Styling by Lindsey Gerdes
table of contents
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45 Soco vintage
volume 1 issue 1 • june 2011
Candace Guadarrama
editor in chief Mariçette PiÑa creative director
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East Side Story
- EDITORS Janette NevArez culture editor
Victoria Martinez market fashion editor
Lindsey Gerdes creative editor
Amber Fee beauty editor
Chelsea Hands copy editor
Haley Rieger culinary editor
Shelbi Catlett fashion editor
Megan Williams menswear fashion editor
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Letter from the editor
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THE RECYCLED GENERATION
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Ruby Gagarin eco-fashion editor
- CONTRIBUTORS Peggy Blum academic director
Krystal Malloy photographer
Adriana medina photographer
SEAN LOYLESS lead graphic design and layout
Kristin Mcgregor photographer
KELLY IWASAKI graphic designer
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31 texas fall fashion
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The Girl In The McQueen Scarf What’s More Fun Than Riding Bikes? Saving Face What’s In My Purse? 4 Days As A Fashion Intern Lindsey’s Journal Daycation Destinations From Bigfork, MT To Austin, TX Men’s Necessities A Conversation With The Austin Eavesdropper Trailer Trove
letter from the editor Photography by Mariçette Piña
the girl in the mcQueen scarf alexander mcQueen
became known for his breathtaking collections and was praised for his innovative and edgy designs. His life ended tragically on a Thursday in February, 2010 and the larger than life icon left the world horrified and saddened. Rumors of great depression circled, following his death. It was believed he was brokenhearted by the recent loss of his mother and that he never quite got over the death of his longtime friend Isabella Blow.
me back to the department store and help me make a decision (considering her love for McQueen and slight shopping addiction, she was probably the wrong choice to play devil’s advocate). To no surprise, I was persuaded and made the most expensive retail purchase of my life, but not before being talked into buying a scarf to accent. I was excited and empowered. But after leaving the store, I felt nauseous and had chills all through my body. It set in quickly what I had just done to my bank account. After walking and talking to Lizzie, I began to understand that this was no impulse purchase. This was an investment. A fashion fossil. I have an incredibly rare item that is going to be worth an incredible amount of money as well as be a potential archive in a museum.
Both McQueen and Blow always portrayed a darker image of themselves, perhaps why the two were bonded at heart. One was never complete without the other.
Welcome to the premier issue of Thread, a publication inspired by the art, fashion and culture of Austin, Texas. Over the past 11 weeks, we have poured our hearts and souls into this magazine; not only to bring the reader the best-of-the-best, but to showcase the range of skills we have acquired through our journey at The Art Institute of Austin.
we don’t follow trends; we create them. We define our own street styles; attracting the likes of WGSN to report on street fashion at SXSW. Our food trucks are gourmet, live music is world famous, and we’ve got the best vintage shops around. This magazine embodies everything we love about fashion, mingled with everything we love about Austin.
In Austin, we thrive on the local eccentricities in all of their weirdness and glory. We live and breathe everything this city has to offer. Here,
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The loss of McQueen has left a vacancy in fashion that can never be filled, yet never be forgotten. I was lucky enough to have found and purchase one of McQueen’s handbags from his 2010 Fall/Winter collection. I remember being at Selfridge’s in London for my first time, it was overwhelming. The line to get into Louis Vuitton was out the door and onto Oxford Street. Security was everywhere, escalators going up and down, cases filled with the most elegantly handcrafted bags, just one designer after another. And then I came across Alexander. I was instantly attracted to the oversized nude leather tote and I instantly starting rationalizing how I could afford a $1,500 purse!
There are people in this life that cross your path and make you feel a certain way, lucky even. Well, for me, that is how I feel about Lee McQueen, although we never crossed paths, I have always felt this innate, unspeakable, painstaking connection to the story behind the couture and the sadness in his eyes. I suppose that is why I quickly came to grips with the financially devastating blow to my bank account his one-of-a-kind tote and scarf helped me achieve. I just wanted to have a little piece of him, a little piece of his imagination. “There is no way back for me now. I am going to take you on journeys you’ve never dreamed were possible.” -A.M.
But every stitch was perfect. In every square inch, I could see Lee’s dreams and feelings. This bag was meant for me. So after a week of deliberation, I asked my best Londoner Lizzy to escort
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- LINDSEY GERDES
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Summertime in Austin
is all about the hot humid heat and exploring various ways to cool off, and, well, that usually entails indulging in an adult beverage or two. With school out for summer and the tourist season now in full bloom, not all Austinites are psyched to quench their thirst and feed their indie needs at the ever so infamous and popular 6th Street District downtown. In fact, many avoid it all together. However, there’s another side of 6th Street that has remained under the radar east of I-35 hidden amongst residential and commercial dwellings, residing behind graffiti glazed walls and shady lighting, lies the essence of the ever-growing eastside experience.
Be forewarned, stepping onto this side of the 6th Street spectrum can be drastic indeed. It’s best to leave any partyraging antics, pretentious attitudes, or drama at home as these bars cater to the uber trendy, yet super-chill folks who epitomize the laid back Austin lifestyle with a splash of weirdness. Within any given few blocks on and around East 6th, you are sure to find a fix for every curiosity and craving your hipster or non-hipster heart desires. My favorite way to start off an eastside venture is with a refreshing cocktail. In case you haven’t heard, the retro classic cocktail hour is coming back in style with a vengeance. Break out your mother’s pearls and best SoCo vintage frock and indulge in the elegance that is “The Eastside Showroom”. Enjoy the highly eclectic atmosphere, gourmet menu comprised of local produce, and specialty “vintage” cocktails prepared by the finest mixologists Austin has to offer. With live jazz music on featured nights, this is the prime locale for your weekly ladies night or romantic rendezvous.
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io Rita has the charming appeal of a coffee house but serves as an art gallery for local artists and shabby-chic lounge as well. Grab yourself a spiked coffee or specialty infused tequila margarita, and take a seat on a funky velvet couch. You’ll swear you’re hanging out in your friend’s ultra cool living room rather than a bar. In the mood for something with a harder edge? Head over to the The Liberty where some say lies the leather-clad heart of the eastside scene. Swim through the sea of Converse wearing, tattooed boys and girls and enjoy the night sky out on the huge backyard patio. Scope out the local style, while your ears engage with your favorite punk rock tunes blaring from the jukebox.
Photography by: Adriana Medina
A couple steps down the pavement, The Brixton offers the same ambient experience, but on a smaller scale, more dive and intimate. Both are cool places. Expect to mingle, meet dudes in bands, and banter with other music junkies about all the must-see upcoming shows hitting ATX.
Hard Summer Tour August 10th, Stubb’s
Electronic anarchy best describes the Hard Summer Tour, which hits ATX in August, just in time to wrap up the summer. It features the absolute best and most innovative electronic artists around today. Headlining the tour is Digitalism, a German dance-punk duo, who combine heart-thumping rhythms with distorted bass lines to achieve their own chaotic disco. Dubstep darling, Caspa, will also bring his earth shattering beats. Along with Jack Beats and Destructo.
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hangri-La features the best upper-level patio perfect for summer ambience. After you order one of your favorite Texan beers from the grungy-glam inside bar and play a round or two of Ms. Pacman, you can rest your bones on one of the many outside picnic tables sprawled out under strings of glistening lights. It is a perfect chillin’ spot for those who want a crowd, but not so much the chaos.
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nding your eastside trek with a bang is not hard to achieve. Don’t miss last call and your chance to groove to the dope sounds of spinning wax courtesy of some of the city’s most renowned DJs , hit up The Scoot Inn or the newest eastside addition, The Eastern, for guaranteed summer sweaty dance parties! With substantial outdoor dance floors, diverse patrons, outside bars, and an overall casual feel, huge crowds can be drawn in, making for a perfectly rowdy experience. - Janette Nevarez
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Austin City Limits Music Festival
FunFunFun Fest
September 16-18, Zilker Park:
November 5-6, Auditorium Shores:
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the ever so awesome ACL music fest and it’s guaranteed to be epic! Headliners include Coldplay, the legendary Stevie Wonder, and indie favorites The Arcade Fire. The coolest thing about ACL is the extreme diversity of the line-ups. This year you can showcase you’re best dance moves to the grooves of Chromeo and Cut Copy, headbang to the growling guitar riffs of Death From Above 1979, and finish it off with some Kanye on the side. Just to name a few.
FFF Fest is one of the best independent music festivals in the country. For the last 5 years it has been held at Waterloo Park, but this year it moves to Auditorium Shores to accommodate the growing size and popularity. This fest is extremely popular among Austinites because it features mostly underground and progressive acts from all genres. Past performers include, Yelle, Danzig, Best Coast, and Crystal Castles. The 2011 line-up will be released sometime in August.
Photography by Janette Nevarez
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saving Face
Covering Up That Hangover
Ah, the morning after. For many, a night of glory is followed by things we’re not so proud of; for me, it’s splotchy skin, greasy hair, and bags under my eyes bigger than Jessica Simpson’s carry-on. Yes, despite all the promised benefits of wine, a few too many glasses will definitely make you ugly in the morning. Thankfully, there are a plethora of products out there intended to hide, chase away, and even prevent hangovers and their less-than-lovely symptoms. Here are some of my favorite products and methods for beating the ‘morning after uglies’.
Once all of this has had a chance to soak into your thirsty skin, smooth on a light foundation. I’m in love with MAC’s tinted moisturizer. It feels good, goes on smooth, doesn’t cause my sensitive skin to break out, and is easy to apply anywhere in a rush - even in the car on my way to class.
Hangover symptoms: headache, aversion to light & loud noises, nausea, dry mouth, splotchy skin, bloodshot eyes, puffiness of the face, funny hair. As much as you want to stay in bed, it won’t help. Get out, get moving, get sweating. Increased circulation helps to metabolize any alcohol left in your system, and a rosy glow is definitely better than a mottled pallor. Once the nausea has subsided, drink water - lots and lots of water. I reccomend Borba Beautyceuticals. It’s hydration with added benefits, such as 500% of your daily Vitamin E intake. There are different formulas designed to combat different skin issues. I like the Acai Berry Age Defying formula and the Pomegranate SkinClearing formulas best. Also, for those who aren’t already aware, coconut water is a liquid miracle. I have been using it to stave off hangovers for years. Drink it before you go out, when you get home, in the middle of the night, in the morning. People will ask what you’ve been doing to make your sknin so gorgeous. Once you’ve hydrated sufficiently (i.e. your urine is starting to look normal again), it’s time for some caffeine and food. Optimally, there should be a balance between the amount of grease and goodness in your nosh. My personal faves: the house latte and veggie quesadilla at Pacha (4618 Burnet Road).
Now that you’ve worked on what’s happening inside, assuming you had the time, you can start working on the outside. Of course, if you can’t put in the minutes because of some kind of time constraint, you can just put it all on the fast track. Chug some water, RUN, don’t walk, to the Starbucks around the corner, slam your coffee, inhale your bagel with peanut butter (carbs plus protein and fat equal making it through the day), and start on that face. Depending on how long you have before you’re forced to make an appearance somewhere, you can go one of two ways: wipe off the sins of the previous night with a hydrating makeup removal cloth, or wash with a gentle cleanser. I keep a classic Neutrogena bar by the sink and Pond’s towelettes in several different places. Cleansing wipes with green tea or cucumber extract score extra points.
Red eyes aren’t pretty. Try some cooling eye drops for more awake peepers. Rhoto V makes great menthol eye drops that sound scary but get the job done. Next up is a little massage for your tired, puffy face. Garnier Nutritioniste’s roller balls for eyes and face contain botanicals and caffeine to help boost circulation in skin, thereby eliminating retained water that causes puffiness. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize: Garnier’s Anti-Fatigue Eye Cream continues the fight against under-eye bags, and a nutritious day cream like that from Burt’s Bees (made with royal jelly) gives your skin even more vitamins and goodness.
Next, use a quality concealer 1-2 shades lighter than your skin to spot treat your face. Dab it onto any blemishes, broken capilaries, etc that might be glaring at you. Paint it INTO the dark lines that mark where the bags start, let it settle for a second, then pat lightly with a finger to blend. This creates the optical illusion of an even plane under your eye. L’oreal’s True Match Concealer comes in a great range of shades designed to match skin tones exactly, and the texture and paintbrush-like applicator make it super easy to use. Set it all with a very light dusting of powder, using a brush if you have it. Nothing makes a person look more dried out than too much powder. MAC Mineralize Skin Finish Natural is the lightest, most natural looking powder I’ve found. A small amount of blush in a natural shade gives the impression that you’re still alive. Again, MAC makes amazing blush that doesn’t have a heavy finish. The one hard and fast rule I have when it comes to eye makeup is this: avoid shimmer at all costs when you’re hungover. You can’t go wrong with a medium matte brown eye shadow and mascara. Even better, as long as your eyes are squinty, you might as well rock some black liner and a cat eye. Liners with a felt tip offer more precise application and don’t smudge once they’ve dried. Nearly every cosemtics company makes a felt tip liner, but ones that resemble a fine tip marker are the best. When it comes to lips, the morning after a bender is probably not the best time to try out your new bright lipstick. Stick with something demure, like a soft pink. A nice, fleshy pink looks good on everyone. Pick a shade that works for you from one of the many brands available at the drug store around the corner. Lastly, work on the hair. Brush it, apply a dry shampoo, style, and apply a little more dry shampoo. TREsemme makes a dry shampoo with clay and citrus extracts that will cost you about $8 for a generously sized can. I reccomend trying the hair back after a little light teasing as the most flattering and quick option on a morning after. Now, you’re ready to face the day! Spritz on a little light perfume or dab on some lavender oil, and head out the door. Remember next time, a few charcoal pills popped pre-party and a little restraint go a long way. - AMBER FEE
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A lot of words get thrown aorund these days
regarding identity and generation politics. “Hipster”, “scenester”, “the lost generation”... They’re just words, but depending on who utters them and at whom they’re directed, they can be badges, powerful monikers, or insulting misnomers. Why the fuss? They are just words, after all. Yet, as identity is becoming increasingly important, it is also harder to find and claim in a society that is booming and possibly past its evolutionary expiration date. Somehow, we ended up with the delightful titles of “the Y generation” and “the lost generation”. Implications of children with no direction in life and little value to society or their forbears are intended. We leave our families sooner than previous generations, there may not be a place for us among the workforce, and our purposes are unclear. Yet we are incredibly tech-savvy and demanding. It has to be the latest phone, the newest gadget, the hottest jeans, the look of tomorrow - today. Think about it - your parents were probably part of the “flower child” generation. They attended sit-ins and championed free love and equality before they got pregnant and had to face the realities that a new child would bring. Before you came around, there was leather, daisies, and paisley aplenty. Each successive generation after also had their visual signifiers, some original banner that spoke of the values of an entire population. The freedom of the 60s was a reaction to the staunchness and crinoline repression of the 50s; the 50s were a logical follow-up to the second World War, where the nuclear family was fractured, and both men and women were forced into uncustomary roles; and before that there was the Depression and the roaring 20s, conjuring up images of moth-eaten zoot suits and tattered furs that once adorned flapper shoulders. Indeed, every generation has its factions of fashion that point to some zeitgeist and are often the direct product of what preceded it. We are no exception. We have...Forever 21. Buffalo Exchange. Goodwill. Nowadays, it’s all fast fashion and and second hand fashion. Ther are still big name designers and a few indie darlings, but are there really any new ideas? There’s the saying that in fashion, everything old is new again, but that does away with the notion that things get old or go out of style, which is ultimately what drives the fashion industry. The reality is this - designers and tastemakers are constantly looking to the past for inspiration. One need only look at the nouveau hippies being sent down the runway recently to find evidence.
coined to describe fast fashion made and bought on the cheap and totally disposable. This is perhaps the biggest symptom of 21st century living. We have become accustomed to having everything NOW, and designers, nostalgics, and those who can’t go shopping every other day lament. Naturally, the opposite of the fast fashion craze is the glorification of everything vintage. Especially here in Austin, vintage is a way of life, and in certain parts of town, it’s almost like a uniform. Every cool kid worth his Chuck Taylors owns something old, be it a shirt, a bike, a couch, or the shoes on his hip little feet. Something else to consider is the momentum the green movement is gaining. No longer just confined to the old “reduce, reuse, recycle”, the green movement is a factor quickly shaping the socio-political landscape of Austin. Fashion is not exempted from the green treatment. There are green designers, green fabric production, recycled fabric and more. Even vintage stores, resale shops, and concepts like Buffalo Exchange are considered part of the green movement. Other green options around town are the City Wide Garage Sale and the swap meets that occur in various locales any given weekend, and digging through your own junk to find buried treasures from the past to rework or restyle is the new thing. Perhaps the new slogan of the green movement should be “reduce, reuse, recycle, rediscover”. Oh, and doing it yourself gets you extra street credit. Now that an entire generation is “doing it yourself”, buying vintage, scoring designer duds at thrift stores, and dropping less than twenty bucks a pop for a pair of jeans that are so right now; now that everyone you know is apparently a hipster; now that everything we see looks like something you’ve already seen - in your mother’s closet, in your closet now, in your closet when you were in middle school, high school, or college, what we do? What name do we go by? I don’t know about anyone else, but as far as feeling “lost”, who doesn’t every now and then? If I don’t know my purpose in life at 26, maybe it’s because I know there are at least fifty good years for me to think about it. This is my proposal: a new name befitting a new generation that borrows freely from others, because maybe it has all been seen before. Although, it hasn’t been seen in quite the same way. Reduce, reuse, recycle, rediscover, remix. “Generation Y”? Nope. “The lost generation”? Sounds like the title for a Pepsi commercial from hell. This is the Recycled Generation, and it’s the mirror being held up by the world. Everything seen is a reflection of something, somewhere, and maybe we should all stop and take a closer look. - Amber Fee
Another word is being thrown around today: “trashion”,
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The purse: My mom got me this lovely little leather crossbody bag by Coach. It’s the perfect size, and it’s the perfect mix of sporty and pretty - perfect for grabbing and going. The coinpurse is another gift from Mom to me from the Coach counter. If you’re going to keep it simple, remember to keep it stylish and fun, too.
what’s in my purse Ladies and certain gentlemen: allow me to both educate you and indulge your voyeuristic tendencies. Most women would rather spill their guts for you than the contents of their purses. Fortunately for you, I am not one of those women. In pouring out my purse, I hope to inspire you to lighten up...literally. I like to travel light, and I like to leave the expensive stuff at home. Of the the few items I consistently carry, only one costs more than three dollars. Follow my lead, and make life a little easier for yourself. If you’re going to have anything in your purse, you will definitely need a mirror for impromptu touchups or getting something out of your eye, and a comb is a must for quick styling or keeping hair in check. A
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small container of rich moisturizer comes in handy for smoothing flyaways, soothing itchy spots, or banishing dry skin. It can even help remove makeup mistakes. When you’re applying mascara or eyeliner/shadow/ highlight in a bar bathroom during happy hour, it can come in handy. A basic black eye pencil and a white one are the best tools to have in a pinch for lining the eyes, highlighting the cheeckbones, or blending to use as eye shadow. A cheap tube of black mascara tops it off, and a good lip plumper with moisturizing qualities negates the need for lip balm or lipstick. It really is possible to stay stylish for less, with less.
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- AMBER FEE
Event: Simon Fashon Now
I arrived at the Domain at 9am on Wednesday. The first day of interning in a vacant store, I waited until Alison Kahn, the stylist, showed up along with two other girls that attend my school, The Art Institute of Austin. Our first assignment of the day was to put labels in margie bags, clear plastic bags to hold jewelry and show times of looks time and day. Later, we went to fetch racks from Domain Phase I to Phase II. The walk in the wind left me with bruises on my feet, and we were getting blown away by the momentum of the wind and racks down hills.
After bringing back six racks, we found out we had an option of a golf cart and used it to drag the remaining racks back to the other phase. As clothing arrived, we had to hang clothes on the models rack with the margie bag and place all the accessories inside the bags. There were 12 models, so the process took a while since we were waiting for clothing to be delivered.
I was only able to intern for two hours because of class, but not one minute was wasted. More clothing from six stores arrived so we separated them as we had done the previous day. We had to steam clothes for the TV show look. The TV show was a promo for the fashion show on YNNAustin. There was a shoe disaster at Bebe, so I had to go back and ask which shoe and size was for which model since they were not labeled.
Friday was the day of the Teen Show, so the stylist
and everyone else were busy at Phase II while the interns stayed at Phase I of the Domain to work. That morning there were a few go backs for sizing from the fitting the day before. Being the day before the show, we had to finalize everything. This meant we had to go through and check to make sure everything was there multiple times. We had to tape the shoes and detag accessories and clothing if they weren’t done already and steam every look which was at least 130+ looks. In other words it took forever!
The big day of the show! When we arrived, we went through again to make sure everything was in place. Then we combined two models per rack for each show. Each pair of models was paired the same for every show. This allowed for there to be more organization and speed for the dressers backstage during the shows. We ended up having around 20 some racks by the end of it. After a show would come to an end, they would roll the rack from the stage back to the holding room where we would count each item and return it to the stores.
Interning Tips
• Arrive at least 5 minutes before scheduled time and be dressed accordingly, a basic guideline is to wear flats and minimum jewelry (preferably no jewelry); in case you’re working with clothing, you don’t want to be the girl that ruins a valuable piece. If there is a dressing guideline or requirements, follow them to a T.
• Always ask questions if you don’t fully understand something the first time, If you still don’t understand the second time, then ask someone working with you that knows what they are doing. Time management is a huge factor in fashion; you do not want to have to go back and redo your work.
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SATURDAY
Last duty of the day was the teen’s fitting with three models. This required me to run around looking for shoes that would go with the looks, as the ones chosen were not the correct size.
Where: The Domain, Austin, TX
THURSDAY
Wednesday
Interned for: Alison Kahn
Fashion Intern
FRIDAY
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days as a
• Work hard and stay consistent. Never complain, whether you’re being paid or not. • Be confident, if you have an idea or suggestion speak up! • Pay attention to detail, overlook your work, use spell check, and always stay organized. • Be excited about what it is you’re doing with every task; remember you were chosen from stacks of other applicants and there for a reason
-Victoria Martinez
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Styling by Lindsey Gerdes
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day-cation destinations
Good Times in a Rough Time
The economy is suffering a rough time that almost everyone is experiencing in some
form. Market prices are rising, gas prices seem like they are skyrocketing, and it is out of the question for the average person or family to take a vacation these days. Rest assure; because there is a solution Austinites! Here are a few places that you can take family or friends to for a day-cation, rather than a vacation. It is the Austin vacation in a day, or you could even plan further and take a long weekend with no hotel costs required. These seven destinations are all within reach and at an affordable cost to all.
Mount Bonnell, also known as Covert Park, is the highest point of elevation in Austin; located in the Lake Austin portion of the Colorado River. It is a popular destination that attracts locals and tourists for the best view of the city, picnics, weddings, hiking, and photography. The mount allows viewing of Austin, Lake Austin, and the surrounding hills. Let’s not forget the infamous steps. There are 106 steps that must be climbed in the center to reach the top. Mount Bonnell is free to visit.
Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve, is located just half a mile from Mount Bonnell. This park features two acres of colorful cottage gardens, palm trees, brilliant peacocks, water lilies, and vibrant plant-life all blending in harmony along with 21 acres of nature preserve, walking trails, and wildlife habitat. It is great for a family visit or a potential date. Entrance to Mayfield Park is free, and special events can be arranged for a low cost.
Lady Bird Lake is located in the center of downtown Austin. This beautiful lake along the Colorado River involves two dams that mark the upstream and downstream ends of the lake. The lake involves a running and hiking trail that extends approximately seven miles. There is a swimming pool alongside the lake, bridge crossings, and activities that include: biking, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, boating, running, and walking. There are plain fields available for kite flying and pet friendly fun. Marvelous views of the Austin skyline can be seen. Canoeing and kayaking are low cost for families and budget friendly. Classes are offered for all events. Zilker Botanical Gardens are located in the Barton Springs area of Austin just south of Lady Bird Lake. These beautiful gardens spread for thirty acres and are often known as “the jewel at the heart of Austin”. The botanical gardens house many themed gardens such as a rose garden, the Japanese Garden, the Prehistoric Garden and much more. Entrance to the garden, tours, and events are free. Average parking fee is $3.
Photography by Maricette Piña
Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum is a natural setting that houses the work of 20th century American Artist Charles Umlauf, as well as other contemporary sculptors. Sculptures in stone, precious metals, bronze, and more are all a part of this spiritual experience in Austin where people of all ages come to enjoy art, nature, and fun. Entrance is usually $1, or by donation only in order to keep the location running. What a beautiful way to spend part of a daycation!
The Capitol Building Whether a native Texan or not, the capitol building located on Congress Avenue is definitely a must see that includes gardens, wonderful architecture, paintings of each governor of Texas. since the Republic of Texas, history, government and more. It is free, and you can have the amazing Texas Rangers give you the tour. Experience the history, or sit in on the House and Senate meetings as they discuss issues and see how they conduct business if you like. Schlitterbahn Water Park. Did you say WATER? YES! That’s right, Austin. Cedar Park, just six miles north of Austin, will be opening a branch of Schlitterbahn Water Park. The best water park in Texas located in New Braunfels just south of Austin has expanded their horizons. Austinites need a cool down on those HOT, SUMMER days, and this park is set to open in Cedar Park by 2012. So after all the events and day-cation F-U-N, Schlitterbahn will be another way to experience Austin. While awaiting this opening keep in mind that New Braunfels is just minutes south of Austin.
So Austinites, remember! Most of these day-cation spots are free or extremely budget friendly. You can pack a picnic, take a hike, soak up some sun, swim, take tours, view historical sites and museums of art and history, or just relax. There are many marvelous experiences right here in Austin that won’t empty your wallet, yet keep your weekends full. Let’s “KEEP AUSTIN WEIRD” and support the local vacation spots while also vacationing on a budget. Besides, who doesn’t want to feel “at home” when going to sleep after a long vacation day?! This is Maricette reminding you to, “Day-cation Austin!” - Mariçette PiÑa
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From bigfork, mt to austin, tx:
how one country bumpkin learned the art of hipsterism
Three years ago, I left behind everything I knew--my family, my friends, and the small town of Bigfork, MT. I moved for two reasons: a boy and school. Mostly for the boy. The boy is history. The good news? I’m still in school. My 2,000-mile move to Austin was a whim. The university I was attending asked me to select a major. As a junior, I was still in the “University Studies” program. I ended up selecting a course of study that the university did not offer: Fashion & Retail Management. The original plan was to move to Seattle. But after learning The Art Institutes was opening a branch in Austin, where I had lived as a child, my plans changed. A friend from high-school, my future ex-boyfriend, was living in Austin at the time. After a reassuring phone call and securing a place to stay, I quit my job in Glacier National Park. I immediately packed up my Chevy Aveo with all of my belongings. Three days later, I found myself at the 21st Street Co-Op in Austin, with only a trunk full of clothes and a coffee table I had constructed when I was thirteen.
Then the boy and I broke up. This could be the part in the story where I go all Felicity and chop off my curly locks, circa the late 1990s television show, but that’s not my style.
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men’s necessities
or most guys when it comes to what they wear, they tend to just go with the flow. What they do not realize is that, with a few accessories they are able to make there outfit a little more unique.
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Instead, I immersed myself into all that is Austin. I went to local events, shopped at second-hand boutiques and farmers markets, and began writing a blog about Austin fashion. I became a full-fledge vegetarian, met Austinites and other gypsies, and adopted a dog I named Biscuit. I have traveled from eastern Canada to southern California, made The President’s List at school, and worked two jobs. I danced in the rain at Austin City Limits Festival, volunteered during South By Southwest, and returned to the 21st Street Co-Op on Sundays to cook for Food Not Bombs. I’ve moved three times, which is also the exact number of times I’ve fallen in and out of love with the same person.
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In the past three years, it’s easy to say I have changed from the 19-year-old that showed up with all of her belongings in the back of her car.
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I’ve gone back to Montana twice. But it’s no longer “home”. There’s truth in the old adage “home is where the heart is.” As of now, mine is, literally, deep in the heart of Texas. - CHELSEA HANDS
Now, I’ve moved around a few times, but never had I experienced something like “the coop.” The 21st Street CoOp is a (clothing-optional) student housing cooperative deep in the heart of Austin, several blocks west from The Drag. Constantly referred to as a treehouse, it reminded me much of a maze. I spent the carefree summer earning my keep at the co-op by cleaning Suite 4B, the smoking suite.
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This cardigan is so light that you can wear it to keep you warm or for just an extra something to every outfit. It is even better with the sleeves rolled up. This is good for a movie night with your date, or even something comfortable to wear at school.
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No matter what season, a scarf is must have. This scarf is a light linen material with tassel details. The reason I chose this is because it has a nice rich green color to
it and the tassels. The tassels add a little more to any outfit and they can give your outfit some flavor!
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A satchel is an essential for every man, because no matter what, you need a way to carry our items. This bag is great because you can either use it for your long hike to class or going out. The olive green works well, because it is a new neutral that is good with almost any type of outfit or color.
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Most guys own a fedora or at least know what one is, but for the summer and a Texas fall, a straw fedora is what you need. This is good for local outdoor events like Austin City Limits. This fedora is all neutrals, making it able to be worn all the time.
- Megan Williams
*All of these items are under $30 and can be purchased at Forever 21.
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That and NICENESS. If a band, restaurant, whatever is not only talented, but genuinely comprised of lovely people, I try to support them. Nice is a very big deal to me. You are a passionate and open writer, from your first househunting experience to an intervention you had with a close friend. What leads you to write about such personal experiences? What is something that you would definitely consider a taboo subject to write about? Nakedness + sex are pretty much the only off-limits topics for me. I admire sex bloggers a lot, but that’s a topic I keep just between Ross and I. Anyway, as for the other personal experiences, I think I just have a craving to tell good stories. I’m not a very good story-teller in person. But I’m good in writing. Shaping my experiences into narratives helps me make sense of things (both when they are happy things, and also when they are very, very hard things). Also, you know those people who just LIVE to cook? They love shopping, picking out all their special ingredients, marinating chicken breasts for hours, etc? I am so not like that with cooking. But I can relate to the passion. Picking out words, shaping sentences and dialog, the satisfaction that comes with a really punchy story conclusion – that all just makes me feel like a badass when I can pull it off.
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ou started blogging after returning from grad school in Davis, California (Yay for former Davisites!). What drew you to blogging? I’ve always been addicted to text. I majored in English and went to grad school for English Literature. I wrote for my high school and college newspapers, interned at a Sacramento magazine. But the ability to publish my own writing – whenever I wanted – was the siren song of the blogosphere. I came of age in a time (not that long ago, actually) when seeing your writing “in print” meant submitting to a magazine or literary journal, and hoping against hope that they’d publish it. But blogging lets you decide what’s good enough for the public to see. And for a long time, mine wasn’t. (Even though I repeatedly hit the “publish” button anyway). From my understanding, “The Austin Eavesdropper” is not your first blog. Why did your other forays into blogging fizzle and why did “The Austin Eavesdropper” succeed? Austin Eavesdropper is my third attempt at blogging: The first one was a Livejournal (a Livejournal!) about my daily activities, such as, what flavor of Frappuccino I had that day. It was really boring. I think Austin Eavesdropper stuck because at first it was sort of a local resource – like,
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what’s going on in Austin – then it became more of a girlabout-town chronicle, and now, it’s 75% introspective and personal. That was a big surprise to me: That people had any interest in, say, my cat. Or my alcoholic friend. I’m still trying to understand the appeal. But I think the real reason this one has been more successful is because I’m a better writer and storyteller than I was when I first started. You write about many different topics, from food and fashion to music and the various on-goings in Austin. Where or from whom do you draw inspiration for story ideas? Sometimes pitches. Bands / designers / artists / restaurants (or their publicists) will write me and ask if I’d be interested in trying out their music / clothes / show / food. From time to time their creations really resonate with me. But mostly, I think that listening to KUT, reading the Chronicle, going to coffee shops and checking out fliers, reading other blogs (both local and non), my friends – all of these funnel down blog post ideas to me. I’m so lucky to have these wildly creative, smart people as friends, and to be married to a musician. They all help me tune my awareness to the crackling sparks of weirdness in Austin – weirdness that, as all Austinites know, is beautiful too!
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You work for the local boutique publicity firm PR by the Book. How has your work as a publicist influenced your work as a blogger and vice versa? Being social media savvy in any realm – whether you’ve got a ton of followers on Twitter, you post on Facebook all day long, you blog – always helps in publicity. I train my authors how to use these tools, and further their message by building up their own social media networks. But being surrounded by books helps my writing, too. I read diverse items for work – cookbooks, memoirs, sci-fi, children’s books. I’ve learned that there is a market for nearly everything, which encourages me as I think about taking on more serious writing projects in the future. Also, being a book publicist taught me how to publicize myself! I mean, I don’t really send press releases out about the blog, but I’ve got good relationships with local media, and they know they can call on me for quotes and media appearances. Part of being a blogger is “selling” the blog, and although I don’t do that enough – I don’t even have a Facebook page for it, and I really need to make one! – I’ve learned how to offer myself as a helpful source without being pushy.
There is also the question of: What are you an expert on? I teach all of my authors early on how to answer that question. I am (sort of) an expert on Austin, and (sort of) an expert on transitioning from kid to grown-up. You have had amazing opportunities, including interviewing musicians for SXSW with Express Rocks. How did these opportunities come about/was your blog a part of these opportunities? Yes, my blog was indeed a part of these opportunities. Often, a friend-of-a-friend will know someone who’s looking for on-air or writing talent, and they’ll send them to my blog. This happened with both SXSW (a publicist friend at Giant Noise recommended me to Express when they were looking for a TV host) and SheKnows.com. A friend of mine at Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau recommended me to them when they asked about local Austin writers. So it was partly my blog that landed this stuff for me, but honestly just having some really amazing buddies out there!! Do you have any tips for those who are currently blogging and/or aspiring bloggers? Figure out what you are in it for – writing, photography, vlogging, displaying your art, etc. Also, keeping a balance of consuming / producing art. I am a better blogger (and writer) because I am an obsessive reader. If you are a photographer or artist, study those who inspire you; if you are a vlogger, watch camera personalities who delight you. I think 60% of being successful, creatively, is seeking out quality examples and role models. And, lastly, how would you describe your personal style from day-to-day? Where do you like to shop in Austin? A (gay) friend described me as a little Stevie Nicks, a little Audrey Hepburn. I think that’s about accurate. My style is somewhat polished, somewhat bohemian. I ADORE vintage, and for that, go to Blue Velvet (on North Loop), Buffalo Exchange, and sometimes the vintage stores on S. Congress. New Bohemia has great bags, Feathers has killer boots. When I’m buying new, I tend to stick to Strut. But I fantasize about Anthropologie. I make an annual trip to Urban Outfitters and get a few things – skinny jeans, lockets, orange heels.
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-CHELSEA HANDS.
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by shelbi catlett Just when I tell myself fall is approaching and it’s time to move my favorite summer clothes to the back of my closet, I remember that I live in the great state of Texas. I love the unpredictability of the weather because it allows me to play with my wardrobe and mix together various trends from the summer and fall seasons. As a fashion fanatic, I enjoy stretching my imagination to come up with unique outfits that encompass both fall and summer trends. You too can do the same.
Photography by Krystal Malloy Styling by Shelby Catlett, Haley Reiger, Candace Guadarrama, Lindsey Gerdes
Make a statement with wide leg pants paired with your favorite summer accessories, such as cork wedges and a giant floppy hat.
Dare to be dramatic. Don’t be afraid to wear multiple bold pieces such as a fur vest and a floppy hat
At the photo shoot, viewers walking by loved this sheer, printed maxi skirt accessorized with a pair of army green combat boots.
This outfit is perfectly styled for a night out in Austin. Match your perfect summer top with a pair of brightly colored pants.
Photography by Haley Rieger
Franklin Barbeque
900 E 11th St Austin, TX 78702 Make sure to get here early to wait in line with the droves of barbeque aficionados that come out every day to get their pickings of the best meat in town before it’s gone. If you come around lunchtime, be prepared to wait for up to an hour to procure a culinary sensation that any Texan would drool over. If you leave without trying the melt-in-your-mouth brisket (although the friendly owners usually won’t let this happen) it will come back to haunt you. Add a healthy dousing of one of their three kinds of barbeque sauce, and thoughts of Franklin’s savory fare might keep you up at night.
Torchy’s Tacos
1311 S 1st St Austin, TX 78799 What started as a few tasty tacos out of one of Austin’s first well-known food trailers, has turned into a taco empire and Austin staple with seven locations across town. It is definitely not an understatement when I say that choosing a favorite here is the most difficult task I have ever faced on lunch break. If I must choose, I must cheat and choose three: the Dirty Sanchez, the Democrat, and the Fried Avocado. Don’t take my word for it though; the friendly staff will help you make a delicious decision suitable to your likings.
Holy Cacao
1311 S 1st St Austin, TX 78704 The name says it all; this place is heavenly. Holy Cacao serves up some of the most delectable desserts in Austin. After eating next door at Torchy’s, walk over to this cute little yellow trailer to satisfy your sweet tooth. Austinites swear by their cake balls- chunks of rich, fresh baked cake are mixed with frosting, then rolled into balls, dipped in chocolate and perched atop popsicle sticks. I recommend washing one down with rich and creamy drinkable chocolate: hot or cold. For all of you serious sweet toothers, try the cake shake- a slice of cake mixed into a milkshake with what ever flavors you’d like.
East Side King @The Grackle 1700 East 6th Street Austin, TX 78702
It is no secret that Austin is fast becoming one of the most desirable cities to live in, as seen by those all over the country. According to a recent survey, Austin has weathered the recession better than any other city in the country and leads the nation in job growth. Up to 80% of those new jobs are from local businesses, including food trailers. In January of this year, there were over 700 food trucks operating in and around Austin. According to KVUE, this number is expected to reach 1600 by October of next year. These food carts are not only putting delicious, fresh, oneof-a-kind food in our bellies, but they are also providing a means of living for entrepreneurs young and old alike. Some trailer vendors start out as dreamers that wish to one day open a restaurant of their own, while other vendors start with successful restaurants and utilize carts as a way to expand their business. Either way, from the newly opened Bits and Druthers, to the street food staple, Torchy’s Tacos and everything in between, they are all equally delicious with each one as unique as the next. With Austin being the local business friendly community that it is, it is no surprise that food trailers have taken on a cult following. They are several blogs devoted to Austin food trailers, multiple websites and directories and recently a iPhone
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app was created that allows users to find and track food trailers nationwide. There’s even a TV series in the works that follows Tiffany Harelik, fourth generation Austinite and trailer food guru, as she travels the nation visiting food trailers and finding out the stories of the owners behind them. The food trailer scene is also growing fast around the country in cities such as Portland, Los Angeles, and San Francisco to name a few. Social media, especially Twitter, has been a huge aspect in the success of most of these food trailers by helping bring customers to them. They create a community with their patrons that offers a place for them to voice their opinions and relate to the owner in a more personal way. Twitter also allows mobile trailers to state their location at any given time of the day, and they can even tweet time sensitive specials that only their followers will able to see and use. Marketing tools like these are not only valuable to the success of the trailer and its owner, but they also keep customers happy, full, and sure to return. With over 700 trailers here in the Austin area, it is impossible to see and taste them all. However, being an Austin-bred foodie that supports everything organic and local , I have indulged myself in the trailer trend and have come up with a few of my favorites. These trailers are sure to leave you coming back for more, possibly within the same day.
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The Liberty Bar
@The Liberty Bar 1618 East 6th Street Austin, TX 78702
With two locations perfectly positioned aside two of East Austin’s coolest bars, these trailers serve up late night munchies fit for a king. A PBR has never tasted so good as when it’s paired with their deliciously greasy, beet home fries. The chef, who is well known for preparing the best sushi in town at Uchi, displays his creative palette with dishes like Tongue Buns, Thai Chicken Karaage and Pork Belly with Rice. Vegetarians rejoice! You can enjoy about half of the items on their menu. I recommend the Nasu Rice (pictured left).
- HALEY RIEGER
cynthia rowley
is one of the first to hand deliver the ingenious combination of designer duds at the turn of a corner. Literally. The idea sparked from the trendy food-truck craze. Instead of handing out fried food and ice cream, this smart cookie is slinging pumps, mini dresses, and handbags. It is as intimate as fishing through your boyfriend’s closet, but a little more expensive! This feather filled pop-up even comes complete with a dressing room, so ladies, keep your ears out for that special chime. I imagine this truck will be coasting down your street soon, and you don’t want to be waiting in line. - lindsey gerdes
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Photography by Mariçette Piña
Since blackmail carries original designs; the monochromatic feel is a specialty niche in all things black.
Whether it’s a Jeffrey Campbell shoe or a vintage Gucci glam, Feather’s is the place for your hipster to high fashion threads.
Retro fab from 50s to 80s, flashback to your favorite era with men’s and women’s vintage resale.
Affordable medium to high end, retro to contemporary, even if you’re bad, you can still be a “goodie two shoes!” This one has it all! Men’s, women’s, home décor, and styling. If style is what you seek, find your prototype!
Styling by Lindsey Gerdes