UP Fall 2015 Issue

UPTOWN

REBEL

DAD BOD revolutionizing the body image conversation

BREAK THE RULES FASHION SHOULD HAVE NO LIMITS

un apologetic

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contents

Fall 2015 6

Made UP: Embrace Your Hair

12

Break the Rules

20

Man Code: Dad Bod

26

Revamp Your Denim

34

Hijabs

38

Come As You Are

54

Graphic Impact

70

We Dare You

65 34 Uptown Rebel

Before Midnight

3 | Fall 2015

staff list Editor-in-Chief Greta Hallberg

Creative Director Kayle Antony

Publisher Emma Strupp

Photo Editor Alyssa Sato David Malone

Fashion Director Haley Spindler

Copy Editor Jenny Henderson

Marketing Directors Sydney Medema Ibukun Ibraheem

Online Editor Kelly Higginson

Blog Editors Alex Cooper Blair Donovan

Event Planning Coordinators Mariah Koeltl

Street Style Photographer Jackie Hayes

4 | Fall 2015

Photographers Bryce Belyeu Rob Donato Kendall Erickson Olivia (Livvy) List Max Meals Connor Moriarty Francesca Peck Shannon Pressler Layout Designers Kayle Antony Sara Meurer Morgan Lawrence Lydia Tissandier Darby Shanaberger Julie Norehad Mikayla Zancanelli Stylists Abigail Bates Berkeley Combs John Digiacobbe Paige Flory Lauren Heil Hannah Jolly Lily Manchester Kelly Nester Emma Nook Steph O’Loughlin Alli Robben Madelyn Voigt Gloria Zhu Writers Chase Bailey Samantha Forsthoefel Abbey Gingras Angela Hatcher Haley Jena Olivia Lewis Phoebe Myers Molly Nicholas Kevin O’Hara Liz O’Loughlin Francesca Peck Soumya Trivedi Emily Williams

Bloggers Chase Bailey Vivian Drury Abbey Gingras Elizabeth Glover Angela Hatcher Phoebe Myers Althea Perley Hannah Wegman Emily Williams Marketing Team Alexandra Bogut Elizabeth Colwell Alexandria Dolbin Coley Frommeyer Claire Markely Leah McCloud Ali Mitchell Rachel Price Lena Rutherford Alexandra Standring Event Planning Alexandra Bogut Alexandria Dolbin Coley Frommeyer Sarah Gaertner Annie Hause Lauren Heil Ashley Lewis Claire Markley Leah McCloud Jenna Mrocko Jessica Pembroke Althea Perley Rachel Price Alexandra Strandring Madelyn Voigt Jessie Wolfe Faculty Advisor Annie-Laurie Blair Finance Advisor Drew Davis Founders | 2008 Lauren Kelly Kelly Phelan

editor’s letter

5 | Fall 2015

F

rom balayage to tie-dye to gray, there are so many unique variations for how people color their hair. Once a color is picked, there are numerous unique ways to style it from ringlet curls to dreadlocks to Senegalese twists. With all of these options, it’s amazing that anyone can settle on one hairstyle at a time.

“I’ve changed my hair color and style my whole life. I’ve had just about every hair length now, and every color too. I’ve gone from brown, to black, to blonde, to white, to blue, to pink, and now to purple!” Gruenhagen said. “How I view myself is always changing because I, as a person, am always growing and evolving.”

Hair tells a story, no matter what the style. A high ponytail can tell the story of a college athlete trying to balance running from practice to her next class.

Turquoise-colored locks can tell the story of an artist who likes her hair to stay fun and different from everyone else. A man-bun can tell the story of a guy who likes to stay on trend. Hair can mean something different to everyone whether it is based on his or her culture, favorite trend or busy schedule.

She also does her hair herself every time and doesn’t think she will ever settle on just one hairstyle. Hair can reflect h w you grow as an individual, and Gruenhagen intends to continue doing so. For now, she believes this shade of purple suits her the best.

For senior Taylor Avery, her hairstyle is all about convenience and versatility. She has her hair done by a girl on Miami’s campus who is from Senegal.

Right now, her hair is in Senegalese twists, which is considered a protective hairstyle because it doesn’t require heat. It begins with a braid at the root and then evolves into a twist, adding in the extensions as needed to add length to the hair.

“I don’t have to brush, straighten or comb my hair ever. All I do is wash it. It is very time-consuming because it takes from eight in the morning until three in the afternoon. But I know when I get it done, I don’t have to do much for two months,” Avery said.

“Twisting is fun and easy and different. That’s what makes it stand out. I like this style and if someone else doesn’t like it, I don’t really care.”

The ease of not having to worry about styling your hair each morning when you wake up is a relief, especially for busy college students. Avery said she also likes the option of versatility that comes with Senegalese twists.

“I can do a half up bun, or a big bun, or half up half down, or all down. My hair is not a uniform hairstyle; I could easily just straighten my hair like everyone else, “ Avery said.

Junior Samantha Gruenhagen sees her hairstyle as opportunity for expression. Right now, she has a short haircut dyed black with purple undertones, but for her this is always changing.

6 | Fall 2015

“It’s unique but doesn’t stand out immediately, it’s only until you get closer to a one on one basis does it really shine. It allows me to get by in life without turning heads, but when people meet me, they know that I’m off beat,” Gruenhagen said.

Gruenhagen believes Miami is slightly limiting when it comes to freedom of expression. With new trends emerging in hair lately, this might change very soon.

Both Avery and Gruenhagen have taken on an unapologetic outlook towards their hair.

Their hair tells a story that is unique to them, and because of that, they will not be lost in the crowd.

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“Just run right at it,” he tells me, gesturing toward the brick wall in front of us. I take a deep breath and charge toward the wall. Just before I’m about to hit it head-on, I lift my right foot to push up against the brick, reaching my arms for the top of the wall.

I don’t make it. That’s okay, they assure me. Just try again.

For Drew Jenney, Ezra Nepo and Hunter Rose, vaulting over ledges, scaling walls and free running across Central Quad is just another day at practice. Three days a week, about a dozen students meet at the Sundial to practice parkour, a unique form of movement that involves running, climbing, swinging, vaulting, jumping and rolling to move through an environment in the quickest way possible.

The members of MU Parkour bring varying skill levels to the group. Jenney, the group’s co-president, started in martial arts and has been practicing parkour for about three years. Nepo has studied parkour for a little over a year. Rose started just four weeks ago. He’s sporting a skinned knee and a scabbed eyebrow from his first “jam,” a parkour event that was held at the University of Cincinnati.

“The basics are very easy to pick up on,” Rose said.

“It’s fine tuning those and making things flow that’s the hard part. It’s a lot more mental than physical.”

Parkour’s founder, Frenchman David Belle, would agree. In the 1980s, Belle and his childhood friends formed a group called Yamakasi which means “strong man, strong spirit” in Lingala. The name parkour came from the French word for course, parcours. At around age fi teen, the group started to perfect their movements into something that became not just an exercise, but a philosophy.

According to Parkour Generations, the largest

9 | Fall 2015

professional parkour organization, parkour is meant to free people from the limitations of fear and conventional forms of movement. Parkour is a fluid activity and those who practice it, called traceurs, are not bound by a set of rules. This freedom for expression was one thing that attracted Nepo to the sport.

“I’d always kind of struggled with finding a sport that fit my needs and interests,” Nepo said. “It was nice to find something that was very free spirited and I could mold to myself.”

Different from other extreme sports like cliff jumping or slacklining, traceurs value mental and spiritual well-being as highly as physical progress.

Although seeing athletes scale walls, jump between buildings or perform gravity-defying flips has aused some people to criticize traceurs as being reckless, the practice is actually about minimizing risk. People who are unfamiliar with the sport often misunderstand its purpose.

The ultimate goal for a traceur is to become both mentally and physically prepared to face any challenge.

“I think anyone can do it if they set their mind to it,” said Jenney. “But not everybody is prepared to do a lot of things that scare them.”

At one point during their practice, Jenney took a running start and scaled the brick facade of Richard Hall. Seconds after he grabbed hold of a ledge, a woman rushed over, yelling at him to get down.

No problem, he assured her and dropped back down to the pavement. That happens sometimes. They always comply, but it never stops them from trying another day.

“People think, oh, people shouldn’t be climbing buildings,” Nepo said.

“But why shouldn’t people climb buildings?” I countered.

“Exactly.”

F

rench fries.The first potatoes we e brought to Europe from South America in the 1500s.

After a brief ban in France in 1748 due to the popular notion that potatoes caused leprosy, the humble potato has made a long journey to the worldwide delicacy it is today. The location of the exact creation of French fries is hotly debated.

Belgians believe they invented the treat, but the French beg to differ. The important thing is that they were invented and we can all enjoy them now.

From McDonalds to fancy “boutique” fries, the variations of this amazing tuber are practically endless. Around Oxford, there are plenty of places a hungry (and broke) college kid can turn to find the perfect staple snack (or a great drunken decision).

Quarter Barrel has a rotating French fry special, which includes fried shiitake mushrooms, flakes of parmesan, truffle salt and a t uffle dipping sauce The newly opened Corner Grill and Drinkery uptown boasts seven varieties of French fries.

Curious and extremely hungry, a few friends and I investigated the options. The menu included your standard fries, but also intriguing flavor “dusted” ones, like barbeque, ranch and garlic. They were each only $3, so naturally we ordered all of them. The verdict? They were essentially just fries with seasoning.

“They kinda taste like mushy barbeque chips” said freshman Dimitry Kizhikin.

Fries can be found at almost any Miami dining hall as well, but eating the same thing day in and day out gets boring. If you want to get creative and semihealthy to break up the routine, here’s a great recipe for oven baked sweet potato fries from a fantastic website, Cookie and Kate. Yes, you can make them.

INGREDIENTS

· Sweet potatoes. At least one per person.

Medium-sized sweet potatoes with smooth, fi m, evenly toned skin usually make the best sweet potato fries · Corn starch. A big sprinkle's worth (optional). · Olive oil. A couple of tablespoons or so. Enough to lightly and evenly coat the fries. · Salt, pepper and spices. Garlic is great.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into fry-shaped pieces. Try to cut them similarly so the fries will bake evenly.

2. Toss the uncooked fries into a mixing bowl, or just onto your baking sheet. Sprinkle with cornstarch (if using) and pour in a few tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and spices. Use half a teaspoon per potato. Mix/shake to distribute evenly. The corn starch should be evenly mixed in, so there are no powdery spots.

3. Pour the fries directly onto a dark, non-stick baking sheet for best results.

Arrange your fries in a single layer and don't overcrowd, otherwise they will never crisp up.

4. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip the f ies so they can cook on all sides. The easiest way to flip them is with a metal spatula.

5. Bake for 10 to 15 more minutes, or until the fries are crispy. You’ll know they’re done when the surface of the fries change from shiny orange to a more matte texture. Don't worry if the edges are a little bit brown; they will taste more caramelized than burnt.

So whether you’re eating out or staying in, bon appétit! Or maybe I shouldn’t say that, less the Belgians get offended.

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written by Phoebe Myers photography by Alyssa Sato

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styled by Madelyn Voigt photographed by Alyssa Sato Models: Monica Scicolone, Anna Senchak

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BECAUSE THEY’RE MORE LIKE GUIDELINES ANYWAY

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Overalls: Stylist Black Graphic Tank: Juniper $17.50 Shoes: Models

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White Top: Bluetique $41 (on sale) White Jeans: Bluteique $88 15 | Fall 2015

Sequin Top: Stylist’s Own Grey Skirt: Bluetique $17.00 Heels: Model’s Own Black/White Pattern Skirt: Juniper $36.50 Black Graphic Top: (reversed) Juniper $17.50 Flannel: Juniper $45 Shoes: Model’s Own

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Powerful, Pretty and Professional YOUR GUIDE TO ROCKING

LEATHER written by Francesca Peck

styled by Kelly Nester photographed by Francesca Peck Model: Nicole Bennett Tan Skirt: Juniper, $34.50 Bag: Juniper

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T

ake a mental look through your wardrobe— what single item makes you feel unstoppable?

Confident? Re dy to run the world? What do you slip on to command attention and show everyone who’s the boss? It sure isn’t your cotton T-shirt dress and definite y can’t be those old Converse sneakers you refuse to throw out. For me, that single item I repeatedly turn to is my rusty beige, double-breasted, snap up leather jacket. Tha ’s right, leather.

polished and professional when styled properly.

Try to find so ter leathers: beiges, chestnuts and whites. Avoid lots of zippers, buttons and pockets, and aim to find sha p, tailored pieces. You’ll command attention at your next meeting by stepping into a beige leather coat, stilettos and messenger bag. Come to work in a knee-length camel leather skirt, crème sweater and leather-bound wristwatch.

Leather is fie ce, but not scary. Don’t be afraid to choose it for professional occasions.

Leather is bold. It’s irresistible, like Brad Pitt sporting his burgundy leather Fight Club jacket. It is timeless and daring. Leather makes everyone look— and feel—like a rock star. But why?

Catherine Plasket, a junior and avid leather-wearer, agrees leather can create an eye-catching, yet professional outfit

Maybe the answer can be found in a history lesson.

Leather became prominent in fashion during the 80s, as big-name designers like Armani, Versace and Gucci integrated the material in their designs.

Unlike many fads that come and (thankfully) go, the leather trend never left American pop-culture and remains a fashion statement that many embody today. But this look started long before its appearance on the runway.

Leather goods in the U.S. originated with Native Americans who used the material for tribal dresses, jackets and pants, commonly decorated with painted images of battle scenes.

Leather didn’t offici ly make its appearance in American fashion until after World War II, when designers began mimicking the iconic “bomber” jacket worn by air force pilots and other military men. Clearly associated with combat, it’s no wonder leather makes us feel fearless.

Soon leather became a classic look among rock bands, on the backs of motorcyclists and showcased on the most prestigious runways as a timeless look for fashion-forward women.

Today, faux leather pieces can be found for a small price. However, genuine leatherwear is considered a luxury good due to the tedious craftsmanship involved in processing the material into your favorite pair of clean-cut leather pants. Leather wearers benefit f om both connotations: strong and polished, badass and classy. When incorporated correctly, the right leather garment or accessory can accentuate any outfit or a variety of occasions.

From the it-girl out on the town to the chic professional, leather is as versatile as the types of people who wear it. You may be thinking, leather for work? Really? The ans er is yes. Leather looks 19 | Fall 2015

“I love leather pieces for interviews, like a leather tank to wear under a blazer,” said Plasket. “It’s fashionable and functional.”

The e’s no need to wait for your dream interview; leather works with everyday looks as well. Toss your textbooks in a leather backpack and slide on a pair of booties for a casual school day this fall. As the air gets colder, zip your thigh high boots over black denim pants, matched with a short wool jacket and scarf. Complete any cold weather look with a pair of crisp leather gloves. Leather may be bold, but the right pieces give a casual fall outfit a tou h of sophistication.

When shopping for your next go-to leather piece, don’t immediately turn away from the typical high prices. Instead, measure its value based on versatility.

Plasket suggests finding a staple leather j cket.

“It goes with everything and can be dressed up or down. A great jacket can be for going out or just with jeans,” said Plasket.

Do not restrict yourself to the high-priced department stores. Though enuine leather is hardly cheap, it has been in style since its fashion debut. As such, explore some alternative shopping methods.

Search your local vintage and consignment shops.

Countless vendors online offer real leather accessories and garments at a budget-friendly price—specifi ally check out Etsy.com under “vintage.” If you love the look but not the cost, know that you have options.

Leather is here to stay. Ignore that shapeless sweater and old wrinkled skirt and pull on the pair of leather pants you’ve been dying to wear. Whatever the case, leather screams confidenc , and is guaranteed to turn some heads.

HOW

DAD BOD REVOLUTIONIZED THE BODY IMAGE CONVERSATION written by Abbey Gingras

photography by David Malone Model: Nick Iacobelli 20 | Fall 2015

I

n March, college sophomore Mackenzie Pearson changed the world (or at least the dictionary) by adding the term “dad bod” to our regular vernacular.

their bodies back” after having children.

The 19 year old coined the phrase to describe men who work out to combat weight gain, but don’t exactly have rock hard abs. Chris Pratt, pre-Guardians of the Galaxy, for example.

“We definite y should be celebrating women’s bodies more,” Turner said. “Being a mother is one of the most beautiful things a human body can do and the fact that we spend so much time criticizing it is a shame. Your body changes and a lot of women take that as not beautiful. If we focused more attention on the positives and celebrated that their bodies are different and still beautiful, it would help a lot of women who struggle with body image.”

Since its push into the spotlight just over six months ago, dad bod has become a commonplace term used to describe men, particularly of the college age, who aren’t fit but a e proud of the way they look.

Among those with no shame for their love of the dad bod is senior Nick Iacobelli.

“It depends on the person and how they view themselves and how the person feels about their personal body image,” Iacobelli said. “But if you embrace how you look, you won’t care what other people think.”

College males aren’t the only ones with dad bods. As the name would suggest, this is a common physique for fathers. A study done by Dr. Craig Garfield at Northwest University proved that for most men, becoming a dad led to a four-pound weight increase.

Thus the dad bod is more than just a musing of a college student.

Two months after the springtime dad bod phenomena, “mom bod” took it’s turn in the limelight, earning a hashtag and media coverage rivaling the initial viral sensation. But men aren’t the only ones with natural figu es to flaunt

Body shaming in the media has been a constant in our society for decades, with different shapes and sizes of people being seen as desirable while others are not. While the dad bod might be the latest chapter in the saga of desirable physiques, it shows a celebration and an appreciation for bodies that haven’t been highlighted prominently in the media before.

Turner hopes this will help empower women in addition to men, especially new mothers who are focused on getting back their pre-baby bodies.

“Dads don’t have to have a kid in them for nine months and have permanent scars after. Its great that we aren’t shaming men, but lets look at the female body and start giving it the credit it deserves,” Turner said.

IF YOU EMBRACE HOW YOU LOOK, YOU WON’T CARE WHAT OTHER PEOPLE THINK

Women began to respond to the trending topic, no longer simply laughing at the term dad bod but wondering why we weren’t celebrating mom bods with equal ferocity.

The hrase called into question inequality between the sexes and media obsession with women “getting

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Junior Carleigh Turner thinks the conversation should be focused on both genders.

Iacobelli echoed Turner in accepting mom bods as well.

“I’m kind of surprised dad bods is a phenomenon to be honest, so I don’t see why mom bods should be any less embraced,” Iacobelli said.

Pearson’s small-time Odyssey article has launched a nationwide obsession with body acceptance and promotion of self love — quite the feat for the average college student.

miami man

written by Chase Bailey

O

n any typical day, you can find Nick Kroger at Kofenya or the library working away at the semester’s challenges. Sporting a funky flannel, the glasses of a true intellect and appropriately accessorized with a cup of coffee, Nick described exactly how he incorporates his interests into his daily routine, including what he wears.

A sophomore at Miami, Kroger busies himself as a Tappan Hall RA, an Adolescent English Education major, the Inklings Magazine Writing Director and an executive member of EHS Leadership Scholars.

A fervent writer, a semi‐connoisseur of art and an estranged guitarist from his high school punk band, he likes his creative conscious well exercised.

He readily admits that he wasn’t always interested in fashion, but over the years has discovered it as a creative outlet. He first started his transition into the alternative style he sports now when he was in high school. He says he attended an all‐male, Catholic high school – so he started to push the limits with

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photography by Rob Donato Model: Nick Kroger

the uniform he had to wear. He chose combat boots instead of dress shoes and incorporated a few eccentric flannels He noticed that he stuck out more with this newly adopted style, considering the people around him typically wore sporty clothing.

“I second‐guessed myself because of the looks I was getting when I first sta ted dressing alternatively, but I remember feeling happy the first time I identifie myself in a way that I felt,” said Kroger.

Kroger advocates that the way you dress is largely affected by your experiences. He claims that his style is affected by what he does and who he hangs out with.

Kroger says that he will look for alternative styles as he transitions into his professional career. If you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing, you’ll be more comfortable in what you do socially. He says that men have a hard time incorporating their personality into their professional wardrobe.

“For a male to enter the professional world, he has to restyle himself into the classic suit and tie appearance,” said Kroger.

Especially as a teacher, he thinks this can be detrimental for students because this appearance won’t be relatable if it doesn’t represent him as a person.

He says he’ll want his students to think of him as a person first and a te cher second.

“People tailor their dress to a context they want to be accepted in. When I was on the high school soccer team, I tended to wear more athletic clothing,” Kroger added.

Kroger’s style is entirely a representation of himself.

His day‐to‐day expressions change depending on what he wears. He doesn’t plan out his outfits the day before – he simply goes with what he’s feeling.

Many pieces of his wardrobe also have a sentimental value to him, which is why he chose to wear his late grandfather’s hat.

Some days he’ll throw on one of his beloved funky sweaters he hunts for at Goodwill. He also says that he has his days when he just doesn’t care and will throw on a pair of sweatpants and go. Kroger’s interests revolve around creativity and expression.

“Life is your art,” he said, “and that relates to fashion ‐ it could be overalls and a straw hat. For me, style is inherently related to color. What you put on is so related to the colors you choose and how they interact.”

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He represents this in the clothes that he wears.

Kroger would argue that what you want to wear should be what you wear and that your passions should be reflecti e on the surface.

“Dress how you feel, and don’t be afraid to explain yourself about your style,” said Kroger.

What he wears doesn’t separate him from people who dress differently than he does. Kroger says that especially on Miami’s campus, he sees a type of consumerism style. He argues that featuring that style is entirely okay and wearing the dominant style doesn’t make you a blank slate. The e needs to be an appreciation for all types of clothing because it can help people understand you but it can’t define you entirely.

One of his favorite places on campus is the art library, where he can flip th ough massive volumes and explore the different prints of art. Kroger feels a strong connection to certain genres of art, and draws inspiration from them.

“One of my favorite artists is Mark Rothko,” said Kroger.

Dress how you feel, and don’t be afraid to explain yourself about your style.

He explained that Rothko’s pieces have a specific movement to them. He uses vivid colors, bright expressions of the paint. Kroger shows this in his look. If he’s feeling down, a black shirt it is. Brighter colors might symbolize light‐hearted expressions.

To put this into context of Rothko, a bright flannel might show a mixing of emotion felt that day when layered over a simple black t‐shirt.

“It’s about perspective – it’s about emotion and evoking emotion by what you see. I’m so excited and so passionate about so many things,” said Kroger.

He urges people to express themselves and to employ their experiences and passions into what they’re wearing.

A Walk In

THEIR SHOES Women embrace their flaws through the power of self love written by Angela Hatcher

A

t first glanc , you would think MonaMae Juwillie has nothing to be insecure about.

She has a radiant smile, an effortless yet edgy sense of style and flawless dewy skin.

“Tha ’s probably because I just ran through the rain,” she chuckled, dabbing at her forehead.

But Juwillie’s life has been far from easy.

“It was just a normal check up with my doctor,” Juwillie said. “She had me bend over and touch my toes and all she said was ‘uh oh’, and I knew something was wrong.”

She got an xray the next day. At 11 years old, Mona had a forty degree curvature of the spine, a rather severe case of scoliosis.

Her specialist prescribed her with a brace to wear 23 hours a day to try and reverse the damage.

“It was awful,” she said, remembering the medieval torture device. “Like a waist trainer, but with a huge hump in back. I used to wear layers and layers of sweaters to try and hide it. I didn’t want anyone to see.”

When high school rolled around, she refused to wear it. She didn’t want to 24 | Fall 2015

styled by Lily Manchester photographed by Kendall Erickson Model: Mona-Mae Juwillie

begin her freshman year with a brace sculpted to her body. Her curvature grew more severe; 54 degrees on the top of her spine and 54 degrees on the bottom.

Surgery became inevitable.

“We left home at four in the morning. The sur ery took 6 hours. I don’t remember much, but when I woke up in the ICU, I was in so much pain,” she said.

The emnants of her scoliosis? A single incision that ran down her back from the nape of her neck to just an inch above her tailbone. After a week of recovery and painfully intensive physical therapy in the hospital, she went home and relearned how to be active with her spine. Despite the severity of her pain, she worked hard to reclaim her old life.

As the year progressed her wound healed and the stitches dissolved until all that was left of her surgery was the memory and a scar.

“It was so ugly,” she said. “I couldn’t even look at it, it was terrible. Nothing I wore hid it properly.”

Her smile sunk into a pondering frown.

“I had two of the same kind of shirt, one white and one pink. Th y were these adorable, my absolute favorites; really low cut in the back, exposing everything. But I never wore them in public. Th y showed a little bit too much, you know?”

Juwillie said.

She preferred tee shirts and sweaters.

Chantelle Winnie, model for the brand Desigual works her rare skin condidtion on the runway. She has vitiligo, what her doctor called an abnormality of the skin that causes a loss of pigmentation, leaving certain areas of her skin white as snow.

People laughed at her and nicknamed her “spots.” In her interview with a reporter from the Guardian, she jokes that she’s a “gorgeous cow” and that “cheetahs are sexy” in response to the negative comments she was receiving on social media. Winnie took it upon herself to embrace her “spots” and will be strutting her stuff in Desigua ’s runway show this spring for the second time.

This past ebruary, FTL MODA enlisted a group of disabled models to work the latest and greatest designs at New York Fashion Week. Some catwalkers were amputees, others bound by canes and wheelchairs. Nothing stopped them from making a bold fashion statement.

Worldwide, women are becoming more and more confident with emb acing who they are. What some may see as flaws they see as badges of individuality, markers of their unapologetic attitudes toward

“I just looked at my scar in the mirror and thought, ‘Why am I giving you so much power?’”

“You see, I was always self conscious, even before the scar.” Juwillie explained. “But one day when I woke up I just looked at my scar in the mirror and thought, ‘why am I giving you so much power?’ It’s not like the scar was the thing that made me insecure, it just projected my feelings onto my body. So I decided that it was time for me to take pride in my body, flaws and a l.”

She wore a backless dress to homecoming that year and a prom dress that revealed her entire back the next.

Her scar? Irrelevant.

Mona’s experience not only marks her own personal 25 | Fall 2015

revelation, but is a reflecti n of a revolution in the fashion industry. Women and men alike are taking it upon themselves to flaunt what people ould typically see as flaws skin diseases, disabilities, even scars.

flaunting very inch of their beautiful, natural selves.

MonaMae Juwillie, Chantelle Winnie and countless other women are here to say goodbye to the social constructs that made them live in fear of their flaws Mona quotes the song “Who You Are” by Jesse J as advice she would give her younger self.

“Seeing is deceiving, dreaming is believing, it’s okay not to be okay.”

revamp YOUR

DEN IM PARTY LIKE IT’S 1999

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styled by Haley Spindler photography by Livvy List Model: Emma Nook

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#SorryNotSorry written by Haley Jena

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L

ast week, I sent my friend a Snapchat wearing a baseball cap with my hair in a braid and my tongue hanging freely from my mouth. While the nature of the picture was funny, I gave it a filte and admittedly warmed up to the photo. Something about the effortlessness of the photo gave it a likeable and natural appeal. While my friend teased me for the middle school-esque picture, it’s still saved on my camera roll, waiting to be posted.

Social media is undoubtedly addictive and a huge factor of determining what’s “in.” With their number of followers skyrocketing each day, celebrities have a huge advantage in dominating the media and our culture.

From Instagram to Twitter to Facebook, some of our favorite icons are proving the power of unapologetically being yourself -- from a shameless selfie like mine to political topic they’re passionate about. Through movements such as “Free the Nipple” and posting filter-f ee photos for the No Makeup Challenge, social media is unabashedly full of celebs and students taking it by storm.

“I use Facebook to speak to the masses,” said Miami first ear Audrey Lipps. “By posting about subjects such as Kim Davis, Black Lives Matter protests, or other political or social issues in today’s world, I feel like I try to plant a seed for a Facebook audience that might not otherwise notice.”

As cliché as it is, it’s truly fashionable to be yourself.

Here are some of our favorite unapologetic social media accounts.

Cara Delevingne

One word: rad. This girl is the epitome of individual freedom. Encouraging fans to be weird and be themselves, Delevingne’s Instagram is a unique collection of political statements mixed with wide-eyed pictures of herself. Unhesitant to post what’s on her mind and scheming up captions overfl wing with emojis, the posts are nothing less than fun and inspiring. “Be brave. Take risks.

Nothing can substitute experience,” reads one of her posts. Another is a screenshot of an online article reporting the Supreme Court ruling legalizing gay marriage nationwide, with the caption “#LoveWins #Equality.” The world’s right-now hottest star isn’t afraid to hold back on being original and unafraid. Her bio reads, “Embrace your weirdness.” And we love it.

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Rihanna

Just by her username @badgalriri, you can already tell Rihanna is not to be trifled with Posting multiple shots of herself at a time, Rihanna simultaneously creates bold messages while proving to her world of followers that she’s always going to be a “bad gal.” Remember the 2014 CFDA fashion awards when RiRi wore an awe-inspiring see-through gown entirely made of 230,000 crystals? The dress itself is a symbol of self-confidence and success When asked by a reporter if she would wear the dress after the awards show, the singer answered, “Yes I am. Do my tits bother you?

They’re covered in Swarovski crystals, girl!” On her Instagram, you can find isqué shots of herself from events such as Brazil photo shoots and the BET Awards. And the self-love gets mad love: on a post of herself with two friends covered in feathers and jewels at Crop Over captioned “black iz beautiful.” Over 6,500 comments (and counting) praise the proudness and beautiful essence of being real.

Nicki Minaj

She broke the world record for the most-viewed video in twenty-four hours for “Anaconda,” so it only makes sense that she’s on our list of most-loved social media accounts. Often speaking on the need to tear down institutionalized racism in the United States, Minaj uses her power ruthlessly and for the better, often spreading awareness on social issues. Everyone remembers the Twitter heat which began with Minaj calling out the music industry for always nominating “women with very slim bodies” for awards. Minaj’s followers got a real lesson in the modern presence of racism in the U.S. Further using social media to an advantage, the rappear commented on the success of Straight Outta Compton, saying in a post “When black/HipHop driven movies start doing these numbers at the box offic EVERYONE takes notice! Unheard of!!! 50-60 million dollar debuts are just another level. Our movies should always do these numbers.” We applaud and we bow to your voice and awareness, Queen Nicki.

“I love that Nicki speaks her mind and criticizes the media upfront. She’s unapologetic and confident and i rocking the hip-hop revolution,” Lipps said.

From Cara to Rihanna to Nicki and more, we take inspiration and approval from our favorite celebs’ posts.

And we’re happier than ever that what’s popular is what makes you, you. I’m going to go post that selfie n w.

H I JA B S A look behind the statement of faith. written by Olivia Lewis

S

he doesn’t want the frosty stares, the muttering behind her back or the lament that she’s hiding an explosive under that gauzy fabric. What the Muslim woman wants people to understand is that the hijab is a source of empowerment and beauty. It’s a way of life, and rather than apologize, she dons it proudly.

As debates over Muslim women heighten, Miami sophomore Megan Zimmerer and Miami senior Saara Khalid, both Muslim students, unveil what life is like for hijabi women in a post-9/11 climate. Together, they’re joined by University of Michigan associate professor Evelyn Alsultany, the Director of the Arab and Muslim American Studies Program.

UP: What does wearing the hijab symbolize for the women who wear them?

Alsultany: Some women express their modesty through wearing the hijab. In other contexts, for example in Algeria, France’s colonial rule of the country led to more women embracing the hijab as a form of resistance to European imperialism. Islam manifests differently in various cultural contexts, so it’s impossible to say that hijab means one thing for all Muslim women.

UP: What does wearing the hijab mean to you?

Zimmerer: I believe that dressing modestly is liberating for women because it conveys a deep respect for one’s self and a mentality that extends beyond physicality.

As a woman with pale skin, green eyes and an American accent, hardly anyone would think to ask if I am Muslim. Wearing hijab helps to identify me as a Muslim, which gives me more opportunities to connect with the Muslim community and address people who are curious about the faith.

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styled by Alli Robben photographed by Shannon Pressler Model: Megan Zimmerer

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Vest: Bluetique, $51.00 Top: Bluetique, 51.00 Clutch: Bluetique, $60.00 Necklace: Bluetique, $32.00 36 | Fall 2015

UP: What sort of misconceptions and negative perceptions do people have about hijab?

UP: Do you know any hijabi women interested in fashion?

Zimmerer: I’ve had a lot of misguided questions about my faith, some of which are comical. “Do you shower in that?” and “Do you worship cows?” being my favorites. People assume that women are oppressed as a result of Islamic teachings. I had a skiing accident last year, which gave me large cuts on my face, and the assumption among my peers concerning the injury was that I’d been violently beaten. I have to wonder if that would’ve been the case if I wasn’t a Muslim woman.

Khalid: I had a counselor at a Muslim youth camp who became a fashion designer to design hijabi clothing. It’s cool because she’s a Muslim who wears hijab for her own convictions and her designs are true to that. You see hijabis wearing gorgeous patterns and designs. When I see a woman wearing hijab, I can’t think of a more beautiful outfit be ause to me, that speaks of her soul.

UP: Why do people have these misconceptions?

Alsultany: Most of the stories in the news media about Muslim women are about oppressive conditions. We rarely get stories of women who are thriving in their lives. Instead, the story of oppression, like women in Afghanistan living under Taliban rule, is what makes headlines news.

UP: Have you been discriminated against for wearing the hijab? How so?

Zimmerer: My experience with hijab has been mostly positive. However, my best friend, who happens to be African American, as well as my Arab Muslim friends, have experienced a much stronger degree of discrimination. I think it would be foolish to ignore that racial stereotypes are at work here.

Khalid: I’ve been called a terrorist, told to go home and others have said that I’m oppressed. When I studied abroad in Russia last year, the security there had me stand and face them at different angles for several minutes while they held up the photos on my passport and my ID, which were taken just a year apart.

UP: In response to the stereotype that hijab is unfashionable, H&M featured hijabi models for the first time earlier this year. Do you see this as being positive or negative for Muslim women?

Khalid: On one level, this can help many girls who want to be accepted for wearing hijab. But, I also see an industry hijacking hijab. By turning hijab into a fashion statement, designers are contradicting the message that hijab is sending, which is to value women for more than their beauty.

Designers want to put their spin on it and I worry that Muslim women aren’t going to have a say in how they’re represented.

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UP: How many headscarves do you own at the moment and where do you usually buy them?

Zimmerer: This is slight y embarrassing, but I’d say I probably have about 80 scarves and I buy them everywhere.

Khalid: Countless. Maybe 50? I only keep 15 to 20 at college, but I own a lot. I buy the scarves you can get at TJ Maxx and wrap them differently.

UP: What would be your advice to women who are discriminated against for wearing hijab? How should Muslim women respond to claims that hijab is unfashionable?

Khalid: People who discriminate are dominated by hatred and act out of ignorance. That does ’t reflect on you and no hate can take away from your beauty.

If someone says hijab is unfashionable, I would advise saying two things. One, “Watch me rock it!” and two, “Why is fashion important? I derive my self-worth from my intelligence, strength, kindness and achievements.”

UP: What do you think people can do to combat the negative perceptions of hijab?

Zimmerer: I think the best thing we can do to combat negative stereotypes is to talk about them.

If you feel hijab is oppressive, ask a hijabi what she thinks about it. Engage in critical thinking and immerse yourself in the real world, which is far more diverse and complex than it seems.

Forget the suspicious glances and hushed whispering.

The Muslim oman wants people to know that donning hijab is a diverse and personal practice.

Overall, she desires a society that sees her headscarf as beautiful rather than threatening, and a world that knows she’s more than the fabric that frames her face.

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styled byAbigail Bates photographed by Alyssa Sato Models: Sam Wolanske, Brooke Schmidt On Brooke: Red Plaid Jacket–Bluetique, $89.00 On Sam: Columbia flannel–Seaview Outfitters, $39.99 39 | Fall 2015

White button down: Seaview Outfitters, $98.50 40 | Fall 2015

Plaid dress: Juniper, $54.50 Black bucket bag: Apple Tree, $55

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Black sweater skirt: Juniper, $42.50 Grey Tank top: Juniper, $24.50 Green & Black scarf: Apple Tree, $36.99

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miami university A FRESH START FOR

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS written by Soumya Trivedi

photography by Rob Donato Model: Suni Nguyen and Gloria Zhu

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hen international students come to the United States for university, they have the option to start over. Th y can pick whatever name they want and change the way they dress and look. It’s like a fresh start.

International students come to Miami University unaware of the distinct Miami look. Leggings, sweaters, riding boots and monograms are everywhere on campus. Students here wear preppy clothes with bright colors and tighter fittings International students have mixed views on Miami’s way of dressing.

Chu Chu, an international student from China, said that when she first ame to Miami she didn’t expect that great of a change in fashion and was surprised when she saw Miami’s style.

“In China, we wear more loose clothes. Here in America people wear more tighter fitted lothes,” said Chu Chu. She changed her style of clothing, not because she wanted to, but because of the pressure to fit in Her wardrobe included more pastel colored t-shirts with brand names and leggings. The e are occasional days that she will wear clothes that she is more used to wearing.

Many international students at Miami University try to fit into the Miami mold to be ccepted into the community. Coming from halfway across the world, it is important for many international students to fit in and be ccepted into the community. This an make or break their experience here.

Another international student from China, Ting Zhao, had a different experience. She loves the Miami way of dressing. She thinks that it is very different from what she wore in China, but she finds the Miami style much more comfortable and cute.

“I sometimes wear American clothes and sometimes I wear more Chinese clothes,” said Zhao.

I am an international student at Miami as well.

Before coming to Miami, I thought that my style was pretty westernized.

During the first eek of my freshman year, I realized the differences. The Miami populati n wore more brand name and shorter clothes. The“going-out” dresses that I had brought with me from India were all knee-length and that didn’t fit with the Miami look. Nobody wears knee-length dresses uptown.

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In India the weather is always very warm, with temperatures going up to 118 degrees. I never needed to buy riding boots or sweaters. When fall arrived at Miami, everyone girl I saw was wearing leggings with an oversized sweater paired with riding boots. I went to Kenwood Mall the very next to change my entire wardrobe.

Now my closet consists of a lot sweaters, leggings, riding boots and dresses that I can wear uptown. I never felt pressured to change my fashion. I just liked the Miami style better.

That does ’t mean that I don’t incorporate my Indian style in my everyday attire. I do own my fair share of Vineyard Vines and Patagonia, but I still wear clothes that have bold colors, like my favorite bright orange elephant t-shirt, and Indian prints. I accessorize myself with beaded bracelets and bangles made from seashells, copper and other materials.

Fashion is not the only thing that international students change when they come to Miami. Many of them have names that are difficult or domestic students and professors to pronounce.

The e are many international students who shorten their name or change it completely when they come here, just to fit in I used to be one of them. My name is Soumya, and I went by Mia my whole freshman year. Sure, people could remember me easier and didn’t have to struggle to say my name, but I hated it. My name was not Mia, but I let people call me that just to fit in Sophomore year I decided to not change my name just in order to fit in I started going by Soumya again. My name is a part of my identity and I wasn’t going to change it.

That is ’t to say that no international should change their name. If one feels comfortable with their changed name, they can. But no one should feel pressured to change their name in order to fit in Be it fashion or names, there is a distinct difference for international students when compared to their home country. These di erences shouldn’t put pressure on them to change themselves completely; they just need to adapt. Most importantly, international students should be proud of their own culture while embracing the new.

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photography submitted by Connor Wilkinson 48 | Fall 2015

NO APOLOGIES NEEDED Bringing Awareness & Acceptance to theTransgender Community written by Liz O’Loughlin

T

he greatest thing a person can have is an identity. An identity defines our confidence l vels, your self‐awareness, and your personality. When we are comfortable with who we are, we often find that e don’t need to spend time searching for happiness, searching for love, searching for anything. With self‐security, those things are already there.

Finding your identity isn’t a simple task. For many, this search has taken years, if not an entire life. One notable search for identity has cast a spotlight in the media and in politics.

A handful of celebrities—most notably Caitlin Jenner—have rejoiced in the fact that they have found their identities: they are transgender people. It is important to note the correct use of terminology. The te m “transgender” is not a noun; it is an adjective.

The efore, referring to people as “transgender” is incorrect. The gap be ween the heterosexual community and the transgender community will lessen once the heterosexual community educates itself. In fact, most people do not understand what it means to be a transgender person.

Connor Wilkinson, a Miami alumnus, shared his own quest to bring awareness— awareness to himself. Growing up, Connor explained he struggled connecting his feelings to what they meant. Genetically, he was born a female, but internally, he didn’t identify as a such. His family, due to their lack of exposure to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, and Asexual (LGBTQA) community, always assured him that his lack of self‐connection with being a female was simply a phase.

Connor identified as a lesbian be ause he “didn’t know what being transgender meant” and “people told [him] that [he] could only be a girl.” Considering he was attracted to females and was born a female, identifying as a lesbian seemed to be the only explanation. Eventually, Connor found the explanation for how he really felt. According to GLAAD (Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation), “transgender is a term used to describe people whose gender identity differs from the sex the doctor marked on their birth certifi ate. For transgender people, the sex they were assigned at birth and their own internal gender identity do not match.”

The first y of freshman year was Connor’s first d y identifying as a transgender person.

While most people believe college is a time to be whatever person you want to be, Connor explained that as a transgender person, that belief could not entirely come true for him.

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He quickly realized that Miami’s resources were scarce and that with such a conservative campus, there were very few people who were truly accepting.

“The e weren’t many people who also identified as LGBTQ and those who did had a lot of internalized homophobia. It honestly was very lonely,” Connor said.

While at this time he was still anatomically a female, he identified as a mal . Despite this, he still lived as though he was a girl.

“I was forced to live on a female floor with a emale roommate, use the female restrooms in the dorm, etc.

I cannot tell you how depersonalizing it was,” said Connor.

As a Miami students, full of the love and honor mantra, Connor’s words should strike a chord. For someone to be denied acceptance from the people of this campus—as well as anywhere else for that matter—is completely inhumane. As Miami students, we need to set the precedent for other campuses in terms of bringing acceptance to the transgender community. Who is one person to tell another person how to identify him or herself ?

Connor was able to find esources via the student counseling center. Connor began hormonal treatments and started to transition to completely identifying as a male during his later years at Miami. His family started to adjust as well and they are supportive of his change. Connor found his Miami Merger and married her this past August.

She has been one of his strongest supporters.

“She went to my first doctor appointment with m , gave me my testosterone shots for the first ear, and helped me after I had surgery on my chest last September,” said Connor. “She’s my best friend, and I couldn’t ask for a better person to spend my life with.”

Th y have an adorable 6 week old daughter as well.

“She is also an amazing mother. We adopted our daughter at birth on August 21st of this year.

Being able to be there together for every moment of her life so far is something I will be eternally grateful for,” said Connor.

Connor is fortunate and grateful for all the love surrounding him, but acknowledges that other transgender people unfortunately do not have the same experience.

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“The big est thing that people need to understand is that being trans isn’t a choice,” said Connor. “Why would someone choose to be a part of a highly stigmatized and discriminated against class? No one wants to be hated, no one wants to have to take medication for the rest of their life, and no one wants to have surgery just so that they can sort of feel comfortable in their own bodies”.

The ord transgender is not a noun but an adjective.

Being transgender does not define who these people really are. The ord is just one descriptive piece of a whole complex person. The media has b ought attention to transgender issues and although being transgender is starting to become normalized, there are still many issues that need to be addressed. The majo ity of educational institutions subject their students to unfriendly transgender policies. Students are expected to use restrooms that match the gender they were born with, not the gender they identify with. As an impressionable young child, this can be traumatizing.

In January 2014, the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law published their findings of a national discrimination survey they conducted.

Their eport titled “Suicide Attempts among Transgender and Gender Non‐Conforming Adults,” states that 46% of the trans men surveyed and 42% of the trans women surveyed had attempted suicide at least once. This di ers from the 4.6% of the overall U.S. population who report a lifetime suicide attempt. TheWilliams Institute also reports that 50‐59% of transgender and non‐conforming adults experience harassment in the workplace.

Many transgender individuals face unemployment, homelessness, and denial of healthcare‐‐60% of respondents indicated that a doctor or healthcare professional refused to treat them. With the help of people like Connor Wilkinson and Caitlin Jenner, the nation will slowly come together and move towards complete acceptance of the transgender community. This cceptance starts with us though, students at colleges and universities.

On Miami’s website, the Institutional Diversity statement reads, “At Miami, our mission is to empower each student, staff, and faculty member to promote and become engaged citizens who use their acquired knowledge and skills with integrity and compassion to improve the future of the community and the world.” Bringing awareness and acceptance to the transgender community is crucial to fulfi ling this mission.

Despite the obstacles Connor faced, he is proud to acknowledge who he is.

photography submitted by Connor Wilkinson 51 | Fall 2015

DIY Written by Greta Hallberg

photography by Kendall Erickson 52 | Fall 2015

A

ny dedicated Pinterest user probably has an entire board devoted to arts and crafts. With blogs and video tutorials a few keystrokes away, it is easier than ever to pick up a new skill.

With these skills, you can find a n w way to express yourself by remaking the things you own. Madeline Rieman, president of Miami University Club of Fashion and Design, is a professional DIY-er. From home décor to beaded jackets, Rieman loves art projects.

“I like being creative and it’s an outlet for me,” said Rieman. “It’s a way for me to de-stress and not worry about the other things that happen in my life.”

Rieman and Christina Beebe, the vice president of MUCFD, both created collections for the annual MUCFD runway show last year. From design conception to cutting and sewing, these creative girls have demonstrated a knack for making their clothes their own.

Simple fi es can transform even the most basic of pieces into something that reflects ou.

“If you have a vision for something and you can’t find it find s mething simple and change it,” said Beebe. “A cut and a sew here and there might make something exactly what you want.”

Blogger and writer Erin Mallory Long sported a plain white tee with the words “Cool Kids” embroidered across her chest. She posted a selfie n her Instagram, which generated some web traffic – and ideas for simila ly cheeky homemade t-shirts. Anyone with basic hand-sewing skills can easily stitch a phrase or picture on a simple tee. Ironic rap lyrics sewn in pastels or tiny fl wers lining the seams can show off your personality.

Can’t stitch to save your life? Fear not. YouTube and crafting blogs are here to help.

“If you want to learn how to sew, you can learn how to sew,” said Beebe. “There are so many tutorials online.”

Accessories are the best way to amp up any outfit an show off your personal style.

“I used to take my grandmother’s old purses and redo them,” said Christina Beebe. “I would hand sew beaded tassels on them.”

Beebe laughs at the idea of those purses now and regrets changing vintage handbags. Her style has evolved since middle school, but the sentiment remains the same. Trims 53 | Fall 2015

and tassels are fairly simple to sew into seams and transform a bland accessory into a statement piece.

Blue jeans are another sartorial staple that can be cut, sewn and embellished to let you stand out in a sea of dark wash skinnies. One easy trend to master that doesn’t require any stitching – rip out the bottom hem. You’ll get a cool, frayed look around your ankles with interesting striping in the wash.

Mom jeans and high-risers, while being universally flatte ing, are a modern trend with roots in 90s grunge.

Rieman recommends finding an inexpensi e pair second hand.

You can easily cut up your pair of thrifted jeans to look more normcore and less middle-aged. The best way to get rips in the knees is to cut two slits instead of one. Using tweezers, pull out the strands of blue fabric, leaving the white strings to hang loose. Easily distressed denim with no sewing involved.

“There’s lots of ways to go about not having to use a sewing machine,” said Rieman. “It’s being able to think about it outside the box.”

Leandra Medine is the blogger and brains behind Man Repeller. She advocates for wearing blouses backwards for a unique fit She wears them off the shoulder, and repurposes them as skirts. MUCFD’s Madeline Rieman uses the same technique. She once found a men’s button down that she wore as a dress and a shirt. “[I can make a piece different] just by changing how I’m wearing it or how I’m putting it around my body,” said Rieman.

The Internet is a creative haven for fashionistas. It’s easy to get sucked into seeing a look and buying the closest alternative you can find nline.

“If you see something online that you really like,” said Rieman, “why do you have to buy it?”

But it doesn’t have to be that way. A few minor changes could change something simple into exactly what you want.

Wearing something you helped bring to fruition brings a sense of pride, especially when you inevitably get compliments on a piece that nobody else has.

Creating something that’s uniquely yours is the best way to showcase you.

styled by Berkeley Combs photographed by Francesca Peck Models: Isabelle Bromberg, Berkeley Combs Cheetah belt: Bluetique, $12 54 | Fall 2015

IMPACT FASHION FAVORS THE BOLD

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Fuzzy vest: Bluetique, $89

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Striped skirt: Bluetique, $57

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SCHUMER ME THIS

The Queen of

Unapologetic written by Kevin O’Hara

photography by Connor Moriarty Model: Kevin O’Hara 62 | Fall 2015

P

icture this: A prestigious gala in the heart of New York. Sleek, black limousines cruise past Lincoln Center, cameras flashing in the evening light. Dignitaries and starlets step onto a vibrant red carpet, glossed lips curling upward as questions and exclamations fi l the air.

Everywhere you turn, influential f ces stare back. Just over there, Laverne Cox’s exuberant smile lights up the room. Then ou see Bradley Cooper, his icy blue eyes piercing photographer’s lenses as he pushes back that thick, dark hair. You even see Kanye and Kim Kardashian West as they walk past... Wait. Who is that? Enter Amy Schumer.

With a loud, “Oh!” the comedian faceplants in front of Kimye. Schumer stands up, feigning embarrassment as the couple saunters away amidst uproarious laughter. Face flushed Schumer goes back to posing, a hint of a smile in her round cheeks. It is the same smile that the world sees on athletes as they hold up their medals, or upon actors as their perspiring hands grip a glinting, golden award. The kind of smile that says, “I did what I do best,” not a single blonde hair out of place.

Always the funny girl, Amy Schumer was born on June 1, 1981 on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.

According to CBS, When Schumer was twelve, her family went bankrupt and her father was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Soon after moving to Long Island, Schumer’s parents filed or divorce, leaving her to feel the full weight of growing up. Once in high school, Schumer was captain of the volleyball team and became a popular and friendly member of her class.

“I was running my high school,” Schumer said at the Gloria Awards. “I knew which custodians had pot.

People knew me. Th y liked me. I was an athlete and a good friend. I felt pretty, I felt funny, I felt sane.”

Everything changed when Schumer attended college at Towson University in Maryland.

“All of a sudden, being witty and charismatic didn’t mean shit,” Schumer later said in the same speech.

“Day after day, I could feel the confidence d ain from my body. I was not what these guys wanted. My sassy one-liners were only working on the cafeteria employees, who I was visiting all too frequently, tacking on not the Freshman 15, but the 30, in record-breaking time.”

According to Vulture.com, meeting a young man named Matt helped Schumer feel a bit more like her old self. He was the first co lege boy who had shown

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any interest in her, leading Schumer to answer a booty call that she would never forget.

“I could feel I was losing myself to [the] girl in [that] bed,” Schumer said of the sexual encounter while finishing up her spee h at the Gloria Awards in New York City. “What happened to [that] girl? How did she get [there]? [Then] I ent, ‘Oh, wait! I am this girl! We got to get me out of here!’ [and] I became my own fairy godmother.”

Ever since leaving that room, Amy Schumer has never looked back. After finishing ourth on NBC’s Last Comic Standing in 2007, Schumer went on to write and star in her own sketch series entitled Inside Amy Schumer, which has won a Peabody and Emmy award since its first episode in 2013 Most recently, Schumer was also the writer and star of the hit movie Trainwreck. “[Comedy] is an opportunity to be really honest about [things] that a lot of people aren’t open about,” Schumer said in an interview with CBS Sunday Morning. “[It’s important that] you can be honest [and laugh] about something that is so seemingly forbidden, because that is when the most ridiculous stuff happens ” Humor is the tool that Schumer uses to confront issues like body image, gender inequality and other concerns our society faces. A self-proclaimed feminist, Schumer said that she thinks it is “so crazy that people don’t identify as feminist” in the same interview with CBS. Whether she is taking jabs at the media’s view on aging women in the skit “Last Fuckable Day,” or men’s stereotypically piggish opinions on sex in “12 Angry Men,” Schumer proves there is no better way to get points across than to make people laugh at society’s outrageous truths.

Above all, Schumer is a huge advocate for owning who you are. In fact, her hilarious skit “Compliments” focuses on how people tear themselves down instead of being proud of how they look and what they’ve done. Whether you are gay, straight, black, white, tall, short, fat or skinny, Schumer believes that you should never be afraid of who you are and what you have to say.

After all, what is more beautiful than someone who is willing to be themselves in a world of others trying to be something they are not? Be different. Be fearless. Be unapologetic. And most importantly?

Be you.

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uptown rebel

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styled by Gloria Yueling Zhu photographed by Connor Moriarty Model: Rae Claire Embrey 67 | Fall 2015

styled by Hannah Jolly photography by Bryce Belyeu Model: Alexis Carpenter 68 | Fall 2015

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This fall your shades should be anything but basic.

Channel the past with a pair of retro cat eyes with mirrored lenses. Big, bold frames will make a statement in a geometric shape. Block the sun and the haters while looking unapologetically cool.

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styled by Emma Nook photographed by Livvy List Model: Isabelle Hanson 71 | Fall 2015

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