December 2016

Volume 49

Volume 49

Issue 4

December 2016

Issue 3

November 2016

MASTHEAD Daniel Nissim Editor–in–Chief

W27

A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Jenny Kim Executive Editor Andrea Navarro Managing Editor Kayla Renshaw Treasurer

EDITORS Kayla Renshaw Meghan Kane

ART Rose-Ann Reynolds Art Director Lara Delatorre Photo Editor Joyce Xu Erin Rouse Henry Barrow Designers

CONTRIBUTORS Nermeen Ileiwat Thais Derjangocyan Natalia Pereira Andy Mitchell Erin Taylor Amal Hawari Sophia Ostapenko Sarah Fielding Christina Santos Cameron Heaney Rohini Mikkelsen Cameron Chamblee Taylor Koontz Carmen Li

While we all can't wait to finish finals and head home for the holidays, I think it is important to take a moment for reflection.

Look back and appreciate all those projects you stayed up late to finish.

Honestly, I pulled an all-nighter to finish this issue.

Poor sleep habits aside, you should be proud of your accomplishments as I am of my newspaper team.

This month we’re featuring Heather Leigh Cullum. You’ll recognize her work as she shot the designs in our first issue. We also have some contributions from non-staff members. I think they’re work will add an interesting angle to the postelection discussion.

The presidential election had a pronounced effect on everyone, and I think this opinion-based section displays a wide range of beliefs Well, I’m off to sleep the day away.

Have a great winter break. See you all in January.

Cheers,

Daniel Nissim Editor–in–Chief

To that end, you may notice that we have dissolved Month in Review and FIT Speaks for this issue. In their place is a one-time only section, My Fellow Americans.

Professor John Simone Editorial Faculty Advisor Professor Albert Romano Advertising Advisor

W27 Newspaper

ON THE COVER: Photo by Heather Leigh Cullum

@W27 Newspaper

See more of Heather's work at www.heatherleighcullum.com

@W27 Newspaper

www.w27newspaper.org www.issuu.org/w27newspaper

FIT

DECEMBER 2016

contents ON THE BLOCK

HAUTE CULTURE

4

21

Concert Review: 1997-2017, Yellowcard’s Goodbye / Viewers See the Real New England in “Manchester by the Sea”

22

Movie Review: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them / Where You Lead…We Will Follow (The Gilmore Girls Are Back)

Instagram and the Fashion Industry

6

Runway27’s Club President Hannah Owens Gives Us the Scoop on Kaleidoscope Dream

8

Student Spotlight: Film & Media Major Tom Younghans Taking it One Frame at a Time

9

Changes in the Retail Industry: How the World of Retail is Battling E-commerce / Lord & Taylor’s Entry Into the World of Fast Fashion

DEAR INDUSTRY

10 11

Keep American Designers Great: Mr. and Mrs. Trump’s Affair with Foreign Fashion / Virgil Abloh: The Mind of a Creative Genius Nike Integrates Sports and Tech in New SoHo Store

12

MTA: Will They Go High or Low?

13

The Dangers of Fake News / Holiday Store Fronts

FEATURES

14 15

Top 10 Gifts On A College Budget Under $50

Things to Do Over the Holiday Break

16

Best of 2016

18

A Subconscious Feminist : Heather Leigh Cullum Interview

20 The Gallery

W27 is PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER. PLEASE RECYCLE AFTER READING. A FIT STUDENT ASSOCIATION PUBLICATION.

MY FELLOW AMERICANS

23

Post-Election Protest

24 Dear President-Elect Trump Feel ____________: FIT Reacts to the 2016 25 IPresidential Election Family Politically Divided: How I’ve Learned 26 Afrom My Parents Voting for Trump

HOFIT

27 Humans of FIT STYLE ON 27

28 Goodbye 2016, Hello 2017

3

4

ON THE BLOCK

W27

INSTAGRAM

AND THE // FASHION INDUSTRY

BY SARAH FIELDING

INSTAGRAM’S EVA CHEN AND DESIGNERS BECCA MCCHAREN & TANYA TAYLOR SPEAK AT FIT

On Nov. 16th, Eva Chen led a discussion on the impact of social media as part of The Museum at FIT’s Fashion Culture Series. Designers Becca McCharen and Tanya Taylor sat on the panel discussing how social media, specifically Instagram, has factored into their business.

Before the talk we were able to sit down with Chen and discuss her new role as Instagram’s Head of Fashion Partnerships, using your voice on social media and sneak a peek behind the curtain of the fashion industry.

The first time Eva Chen interviewed with Anna Wintour her sweater was unzipped and she was a self-described mess. This might come as a shock to her devoted following of 640,000 on Instagram alone, but the experience went on to help inspire the extremely popular, and often copied, #evachenpose. “I’m like an accessoriesaholic, so I always know shoes and bags at least I can share without worrying about something awkward or like having crumbs on my face,” says Chen.

When asked about the semi-controversial practice of influencers such as herself, using their platform to campaign for what they believe in, Chen is a huge advocate, “this is just my personal opinion, but if you have the opportunity to have a voice, to spread a message, you should.” Chen stresses how everyone with an Instagram has a voice, “if you have an Instagram and you have followers, then you have your own platform. You might have a platform of 300 people, you might have a platform of 300,000.” Chen also stresses the importance of forming an opinion on important issues - specifically women. She states that acceptance is not an option because once you accept, “that’s when it gets kind of scary.” McCharen and Taylor each use their platforms to discuss their political views, as Chen does. McCharen explains it is important for her followers to know how she feels and if it turns them off so be it. Taylor initially questioned how much she should express her beliefs but realized how necessary it was to make her voice heard; she later went on to design t-shirts for the Clinton campaign.

While Chen believes that the fashion industry has improved dramatically over the past five to seven years she still sees room for growth. ”I think there’s been more diversity,

still not as much as I would personally like, but I think diversity has improved. Seeing someone like Ashley Graham on the cover of Sports Illustrated is very inspiring.” During the discussion both designers echoed Chen’s earlier sentiments, McCharen explained that diversity has always been important to her brand but now during what she described as the “Trumpocolypse” it’s even more important to fight for.

A huge bonus to Chen’s new position is the global aspect, an aspect that was not as prevalent in the U.S based magazines she previously held positions at. Chen explains that in Tokyo “you can hear someone like speaking fully in Japanese and say the word Instagram and that’s been kind of amazing to be places where I’m like, I don’t know what they’re talking about but I just heard someone say Instagram.”

When asked about Instagram’s ability to appeal to a large demographic Chen understands why with confidence. “You know, my mom is on Instagram and then there’s thirteen year olds on Instagram. It’s a very, very wide spectrum and I think the reason it appeals to so many people is because a photograph or a video, videos and photographs are things that, it doesn’t matter how old you are you can appreciate a beautiful picture of a beautiful thing.” Elaborating further she explains, “you can find your niche group and just follow that or you can, like I follow 1,000 accounts. You can really find your passion, so it’s great for every age.”

Chen has long understood the practice of using social media to promote designers.

“It’s funny because we went through a phase where people called social media, new media and from the very beginning I always said, it’s all media, period. And I think a lot of awareness, in terms of a brand, you might be a new brand without the marketing money to buy an ad campaign yet, but you can use Instagram to reach 500 million people around the world and you can use Instagram stories to show the making of your collection, from the casting to, in the case of Tanya Taylor, hand painting all her designs, to the case of models, for instance, building a profile, even before they get signed by a major agency like DNA

or Women or Society. So I think Instagram is an amazing launchpad for careers now, and I would urge any students to keep that in mind as well. Put your work on your Instagram, put your passions, put your personality on your Instagram and bare in mind that it’s something that people look at as you grow your career.”

Taylor and McCharen later on agreed, claiming social media mentions are more beneficial to their brands than editorial mentions.

Chen is extremely excited to see how industry insiders are using Instagram to give a peek behind the curtain. “I do think being able to see behind the scenes now is like my favorite part of fashion. For me, I never understood fashion as a viable career option, because like fifteen years ago Instagram didn’t exist and social media didn’t exist.“ She continues, “of course it sometimes shows the highlights, but my favorite accounts are the ones that you get a sense of the person and their personality and you get a sense of their personal hobbies as well.” She cites Philip Lim as a great example as he uses his account to showcase his love of interior design. “I think in many ways that’s why Instagram is such a great fashion education because you literally get to see things being made. Which, for me, as someone who never felt like they had access to fashion growing up, it’s been really amazing.”

“You know, my mom is on Instagram and then there’s thirteen year olds on Instagram.”

FIT

DECEMBER 2016

Happy Holidays!

From all of us at W27

Attention all artists!

WANT TO SEE YOU WORK IMMORTALIZED IN PRINT AND DISTRIBUTED ACROSS CAMPUS? Then send your work to w27_newspaper@fitnyc.edu

W27 is open to feautring all art & design majors For our February issue, please submit samples of your work by February 3rd

5

6

ON THE BLOCK

W27

PHOTO COURTESY: XAVIER MARTINEZ

PHOTO COURTESY: XAVIER MARTINEZ

PHOTO COURTESY: XAVIER MARTINEZ

PHOTO COURTESY: XAVIER MARTINEZ

PHOTO COURTESY: IZABELA TRINGALI

PHOTO COURTESY: XAVIER MARTINEZ

PHOTO COURTESY: IZABELA TRINGALI

PHOTO COURTESY: IZABELA TRINGALI

FIT

DECEMBER 2016

Club President On Nov. 17, Haft Auditorium played host to Runway27’s annual fashion show. Club President Hannah Owens spoke with W27’s Sophia Ostapenko about the show, “Kaleidoscope Dream,” as well as what it means to organize an entire show with help from the FIT community.

Sophia Ostapenko: Runway27 was originally designed to help students express their passion through the process of creating an entire fashion show, from start to finish. Do only fashion design students participate, or do other students participate in the club as well?

Hannah Owens: We have students from all majors in the club. While it is a club focused on the process of putting together a fashion show, there are so many different students interested in the process. Whether it's an FBM student interested in being part of our merchandising committee or a photography student being part of our PR committee, we welcome them all! It's interesting to see how students from so many different majors come together to produce the show and sometimes don't even focus on what their major focuses on. We have FBM students on our PR committee and AMC students on our production committee. With so many different students joining the club, we like to let everyone focus on what they want to, regardless of their major.

SO: What has it been like to witness students expressing their efforts in the show?

HO: Seeing all the effort that the different committees put into the show is really amazing. Every one of our chairs in each committee has such a passion for the position they hold, and they all lead their committees with that same sense of passion which pushes all the members to give all they can to the show.

Seeing the members' excitement that comes from the show finally coming together after everyone has poured their blood, sweat and tears into it is honestly an indescribable feeling.

SO: How long did it take you to put the show together this year? Were there many participants on the team?

HO: We start planning the show during the spring semester, so we have been planning “Kaleidoscope Dream” since early February. It's almost a full year process! This year we are our largest we've ever been, and it was really exciting because all the new members got really involved right away which is always a plus. I'd say by the time the show came around, there were 40 or so members.

W27: Was there a moment in the show when things did not go as planned?

HO: This year everything, honestly, did go as planned during the show. An issue that did arise within creating the show had to do with our stage. Our Production committee created an amazing stage design and then when they went to order the materials we needed, it turns out the company decided to more than double the price of the main material we needed.

So, in a very short amount of time, they had to redesign the entire stage and come up with a new idea that fell within our budget. I am incredibly proud of my Production chairs, Jaclyn and Eleni, for dealing with that crisis. They dealt with it and came back with an idea that everyone actually liked better, so it turned out for the best! Problems always arise while we're sorting out the logistics of producing the show, but this was a huge game changer and put a lot of pressure on the team.

SO: What is the ambiance behind the scenes? Is it hectic or a bit more relaxed?

HO: Behind the scenes is a roller coaster. It can go from really chaotic to very calm in a matter of seconds. Everyone on my team is really great in their positions though, so that helps keep it all rolling smoothly. For having around 20 merchandising committee members and 60 models, plus whoever else is backstage for whatever reason, it went really well. The excitement of the show always trumps the chaos.

Hannah Owens Gives Us the Scoop on Kaleidoscope Dream

BY SOPHIA OSTAPENKO

SO: What is your favorite thing about Runway27 as well as the show you put on?

HO: My favorite thing about Runway27 is all of the members.

I have made some really great friends through the club. Plus, I get to meet new people every semester when we bring new members on board. I like to think we're a very inclusive club, and we all get along really well, considering there are so many of us, so it feels like a little family. It gives you a sense of comfort within such a big and busy FIT community.

My favorite thing about the show this year was the way all the committees got to come together to produce the show.

We have three different committees: production, PR and merchandising. In the past, they all had to communicate in order for the show to go smoothly, obviously. But this year, they really had to work together in order to get everything exactly the way we envisioned it. The way all the committees kind of intertwined to produce this huge vision that we had was the best part for me.

SO: Are there any more exciting projects coming from Runway27 that the FIT community can look forward to?

HO: I think there's always something to look forward to from Runway27. We only produce one show every year and it happens in the fall, so that's our one big thing we work towards year round. We start brainstorming our next show almost immediately after we finish the prior one. After seeing “Kaleidoscope Dream,” I can't imagine people wouldn't be excited to see what's coming in our next show.

SO: What’s the most important thing that you've learned from Runway27?

HO: One thing that I have learned from Runway27 is to never limit yourself because you think there's a chance it won’t happen. In planning the show, we come up with tons of ideas before narrowing in on our final vision. There are ideas that are just unrealistic for the production we put on, but then we get those ideas that we really love and aren't entirely sure about. It's so easy to just write them off because we know they might not be the easiest thing to figure out how to do or get approved to do, but sticking to them allows us to create the shows that we do. To think that our black light segment almost didn't happen because there were so many factors within it that we were unsure about blows my mind now because it was such a dominant feature in the show. Runway27 has really showed me that if you get something in your mind, don't limit yourself because you're unsure of it. Go for it and give it all you have because you never know what could actually come from it.

7

8

ON THE BLOCK

W27

STUDENT SPOTLIG HT:

Film & Media Major Tom Younghans Taking it One Frame at a Time PHOTO COURTESY: TOM YOUNGHANS

BY MARTIN ALLEN

Something many people don’t know about FIT is the the school does, in fact, offer a film major. It’s easy to forget other forms of art when the titular industry of the school holds so much attention among current and prospective students. Nonetheless, the art of film is very present at FIT, and it is not to be overlooked. W27’s Martin Allen discussed the major, film in general and the future with film and media junior Tom Younghans.

W27: SO WHY FILM? TOM YOUNGHANS: I can’t really explain my initial attraction to cinema as an art form.

I even have great difficulty explaining to myself why I decided to pursue film on the collegiate level. I suppose I had seen it as a means to an end for my career; more later on that. However, in the last year I was forced to reevaluate my interest in the medium and in turn the Film and Media program at FIT. The beauty of the cinema is so robust because of its multifaceted nature. A film requires artistry at every level; writing, scheduling (yes scheduling is an art form), storyboarding, casting, acting, cinematography, sound design, editing, conform/color correction/ vfx, the list goes on and on.

Being a filmmaker requires that, at the very least, you have an understanding of every step of a very long process. It requires you to be a renaissance man of media. The very nature of the cinematic experience is a connection between multiple images and ideas, this is reflected in the methodology and workflow of creating a film project.

W27: WHAT KIND OF CLASSES DOES THE PROGRAM OFFER? TY: We have certain classes we need to take each semester. Usually at least one production class and one study class. In this particular semester (5th) we were required to take Screenwriting II, Advanced Cinematography Workshop and Film Theory and Criticism.

Our current production class is Advanced Cinematography. I should note, however, that we don’t only learn about the namesake.

Our skills can’t be improved in a vacuum.

You can’t surgically learn how to be a better cinematographer without progressing

as a filmmaker in general. It may be a Cinematography course but we focus on making good films, not just beautiful images.

This requires most of the steps I listed before.

In this way we never stop growing as artists because every semester we build on what we already know and learn new skills.

The major also offers a selection of Film Genre courses. Horror, sci-fi, melodrama.

There are also focused film studies classes like “Sexuality in Cinema.” Many of these classes are open to all FIT students. I encourage anyone with an interest to register.

W27: WHAT’S A TYPICAL DAY IN THE MAJOR LIKE? TY: At the risk of offending you, I am going to modify this question to, “What is a typical week in the major like?” I feel this will better reflect the way that it affects our lifestyle.

Typically, we have at least 2 major specific/ semester specific courses to tend to on a weekly basis. We are a small major, VERY SMALL. I am a Junior now. When I was a freshman we were the very first students in the film program, 25 strong. Since then two more batches of students have joined our ranks, and the class of 2018 has dwindled down to something like 15 students. We see quite a bit of each other. It has its pros and cons but in general everyone in the major is very close.

Our equipment cage, unlike the photo cage, is open only Tuesday-Thursday, so we’re forced to schedule our shoots and whatnot around that. Just like any week of school I suppose.

W27: BIGGEST FILM INFLUENCES? TY: The people on this list are quite disparate in style. I would cite Stanley Kubrick, Kevin Smith and the Cohen brothers but who knows how much their style has actually affected my own. I prefer to watch films that make me think about the way that I create, rather than attempt to emulate them.

I’m almost ashamed to say that I do not watch a lot of films. I spend most of my free time listening to and playing music. In a way I think this has influenced my filmmaking

in more ways than any Director could. The Allman Brothers Band, Phish, Dopapod, jam band stuff like that. They express tension and drama with rhythm and pitch, if you boil it down. That influences the way that I edit, and the way that I shoot. I treat an image as if it was a note or a chord and when I edit I think of rhythm. Sometimes it’s straight rock and roll, sometimes it’s jazz. I want to create a synesthetic experience, even if it is hiding behind a strong story. The events of a film are just lyrics, the way you work with light and time is music.

W27: WHAT’S NEXT AFTER GRADUATION? TY: I plan to work in the field of post production after I graduate. Ive interned and freelanced at a prominent Digital Intermediate facility in SoHo and I plan to work there or in a similar environment. This would mean doing Conform/Color/VFX. There’s quite a bit to get into, I don’t believe I could explain it quickly.

Regardless, I plan on continuing to write screenplays and shoot films in my free time, devoting some time to music. I want to be part of the industry constantly but be able to make something entirely my own when I have the chance.

FIT

DECEMBER 2016

9

CHANGES IN THE RETAIL INDUSTRY:

HOW THE WORLD OF RETAIL IS BATTLING E-COMMERCE

BY SOPHIA OSTAPENKO Ever since e-commerce has come into existence it has quickly become the most convenient way to shop.

Out of the comfort of one’s home one can easily purchase clothing, accessories and home décor without having to march into the store, worry about transportation and waste time and effort. Besides, it gives customers more time to browse for additional sales and coupons on merchandise that can be found on websites such as dealsplus.com and coupons.com.

Although e-commerce has definitely contributed to the changing buying habits of consumers, there is one thing that hasn’t carried over, the traditional retail experience.

PHOTO COURTESY: SOPHIA OSTAPENKO

One thing that isn’t obtainable through online shopping is the physical experience of going into the store. The traditional retail experience is as follows: touching clothes, feeling the fabric, trying it on and being able to see if it’s the right fit. However, people who purchase clothing online do have the ability to try it on at home and make use of the return label to send it back. Yet some retail giants are planning to, or already have, applied various tactics in order to bring customers back into the store by creating interactive in-store experiences such as a mini coffee shop or a museum about the history of the brand. These additions to stores are starting to intrigue customer’s curiosity, thus bringing them back into the physical world

of commerce. Large retail chains such as Victoria’s Secret, Elie Tahari and North Face have opened several new stores that include certain exhibits that don’t just improve the brand’s image, but also increase consumer foot track.

Victoria’s Secret has opened its biggest store on Fifth Ave and W. 51st Street. With grandiose views of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the new Victoria’s Secret Fifth Avenue store has four floors. The basement, ground floor and second floor are devoted solely to the Victoria’s Secret lingerie and beauty lines. The top floor includes a new addition to the brand itself: a museum. The museum is a permanent installment that features several looks from the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.

Every year the museum will be updated with inspiration boards and looks from the previous shows in order to highlight the creative process of a Victoria’s Secret fashion show to customers visiting the store. The museum attracts a variety of customers from around the world, which aids in developing the brand’s image and social media following.

Elie Tahari opened a temporary concept store in 2013 but the shop experienced such wide success that the temporary turned into a permanent placement of the boutique. The space serves not only as a retail store but also houses Tahari’s studio. One of the first

things that catches the passerby’s eye is the mini in-house coffee bar which includes assorted pastries priced at $2 each. A mini-coffee bar is a great addition to any retail store, at one point or another the customer will crave a sweet treat. If the customer is encouraged to feel comfortable, he or she is open to purchasing more.

North Face has recently opened a flagship store on Fifth Avenue.

However, instead of installing a coffee shop or opening a museum dedicated to North Face products, the company has come up with a different way to garner more foot traffic: providing on-site customization services for the customer’s North Face jacket. In addition, there is also a climbing wall and community seating, which promotes the North Face image of leading an active lifestyle.

By using what seemed to be obvious methods or tactics, retail stores such as Victoria’s Secret, North Face and Elie Tahari are bringing their customers to the stores to absorb the experience rather than by simply purchasing online and closing the tab after the shopping cart is cleared. Not only have these retailers made the shopping experience interactive and entertaining, they also have the ability to improve brand loyalty and garner foot traffic from consumers around the world.

Lord & Taylor Enters Fast Fashion

BY THAIS DERJANGOCYAN

It is no secret that fast fashion has become a significant factor in the modern day shopping experience. Retailers like Zara, Forever 21 and H&M are able to provide the latest styles at an affordable price through their use of fast fashion.

Putting aside some of the negative implications of the system — abuses along the production chain, its impact on the industry, etc. — fast fashion is still highly sought after.Lord & Taylor has become aware of the competition and has decided to act on it.

Lord & Taylor, the oldest department store in the country, has opted to jump on the fast fashion band wagon to attract more consumers while keeping existing ones. The well-known department store has announced that by speeding up their supply chain they can better catch popular trends in fashion thus leading to a “Zara-like” shopping experience. Liz Rodbell, president of Hudson’s Bay Co. (and the parent company to Lord & Taylor), told The Wall Street Journal that “With the world moving so fast, we need to get fashion here faster.”

Lord & Taylor’s “faster fashion” approach, which launched this fall, entails a weekly drop of three lines that are exclusive to the department store.

These lines include IMNYC Isaac Mizrahi, H

Halston and Highline Collective. With this new plan, Lord & Taylor will now be producing clothes as quickly as its main competitor in the fast fashion realm, Zara.

eliminate an additional week in production time, according to The Wall Street Journal. Shoppers should expect more innovative advancements from America’s oldest, and now hippest, department store.

Lord & Taylor’s shift in production will provide customers with a wider variety of trendy clothing options — with new merchandise hitting arriving every week due to stepped-up deliveries. This also means that consumers will now be able to purchase up-to-the-minute trends at the department store.

“We’re living in a digital world where trends appear, peak and die faster than in the past,” said MaryAnne Morin, vice president and chief merchant at Hudson’s Bay Co. and Lord & Taylor.

“It's imperative that department stores adapt to offer customers what they want, when they want it.” Recognizing the need for what is hot now should set Lord & Taylor up for a successful transition from the traditional retail model to the “see now, buy now” approach.

Along with their exclusive lines, the retailer also plans on shortening its lead times by having factories send goods to the department stores directly on hangers which would bypass distribution centers. This would essentially

PHOTO COURTESY: MARILYNN K. YEE/THE NEW YORK TIMES

10

DEAR INDUSTRY

W27

KEEP AMERICAN DESIGNERS GREAT: MR. AND MRS. TRUMP’S AFFAIR WITH FOREIGN FASHION

BY MEGHAN KANE

As the shock of a Trump presidency begins to wear off, the reality of its effects on fashion are swimming into focus. The irony of the president-elect’s now synonymous baseball cap and his alternating Brioni and Donald J Trump Collection suits have fallen to the wayside with the potential break-up between America’s future first family and the fashion industry now in question.

Sure, we laughed at Trump’s “Make America Great Again” caps juxtaposed with his designer getups, while he harangued about making American business great again.

Since designer Sophia Theallet tweeted a letter declaring her refusal to dress Melania Trump and her encouragement of other designers to follow suit, few industry leaders had commented on the matter. This recently changed when Tommy Hilfiger revealed his stance on the issue, urging fellow designers not to “become political about it.” He went on to say that designers “should be proud” to dress Melania. Meanwhile, Tom Ford condemned the idea of Melania in a custom garment of his creation saying, “She’s not necessarily my image.”

PHOTO COURTESY: LUDO COENEN VIA FLICKR

the first time ever, although it came as no surprise due to Anna Wintour’s involvement in the Clinton campaign, Vogue endorsed a political candidate.

Stefano Tonchi, the editor of W, also came out in support of Clinton in his letter from the editor. Ralph Lauren dressed her in custom pantsuits throughout her fight for the presidency.

So when Melania walked onstage at the New York Hilton Midtown with the rest of the Trump family after Donald’s win on Nov. 8, her white Ralph Lauren jumpsuit, while certainly elegant and modern, was off the rack. Is this a harbinger of what’s to come after the Trumps move into the White House?

Melania constantly purchases her own outfits for political appearances. On the campaign trail this past summer, a spokeswoman said that Mrs. Trump “isn’t working with any designers.” A significantly different approach to dress from past first ladies, this may serve as a connector between our future first lady and the other women in this country who buy their own clothes.

The respect and credibility given to the U.S. fashion industry by the likes of Jackie Kennedy, Nancy Reagan, Hillary But the American fashion industry loved Clinton and Michelle Obama are set Hillary Clinton the way Mr. Trump loves to be challenged by Melania due to himself. Marc Jacobs, Tory Burch and her affinity for foreign designers and, Diane von Furstenberg were just a few more importantly, her disregard for of the many designers who supported the long marriage between political Clinton throughout the presidential communication and fashion. Because race — producing shirts, runway shows many forced a connection between and galas in aid of her campaign. For Melania’s Gucci pussy bow blouse worn

VIRGIL ABLOH: Shea Parton, one of two brothers that founded Apolis Global Marketplace, welcomed a large group of people at the Creativity and Community Panel on Nov. 15 at the Apolis by explaining the significance of the word apolis.“It means global community,” he told attendees. Parton led with a theme of activist citizenship and involvement in a creative community for the following hour, which featured designer and creative director Virgil Abloh as well as artist Tom Sachs.

Abloh took Parton’s statement in stride, agreeing and mentioning that “community is a global thought, connecting people of similar mindsets.”

Though he is very well-known and even worshipped in the fashion industry, Abloh has a humble and positive outlook on the world.

Abloh, founder of successful luxury streetwear brand Off-White and creative director for Kanye West since 2003, was asked to give advice to upand-coming designers. Abloh stated, “There are always open seats for young people to join the community.

Whenever I see a seat or outlet for creativity I go running for it, and I empower others to do the same.”

Abloh also mentioned that “there is no prerequisite to be an artist, and there’s no reason not to jump right in.”

However, Abloh didn’t always know that this was the path he wanted to take in life. In fact, he attended the University of Wisconsin to study engineering and the Illinois Institute of Technology for architecture.

Though he was a bright student, Abloh claims, “I kind of didn’t have what it takes. I dropped out to be an artist and do what I loved.”

When asked why he chose to go into architecture the designer gave a bit

to the second presidential debate and her husband’s comments about grabbing women, a coincidence involving an outdated name for a tie front shirt was confused with a political conversation and the real message was missed.

Melania doesn’t seem to care that much about drawing attention to herself in a political manner. Ironically, she was probably trying to come off as demure with a classic and traditionally modest style of clothing. Nevertheless, a number of statements were made with that top, one being the fact that it was Italian.

And while this may be hypocritical, it may not be a bad thing. Trump built a large part of his campaign on the notion of nationalism, but he and his wife are clearly fans of international labels. But why not appreciate this? Although it has become custom for the first lady to don the designs of Americans, who says it has to continue to be that way? The inclusion of other nations on the political stage in the United States is perhaps symbolic of an acceptance of others.

Yes, others. The very people Trump said he wouldn’t accept. Already we’ve seen him back down from the claims which most presume got him the presidency in the first place. That wall? Forget about it. The Muslim registry? Won’t come to fruition. The beginning of a political fashion revolution in the White House?

Likely.

The Mind of a Creative Genius

BY CAMERON HEANEY child to be successful and receive a degree. Abloh said, “This was the least I could do after all that my parents did for me. I didn’t know what I wanted to do so I let them pick what I studied.”

The Off-White designer’s motivation is to be a beacon to younger designers and spread his message. Abloh is driven by his “innate curiosity” and half-jokingly mentioned that he severely lacks sleep “for a good cause.” He analyzes people's ideas, actions and statements, and is constantly under pressure to innovate, design and change the fashion world as we know it.

Virgil Abloh’s easygoing and humble disposition has gotten him very far in the fashion industry. He stated, “me and fashion is a joke” even though he is wildly successful and produces over 200 pieces per fashion show.

PHOTO COURTESY: CAMERON HEANEY His “hyper-creative” of a background on his personal life, mind has allowed him to grow very stating that both of his parents are quickly as a designer, but his casual from Ghana and that their goal when attitude keeps him and his colleagues moving to the states was for their grounded.

One of the most fascinating things about Virgil Abloh is that he doesn’t hold back when he speaks to a crowd.

He was willing to talk about his childhood, parents, confusion and struggles throughout his life. Nothing seemed scripted or planned, making it feel like a real conversation with a friend rather than a large group of 50 young creatives essentially interviewing Abloh. I personally got to speak with him one-on-one for a few brief minutes after the panel where he asked me to hold his bag while he pulled up a picture to show me on his phone. He jokingly asked me and my friends, “who wants to get some pizza after this?”

One of the final questions in the panel was about the designer’s opinion on the outcome of the presidential election. Abloh simply stated, “If this isn't a battery in our back to keep going as a generation of young creatives, I don’t know what is.

All I can say is that this can not and will not stop us. Keep going.”

Virgil Abloh is a truly unique designer and creative mind with a very interesting outlook on the fashion industry and the world around him.

FIT

DECEMBER 2016

Nike Integrates Sports and Tech in New SoHo Store

BY CHRISTINA SANTOS

Nike 1:1 help, when an employee will assist the customer uninterrupted for one hour to gather all equipment, similar to a personal stylist, as well as advice on the customer’s sport of choice.

Upon entering the store customers get an opportunity to engage with the new technology, as well as try on clothing. The first floor focuses on women’s running and training and demonstrates a virtual treadmill. Customers have the chance to try on and test out footwear on a treadmill facing a screen which simulates images as if they were virtually running throughout iconic places in New York City, such as Central Park.. Also featured on the first floor is The Lounge. Catered towards women, this area of the store hosts fitting rooms and provides services such as bra fittings, pant hemming and a water refill station.

The fifth and final floor is themed around basketball and contains a 23-foot basketball zone. This zone gives customers the chance to participate in nine-minute drills guided by an in-store athlete as well as test out the benefits of different Nike sneakers. Also featured is an adjustable basketball hoop and a digital screen that projects basketball courts around New York City such as Brooklyn Bridge Park, providing customers with a unique virtual experience.

The basketball, soccer and running zones are the first of its kind for Nike. They immerse the shopper in a brand and sport universe. The company plans to open another store similar to the SoHo location in Miami, Florida in mid-December. Check out the new Nike store in Soho located at 529 Broadway.

The second floor is geared towards men and

On Nov. 18, Nike unveiled its newest flagship store in SoHo. With five floors, the store features new Nike personalized services and incorporates new technology throughout the store. Each floor has its own sports-related theme and links products with new innovative ways of shopping. The store contains its own exclusive collaborations, like the LeBron Soldier X collaboration with designer John Elliott, and demonstrates the modern take on the retail experience with touch screens mounted on the walls that offer amenities such as customer store assistance and various in-store activities.

“We’re leading the transformation of sport retail — offering the best of Nike products, services and experiences under one roof,” said Heidi O’Neill, Nike’s president of Global Direct to Consumer.

The overall point of the retail store is made to provide customers with a new and unique shopping experience. The addition of the wallmounted touch screens provides customers with Nike+ Benefits, which entails free returns, 30day trials and free online shipping. This modern addition to the store also offers customers the chance to exercise and train with Nike coaches and athletes with the Nike+ Run Club, as well as in the designated work- out zones. The screen also shows store events and displays the opportunity to receive

PHOTOS COURTESY: CHRISTINA SANTOS

women sportswear and features a grand glass vitrine display of past Nike sneakers as well as sneakers that have yet to be introduced. Close by is the display of the Nike+ SNKRS Experience.

According to Nike this is the largest dual-gender footwear wall in any Nike store worldwide. At 54-feet wide it has the largest in-season collection of Nike Air Force 1s. Also on the second floor is the Nike by NYC customization center which lets customers engrave and print symbols that are endemic to New York City on merchandise of their choice.

The third floor is focused on men’s running and training and presents the Nike and Apple collaboration. The two brands recently released the Apple Watch Nike+. According to Nike, this particular watch is designed to motivate users to run, offer guidance from coaches and encourage users to stick to their own workout regime. The fourth floor hosts a selection of children’s clothing and presents an in-store 400-square foot soccer field that is accompanied by 3D printed mannequins. This floor offers customers the opportunity to try on Nike cleats and simultaneously receive guidance from in-store athletes on various products.

11

12

DEAR INDUSTRY

W27

MTA:

Will They Go

HIGH or LOW

BY KAYLA RENSHAW Similar programs have been discussed nationwide with the first one effectively being put into place last year in Seattle. So far 35,600 people have enrolled that meet the requirements found on the program’s website. Public transit systems in Charlotte, North Carolina and Denver, Colorado currently offer discounts through nonprofit organizations. Boston is looking into implementing a similar system to the one Seattle currently embraces and are in the works of creating an effective program.

PHTOO COURTESY: KAYLA RENSHAW

Fortunately there are organizations advocating for reduced MetroCards for all students city-wide. In February, the Collegiate Congress issued a petition to bring this situation to the MTA’s attention. The petition called for a 30% discount on Unlimited Metro Ride Cards, a benefit that many college students don’t have because of the current price tag. A study conducted by the organization that included over 600 students found that 71% of them The Community Service Society has called on currently do not purchase an unlimited monthly Mayor de Blasio to include the proposal in his card yet 86% said they would purchase a monthly upcoming reelection campaign. The administration pass if they were offered a discount. is in the process of examining the proposal, but taking on a plan as big as this one comes with a With over half of the student population commuting hefty price tag with the grand total reaching $194 to and from FIT everyday, a reduced MetroCard million. Many city representatives are discouraged fare would be something of keen interest to many at the steep cost, but New York City Transportation students. Bena Deva, a commuter sophomore said, Commissioner Polly Trottenberg is an exception, “It would be so beneficial for students because so stating, “I do think we’re ready to sit down with much money goes into just commuting and then the MTA and look at potentially creative revenue when professors have you go to museums and back sources we can come up with, if we all collectively to class, it ends up being four fares.” agree that this is an important priority.”

According to the MTA’s website, over 4.3 million people ride the subway every day — many of whom have no choice; it is the only semi-affordable, convenient way to get from point A to point B in a city overrun with Ubers and Lyfts. Many people that would benefit from a price break can only afford to pay the subway fare day-by-day rather than purchase a monthly pass. These households do not have the extra income to spend $116.50 each month, which in turn leaves many worried if they On the MTA’s website it announces the only group will even be able to scrounge up enough cash to currently able to apply for reduced fares are make it to work the next day. Public transportation customers who are 65 or older or have a qualifying should not be a source of stress for people who are disability. To try to broaden that demographic, anti- working hard to provide for their families. poverty nonprofit Community Service Society of New York is lobbying for price cuts for low-income Families aren’t the only ones that have to deal households across the city. On the other end of the with the cost of the subway looming over their spectrum, the Collegiate Congress is advocating for heads. College students across the city are equally students. as impacted by the fare, since a large majority of students do commute to and from classes each In April, the CSS released a detailed report outlining day. Recently, CUNY schools introduced a bill that the logistics of the program, which designated New covered the cost of MetroCards for all students. Why Yorkers with household incomes below the federal aren’t more colleges implementing programs similar poverty level eligible for half-price MetroCards. to CUNY’s? With the rising cost of tuition, the last David R. Jones, president of the organization, has thing that students should have to worry about is if spoken publicly about the program stating, “This they can afford to make it to class or not. could have the most immediate impact to help the working poor right now rather than years in the future.”

The Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) is notorious for ruining a New Yorker’s day one train delay at a time. The ever increasing cost of subway fares continues to be an issue with the the looming threat of a raise from $2.75 to $3. In response, groups around the city are advocating for reduced MetroCard fares for different demographics — the city’s poor on top of the list.

FIT

DECEMBER 2016

13

The Dangers of Fake News

BY CHRISTINA SANTOS

The advantages that the advent of social media presents are endless. But with the good, there is always the bad. The recent use of fake news has taken its toll on the media and has affected many social media outlets.

The keyboard has now become a weapon, a tool for hate, with many deliberately creating fake news articles with the sole purpose of misleading the reader.

Facebook and Google are the sites that have largely been affected by fake news. The 2016 election was plagued by fake news reports.

On Nov. 14, just under a week after the election, the top result for the Google search “final election result” directed users to a fake news site with incorrect information, reported CNN. According to CNN, the sites are taking steps to undermine the business model used by fake news publishers.

In an interview with The Washington Post, Paul Horner, 38, revealed all of the fake news he purposefully made up and posted on Facebook. Horner believes that his fake news stories played a role in the outcome. “I think Trump is in the White House because of me,” said Horner. “His campaign manager posted

my story about a protester getting paid $3,500 as fact. Like, I made that up. I posted a fake ad on Craigslist.” Paul then goes on to explain that he made it up just because he wanted to make fun of the idea that someone was actually paid to protest at these rallies and had no idea that it would become as popular as it did.

Twitter has also felt the effects of the fake/ misleading news epidemic. Those with a large number of supporters are more likely to have their tweets believed and reposted, and expressed by those who share similar ideas. Besides the fact that notable people can influence the media, there are a number of “twitter trolls” and “robots” that tweet for the sole purpose of misleading others.

Twitter users simply scrolling through the platform may be unaware of this fact and believe everything that is being said. Because of this, Twitter announced that it has also joined forces with Facebook and other news companies to improve the standard of the information that is spread not only on Twitter, but across all social media.

'Tis the Season

Fake news has already had real-life consequences on individuals. The infamous pizzagate — a claim that Hillary Clinton and her former campaign manager, John Podesta, operated a child sex business in the basement of D.C.’s Comet Ping Pong — led one man to enter the pizzeria last week with an automatic weapon. No one was injured, but this will not be the last victim to fall prey fake news.

Always check a story with a reliable source, and if it’s that unbelievable, it probably isn’t true.

PHOTOS BY

Lara Delatorre

PRADA FIFTH AVENUE

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE BERGDORF GOODMAN

14

FEATURES

W27

MACY'S HERALD SQUARE SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

CARTIER FIFTH AVENUE

MACY'S HERALD SQUARE

Top 10 Gifts On A College Budget Under $50 Shopping for friends and family can be very stressful because you want to induce elation with your gift. But shopping as a college student amplifies the stress because of the tight budget many students live on. With only a few weeks before we head home for the Holidays, it is quickly veering into Holiday shopping crunch time.

Here are some easy, inexpensive gifts under $50 to get your friends and family before the holidays arrive: 1. Perfume: Although some of the most longlasting perfumes are expensive designer ones, I have found that the perfumes from Zara have a great, long-lasting scent. Get your sister, mom, grandmother, aunt or friends the floral or fruity “12:00 AM Sunday Morning Zara” for women at prices ranging from $15 to $25 (depending on sales).

2. Fast Food Gift Cards: Yes, you read that right. As a student you know that free food = the best food.

Try getting your friends cards to their favorite fast food restaurants such as Chick-fil-A, Shake Shack, In N’ Out, Starbucks, Panera or Buffalo Wild Wings.

school. The address is 629 6th Ave. 6. Lights, Camera, Action— Phone Flash: Your loved ones can raise the standard on the selfie game with the Efanr Portable Mini 16 LED light that snaps onto the top of your phone and offers a flash when you take a selfie. Get it for $6.99 from Amazon.

8. Built-in Bottle Opener Glass: We all know that one person who never has a bottle opener or constantly loses it. This gift could save someone from having to look for it all the time for $11.99 on uncommongoods.com.

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

9. Foodie Dice: These dice are clutch for those days when loved ones say, “I don’t know what to make for dinner” and need a little extra inspiration in the kitchen. They can be found on etsy.com for $38.

For $48 you can buy 100% knitted cashmere gloves for your mom at garnethill.com.

4. DIY Crochet Kit: Know someone who is obsessed with DIY projects? With this crafting kit, they can make their own crochet pot for their desktop succulent, or other plant of choice, for $35 from woolandthegang.com.

Aside from the all the gift options, the most important thing you can give to loved ones is love and affection; there is no price tag on that. So relax, don’t panic, excel in your finals and enjoy the Holidays with everyone you love!

5. But first, tea: For the tea lovers, you can buy a tea infuser. This hand kettle makes loose leaf tea easier to brew for $14.99 at the Container Store. Luckily for FIT students, the container store is near the

2

7. Dollar Shave Club: For just $3 a month, get your boyfriend, dad, grandpa and/or friend five brand new blades for $3 a month on dollarshaveclub.com

10. Gifts for Pets: Your four-legged family member needs some love under the Christmas tree, too. For cats you can buy the Cats Attack Scratching Post for $34.99 on perpetualkid.com. For dogs you can buy dog beer so they can join in on the fun. This 6-pack of beer is completely free of alcohol and contains USDA beef or chicken along with natural ingredients for $23.99 on bowserbeer.com.

3. Cashmere Gloves: The tables have turned — now you have to tell your mom to bundle up.

1

FIT

DECEMBER 2016

1. Before leaving New York and traveling back to wherever home may be, ice skating at Rockefeller Center and gazing at the majestic Rockefeller tree should top your to-do list. This is a memorable and classic New York tradition that should be experienced at least once.

10. At the very least, the break is for spending time with your family. Spend time with those you love and enjoy the fleeting time you have with them before the spring semester begins.

9. If you have trouble embracing the hype and commercial circus that attend the holidays, take a break from everything and volunteer — whether that be at a homeless shelter, a food kitchen or simply donating coats to a local clothing drive. Volunteering is the best gift to give yourself over the Holiday break; it warms your heart and helps you to realize all that you have.

3. Another good way to spend the load of free time you will have is by getting a job, make some extra cash before heading back to school.

2. When you finally make it home, spending time with your old high school friends is something you will not regret. Reliving high school memories with your original group of friends can easily help relieve the homesickness many of us have been experiencing.

4. An easy way to embrace the Holiday Spirit is by baking and eating cookies. Eating at the dining hall can get boring really fast. Going home and indulging in baked goods is the perfect treat.

Things to Do Over the Holiday Break

5. After you’ve eaten all the cookies you could possibly want, start working on the gingerbread house.

The Season of Joy is descending upon us again and with all the running around trying to buy the perfect gifts while juggling all of our finals, it may be difficult to remember we are meant to enjoy the winter break. Here are ten things to do during the winter recess: From W27 to you, enjoy the Holidays!

6. The holiday break is meant for relaxation, meaning eat all the food you want and watch all the Netflix and Hallmark movies you can stand. Some personal holiday favorites: “A Christmas Story,” “A Miracle on 34th Street” and “A Man Who Came to Dinner.”

8. Shopping. Shop for family, shop for your friends or just shop for yourself. Just go shopping and enjoy the “reduced” prices of shopping back home.

7. If you live someplace that snows, you may be lucky enough to ice skate outside (if you haven’t already gone skating at Rockefeller Center).

If not, you can always ice skate inside at a skating rink. This is a great way to work off all the holiday treats.

VECTOR COURTESY: ACCUCUTCRAFT.COM

15

16

FEATURES

W27

BY W27

ANDREA NAVARRO: x “The Raven King” by Maggie Stiefvater was the perfect ending to “The Raven Cycle” saga. It was absolutely satisfying in every possible sense. Although I didn’t have the time to read as much as I normally like to this year, TRK was by far my favorite book of 2016.

KAYLA RENSHAW:

JENNY KIM: Space X successfully landed its Falcon 9 rocket on a drone ship floating at sea. Most rockets that launch either get lost or destroyed, meaning new rockets have to be built for future missions leading to higher manufacturing costs.

One rocket takes $60 million to build, whereas refueling only takes $200,000. Being able to reuse rockets could bring down costs by 30%!

I think one of the best things that happened this year was a woman running for president. Even though the end result was not what many had hoped for, it was still a huge milestone. It has been a long time coming so it was great to see something as significant as that.

MEGHAN KANE:

MARTIN ALLEN: In what has been one of the most tumultuous years in recent lore, there is certainly some greatness to be gleaned from 2016. If I had to pick a "best" moment of the year, it would have to be when one of my favorite bands, The Killers, covered alt-indie mystery act Interpol's chilling "Obstacle 1" at The Governor's Ball in June. The moment was not only a testament to the indelible influence of New York alternative music, but also just a very special moment for music in general.

PHOTO COURTESY: ROBOHUB.ORG

For me, one of the highlights of this past year was Beyoncé’s visual album “Lemonade.” From the release of her “Formation” music video and her performance at the Super Bowl halftime show to her Formation World Tour, Beyoncé inspired legions of women and people of color with some of the most iconic fashion and music of 2016 and a poignant tale. The story of anger and forgiveness within “Lemonade” offered comfort to those who have ever been betrayed by a loved one. As she reminded us at her New York show on June 7, “there’s no such thing as a weak woman.”

MORGAN COURT: One of 2016’s best qualities has been its ability to maintain a sense of humor and positivity during tough times.

It’s hard to ignore the obstacles and unfortunate circumstances this year has faced. However, where there is struggle and hardship, there is opportunity to ease these scenarios with optimism and kindness. Much of our attention has been brought to activism. 2016 has been the year of social awareness. The year of social progression and change will hopefully follow suit, even if it’s slowly. After all, “slow and steady wins the race.”

CHRISTINA SANTOS: Among the best of 2016 "Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology" — an exhibition at The Costume Institute at The Metropolitan Museum of Art This year had so many advances in technology, and this exhibition linked together tech and fashion — showing all the astounding ways designers can make their pieces with materials other than traditional textiles. It made my appreciation for fashion much deeper and showcased that as society evolves, fashion does too.

FIT

DECEMBER 2016

TEAM SOPHIA OSTAPENKO: This year, coffee consumption was proved to help curtail cancer and suicide rates, which officially means coffee is not that “bad for you” after all.

NATALIA PEREIRA: ERIN TAYLOR: 2016 was a year in music no one saw coming. The release of Car Seat Headrest’s new album “Teens of Denial” is a part of the long list of the Best of 2016. This sophomore album of Car Seat Headrest was a much-anticipated album in the indie music world and did not disappoint.

PHOTO COURTESY: SOPHIA OSTAPENKO

ROHINI MIKKELSEN: With many disappointing and rather large difficulties in 2016, positivity can be found in the small victories.

According to the World Wildlife Fund, for the first time in one hundred years, the wild tiger population is increasing.

The WWF reports that the population has grown from 3,200 tigers in 2010 to 3,890 tigers in 2016. This increase is an encouraging step towards getting the tiger species off of the endangered list once and for all.

The best part of 2016 was when FIT’s The Style Shop reached $100,000 in total sales.

Being a student-run shop on campus, it was remarkable when this was accomplished because of all the dedication, time and effort put into the store’s products and operations.

It shows that hard work truly does pay off in the end and set a great example for the new team members to follow!

DANIEL NISSIM: 2016 was the year of two cities overcoming championship droughts: Cleveland and Chicago (really just the Cubs, actually). Before winning the World Series this year against the Cleveland Indians, the Cubs had not won in 108 years — having won their last title in 1908. While one Cleveland team failed to break the city’s seemingly endless drought, Lebron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers brought home the title with their win against the Golden State Warriors.

Congrats on these well-deserved wins.

PHOTO COURTESY: SHANE GORSKI

AMAL HAWARI:

TAYLOR KOONTZ: One of the best things that happened in 2016 was the US government denying the Dakota Access oil pipeline route — protecting the Standing Rock Sioux tribe.

Aside from what seemed to be a year of turmoil, 2016 had some great achievements.

One of the best moments of 2016 for me was the decision to replace Andrew Jackson with Harriet Tubman on the $20 bill. The former slave and abolitionist is the first African American, and the first woman in over a century, to be featured on the face of U.S. currency. The $20 bill can potentially serve as a reminder of the hardships minorities have endured and encourage us to support a diverse and free America.

17

18

FEATURES

W27

A SUBCONSCIOUS FEMINIST : HEATHER LEIGH CULLUM INTERVIEW

BY NERMEEN ILEIWAT

As Heather Leigh Cullum answers the phone, her voice is both cheerful and comforting and is immediately engaged in the conversation. Her passion for photography radiated through the phone as she spoke of her journey to get to where she is today: 21 and a Photography major junior at FIT. Some of her work is currently on display in the Feldman Center lobby. On her own photography and experience, here is what she had to say:

Nermeen Ileiwat: When did your passion for photography begin?

Heather Leigh Cullum: I started when I was about 10 or 11 years-old. I begged my grandma for a camera and started to take pictures all the time. I was taking really conceptual shots for a 10 year-old. I got into portraiture in high-school, I knew photography was what I wanted to do, everyone else in school knew it too. I was my thing, I never second guessed it.

NI: There are so many schools out there, so why FIT? HLC: This might sound weird, but FIT was actually my dream school.

I ended up going to a private college in Manhattan called Marymount

Manhattan College. It was just a bad program. There was no equipment and a super small studio. I felt like the kids in the program were forced to go to college and just randomly chose photography as their major. So I reapplied to FIT, cause I didn't get in the first time — my grades were too low. So I went to Marymount, got straight A’s and reapplied to FIT. I told myself if I didn't get in the second time around, then college probably just wasn’t for me. But luckily, I did get in.

NI: Do you still do the same type of conceptual work you did as kid, or has your focus changed?

HLC: My work now focuses on both conceptual portraiture and still life. My work shines on ideas of feminism, and I photograph all women. For a while I was taking full lead on my projects. I would find the model, the props, the makeup, hair, lighting, photographing, edition and publishing. It was a lot of

FIT

DECEMBER 2016

19

work, but I loved all of it. But I worked a full time job, went to school full time, so I decided to put together a team. So now I have someone for hair and makeup, lighting and things like that — making the whole process more pleasurable.

NI: What made you decide to focus your work on feminism?

HLC: It was honestly subconscious. Even when I was doing all this still life work, people would ask me, “Do you realize what you’re doing?” All my work was gravitated towards women. I do identify as gay, but it's not that I have a problem with men — I just feel more comfortable with women. Especially because I am putting them in weird scenes and weird outfits.

PHOTOS BY: HEATHER LEIGH CULLUM WWW.HEATHERLEIGHCULLUM.COM

NI: Are there any projects you’re currently working on that you would like the W27 readers to know about?

HLC: Yeah, actually, me and Ariana DeLuca, we are working on something called the Passionate Project. It’s really something that has great potential. It’s not technically school related, but she’s an advertising major who graduated already. We started to come up with this idea to make a collaborative website for female artists to collaborate — a database of women artist. We already did a promo shoot for the website.The website is not up yet, but it should be within the next month. We are launching this site as place for women to feel safe and comfortable meeting up with other artists. And where money isn’t an issue because it is a collaborative.

20 FEATURES

W27

The Gallery

"

Tushar K Nath Major: Third Year Fine Arts

"

Paint like nobody's watching..

See more artwork on Instagram @tusharkantidebnath

"

I really enjoy painting from life. I feel that it gives my work character and expresses truthful emotions. It is a sort of therapy to sit in front of a still life, model, or even a mirror and paint what I see.

Jillian Grzybowski Major: Third Year Fine Arts

"

FIT

DECEMBER 2016

21

Concert Review: 19972017 Yellowcard’s Goodbye

BY NATALIA PEREIRA

PHOTOS COURTESY: NATALIA PEREIRA

American rock band Yellowcard hit the music scene in 1997 with their debut release of “Midget Tossing.” These rockers from Jacksonville, Florida rose in popularity when their hit “Ocean Avenue” topped the genre’s charts and got them to where they are today. After many years of back-to-back headlining tours and spending summers on the Vans Warped Tour, the band released a final, self-titled album and headlining tour to conclude the last chapter of Yellowcard.

“We wanted to have the chance to share our farewell with as many fans around the world as we could, and now is the right time to do just that,” the band told Alternative Press. This farewell was expressed in the form of their most recent tour, The Final World Tour, which just finished its North American run and is scheduled to continue overseas in 2017. Next year will mark the band’s 20th anniversary.

On Nov. 9, Yellowcard’s last headlining tour came to New York City’s Playstation Theater. New Jersey’s Dryjacket and Sweden’s Like Torches opened with pop punk tracks to pump up the crowd for the farewell show. Dryjacket’s humor between songs was what really resonated with the audience, as well as relatable songs like “You’re Welcome.” As for Like Torches, the set was full of energy with lead singer Jonathan Kärn running back and forth across the stage during crowd favorites such as “Sweet by Swing.”

set list of 24 songs was comprised of fan favorites from each album, covering 20 years worth of songs in about two hours of time. New tracks such as “Rest in Peace” and “A Place We Set Afire” were sung by every fan from newbies to dayones. Though this self-titled album was released just this year, many of the new songs were not played.

The band brought back favorite middle school songs such as “Sing for Me,” “Only One” and of course, the song that started it all, “Ocean Avenue.”

Throughout the set, there were many emotional speeches given by each of the members when explaining the context of older tracks as well as ideas expressed in the newer ones. It felt like just another Yellowcard concert until Ocean Avenue came along, and everyone was hit with the fact that that was the last time seeing Yellowcard play live.

There’s something remarkable about watching a band grow over the years and connecting more and more with the music as time goes on. Even though this year will be Yellowcard’s last, their legacy and rock music will still be around for fans to enjoy.

Finally Yellowcard came out on stage with their popular violin introduction under banners — marking the beginning and ending years of the band. The

VIEWERS SEE THE REAL NEW ENGLAND IN “MANCHESTER BY THE SEA”

BY MARTIN ALLEN

There are films that come to define certain subcultures in regions of the country. Chicago has "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," Seattle has "Sleepless in Seattle," Salt Lake City has "SLC Punk" and New York has too many to list. With director Kenneth Lonergan’s recent masterpiece, "Manchester by the Sea," currently in theaters, one could make a case that it is the defining film of the coastal New England working class. The film stars the dynamic Casey Affleck as Lee Chandler, a man who has endured one of the greatest pains known to man: the death of his children. When his brother, Joe (played by "Friday Night Lights" standout Kyle Chandler) passes away, Lee is forced to look after his witty teenage nephew, Patrick.

Portrayed by young Lucas Hedges, Patrick exemplifies the Massachusetts teen to a perfect T (thick accent and excessive swearing included).

PHOTO COURTESY: INDIEWIRE

What sets this movie apart from other dramas, however, is that it conveys a very dramatic plot with wit, timeliness and humor to match — some of the characteristics that make New England such an attractive and unique area of America. Top billed in the cast is also Michelle Williams, who though does not see much screen time, plays a pivotal role in the film.

Viewers will walk away with an accurate sense of the true artistry of the younger Affleck brother, who has earned himself some award nods with his performance in the film.

"Manchester by the Sea" is poised to become a modern classic. Besides a tragically beautiful plot, the film also boasts beautiful panoramas and an illuminating view of what life is like for many working-class New Englanders. 4/4 stars.

“MANCHESTER BY THE SEA” IS PLAYING IN THEATERS NATIONWIDE NOW.

22

HAUTE CULTURE

W27

MOVIE REVIEW

BY ANDREA NAVARRO

If there’s one thing that “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” accomplished rather fantastically, it was demonstrating that there is more to the Harry Potter universe than the Boy Who Lived. The world can be expanded successfully and still remain magical even without the young wizard that most of the franchise’s target audience grew up with.

The adventures of Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne), our new protagonist, and his peculiar group of friends during the Roaring Twenties in New York are distinctly different to the ones in which Harry, Hermione and Ron found themselves in Great Britain during the ‘90s and early ‘00s — yet they are just as exciting and sometimes even darker.

missing beasts should be the focal point, but there’s also a sect of magic-fearing protesters trying to expose every witch they can get their hands on while also adopting by force the children of the wizards they expose. Also, there’s an unsettling predatory relationship between the son of the protestors’ leader and MACUSA’s (the American Ministry of Magic) chief Auror. There’s even the imminent threat of the very powerful dark wizard Gelled Grindelwald. For a Harry Potter superfan, it might be entertaining and thrilling, but for anyone else, it sets a frantic pace that at times is hard to follow.

That’s not to say that the film is perfect, of course. With a script penned by J.K. Rowling herself (her screenplay debut), the expectation was that the multiple person perspective could be handled more seamlessly, but instead it came out rather dispersed.

Yes, the movie has its flaws. However, as the prequel to one of the most beloved book and film series of the past century, it was set to be highly scrutinized. After it was announced that the franchise will consist of five movies before the first one was even released, it’s understandable that there are several plotlines left unexplained — allowing Rowling to start the process of worldbuilding.

There are too many plot points going on at any given moment. Newt looking for his

The cast is great, but Eddie Redmayne is simply too lovable in his starring role as Newt

Scamander. You can’t help but empathize with him and become invested in his quest, especially when we get to see him interacting with his fantastical creatures— or the very best CGI that a $180 million budget can buy. It’s really interesting to watch his character try, and sometimes fail, to connect with people while he’s so capable of understanding his creatures.

So much does he love the beasts that he later publishes a book with the intention of educating wizards and witches about them and their harmless nature. The book calls for understanding and tolerance, the same message of the movie, and is consequently called, well, “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” — a required text for Harry Potter and his fellow Hogwarts students.

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” is a strong start for the new film series — leaving fans guessing where Newt and company are off to next. A yet-to-be cast young Dumbledore is expected, but not much else is known. For fans everywhere, the countdown for the next movie has already started.

Where You Lead… We Will Follow

BY ROHINI MIKKELSEN “I’m busy today. The new season of ‘Gilmore Girls’ just came out” was not a sentence expected to be spoken in 2016 — almost 10 years after the final episode of the series aired. On Nov. 25, Netflix graced the Stars Hollow fan club with a new season of the hit show titled “Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life.” This post-Thanksgiving miracle includes four episodes: Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall, each 90 minutes long.

Given that this triumphant return is happening a decade later, it would seem natural that cast members had moved on to bigger projects and would not have enough time or interest to revive their old roles. But let’s face it, the show is only as good as the quirky characters, and they all showed up to play their parts. Lorelei, Rory, Emily, Luke, Jess, Suki and Lane— they are all there, looking remarkably agedefying and as charming as ever.

The four-part return of the series was rumored to have been created to bring closure and resolve some unanswered questions after season 7. Some ends were definitely tied, while others were left very much open. The viewers get to see Lorelei, Rory and Emily face their problems and try to find peace in their lives while also coming to terms with the fact that although things in their lives may change, it is still very possible to get stuck in one place. Another important piece to this unexpected return is that no matter how old a viewer was when the original series aired, he or she can still find a sense of familiarity and sisterhood within the modern Gilmore Girl. The viewers get an opportunity to see their own issues, struggles and triumphs epitomized by Emily, Lorelei or Rory.

“Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life” will make an original fan feel just as warm and fuzzy as the series did 10 years ago with the expected fast-paced banter between Lorelei and Rory, as well as the solid and steady support of Luke and Emily’s clever, never meek mouth.

The original writers and producers are still behind the wheel and the magic of Stars

Hollow is still very much alive.

The final four words of “Fall” did not seem like the true end to the series, but rather like an invitation to envision what could happen next. So take a break, procrastinate and check out the new season on Netflix.

PHOTO COURTESY: WYN LOK VIA FLICKR

The Gilmore Girls Are Back

DECEMBER 2016 23

FIT

A CITY IN PROTEST NEW YORKERS REACT TO THE ELECTION

PHOTOS BY

Kathleen Legakis

When I heard that Donald Trump would be the president-elect, I was extremely distraught and didn't know how to handle myself. I want to make my way into the field photojournalism, so I began attending the protests every night.

These photographs are the sights that I saw while I walked across Manhattan. I marched among tens of thousands of loving, supportive and determined people for that entire week. This is something that will stay with me as my life goes on.

One moment that stuck with me was walking up to 5 grown men harassing a young girl who was peacefully protesting. These images mean so much to me, and I am so glad to have the chance to share them with people.

PHOTO COURTSEY: KATHLEEN LEGAKIS

24 MY FELLOW AMERICANS

W27

DEAR PRESIDENT-ELECT TRUMP

BY CAMERON CHAMBLEE

Politics is something that I've always been very passionate about, and I know I'm an outlier here at FIT, in New York, and in the fashion industry as a whole in regards to my political views. The day after the election, I witnessed people that were hurting, people that were scared for their future — many of whom are my friends, my classmates and people that I respect and admire. They can't wrap their head around why, me, as a gay individual could have voted for someone who has ostracized so many minorities?

To that end, I sent President-elect Trump a letter to express what his nomination, and subsequent goals, mean to me. It may not go anywhere, but if it can help one person feel more hopeful, that's all that matters. It's my job as a Trump supporter to rise above and inspire and make a difference, even if it's the smallest difference. Our country is extremely divided, and I truly believe that when we take the time to stop and listen to one another and stop magnifying our differences, that's when we will be able to come together.

I implore anyone to seek out someone who they disagree with and ask questions, open up a conversation and explain your views. At the end of the day it's not about who's a Republican or a Democrat. It's not about who voted for Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton, or who's on the right or wrong side of an issue. We all live in this country as Americans and more importantly we are all human beings and it's time for us to start treating each other as such.

NOVEMBER 14, 2016

On July 21, 2016, I watched you give your acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention and you stated, “As your President, I will do everything in my power to protect our LGBTQ citizens from the violence and oppression of a hateful foreign ideology.” It was at that pivotal moment you had secured my vote. Now, when those in my community ask me why I voted for you this is what I can confidently tell them.

I chose to cast my vote for something greater than myself — an ideal that goes exponentially beyond just me and this snapshot moment of my life and the lives of my LGBTQ family. We can no longer foolishly diminish the dangerous threat that has continued to grow like a cancer in the Middle East.

It is something very real, it is something that is coming ever quicker and it is something that must be stopped…period. The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) has been growing and their radical ideology of the Muslim faith is something that targets me first and foremost as a gay individual, but more importantly as an American. So, while my friends and peers may be worried about LGBT rights for tomorrow, I am worried about LGBT rights forever.

If ISIL succeeds in their vision and is not permanently eradicated, we as an LGBT community will be the first targeted and killed. There will not even be the slimmest chance of hope for a conversation about the preservation and positive progression of human rights, gender equality, women’s rights and all the things liberal and social policies fight for in their humanitarian efforts, because these American ideals mean absolutely nothing to the evil forces of ISIL.

Dear President-Elect Trump, First and foremost, I want to extend my sincerest congratulations on this momentous victory which you have achieved. I have renewed excitement for what my own future holds because of what happened at the polls on November 8, 2016.

On June 16, 2015, when you announced your bid to run for the President of the United States, I, like so many Americans, waited in anticipation to see how far you would go and what the outcome of that journey would be. More importantly, as someone outside the political arena, you were “one of us” and your courage sparked a ‘silent’ passionate bravery in us that had been hiding somewhere deep within our country for far too long. I commend you on that incredible feat. Against the odds, you persevered and proved to the American people that you, indeed, will be the champion we so desperately need.

I want to tell you about who I am — a view through the window of myself and my heart. My name is Cameron Chamblee. I am from Houston, Texas and currently a junior at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City working towards my degree in Advertising & Marketing Communications. I am also of the LGBT community and this generation of young voters that is now commonly referred to as “millennials.” Based on these parameters, I’m sure most would have presumed that my vote for president in this election would have been cast for Hillary Clinton. Alas, I cast my vote for you, undoubtedly with an extreme amount of faith. Putting aside my own selfish ideals and with what I believe was a selfless attitude, I cast my vote for the candidate, the man, I believe will make my life and the lives of all Americans safe again, prosperous again and GREAT again.

Being a young, gay conservative voter here in New York, I am unfortunately in the minority. Since last Tuesday, I have received more than my share of backlash from my peers. I know there is empathy, as you have received a tremendous amount of backlash, and criticism and attempts to malign your character as well and while futile, they still existed and had their effect.

However, much like you, I have a resilience and my convictions, while challenged, have not wavered. I have been asked countless times over this past week to explain exactly why I cast my vote for you, to explain how I reconcile my conscience to what seems an unlikely decision. I readily explain that there is a much bigger picture, and it must not be overlooked. I am finding that, through respectful discourse, my reasoning seems to be resonating with these individuals — giving them permission to consider a different perspective and point of view than they previously had. I would like to share that reasoning with you in hopes you might find it useful in making a deeper connection with these minorities and young voters.

Mr. Trump, you have sparked such a passion within me and I am truly confident and excited about what my future holds as a young, gay American with you as my President. I am writing this with the hope that you receive it and give me an opportunity to actively work with you and your administration in connecting with the disenfranchised and minorities of our country. It would be my greatest honor to fill a position on your team as a liaison to my fellow young voters and minorities and millennials but more importantly to help you succeed in being the best President this country has ever seen.

I look forward to hearing back from your campaign.

Sincerely, Cameron Chamblee

DECEMBER 2016 25

FIT

I Feel ____________: FIT Reacts to the 2016 Presidential Election

BY ROHINI MIKKELSEN AND SOPHIA OSTAPENKO

"

I feel sad for students, who because of the length and intensity of the primaries and the election process, end up being so divided, instead of just people with different points of view. The extreme polarizing effect of campaigning in America makes us forget that we have more in common than not.

I feel the choice that the United States made reflects the rise of populism that is evident not just in America, but also in parts of Europe and Asia. People are rejecting globalism because governments have not addressed the problem of increasing economic inequality, and the poor mistakenly believe protectionist policies will ‘bring jobs back.’ I feel this is wake up call for everyone. We have to work towards greater access to opportunity for all people.

"

-Professor Madhumeeta Roy, Fashion Business Management

"

I feel that we are in danger of reversing all of the achievements we've seen in the past twenty years. That's my big fear. Trump promises to bring back all those jobs that supposedly went overseas. What I say is: all those manufacturing jobs are as dead as Lazarus and Trump is not Jesus.

"

-Professor Neil Brownlee, Advertising Marketing and Communications

"

"

It worries me about what may happen to the progress that we've made, however, I'm more determined to vote in 2018 more than ever -Madison Donaldson, One-year AAS Advertising and Marketing Communications major

"

"

When I woke up to the election results I felt really down. But I had to remind myself to stay optimistic about the future of this country and to stay off of social media in the meantime.

-Ellen Reid, First Year Advertising and Marketing Communications major

“I can’t say I’m so happy about the outcome. I feel that Hillary should have won. Also that our future is based off of it. I don’t believe that Trump is best for our future. I just have to let it basically take its course and see what he has in store for us and see how that takes place on our lives.”

“I’m horrified, but more horrified by the choices for the Supreme Court justices. Yeah, I just think it’s a pretty big setback for human rights in general, and it sucks. I feel like we have been so progressive the past 10 years. Yeah, it is crazy.”

-Xavier Collazo, Fourth Year Graphic Design major

-Joey Macalle, Fourth Year Illustration major

“Well, it was very unexpected. I felt like somebody died. It was just really devastating, and I had family members delete me off Facebook. It’s kind of ridiculous. I have a lot of distrust in people. I thought we were a better country. I thought we were progressive. It’s really scary that everybody has come out of hiding and feel it’s okay to be blatantly racist and sexist and everything else that’s going on.”

“Honestly, it’s a really horrible outcome — nobody was expecting this. As a gay person, I am terrified right now. I have seen a lot of my friends struggling.

I have a friend who is rescheduling their wedding for next month because of them being scared. Because they also moved to a red state recently as well. So, a lot of fear and a lot of paranoia. I have seen a lot of ugly sides come out from people I have known for years. It’s just been a horrible time for everybody.

I feel like now is when we need to work even harder to make sure all the progress we’ve made over the past eight years isn’t undone in the next four.”

-Dani Esposito, Second Year Textile Development and Marketing major

-Kara Higgins, Fourth Year Illustration major

26 MY FELLOW AMERICANS

W27

A Family Politically Divided: How I’ve Learned from My Parents Voting for Trump

BY TAYLOR KOONTZ

In fifth grade, my class performed a mock voting exercise for the 2008 election. Not knowing anything about politics at that age, I simply voted for whom my parents liked: Senator John McCain, the Republican nominee. When my class’ “votes” were in, McCain won by a landslide. Looking back this is not surprising to me, as I grew up in a very conservative area of Virginia. It wasn’t until high school that I realized I wasn’t a Republican like my parents. All my life they had told me that “The Right was right,” and I had naively believed them.

sense to me. It seemed like they had been succumbed to Fox News and the fake articles found on Facebook — refusing to believe that any other view could be right.

My parents aren’t racist or sexist, and I believe that they simply were lied to and misinformed by false propaganda throughout the entire election.

After moving to New York in August, I stopped speaking to my parents about politics. When on the phone with them, it was almost as if the election wasn’t

Twitter and Instagram, millions of people expressed their fear, anger and grief. A country that was supposedly founded on freedom had elected a president that openly supported the oppression of LGBT’s, minorities’ and women’s rights. A president that doesn’t believe in global warming or care for the environment. A president that chose a running mate that believes in conversion therapy. I felt nothing but guilt and sadness knowing that my parents had contributed to that.

the majority of political issues, we are still family, and I wanted to understand their side of things even though it seemed scary and uncomfortable to bring up.

If, as a nation, we don’t try to understand where Trump, Hillary or Third Party supporters are coming from, we’ll never make a progression toward unity. We need to be able to come together

as a nation and learn from each

When I first developed more liberal views as a teenager, my parents tried to convince me that I was wrong. They claimed that the “liberal ways of the media” had influenced me — that it was just a phase, and I’d get over it eventually. These words came as a shock to me. Why were my parents, who I knew loved me, not supporting my decision to have my own political views?

As my teenage years went on, and my political views became a more significant part of my character, my parents dropped the subject. But I knew when the 2016 Presidential Election was approaching, we would have issues once again as the divide in our family’s political views became stronger.

During the primary season, I was a strong supporter of Bernie Sanders. My parents, overwhelmed by the number of Republican candidates, ended up voting for John Kasich. My parents respected my decision to vote for Bernie, and I respected their decision to vote for Kasich. Although we did not agree with each other’s views, we both found these candidates to be respectable.

As the general election drew near, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump were announced to be the Democratic and Republican nominees. Tension grew in our family once again. I knew that my parents would never vote for Hillary Clinton, and I knew they wouldn’t vote for a third party candidate. No matter how much I tried to deny it, I knew deep down that my parents were going to vote for Donald Trump — a man who supports racism, sexism and hate.

My parents are smart, welleducated and loving. To see them support Trump didn’t make any

PHOTO COURTSEY: TONY WEBSTER VIA FLICKR

even happening even though it had become such a hot topic of discussion at FIT. Living in New York during the election season gave me a sense of comfort. I loved being surrounded by likeminded professors and students who valued the same causes I did.

However, as Nov. 8 got closer and closer, the pressing issue of my parents voting for Trump began to take over my thoughts. I talked to my friends at FIT about my dilemma and found that a lot of them were in the same boat as me. We all love our parents, but it broke our hearts to know that they were voting for Trump.

The night of the election, I watched in fear as the one thing I thought would never happen came true: Donald Trump won the election. My friends and I sat together in Alumni Hall, staring at a laptop in shock, not sure what to say about the news. On

A few days after the election I came across an article on ManRepeller called “Would You Disown Your Parents for Voting Trump?” There was one sentence in particular by Leandra Medine that really stuck out to me:

other if we want there to be any change. I don’t think this means that we need to agree, but just acknowledging these views will help us sew up the pieces of the United States that have become so divided by this past election.

“There is a profound difference between tolerating a viewpoint that is explicitly racist or xenophobic and simply acknowledging that these views exist. I really do believe that we must acknowledge. Because if we don’t, we go on believing it’s not actually there, anticipating that if we believe it hard enough, it will go away. As yesterday [the election] proved, that is not the case.”

This winter break, I’m going to find the courage to sit down with my parents and ask them why they voted for Trump and explain to them why I voted for Hillary. Even though I know their views may be hard for me to understand or accept, I love them and I feel like I should let their opinions be heard.

If you’re in the same boat as me, whether it’s your parents, siblings, cousins or grandparents that voted for a different candidate than you, I encourage you to do the same.

Together, we can learn to care for America and start taking steps forward, not taking steps back.

This statement made me realize how little I had asked my parents about why they were Republican and why they voted for Trump.

Although we may not agree on

DECEMBER 2016 27

FIT

HOFIT

BY KAYLA RENSHAW &MEGHAN KANE

Nico Apperti Hometown: Pietrosita, Romania Major: Advertising & Marketing Communications Is there a song right now that you can’t stop listening to?

“Ruby Tuesday” by the Rolling Stones.

Where is your favorite place to go when you’re stressed in the city?

Father Demo Square. It’s peaceful, and it’s quiet. And I feel like I’m not in the city when I’m there — I feel like I’m in Europe. Everything

is quiet and peaceful, and there’s the fountain — everything is overwhelmingly breathtaking. It’s a good place to clear your head.

your vulnerability. I’ve always looked up to her. When I met her, she treated me like I was one of her friends, and I ran into her on the street.

Who do you look up to the most?

Is there anything that you are looking forward to?

Caroline Vreeland. I’ve always been really fond of her because I felt like she sort of stood out against all of the social media “cookie cutter” stars, and she’s always been someone prominent and truthful and expressing

My family from Romania coming to America for the first time.

PHOTO COURTESY: KAYLA RENSHAW

Katie Smith Hometown: Sarasota, Florida Major: Fashion Business Management Is there a song right now that you can’t stop listening to?

Anything by The 1975. I’m a huge The 1975 fan. Mainly “Me,” “Intro/Set 3” and “You.” I relate to their music on multiple levels and I’m obsessed with all of the band members.

Where is your favorite place to go when you’re stressed in the city?

Wherever my friends are.

Who do you look up to the most?

Honestly I look up to many different people for many different reasons. I look up to Matty Healy from The 1975 for his honesty when he performs. I look up to my mother for her endless love and care for my family. I look up to my friends because they are all so strong and beautiful young women. Also I look up to Bernie Sanders for fighting for what he believes in. The list honestly

goes on and on.

Is there anything that you are looking forward to?

(Hopefully) studying abroad over the summer in Berlin, London and Florence for the international buying and marketing program through the school. I feel like the best way to grow as a person is through travel and experiencing/living in different cultures.

PHOTO COURTESY: KAYLA RENSHAW

Nicolas Galvis Hometown: Quindio, Colombia Major: Advertising & Marketing Communications

PHOTO COURTESY: KAYLA RENSHAW

What are your thoughts on when I say, "Let's go on a dating in New York City? date." In an area as urban as this one, there's really no Dating in New York is exciting. good reason as to why two This is a huge metropolis, people should be chatting for and I think that dating can a long time if their intention is open your eyes to a large to meet. amount of different people with different stories and different opinions. I typically What is one goal you want use Tinder and, personally, achieve over winter break?

I'm someone who prefers to get right to the point. I'm not Over winter break I want on Tinder to make friends or to finish up the spring and talk to someone for weeks or summer 2017 illustrations months, so it's always very that I have picked out for my early in the conversation art Instagram @superrunway.

I enjoy dedicating time to these illustrations because it combines comic book women and fashion, which are two concepts I love, but it's a very time-consuming hobby. And with a theme related to the fashion calendar, it's a little embarrassing to be posting pre-fall 2016 illustrations now, which is what I'm doing, even though most stores have sold out of their pre-fall collections by this point. I want to catch up to the fashion calendar and in turn legitimize the purpose of my Instagram.

28 STYLE ON 27

W27

STYLE ON 27

BY CARMEN LI

Goodbye 2016, Hello 2017

What is your New Year’s resolution? Any reflections on 2016?

SOPHIA OSTAPENKO, AMC

“I would say this year was one of the best and worst years of my life. I’m grateful for the fact that I kept my strength throughout the entire year instead of giving up.”

SI FAN CHEN, FD

“For my New Year wish, I want to get a internship in a highend company.”

MAYA CECILE JEAN, FD

“I want to get into my style more. So my New Year’s resolution will be not to be afraid of dressing up and make the clothes I like because I can make time for myself to make clothes outside of school work, instead of just focusing on school work.”

BRIANNA DUZICH, AMC

“Trying to get an internship and keep on going I think. And also try to figure out what I want to do and focus on that in the next year.”

JENNIFER GUERRON, CD

“I just want to get an internship in my major — hopefully something design related or fashion companies. Even though my major isn’t fashion related, I do enjoy fashion in every way.”

JIANG YANG, FD What is your New Year’s resolution? Any reflections on 2016?

“My New Year’s resolution is to meet someone who can buy me BULGARI! Just kidding. I think my New Year’s resolution is to have an internship in a big company.”

RAQUEL REEDN, FBM

AMELIE LAMONT, AMC

“I would like to say that I want to keep striving to be the best and try to do my best throughout the next semester. And always keep in positive vibes.”

“Get straight A’s!!! Cause I work outside of FIT so I already have a job. I think straight A’s is pretty much what I need for next year.”