SPRING 2019 1 VIM Magazine
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W E C O U L D N O T H AV E D O N E I T W I T H O U T YO U ! T H A N K YO U F O R M A K I N G O U R S P R I N G FA S H I O N S H O W P O S S I B L E !
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EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Kara Dempsey & Zoey Berghoff ASSISTANT TO THE EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Wolfgang Ruth ART DIRECTORS Anna Warbel & Kelly Phalen MANAGING EDITOR Jordan Sickon COPY EDITING DIRECTOR Caroline Johnson CREATIVE DIRECTOR Hanna Darnell WOMEN’S FASHION DIRECTOR Mackenzie McDonell ASSISTANT WOMEN’S FASHION DIRECTOR Meghan Provenzano MEN’S FASHION DIRECTOR Molly Harmon LIFESTYLE DIRECTORS Charlotte Beers & Katie Kalass ASSISTANT LIFESTYLE DIRECTOR Monique Ross HEALTH & BEAUTY DIRECTOR Jessica Hanna ASSISTANT HEALTH & BEAUTY DIRECTOR Steffany Kim CREATIVE BEAUTY DIRECTORS Hannah Kutchinski & Sakina Abedi EVENTS DIRECTOR Morgan Schwanky ASSISTANT EVENTS DIRECTOR Katie Telder VISUAL MEDIA DIRECTORS Lauren Wallenfels & Amanda Schlau MARKETING DIRECTORS Courtney Monge & Alaina Warburton PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR Holly Kitts ASSISTANT PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR Mattie Milne SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTORS Mady Emerson & Wolfgang Ruth ASSISTANT SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Madeline Strintz ADVERTISING DIRECTORS Whitney Thalheimer & Eve DeMeester ASSITANT ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Taylor Anderson PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR Gemma Darr ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR Nicole Ma DIGITAL BLOG DIRECTOR Heather Haely ASSISTANT DIGITAL BLOG DIRECTOR Nareh Vartanian DIGITAL CREATIVE DIRECTORS Taylor Stack & Taylor Sterenberg ASSITANT DIGITAL CREATIVE DIRECTORS Lindsay Simos & Maddie Stoy FINANCE DIRECTOR Hannah Huehn ASSISTANT FINANCE DIRECTORS Nina Kirchner & Alyssa Mills FILM DIRECTOR Sara Seryani CASTING DIRECTORS Abigail Rothe & Shannon Parr ASSISTANT CASTING DIRECTOR Caroline Semler FASHION SHOW DIRECTOR Thomas Messenger ASSITANT FASHION SHOW DIRECTOR Katty Genson ART TEAM Grace Allen, Lauren Johnson, Sarah Funk, Nicole Borchenko, Maegan French COPY EDITING TEAM Sophie Schmidt, Emily Pille, Emma Heikkinen
CREATIVE TEAM Meghan Lloyd, Eve Voci , Lydia Reynolds WOMEN’S FASHION TEAM Haley Poag, Evana Caruso, Sarrah Abudayeh, Rachel Yu, Kit Harmer, Noel Thomas, Hannah Pace, Ri’An Jackson, Gina Navaroli, Kayla Effner MEN’S FASHION TEAM Dwayne LaGrone, Baraka Macharia, Vanessa Hanna, Amy Vlachos, Ali Rasmussen, Madison Walsh, Claire Balderson, Christian Ostrowski, Nicole Glynn, Jordan Kilgren EVENTS TEAM Anoushka Ravindran, Peri Applefield, Rachel White, Rachel Samet , Kayce Wright, Danielle Doherty, Gabrielle Guerra CREATIVE BEAUTY TEAM Dianne Avila, Melissa Nichols, Morgan Lynch, Kathryn Remy, Michaella Andersen HEALTH & BEAUTY TEAM Michelle Clarkson, Zena Kashat , Marchella Leone, Violet Wesenberg, Alisha Ungkuldee, Cyrin Watson LIFESTYLE TEAM Kayla McKaig, Gracen Corcoran, Alina Zhuravel, Paxton Ellul, Sydney Pitynski, Claire Ryan, Elena Bulthuis, Leah Wedgle, Belén Martínez, Karina Lloyd, Kendyl Keyes, Abby Jaroszewicz, Haley Klein SOCIAL MEDIA TEAM Mira Heaney, Sophie Chernow, Lauren Zollo, Maddy Eagle, Jillian Jaeger, Mary Beth Flores, Hope Ann Flores, Bridget Bartos MARKETING TEAM Shelby Zeigler, Olivia Moliassa, Shannon Kilbride, Stephanie Kline, Kendall Harris, Babz Afolabi, Marley Jenks PUBLIC RELATIONS TEAM Aubrey Haase, Brianna Olszewski, Madeline Stamm, Piper Cook, Chloe Ambas, Maria Lowe CASTING TEAM Camryn Cureton, Tori Tullio ,Molly Gundry, Brianna Elizalde ADVERTISING TEAM Bella Jacks, Ashley Ayers, Lexie Harris, Emma Rafferty, Natalie Groves, Grace Wilson, Bella Zelanzy, Gabby Morello PRINT PHOTOGRAPHERS Tarron Fields, Alec Plymale, Tommy Massa, Jenna DiClemente, Deon Nevins, Jill Gretzinger, Kaitlin Grant, Sadie Layher, Shelby Burnett PHOTOGRAPHER ASSISTANTS Mikayla Reighley, Shaun Hayes, Natashia Evelyn, Maria Grigg, Julia Lobello, Julia Hennemann, Emma Putney, Eseraa Ali VISUAL MEDIA TEAM Julia Schwartz, Anna Francone, Paola Delaj, Sterling Goddard DIGITAL BLOG TEAM Shelby Hull, Carly Komar, Anne Dubois Kayla Norris, Brianna Lane, Dakota Blaszczyk FINANCE TEAM Grace Salloum, Maisie Kern, Zoe Fowlkes FASHION SHOW TEAM Ally Forkin, Erin Dempsey, Lulu Fossum FILM TEAM Allyson Nicholson, Brett Moore, Dylan Curtis, Sydney Mireles , Malia Athanasiou, Cody Church, Jenny Chau Moises Garcia, Leah Croghan, Jack Gallagher, Nate Zelent, Emily Rice, Rohan Makhecha, Clark Kingston FOUNDERS Kerry Chereskin, Lauren Christopherson, Julie Christopherson
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WOMEN’S FASHION 8 LET’S ROCK 10 PIONEER THE PRESENT 12 WES ANDERSON 15 PLEATED OUT 17 PEARL OF THE SEA 23 CRYSTAL D’LIGHT MEN’S FASHION 29 DIY YOUR DENIM 32 TEXTURED FORMALWEAR 34 STYLE INSPIRED BY NATURE 37 JAPENESE STREET STYLE HEALTH & BEAUTY
40 WRITTEN IN THE STARS 42 CLEAR SKIN FROM WITHIN 44 THE BROW FIX 45 YOUR MENTAL HEALTH 48 BARE THE BARRE
50 ETHEREAL GARDEN LIFESTYLE 56 PAPER PERSISTENCE 58 PASSION VS. PROMOTION 60 DISCONNECT TO RECONNECT 62 WORKING THE WORKPLACE
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Putting together Spring 2019 has been an incredible way to end our own personal journeys at Michigan State and, sadly, with VIM Magazine. We are so grateful for the opportunity to create and experience the amazing things VIM has and will continue to offer as students.
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It’s hard for us to believe this is our last print issue. This one in particular is incredibly special to us. The messages and images of VIM are constantly evolving, and we feel so proud to be a part of its evolution. We are diving into conversations VIM has yet to touch on that are extremely relevant and personal to our community and the society we live in today. For us, VIM is more than a student publication; it’s a chance to find your passion, your people, and 6
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sometimes even your career. Our goal has always been to make sure that every person who loves fashion, beauty, lifestyle or anything about the Spartan community is represented and a part of the publication process. From opening up the conversation on mental health to discussing trends from across the sea, this spring’s issue is tackling the difficult topics while staying true to its fashion-fueled roots. Providing this content has been an incredible opportunity for us.
With our own journeys in VIM Magazine, and throughout our time at Michigan State, we have learned, grown and evolved alongside our peers and seen the organization as a whole do the same. This issue would not be pushing boundaries and challenging norms if it wasn’t for the teams leading us to this point over the years. We are grateful for those who we have worked alongside, grown with, and who will be continuing to help VIM flourish in years to come. Thank you to the team we are so grateful to work with and to those who will continue to expand this amazing organization by evolving our content and development in the community. We cannot wait to see what is to come. Kara Dempsey and Zoey Berghoff
O M E N ’ S FA S H I O
Let s Rock
WRITER: MEGHAN PROVENZANO PHOTOGRHER: KAITLIN GRANT STYLIST: MACKENZIE MCDONELL MAKE UP: KATHRYN REMY CASTING: TORI TULLIO
Fashion and music are unquestionably tied together. Music has one of the largest influences on popular culture, and its effect on fashion is unrivaled. More specifically, the genre of rock and roll, has had a great impact on fashion trends beginning from its emergence in the 1950s. This new and liberating art form jolted America and stirred society’s spirits with its larger-than-life, fast beats and strums. As rock and roll has evolved through the decades, so has the fashion trends that come with the performances.
THE ’50s: “LET’S ROCK”
HOW ROCK MUSIC INSPIRES STYLE 8
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The king of rock and roll Elvis Presley infamously sported slick leather jackets, tight-fitting white tees and hiphugging trousers that set the tone in fashion for decades to come. Presley’s look was just as popular as his sound. He radiated the rock style by wearing flashy clothes, from intricately embellished jumpsuits and chained belts to gold studded blazers. Rock lovers, both men and women, can be seen copying Elvis’s look by greasing their hair and jamming out in bulky, tinted aviators.
THE ’60s: SUMMER OF LOV E
When you think of the ’60s, you probably picture peace signs and tie dye. The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and other rock and pop rock bands started to gain their fame. The late ’60s brought a hippy rock movement, dubbed the “Summer of Love,” that had a major influence on fashion and its future. The movement encouraged people to be more free-spirited when it came to clothing, and many fashion boundaries were broken with the emergence of loosefitting, lenient clothing marked with bright prints and rainbow patterns. This period is also when the iconic mini skirt and chunky platform shoes gained popularity.
THE ’70s: “SHOUT IT OUT LO U D ”
Another extremely influential and popular rock group KISS began creating music in the 1970s and quickly came to the forefront of the music industry. In the ’70s, everyone was seen rocking sequin bell bottoms; extremely short shorts, or “hot pants”; and layered denim. This rock period was named “The Punk Era,” with inspiration from innovative and expressive designer Vivian Westwood. The clothing she created featured safety pin accessories, bicycle chains on clothing and
spiked dog collars. This period also showcased iconic printed band tees that people fringed and personalized as well as outrageous makeup, cosmetic paint and teased hair.
THE ’80s: “HIT M E W I T H YO U R BEST S H OT ”
Who doesn’t love the ’80s! A huge rock and fashion influencer of the 1980s is none other than Pat Benatar. This iconic female rock and roll artist had a strong influence on the future of women in rock music, and her presence provoked her genuine admiration for femininity and female rights. Pat Benatar thrived in a time of big, bouncy hair; neon colors; sequins; leopard and zebra print; and beloved leg warmers. The 1980s also brought embellished denim jackets, hair scrunchies and belted spandex leotards.
oversized band tees that were often paired with plaid mini skirts, black sheer tights and lace-up heeled boots.
THE 2000s: GLITZ AND GLAM
It is not surprising that the evolution of rock and roll can be linked to Lady Gaga, a contemporary pop rock artist who is ranked number eight in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Gaga performs with a jaw-dropping stage presence, including risqué costumes and audacious songwriting. Her modern style depicts “Glam Rock” or “Glitter Rock.” In this type of rock genre, artists are seen wearing crystals, studs, crazy colors and edgy leather jackets. Artists can also be seen rocking embroidered stars, skulls and sky-high heels.
THE ’90s: “COME A S YO U A R E ”
The 1990s were about one thing and one thing only: grunge. Bands such as Nirvana and the Red Hot Chili Peppers adopted the grunge style, which fused elements of punk and heavy metal. Those bands began the grunge movement in fashion, sparking the trend for leather jackets, flannel shirts, fingerless fishnet gloves, army inspired coats and destroyed acid-wash jeans. Grunge fashion also included VIM Magazine
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WRITER: GINA NAVAROLI PHOTOGRAPHER: GEMMA DARR STYLIST: SARRAH ABUDAYEH MAKE UP: KATHRYN REMY CASTING: TORI TULLIO 10 VIM Magazine
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THE PRAIRIE DRESS You may want to raid your grandma’s archive of dresses and hop on the prairie dress trend this spring. Prairie dresses are back, and while we’re continuing to modernize old-fashioned standards for women, we can also modernize the old-fashioned wardrobe staple. Prairie dresses are modestly designed silhouettes with high necklines, floor-length hems and sleeves reaching the wrists. Many have balloon sleeves for extra flow, and some necklines have a decorative pelerine or collar. Although the construction of the silhouette is modest, it is not boring. The quirky prints, colors and textiles radiate an outré personality. The bohemian dress will make you look sweet and charming while making a statement. Not all prairie dresses are structured the same as there are different styles, including baby doll, bib, maxi and more. Some dresses can be more flattering with defined waistlines or hems reaching the knee to expose more skin. Baby doll style has a long, sheer hemline overlaying a
knee-length hemline; bib style features a vintage, ruffled collar; and maxi style has a hemline hitting the ankles with a fitted top while flowing at the bottom. Designer Batsheva Hay redefined sexy with the prairie dresses in her Spring 2019 collection. The collection featured the dress with mixed prints and various colors. In particular, Hay showcased a dress with a red gingham top and pink roses below the waistline and at the collar. The long-sleeved dress was styled underneath a shouldersleeved sky blue dress with a shorter hemline. Hay’s childlike, feminine dresses have been worn by celebrities such as Natalie Portman and Lena Dunham.
Springtime is your chance to replace your dull wardrobe with lighter hues. The air is fresher, birds are chirping and plants are blossoming. You’re finally able to let go of heavy layers and embrace lightweight dresses in lighter colors. Classic prairie dresses incorporate pastels, complex prints and trims with romantic lace and ruffled detailing. Try styling the whimsical dress with chunky sneakers, western boots or platforms with socks. Though prairie dresses were originally worn by pioneer women, the style has evolved and made a comeback. It may fall outside of your comfort zone, but like most trends, the more you see it, the more you’ll want to give it a shot.
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T H E FA M O U S D I R E C T O R ’ S I N F L U E N C E O N FA S H I O N
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WRITTER: KAYLA EFFNER PHOTOGRAPHER: NICOLE MA STYLIST: HALEY POAG & KIT HARMER MAKE UP: MORGAN LYNCH & DIANNE AVILA CASTING: ABIGAIL ROTHE & CAROLINE SEMLER
For young professionals, the work of well-known film director Wes Anderson serves as a beacon of creativity and modern cinematography. In the industry, he is known by many as an “auteur,” a term with roots in mid-20th century French cinema that describes a director with a heavy artistic hand and a recurring style or recognizable theme. Anderson, who debuted as a director in 1996 with the movie “Bottle Rocket,” quickly proved himself to fit the ticket perfectly. Anderson is known for his long tracking shots and symmetrical framing. In the past, he has admitted to being too particular with composition, sometimes
spending hours strategically placing props in the background of a set. Probably the first aspect of Anderson films that people think of, though, is his intricately designed color palettes. Viewers are often overwhelmed with his surreal pastel universes and bright, contrasting hues. Costume design has always been a crucial element of Anderson’s style of storytelling. From the beginning, his policy has been to never take a stitch of clothing from a rack. Anderson’s meticulous nature led to countless hours spent alongside costume designers, ensuring that every piece was perfectly crafted to suit his vision. In the end, his creativity and attention to detail paid off not only in the form of widespread recognition in the film industry but also in creating an unparalleled influence on fashion. Drawing from the timeless styles of the ’70s and ’80s, Anderson has created characters whose looks still take the runway today. Gwyneth Paltrow’s famous character in “The Royal Tenenbaums,” Margot Tenenbaum, has become an unforgettable name in fashion. Margot’s crisp blonde bob, hefty fur coat and essential Sweet Afton cigarette made the character iconic. Fourteen years after the film’s release, no less than six designers drew inspiration from Margot in their fall collections. Alongside brilliant costume designer Karen Patch, Anderson also built the defining nerd chic look from scratch. Audiences began recognizing this style when it prevailed with Max Fischer’s clean blue school VIM Magazine
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spotted in Fendi fur throughout the film. The degree to which his style has become entrenched in the commercial market goes to show its relevance to the modern consumer. His style has become so recognizable and sought after that it has led to an unprecedented merger between the film and fashion industries. In 2013, Anderson collaborated with Prada on a short film titled “Castello Cavalcanti,” and in 2016, he collaborated with H&M to create a holiday advertisement that featured a combination of Anderson’s signature style and the Swedish brand’s knitwear. The Wes Anderson look is inescapable. His designs are valued for both their visual appeal and symbolism. Anderson’s personality and views are translated into the look and feel of his films.
uniform and red beret in the 1998 film “Rushmore.” Uniforms and suits have taken many forms in Anderson films, ranging from the boy scouts in “Moonrise Kingdom” to the oceanographers in “The Life Aquatic.” This clean-cut aesthetic has left its mark on coming-of-age stories and has been used to appeal to a similar audience in more recent films, such as Greta Gerwig’s “Lady Bird.” Actor Saoirse Ronan, who starred in the film, also portrayed Agatha in “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” serving as a bridge to some of the more erratic styles worn in Anderson’s later work. A simple flannel suit or sun 14 VIM Magazine
dress is not what has earned Anderson’s costume design its fame. Characters clad in bold colors, layered patterns and eyecatching accessories are what set Anderson apart. Many of these looks were crafted with the help of another talented female costume designer, Milena Canonero. Eager to collaborate with fashion bigwigs, Anderson has also worked directly with fashion designers from the beginning. In 2007, Marc Jacobs designed the suits and luggage seen in “The Darjeeling Limited.” Prada provided some of its beautiful, leather-wrapped suitcases to be used in the production of “The Grand Budapest Hotel” in 2014, and multiple characters were
Viewers resonate with Anderson’s characters because they juxtapose a sense of melancholy and displacement with the bold, unblemished universe they are submerged in. As young people, we are surrounded by the expectation to be perfect. In our appearance, our careers, our social media presence and virtually everything else, we hold ourselves to unrealistic standards. Despite spending most of our time struggling to keep our head above the water, there is pressure to appear stylish and stress free. Anderson’s films have captured this phenomenon in a creative and culturally-relevant way. His costumes not only encourage social commentary but also make fashion statements that leave us all thirsty for more.
P L E AT E D
OUT
STYLISTS: EVANA CARUSO & HANNAH PACE WRITER: RI’AN JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHER: JENNA DICLEMENTE MAKE UP: MELISSA NICHOLS CASTING: TORI TULLIO
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Marilyn Monroe made the pleated A-line dress a fashion staple in the ’50s with her iconic photo standing atop a subway grate as her white, knife-pleated dress blew effortlessly toward her face. However, pleating became well-known some time before this. Ancient Egyptians used to pleat their garments by pouring eggs over linen and
allowing them3 to dry in the sun. At the time, pleats were seen as a symbol of power, a luxury reserved for kings and queens. Add in the lowmaintenance structure to the rich history and you can easily see why today’s designers have celebrated the versatile folds that exude an unmatched combo of elegance and ease by including them in their repertoire of styling tools. Although we’ve ditched the egg-in-the-sun method, pleats still radiate a luxe look today. Issey Miyake is the mastermind that modernized pleats in the ’90s with his Pleats Please collection. He used paper and heat to create the artistic folds, which paved the way for other designers to use the technique in their clothing. Pleating has since become a motif of elegance in the fashion world, and the intricate folds can be incorporated into one’s wardrobe with surprising ease. Practicality, functionality and wearability are key attributes
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of pleated garments. The folds vary in size, shape, texture and movement, and the different combinations of these features radiate unique vibes that can fit any style and work in virtually any outfit. Adding a pleated garment can quickly transform your outfit from simple to chic. For example, swapping your basic flounce skirt for one that includes lightweight knife pleats will add an elegant minimalist feel to your look. Collared shirts for the work day could be swapped with those that include fine accordion pleats along the sleeves or collar for added visual interest. An evening gown can be made haute with inverted pleats along the skirt. Also, mixing different modes of pleats is a bold, yet facile statement that could be done à la jackets and pants. This spring, in lieu of stocking up on the usual airy flounces and ruffles, make yourself feel like royalty by changing the game and adding some pleats.
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PHOTOGRAPHER: TARRON FIELDS MAKE UP: HANNAH KUTCHINSKI AND SAKINA ABEDI CASTING: CAMRYN CURETON
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O NNOR FECKOVI
C RY S TA L D ’ L I G H T
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is a very expressive
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confidence
power & beauty WILL HELP OTHERS EXPRESS THEMSELVES 26 VIM Magazine
STYLIST: HANNA DARNALL PHOTOGRAPHERS: GEMMA DARR & SARA SERYANI MAKE UP: CRYSTAL D’LIGHT VIM Magazine
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do yourself
DO WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY 28 VIM Magazine
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E N ’ S FAS H I O
D I Y YO U R
Vintage Levi’s, more commonly known as “dad jeans,” had a poor reputation years ago, but now they are perceived in a whole new light. The slightly fitted, awkward length and baby blue wash jeans that you never imagined you would wear are up on the rise. For the shorter guys, the rolled-up pant legs can also give you a unique look if the jeans don’t fit perfectly. Get the dust and dirt off those old jeans, even the uncropped, straight-leg jean for spring is a great start. A more beat up vintage-looking wash is even better if you want to achieve that full grunge status. What has also been preferred by many is a cropped-at-the-ankle look, so don’t worry if the jeans aren’t a perfect fit. 30 VIM Magazine
THE NEW& I M P R OV E D PA I N T S P L AT T E R T R E N D STYLIST: DWAYNE LAGRONE WRITER: CHRISTIAN OSTROWSKI PHOTOGRAPHER: NICOLE MA CASTING: BRIANNA ELIZALDE
Bring out some spare paint from the garage and give your jeans a dash or drench of color — whichever you prefer — to personalize. Either go wild with urgent flicks or be precise and go back in with a brush and mute the paint. You’ll know that no one else will have the same pair after a few minutes of painting. Take your denim and channel your inner Jackson Pollock. Pollock, a splatter painting legend, is a great inspiration with amazing color palettes. His work has been used as many backdrops for high fashion brands, and the fashion world truly accepts his work for his effortless talent but somehow unrepeatable pieces. From his pigment choices to his perfect execution of
timing, his work was undoubtedly a performance that was respected by high fashion designers, including Alexander McQueen, and brands, such as Dolce & Gabbana and Dior Homme. Don’t feel pressured to go wild with color, there are many possibilities to make subtle design choices like adding streaks of gold. A long-sleeved button up shirt is one of the easiest shirts to pair with the jeans, as it is minimal and timeless. Try buttoning the shirt all of the way up, or for a layer of texture and a flare of color, go with a classic graphic tee underneath. Either tuck your shirt into the jeans or play around with it untucked or half tucked, depending on how formal or casual you want to go. The jeans are your canvas, so let your imagination run free. There is no point in fitting in when you are custom made.
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of the week, a chunky sage green knit might show the detail of the material more than one in charcoal.
EXPERIMENT WITH TEXTURE WHEN D R ES S I N G TO IMPRESS
WRITER: MOLLY HARMON PHOTOGRAPHY: ALEC PLYMALE STYLE: BARAKA MACHARIA MAKE UP: KATHRYN REMY CASTING: BRIANNA ELIZALDE
How many awards season red carpets fly by with seas of monotonous tuxes and suits? Answer provided: too many. Men’s formalwear is created by minds who know that staying within the boundaries is not an option. A perfect way to combat the stereotypical noir suit and tie — Sorry, JT — is to incorporate an array of textures. Color can take that even further. As much as some fashion lovers proudly wear black almost every day
This past February, Dior introduced timeless wide leg pants and jackets made of wool and mohair, a yarn made from goat fur. However, the choice to use real fur is not necessary when introducing new textures into one’s wardrobe. The same kind of thick, full texture can be achieved with faux fur options. Pair faux fur with a patent leather loafer or even a loose, low-cut silk top. Pay TMZ enough or walk past the right celebrity-ridden restaurant in that fit, and you might need to thank this idea for your big break. Sabàto Russo also wowed Spring 2019 runway guests with silk coats and linen in his Japanese-inspired line. While silk and linen are already known to be a match made in fashion heaven, the pairing fits the goal of mixing textures to create cohesion. Silk portrays a lust for luxe, and linen harmoniously combats that with an easy going aura. Put them together and the result is magical. Textures show cleverness and fearlessness. It may be a risk, but who doesn’t love a little courage to accessorize an ensemble? VIM Magazine
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STYLE I N S P I R E D BY M O T H E R N AT U R E
rth
Starting from our roots is sometimes the best way to expand on new concepts and bring designs to life. For decades, designers have created pieces in a range of styles from bohemian influences to futuristic modern looks. Aside from the vast differences these collections have in comparison to each other, they can both share similar color schemes and tones. These tones have been inspired by the simplicity of the environment itself and have served as a timeless pallet for years. Earth tones began as the foundation for visual creative expression that is fashion. They opened the floodgates for louder and brighter colors to be manipulated in different collections throughout the years. Even through periods when muted colors such as these seemed to be on the outs, designers always circle back around to these cornerstone tones creating cutting edge collections with the simplest of colors. These tones are showcased across multiple creative expressions throughout the fashion industry, making these them possibly the most versatile across the board.
Polar opposite designers have chose to make these colors staple pieces for their collections. For example, Kanye West’s line YEEZY opts for a more modern, post-apocalyptic look. Incorporating tighter fighting clothes with loose, tattered layers along with using the earth toned theme for color. West’s line finds ways to create pieces that stand out using only neutral colors. On the other hand, brands such as Free People style their pieces and looks vastly different from the futuristic YEEZY line. They incorporate flowing and lightweight fabric to create little restriction from the clothing and use small, floral or geometric patterns. These pieces can be described to be exactly the opposite of the YEEZY pieces. These designers and brands can be credited to have found the versatility of these tones and have captured their raw essence amongst all aspects of the fashion spectrum. Along with the versatility of style, some tones compliment particular seasons. Earth tones can be manipulated to any seasonal period. Warmer and cooler undertones are brought out of each specific VIM Magazine
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season, still building off the muted colors as a basis. These have allowed for more sustainable collections throughout the industry, so that consumers can buy pieces that they can incorporate into any look regardless of the season.
With awareness of conserving natural resources and materials, in all aspects of life, being more prevalent than ever before sustainability is an attracting factor. These tones are not only in style but also help give peace of mind to the ethically conscious shopper. With the knowledge of the amount of waste that is produced by many big name brands, it comes with no shock that the use of these tones and their full-calendar season is certainly a more attractive perk to any fashion consumer looking to do their part in this conservation effort.
STYLISTS: AMY VLACHOS & ALI RASMUSSEN WRITER: MADISON WALSH PHOTOGRAPHER: NICOLE MA MAKE UP: MELISSA NICHOLS CASTING: BRIANNA ELIZALDE
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It is an interesting concept that these muted tones are as applicable to today’s consumer as they have been shown to be. Living in a world-wide society that promotes every aspect of standing out, these colors tell quite a different story. Bright and attention-catching aspects of life are promoted through every medium available to the average person. It would only be logical that fashion trends followed this same path. However, even with clothing being one of the most upfront and visually intriguing ways to promote one’s individualistic personality, earth tones could be assumed to have no place in fashion today. It is fascinating that from season to season, these underlying tones top any societal value. The way earth tones take on new roles in the fashion industry is revolutionary. No matter the brand or designer’s style, the versatility of these neutral tones is endless. Finding a place in fashion within a polar opposite-minded society, further proves that certain aspects of fashion are timeless and relevant. Using these tones to push pressing, current issues such as conservation and sustainability proves how impactful the fashion industry can be.
J A PA N E S E S T R E E T S T Y L E
F R O M T H E S T R E E T S O F T O K Y O T O N E W Y O R K FA S H I O N W E E K
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STYLIST: VANESSA HANNA WRITER: CLAIRE BALDERSON PHOTOGRAPHER: DEON NEVINS CASTING: CAMRYN CURETON
Japanese
street fashion is a culmination of local and Japanese brands, ranging from extreme avant-garde to retro hip-hop styles. In 2003, Tokyo’s underground club scene paved the way for hip-hop fashion in Japan with oversized clothes. One type of popular modern Japanese street fashion is Lolita, which contains many different themes and crosses multiple boundaries. The categories of Lolita fashion include gothic, which is heavily influenced from Eastern and Victorian Goth style; sweet, which includes childlike attire featuring fairy tale themes and baby animals; punk, an experimental style mixing hardcore looks; classic, which includes traditional business-like pieces and focuses
on light colors; and Kodona, which is considered “boy style,” influenced by Victorian boys clothing, such as prince pants. Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto and Comme de Garcons are considered three cornerstone brands that have influenced Japanese fashion since the early 1980s. Since Japanese street fashion is a mix of different brands and styles, there is a lot of room for collaboration between popular artists and designers to bring together limited edition looks. These looks emerged because of
the rise of a strong youth culture in Japan throughout the 1960s and 1970s. With such individualism comes a drive for new and unique looks, which is exactly what designer collaborations gave the people. Japanese street fashion has influenced not only Japan but also parts of the United States, beginning after World War II. The East and West Coasts of the United States, especially New York and Los Angeles, have been adapted the most to the mix-andmatch style. Harajuku is a form of Japanese street style that has found its way to the United States. However, in some instances it has been deemed a form of cultural appropriation. Some brands have done this style correctly, such as the Comme des Garçons, while some celebrities have received backlash for imitating Japanese culture, such as Gwen Stefani. Be aware that this style is less of a trend and more of an opportunity to draw inspiration and be creative. Since there is a largely diverse student body on MSU’s campus, it is only natural that fashion trends cross and morph into new styles. Since Japanese street style is newer to the United States, it is exciting for college students who are also finding themselves and experimenting with fashion. The style works well in the United States, especially on college campuses, because of how it combines different styles and brands. Japanese street style steered away from the concept of one brand owning the whole fashion industry and, instead, led to the creation of exciting, revolutionary fashion statements through diverse inspiration. Fashion is about pushing the limits and seeing what people can get away with, and crossing cultural boundaries is something that is much needed in the world. Meshing fashion is only the beginning of a bigger and better world, and Japanese street fashion is helping lead the way.
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E A LT H A N D B E A U T Y
I N T H E S TA R S
W R I T T E N
W H AT YO U R S I G N T E L L S YO U A B O U T YO U R B E A U T Y R O U T I N E Sometimes your sign knows you better than you know yourself, even when it comes to your beauty routine.
sense of adventure and optimism always keep you open to expanding your life experiences.
FIRE SIGNS: ARIES, L E O , S A G I T TA R I U S
Fire signs, per the name, are bold and warm spirits, so why not show that off in your beauty look? Lip products are a great way to add color, glam, or shine that draws attention. Go for the bold matte lip, pretty pink sheen or super sparkly gloss. It’s always been said that the perfect lipstick can boost your confidence tenfold, and it’s true. There’s so much that you want to do and try, fire signs, so make sure that you’re ready to take it all on with a stunning smile.
When you walk into a room, who does the attention get drawn to? Fire signs, of course! You have a dynamic lust for life that allows you to celebrate your interests and hobbies with passion and enthusiasm. Aries, you’re ambitious and motivated. You rarely hesitate to take action, thanks to your “go get ’em” attitude. Leo, you love a good spotlight and can sometimes come off as dramatic, but life would be so dull without your energy and zest. Sagittarius, your 40 VIM Magazine
AIR SIGNS: AQ UA R I U S , G E M I N I , LIBRA An environment filled with fresh ideas, deep thoughts and intellect belongs to you, air signs. You’re a wonderful conversationalist because of your flexibility in approaching topics with rationale and an open-minded, abstract mode of thinking. Aquarius, you pride yourself on being an eccentric person both inside and out, and you have the biggest humanitarian heart that encourages you to fight for all people. Gemini, you attract people with your wit and humor, and your social versatility allows you to be the life of the party while also having just as great of a time by yourself. Libra, you’re harmonious not only with your relationships but with your visual aesthetics as well, making you the perfect bearer of balance and art. Air signs are known for their unique perspectives and personalities, and they can pull off a unique beauty look as well — even colored eyeliner and mascara. The trend exists, but is not always sported in daily life, and with your distinctive personalities and ability to craft new looks, the pop of color on your eyes would brighten up your days. It’ll be a great conversation starter, and people will admire your individuality!
WAT E R S I G N S : CA N C E R, S C O RP I O, PISCES A key word pertaining to water signs is “intuitive.” You are the deep thinkers and the ones
who are most in touch with their senses. Those traits allow you to be receptive of others’ feelings, making you great companions. Water signs are always ready to listen, support and help make sense of the world around us. Cancer, you’re a natural leader who is generous and loyal, and sometimes you’re so spot-on about a situation that you might even be psychic. Scorpio, you may come off as intense upon initial contact, but that can be a positive thing considering your abilities to be honest, loving and genuine. Pisces, the world would be so cold without your empathy, romantic views and comforting presence. You may be considered the “old soul” of the zodiac signs, having a very healing and reassuring energy. Water signs go deep into their feelings while also maintaining an aura of mysteriousness. What’s the most fitting beauty look for a sign like that? Holographics. From highlighters to eyeshadow to body glitter and more, there is nothing more mesmerizing than the holographic sheen that yields so many different speckles of color upon a closer look. You’ll make us all stop and think about the beauty and mystery of life.
calming effect on others. Taurus, you’re anchored to your beliefs and value honesty. Like the symbolic Taurus bull, you are strong and resilient, which helps you in reaching your goals. Virgo, your curiosity fuels your love of learning and high intelligence, and your wry sense of humor always has your mutuals laughing. Capricorn, if anyone can climb the corporate ladder, it’s you, you equate success with happiness, and you’re organized and motivated enough to earn it.
WRITER: ALISHA UNGKULDEE PHOTOGRAPHER: SADIE LAYHER CASTING: CAROLINE SEMLER MAKE UP: MICHAELLA ANDERSON & DIANNE AVILA
The overall stability and work ethic of earth signs is vital to your ways of life. Earth signs, do you have a consistent skin care routine? This would allow you to take care of yourself each day before you go out and make things happen. Personalize the right moisturizer, serum and toner combination for yourself to apply each morning and evening, and don’t forget to treat yourself with the occasional face mask when you give yourself a welldeserved break!
EARTH SIGNS: TA U R U S , V I R G O , CAPRICORN Earth signs understand the importance of setting a solid foundation for yourself. After all, if we aren’t stable, how can we continue to grow and build our lives? You are the most grounded of the signs, and your presence tends to have a VIM Magazine
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The skin is the largest organ of the human body, and unfortunately, it is the one we tend to notice first. Perfect, glowy skin does not just mean a strict skin care routine, but actually begins from a healthy diet! Try incorporating these healthy foods that can benefit you from the inside and out: AV O C A D O S : Avocados are packed with the healthy fats that your skin craves. These fats leave your skin feeling naturally moisturized and flexible. It has also been shown that avocados protect your skin against UV damage. With the use of sunscreen and enough avocados, there is no need to worry about premature wrinkles. 42 VIM Magazine
WA L N U T S : Walnuts contain amazing fatty acids such as Omega-3 and Omega-6, which help keep your skin hydrated. The levels of these acids are higher in walnuts than any other nut. They also contain vitamin B, which is known to slow down the aging process. S W E E T P O TAT O E S : Sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene, which is an antioxidant that works with your skin cells to protect against sun exposure. If consumed enough, it is also said that beta-carotene can add a warmer, glowier appearance to your skin! BROCCOLI: Broccoli is an amazing staple that is full of zinc,
which helps prevent acne. In addition, it contains vitamins A and C, which restricts UV damage that creates wrinkles. Broccoli florets, in particular, contain sulforaphane, which may contain anti-skin cancer agents.
GREEN TEA: Green tea is a great drink for those who struggle with sunburns and redness. Daily consumption of green tea has been shown to diminish redness from sunburns and improve roughness and elasticity.
D A R K C H O C O L AT E : Chocolate is an amazing treat for both your taste buds and your health. Dark chocolate contains antioxidants that have been proven to improve skin texture and increase the skin’s thickness, hydration and blood flow.
Although these foods are known to contain agents that benefit your skin, it has also been proven to improve your overall health. There are many ways to incorporate these foods into your diet to keep your skin happy not just now but also in the future.
WRITER: STEFFANY KIM PHOTOGRAPHER: TARRON FIELDS
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H O W B RO W S BY A S H I S RE VO LU T I O N I Z I N G BROW WO RK Brows by Ash, or @_browsbyash on Instagram, has blown up with over 352,000 followers in the last two years. Her brow page is full of amazing before and after photos, and her work is known worldwide. She stays busy as an empowering, inspiring beauty influencer who challenges how we typically think of doing our brows.
gives Ash a platform to promote women’s empowerment and positivity in the industry. Although she is a beauty influencer, she’s also a self-made business woman. She encourages other working women to find a healthy work-life balance to avoid moments when their businesses take over their personal lives..
Ash discovered her talent at the age of 7 and began inspiring others when she launched her Instagram account two years ago, which has been growing by thousands of followers since. The continuous support from her social media following motivated her to continue to perfect her skills and begin developing new techniques to achieve a perfect set of brows.
“My clients come to me so that they look good and feel good,” Ash said. “If you’re not giving them positivity it counters why they’re coming to you.”
“I think that getting your brows done is self-care,” Ash said. “I feel that when you look good, you feel good and the world views you in the way you carry yourself just from how you feel.” Having such a large audience 44 VIM Magazine
Being in the public eye can be tough at times too, but Ash is very passionate about spreading positivity. She is aware of negative energy in the industry that brings so many beauty influencers down on the account of not wanting to fail anyone around them or their followers. “In this industry, I feel like there are no mistakes and no mess ups,” she said. “Your next move has to be 100 percent.”
WRITER: MICHELLE CLARKSON PHOTOGRAPHER: GEMMA DARR CASTING: TAYLOR MORAN
Ash specializes in threading brows and offers her clients a unique experience. Her technique for success in her clients is to train the brows to grow into the most natural shape possible. Her focus is obtaining evenness though precision. She has her clients come back to her every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on growth. Each client has a personalized treatment plan so that they get the best brow shape. “One time I had a client come to me all the way from Dubai,” said Ash. “She told me she had been following my work on Instagram for two years and that she was so excited to meet me. It’s so honoring to have people all over the world acknowledge my work.” Ash is looking forward to the future and with a rapidly growing client list, she is sure to stay busy. In the next five years, she hopes to open up a product care line to be sold all over the world.
YO U R M E N TA L H E A LT H A N D W H Y I T ’ S I M P O R TA N T, A C C E P TA B L E A N D N E C E S S A R Y T O TA L K A B O U T There are seven billion people living on our planet.. One in four of those seven billion people have likely been affected by some sort of mental health disorder. That means that nearly two billion people have struggled with their mental health at one point in their lives. While conversations about mental health are necessary, they are generally surrounded by a stigma. Feelings of shame and embarrassment may arise when discussing the topic. “There definitely is a lot of negative stigma around mental health, not just on college campuses but in the United States as a whole,” said Madeline Kelly, a senior at
Michigan State University. “I personally had a lot of shame and embarrassment when I started to feel the way I felt and I now realize how absurd that is. It’s something that should be talked about and no one should be afraid to speak their truth about it.”
our grade point averages to relationships and our careers. Most students don’t even realize when this becomes more than just minor anxiety and starts to take a much larger toll on their mental health.
“I have always suffered from an anxiety disorder, which is escalated by social and stressful life events, and in the recent year I have struggled with depression,” she said.
“I didn’t realize that I was fully depressed until I took a step back and looked at my behavior and how unlike myself I was,” Madeline said. “There were times this year when I literally couldn’t get out of bed, which is a really scary place to be, especially when you don’t know the reason why.”
As students, we endure a great deal of stress and feel anxious about countless things in our lives, from classes and
If you are struggling with your mental health, it is important that you find ways to cope. For Madeline, doing
Madeline is one of many students on campus who struggle with mental health.
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yoga, journaling, reading and seeing a counselor are some activities that have really helped to get her mental health back on track. Every person is different, however. While breathing exercises may break one person out of an anxiety attack, it may not work for someone else who is going through the same thing. That is why listening to your body and understanding yourself is imperative.
“It’s extremely important to take care of not just your mental health but yourself in general,” Madeline said. “I didn’t even realize the place I was in and how far I had slipped because I wasn’t paying attention to myself and my needs.” Everybody’s mental health is of equal importance. No one person’s experiences are more or less significant than another’s.
“Regardless if someone has mental health problems or not, we all have mental health,” said Alison Miner, the president and founder of MSU’s Mental Health Awareness Club. “It is so important to check in with yourself every now and again to analyze.” There are a countless number of student organizations and clubs on campus whose goal is to break the stigma around mental health and raise awareness. Apart from these student groups, the university offers many different options for students to address their mental health and to get help. “I would suggest MSU’s CAPS [Counseling and Psychiatric Services] as they have trained counselors that can provide support and information,” Alison said.
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CAPS, located in Olin Health Center, provides several crucial services to students and faculty members, including dropin/crisis screening, couples counseling, psychiatric services, information on how to help friends and more. They even offer a mobile app, MySSP, which can be used on any day at any time to provide counseling to MSU students. If you do not feel comfortable speaking to someone, or if you’re not sure what to make of your feelings and actions, CAPS offers an online selfassessment that can help you to better understand your mental health. The assessment is free and anonymous and provides participants with phone
numbers and resources that may be helpful to them. Regardless of how someone does it, opening up about mental health shows an incredible amount of strength and growth. It allows you to truly better yourself as a whole and is not embarrassing or shameful to talk about. One should be proud to talk about their mental health, because it is one step closer to being the best version of yourself that you could be.
WRITER: JESSICA HANNA PHOTOGRAPHER: JENNA DICLEMENTE MAKE UP: HANNAH KUTCHINSKI CASTING: CAROLINE SEMLER
“Your mental health is important,” Madeline said. “It is okay to talk about! Don’t be afraid to speak your truth, because it is the best medicine you will ever have.”
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supposed to happen in a day. Start small and add on. Keep going until you find what you like. Q : D O YO U H AV E A N Y A D V I C E F O R A N YO N E WA N T I N G T O T RY BA R R E ? Just be brave. It is hard to try new things, but you literally have nothing to lose. When people come in here, I want them to love the workout and feel welcomed because it is intimidating to try something new. In our studio, all you are going to find is people rooting for you. Everyone wants to help you.
BARE THE BARRE: INSIDE BARRE CODE EAST LANSING Barre is a one of a kind fitness practice that has hit the ground running in hopes of liberating fitness lovers with unique dance techniques. Dance has been incorporated in many workouts, yet barre takes a spin on the dance workout to provide one of the largest trends in the fitness world. From boutique studios to online classes and national franchises, barre has swept the workout gurus away and opened up a new place for all fitness lovers. In East Lansing, Michelle Gimbutis is the owner of Barre Code, a boutique barre gym located on Towbridge Road. Michelle sat down with VIM to give an inside look of her studio.
will not hear people talk about losing weight or calories — it is only about getting stronger. This message really sat with me. After I moved, I found myself driving a half hour to this gym because it was not just a gym.” Q : H O W D O YO U G E T I N T O B A R R E ? W H AT I S I T ? There are many classes offered here. Barre Code is about strength training. We work each muscle separately. We work your core, your feet, thighs and lower body with low weights and heavy repetitions. Anyone can try it.
Q: W H AT IS YO U R B AC KG RO U N D ? Not fitness, I graduated from MSU in 2005 with a Journalism degree. I was working in Marketing and PR until last summer.
Q : W H AT A R E T H E B E N E F I T S OF BARRE? Barre is low impact on your joints. With isometric movements, barre hits a lot of muscle groups that we don’t normally hit in other workouts, such as our outside hips. Barre gives you better alignment and posture over time. It targets every muscle group for an effective full-body workout.
Q: WHY BARRE CODE? I was a client in Metro Detroit, and I found that Barre Code made such a difference in my life, not just physically but mentally. Barre Code studio is different because we only focus on what you have to gain, not to lose. It is very empowering. You
Q : D O YO U H AV E A N Y A D V I C E ON MIND, B O DY, SOUL C O N N ECT I O N A N D W H E RE T O S TA R T ? Coming here for 50 minutes to get a workout in is essential to my mental and physical health. Start with baby steps — Rome wasn’t built in a day, you aren’t
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Barre Code also offers other classes including “Brawl,” an intense class that combines cardio kickboxing, it has been in Vogue magazine as one of the “best workouts in the country.” It offers TBC, or total body conditioning, classes which combine HIIT (high intensity interval training) cardio with strength training. Another Barre Code class is called “BaRestore extended,” which is 45 minutes of strength work followed by physical and mental restoration and 30 minutes of deep stretching and meditation. The last class offered is titled “NamaSLAY,” which is 45 minutes of cardio followed by physical and mental restoration and 30 minutes of deep stretching and mediation. Barre Code and TBC are intense workouts. You will feel the burn, but you are surrounded by supportive women who will push you to finish the rep. Barre Code is not the place where gym buffs go to pound weights and slug back protein drinks. The chic interior allows for an welcoming environment that definitely screams “girl boss!” Barre Code offers one week of classes for free. All you have to do is go to its website, www. TheBarreCode.com, or Instagram page, @thebarrecode, to make an account with MindBody and get yourself ready for a sweat sesh! Student discount memberships are offered as well. WRITER: MARCHELLA LEONE PHOTOGRAPHER: SHELBY BURNETT MAKE UP: KATHRYN REMY CASTING: MOLLY GUNDRY
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PHOTOGRAPHER: JILL GRETZINGER MAKE UP: HANNAH KUTCHINSKI & SAKINA ABEDI CASTING: CAMRYN CURETON
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I F EST Y L VIM Magazine
PAPER PERSISTENCE
I N A G R O W I N G D I G I TA L A G E WE’RE STILL PRINTING WRITER: ABBY JAROSZEWICS PHOTOGRAPHER: SHELBY BURNETT
It is no secret that we live in a digital age. More is possible with hand-held devices than there ever was during any other historical era. We live our lives through phones, laptops and televisions, and many paper commodities of twenty years ago have now been digitized. Maps, for example, are no longer large, cumbersome and foldable but rather accessible at the tips of our fingers through Apple or Google Maps. Calendars, which were considered necessary 56 VIM Magazine
for anything from tasktracking to remembering family birthdays, have now been converted into a pre-installed app on smartphones. Even books are now widely available electronically with the invention of e-books. A field that has been heavily impacted by the rise of the digital age is journalism. Since more and more people use the Internet as their primary news source, many local news outlets have converted to publicizing completely online. Some print publications, such
as the Chicago Sun Times were forced to file for reorganizational bankruptcy. Magazine publications have also begun focusing primarily on their digital publications. Some magazines like Teen Vogue have announced that they are going completely digital, and others, such as Self, whose final print issue was released in February of 2017, have already taken the step toward digitizing. Even VIM Magazine has published digital issues since its inception, including issues that are exclusively digital, which
was implemented during the fall of 2018. The Internet has ushered in a new kind of publication which exists completely online, Buzzfeed being the most successful. Other popular websites follow this format as well, such as The Huffington Post and Refinery29. Even academic journals such as the Journal of Popular Culture, published at Michigan State University, are almost completely published digitally. As more people turn to the Internet for almost all sources of entertainment, information and education, it would seem that there is less room for paper and print publications in this electronic world. And yet, paper seems to persist. We have not let it completely phase out of existence. Part of the reason for this seems to be that our brains have been hardwired to learn
through muscle memory; studies have shown that we learn better when we write something down compared to when we type it on our computers or phones. Because of this, students throughout high school and college largely still use notebooks to take notes by hand. Even though our phones and laptops now come with apps specifically for notetaking or reminders, we still continue to physically write things down on paper. Also, technology can be distracting. The most distracting things in a notebook are potential doodles, but with a phone or laptop, when the entire world rests at your fingertips, there are plenty of things vying for your attention.
even though it is not only possible but also easier to read books on a Kindle, some readers still show a preference toward physical books. They like the feel of a book in their hands, they like to be able to turn the pages themselves — some even crave the smell of paper books. These seem less like logical reasons and more like aesthetic choices for favoring paper over newfound technology. Perhaps we don’t want to let go of this classic convention. Is it nostalgia? Is it simply comfortability? Is it a desire for something real in this ever-increasing digital age? We may never know. But at least for now, paper will continue to persist.
It would be understandable if the reasoning for clinging to paper was purely scientific, but there seems to be something deeper at play. For example,
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Passion vs. PROMOTION
WRITERS: KENDYL KEYES & KARINA LLOYD
Throughout your entire life, you’re expected to have a plan. People want to know where you’re heading, what you’re doing and why you’re doing it, with expectations of success and achievement. However, for those preparing to enter the fashion industry, things don’t always work out that way. Young professionals endure a world of expectations that pressure them to select a major right out of the gate. However, the major they initially choose may not always be the one that they truly wish to study. This path may lead to later
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successes financially, but when asked if this is what they’re passionate about, the answer is often “no.” Students that have found a love for fashion may come to these crossroads. The fashion industry is filled with competition and hardships. Very few schools offer fashion-related majors, creating initial challenges for students. Many students are forced to complete majors that don’t directly correspond with their dreams. The industry is ruthless. Opportunities are available, but you have to remain open-minded and aware when looking for them. It is also important to realize
where the “hubs” of fashion are. New York, for example, is where the industry is thriving and where you could find a long-term job. Nowadays, societal pressures take a toll on people’s pursuit of their dreams in fashion. It is almost frowned upon to be caught up in a role that is not as reliable as others could be. Judgement can add a lot of unnecessary weight on students who are still struggling with figuring out what to do later in life. If a person is in a career they never truly aspired to be in, they often don’t enjoy their life as much as they could if they had pursued their dreams.
The choice to follow your dreams versus following what society insists is not simple, but those who are willing to take the risk often find that it is well worth it. The fashion industry is built upon experience and connections. It is not easy to break into, and you have to be strong-minded when entering. Realize that things will work out for you
in the future, regardless of the state you’re in now. There will be times when you become disheartened and may not be sure if it’s worth it, but if you are able to continue doing what you love for the rest of your life, you will know it is worth the struggle. It may not be as stable as other careers, but once you work the job
you’ve always dreamt of having, the journey there will be a mere issue of the past.
Things
WILL WORK OUT FOR YOU IN THE
Future
REGARDLESS OF THE STATE YOU’RE IN
Now
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DISCONNECT
TO R EC O N N ECT Detox: a word used in today’s modern society that’s typically associated with three-day juice cleanses and health detoxes. We invest in flattering apparel, test new beauty brands and products and try our best to make healthy choices — all because we value perception. The world we live in today emphasizes perfection. As you ponder the many areas of your life that could use a detoxification (maybe your food pantry or closet…), where does your social media fall on the list? Social media platforms were originally created as a way for humans to network with each other and build strong connections across the world, and with that comes new opportunities and growth. It cultivates a sense of community and inspiration. However, there are negative side effects as well. We often fall into the dangerous game of comparison
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and sometimes fail to remember that social media is filtered. A social media detox comes in many forms and depends on your lifestyle preferences and needs, but it’s important to always make it a personalized experience. Instead of focusing on how long your social media detox lasts, put an emphasis on how you spend the extra time and availability. It can be as simple as setting your phone down for thirty minutes every evening to read a chapter of the book that has been sitting on your nightstand for weeks. It could mean meeting your best friend for coffee one afternoon a week to catch up in person instead of over the phone. There is not one right answer when it comes to a social media detox — do what feels right for you. It is part of our human nature to desire belonging. As we search for our place
in society, we compare ourselves to others. It is challenging to differentiate between reality and fabrication, and many fall into the dangerous trap of comparison and insecurity. A social media detox forces you to let go of the staged photos and comments and focus on what is true: yourself and your relationships to those around you. Unfortunately, we cannot control social media, but we can control what we see on social media. Transform your feed into one that makes you smile whenever you log on, even if that means unfollowing a few accounts that may bring you discomfort or jealousy. In fact, we should embrace it — use social media as a tool for creativity, inspiration and opportunity. Disconnect to reconnect.
C LO S I N G T H E APPS AND C O N N ECT I N G WITH THE WORLD A R O U N D YO U .
STYLIST: BELÉN PILAR WRITER: CLAIRE RYAN PHOTOGRAPHER: SADIE LAYHER MAKE UP: DIANNE AVILA & MORGAN LYNCH CASTING: MOLLY GUNDRY
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EXPRESSING YO U R S E L F T H R O U G H FA S H I O N IN THE OFFICE College is a time of selfdiscovery on the road to your professional aspirations, but what happens after you graduate? How do you continue to express yourself while feeling forced to limit your attire to blazers, dress pants and button-ups? Simple, you find new ways to express yourself. Initially, jobs are all about first impressions. It’s important to dress professionally, but it’s also important to feel comfortable and confident in who you are. Fashion is one of the easiest ways to express yourself, and it still reigns true in the workplace. When planning your professional wardrobe, it’s crucial to keep in mind that your choices should be trendy, practical and representative of who you are. There’s nothing more important than dressing in a way that makes you comfortable while still ensuring you adhere to your professional environment. Fashion provides an outlet for us to communicate who we are, and VIM Magazine is here to provide some advice along the way!
B E YO U R S E L F
Express your style through your personality and what makes you unique. You were hired for a reason — don’t be afraid to embrace what’s authentic to you. Sometimes this can be a simple addition of accessories to your workplace outfit, but more often than not, it comes from dressing in a way that represents your best sense of self. VIM Magazine
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necessarily for an interview. Wear what makes you, you, but don’t stretch it.
BE CONFIDENT
Always be sure to wear what makes you feel like your best self; not only on the outside, but on the inside. It’s as simple as our favorite saying, “look good, feel good, do good.” When we look confident, we feel confident. Nothing feels quite better than putting on an outfit that represents who you are. If one day you want to feel chic, so be it. Wear whatever makes you feel powerful. Have a good head on your shoulders and be ready to tackle the day.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS A R E E V E RY T H I N G
BE PROFESSIONAL
Be professional and always put your best self forward. Do your research on the workplace culture and dress appropriately. Always know what you’re getting yourself into. When you know the culture of your work environment, don’t let that scare you into holding back from expressing yourself. Just be mindful.
BE P RACT I CA L
If you’re working a job where you’re on your feet, stilettos sadly aren’t going to be your best friend. Instead, spend the extra money on a comfy yet chic pair of shoes to go with your wardrobe. Make it a statement. Think about your color scheme — neon is good on the beach, but not 64 VIM Magazine
The first impression you make is the most important one. Your resume got you in the door, but your sense of self is what will get you hired. In the midst of preparing for your first day, or your crucial interview, don’t forget the little things. Yes, we love a good clothing statement, but never forget about your hair. Pretty, professional and polished, is best for both men and woman. Don’t forget to adhere to the standards set in the office. Will you be working in an office with business-casual attire? Does your office have a set dress code? These are important things to research before starting a new position.
DON’T BREAK THE BANK
Starting your first job is a big transition, and money ultimately becomes a leading factor of consideration when it comes to picking your workplace wardrobe. Picking trendy and stylish pieces doesn’t need to break the bank. Try finding a signature piece that can tie into your
everyday look. Creating a budget, finding new ways to wear pieces you already own and spicing up your look with fun accessories are some easy ways to save money on your look during your transition into the professional world. Taking the time to reflect back on who you are and what you are doing is more important than anything else. Ask yourself from time to time, am I truly portraying to the world who I am as a person? Am I holding back because I am stuck in a norm of black blazers on black dress pants? There is a Coco Chanel quote that is worth reminiscing upon: “Dress shabbily and they will remember the dress; dress impeccably and they will remember the woman.” Fashion speaks to people about who you are as a person. It is an instant language. People in the workplace will respect you for being polished yet individualistic. Fashion, and the way that you choose to present it, whether it be in your clothing, hair, accessories or shoes, is a way to be remembered. First impressions are key. Be confident in your look. You are what you wear, so own your look. STYLISTS: KATIE KALASS & HALEY KLEIN WRITERS: KATIE KALASS & HALEY KLEIN PHOTOGRAPHERS: DEON NEVINS & JACK GALLAGHER MAKE UP: KATHRYN REMY CASTING: MOLLY GUNDRY
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Go Green, Go Hands Free
On September 19, 2016, Mitchel Kiefer was tragically killed in an auto accident caused by a distracted driver. Founded to honor Mitchel’s legacy, the mission of the Kiefer Foundation is to end distracted driving and all associated traffic deaths and injuries. Efforts from our three pillars will help support our mission.
The Hands Free Bill...
would implement stricter penalties for cell phone use while driving including social media post as well as calls and text that do not use hands free technology.
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#takethepledge