NewYear
SPECIAL ISSUE
december
STAFF favorites Katie’s Favorite Instagram:
“Watch’ya got there?? Oh yea... The lovely December issue of Your Magazine!”
Elijah’s Favorite Blog Post: My Life is a Sitcom
Dinesh’s Favorite Blog Post: Cyber-sad
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LETTER from the EDITORS
hh January… the month of post-holiday bliss. Your body has finally recovered from its massive intake of ham and pie and your wallet is starting to expand after the incredible amount of gifts you had to buy for family members you only see twice a year. Your resolutions have been made, and in some cases already broken, and you are ready to look forward and take on the New Year with a new burst of energy and outlook. But now is also the time to reflect on what you have accomplished, so that’s exactly what Your Mag has done. We are using this special issue to thank each and every member of the organization who have spent all semester putting together our last four issues. You will find pages dedicated to each team on our staff; from the designers who make each page of the magazine interesting and appealing, to the copy editors who work tirelessly to keep our grammar in check and make sure each article is polished and ready for print, and everyone in between. Our Writers have also been preparing to showcase what the Emerson community is looking forward to, from what student works you can look will be seeing in the Spring to the next big trends in fashion. We are also thankful to welcome some new staff members aboard for February! So as Co-Editor in Chiefs, Kilian and I would like to thank our entire staff and readers for taking the time out of your incredibly busy Emerson schedules to show up for meetings, stick to our tough deadlines, and read our final products. So this issue isn’t just any Your Magazine, it’s also Our Magazine! Love Always, Kilian Webster and Emily Tannenbaum
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YOUR introduction
featured 6
Meet Your Romance Section Get at the heart of the Romance section and learn about what they loved in 2012 and look foward to in 2013.
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Meet Your Fashion Section Find out why Fashion is excited about plaforms and learn about their favorite upcoming trends.
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Meet Your Features Section Hear from the staff and take a glance at the hot button issues in politics over the past year and upcoming issues in the next.
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Meet Your A&E Section Learn about A&E’s favorite movies, albums, TV shows, and books from 2012 and listen to the playlist of the year.
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Meet the Rest of Our Staff Enjoy a special look behind the scenes at the Styling, Photography, Design, Marketing, Copyediting, and Your Mag TV staffs.
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Editor-in-Chief Kilian Webster asst. editor emily Tannenbaum creative director Pete Ivanecky MANAGING EDITOR Olivia Jacobini BUSINESS DIRECTOR Elijah Clark-Ginsberg DESIGN EDITOR Katie Lohman PHOTO DIRECTOR Stephanie Fishbein HEAD STYLIST Emily Lacroix MARKETING MANAGER Reed Van Dyck YMtv DIRECTOR Lyndsay Cannon
romance Writers Daniel LeMar Ashley Juranich Kristine Ustas Jenny Hannigan Hannah Perrin Shannon Dwyer Mollie Coyne Shantal Erlich Sydney Lester Nathalie Nelles
Fashion Writers Elijah Clark-Ginsberg Haile Lidow Andrew Favorito Dinesh Mohnani Samantha Dupler Mika Nakano Ian Mofford Megan Kay Lola Bitton Victoria Hulbert Kelsey Drain Jennifer Ortakales Mollie Coyne Emily Lacroix
FASHION EDITOR Valeria Navarro FEATURES EDITOR Christina Jedra Asst. Features Editor Nancy Valev A&E Editor Nick Johnston
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Devan Norman Caitlyn Budnick Olivia Jacobini Morgan Metz Janella Angeles Megan Tripp Kelsey Perkins Alexia Kyriakopoulou
Photographers Alex Fierro-Clarke Brian Annis Mimi Vecchione Hope Kauffman David Galinato Meredith Cohen Kathleen Collins Brian Lynch Zeynep Abes Alicia Carroll Carolina Chau Lauren Foley Michael Thorpe Maddie Rain
STYLISTS
features Writers Beth Treffeisen Emily Labes Gina Brindisi Julia Higgins Anna Rose Pingeton Lindgren Matthew Mullen
MARKETING
ROMANCE EDITOR Claudia Mak
Copy editors
Maria Vivas Elise Mesa Jamie Iannace Melanie McFadyen Megan Nicholson Virginia Johnson Jacob Greene
EVENTS COORDINATOR Melanie McFadyen
Layout design Claudia Mak Jacqueline Thomas Bekah Skopil David Galinato Adam Reynoso Megan Tripp Teresa Garigen Madison Fishman Tanya Wlodarczyk
Bonnie Ong Audrey Geiger Tubao Nguyen Kristen Brice Megan Nicholson Andrew Favorito Yu Qu Dinesh Mohnani Rhianna Reinmuth Alexis Cervantes Nikki Frangella Shannon Dwyer Jennifer Ortakales
a&e Writers Miles Bowe Regina Mogilevskaya Jackson Birnbaum Caroline Cassard Hunter Harris Charles Nash Cedrine Sterit
Yourmag tv
Amanda Gomez Lindsay Gualtieri Ashley Juranich Hannah Perrin Terrena Scannell Chen Xu Virginia Johnson
YOUR introduction
romance 6 7 8 9
A Clique of Hopeful Romantics Love Resolutions What We Loved in 2012 What We Look Forward to in 2012
fashion 10 11 12 13
Platforms: Keep ‘em Coming The Best and Worst Fashion Moments of 2012 Staff Favorites Fashion Trends We Look Forward to
features 14 16 17
Politically Incorrect Pinterest Crafts for Your Winter Blues Meet Your Features Staff
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Our Favorite Movies & TV Shows of 2012/Staff Picks Best Albums of 2012 Meet the Staff/New Years Playlist
special: meet the staff 22 23 24 25 26 27
Styling: Stylistic/Meet the Stylists Photography: What We Do Design: Putting Faces to the Designs Marketing: Staff Favorites Copyediting: Behind the Scenes Your Mag TV: Meet the Staff
contents
arts&entertainment
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a clique of hopeful romantics Romance is an awfully broad subject that is interpreted by all ambiguously. Love hurts, love liberates, and love is a game; but one thing is for sure: we all love differently. Every romantic experience is vastly distinct and always personal. What the hell do Cosmo writers know about healing my broken relationship? Are they mighty Aphrodite’s contributing their extensive knowledge on the how’s and how-not’s of dealing with delicate issues in relationships? I don’t think so! Standard romance magazine writing is also rigidly heterosexual. Not only do we live in a world where numbers of sexualities and genders exist, we also belong to a microcosm of sexual diversity here at Emerson. I am sick of seeing articles that tell women what they can do for their men, or what men should expect from their women. It is 2012; a different world where gender roles in relationships are becoming blurred and I have absolutely no intention of endorsing those norms. I had very straightforward goals for the romance section of Your Magazine this semester: Be inclusive of all sexualities and genders, be respectful of all people romantic or not, and offer all-encompassing advice applicable to everyone in their romantic endeavors. We have accomplished these goals in satirical articles about the gay world of dating, getting kinky, finding out how students feel about BDSM, and even have blogs analyzing the attractiveness of androgyny. None of us think so highly of ourselves to tell you how to direct your lives, but we do hope that you will take what we write seriously, and apply it in your own way to your relationship if you choose. We’ve got real, unconditional love for our readers and that’s all we know how to give. ;)
What we do:
We meet a couple times throughout the month to work on our articles. First is the pitch process, where we lay our ideas out and help build on them as a team. Second, we meet together to workshop pieces and give advice for the writer’s on how to improve. Sometimes we’ll hold an extra meeting just to catch up on what’s happening during the process and make sure everything is running smoothly.
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Why we do it: Daniel LeMar
Shannon Dwyer
“I really enjoyed writing for the Romance section this year. It was fun to write about what interests me and to see how others feel about various romantic subjects. My favorite article that I wrote was my latest one about people who are off limits. I was able to learn a lot from my interviews and liked getting to know people on a personal level. I also enjoyed our staff workshops; it was fun to see the evolution of an article and to be able to put my two cents in!”
Ashley Juranich
“I've enjoyed everything about the romance section this semester because there was so much variety within articles that everything was so interesting and entertaining. There's never a dull moment in the romance section and that's why I love it. I enjoy writing about my romance life and sharing every story I have even if it's way to personal. Sometimes those are the best stories.”
Kristine Ustas
“My favorite part about writing for the romance section of Your Mag was feeling like I had the authority to ask people intimate questions about their love life without it being awkward. It’s awesome how lots of people were so willing to open up about anything from sex to their personal love dramas. I thought Nathalie Nelles article in the November was super intriguing because I felt like I was getting a glimpse of her little black book.”
Claudia Mak
Romance Editor
“As a hopeless romantic, love can be a real bummer. That’s where writing helps, by getting thoughts and ideas down onto paper. From working on Your Mag this semester, I’ve gained a better understanding on relationships, whether they are the ones around me or my very own. I’ve had so much fun getting to know and having the chance to work with the rest of the staff. I cannot wait where our articles take us next!”
YOUR romance
“I want to go on more dates with my boyfriend.” -Jennifer Ortakales “I just want to have fun! I don’t want to overthink relationships or let it stress me out.” -Shannon Dwyer “I want to work on compromising more.” -Emily LaCroix “To get off my lazy ass and make the effort to pursue people instead of expecting them to pursue me”Kristine Ustas “To be more appreciative of my husband’s hard work.”- Emily Clark “I want to be more open to meeting a guy and if I do find him then to just go along with it.” -Nallely Beltran “I would like a boy to talk to me.” - Sarah Barnahard “To be more open to new relationships.” - Izzy Hobbib “Love myself. I don’t want to be an insecure girl. I’ve been told it’s not sexy, or cute, and they’re right. And only I can really change that. I have to remind myself that I shouldn’t base my worth off of other people. I can’t be someone’s girlfriend if I don’t treat myself right!” - Ali Dokus “To stop making love with myself so much and find someone else” -Dave Gibhart, guy at Starbucks “I want to focus on one girl and be the hopeless romantic that I know I can be” -Brandon Wolf, other guy at Starbucks
love resolutions for
2013
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what we loved in Shannon: The marriage of Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel As a lifelong NSYNC fan, I was super excited to hear that this dynamic duo finally tied the knot. The couple, adorably nicknamed TimberBiel, had been dating for nearly five years, so it was about time! I wish these two the best of luck and am crossing my fingers they have children soon- how adorable would they be?! Ashley: Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux getting Engaged Finally! Jennifer has found love! After getting cheated on by Brad Pitt, ruining their five year marriage, Jennifer was heart broken. She tried moving on by starting and ending relationships with Vince Vaughn, John Mayer, and british model Paul Sculfor. Finally she met Justin Theroux while on set filming a movie. The two connected and fell in love. Their engagement was announced on August 12., 2012. I am ecstatic that after all these years of bad relationships and consistent news about Brad and Angie that Jennifer has finally moved on and is ready to marry Justin. Hannah: Taylor Swift and Harry Styles got together (Haylor?) After Taylor Swift’s new song “I Knew You Were Trouble” was rumored to be about One Direction’s, Harry Styles, no one was too surprised to see the two celebs starting to canoodle in public. Let’s be real here, who isn’t excited about the new mega-star couple, Styles and Swift becoming an item? Sure, I’m a little upset they are both off the market, but all I’m waiting for is a love song duet by the couple.
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Danny: Anderson Cooper Coming Out We all saw it coming, but the silver fox’s announcement still managed to surprise. For years, he kept it an open secret, saying that his personal life shouldn’t interfere with his professional one. He came out via email, saying: "The fact is, I'm gay, always have been, always will be, and I couldn’t be any more happy, comfortable with myself, and proud." This marked a monumental step for being openly gay in America, but more importantly, it gives me hope that one day I could be Mr. Danny LeMar Cooper. Claudia: Don Draper’s New Wife Oh fat Betty, you poor thing, too bad no one really cares. Maybe we do pity her a bit, but hot damn does Don Draper upgrade her with his gorgeous new French-Canadian sexy secretary turned ad-woman Megan Calvet (played by Jessica Pare). She is utterly perfect and beautiful, but of course her flaws begin to show towards the end of the season (Don Draper could never be satisfied with a love life for too long or else this show would be cancelled). But, for the most part, she is just what he needed to find happiness; also the zou bisou bisou sequence and the lusty sex scenes help keep fans just as interested. Shantal: Brad and Angie’s engagement!! Finally Hollywood’s royal couple got engaged this past April, pressured by their 6 children. Despite previously stating "Angie and I will consider tying the knot when everyone else in the country who wants to be married is legally able," Pitt popped the question to his love of over 7 years. The couple that has been together since filming Mr. and Ms. Smith, are expected to get married in an intimate, family-oriented affair, were their kids will play a very important role.
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Kristine: Barack and Michelle Obama Hugging No matter your political stance, you’ve got to agree that the photo of President Barack and Michelle Obama hugging that was tweeted after he won the November election was too cute for words. It became the most liked and re-tweeted photo ever. Anyone else looking forward to four more years of this power couple? I sure am. Mollie: Our Newest Fictional Love Triangle Obsession Whether you can admit to being a Twihard or not, everyone knew about (and at sometime obsessed) over the Edward-Bella-Jacob love triangle that made up the problematic vampire series. However, Twilight was forced to take a back seat last spring as “The Hunger Games” movie premiered, introducing a new cast of heartthrobs to gush over.
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2012 1
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Put aside the fact that the movie focuses on teenagers being forced by the government to fight to the death in an arena broadcasted to the public, what was more interesting to watch was the easy chemistry between Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta (Josh Hutcherson), aka “Peenis” and their unfolding love throughout the movie. Throw in the always gorgeous Liam Hemsworth as Katniss’s longtime friend and other possible love interest, Gale, and you can wave bye-bye sexy vampires and hello extremely cunning, post-apocalyptic teens.
YOUR romance
what we look forward to in 1 2
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Shannon: The birth of Prince William and Kate Middleton’s baby! These two are one of my favorite couples. I am obsessed with Kate’s style and, come on, who doesn’t want to be a real-life Princess? The news came at the end of 2012 that the royal couple are expecting, and I cannot wait to follow the family in the upcoming year. The royal baby-to-be means a shake up in the royal line of succession. Due to some new changes to royal hierarchy laws, boys no longer take precedence over girls, so even if they have a girl, she'll be Queen someday! How awesome is that?! Danny: “The Carrie Diaries” on the CW I’m cringing as I write this. A die-hard fan of the original “Sex and the City,” I’m anxious for this prequel to air in January. It’s not going to be as bold or as sexy or as ridiculously fun as its predecessor, but it has potential, seeing as Carrie will be portrayed in her teen years, pre-Sarah Jessica Parker. The show will still bring up relevant questions to sex and love, something that has been missing on TV since “Sex” ended its run in 2004 (the movies don’t count). As “Gossip Girl” ends - after which I didn’t think there would be anything to look forward to next year - I need to find something new and glamorous to get addicted to, and this teen soap looks like it’s just the thing to get carried away with. And Samantha better make an appearance. I’m holding this show to that. Claudia: The Beautiful Union of Sherlock Holmes and John Watson in BBC’s Sherlock... (just kidding only in my dreams) All Sherlock fans saw how badly John Watson’s feelings were crushed during the series 2 finale “The Reichenbach Fall.” Therefore, it would only make perfect sense for Sherlock to re-enter John’s life as his lover. The two clearly are meant for each other and the on-screen chemistry is more than just a friendly bromance. Fans just want to see a kiss (although we know it isn’t likely). Shantal: Taylor Swift’s new album about her failed relationship with Harry Styles I'm not really sure when this will happen, but chances are it will, and soon! It is very well known that Taylor Swift looks for musical inspiration in her love experiences, making headlines for all the little hints to past lovers, like John Mayer, Joe Jonas, or Jake Gyllenhaal. Considering Harry’s reputation and status as player/cougar-hunter/tween-idol, I can't wait to see, or should I say, hear, all the dirt that will come out as soon as this young love fizzles.
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PLATFORMS: keep ‘em coming Text // Haile Lidow For the February 2012 issue of Your Mag, I wrote an article about the rise of the flat platform shoe. Now, it’s 2013, almost a year since then. But guess what? Flat platforms are still everywhere! And they keep getting bigger, both literally and societally. You look around campus and see creepers, platform sneakers, boots, an entire catalog of the trend. And it seems as if they are here to stay! Probably for a reason too: flat platform shoes give you the height of a heel without the pain of a steep incline, or the feeling of awkwardly being too dressed up for class. It’s a risk-free way to look good without actually having to bear the pain of a stiletto. Best of both worlds? Seems pretty awesome. With the Chloe Sevigny for Opening Ceremony platform sneakers that came out last spring, there was a boom in the design front, and a lot of designers took the bait, creating their own versions. The Jeffrey Campbell “Homg” was a huge hit this past summer, and the designer continues to turn out new variations on the shoe. Flower prints were for last season, but winter it up and check out their metallic silver or rose gold. You’ll be hitting two trends in one awesome staple to any fashionista’s wardrobe. And then there are the creepers, the British punk staple straight from the late 80s. The past few years we’ve seen a resurgence of the style, but up until recently you could only find the OG ones from brands like TUK. These are great, but they are not always very comfortable and are extremely heavy (i.e. beware if you have back problems). Now, you can find them all over, in many more colors and styles, and believe it or not, comfort! Walk all over Boston in these shoes, and no one will believe you but your feet will feel great and look great. So, look around, head down Newbury and stop in LF, Thom Browne, or Steve Madden. Or head online, to Nastygal, or UNIF, or browse the Jeffrey Campbell options. They have kick ass platform creepers and sneakers that will be sure to give you that effortlessly cool look that so many it-girls are rocking today. Get a half size larger than usual, pile on the socks and head out into winter. You may be wearing a big coat but everyone will be sure to notice your shoes.
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YOUR fashion
the BEST and WORST fashion moments of 2012 Text // Fashion Staff
BEST
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Raf Simons debuts his first collection for Christian Dior. By far, the biggest moment in fashion this year was the undertaking of Dior’s iconic label by the former creative director of Jil Sander. Simons redeemed the company after a year transition between designers, following the controversy and dismissal of John Galliano. Dior was became known for dated designs, however Simons refreshed their look with his Fall 2012 Haute Couture collection. He introduced A-line skirts, tailored pants, ballooning gowns, and bar jackets in a “New New Look” to reference classic Dior style with a modern and relevant take. Ombré explodes as the biggest color trend of the decade. Never before has a color trend reached past just clothing and onto hair styles, nail art, and makeup. The gradual gradient of color known as “ombré” has been done in every medium. Apart from apparel, the trend was translated into a hair dying technique, with the top half brown or black and the bottom half blonde. Pop stars such as Nikki Minaj and Jessie J made this popular at the beginning of the year and by the end of summer, virtually every brunette came back to school with blonde tips. The trend didn’t stop there. As nail art became more and more experimental, ombre took plainly painted nails into a dynamic harmony of monochromatic shades. It then appeared on the Spring 2012 runways as a lipstick trend. Makeup artists blended two analogous colors (or two colors that are next to each other on the color wheel) to create faded puckers of orange, fuchsia, purple, and red. Olympic gymnastics style changes the game. Everyone tuned in to see what the United States Women’s Gymnastics Olympic team would wear for their next competition. The Fab Five, as they were known, made every leotard sparkly and glam while still keeping the designs classy and not overdone. (material, crystals, etc) High slit gowns gain major attention on the red carpet. First, it was Angelina Jolie’s black, velvet gown at the Oscars that got everyone talking. There wasn’t a single pose caught on camera where she wasn’t extending her long leg out of the thigh-high slit of her dress. The next day memes and gifs made fun of her, but two months later, Anja Rubik took it one step further at the Met ball in May. Her white gown was cutout in the middle and the slit up her leg when all the way up to her sharp, super model hipbone. After such a stir on the red carpet, slit dresses and skirts became more popular on the spring 2013 runways this fall.
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The mustache motif is overused by social media, clothing companies, and hipsters. Leave it to hipsters to make an obscure design into an obnoxious icon of conformity. Since when did thick, bushy mustaches look good on anyone other than Johnny Depp and Brad Pitt? And yet there were more mustache t-shirts, mugs, hats, pillows, rings, and trinkets made this year than anyone would know what to do with. What really crossed the line was when mustache tattoos became popular. Yes, unfortunately a portion of the human population tattooed mustaches to their fingers…so even if they couldn’t grow their own, they could have one wherever they went. The last season of Gossip Girl forces fashion mavens to find a new stylish drama. We’ve become attached to Serena, Blair, Nate, Chuck, and Dan, following their prep-school teen years to their days of “real-life” internships and careers. Even as the plot’s quality diminished, the one thing that kept us watching was the fashion. From Blair’s stunning Marchesa gowns to Serena’s cool city girl style and from Chuck’s dapper suits to Dan’s beatnik sweaters, each character has a defined style that’s evolved since season one. Corduroy pants come back to life…but should’ve stayed in the graveyard. Whoever said it was okay to wear grandpa’s puke-brown corduroys was wrong. This fabric is not only unflattering on most body types because of its bulkiness, but it seems to only be available in unattractive colors. Some stores tried to do the trend in bright tones like aqua and magenta, but there is no other way to get around these horrible ribs than to not wear them. Kanye West gives Kim Kardashian’s wardrobe a complete makeover. Talk about making compromises for a relationship! Once “Kimye” began, Kim’s style would never be the same. Kanye put restrictions on what she could wear and her main color palette became black and more black. The two of them have become one style unit, sitting front row at Fashion Week in leather, fur, and studs.
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staff FAVORITES DINESH MOHNANI Major: Marketing Communications
Favorite Fashion Quote: “If you are tired of style, you are tired of life.” Charles Carson (Downton Abbey) Coming to Boston from a tropical country, I needed adapt to these seasonal wardrobes. It was hard, but then I found the label, THEORY. The brand thrives on contemporary design and invokes a sense of cool. Every piece is divinely cut and simple enough that you can accessorize and wear it with anything. In Boston, you can find it at Neiman Marcus, or shop their online store.
EMY LACROIX Major: Journalism
Favorite fashion quote: “If you look at any great fashion photograph out of context, it will tell you just as much about what’s going on in the world as a headline in The New York Times.” Anna Wintour This year I discovered Wanelo.com, and it changed my shopping life. Imagine Pinterest for shopping, it bring together cool clothing, decor, accessories and knick-knacks from all over the internet, and makes it way to easy to save and buy them. It’s a great way to find the most unique things at the best prices. I’m obsessed.
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VICTORIA HULBERT
Major: Writing, Literature, and Publishing
Favorite Quote: “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live and what is happening.” Coco Chanel I have always had a problem finding a good moisturizer for my face. I have awful combination skin, oily in some places, dry in others. Moving from the West coast to East was hard on my skin. The cold weather paired with the heated buildings dries out my skin but I am always worried that thick creams that promise moisture will bring breakouts with it. The best solution I found this year was Neutrogena’s Combination Skin Oil-Free Moisture. It can be found at CVS or most other drugstores and I promise you it’s gold!
YOUR fashion
fashion trends we LOOK FORWARD to Text // Mollie Coyne
The Great Gatsby:
The glamorous beauty of the 1920’s will be adapted exquisitely this summer in Baz Luhrmann’s reproduction of the tragic love story we all know and love as the The Great Gatsby. Though the story line is known to be captivating on it’s own, even a non-Gatsby lover may desire to see the film if only for the costumes. It’s been recently announced that designer Miuccia Prada, known for the famous fashion labels Prada and Miu Miu, will be altering 40 of her past designs for the movie’s stellar cast. Prada will be collaborating with current costume designer Catherine Martin, a promising duo that will be sure to adapt the classic 20’s glitz and glamour into jaw-dropping apparel. Not only will the premiere of this movie leave fashion lovers drooling over the gorgeous gowns and apparel, but it also provides yet another reason to channel your inner flapper and incorporate flamboyant feathers and blinding sparkles into your wardrobe. And of course, who doesn’t love a good 20’s themed party? heraldsun.com.au
The Inauguration:
Not only is this a major political event for our country, the fashion of the day will be something to look forward to as well. We’ve always been obsessed with First Lady Michelle Obama’s classic, flawless style, but now there are two more girls to admire for the fashion perfection. Now that Malia, 14, and Sasha, 11, are grown up, designers everywhere have had their eyes on them hoping they can be the lucky ones to have their name on these future fashionistas. Needless to say, we can expect these girls to impress us with their mature styles and enviable wardrobe, starting with the Inauguration in January. www.celebritybabies.people.com
The “Ugly” Sweater:
We joke around and throw ugly sweater Christmas parties, but is it possible that this hilarious piece of fashion may actually stick around all winter as our new favorite sweater? Definitely. Stores like Urban Outfitters and H&M are passionately promoting them, and though their interpretations may be on the spot, nothing beats a classic, 7$ thrift shop sweater. Make room comfy cable nits, the ugly sweaters are here to stay this year. www.urbanoutfitters.com
Velvet, Leather, and Fur:
Yes, the leather jackets and fur vests are having another go in the upcoming year. Accompanying them in will be the lovely velvet in the form of blazers and jackets. Not only are fur and leather having another go, but they’re also evolving into full fur coats and leather shorts. These trends are definitely not something to pass up on in the New Year! www.shopstyle.com
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Politically Incorrect looking backwards and forwards in politics Text // Emily Labes
Photography // Associated Press
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ow that the election is over and – in my opinion – the better man won, the good ol’ U.S. of A can finally try to rid the air of the nasty stench of political carnage and look forward. Despite the fact that many citizens may not be thrilled by President Obama’s reelection, the national outlook (as indicated by social media, of course) seems to be one of hope and optimism. I once had a history teacher who claimed that every president’s first term in office is dedicated to procuring a second term in office; in other words, a first-term president is always liable to lean more towards the middle of the political spectrum than he actually falls. By that logic, a second-term president is likely to become less inhibited, and really push for tangible change. At this point, I think all Americans can agree that change is necessary. But you simply can’t go forward without at least taking a glance back. So let us stop, take a moment to reflect on some of the hot-button issues of the 2012 presidential election, and hypothesize what will be done about these issues in the future.
gun control Before the election, it was a bit unclear just where President Obama stood on gun control. He has never opposed the Second Amendment, and even signed a bill into law that allows guns in National Parks. However, he has expressed a desire to institute "common-sense gun safety measures,” without really defining what those measures might be. However, with the horrifying tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut still fresh, maybe the president will finally produce a concrete proposal. Although White House representatives were not inclined to speak about gun control reforms in the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, it is evident that Washington will finally have to answer to gun control advocates.
immigration Many political theorists – liberal and conservative alike – have surmised that part of the Republican Party’s failure to command the majority is in part due to their lack of popularity among Latin Americans and other minorities. They believe that this will cause the conservative members of Congress to reassess their stance on immigration. Given that President Obama cited excessive Republican opposition as his reason for not pushing through a bill on immigration reform, the projected compromise does look promising. If you don’t believe me, ask Vice President Biden, who has said that he believes the next four years will bring about serious reforms on immigration policies.
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YOUR features
abortion It has been said that Governor Romney’s attempts to place restrictions on legal abortions is one of the primary reasons he lost the election – or at least a large portion of the female vote. But congratulations, ladies! It appears as though we will retain control of our own parts – at least for the next four years. President Obama has no plans of trying to get Roe v. Wade overturned, and has consistently been a pro-choice advocate.
same-sex marriage Now that Maine, Maryland, and Washington officially permit gay marriage, and the U.S. has its first openly gay senator in Tammy Baldwin, it seems that activists for gay rights have really gotten the ball rolling. Although the President said he supported same-sex marriage back in May, he still felt that it was an issue that should rest within the states’ powers. But now that the Supreme Court has agreed to hear not one, but two same-sex marriage cases, perhaps the president will take the hint and move to make same-sex marriage a federal issue.
the economy With the economy still down the toilet, it’s no wonder that the many issues that it encompasses still remain at the forefront of Americans’ minds. In his first four years in office, President Obama was unable to bring about any majorly beneficial economic reforms. Many are predicting that repairing the economy will continue to be the president’s greatest hurdle. Fortunately, affordable healthcare still remains a top priority. Unfortunately, taxes may be raised in the hopes of reducing the national deficit. Fortunately, the Bush tax cuts will officially expire at the end of this year. It also seems that there will be spending cuts to try to help minimize the deficit. The defense sector is one area that is predicting a great deal of said cuts. However, despite past failures, the president still staunchly supports the green energy initiatives, and would probably be likely to shell out some cash for effective ones. He believes that going green would ultimately help strengthen the U.S. economy because it would eliminate our dependence on foreign oil. Perhaps this potential spending could actually be beneficial for Mother Earth and the economy in the long run.
conclusion With the nation still hanging on a pivotal moment, one can only hope that the American people will not lose the enthusiasm they had for politics during the 2012 election. The excitement may be dying down, but our nation’s future is still uncertain. Personally, I’m just hoping that the frustration about our nation’s current state doesn’t prompt all of the intelligent, outspoken liberals to let themselves go and move to Colorado in search of greener pastures.
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pinterest crafts for your winter blues
Text // Gina Brindisi
During winter break, I often find myself struggling with all this free time I have for a change. Like most Emerson College students, I’m far too used to running around from class to class and meeting to meeting, so when the break rolls around, a month of idle time seems deadly. In the past, I’ve spent my breaks hibernating with tea in hand and Pinterest consuming my computer screen. But after a few weeks the same old routine gets a little dull. So to spice up my break a little bit this year, I decided to put my idle hands to work and actually try all those do-it-yourself projects (DIYs) that I so often repin but neglect to pursue. But before I could bust out my crafting gear, I had to scan my board for the crafts I was itching to do the most. And boy, was this difficult. There were so many DIYs pinned on my board that the month home wouldn’t have been enough time. So after searching through tons of pins, I decided to pick some of the more festive DIYs and then it was time to get my craft on.
White Hot Chocolate (Source: An Edible Mosaic)
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Wooden Snowman
(Source: Craftaholics Anonymous) When I first repined this one, I was overwhelmed with the cuteness, so the wooden snowman was an obvious choice. It’s an adorable decoration to keep around your apartment or dorm to remind you of the winter season that’s upon us. Although I was a bit discouraged when I found out that there was sanding involved (it sounded a bit too intense and involved for me) I found it was actually pretty simple. All I needed was 2 pieces of 4 x 6 wood, with a suggested length of 6 x 8.5 inches, some white paint and a paintbrush, some glitter, a black marker, sandpaper and some fabric. The fabric, for me, was the best part of this DIY. I loved picking out the scarves for the snow-people; it was a great way to customize them. Now I have these loveable snow-people to welcome friends into my dorm during these cold months.
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To me, nothing screams winter more than a nice, warm cup of cocoa, but since I’m not a big fan of rich dark chocolate, I always struggle with finding the perfect kind. When a recipe for white hot chocolate popped up on Pinterest, I pounced on the recipe - and I’m glad I did. To make this one you’ll need a cup of milk, a pinch of sea salt, ½ a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and white chocolate, of course. All you do is combine the milk, white chocolate and salt in a pan, and bring it to a simmer. Whisk for a bit and then turn off the heat and add in the vanilla. Then you have yourself a perfect cure for the cold winter weather. For an added bonus I decided to garnish the hot chocolate with whipped cream. I highly suggest it.
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Lace Lamp
(Source: Dosfamily) To tackle this one, you’ll need doilies or a lace tablecloth, wallpaper glue, a paintbrush, a large balloon, some string and a light fixture. You start out by blowing up the balloon as large as you want. Then paint the doilies with tons of glue and stick them to the balloon. To avoid a beginner’s mistake, make sure you overlap them so they connect. Then after some much needed drying time, you pop the balloon and attach it to string to be hung. Now I know it says it’s supposed to be a lamp but I ran into some trouble here. You’re supposed to cut a tear on top to slip in the light fixture and then sew it up. But since I barely passed home-ec in high school, I couldn’t sew it up properly. But still, this ball of lace in winter white makes for a pretty cool decoration dangling from my dorm room ceiling.
YOUR features
meet YOUR features staff QUESTION:
what’s your best writing advice?
Christina Jedra features editor Google stalk the people you look up to in the industry, and read their stuff. Note what they do well, model yourself after them, and write for YourMag!
MATT MULLEN features writer
gina brindisi features writer
My best writing advice is to always write. Even if it is on your iPhone, or on napkins while waiting in a restaurant, constantly practicing the act of writing ultimately helps you develop your ideas and make you a stronger writer.
To me, the key to writing is writing about something you enjoy. You’ll find the words will flow through your pen effortlessly if you enjoy the topic. So go out, find something that truly sparks your interest and write about, you’ll find it will be much easier than you anticipated, I promise!
Julia higgins features writer
Emily LABES features writer
I feel awkward sharing writing advice since I don’t believe I’m really qualified to give it, but I will say that it’s always important to remember whom it is that you’re writing for. In my writing, the audience dictates the overall mood and the message of the story.
BETH TREFFEISEN castle blogger Always go over your work with an AP Style Book and a critical mind. You will always find something that you’ve missed.
During the revision process, be sure to put some distance between yourself and the piece you’re working on. Nothing beats a fresh perspective.
Nancy valev castle blogger
Oh man. It’s difficult for me to give writing advice seeing as I learn new ways to improve my own writing every day, so I can hardly call myself a credible source for advice. What I have found is that it all comes down to being honest in your writing. You just have to believe in what you write, and like it. If you don’t, chances are the reader won’t either.
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favorite MOVIES and TV SHOWS of 2012 Text // Your Mag A&E Staff
The Master
The Weinstein Company
best of MOVIES The Avengers/The Cabin in Zero Dark Thirty: The Master/Looper: the Woods: When it was announced last year that Kathryn Man, the last two weeks of September Confession time: I’ve never been the world’s biggest Joss Whedon fan, but after this year, I’m going to have to rethink all of my opinions. The man’s given us two of the best mainstream blockbusters in God knows how long (or, at least, contributed to the latter’s screenplay), and for that, and introducing the phrase “mewling quim” back into the popular lexicon, I’ll be forever grateful. The Avengers may be the best translation to the actual workings and plotting of a comic book to film, and in addition, it contained some of the best action I’ve seen all year (aside from The Raid: Redemption, of course). It’s a fun reminder that these kinds of superheroics weren’t extinguished by the grim’n’gritty thematics of filmmakers like Christopher Nolan. On the other hand, Cabin in the Woods was a truly excellent surprise, akin to buying a grab bag of records at a junk shop and discovering within a copy of the Beach Boys’ Smile from a parallel universe in which it was actually completed in 1966. Its last thirty minutes have been living on in my imagination despite the ever-growing distance between the present day and my last viewing, and I can’t wait for the next to see what else I can discover. Finally, these two films settle the debate about who’s the better Hemsworth brother- I’d take this pair of films starring Chris as solid proof that Miley made a terrible mistake with her choice in fiancees (not to mention haircuts) this year. - Nick Johnston (Portions of this article are excerpted from an article written for the September issue, and my opinions haven’t changed so I used it again).
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Bigelow, the Academy Award winning director of The Hurt Locker, would be directing a movie that depicts the decade-long manhunt of Osama bin Laden, there was much to be concerned about adapting this factual investigation into a narrative film. It could have been constructed into a piece of American propaganda, presenting the events leading up to the discovery of this international terrorist through a nationalistic tone that conveys a sense of victory for the United States. The brilliance of Zero Dark Thirty is that while it honors the accomplishment of the individuals who dedicated their lives to finding the location of al-Qaeda’s leader, their search is portrayed as a pursuit of vengeance in response to the terrorist attacks of September 11th, providing no feelings of satisfaction for the characters, or the audience upon the conclusion of the story. The film signifies that this devastatingly brutal investigation, which spanned over the course of a decade, was ultimately driven by the thirst for a man’s blood, resulting in morally ambiguous methods of torture in order to make progress. By presenting everyone involved in the operation as if they’ve entered into a dark void of despair, where personal ethics are perceived more as obstacles than guidelines, Bigelow has delivered the most undeniably powerful film of the year. It’s an unbearably intense, superbly acted and meticulously crafted picture that’s bound to provoke debates and test the boundaries of your own ethical judgments, which is what makes it such a masterful piece of cinema.
were awesome for film, especially in the Boston area. First, we got the 70mm edition of The Master at the Coolidge Corner, which, regardless of what you thought about the movie itself, was the film exhibition event of the year. It’s so rare to see a work of that size and scope showing anywhere, especially in its intended format, so I feel horrible for the people who crammed into a tiny theater at the Kendall or the Common to see it. There’s not much left to say about the wonder of Paul Thomas Anderson’s film: the longing, the beauty, the magnificent performances by Joaquin Phoenix and Philip Seymour Hoffman, the attention to period detail... It’s a film I could watch and watch again (except for the handjob that Amy Adams gives Hoffman, barely eclipsed in awkwardness by the one Bill Murray gets from Laura Linney in Hyde Park on Hudson) and still take something different away from it. Then, Rian Johnson’s Looper hit screens later that month, and cemented him as the most talented filmmaker of his generation, Zack Snyder be damned. I just feel lucky that we got two amazing performances by Bruce Willis in a single year (Moonrise Kingdom being the other, and I’m sure we would have gotten three if G.I. Joe: Retaliation had actually been released on time), and that we got a work of art as stunning as The Master.
YOUR arts & entertainment
other STAFF PICKS
Silver Linings Playbook: I have three words for you: David O. Russell. Though I was intrigued by the premise of the movie when I first stumbled across the trailer a few months back, I was in no way, shape, or form ready to be as blown away as I was. I have newfound respect for Bradley Cooper, who took on his role as a heartbroken, bi-polar man with commitment, compassion, and delightfully dark humor. Jennifer Lawrence was, of course, a dream, and the supporting cast was all around flawless, with DeNiro and Weaver in stand out roles. - Regina Mogilievskaya
Life of Pi: Not only is it a beautiful movie to watch in terms of the effects and environments that are created, but it also reminds us all about the beauty of story telling and why it is so precious. - Cedrine Streit
Father’s Day: This was one of the hardest decisions for me, what with Seven Psychopaths and Cabin in the Woods all getting 2012 releases. The real deciding factor for me was the number of satanicincest-baby-squashings per film, and in this category Father’s Day blew past the competition by miles. It’s funny, it’s brutal as all hell, it’s got a sweet soundtrack, chainsaw-wielding strippers and has Lloyd fuckin’ Kaufman playing God. Just shut up, drop whatever you’re doing and see this movie. - Jackson Birnbaum Life of Pi
20th Century Fox
Breaking Bad
AMC
best of TV SHOWS Breaking Bad: After every season of Breaking Bad ends, I think to myself, “There’s no way that this show can get any better”. When the show began, Walter White was a sad, sympathetic protagonist, a chemistry teacher diagnosed with cancer that began to cook crystal meth with the intention of being able to provide for his family once he’s passed away. Now, over the course of five-anda-half seasons, Walter has transformed into a monster; a greedy, arrogant son of a bitch who’s been corrupted by the financial success of his drug business. He’s no longer “breaking” bad, he is bad, a man who’s now as despicable as he was compassionate and as merciless as he was caring. The story picks up right where the fourth season left off, Walt has defeated Gus Fring in a savage game of survival and has become mad with power. While he’s determined to earn back the trust of his estranged wife, Skylar, he has become addicted to selling crystal meth, resulting in more tragic consequences than ever as the causalities continue to pile up. It’s a towering achievement not just as a character study, but as a morality tale, making it the most tense, provocative and mind-blowing show to air on television this year. - Charles Nash
Girls: Easy. My favorite TV show of this year is so ridiculously easy to choose. Yes, it’s Girls, and no, I will not take your shit for it. The writing on this show is really something to be commended: sharp, hilarious, and ridiculously spot-on. Lena Dunham and her entire team are so unafraid
to display life to the way it actually plays out sometimes, a bittersweet mixture laughs and embarrassments and understandings you wish you didn’t have to come to, but you did. I probably grimace an average of three times during every half hour episode, and the fact that I keep coming back (and bringing friends with me!) is a true testament to how committed Lena Dunham is to making Girls work. - Regina Mogilevskaya
Mad Men: It was a really, really good year for TV. I wonder why I didn’t just say “Game of Thrones” and gave the word “Blackwater” as my reasoning, but hey, you’re a captive audience. Honestly, most of the shows that I talked shit about in my fall preview I actually wound up liking a lot (especially Last Resort, which I’ve been having moments of silence since it was cancelled), and the old standbys were the best they’ve ever been. This season of Mad Men stands out as one of the series’ absolute best, and had some of the most honest-to-god tragic scenes that I’ve ever seen on television (though near the end, a botched PR stunt by Jaguar nearly undid all that goodwill). The writing and period design are at the same they’ve always been, but I think it might have to be the music that pushed it to the top of my list. Few movies or TV programs use music as well as this show does, and I’ll never be able to see or hear “You Only Live Twice” again without thinking of this season’s amazing finale. Here’s to season six coming as soon as possible. - Nick Johnston
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best ALBUMS of 2012 Text // Your Mag A&E Staff Well, let’s face it. Judging from our list of the staff’s favorite records of 2012, it was probably one of the years in modern pop music to be an artist debuting a record or coming back from a lengthy hiatus. It was probably an even better time to be a music journalist, in which labels sent you emails and things were pretty funny, like when that monkey got lost in an IKEA after smoking hash with Fiona Apple or Frank Ocean announced he might not make another record and instead write a novel while sailing the Mississippi on a custom-made houseboat with Grimes. So, Alien Civilization Reading This For Posterity After We All Died On December 21st, Music was once a really great thing, and we listened to it a lot (we hope you can find at least a CD in the post-apocalyptic landscape). And, if we are still alive to see through the publication of this January issue, you should really check these records out! They’re great!
Frank Ocean, channel ORANGE I knew from the first time I looked at the Odd Future crew that some brilliant music would be on the way, but honestly I really didn’t expect the collective’s first stunner of an album to come from Frank Ocean, but it did, and channel ORANGE is overwhelming. Even for people who don’t have much of an interest in R&B, this album features some of the best songwriting of the year. Ocean tackles these songs about alienation, frustration, and heartbreak with a meditative calmness that his voice carries so well. When he does really let his emotions fly, like on “Bad Religion” it has an even greater impact in the context of the album he has made. That is the most impressive thing about this record- it doesn’t feel like a vehicle for those great early singles like “Religion” and “Pyramids,” (and they are great). This is a real album, and thanks to how goddamn charismatic Ocean is, it’s one that you can get lost in and get more out of with every replay. - Miles Bowe (originally published in August)
Purity Ring, Shrines / The Men, Open Your Heart If I were to really say what I thought the best record of the year was, I’d probably send it to Kendrick Lamaar just like everybody else or something (people are really going apeshit over that record), but these were really the two that mattered the most to me. Purity Ring was the biggest surprise of 2012 - I certainly didn’t expect for their record to blow up in the way it did - and I may actually have musical Stockholm Syndrome when it comes to it, because I fucking hated parts of it when I first heard Shrines. But it grows on you, and eventually I started thinking of it as being in a strip club owned by David Lynch on a special block of Bizarro World’s Williamsburg, and the record finally made sense. “Fineshrine” is probably the best love-song released in the past decade, just so earnestly sweet and fucking weird that it will probably be the first song played at my wedding. Aside from that misstep of the Young Magic collaborative track “Grandloves” (which actually has a
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fucking amazing beat, but all goodwill is forgotten by the time the words “breakin’ up is easy” come out of your speakers), it’s as perfect of as a record that I can imagine. Oh, and also, so is The Men’s record, so I should probably put that in there too, huh? It’s like the Replacements never broke up and listened to more hardcore after they did. It’s fucking awesome. - Nick Johnston
Sigur Ros, Valtari In terms of sheer emotional power, no other album moved me more this year than Valtari by the Icelandic post-rock band; Sigur Rós. It’s the band’s sixth studio album and the first one to come out in four years, the last one being Með Suð Í Eyrum Við Spilum Endalaust, which was released in 2008. With this record, the band has composed eight hypnotic tracks, most of which begin with a smooth, gentle melody that builds up to a climax as poignant as it is dynamic. Jón Þór Birgisson (also known as Jónsi) provides heartfelt, delicate vocals amongst the beautifully layered harmonies that radiate from the band’s instruments. Their music is as endearing as it is intimate, providing me with an amount of warmth that’s comparable snuggling up under the covers of my bed before I go to sleep. Valtari is not as upbeat or jovial as Með Suð Í Eyrum Við Spilum Endalaust, in fact, it’s the most melancholy record Sigur Rós has composed in years, but it’s also one of the most tender, embracing you like a loved one giving you a hug after a rough day. Standout tracks consist of “Varúð”, a slow burn of a song that gradually builds up to a stirring finale, and “Fjögur Píanó” which tops off the album with a gorgeous piano ballad that brings tears my eyes every time I listen to it. Valtari is an album that will melt your heart; a lovely, sincere, and sentimental record from one of the most genuinely profound bands working in the world today. - Charles Nash
Fiona Apple, The Idler Wheel… Confession time: This was my first Fiona Apple album, and I am definitely not the expert on her work. But something must be said about this album, because it truly is one of the best of the year. From the first song, hell, from the
moment Apple’s voice appears, you’re just left dumbfounded. Over the bed of bizarre percussion Apple whispers, screams, shouts, speaks, and sings with a bruised beauty. She can be terrifying and sexy, strong then unbelievably fragile. Apple’s lyrics are often brutally direct, as on “Jonathan” and “Left Alone,” but are always witty and usually bitter. This record is a gorgeously produced, cathartic, and overwhelming listen, but it’s too good not to listen. I have no problem with Apple taking another six years to record a follow up, because people will be sifting over Idler Wheel for much longer. - Miles Bowe (originally published in August)
Murder by Death, Bitter Drink, Bitter Moon Murder by Death’s latest album goes down like a 64oz. cup of superb scotch in three ways. Firstly, it’s smooth, but doesn’t lose the burn behind it. Secondly, it’ll take you on the full emotional roller coaster ride, from the depth of maudlin love songs to the harsh anger of western violence, right back into something that very much resembles optimism, if optimism were found on the floor of a dive bar. Lastly, you will find your view of the world altered severely by the end of it. Now if only there was some way I could get another... - Jackson Birnbaum
Alt-J, An Awesome Wave The first alt-J song I heard was “Something Good.” Then it was “Fitzpleasure,” followed by “Something Good” and “Tessellate” and “Matilda.” I liked each track better than the one before it. It didn’t take long before I was obsessively wearing out their 2012 record, “An Awesome Wave” and driving my roommates insane with my inability to stop hitting the replay button. The English indie quartet, who formed back in 2008, take their inspiration from alternative, indie, dub pop, and folk sound, layering quirky harmonies over sensuous, hairraising lyrics. The record is undoubtedly one of the strongest of 2012. - Regina Mogilevskaya
YOUR arts & entertainment
meet YOUR
A&E staff
This month, we asked the A&E Section to respond to a few questions. Only a few, the rest having transcended this mortal coil to the next dimension, were able to respond. Miles Bowe- music critic, Your Mag staffer and new writer for Stereogum- was stricken with flu for the majority of this issue’s writing, sent us this message: “The horror. The... horror.” Below are their answers.
Nick “Nick Johnston” Johnston A&E Editor Major/Graduation Date: WLP, Media Studies/May 2013 (senierz) Twitter Handle: @onlysaysficus Favorite Food: Barbecue or deep-dish pizza. Favorite Art-Related Moment: Night-driving to synthpop or all of Fantastic Four #51. Would you rather fight a horse-sized duck or 100 duck-sized horses? Well, I’d get killed either way, but I would love to see a giant duck. I guess it’s the former.
Cedrine Streit Assistant Editor, Art Critic Major/GD: Marketing Communications/May 2014 Twitter: @cedstreit Favorite Food: Chilaquiles Art Moment: Standing in the infinity room of the Yayoi Kusama exhibition at the Tate Modern. Fight: A hundred duck-sized horses.
Regina Mogilevskaya Music Writer Major/GD: WLP/May 2013 Twitter: @regbum Food: YOU CAN’T MAKE ME CHOOSE YOU CAN’T! Pasta? Pasta. Art Moment: Kristian Matsson (The Tallest Man On Earth) bringing up his wife on stage to sing “Thrown Right At Me” at his show in NYC this past summer. Fight: I would rather fight 100 duck-sized horses and by fight I mean run away screaming as if I’d never screamed before.
Hunter Harris Film/Culture Writer Major/GD: Writing for Film & TV/2016 Twitter: @hunteryharris Food: Well-seasoned edamame or anything Italian Art Moment: That moment in Goodfellas when Ray Liotta’s Henry Hill hangs up on his nagging girlfriend in front of his nagging wife and says with coked-out exasperation: “All of ‘em. Every fucking girl in my life.” (Also acceptable: a quotation from Malick’s The Thin Red Line: “If I never meet you in this life, let me feel the lack”) Fight: A hundred horse-sized ducks.
the
P LAY LIST:
best songs of 2012 Text // Your Mag A&E Staff Aaaah, 2012. Here at the Your Mag A&E staff, we don’t exactly know what to say about this year, mainly because of how uncomfortable it all feels. What a bipolar year! From the Presidential election to the horrible tragedies in New York and Connecticut, to the successes at the Olympics and your Lebron James Heat winning the NBA Finals over the Oklahoma City Thunder, to the success of The Avengers and the miserable failure that was The Dark Knight Rises; we’ve run the emotional gambit quite thoroughly. These songs were here as constants in an evershifting world, providing the appropriate amount of comfort, shock and affirmation needed. Here’s to 2013 and, hopefully, a year of music just as good. 1. Purity Ring, “Fineshrine”
16. Chromatics, “Kill for Love”
2. Sharon Van Etten, “Give Out”
17. Baroness, “Take My Bones Away”
3. Grimes, “Oblivion”
18. Frank Ocean “Thinkin’ Bout You”
4. Julia Holter, “In the Same Room” 5. Icona Pop, “I Love It” 6. Twin Shadow, “When the Movie’s Over” 7. Ghostface Killah, M.O.P and Pharoahe Monch, “Black Out”
19. Japandroids, “The House that Heaven Built” 20. HEALTH, “Tears” 21. Frankie Rose, “Know Me” 22. Carly Rae Jepsen, “Call Me Maybe”
8. Odd Future, “Oldie”
23. Taylor Swift, “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together”
9. Killer Mike, “Reagan”
24. Psy, “Gangnam Style”
10. Fiona Apple, “Werewolf”
25. Rick Ross, “100 Black Coffins”
11. Kanye West ft. Pusha T and Ghostface Killah, “New God 26. Macklemore, “Same Love” 12. Flow” 27. Death Grips, “I’ve Seen 13. Jack White, “Weep Footage” Themselves to Sleep” 28. Jessi Ware, “Wildest 14. Kendrick Lamar ft. Dr. Dre, Moments” “The Recipe” 29. The Men, “Open Your 15. Icky Blossoms, “Perfect Heart” Vision”
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stylistic Text // Emy LaCroix
Style is inborn, fashion is a choice. Each month we have the choice about what fashion we want to feature in the pages of Your Mag. Inspiration can come from anything; a memory, a belief, a piece of art. At Your Mag, we draw most of our inspiration from trying to tell a story; three girls poisoned at a party, a girl battling with her alter ego, a pack of wolves defending their land, and our stories are always our own. Fashion is the idea, style is the creativity. We work hard to create something unique and interesting to keep you talking. What story are you trying to tell?
MEET the STYLISTS
Emy LaCroix
Sophomore, Journalism Favorite Look: I loved the looks from the Crimes of Fashion shoot in October. The dark, sexy looks are easy to achieve and perfect for a holiday date. Go-To: I love my felt tip eyeliner pen. It’s like a marker you can draw on your face with. You have precision control for eyeliner, but it’s great for detailed designs, fake tattoos, and lots of other fun looks too!
Dinesh Mohnani
Freshman, Marketing Communications Fave Look: This is my first semester working with Your Mag, and I love the atmosphere here. So far, my favorite shoot has been “Wild Things.” Its sexy, it’s raw, and it’s daring. Creeping into a tree on location was quite the thrilling experience. Go-To: My favorite styling tool is a simple comb because I love to tease hair. Ask anyone on staff, and they’ll tell you that I really get into it!
Tu Bao Nguyen
Sophomore, Marketing Communications Favorite Look: I loved the looks from the November issue, shot in the woods. Everything was so whimsical; the head pieces, the dresses, and the dark make-up just put an edge to the whole look. Go-To: I love my Maybelline mascara, if you wake up late for class and have to skip all your make up steps but one, mascara is the one to choose. It opens up your eyes, and frames it so that everything is focused.
Yu Qu
Freshman, Post Production Fave Look: My favorite look is showed by model Laura Wu in Crimes of Fashion. I love the vintage look mixed up with luxury. Go-To: My favorite styling tool is eyeliner because this simple pencil can let you become totally different. Easy and convenient.
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Shannon Dwyer
Sophomore, Journalism Fave Look: I loved styling for the punk rock shoot for the December issue! It was a lot of fun to do crazy hair and dark, edgy makeup. Go-To: I love eye shadow! You can layer many different colors to achieve the perfect look; it’s so much fun!
Megan Nicholson
Sophomore, Marketing Communications Fave Look: I loved the Boy Meets Girl photo shoot looks! I thought they were both very strong ensembles and together they portrayed a beautiful contrast. Go-To: I love my Too Faced, Naked Eye eye shadow kit. I literally used it for every photo shoot. There is a great range of neutral shades with a sparkle to them. I am in love.
Rhianna Reinmuth
Sophomore, Writing, Literature, and Publishing Fave Look: I thought the looks in the Wild Things shoot were really cool. I loved the big hair! Go-To: I don’t know what I would do without my curling iron. I use it to make loose, spiral curls. Although I have naturally straight hair, I don’t feel like myself when I go a day without curling it.
Jennifer Ortakales
Sophomore, Journalism Fave Look: I loved the looks from our rocker shoot in the December issue. The models would have been the most stylish rockers ever! I wish they were actually a real band! Go-To: My absolute favorite mascara is Victoria’s Secret Triple Drama Mascara – it makes my lashes the fullest I’ve seen them!
YOUR staff
photography:
WHAT we do
This semester the photographers have put in beautiful work, showing both their own styles while at the same time capturing stories through the subjects they shot. Many different photographers on staff did a range of article shoots. Everything from dating do’s and don’ts, by Kathleen Collins and Alicia Carroll, to political and propaganda news photos, by David Galinato and Zeynep Abes. Maddie Rain and Alex Fierro-Clark have gone out of their way to get fun, exciting, and personal types of photos, while getting to meet people who are making a difference and getting ahead. Alex explored on campus health services and off campus success stores of creating your own fashion business, allowing him to put what he learned into his work. Maddie had well-rounded articles shoots that included men’s coats and learning how to rock an interview. Our editorial shoots have been a hit in the past few months. Our first for this semester, done by Camille Vecchione, created a wild earthy shoot that incorporated the beautiful Boston fall, and fashion. Stephanie Fishbein did the second editorial shoot, which had a stark Tron feel to it with creative design edits by Pete Ivanechy making the spread pop out in an exciting way. Our next issue featured Brain Annis, Hope Kauffman and Stephanie Fishbein, taking the fairy tales we know so well and capturing the grim, untold sides of them. Alicia Carroll did an editorial shoot of an all girls punk band, showing the action and energy that bands have when performing and together as a group. With skills in working with their subjects and their equipment our photographers have provided compelling work that usually get quite a few “oohs and ahhs.” They get to work with other people on staff to get the best pictures they can for the topics given. With the talent and effort put into each shoot, it is always excited to see how it all comes together.
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Pete Ivanecky Creative Director Senior Directing Narrative Fiction “I always tell people that I never expected to get into the magazine game, but I’m really glad that I did; I have an amazing staff working with me, and I love being able to give back to the Emerson community. When I started working as Creative Director (and usually a designer) for YourMag, it was still an idea, and seeing what that idea has turned into makes me really proud of what we’ve accomplished.”
Teresa Garigen Designer Senior Journalism “I love that Your Magazine is more than your typical lifestyle or fashion magazine. It is a wonderful representation of the Emerson community; not only showing what we can do, but also what we like to do.”
Madison Fishman Designer Sophomore Journalism “I chose Your Magazine because it’s eye catching not only in design, but in content as well.”
Adam Reynoso Designer Junior
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putting FACES to the DESIGNS Katie Lohman Design Editor Junior Marketing Communications “I originally became a part of Your Mag on a whim because of my experience in design, but quickly became invested when I saw how accepting and awesome everyone was. It seems that I blinked and now here I am helping run a staff of designers, and I couldn’t be more excited for what else we’ll accomplish this coming semester.”
David Galinato Designer Junior Marketing Communications “I chose Your Magazine because everyone on staff is really nice and super professional. Also, we’re getting the most experience from a monthly magazine. And there are beautiful people.”
Tanya Wlodarczyk Designer Junior
Jaci Thomas Designer Junior Writing, Literature, and Publishing “My favorite part of Your Mag is the super supportive, creative staff. The magazine looks better and better each month because the different teams collaborate so well.”
Bekah Skopil Designer Sophomore Marketing Communications “I like designing for YourMag because it allows me to creatively express myself and show it to the school.”
Megan Tripp Designer Sophomore Writing, Literature, and Publishing “YourMag provides a fun and fresh way of looking at life at Emerson. I like that every issue has something new I can learn about and highlights the things that I like.”
YOUR staff
marketing staff FAVORITES INSTAGRAM TWITTER @yourmagemerson: “There are so many saucy articles on http://yourmagemerson. com this month! Tell us which is your favorite!”
BLOG The Anatomy of Basic Fall Fashion
Jamie: She adds: “I mean, saucy is just such a great word.
Jamie: Turkeygrams, a November fundraiser.
@yourmagemerson: “Tina Fey should win everything. #YMEMMYS” Reed: Tweeted during the 2012 Emmy Awards.
Megan: “Crimes of Fashion” editorial preview.
@ivanecky: “Had a blast MCing the YourStage Open Mic for @YourMagEmerson! Told jokes, heard jokes, Jamie: Posted October 29th, 2012. poems, and some fantastic music too! Talent abounds!” Melanie: Posted by Creative Director, Pete Ivanecky, the improptu host for the YourStage Open Mic night.
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copy editing:
BEHIND the SCENES
The members of copyediting staff are the grammar nerds. Spelling, punctuation, and consistency are our game. Every issue, we’re the ones to get second drafts, read them through, and make edits. Kelsey, Janella, Megan, Morgan, Devan, Caitlyn, Olivia and I scour articles for spelling mistakes, forgotten commas, awkward sentences, and articles that are just a bit too long (I’m looking at you, A&E). So, what’s the point? Well, this is a professional publication. Your Mag puts out issues expecting people to read and enjoy them and our staff are building their resumes. The copyeditors and the rest of the stuff want clean and consistent writing. That way, the articles come off just as they are: professional and informative. For your enjoyment and for the benefit of the writer’s, we spend absurd amounts of time reading every letter and analyzing ever punctuation mark in each article. Details, details, details is the mantra.
how good of a copyeditor are you?
TRY IT:
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Jane likes candy popcorn and sprite. but her brother dan hates itall.
YOUR staff
meet the staff
YOUR MAG tv Terrena Scannell (Romance Corespondent)
We have the ability to immediately get involved and can come up with our own segments to create, which ins’t always the case when you first join another organization. Plus our team is like one big family with all the support in the world to try anything that our heart desires.
Chen Xu (Editor, Shooter)
As the only male in this department, it’s great working with all the ladies. Love y’all!
Amanda Gomez
Lyndsay Cannon (Creator, Director) I cannot fully express how proud I am of Your Mag TV and everything we have accomplished this year! In our first semester, we interviewed fashion icons such as Cynthia Rowley, talented artists like Melanie Lynx, and even Emerson alum George Watsky. The creativity and drive in my team is more than anything I could have hoped for. Check out our staff and our videos to see what all the buzz is about: www.youtube.com/YourMagTV If you are interested in joining the Your Mag TV family, please apply!
Staff Picks:
Talking Love With Terrena, and Melanie Lynx (pictured below).
(Features Corespondent, A&E Producer) Your Mag TV allows me to have full creative control over the segments I put out. So I get to choose which bands we get to interview, what each theme each video should have, etc. The possibilities are endless which is my favorite aspect about working with Your Mag TV.
Lindsay Gualtieri (Editor, Shooter) Working with a small group is great- I know everyone, and it’s like getting to work with friends.
Ashley Juranich
(Fashion Producer, Romance Producer) The fact that everyone works together to produce something everyone loves. We’re here to please all types of viewers and we definitely do that!
Hannah Perrin (Fashion Corespondent)
Your Mag TV is like a little family. We all work really well together and I have learned so much this semester. It has been an amazing experience and I can’t wait for next year!
Meghin Hewitt (A&E Corespondent)
Your Mag TV gives me the opportunity to do the type of journalism I love...music!
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