The Eras Issue by W27 Newspaper

“ITS NOT A PHASE MOM”

R O T I D

SEE SEEYOU YOUNEXT NEXTYEAR YEARFIT FIT

R E TT

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H T M

O R F

The first phase I remember myself going through was in good old middle school. My “punk rock(ish)” phase, where I was determined to listen to anything but the Motown and soul my parents played around the house. I begged my Moma to buy my two records that sealed my fate as a “teenage dirtbag baby” or whatever I thought it was. I retired my Songs in the Key of Life record and blasted my Dookie by Green Day and Let It Bleed by The Rolling Stones on vinyl. In my head, I thought it was different — some form of taking control, a rebellion of sorts. This was all, of course, before I realized I loved the music I thought was so different for the same reasons. Classic rock had the same backup singers I heard on gospel and Motown tracks, and punk shared a lot of the same chord progressions. It was never really a rebellion. As I became more self-aware, it was interesting to see the cyclic nature of existence. Recent eras have been defined by “hot girl” and “lucky girl,” but I am constantly curious about the experiences of those around me. So I asked the W27 writers to think about the eras they encountered. I wondered what trends and fads they witnessed? They did exactly that. In an age defined by chronic online presence, there’s so much to absorb and so much to overlook.

Contributors Writers Amayah Meas Alisha Singh Gabriella Cafarelli Kaili Woop Sarah Galvin Haneen Elmeswari Victoria Mauceri Nicholas Alexis Jenny Lu Adrian Gonzalez Carolina Wu Chen Lakshya Lodha Niamh Sansom

I’d like to thank all of the W27 team and contributors for breathing life into these pages and taking the time to think and write stories about the way they encounter life. To you, our readers, I extend an invitation. Immerse yourself in the anecdotes woven within these pages and find yourself in the bits of life in this paper. You’ll learn something, you’ll love something, and you’ll connect with something. This issue is a love letter to the eras and phases that punctuate our lives. And remember, it’s not a phase, Mom. Sincerely, Lonnie Brown

Artists & Graphic Designers Cheyenne Syrek Adriana Bolaños Jessica Ehrenfeld Aleksey Nisenboym Isaias Nunez Jessica Lyle Katherine Gibbons Briana Cortese Danielle Bilello Seonhee (Gloria) Lee Roxenne Contreras Bonnie Wong Ana Tejeda Jacob Laczkowski Kaili Woop Amber Brewer Norberto Perez Anamika Aggarwal

IT’SNOT NOTAAPHASE PHASE IT’S

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CULTURE NEW HAIR NEW YOU THE RISING THRIFT ERA AI ERA IN AND OUT OF INDIA UPCYCLINGTHE ETHICAL ALTERNATIVE

COMMENTARY MY NYC ERA IS ALMOST OVER ... WHAT NOW? AN ERA OF ERAS -WHAT YOUR ERA SAYS ABOUT YOU FIT BOXING CLUB WHY FEMININE RAGE IS HERE TO STAY THE INVISIBLE WALL- CONFRONTING THE LACK OF DIVERSITY IN FINANCE IS THIS THE END OF AN ERA? THE ERA OF CLIMATE CHANGE WANT. NEED. DESIRE

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THE ETHICAL ALTERNATIVE BY AMAYAH MEAS

early everything we consume is flooded with discourse around fashion. The topic is multifaceted, with many sides claiming that there is no such thing as ethical consumption under capitalism. With social media trends like clothing hauls and outfit recs, there is a pressure to own fashion forward clothing, and a stigma exists around outfit repetition though this is something done regularly offline. There’s also an added layer of pressure to post consistently in order to maximize the algorithm and become a fashion influencer. Brands are perpetuating this notion by repeatedly coming out with new designs, while influencers and advertisements are constantly shoved down our throats. The demand for cheap and trendy clothes is the result of a culture dominated by overconsumption, and frankly, we’ve had enough

ENTERING A DETOX ERA

The influx of micro trends has caused a collective shift in consumer preferences. People crave simplicity and lucidity in an oversaturated industry where it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and eventually bored as new trends come and go. A creative way that individuals have avoided this situation is by upcycling: a unique, sustainable, and affordable way to turn used materials into new garments and accessories. One in particular is FIT Footwear and Accessories Design 2022 alumna Giselle Habert (@gisessories), a Brooklyn native with Middle Eastern roots who designs streetwear inspired accessories and the occasional garment. Her design process is guided by a conscious effort to produce sustainably while being aware of how much waste goes into the process of creating a product. Instead of tossing a striped tablecloth lying around her house, Habert repurposed it into a full look consisting of a short sleeve top, a mini skirt with slits, a headband, a peplum belt, and a drawstring pouch with scrap lace appliqué.

ILLUSTRATED BY: ALEKSEY NISENBOYM GRAPHIC DESIGN BY: ISAIAS NUNEZ

Designer: Invanity Model: Sofia Skalada Photographer: Maya Seri

Designer: Invanity Model: Nadia Sobczak Photographer: Lauren Clements

IT’S NOT A PHASE

“My inspiration was how versatile one print can be, and how it can be worn in so many ways. It really shows how much can be done with one material”,she says. Habert’s tips

on reducing waste include using recycled materials,repurposing, being thrifty, and avoiding outsourcing. Another brand that values authenticity and sustainability is Invanity (@invanityohio), founded by James Brentson who works with his girlfriend Lola Nauman, a junior at FIT studying Fashion Business Management and Entrepreneurship, to make original designs. In 2020, Brentson started screen printing designs on thrifted tees. He was gifted a sewing machine by his mother, who taught him how to make his first pair of elastic waist pants. Brentson and Nauman also buy and sell vintage, and always see cool secondhand fabrics while thrifting and sourcing. This inspired him to start making more pants, and Invanity has since gained a lot of positive feedback. “Over the past couple

years, I’ve been working on my craftsmanship and trying out local sourcing, pattern making, and experimentation with different fabrics. But, I never would have known how much I really enjoyed making garments if it wasn’t for upcycling,” says Brentson. Outstanding projects from Invanity’s portfolio include their signature tapestry garments and sets made from old potato sacks.

Although it suffers under an inescapable capitalist regime, fashion is a celebration of sartorial expression that brings people together. Consuming responsibly should be encouraged, taught, and practiced. We as consumers and fashion connoisseurs should actively be looking for ways to contribute to a circular economy. Ultimately, while upcycling is a great way to express creativity and have original designs, the most sustainable and accessible option for everyone to practice is to just BUY LESS.

Designer: Giselle Habert Model: Arayna Goodman

Designer: Giselle Habert Model: Chloe Jemal

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A New Era: Indian Fashion on the Global Stage

h centut 6 1 e h t panies in brics India Com rance of Indian fa e appea producers Th . e y il r t h x g e t in S beropean By Alisha upset Eu Chintz fabric even e nc ith Indian n in Fra w io t c s a ie e r il in h fam the Britis Raj, royal g banned h h in ic is h it e r w r B e r h e e h ew , aft wn During t for Europ nd Britain arket with their o a d e fl g in ia d d n lu has inc he m across I h society, flooded t r dynamic s e ig h w la o a d p e h r t is r e t u ner s. Th Kap they en imitation pean desig s, o Karam of f r o s u s l E e r c a h e in it P r w sign he “ one P continued iques, de nown as t n f k h o e c g e m t a in l c h e e t who b and clo g textil he globa t y in r s le u m e o w r f o je r e Eu ttes at India”. Th enamored d silhoue credit or context n n e a m o e k w li l a ut he these roya es and designers uth witho rl Lagerfeld used t o s s s t e li c ia a Prin tion 12, K pean soc mented in ferring will. In 20 bay Pre-Fall collec u c o d s a re om y he which w f a countr l gue article collec- Paris to B o o V n 5 io 3 is 9 1 v goa est y his Karam’s visit. His relli’s new at some to portra o a t p d ia e h r c e S h t to Elsa f Europenever bo to see th o d d a a e le h il id r e h t h in as sh t ally tion. “I w to establi cing Indiwere actu u s s a d r o w e r k p a r e r a m e s y s b is y s of the dre models th the an dominance ch atelier n w e e r n F ir in e h t re in anship spired for saris I wo incess. an craftsm y dismissing it. e h t f o on pr iall by some een comm wrote the nd essent b a ,” s 4 a 3 h h 9 c 1 u it f s , o s s ion ner 1980 summer pean fash ince, desig xander Since the o s r s u e E d a r c e jo ost ma In the d nt, Ale finishing e m e r u il r t a o x f L e t t e e v Sain ourc s ha as Yves keep the less other es to outs t o s t n u t u o r o h o c ff d e n n e ,a Asia e th McQueen veral gen ted South ndia wher e I ia s r o t p d e o r c s u p e t d p t a e pro s. culturally niques, and silhou alive has d artisan t le r il a k s t r h ly a c h p e e f hig textiles, t k while playing a they hav rations o s e e d , a r c r e e v o d e w or How in their owever, f otect the erialism. r H p p r e im o m n a it r c d e be cre in West teby India’’ efused to d r e ir s p s s hat are in e t r in “ d n , a i 2 h 2 m c s 0 a 2 s ft in cra bya e” with Sa Met very their success. The r ia d e n h I t r m o f o r a “f all l to ha Poonaw aurav Gupta gra Fall Show s a e t r a P N r g io G in g t D di B wearin or the Gram- cen mbai may mark Gala, Car f couture t in Mu rn a d e g ir in p w s o in this patte sh a in r sarih ift is h s M a l n ecRahu xploitatio eek. This r e mys, and W e r f u t o u sian te Co n Paris Hau he role of South A e and extractio th of t e ognition anship on r- or may just b m s ft a r c na nd fashion a is part of a larger her Eurot o n a g ge hiftin ry global sta tion and s a iz pean luxu n lo o c e d f o rative use silks, ho namics. power dy lready exporting ina s a India wa rics, and pashm ob fab pe’s true cotton o r u E , r e v owe gan abroad, h abrics be f e s e h t ith d session w itative an lo p x e e th through Vasco de h it w e d a violent tr e following East th Gama and

Illustration by Jessica Lyle Graphic Design by Cheyenne Syrek 6

IT’S NOT A PHASE

moving to create a stronger foothold in the country. India is the world’s fastest-growing economy and is aiming to be the third largest by 2030 according to CNBC. With no shortage of millionaires and a highly aspirational society, foreign luxury brands have been more active in the market for some years now with Louis Vuitton’s exclusive Rani Pink shoe collection and Bulgari creating their own Mangalsutra for Indian brides. Before the current era of cultural appreciation, there were many famous instances of cultural appropriation in Western fashion on all levels. The Vogue Archives feature many examples, including a 2005 write up about how Marchesa first rose to fame by using “fabrics inspired by the Far East and dresses with all the sexiness of the sari” (Vogue March 2005, 322). Yves Saint Laurent’s actions were immortalized in the exhibition Yves Saint Laurent: Dreams of the Orient in which his delivery of “a very personal vision of Asia” through his collections is flaunted. He created India-inspired collections three times in his career: including his first-ever collection for his namesake label in 1962; again in 1982; and his final collection in 2002. John Galliano and Jean Paul Gaultier have built entire careers off cultural theft with a September 2000 Guardian article citing their work as the reason why the West doesn’t pay attention to Indian designers. These designs not only exoticized and fetishized India, but the designers showcased ownership over silhouettes and techniques for which they had no credibility and no right to do so. With the largest diaspora in the world and several cultural exports, it was only a matter of time before India’s own designers would be aiming to go international with the help of conglomerate backing. What has made this move successful for brands such as Sabyasachi is the mainstreaming of conversations around cultural appropriation, craftsmanship, quality, and a more open-minded global consumer. For Sabyasachi Mukherjee, the approach to bringing Indian fashion to the world lies in the fact that when people are buying from Indian designers and supporting Indian artisans, they are appreciating rather than appropriating. Though the conversation around how to address cultural appropriation is far more complex than this, it is a simple way to address an exciting time in South Asian fashion on the global stage.

FIT FIT SEEWELCOME YOU NEXTTO YEAR

By Gabriella Cafarelli

Hair is the window to the soul. We change our hair color, style, and length to fit our personality, or sometimes our vibe at the time. We may change our hair regularly, or never at all, but one thing is for sure - it reflects us. Whether we are in our post-break up era, hot girl era, or rebelling-against-our-parents era, we find ourselves through our hair. Especially during the beginning of quarantine, many people found themselves through their hair evolution. I tried many hairstyles of my own, including curly bangs and pink streaks. But what do these hairstyle changes say about us? From first glance, people may assume characteristics and personalities. Did he just graduate from school? Is she having an identity crisis? Did they mean for their hair to be that blue?

While it may scare some people to have these assumptions made, I find it fun. After all, assumptions will be made regardless! These changing hairstyles can be like an alter ego (I have two: a blondie named Ashlynn and a blue-haired queen named Sapphire), and they can bring us confidence, strength, and a sense of anonymity. We have the freedom to wear a slicked back bun to have a Bella Hadid moment, or the ultimate Dennis Rodman “Rainbow Road.” A modified version of us based on our hair can be the result of a horrible situation, an amazing experience, or a fun time with the besties. Sometimes a big hairstyle change post-break up can save us. It’s a chance to find yourself while in your single era, and grieve who you once were.

Illustrated by Katharine Gibbons Graphic Design by Briana Cortese

Or, it can be the perfect blow-out after landing your first big job. It’s a reward for your achievements and a boost of self-esteem. My personal favorite is the midnight CVS run for a cheap hair dye so you can dye your hair red in the bathtub at your bestie’s house. Moments like this are a bonding experience, even if the dye burns your scalp and stains your hands. A new haircut or color can give you a fresh start, boost your confidence, and completely change your vibe. Stepping out of your comfort “hairzone” and taking a risk can make you feel empowered. So, get the big “chop” you’ve been dreaming about, experiment with bold colors, and don’t be afraid to find a new version of you.

AI Era_ Era_ AI

By Kaili Woop

Graphic Design by Danielle Bilello

“ I think ai can be either

really good or really bad, especially if it takes away our creativity by replacing it. But I think it can be good because it’s fast, does tedious works for us, and allows us to work less hard and focus on what’s more important.

“

Artificial Intelligence has been on the rise and invading every area of life in various ways. AI has brought about many positive changes to different industries, but at what point will we stop allowing this technology to replace our originality, creativity, and hard work?

I conducted an anonymous survey on AI related questions. FIT students that participated in this survey have majors in Fine Arts, Illustration, Advertising and Marketing Communications, Fashion Business Management, Communication Design and Film and Media. Of those students, 68.4% used AI. More than half of those who have AI is programmed to perform used AI like it. many tasks: write papers, generate art from key words and styles, and even create lyrics for a song. A variety AI is beneficial to complete tasks of AI apps have been developed more efficiently, making the workload to create art within a few seconds. for people smaller. A lot of industries These features are great when it comes would benefit from this technology. to brainstorming ideas, but overall Survey participants believe that the is unethical to use as your own industries that would benefit the original content. most include technology, gaming, marketing, education, manufacturing, and sciences. These industries include An app that has caused quite the a lot of tedious details that could controversy on social media is the easily be done with technology, which AI app, Lensa. This app allows users would give more time for employees to to upload selfies that convert to focus on the more important elements avatars with the help of AI of their job. technology. This has brought major concern amongst users because the app utilizes styles and techniques The rise of AI may decrease the from artists when selecting certain time spent on tasks to such a drastic extent that the technology will replace filters for the avatars. many jobs. All of the survey participants believe that creative Another example is from the industries will suffer from the rapid Instagram account @successowner. growth of using Artificial Intelligence. There is a video demonstrating someone Participants listed industries such using a 3D printer to “handwrite” as graphic design, fine arts, fashion, a homework assignment that Chat literature and entertainment that GPT wrote. This makes us question is would endure hardship. this plagiarism? Should we be reevaluating the education system? Are we really allowing ourselves to become even more lazy?

Illustration by Seonhee Lee

t -

IT’S NOT A PHASE

Despite the outcome of the survey, I believe that AI will serve more as a tool in the creative industries. I think there should be a limit to how much we rely on this technology, especially if it creates things that do not look like our own. The bigger problem is, how would we know if something is not original if someone uses AI from the start? When it specifically comes to the Fine Arts industry, AI art could never replace the human qualities of traditional art. Every human approaches the same subject matter, medium and style differently by using their own intellect to support their decisions. AI lacks that human quality since it is programmed to do specific tasks, making it impossible to replace the imagination and creativity that artists possess. Overall, AI is a useful tool, but should not replace our own efforts to create. The rise of this technology will create more issues in terms of detecting plagiarism. How does this affect the approach to assignments? Where do you think we will go from here?

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The Rising By Sarah Galvin

Thrift Era

ithin the past few years and especially in the recent 6-12 months, thrifting has become increasingly popular among younger people. This skyrocket in popularity has created a new normalized view towards second-hand shopping, making fashion more affordable and accessible than ever before.

Although thrifting seems like a no-brainer for the future of shopping, there are cons that come along with it. The main con preventing this from becoming a primary way to consume is convenience, it is not nearly as easy as going to a store you know you like and know your size in to grab a shirt or pair of jeans. This means that big retail stores will stay relevant and always have consistent consumers.

In terms of why this major uproar has occurred, there are two primary reasons: first is the affordable price point of second-hand shopping, and second is the sustainability of buying these clothes. It goes without saying that previously worn clothes would be priced lower than their original retail price, this is beneficial for many as it especially caters to those in college who are on a budget.

Thus, although waste in terms of clothes in landfills may decrease, water and energy waste for clothing production will likely stay the same. Additionally something to keep in mind when it comes to thrifting is the original intent, meaning that second-hand shopping was initially intended for those who could not afford to buy retail-price clothes. This means that having those who can afford high-end clothing shopping at thrift stores, may drive prices up and therefore make it so the intended demographic is no longer able to shop there.

As for sustainability, buying clothes that have been produced already and giving them another life, putting them back into the cycle rather than allowing them to go to landfills is the main way we lessen waste. For long-term benefits: as people shop more at thrift stores, the manufacturing of retail clothes will slow and therefore produce less water and energy waste.

Second-hand shopping can be a great tool and way to prevent waste. But keeping this habit responsible is most important. So, here are just a few ways to keep thrifting accessible to everyone who participates. First, keep the cycles going, meaning buying second-hand clothes. Then, continue to donate or resell these pieces or other pieces in your closet, allowing supply to stay high. Next shop on Depop, Thredup, Poshmark, etc. This doesn’t mean you can never go to a physical thrift store again. Just that shopping on these sites lets the thrift stores stay stocked and keep low prices. Lastly, leave the necessities for those who need them, for example, if you can afford to spend $200 at Zara, then you can afford a new winter jacket, so leave the puffers and winter weather essentials at the thrift store for those who need them. Thrifting is a great way to give old clothes a new life, and it makes fashion more accessible to everyone!

Illustration by Roxenne Contreras Graphic Design by Adriana Bolaños

IT’S NOT A PHASE IT’S NOT A PHASE

By Haneen Elmeswari

ories in the city came from crossing off and everyone that it's ok to break promplaces on my ever-growing NYC bucket ises sometimes. When it doesn’t serve you or your needs, or if you just made it The idea of New York, with its grotesque list. out of spite, it's ok to let it go. The social beauty, culture, speed, and ambition, is what pulled me into the city. It only took Just walking down the street started to fill standard is that promises are forever, and a couple of movies, with the same plot of a me with a sense of comfort and nostalgia. that breaking them classifies as some sort writer making it big in the city, to convince Reality checks – that I was going to school of treason, but I find that counterproducme that this is the place I would thrive. I in Manhattan, that I worked hard to get tive. could finally grow up into that confident, here and I deserve it – became a part of my cut throat, bulldozing individual I had al- daily routine. I encouraged myself to join Your main purpose in life is to grow, and clubs and try new things, and slowly grew promises hold you back from that. I used ways fantasized about becoming. my passions and hobbies. Writing has now to be able to confidently say that “I have So while being locked in our homes, become a daily part of my life and success, the next ten years of my life planned out,” keeping safe from an infectious disease, I and I’ve gotten to be published a few times. like it was some sort of accomplishment. That way of thinking held me back from started to carve out my future. While our generation lived through one of the most Now I’m taking a moment, as a 2024 grad- trying new things and making beautiful uncertain times in history, I made one of uate, to ask myself “what's next?” I made memories. As soon as I let that go, I was the biggest changes in my life. I left my a promise that after graduation I would able to find new passions, ambitions, and small town where everyone knew every- stay in the city. I had made a commitment friends. one, for a city four hours away, with no to this place and I was going to follow family and no connections. I had only been through. But I have to ask myself, is that I want you to take comfort in knowing there once before, when I was eight. Now, still wise? In the state of the world, my that I am the most type A individual you mental health, and my ambitions, where will ever meet. On any given day I know ten years later, I was going to live there. is the best place for me to be? Is it even exactly what I’m going to be doing at every My first month was painful. I felt intimi- possible for me to stay? Am I digging my hour of the day. I’ve planned out almost every step of my journey thus far. But I can dated by the streets, like I had no right to own grave here? confidently and proudly admit that I have be there, that I was always in the way, and that I would be assaulted or yelled at at any Oftentimes you only hear people talking no idea what my next era will look like. moment. I was missing my family and my about three main transitions in life: the friends, and I was contemplating transfer- early life crisis, transition to the mid-life If I could go back to 13 year old me and tell crisis, to finally a crisis in old age. How- her we ended up in New York, she would ring for a few weeks. ever, I’m finding that I face some sort of laugh in my face. That goes to say we can’t I started exploring the city to find some crisis everyday. I have a pattern of prom- fully predict the future. If there was one sort of solace amidst the chaos I had just ising myself I would do something in the thing I could change in my time here, it's thrown myself into. It slowly became my future, and if I don't follow through, I’ve that I wish I paused. I wish I took the long way home, took more deep breaths, and own expedition, one filled with coffee somehow failed. enjoyed the moment just a little bit longer. shops, bookstores, museums, and new neighborhoods. Some of my best mem- I want to take a second to remind myself

Illustration by Bonnie Wong Graphic Design by Briana Cortese

Illustration by Ana Tejeda

WELCOME TO FITFIT SEE YOU NEXT YEAR

Graphic Design by Cheyenne Syrek

IT’SIT’S NOTNOT A PHASE A PHASE

By Victoria Mauceri As a native New Yorker I have noticed that more and more Starbucks, Dunkin Doughnuts, and various fast food chains have been popping up all around my neighborhood and I started to wonder if this has been occurring all over New York City. For context, I live in the borough of Queens and on the border of Maspeth, Middle Village, and Corona. Restaurants and small business is the one thing that New York City thrives upon and are a part of the New York City culture. Since the COVID-19 pandemic more businesses have been disappearing as more commercialized businesses have been moving in. If this is to continue the culture of New York City could change as we know it, but the good thing is there are plenty of things we can do to make sure that local businesses can continue to thrive.

Here is a list of a few steps that everyone can take to support more small businesses: 1. Do a Google search of the local businesses near you 2. Avoid going to chain restaurants 3. Shop at local fruit stands when you can 4. Look to sites like Etsy to shop for certain products 5. Walk around your neighborhood and gather takeout menus of the local restaurants in your area 6. If you use delivery apps, order food from local restaurants in your area

New York’s small businesses have closed due to the pandemic, and that was only a little over 3 years ago. However, the affects of the pandemic are still being felt around New York City because even though the pandemic is over and life has returned to normal, our local businesses are still suffering. Around 4,500 resturants and bars have closed since the start of the pandemic up until now, according to Eater New York. Since I am trying to spread awareness on helping local businesses here is a list of some of my favorite local New York City spots:

1. Spicy Moon Vegan Szechuan~ This vegan restaurant has two locations — one in the West Village and one in the East Village. If your are vegan, vegetarian, or you just like to try new things this place is one of my favorites. More specifically their West Village location because of the fun atmosphere and it is the larger location of the two.

2. Economy Candy ~ This candy shop is located right off of Essex Street and they have a wide variety of sweets, from candy that they make themselves to candy that may have been discontinued or that you can no longer find. The store can be overwhelming with how much candy that they carry, but it is totally worth the visit.

3. Namaste Bookshop ~ This spiritual shop is located on 14th street right near the union square subway station. They have two locations that are only just a few steps away from one another, but if you are interested in crystals, tarot, or just need some incense for your apartment this place is for you.

Please go check out any of the local businesses I mentioned above or go to any of your favorite local spots. New York While we cannot avoid shopping at chain stores and City thrives off its unique local businesses and without restaurants, we can make active choices in trying to less- them New York City would not be what it always has been. en the amount of money we choose to spend at chains. So please shop local, eat local, and buy local when you can. Making those little changes can make a huge impact on those businesses and possible help keep them in business. According to a NewYork Times article about one-third of

WELCOME TO FITFIT SEE YOU NEXT YEAR

By Nicholas Alexis

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IT’S IT’SNOT NOTAAPHASE PHASE

The world of fitness has experienced a remarkable shift in recent years, as people seek to find new ways to stay healthy and maintain a fit lifestyle. From the popular P90-X workouts and Atkins diets of the 90s to HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) workouts and meal-prepping of today, the fitness culture is constantly evolving. One of the latest trends is the rise of fitness influencers who motivate and inspire people through their social media platforms. Unlike the old days, when Richard Simmons was the only fitness coach, today you can find thousands of fitness influencers online who cater to every fitness level and interest. Some of these fitness influencers focus on the sport of boxing, which has become increasingly popular in recent years. This resurgence can be attributed to several factors, including the growing popularity of YouTube boxing matches. The boxing ring has become a platform for YouTubers to settle their disputes, resulting in massive pay-perview events that attract millions of viewers.

dedication. What started as just an idea that sounded fun has now turned into an outlet for students to learn how to better defend themselves in a city as large as NYC and relieve stress in a helpful way while getting in shape. As of writing this article, the Boxing Club has over 130 members in its first month of creation, making it one of FIT’s fastest growing clubs. With multiple collaborations planned, including a Creed movie marathon event with The Film Club, The Boxing Club is becoming a staple of FIT’s fitness lifestyle.

ber, Alyssa Casa, stated, “I’m hoping to be healthier and get stronger. I also love the community that a club like this offers.” Overall, the fitness culture and the sport of boxing are experiencing a renaissance. The Boxing Club offers a challenging and rewarding way for students to gain self-defense skills, get in better shape, and stay healthy at FIT. It’s exciting to see how these trends on social media will continue to evolve in the coming years. With the vast array of fitness influencers and workout regimens available, there’s no excuse for not finding a fitness routine that works for you. And for those looking to try something new, boxing offers a fun and stress-relieving way to pick up a new skill that can benefit you both physically and mentally. There’s no better place to start then by joining The Boxing Club which is open to complete beginners with zero boxing experience and

I asked Joh Ná Clements, who has been there since the first boxing club training session, what made her interested in joining. She replied, “It started a few years back when something traumatic happened to me by my ex. I was left feeling weak, defenseless, and defeated. It was always in me to learn boxing, but I never took the time to actually gain the confidence to start. I heard about to those who have their own boxing the boxing club and took it as a sign to gloves. Another factor is the release start. Since I’ve joined, I can feel my of the Creed films, which have physical and mental strength getting reinvigorated interest in the stronger every day. sport. Mario Cabrera, the head of public safeWhile the Rocky movies were some of ty ‘Public Safety.’ and a faculty memthe earliest mainstream boxing films, ber of the Boxing Club, expressed his the last numbered Rocky movie was excitement when the club reached out released in 1990. However, in 2015, the to him and asked him to be a part of release of the spin-off movie Creed gen- the team. He said, “My immediate reerated renewed excitement in boxing. sponse to the request was one of exciteWith Creed 3 currently in theaters and ment. After having practiced the ‘sweet another inevitable large YouTube box- science’ of boxing solo for the last five ing match on the horizon, boxing once years, it is a pleasure to pass along all again is on the tip of everyone’s tongue. that I have learned!” This semester, FIT’s first-ever Boxing Club has been created. It is the culti- When asked what she hopes to gain vation of over a year of hard work and from The Boxing Club, another mem-

Illustration by Norberto Perez Graphic Design by Cheyenne Syrek

SEE YOU NEXT YEAR FIT

didly, so out it so can b a lk ta s u out et nversation. L here of safety , co sp y e il th a d d e n te th y women ge part of y that we ex Lu ause for man my anger ra so frequentl ec t b d a n – th a By Jenny , d et ly n y h a g it st u e fe envier creating a sa n led to und . As a thoro ho do not hav t ee le u w b b o s b ea en a k ay m li is o lw n a is w u e for those rude and survival. Th my life, I’v elings. ill make me required for entirely unThroughout w l ft il it le st t r a is te th eir human fe ce et , n b n th le o n re si ti o a a ti sh er o d o gg to o a em is an ex everyone n, neither g nger is an lately, the ronment for man emotio arned that a u h le It . I le n , b o a n a ti it to feel” and o m ev g o em in w in l o n a g a n g is m si I’ er l, e topic. lly a ever, ang sists verage on th g to just dea er co p in t it is actua f o a it g o th , e t voiced. How o p et n rn y ty a t d le a n male “I’m e come to tations of fe and harm. 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And yet ture, I see a rocessing, an en of any fu p r m , o g ea w n in r y el fo er fe v t fe e a is. But it not been sa t they In th omen to become experts ds soft and it a n th u so re a it sh re u S to e time w body and th female body. background man other e e u h th th l f a h o g u rm m o ro is n ce the new femin emotions th to stay. They too experien oseful. It is a it has come rp se u u p a y ec er b . v e g o er ng is als feminine ra emotion of a wer. e to embrace m co s ale rage is po a m h fe t u to B . is er is g rage is an o about th should all g ale say male e m w fe g ay in w k e a Th dm icipating an focus on part

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IT’S IT’SNOT NOTAAPHASE PHASE

Graphic Design by Danielle Bilello

need.

ant.

d es

Want. Need. Desire.

Illustration by Kai Liguori

Intimacy, romance… Love, lust. The contrast and similarity between one and other, often disperse the feeling in the result of one. In New York City as a College student away from home, away from love, away from comfort. Where is it that Students of Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) amount to these?

By Adrian Gonzalez

“I think about sex all the time,” Sex is everywhere; in music, dance, fashion, culture, life. Sex is a “Want. Need. Desire,”Josefina Lopez De Romana (LDR) says. The definition of sex ranges with age group. Generally sex is what is going to make you feel vibrant, attached, and connected—With whom? That is for you to decide. Sex also varies through culture, age, and eras. We are living in a time when sex is easy to obtain but is not necessarily something influenced by society anymore. Everyone has their own set of mind when it comes to sex, whether they want to have it or not is not for others to dictate but where it is. At FIT, hookup culture is scarce. Are students willing to share their essence with one another,being that FIT is severely slim to an average college campus? Seeing one another after a “one and done” is the presumption of awkwardness but does not only mean that FIT has none due to this situation but more importantly the scarcity of men. Straight, gay, cis, variant, non-conforming, MEN as it stands. CollegeSimply renowning the undiverse queen for Gender Demographics to FIT as said “There are 399% more female students than male students enrolled at Fashion Institute of Technology with a gender ratio of 83% women to 17% men.” No men no sex?

“Love is in the air” said here, said there, said everywhere, or maybe also said as “we are all a little weird and life’s a little weird, and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love,” by Dr. Suess. The love at FIT holds power. When you come from the depths of the south surrounded by NPCs (Nonplayer Character) no one alike as you, feeling disassociated to the Fashion Institute of Technology, you become awakened by people just like you and feeling connected with your rightful peers. The love attained here through yourself, a relationship, and/or friendships is preeminent than any other experience made here. Loving yourself harder than anyone else has put you on this pedestal of hierarchy. Combining that with being in love and what is most desired from love is being “loved for who I am,” LDR says. Absolute acceptance is what consoles the heart the most. Lauryn Hill says this the best, “You taking that person for what he or she is no matter what he or she looks like, No matter what he or she does.” Being extravagant, exaggerated, imaginative, are the things that separates pragmatic, practical, realistic day to day life from romanticism. The sensation of feeling conspicuous, concentrated,

and experimental – being eye to eye in deep animation, hearing by seeing, feeling by seeing, connected by contact. Khyla D’Shaye has illuminated such beautiful sexuality.

Bi-Romantic Demisexual, entailing one emotionally bonded and romantically attracted prior to any sexual connection. In this specific point of view D’Shaye described the need for sexual activity as fiction, unreal. Though it may

be participated as a sport but not so much… lust. The real pleasure comes from being “deeply connected to someone” D’Shaye says.

Intimacy is found within relationships, friendships and most importantly, yourself. Vulnerability, comfort, and ease, is what many have implied the feeling of being intimate. One of the strongest priorities I’ve heard is being intimate within yourself. LDR describes sex with passion within herself as if a Pokémon is in the depths of a fight, attack after attack, reaching the level of great strength and power to the point where this Pokémon is now in its Super Specialty mode. Being connected with her body, feeling; sexy, powerful, and in control; reaching the extent of intimacy within yourself. Subtle company, being with one another, chilling, talking, relaxing. As long as you are by or around this person or these people your intimacy is vibrant. The sensation when you feel unconditionally loved through presence. Is drawn so far out through lust, romance, love, touching on any of these guarantees you some type of the slightest amount of intimacy whether alone, or together or in a group.

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THE INVISIBLE WALL CONFRONTING THE LACK OF DIVERSITY IN FINANCE

a mc 2 4 wr i t t en by ca r ol i na wu c hen

“If it’s going to sit on the shelves at Barnes and Nobles, people are going to look and see a black woman on the cover of a finance book and say, “I’m not getting it.” Tiffany Aliche, a preschool teacher turned financial educator and author of Get Good with Money, said this when she first got her book deal. Can you believe it? Aliche landed her book deal based on her success as a financial educator, her contributions to her community, and her major role in passing a law that made financial education mandatory in New Jersey middle schools. This statement from her is a disappointing reflection of the lack of diversity among financial educators and professionals. A two-year academic study showed that women are more likely to receive bad fi-

nancial advice and riskier investments than men from advisors due to the pervasiveness of gender bias within the industry. Women were often viewed as less knowledgeable and easily fooled when it comes to finances, leaving them in more vulnerable positions. It’s crucial to address diversity in the financial profession to promote interest in financial education. Firms also recognize that diversity will bring different skills and perspectives to the workplace and positively impact corporate growth. For example, The Greenwood Project, in Chicago, introduces hundreds of minority students to the financial industry each year across dozens of firms. 18

So why is financial literacy rates among women and people of color so low?

Money Tal k

It’s what I like to call a “no-no” topic of conversation. It’s considered impolite, it makes people uncomfortable, you equate it to your self-worth, and it can be depressing. A SmartAsset study used the 50/30/20 rule to determine the after-tax income required for a comfortable lifestyle in the top 25 metro areas for a single person without children. This rule allocates 50% for basic expenses, 30% for discretionary spending, and 20% for savings and debt. The results showed that an average post-tax income of $68,499 is needed for Americans to live comfort-

IT’S NOT A PHASE

ably in the United States. Prices rise at a faster rate than average incomes. Many people who grew up in New York City can no longer afford to live here or raise families here.

Financial Tr auma

Money is a form of power and it’s something that marginalized people often lack access to. A survey conducted by Chloe McKenzie, the founder of BlackFem, found that more respondents targeted by racial inequality and sexism were less likely to wish they had been required to take personal finance classes in school. They felt the curriculum couldn’t address their unique experiences or backgrounds. One particular student stated, “Developing [money management] skills cannot be the best you have to offer us when we are battling so much inequality.” Our economic system was built on slavery and even after slavery was abolished, policies were put in place to prevent certain individuals from fully participating in the economy.

A Cul t ure of Financial Shame Common examples of financial advice include s “Say No To The Credit Card” or “Don’t Buy More Stuff. It Won’t Make You Happier.” There’s this particular personal finance guru I like to call the “Voldemort” of personal finance, Dave Ramsey, that fails to acknowledge his privilege, regularly gives bad advice, and profits off shame and guilt. For me, he’s the ultimate villain with his record of encouraging unhealthy and toxic relationships with money. Then there are MLMs (multi-level marketing schemes) that often target low-income communities and moms. MLMs operate like pyramid schemes, encouraging members to enlist as many newcomers as possible. The only difference is that MLMs also sell products. However, the real money doesn’t come from product sales but from commissions earned from recruiting others. LuLaRoe, a legging company known for its vibrant

Illustration by Aleksey Nisenboym Graphic Design by Jessica Ehrenfeld

prints, attracted many women with promises of financial autonomy and a supportive community. When customers received faulty products and demanded refunds, many LuLaRoe saleswomen were meant with silence from the company and left with crippling debt and unsellable inventory. What steps do you think we should take to foster healthy conversations about money? Where do you put your money? And what do you hope to get out of it? Early retirement? Travel? New experiences? I am still in my financial literacy journey and I enjoy learning about it. There’s a lot you can do even with a limited amount of money if you know the steps to take. My holy trinity right now is my Roth IRA, a high-yield savings account, and a credit card with decent benefits.

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THE ERA OF CLIMATE CHANGE By Lakshya Lodha

The changing climate is an intricate and multifaceted phenomenon having significant ramifications for the natural world, human communities, and globalization. Climate change is caused by the accumulation of greenhouse gas emissions in the Earth’s atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. As a result of these molecules gathering solar heat, the Earth’s surface warms, influencing and altering weather patterns.

The protracted mission of the Paris Accord would be to limit global climate change far below the 2-degree Celsius exceeding pre-industrial levels, with a stretch ambition of 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Governments should formulate & execute out Nationally Defined Contributions, or NDCs, that are federal objectives for reducing emissions of greenhouse gasses (NDCs). Despite the existence of development in certain domains, including the aggressive expansion of renewable energy resources as well as the popularization of alternative fuels, and more technological advancements; even more needs to be accomplished to address the underlying causes and implications of climate change. Substantial constraints and potential for creativity, collaboration, and constructive change are posed by the era of climate change. Collectively, we can envision a future that will be more resilient and equitable.

Climate change is already having an imapct on communities throughout the world, with more regular and devastating natural disasters including cyclones, tornadoes, and wildfires, as well as rising sea levels that threaten low-lying coastal settlements being seen over the past decades, becoming more and more common. Global warming also poses significant risks to human health, including due to the increased exposure to polluted air that can bridge the spread of infectious diseases such as dengue fever and malaria into the human body.

However, it is essential to recognize that addressing climate change is a perplexing undertaking. This means that governments, businesses, and individuals all have a role to play. To combat climate change, collaboration and teamwork is essential. People and businesses can take many proactive steps that can lead to the reduction of their carbon footprint.

Our multinational society has collaborated and tried to develop a plethora of agreements and strategies geared towards reducing emissions of greenhouse gasses and fostering ecological sustainability in response to the critical urge in confronting climate change. The Paris Accord, which had been ratified by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in 2015, constitutes the most fundamental of these.

IT’S NOT A PHASE

Businesses must take proactive steps to reduce their carbon footprint and support renewable energy sources by disseminating healthy conventions of existing assets. Individuals must learn about the impact of their actions on the environment and take steps to reduce their carbon footprint.

These communities have since fewer access to resources and are less able to adapt to the consequences of global warming. As we seek to tackle climate change, it is critical that these communities are not left behind. While many argue that most ecological and environmentally safe options can turn out to be expensive and hence impractical, there are many that can be done on a day-to-day basis that cannot hurt the pocket or the environment. Some doable examples might include, reducing energy consumption, using public transportation, and supporting renewable energy sources, disposal of waste properly.

Another key concern that disrupts the challenge towards combating climate change, and one which also brings forth the struggles of the people is the uneven distribution of the impacts of climate change.

Governments can enact policies and regulations that promote sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They can also start by advertising more renewable sources of energy and taking a proactive part into implementing strategies that help reverse the negative effects of climate change. By working together, we can make a positive impact on the planet, creating a better future for all.

Climate change frequently has a disproportionate impact on low-income and minority groups, partially due to the fact of their access to limited resources, while also equally due to many political issues.

Technological breakthroughs are also crucial in the fight against climate change. Innovative technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or promote ecological sustainability are critical.

Illustration by Jacob Laczkowski Graphic Design by Anamika Aggarwal

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Advances in renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind energy, have allowed us to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Similarly, advancements in transportation technology, such as electric autos, are aiding in the reduction of emissions from the transportation industry. Additionally, environmental degradation is an international crisis that needs concerted efforts. While individuals may implement measures to minimize their emissions of greenhouse gasses, it is critical to remember that climate change is a global issue that must be addressed globally. This implies that international collaboration in the battle against climate change is important.

Governments must collaborate in order to minimize greenhouse gas emissions and enhance environmental sustainability. Furthermore, the effects of climate change are not confined to environmental and health repercussions. It is also a major danger to the world economy. When extreme weather events grow more often, they endanger key infrastructure, resulting in economic losses. The cost of inactivity in combating climate change is significantly larger than the cost of action. Climate change is a critical issue that requires urgent attention from governments, businesses, and individuals worldwide. To address this issue, we must work together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote ecological sustainability. This requires collaboration, technological innovations and above all education.

IT’S NOT A PHASE

by Niamh Sansom History of Art, Abroad Student University of York, UK

here’s a calm feeling in the air. Everything, strangely, seems to be going in your favor. Your grades are good, your friendships are strong, and your hair has fallen just the way you like. This phenomenon, maybe previously described as just doing well, has now been ironically penned as living in your ‘slay era.’ It seems that it is not just fashion that is fast in these times – our word choices are now also subject to the trend cycle. Inevitably, this phrase has now grown a life of its own - reused and recycled through endless jazzy internet creations and Gen Z wit. Now, you are more likely to hear this phrase being posthumously accompanied by a deadpan stare and monotone delivery. The ‘era’ expression has now seemed to have taken on a more self-deprecating role in conversation. You have probably heard others describe the more messy segments of their lives with the recognisable format of (insert niche experience) followed by era. It seems to now be a fun and quick way to separate yourself from painful moments in the past, after all, it was an era ago.

All of this era business not only serves a comedic purpose. By living in your ‘lucky girl’ era one month, and then your ‘clean girl’ era the next, you are able to try on and experience different perspectives in the same binary lifetime. This natural frustration, of being reduced to only one physical self, is poignantly noted by Sylvia Plath, who’s name is scattered across many a cool girl’s TikTok. In her unabridged journals she writes

Sylvia Plath interviewing Elizabeth Bowen for Mademoiselle, Summer of 1953.

– ‘I can never read all the books I want; I can never be all the people I want and live all the lives I want… And why do I want to? I want to live and feel all the shades, tones, and variations of mental and physical experience possible in my life...’

The past few years have felt uncertain and scary, with the pandemic affecting each and every one of us differently. In uncertain times, it has been noticed that individuals may cling more strongly to these subcultures and trends - though you may not be certain of your own or the world’s future, you can be calmed by finding certainty in your aesthetic choices or style. This can in turn bring us reassurance over ourselves and our identities, which is especially comforting when the news feels frightening to watch. Embracing the idea of personal eras can allow you to discover happiness in simple parts of life. Living in your book era, for example, may inspire you to enjoy being absorbed into a fictional world, or being in your thrifting era allows you both style and sustainability. Deeper thoughts aside, it can also be fun and fulfilling to try out different versions of ourselves. If you listen to any well-rounded person, they most certainly did not always have such a sure vision of who they are. They may have gone through an emo phase, (and perhaps are still secretly in one) a rampant obsession with 90s anime, French films, or any of the wonderful and varied interests one can have. These eras we travel through are not solely silly or disposable, but however, can have lasting effects on our character development.

This feeling of wanting to experience so much all at once can feel overwhelming, akin to looking at a stack of work piled up on your desk, or a dozen unopened emails. It can feel easier to bury your head in the mess than start rummaging through the papers. While Gen Z’s new catchy phrase may at first have seemed like another disposable internet fad, that will inevitably fade out and be penned ‘cheugy’ (a recent word meaning out of date), it seems to carry deeper meaning than one may initially assume. The words we choose to use shape our lives and how we live them. They act as the machinery in which we navigate our everyday lives. Behind each phrase uttered lies a history of intertwined events and occurrences that led to its creation. Our obsession with eras is no different.

Plus, you never know when a past era can come in handy in developing meaningful friendships. Your baking/pottery/journalling/ crystals era may not have been experienced in vain however, as isn’t it wonderful when somebody you’ve struck a conversation with meets you with the words… ‘Oh really? Me too!’

Graphin Design by Adriana Bolaños Art by Kaili Woop

SEE YOU NEXT YEAR FIT