the reasons why you are a vegetarian. Search for support online, at school or by going to vegetarian restaurants. {Don’t try to change others}
You may start feeling that being a vegetarian is the best way to live, but remember that not everyone feels that way. Don’t try to force your beleifs or lifestyle on others.
{Let others know} It can be uncomfortable to eat at others’ houses or go to a wedding whilst being a vegetarian; after all you don’t want to seem rude. By letting others know ahead of time, it’s generally not a problem. Give them simple suggestions like, “steamed vegetables or pasta.” {Try new things}
Vegetarian food can be made to sound dull or unappetizing. It doesn’t have to consist only of salads though; being a vegetarian can help you make some incredible culinary discoveries. Indian food is largely vegetarian based and Thai food can easily be made vegetarian friendly. Make a fun friends night out of it! *Pro-tip: Try Spanakopita, Thai Fried Tofu, Vegetable Samosas, and Almond milk.
{The truth}
There’s no one way to be a vegetarian, but there is one common consensus, it has to come naturally. It requires willpower, but you can’t force it.
{Know how to quit}
If for any reason you decide to not be a vegetarian anymore, take slow steps back into eating meat. Ease into it by eating small portions (even a bite or two at a time). Many people have been known to get sick after the first time they eat meat, because their bodies aren’t as able to digest it as readily. If you plan to or have become pregnant, talk to your doctor about potential risks, and take the appropriate steps.
*Pro-tips provided by Sandy Anaya, vegetarian for over six years and Bisera Rozic, vegan for over seven years. 39
BREAKING the
cycle
of
STRESS by Jess Keim-Malpass @jesskeimmalpass
I have found myself in a somewhat unique position this year. As
I’m busy counseling students on career and life advice in my role as Assistant Professor at a leading University, I realize how far I’ve come at managing my stress and all-consuming, type-A expectations of myself. I used to live and breathe stress. It seemed manageable in college, but it became much worse after I began graduate school and started living on my own. If I wasn’t working, I felt like I should be. I wasn’t living a balanced life, and found it very hard for me to relax and unplug. Large projects left me paralyzed by my own anxiety and unable to even begin. I was “working” all of the time, but rarely feeling very productive. Sound familiar? Here are some assignments (don’t worry, the helpful kind!) at breaking yourself from the cycle of stress and anxiety and living a more meaningfully productive life. 40
Assignment 1:
End the mental clutter and develop a plan.
It wasn’t until I read David Allen’s book Getting Things Done: that I realized how much mental clutter I was carrying around with me. My mental clutter ranged from small daily to-do’s, to medium sized projects (i.e. develop that database for work), all the way up to large projects with longer timelines (i.e. my dissertation, plan my wedding), as well as figuring out my long-term career goals and plans. Carrying around mental clutter without any defined plan on how to clear the clutter was exhausting and induced all types of stress reactions for me. Following David Allen’s method, I began purging all that I was carrying around with me and began breaking down the mental clutter in terms of the size of project or task, the number of steps needed to accomplish, and the time-frame necessary. Over time, this method worked wonders and I was able to finish large projects simultaneously because I always knew what task or step within the project needed to be addressed next. In the span of six months I found myself wrapping up big projects at work, delving into my dissertation, and planning a wedding – all of which would have left me paralyzed to begin prior to clearing the mental clutter. {David Allen, Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity}
Assignment 2: Know your body’s own schedule and plan accordingly.
I am one of those dreadfully annoying morning people. I can hop out of bed at 5:00am to hit my favorite spin class at the gym, but I also know that I will have a major afternoon slump, as well as a need to be in bed by 9:45pm. Knowing my body’s internal clock is very helpful for me when planning out my day. I rarely plan writing or heavy-thinking projects in the afternoon when I know I will have a brain fog. My creativity is strongest in the morning and in the evening after dinner, so I tap into that when I can. I am also a huge proponent of taking an afternoon siesta. I am completely guilty of taking a 20-minute power nap in my office. (Shhh…don’t tell). Cubicle-bound? Sit outside on a nice day and just unplug for a bit. You will be amazed at how rejuvenating some time away from the computer will be for your productivity and it provides an almost instantaneous decrease in stress.
Assignment 3: Be nice to your body.
It should have been no surprise to me that the time periods in my life I was most stressed were also the times when I was skipping workouts and eating unbalanced meals (cereal for dinner for the third night in a row?!). These two components of our lives are so incredibly important, but they are also the aspects that are easiest for us to dismiss when things get busy. I have found that by prioritizing eating well and exercise it naturally lends itself to a more manageable day. Time crunched? Instead of brainstorming over coffee, take that meeting outside and suggest a power-walking meeting in its place. Also, put down that muffin and start your day a protein-filled smoothie instead. Check out Kris Carr’s Crazy Sexy Diet for the best smoothie suggestions! {Kris Carr, Crazy Sexy Diet: Eat Your Veggies, Ignite Your Spark, and Live Like You Mean It!}
Assignment 4: Don’t forget the big picture.
One of the realities of being a nurse is that I care for people in their most vulnerable and stress-filled moments. It wasn’t until I became a nurse that I realized how minimal many of my routine stresses were in comparison to families going through major illnesses, loss and grief. I rarely lose sight of this and often ask myself, will this thing I’m stressing about right now even matter in six months or a year from now? Most often, the answer is no. Complete the task, close the loop, and put it behind you. 41
There are a few things in life that I have a love-hate relationship with: my thighs, Facebook creeping, DIY frozen yogurt and most of all, “the unknown.” I love-hate it! There is simply no better way to express how I feel about the degree of uncertainty present in romantic relationships.
In relationships, striking the perfect balance of known and unknown is difficult, because it’s either there, or it isn’t. If you know too much, you’re probably with someone who likes you more than you like them. Snooze. It’s too safe. Security? Awesome, and a totally different concept. Safety though? Boring. On the other hand, if you don’t know enough and are insecure and questioning your every move, you’re probably with someone you like more than they like you. That’s gotta suck too. So what happens when you’re in the sweet spot of mutual attraction and adoration? Certain uncertainty. It’s an awkward combination of the aforementioned evils…But somehow, it works. Kind of like how a negative times a negative equals a positive. How do I know this? Certain uncertainty is basically the theme 42
embracing the unknown of my relationship. My boyfriend and I have a ridiculously well-functioning thing going on, thanks much to ambiguity. This concept on its own is rather ridiculous, considering that we are extremely similar and are almost always thinking the same thing. (We’re not normal.) In spite of our identical thoughts and emotions, however, there is still a level of doubt present in our relationship…probably because both of us are excellent at being single, excellent at being in relationships and have excellent game. We like to keep things interesting. Neither of us is going to go all out (all-in?) and put all of our proverbial cards on the table, unless of course, we’re really drunk and then neither of us have a clear memory of what actually happened the next morning anyway, and everything is totally debatable. For example, would I ever tell my boyfriend that he is my end-all-be-all everything soulmate and I want to be with
him for the rest of my life and would say yes in an instant if he asked me to marry him even if he proposed in the bathroom of a club? Hell no! …Because I’m not some crazy biddy! Still, am I totally certain that he thinks that all of the above are true? Yepper. But that’s the thing. I never said it (well, except for here) so even though he thinks that I think he’s the man, he doesn’t know for sure. Boom. Uncertainty. As much as he may feel as if he “has” me, he could be wrong. So he’s always putting in work and is on top of his game. Similarly, as much as he’s into me, does boyfriend send me daily “I love you” texts, tell me that he’s already begun planning the perfect proposal, or ask me what kind of ring I want? Ah…nah. And to be honest, that’s totally the way I like it. And hate it. This uncertainty definitely fuels my personal desire to always look great around him and to be the best girlfriend I can be, but it can also make me 43
a little…crazy. I am, after all, a woman. Se- is always scary stuff. But it doesn’t have to be! If you can get beyond the fear of the riously though, only a little! unknown and accept the ultimate fact that you are not a mind reader, you can actually come to find love’s inevitable uncertainties quite pleasant. Think of things this way: Not knowing what the other person is thinking is exciting. Trying to figure out who they are is challenging. Discovering the kind of couple you make is rewarding. The doubt in our relationship? Comes from If every relationship came with a solutions the fact that we both want to save face, be guide, we would all be downright bored. the best, and have semi-addictive personalIn order for a relationship to be successful ities. Oh, and we both know what the other and healthy, the key is to allow oneself to person wants. Seriously. Like all the time. be vulnerable and to realize that your partSo when you know that this other person ner should be putting forth a similar effort. feels exactly the way you’re feeling, and the With that in mind, two of you, together, way that you are feeling is crazy intense and should embrace life’s uncertainties. Don’t over the top and ridiculous, why aren’t you fight it. totally yearning to let that out?!?… Because at the end of the day, you just aren’t in your - Liza Mazyck boyfriend or girlfriend’s head— you could @ l ega l l yb r onze d still be wrong. And believe me, as much as no one likes to be wrong, being called out on your incorrectness about your deepdark-crazy-intense feelings by the person you are madly in love with would basically shatter your dreams. I mean, right?
“ We
like to ke e p t h i ng s i n t e r e s t i ng . ”
Ultimately, the majority of our reservations about uncertainty can be summed up in a single word: vulnerability. And as much as we hate to admit it, vulnerability 44
A Clean Break
by Amy Rasplicka @amyrasplicka uncontainedcreativity.blogspot.com Do you have those friends who just drag you down, but you keep them around because you’ve known them for years, or you don’t want to ruffle any feathers? Relationships should be based on give and take, and when something in the relationship is just not working for you, it’s time to reassess. After all, if you were in an unhealthy relationship, you would (hopefully) break up with your boyfriend, right? Well, you can view friendships in a similar way. Sometimes, it’s necessary to break up with a friend. Here are some tips:
The first and one of the most difficult parts of a breakup is acknowledging to yourself that it needs to happen. The sooner you can admit this to yourself, the happier you will be in the long run. I was rooming with a friend last semester who’s an only child and had never had to share a room (or share anything for that matter). Living with her was incredibly stressful because she wanted and expected everyone to do everything her way. When I told her that I was considering moving out, she begged me to stay, so I did. I eventually moved out in the middle of the semester, but I could have saved myself a lot of stress if I had just moved out in the first place.
Once you’ve decided to break up with your friend, make sure that you don’t drag mutual friends into the drama - this will only compound your problems. It’s awkward enough trying to phase a friend out of your life, without your entire friend circle or dorm knowing about it. Instead, confide in an RA, your family, or a non-mutual friend.
Figure out how to phase this unhealthy friendship out of your life in the kindest way possible. Most girls do not want to be bluntly told, “I don’t want to be friends with you anymore”. Instead, whenever this friend wants to hang out, say, “It’s difficult for me to hang out with you because it hurts my feelings when you...”. A good friend should be willing to change her behavior in order to avoid hurting your feelings. If your friend is not willing to make changes, you should seriously cut down on the amount of time that you spend with her.
If this friend makes it clear that she wants to be a part of your life again and (this is the most important part!) that she has changed her ways, then by all means, feel free to resume the friendship. However, take things slowly, and if things get bad again, remove yourself from the situation for good! 45
BIG STYLE IN S M ALL SPAC ES BY Zoë B j örn s on & L au re n va n d e r b roe k
One of the toughest responsibilities that come with finally having your own space is decorating it. Finding fab pieces for your new digs that are also affordable can be pretty tough. Check out these tips that will be sure to have you named the best interior decorator on the block. Shop l o c a l ly. Garage sales and flea mar-
kets can be the best places to find little treasures that will fit anyone’s budget. Things like vintage trunks and luggage can become a unique focal point in a room. Look for vintage pieces that stood the test of time. Distressed leather or wood pieces are especially beautiful.
i t ’ s a l l i n t h e d e ta i l s .
Do something with all those trinkets you’ve been collecting. Incorporating unique coasters or old jars are perfect for holding keys & rings or pens and pencils.
f i n d a g re at l a m p. Whether vin-
tage or new – and let it be the focal point in your room. Lamps come in so many styles and colors and can easily be a starting point for how you decorate the rest of your space. Love chic, glam, lighting? Find a beautiful crystal lamp to set on your bedside table. More into mid-century modern? Check out your local flea market for a brightly colored industrial task lamp to sit at your desk.
s tac k i n t e re s t i ng b o o k s .
A stack of books on a coffee table can create a beautiful display. Be conscious of how you organize your books on your shelf, too. Display your beautiful decorating and fashion books, while finding hiding places for those ugly old textbooks that you have around.
g re e t i ng s f ro m . . . Steer away from the
typical choice to cover your walls in large posters of Marilyn Monroe and Friends by putting up postcards and small pieces of art. Having a lot of these spaced out on your wall gives your room a more unique, vintage feel. 46
Cox y e r b u by A
and you’ll understand why as soon as you step off the plane. Buenos Aires is an urban dream. With some 30 million inhabitants, it is a bustling city with business, tourism, fashion, government and anything else you would find in London, Paris or New York. Some of the cultural treasures Buenos Aires has shared with the world include the romantic Tango, the delicious Malbec wine of the Andes mountains, and steak tender enough to cut with a spoon. Walking through the streets of Buenos Aires you notice the cultural diversity of the country’s past. In the 1800s and 1900s European immigrants flocked to the new city and considered it a land of opportunity. Much like they immigrated to America, men set off for the new world alone hoping to build a financial foundation before sending for their families. These ships of men sent from Europe crossed the Atlantic and landed at the port of La Boca in Buenos Aires. They built their homes near the port with metal scraps from old ships and buildings, and began to work to create what Buenos Aires is today. 47
Today La Boca is a tourism hot spot. It is the exact location where the Tango was invented, originally as a dance two men danced together. Lonely for their wives and girlfriends, the men of La Boca created a sad dance to take their minds off of their distant other halves. As a working-class neighborhood, La Boca has always had a reputation of being a bit dangerous, especially at night. But if you visit in the daytime, you will get to walk through the streets passing cafe after cafe, art gallery after art gallery, and men and women dancing the tango on every corner. Because many of the early immigrants to La Boca were Italian, you will want to try some of Buenos Aires’ famous pizza; and La Boca is just the place to
do it! You will also find the enormous soccer arena of Buenos Aires’ most famous soccer club, La Boca. The brightly colored buildings remind you of something you would see in the Caribbean, but the scene could not be any more “porteno” (a word for people from Buenos Aires). Another must-see of the city is the Plaza de Mayo, the most important square of the city. Located in the heart of the city, the square displays European influence everywhere you look. Unlike most European cities, the beautiful 19th century European architecture of Buenos Aires is completely immersed in 48
modern construction. This gives Buenos Aires its unique, continuously evolving and a bit haphazard, character. In the city center you’ll find the Obelisco, which is a major symbol of Buenos Aires. You’ll also find the federal government buildings. You’ll see the Casa Rosada (which translates to “the Pink House”) which serves the same role as our White House. Nearby you’ll also find the Palacio del Congreso, which was modeled after the US Capitol.
Perhaps the most important thing to see in the city center is the Teatro Colon. It has recently undergone a complete refurbishment. Open since 1908, the luxurious seven story marvel has hosted some of the world’s best operas, ballets and concerts. Buenos Aires is a world leader in opera, so if you get to see a show you’ll be considered very lucky.
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If you’ve grown tired of sight-seeing and want to get into the world of the young and restless of Buenos Aires, you’ll want to head to the Palermos. Palermo Viejo, Palermo Soho, and Palermo Hollywood are the cities trendiest neighborhoods. This is due to their sprawling parks, great shopping and the trendy restaurants. Palermo Viejo is more residential and home to many expats. Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood offer a more urban scene. Lofts, restaurants, clubs, pubs, boutiques, franchised stores and on the weekends a fabulous fair, are all crowded into the narrow cobblestone streets that comprise the Palermos. This is the kind of place where you’ll want to find a trendy boutique hotel for your stay in Buenos Aires. If you’re more interested in a lux, history filled vacation: Recoleta is for you. This is the most common place for tourist to stay while in Buenos Aires. Recoleta has beautiful architecture, five star hotels, an amazing food scene and is home to the elite of Argentina. There you’ll find the very famous Recoleta Cemetery. You’ll want to wander through the above-ground, tomb-filled cemetery. This is where only the most important Argentines can be buried. Follow the hoards of tourists and end up at Evita’s tomb, which has become more of a shrine than a burial site. Don’t miss the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes which is also located in Recoleta. This museum has some of the world’s best exhibits, including a very impressive French Impressionist collection. Recoleta also has a great fair on the weekends where you can buy local artisan crafts, art and jewelry. 50
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If you’re staying through the weekend, you have to visit San Telmo. San Telmo has a wonderful antique fair. Here you can find anything you could ever want including clothes, hats, furniture, paintings, books and knockoffs. The streets are closed off from traffic and filled with pedestrians who are haggling their way through the market. You’ll see street performers and dine at quaint outdoor cafes. Things that are off the beaten path for tourists, but are wonderful to see include the Hippodromo, El Tigre, La Cabrera and La Bomba. The Hippodromo is a beautiful horse-racing track in the heart of the city. Free to enter, you can spend a day watching (and gambling) on South America’s most beautiful horses. El Tigre is a village about an hour north of Buenos Aires. El Tigre River is the life of the village. Houses line the river and the people use small boats in place of cars to get around. You can take a barge tour up the river to explore this quaint river village. La Cabrera is an absolute must. It is the restaurant to have the typical, and fantastic, Argentine steak dinner. Recommended by locals and tourists alike, you can’t go wrong having dinner at La Cabrera. If you like live music, sick drum beats and beer, you can’t, I repeat CAN’T, miss La Bomba. A group of shirtless drummers stand
on stage and play for a young, rowdy and usually very drunk crowd. At La Bomba you’ll see Buenos Aires’ Bohemian Hippie side, and it is absolutely, unforgettably fun.
+ Walk the Streets (and look UP!) + Drink bottles and bottles of Malbec + Eat a steak (forget being vegetarian for a week) + Learn to Tango at a Milonga (tango club for locals) + Visit the world famous museums + Check out Evita’s tomb + Haggle at the awesome weekend fairs + Try the Argentine liquor “Fernet” paired with Coke + Eat an empanada (or a dozen) + Experience a La Boca Soccer game + Get around the city by the Subte (subway)
illustration by Hannah Lokken 52
how to benefit employee benefits package from your
by Carleton English :: @carletonenglish :: www.carletonenglish.com
Even financial professionals get stressed about their financial plans. Since the last time we were together, I moved from Seattle to Philadelphia and found myself referring to my last article to make sure I was following my own advice! In the last issue we tackled building a budget that allows you to live within your means and meet some of your more aspirational goals. Now we are going to focus on decoding the language of 401(k) plans. Many new employees neglect to ask about their 401(k) plans because they are so inundated with new job responsibilities and new faces. The following provides guidelines for understanding your plan but should not be taken as a substitute for a conversation with your plan administrator.
The 401(k) Plan The 401(k) is a popular retirement plan that allows employees to set pre-tax dollars aside for their retirement savings. What that means: if a person makes $50,000 a year and designates 10% of their income
to the plan, their taxable income will now be $45,000 instead of $50,000. The funds that have accrued in the plan are not taxed until they are withdrawn. Ideally, these funds won’t be withdrawn until retirement at which point you are expected to be in a lower income tax bracket than during your working years.
Employer Matching and Contributions Employers may elect to deposit funds into their employees plan through a contribution or a match. A contribution is typically a percentage of the employees salary that is deposited regardless of whether or not an employee is making their own contributions. A match is a dollar for dollar deposit into the plan up to a certain level. These means that an employer might match up to the first 3% of an employee’s contribution. Let’s look again at an employee making $50,000 who deposits 10% of their income into a 401(k) plan. Company A makes a 5% 53
contribution into the plan which means that at the end of Year 1, the employee has $7,500 into their plan. Meanwhile Company B matches the first 3% of contributions at 100% and the next 3% at 50%. At the end of Year 1, the employee has $7,250 in their plan.
How to Invest a 401(k) Once an employee has elected to participate in a 401(k) plan, they are often presented with several investment options. Some companies may do some of the analysis for their employees and will construct portfolios for their employees to choose from. Other companies will provide their employees with a list of twenty or so mutual funds and will let their employees choose how much is allocated to each fund. Conventional wisdom about investing has been that younger people can afford to take more investment risk and older people should take less investment risk. In a portfolio this means that a 20 year old would hold about 20% of their assets in so-called conservative investments such as money markets and bonds and 80% in more volatile investments such as stocks, commodities, and real estate. Meanwhile, a person in their 50s might hold 50% or more in conservative investments and the balance in less conservative investments. However, the current economic climate has been anything but conventional so these guidelines should be discussed with a trusted pro-
fessional or family member to determine what’s right for you. Understanding which funds to choose is a career in itself, but generally speaking it is a good idea to look at previous year’s returns of each fund against their designated benchmark. The benchmark is a fancy way of saying how the investment performed against similar investments. You want to pick funds that not only performed well, but also performed similarly or better than their peers. For example, if Mutual Fund A had an 8.0% return and the benchmark returned 10.2%, while Mutual Fund B had an 8.0% return with a benchmark return of 8.1%, you might be more inclined to pick Mutual Fund B. You will also want to look at the riskiness of the funds against their performance. Risk is usually measured by standard deviation and investments with a greater standard deviation have less predictable returns. Let’s say that Mutual Fund A has a return of 8% and a standard deviation of 6% while Mutual Fund B has a return of 8% and a standard deviation of 2%. You can assume that Mutual Fund B is more likely to have returns similar to 8% than Mutual Fund A is. It is worth noting that Mutual Fund A may have returns much greater than 8% but it is also more likely that Mutual Fund A will have returns considerably lower than 8%.
Is a 401(k) Right for Me? All of the above assumes that you have 54
elected to participate in your 401(k) plan. While it is strongly recommended that you do so, I would like to address some reasons why others have chosen not to. As a result of the recent financial crises, businesses have employed many cost saving measures. One of these measures is to decrease or eliminate matching and contributions to 401(k) plans. By not participating, employees are no longer leaving “free money on the table” which was a popular phrase during better times. The lack of an employer contribution is not reason enough not to participate though, as investing in a retirement plan is an investment in your future. However, along with the financial crisis, many individuals have found themselves without a savings safety net and in considerable debt due to student loans, credit cards, etc. If this is the case, it might make sense to put off 401(k) contributions until other important financial obligations are under control. The danger of doing this though is maintaining the discipline to put that money to important financial goals instead of momentary whims. If you’re able to swing it though, I would still urge making a small contribution into your plan. For example, setting aside as little as fifty pretax dollars a month for one year and assuming a 4% annual rate of return, yields $2880.00 after 40 years of compounding interest. Early savings is very important for a successful retirement plan.
lege in 2005, I put all of my 401(k) funds in money markets because I had no idea what a 401(k) was and I was afraid of losing money. My annual return on investment was around 1%, meanwhile the stock market did very well in the mid-2000s so I did not benefit during those years. This is not to say that I made a wrong decision then, but I did not make an informed decision. Decisions about how you spend your money are personal and may differ wildly from people who appear to be in similar circumstances as yourself. That is okay...just as long as you are making financial decisions based on knowledge and comfort instead of ignorance. Best wishes to you and your financial health!
Carleton English recently returned to her native Philadelphia to take a position at a med-device start-up. She spent 5 years in Seattle where she worked as a Client Associate with a wealth management firm serving high net worth clients and leading financial literacy seminars for teens and young adults. She is an active member of the Junior League of Philadelphia and a former Treasurer of the Junior League of Seattle. When she’s not poring over spreadsheets and watching the Dow Jones, Carleton enjoys tango dancing, classic movies and finding good food. Carleton is a graduate of the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Lessons Learned Washington University. Feel free to ask When I started my first job out of col- her any financial questions! 55
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mixing
passion with by Lindsey Gilroy :: @l_gilroy photography by Carly A. Heitlinger
Blogger Mackenzie Horan, author of Design Darling, recently quit her day job after graduation in order to pursue her dream career as an entrepreneur. For many, the bold move would be a risky venture, but this fearless redhead shares her story and proves that with the right amount of determination—combined with unceasing gusto—you can pave your own path to success.
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How and when did the concept of Design Darling {The Boutique} begin? I spent the first five months after graduation interning for a magazine in San Francisco and doing social media for a PR firm in New York. I knew that I wanted my third move to be something more permanent and building a business in tandem with my blog felt like a natural progression. I’ve always wanted to be my own boss and open my own store—I just had no idea it would happen so early on in life! Quitting your first career out of college is a bold move. What was the turning point – if any – that helped determine that this was the right choice? Steve Jobs recites an anecdote in his famous commencement address at Stanford about his 17-year-old self, explaining that if you live each day like it’s your last, one day you’ll almost certainly be correct. He said that every day for the past 33 years he looked in the mirror and asked himself, “If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?” When the answer is “no” too many days in a row, he knew it was time to make a change. It’s easy to get 58
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“I’ve always wanted to be my own boss and open my own store – I just had no idea it would happen so early on in life!” 60
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“…lack of passion is fatal and there is always time to start on a new path.”
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stuck in a rut and feel like you have no way out, but life’s too short to do anything that makes you truly unhappy. Anything is possible with determination and hard work! What previous internships, classes, careers and experience helped prepare you to start your own business? I interned for Ralph Lauren and Jonathan Adler, two businesses in my fields of interest whose aesthetic and staying power I truly admire. But blogging has been by far my most relevant experience. You mentioned finding inspiration in female entrepreneurs. Are there any women that that have been particularly iconic? I admire many of the friends I’ve made through blogging: Alexandra Berlin, an interior designer in Chicago who just recently decided to launch her own firm; Kelley Lilien, a blogger in San Diego who has built a truly enviable personal brand; and Shannon Darrough, a writer in North Carolina who’s running her own social media business. Becoming an entrepreneur
is quite the feat. What has been your inspiration, and who have been your cheerleaders, throughout this process? My mom left a 23-year career in the fashion industry to go back to school and become a nurse. I’ve grown up with her example that lack of passion is fatal and there is always time to start on a new path. My parents couldn’t have been more supportive of me embarking on this adventure, and for that I’m eternally grateful. The support from the blogging community has been equally encouraging. I swear I do a happy dance every time someone signs up for my mailing list! Your boutique opens in March (we can’t wait!). What can we expect to see? The product offering will be small at first to gauge which products pique my customers’ interest. Buying with my readers in mind has been an absolute blast! Some of my favorite products are the costume jewelry, lacquer trays, and throw pillows—three essentials for any 20-something! What has surprised you the most about launching 64
“Anything is possible with determination and hard work!� 65
your own business? That I actually look forward to waking up and working! I could definitely do a better job unplugging on nights and weekends, but it’s a great feeling to know that I no longer dread Mondays. It sounds like the manic Mondays are behind you for good! Have you ever secondguessedyour decision? I haven’t. I’m so much happier now than I was even five months ago. In fact, the only doubt I have is why I didn’t do it sooner! Do you have any advice to offer individuals interested in starting their own career? Reach out to potential mentors, even through email or social media. Connect with a SCORE (www.score.org) advisor in your area - they are a great consulting resource for entrepreneurs and small businesses. Read lots of books. It’s always good to surround yourself with people who know more than you do! You are one busy lady, Mackenzie! We have to know: how do you juggle your personal life, blog, and career, all without missing a beat? I am obsessive about my iCal and I make a ton of lists! I have to-do lists, a 101 in 1001 list, a bucket list… There’s no better way to keep your eye on the 66
prize and progress toward your goals each and every day! Design Darling {The Boutique} sounds idyllic. What future plans do you have to continue the success of your company? I hope to continue to develop Design Darling as a lifestyle brand, whether that means designing my own product, or branching into decorating and styling. The path will unfold as I go and I have a feeling there are lots of adventures ahead! 67
Every woman should own a navy blazer, a pearl necklace, and faux diamond studs. Dream closet Blair Eadie’s of the blog Atlantic-Pacific. She definitely inspires me to venture outside my comfort zone and experiment with color and pattern. Endlessly inspired by Other bloggers! It’s fascinating to watch young women like myself find their footing and channel their influence to create their dream job. There is so much creativity and determination out there, it’s hard not to be inspired! Ideal career Being an entrepreneur means so many things that I really wouldn’t have it any other way. There are a lot of things I can see myself doing, but always as my own boss! I really feel that by quitting my job and launching my own business, I’ve taken ownership of my life. Favorite inspirational quote “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking, and don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.” – Steve Jobs FOLLOW HER ON TWITTER: @mackenziehoran PERUSE HER BLOG: mackenziehoran.com SHOP HER BOUTIQUE: designdarling.com 68
Michael Kors Tortoise Bangle, $95 Design Darling Lacquer Tray, $24
Max & Chloe Monogram Earrings, $225
Tory Burch Espadrilles, $195
Philippe Starck Style Ghost Chair, $175 Tory Burch Sandals, $195
Kenneth Jay Lane Ring, $66 69
A Day in the Life of a Copywriter
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7:30 – I am rudely woken by the belltower alarm on my iPhone. I pretend that it’s the clanging of Notre Dame and that I’m really in Paris.
7:45 – Continue contemplating the act of getting up and weighing the option of be-
ing immobile until noon. Then I remember my daily routine when I was unemployed (daydrink and sit on Tumblr/ ) and lurch out of bed.
MarthaStewart.com
go through every recipe on
8:15 – Run out of my Wall Street apartment while clutching my monogrammed
L.L. Bean lunch bag like an inept child trying to catch the school bus. I join the
steady stream of analysts and bankers dressed in all black heading uptown. Of course I stick out like a sore thumb with my . People stare because they wish they could be as cool as me.
pom poms
Kate Spade ski hat, complete with
8:30 – Get off the subway at 14th Street, and start to walk through the meatpacking district. It looks wildly different in the morning when you’re sober.
8:50 – Finally arrive at the office, a beautiful building that is in the middle of goddamn nowhere.
8:55 – Bypass security and get in line for an elevator with the rest of the tired
schmucks. The building houses outlying offices for luxury fashion and lifestyle brands, so there are always models in the elevator that make me happy I just walked 20 minutes and haven’t eaten breakfast yet.
9:00 – Throw my purse in the general direction of my desk, and go make myself coffee that tastes faintly of cancer.
They really need to get a Keurig.
9:15– By this point I have checked my email, eaten an orange, greeted the rest of the
people around me, written witty replies to facebook posts, begun to edit yesterdays work and stared blankly out the window wondering if they are ever going to model a Disney princess after me. 71
9:30 – Head to the conference room with the rest of the brand team. Marketing goes
over the creative and shooting schedule for the next season, and I’m told when I need to go see the fit models.
Judging clothes on people that are paid not to react to my comments? Hell yeah.
10:00 – Head back to my desk and begin to pull racks and overflowing buckets of
clothes. I have a penchant for working under brands I can’t afford, and I die a little inside while writing about dresses that won’t find a home in my closet unless I start moonlighting as a hooker.
10:30 – Refill my water bottle and use the restroom. I probably drink two gallons a
day.
Sexy, right?
12:00 – Eat lunch with fellow copywriters, merchants, stylists and whoever needed
their salad ASAP. I’m usually inhaling a mix of vegetables or Special K with fruit to offset how much I drink. This bitch needs to stay a sample size.
12:30 – Head back to my desk and approve blog comments and field
Twitter responses on my personal (@sarahsolfails) and branded (@urbanJAP)
handles before I get back to writing. Remember kids, through the power of sheer narcissism and the Internet you too can become your own brand.
3:00 – Incessantly refresh my email as if to magically make a client respond that
they’re sending my freelance check. Vow that if I ever have children they’re not allowed to go into the arts. Besides, we’ll be too busy jetsetting between vacation homes to even contemplate work. “In case I’m too tired to get out of the jacuzzi and need a refresh, dear.”
Mommy?”
“Why do I have to take this mixology class
4:00 – Switch over from writing to editing and respond to friends emails regarding
the free open bar we’re going to that night. Sometimes they fall under the guise of “networking events” and sometimes there’s art or music attached to them. Either way my liver is soaking up culture. 72
5:00 – Pack up the clothes, say my goodbyes and peace out. I am a wildly busy and important person with public transportation to catch.
5:45 – Do the Jackie O. wave at the doormen, get my mail, and jump in the elevator with all the purse puppies coming back from their afternoon walk.
8:30 – At this point I have changed outfits, packed lunch for tomorrow, eaten a veggie
burger (no bun with a fried egg on top) written a blog post or quickly hit the gym and am now ready to strut out into the NYC night. (Without the ski hat this time.)
9:00 – Drink, mingle, make Gossip Girl references and bitchy
sartorial comments with friends. Realize that the man talking to me is in his mid-forties and positively thrilled that I just graduated from college. Excuse myself to the restroom and escape.
11:00 – Get on a train home because I’m 22 going on 75 and exhausted. 11:30 – Crawl into bed after showering and applying Noxzema and Pond’s. (See above age 75 remark.) Assemble a preptastic outfit for the next day, drink hot water with lemon and go online or read until I feel myself fading.
1:30 – Finally am able to fall asleep. Dream of New England or of my
delusions of grandeur coming to fruition until I am awakened by the damn belltower to do it all over again.
follow sarah on twitter @urbanJAP take a peek at her blog www.sarah-sol.com
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Frenchitude A little guide to embracing your inner femme francaise
I can hear it in my ear singing softly... “hold me close and hold me fast, the magic spell you cast, this is la vie en rose.” Now this vie en rose has captured our lives more than you know. France is the birthplace of Victor Hugo, Marie Antoinette, Edith Piaf, Coco Chanel, and Napoleon Bonaparte. It’s home to all the deliciousness...petit fours, macarons, foie gras, fromage, and don’t forget the champagne! So, here’s a little Sweet Lemon guide on how to be effortlessly chic and have that certain Parisian “je ne sais quoi.” Santé!
La Mode Paris is the birthplace of all things haute couture, and centerpiece to the world’s most magnificent fashion
houses...Chanel, Chloé, Dior, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent...I could go on for days. Let’s take a trip back to the reign of Louis XIV, when the royals & the church controlled the state of France. Louis XIV was the originator of those curly grandiose wigs, for he was simply going bald, and since he was the king, his courtiers followed his fashion. These wigs stayed in style for over a century! More notably, we have Madame Marie Antoinette, the dauphine who realized long, heavy dresses with stiff corsets and curls were not for her. She was our first fashion rebel, as she stepped into the robe of the queen of France. 74
W h a t
s h o u l d
I
w e a r ?
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Que dois-je lire, regarder et d’Êcouter? What
should
I
read,
watch
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and
listen
to?
She called for Rose Bertin (a leading
tion in simplicity (and some stripes &
Parisian couture hat and dress maker),
unconscious layering, here or there).
to design her ankle-baring dresses,
Steer far away from flashy bling-bling,
with bodices that enhanced her bo-
and hang on to your little black dress.
som, and topped if of with a pouf.
Go to your local vintage shop and find
What is a pouf, you ask? Well, it’s that
a pair of antique earrings, and pair it
lovely mountain of powdered hair,
with a man’s watch. Of course every-
three-feet tall, decked with plumes,
one would love to be dazzled la tête
veils, ornaments, flowers, lace, and
aux pieds in Dior, but try places like
other trinkets related to current events
Isabel Marant, Adelline Jewelry, Nes-
and sensual innuendos. From Marie
sim Attal for those Saint-Tropez open
Antoinette we learn the essence of
toe sandals, and Upla for the perfect
French style – attitude. She teaches us
satchel. Don’t go on any dates without
to love our bodies, to be daring, and
smelling like Chanel No. 5, and please,
fun! Voilà!
raise your hand if you dream of a La Mer bath. And underneath your tres
Having style is an attitude, so embrace
tres chicness...let them wear lace.
yourself and let your inner French girl
P.S. You don’t need a cigarette to be
shine. With the help of Carine Roitfeld chic. As Garance Doré perfectly says, and Garance Doré, you can move the
the secret to that French “je ne sais
Storming of the Bastille to your closet
quoi” is: “The nonchalant air and the
and revolutionize your style! Mix it up,
smoky eye, the perfect alternative to
pair a sequined sweater with a tailored
the cigarette.”
pencil skirt. Wear a blazer with Converse. Tweed this, tweed that. Ballet
Le champagne avec les macarons
flats are always a necessity, and make sure you’ve got a simple navy sweater
A part of embracing your body lays
somewhere in your closet. Parisian
in the hands of eating! La vie est trop
style is all about finding sophistica-
courte pour boire du mauvais vin. 77
Que dois-je manger? W h a t
s h o u l d
78
I
e a t ?
The term champagne comes from the wine exclusively made in the Champagne region of France. Throughout history, it’s been the drink of the royals, and throughout Europe, noblemen and royal families became fascinated with this unique sparkling wine. Next, nous allons faire un voyage à Ladurée...a luxury French tearoom and pastry shop. Ladurée is the inventor of the double-decker macaron, and about fifteen thousand of them are sold everyday (Let them eat cake? Nope, let them eat macarons!) Macarons are meringue-based “melt-in-your-mouth” sweets made with egg whites, sugar, and almonds. Flavored buttercreams or jam fillings are sandwiched between. So, throw a little soirée..with wine, fromage, and ratatouille, and don’t forget the champagne and macarons! Play a little Edith Piaf, and dance me to the end of love! Remember, Mangez E at
bien,
w e l l ,
riez
l au gh
souvent, often,
aimez
lo ve
beaucoup.
abund antly.
– PARIS ROUZATI www.destinedforparis.com illustrations by LAUREN VANDERBROEK
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Elle Creel G e o r g i a Te c h s t u d e n t s k n o w a c o u p l e of things about 22 year o l d SGA P r e s i d e n t . Her hair is red. S h e ’ s p e t i t e . S h e ’s a 4 t h y e a r. B u t v e r y f e w know that this same woman t o o k a y e a r off of school between high school graduation and s t a r t i n g c o l l e g e. R i g h t after graduating from her high school in Atlanta, Georgia, Elle participated in an exchange program where she traveled to England for a year – not for credits, just for the culture. Meet the modern college woman, Elliotte (Elle) Creel.
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b y Ve t t Va n d i v e r @ v e t t t 1 4 photography by Edwin Collier s t y l i n g b y Pa r i s R o u z a t i 81
How would your best friends describe you in three words? Determined, excitable, and quirky. What is your idea of a “Modern College Woman”? Today’s college women, especially at Georgia Tech, are juggling 500 things at a time. They want to do it all, believe they can do it all, and ultimately do it all. This year I’ve had the feeling that I don’t want anything in my life to compromise my college experience. I want to get a good education, but also stay close to my family and friends. I’m not willing to make sacrifices, and I think that is common nationwide. What is the best part about being Georgia Tech’s Student Body President? I’ve been involved with SGA for a while, and I’m still so impressed and motivated by the other people in this organization. It’s great to lead people who are so focused, determined, and invested in getting results for our student body. What was something you were worried about when accepting your position? I thought I hated public speaking. Before, I wouldn’t voluntarily speak in front of people. But, after the first few times I had to speak in front of large crowds, it became fun! It’s something I really enjoy now. Talkabout some challenges that come along with having your position. Time management is a big challenge, but I have gotten better at it. I now know that I can’t realistically get everything done in one day. I have to consider what is most important, especially with balancing school, finding a job, and other things in life. What’s something about having your position that people may not know? I have a pass that allows me to park anywhere, which is really cool.
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Describe your style. I like to think that I dress professional, but with a splash of bohemian. I just know what I like. Also, I usually stick to jewel tones like pinks and purples because they work well with my hair. And, I have a slight obsession with scarves...I own over 50. 83
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“I have a slight obsession with scarves...I own over 50.”
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What are your future career goals? I’m applying to internships in management consulting, but I also may want to continue my education and earn a Master’s of Public Administration or Master’s of Business Administration. In the long term, I want to work for a non-profit or a non-governmental organization, and just do work that affects peoples’ lives. What nationwide issue would you like to solve? I am really interested in K-12 education because it is such a huge problem in our country. I was truly fortunate to have wonderful teachers who prepared me for higher education. Yet, I know the majority of children do not have these same advantages and opportunities, and that is really sad. The impact of a great education is phenomenal. Who is Elle Creel outside of being president? I’m more adventurous than people may assume, but other than that I’m pretty normal. I love my family, friends, playing golf with my dad, traveling, and just enjoying life. And sometimes I play nerdy board games like The Settlers of Catan. What is something about you that people probably don’t know? After high school graduation, I took a year off from school to participate in an exchange program in England. I didn’t do it for credit, but just to experience the culture and to do something different. I 87
made new friends, witnessed so many amazing things, and learned more than I ever thought I would. It was an incredible year. You must enjoy going abroad? I’ve traveled all over Western Europe, to Argentina, and to Brazil. I love traveling. My first time traveling alone was at age 17. I went to Dublin, Ireland during Saint Patrick’s Day by myself, and was planning to meet up with a friend. But, my friend got sick and couldn’t meet up with me. It was intimidating at first, but I met some people in a hostel and had a wonderful time! Next, I want to go backpacking in Asia! What’s your craziest travel story? I went to Egypt in 2010 for a job internship, but I did not plan my stay very well. When I got there, I didn’t have anywhere to stay, I didn’t speak any Arabic, and I had no idea where anything was. Eventually, I figured things out with the help of new friends. I was there just weeks before the crazy uprisings that took place, so that was an experience I will never forget. How have your life experiences shaped who you are? Everything that I’ve done, including traveling, has made me more independent. Ive gotten used to doing things on my own and not being afraid of speaking up. Independence is great and empowering. What woman do you look up to? I know this may sound cheesy, but honestly my mom is my role model. She’s been such an example for me, in what she has done and what she is still doing. My mom chose to have a career, but to also have her family. She was willing to multi-task and work for everything that she got. I think that’s what all women want. And I think that’s what the Modern College Woman aims for. When life gives you lemons... Take a chance!
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Zest Pitcher, Crate & Barrel Hobnail Tumbler, Anthropologie
Lemon-Raspberry Prosecco Cocktail 2 T fresh lemon juice 2 T fine sugar 1/2 T fresh lemon rind 1 cup raspberries 1 bottle prosecco First prepare the lemon syrup. Combine sugar and lemon juice in a small pan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 1 minute, stirring until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in lemon rind. Cover and refrigerate overnight then remove the rinds before mixing. Combine the lemon syrup with the bottle of Prosecco. A large pitcher will be ideal for this. Add the raspberries to the mixture and serve immediately.
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La Tartine Gourmande, Amazon.com
Dahlia Napkin Set, Anthropologie
Pizza Peel, Williams-Sonoma
Vintage Notion Apron, Anthropologie 91
until next time ... we hope you’ll keep in touch!
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