Your Magazine Vol. 3 Issue 4: December 2013 by Your Magazine

DECEMBER 2013 VOLUME 3 ISSUE 4

EMERSON’S NEXT TOP MALE MODEL:

The men of Emerson all buttoned up

THE DATING DOCTOR IS IN

Dating advice from Emerson’s beloved David Coleman.

SELFIESTEEM

Your Mag is tired of seeing your face.

EDC BRINGS ON LIGHTNING

Make sure to check out their “Electric” showcase.

STAFF PICKS:

HOLIDAY WISH LIST Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m obsessed with scents. NEST makes unique fragrances with beautiful packaging. BEKAH SKOPIL, Design Director

Tiffany's. I mean, what more is there to say. Their jewelry is so simple it's mesmerizing. And I could always use a new pair of earrings. OLIVIA JACOBINI, Managing Editor

Is it weird to dream about an umbrella? I don't care. I want this swanky umbrella from Opening Ceremony to brighten up any rainy days sure to come. MATT MULLEN, Assistant Managing Editor

A pair of boots might do a good job helping me survive the winter. CHEN XU, YMtv Director

I love a good read, especially one that explores an area of life that I'm partial to. High Fashion and Humor - definitely something I can support! OLIVIA POST, Head Stylist

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

It’s never easy saying goodbye. I look back on my two and a half years with Emerson’s award winning monthly magazine and can’t believe what this organization has accomplished. From scrounging to print month by month until we were SGA recognized (in our first year!) to redesign after redesign to all of the amazing Emersonians and Bostonians we’ve been able to feature with the addition of our blog and Your Mag TV. We’ve made some more strides this semester, by adding cover features to the mix and beefing

up our content while keeping our layout direct and simple. This month is no different. The December Issue is filled to the brim with advice from the Love Doctor himself, a gorgeous offroad adventure with some luxurious clothes, and some men’s holiday do’s with our very own Emerson Next Top Male Models sporting lovely suits from J-Press and Jack Wills. So, though my goodbye might be more permanent, we at Your Mag ask you to say your goodbyes for the semester by pouring through this issue and exploring all Boston and Emerson has to offer, before you’re stranded at home with nothing but a mall and a movie theatre for one whole month. I can’t thank you enough for continuing to read the issues and I can’t thank the Your Mag staff enough for giving me the greatest college experience I could’ve hoped for. With that, I pass the torch to the lovely and capable, Claudia Mak who I know will bring just as much love, spirit, and much-needed energy to the position of Your Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief as the three ladies before her.

EMILY TANNENBAUM Editor-in-Chief

YOUR MAGAZINE Volume 3 Issue 4 • December 2013 EMILY TANNENBAUM Editor-in-Chief ELIJAH CLARK GINSBERG Creative Director

CLAUDIA MAK Asst. Editor-in-Chief

OLIVIA JACOBINI Managing Editor

BEKAH SKOPIL Design Director

KATHY COLLINS Photo Director

DANNY LEMAR Romance Editor

ANDREA PALAGI Style Editor

SIENNA MINTZ Living Editor

CEDRINE STREIT A&E Editor

CAITLYN BUDNICK Head Copy Editor

MEGAN TRIPP & MADELINE BILIS Blog Editors

MELANIE MCFADYEN Marketing Director

MATTHEW MULLEN Asst. Managing Editor

ABBY WOODMAN & OLIVIA POST Head Stylists

CHEN XU & HANNAH PERRIN YMtv Directors

Layout Designers DAVID GALINATO, MADISON FISHMAN, MEGAN TRIPP, ELISE SABBAG, AMBER CUNNINGHAM

Copyeditors DEVAN NORMAN, MORGAN METZ, JANELLA ANGELES, MEGAN TRIPP, JACQUELYN MARR, MADELINE BILIS, JULIA LOEWENTHAL, MOLLY LEGROW, CHRISTABEL FRYE, ELISE SABBAG, OLIVIA JACOBINI

Marketing ELISE MESA, JAMIE IANNACE, KINSEY MINSCHKE, REBECCA FLUHR, KELSEY JOHNSON, TRACY PARCO, LIA BROUILLARD, CAMILA ORIOL, BRIANNA MARTINIELLI, LEIGHA MORRIS, ESTHER GLASIONOV, MAX CHERRY, NATALIE BENJAMIN, STELLA SANGUANSIN, NIKOLAI JACKOWSKI

YMtv AMANDA GOMEZ, LINDSAY GUALTIERI, ASHLEY JURANICH, TERRENA SCANNELL, MEGHIN HEWITT, RORY MCCANN, WILLIAM VICKROY, STEPHANIE PUMILIA, JAIME TOSCANO, ALEXANRDA JAMES, TATIANA OCHOA, ANDY KEYS

EDITORIAL CREDITS: GANT

324 Newbury St. Boston, MA us.gant.com

MADEWELL

329 Newbury St. Boston, MA madewell.com

BALL AND BUCK 144 Newbury St. Boston, MA ballandbuck.com

JACK WILLS 179 Newbury St. Boston, MA jackwills.com

J. PRESS

82 Mt. Auburn St. Cambridge, MA jpressonline.com

A special thank you to Rachel, Kristian and Sadie Pearson and the fine people of Weston, Mass.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ROMANCE

6 The Gift That Keeps on Giving by Ava Marinelli & Antonia DePace 12 The Rules of Engagement by Brielle Sullivan & Chelsea Tremblay 14 Sleep With Me... Literally by Jenny Hannigan

STYLE

15 Walkin’ In a Winter Wonderland by Kelsey Drain 16 Tick Tock! by Andrea Palagi 18 Not Your Father’s Suit 22 Conde Nasty by Serena Kassow 23 Hydration Nation by Andrea Zendejas 24 Keeping It Classy by Antonia DePace 36 A Duffel You Can Wear by Brian Thomas

LIVING

38 The Perfect Suitcase by Jenna Giannelli 40 ‘Rita Roundup by Sienna Mintz 42 The Digital Diet by Jennifer Leahy 43 Washi What? by Madeline Bilis 44 You Are What You Eat by Matt Mullen

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

50 Linsky Debut EP Makes Splash by Michael Mahin 52 Tell Me a Story by Christabel Frye 53 The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug by Rivka Herrera 54 Dancing on My Own by Heather Mulgannon 56 Wrapped in Red(iculous) by Rivka Herrera 57 John Singer Sargent by Jake Dmochowski 58 December Playlist

FEATURED 8 THE DATING DOCTOR IS IN by Danny LeMar

26 FAIR ISLE WEATHER 46 SELFIESTEEM by Emily Walker

48 EDC BRINGS THE LIGHTNING by Joanne Paquin

THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

text by ava marinelli & antonia depace photo by kathy collins

This holiday season, pick the perfect present. ONE MONTH

So you’re in a new relationship, and the holidays are right around the corner. This can be an unnerving task to tackle. You don’t want to go overboard in terms of spending, but you want to show you care. You don’t have too much to go on since your relationship is still starting, but you want to be personal.

An “Inside Moment” Gift

Though you’ve only been together for a few weeks, you can draw on the things you’ve learned about your partner to find a small, but meaningful gift. The key here is to make the gift personal, but small enough not to set off the “clingy” or “creepy” alarm bells that come with a highpriced gift this early on in the relationship.

A Silly Holiday Cliché

This type of gift might not work in all relationship dynamics, but if it works for yours, it’s early enough in your relationship that you can play into some of those old romantic holiday tropes. You could even make a date out of it! Get matching “ugly sweaters”, bake and decorate holiday cookies, and cuddle up by the fire and watch a classic holiday movie.

THREE MONTHS

You’ve been together for about a semester now, so you’re really starting to get to know each other. All his/her nerdy quirks have come out. Now’s the time to capitalize on all the silly, nerdy, or otherwise noteworthy things you’ve been teasing your cutie for loving the past few months.

A New TV Show on DVD

DECEMBER 2013

Is there a show your significant other goes on and on about? Show you’ve listened to all their gushing and give them Season One of a similar show they’ve never seen before. You can use www.popcorn.fm, a search engine that gives you suggestions on what to watch next based on what you like. A gift like this shows your significant other that you’ve been paying attention to what they like.

T-Shirt Subscription

This is a fun and quirky gift idea for someone who loves fun t-shirt references. A site called BustedTees (www. bustedtees.com) lets you give a three, six, or twelve month subscription to their t-shirt inventory. Every month, your lover will get to select a new t-shirt to be sent directly to their door. BustedTees offers tons of inspired tees, and your significant other gets to pick out exactly what they want, in their size. No guesswork involved!

SIX MONTHS

You have been together for almost half of a year now, and if you haven’t already, are beginning to realize your true feelings for your significant other. You want to give a gift that symbolizes the love that you feel towards this person, something that reflects them as the unique individual that you see them as.

Photo Collage

Photo collages are really easy and fun to make. Just gather pictures from Facebook or from your own personal collection, and then print out the cutest and most memorable ones you find. Be creative when arranging the photos: you can cut some photos out or even add cute decorations that might relate to past memories you have. Then just put the frame on and you have a cute photo collage that your significant other will fawn over!

Flowers and a Nice Dinner

Find a restaurant that you and your partner have been dying to eat in or one that is significant to both of you. You can splurge on a new restaurant, or make reservations for one of your favorites. Then to add some color, buy a bunch of pretty flowers to give your sweetheart.

Models: Ellen Duffer & Evan Vihlen ONE YEAR

TWO OR MORE YEARS

Pandora Charms

A Splurge Item Your Significant Other Wouldn’t Get Themselves

After going out for one year, your gifts should begin to reflect your relationship as a whole.Try and stay away from “married couple gifts” like household objects. Start getting even more creative, you should be able to easily walk into a store and find something that makes you think of your partner. Pandora charms are a cute and fashionable way to tell that special someone that you have strong feelings for them. The Pandora charms come in a wide selection that can symbolize special memories or inside jokes that the both of you share. The charms range from $25.00 to $800.00, leaving a large spending range for you to consider. They could also make a cute tradition for you and your loved one to share during the holidays.

Overnight Trip

Depending on your age, you might be able to splurge on an overnight trip to somewhere special, or anywhere besides the dorms. An overnight trip will let you and your significant other have alone time without the disruption of roommates and friends. This is definitely one of the pricier presents for a one-year gift, but it’s one that you and your significant other will remember forever.

You guys have been in it for the long haul. By now, you’re old pros at the gift-giving dance. But, that can sometimes make things a little difficult. You’ve already done the cute gifts, silly gifts, romantic gifts...what do you do now? Well you can go in a couple different directions.

We all have those things we’ve had our eye on forever but would never dream of actually buying when we see the price tag. By saving up and splurging on your loved one, it shows a few things. First, it shows you’ve been paying attention to their desires. Second, you’re showing them they deserve whatever they’ve been lusting after. Finally, it shows you’re willing to splurge on something they want rather than on something you want.

A Gift That Hints at the Future

So you two have been hinting at a real future together. Maybe you’ve jokingly pointed items out for your “dream home” or planned a “perfect day” for when you two live together. Make one of these dreams a reality! Pick up that record player you both agree would look perfect in your living room. Make the perfect day come true, to the best of your abilities. A gift like this shows you’re ready to take that next step. ROMANCE

DECEMBER 2013

THE DATING DOCTOR IS IN

text by danny lemar photos courtesy of david coleman

David Coleman: Making a difference, one relationship at a time. It’s the busiest time of the year. Emerson College’s Fall Orientation is jam-packed with incoming students finding their way, their lives starting fresh. This year, they were herded into the Castle at Park Plaza, each one asking their orientation leaders: “What is Hooray?” The participants exited the building two hours later, having met everyone in the room. That night, they rushed to line up on the sidewalk outside the Cutler Majestic, this time to see a show performed on the stage. And while everyone gained a better understanding on relationships in the 20-something spectrum, they also got intimate with the speaker as well, forming a relationship with him similar to one countless other audiences have over the many years of his career. An extremely charismatic man with the gift to relate to his audiences, David Coleman, known as the Dating Doctor, has a job worth loving. At a school like Emerson, which is known for bringing innovation to communication and the arts, it’s no surprise that Coleman feels at home. He has an undergraduate degree in speech pathology and audiology and a master’s degree in college student personal administration from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. “[The master’s is] a heavy emphasis on communication and a heavy emphasis on psych,” he says. “That’s probably what lead me partially to do what I do for a living.” But how did he find out that this is what he

wanted to do? “It found me,” he says, laughing. As a student activities director at a college in Ohio, Coleman attended a conference where he gave a presentation called “Creative Dating.” “Back when I was doing this, I was pretty young. No one was doing sessions on relationships. It was pretty much unheard of. The room filled up with about 80 people who came to my session, and they really liked it.” After the session, 30 or 40 people handed Coleman their business cards, telling him that if he came to their

“I took on a much more genuine and candid approach with everything I did” campuses, they would pay him. The first school to ever book him to speak was Youngstown State University, where he returned to a few months ago. “It was really neat to go back there,” he says. “Especially with the fraternities and sororities and athletes there… Really neat.” From that first booking, Coleman spoke at about 10 or 15 college campuses and earned more than half what he would at his normal job. “I thought, ‘That’s really interesting.’ And that was over 3500 shows ago.” These shows were given to college students, corporate

groups, and the American troops. Over the course of his career, Coleman’s material has evolved in technique and content. “In technique, I’ve become much more direct, much more candid, and much more honest from the first time I ever spoke. The first time you do something you’re worried that people won’t like you or they won’t consider you valid.” A great deal of Coleman’s motivation to create this upfront and authentic dialogue he credits to his friend Jim, who suggested at one of Coleman’s early shows that being more honest and direct would help connect more with the audience and be more of a service to them. “So I took on a much more genuine and candid approach with everything I did, and he was right. Audiences really respected me covering topics in a way that they thought they should be covered.” In turn, Coleman’s show has blossomed into a topic greater than dating or relationships. “At the core of it, I talk about personal responsibility,” he says. “It’s time to grow up and take responsibility for and control of your life. If you’re living an unhealthy life, fix it. If you haven’t had a date since Moby Dick was a guppy, get out there and change it and quit blaming other people for the lack of success in your social life.” This message comes at the opportune time for incoming college students as they stand at one of the greatest crossroads in their lives. With their social and ROMANCE

DECEMBER 2013

love lives being dramatically altered, Coleman encourages his audiences to take charge of their lives to become the best individuals they can be. Coleman also advises people to be smart about their decisions, especially when getting involved in a relationship. “One of the things I added over the last year or so is, ‘When in doubt, stay out of their room,’” he says. “If you don’t know what you are with someone else, you really need to stay out of his or her room. And we talk about the culture of consent now, and we talk about having safe word.” A major point of Coleman’s show is “foretalk before foreplay,” a universally valuable recommendation he learned here at Emerson and now shares with the world. “I don’t care if people are gay or straight, their gender, or their race is irrelevant, but if they take someone out on a date, they should get that person back home in better shape than before the date began. When that date is over, they should have had a great time, they should feel closer to you, and they should not be harmed in anyway.” Coleman’s idea of personal responsibility certainly reflects many current issues impacting Emerson’s student body, fully supporting the culture of consent on college campuses. Subsequent to his program’s development, Coleman has seen a substantial increase in feedback from

his audiences, noticing that he is touching their lives in a very profound way. “When they come up afterwards, they’re so appreciative that I was that honest with them and that they not only had a chance to laugh but learned a lot. And I can tell the difference due to the in-depth nature of the questions that they’re asking me after shows,” he says. “The questions aren’t, ‘Hey, what should I do on my date tomorrow with my girlfriend,’ or ‘There’s this guy in one of my classes…’ but much more in-depth, introspective questioning. Soul searching, life changing types of questions.” By focusing on personal duty to self and to others in such a straightforward way, Coleman can feel a greater level of trust in the relationship created between himself and his audiences. “If you’re completely sincere, and share information that matters to them, they will trust you from the moment you walk off stage for the rest of their lives.” Emerson College holds a dear place in Coleman’s life. “Sharon Duffy [Emerson’s beloved Associate Dean of Students] is one of the best college professionals in the world. I’m not just saying that because she’s a friend. She is definitely one of the top five student affairs professionals in the country and Emerson is lucky enough to employ her.”

Duffy met Coleman at a National Association of Campus Activities in 1996, when he was just getting his agency off the ground and she was working at the Savannah College of Art and Design. “I booked him for a show there and he rocked it and quickly became an event students there looked forward to year after year,” Duffy says. She started at Emerson in 2001 and brought Coleman to campus in the spring of 2002 for a show to test her theory that he would be just as good for Emerson as he was for SCAD. He was. Says Duffy, “I booked him as part of the fall orientation program in 2002 and he has been a regular ever since.” A few years later, he told Duffy that he was formulating an icebreaker program, which has since become a staple of Orientation, known as Hooray. The Hooray program is a two-hour teambuilding experience that takes a group of people who don’t know each other well and leads them to bond through socially structured exercises. During the two hours, incoming students and orientation leaders mix and mingle, partaking in many different activities, all focused to maximize the Emerson Orientation experience. One freshman recounts her time at this year’s Hooray: “I went in feeling incredibly awkward and self-conscious. I had a lot of self-esteem issues in high school that

followed me to college. But I could feel myself loosening up and enjoying myself more. I got to meet a bunch of really cool people and learn some funny dances. Looking back, I think Hooray really helped me get to know what Emerson was going to be like. It was beyond worth going to.” An orientation leader says, “Hooray overall felt great and really does teach you how to connect on a deep level with people really fast. It is what we as Emersonians should be able to do in any of our majors. That is what I think Hooray was trying to teach us.” Duffy says, “For the Hooray program, he clearly brings people together around a shared experience where they are in a safe space to be themselves and get to know others in the class. It really helps bring people out of their shell.” “For some reason, I relate well to Emerson students. I think they appreciate my candor, my sincerity, and the fact that I don’t care what they are,” Coleman says, reiterating that sexual preference, gender, and race do not affect his outlook on his audiences. “I’m all about helping them be a better person and college student starting that very moment.” Duffy says, “I appreciate that he is real with us. He genuinely cares about us and that we are the best versions of ourselves that we can be.” He knows that Emerson students are the stars of the show and he follows our lead. He knows that he can discuss topics with us that he can't at the more restricted schools he visits, which makes his presentation even more dynamic and #soemerson!” Coleman also remarks that he is so incredibly proud when he sees Emerson graduates get amazing jobs in the world after college. “The fact that Emerson grads are doing what they love to do and what they came to this college to be trained in is awesome,” Coleman says. “To think that I was a small part of getting them to where they are today… is incredibly rewarding.” Even years later, Emerson alumni reach out to Coleman, letting him know how much he meant to them when they were new undergrads and to get relationship or

life advice. “I can’t tell you the number of Emerson students who have written me over the years. I consider Emerson students, staff and grads an extended version of my own family.” “There are a few shows I remember just because certain things happened or the audience did or said something special,” Coleman says, recalling one instance from a show he gave at Emerson a few years ago during Fall Orientation. “There was a young lady in attendance who stood up in the middle of the show and talked about the fact that her love life wasn’t where she wanted it to be and we were able to have a really nice, intimate and positive communication during the show. A relationship coach, who was a friend of mine, was at the show; he lived right there in Boston and I was able to refer her to him, right there in the room, and ask him if he would

“And we talk about the culture of consent now, and we talk about having safe words” help her for free, and he said yes. The audience went crazy as she was such a sweet person.” Why does Coleman do this; why does he continue to be The Dating Doctor? “There are two primary types of motivation in the world: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic is, you’re internally motivated. Extrinsic is someone saying to you, ‘You’re great at what you do.’ Coleman believes that he is a combination of both. “Sure, who doesn’t like receiving a standing ovation or hearing, ‘You made a real difference in my life. I’m going to go get out of a bad relationship or I’m going ask someone out for the first time.’ Anyone who does what I do for a living would love to hear that. Motivation also comes from inside. It’s just a feeling that I get knowing that someone came to one of my shows,

loved it, and they’re going to live their life differently.” That feeling of internal and external motivation is common among Emerson students across all majors. Although the job is rewarding, as Coleman travels, he misses his family, pets and his home in Cincinnati, Ohio. During times when he is home, he in inseparable from his loved ones, appreciating the daily chores an average person would consider mundane. He enjoys washing the dishes or cleaning out his closet because he typically isn’t there to do it himself. Additionally, Coleman spends time with family and friends on the boat he and his fiancé, Tina have on the Ohio River. “When I am doing something at home, it is probably going to involve my finance Tina, or my two daughters who are in college at the University of Cincinnati, my three step sons and my pets. Coleman has been with his fiancée, Tina Razete, for a year and a half after meeting online. “I put up a profile for one month on Match.com that clearly indicated that I was not up for a long distance relationship,” he says, noting that his last two relationships were made difficult due to distance. “On the final day that my profile was active, it was one of the first days that Tina’s was active, and I saw her and lo and behold, she lived ten minutes away. And she’s absolutely… I couldn’t be luckier than to meet someone like her.” The two will be married next summer among family and friends in Las Vegas. In the future, Coleman is interested in returning to radio, a format he enjoys immensely for its far ranging reach. He prefers that medium of interaction because it touches anyone, anywhere, no matter the distance or circumstance. But at the present, he is thankful for his career opportunities. “I get to see the world, experience a vibrant city like Boston, perform in one of the most beautiful theaters in the world – the Majestic – and entertain a raucous crowd that can’t wait to get in the door. C’mon…really? I live a blessed, charmed life.” ROMANCE

THE RULES OF ENGAGEMENT

text by brielle sullivan & chelsea tremblay photo by kelsey davis

Should you put a ring on it?

DECEMBER 2013

Even though most romantic comedies teach us that we find our true loves in high school, many long-term relationships begin in college. High school relationships are sometimes less serious and rather dramatic compared to more sincere ones in college. However, many of us romantics neglect the concept of what comes after finding love. You know, first comes love, then comes marriage, etc. The idea of engagement or marriage in college proves rather scary for some, while others feel it’s perfectly normal. The country is pretty divided when it comes to young people getting married. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, 50 percent of all marriages including brides over the age of 25 result in a failed marriage. For women under the age of 18, 59 percent of marriages end in divorce within 15 years. The divorce rate drops to 36 percent for those married when examining brides married at 20 or older, according to the article “Cohabitation, Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage in the United States” written by M.D. Bramlett and W.D. Mosher. The current age for a woman to get married is 27. If the average college student graduates between the ages of 21 and 23, why is the average age of women getting married 27? Back in the day, marriage was common amongst those in their late teens. Just think of your grandparents and how long they’ve been together. Since the days of “Lover’s Lane” and you-can-only-move-out-if-you-get-married, women have actually gained independence. For some

women, financial stability and pursuing a career are more important than getting married and starting a family. This dynamic shift has created an increase in the average bride’s age. Natalie Morgan ‘14, an Emerson College student mentions, “Women having more options these days has definitely pushed the age of marriage back. The lifestyle in our grandparents generation compared to ours has changed with more people going to college, traveling, and wanting freedom.” Morgan and her middle school sweetheart, Carl Pratt, have been engaged since the summer after their freshman year of college. As Morgan has learned, people are more understanding of her engagement when she explains that they have been together since middle school and that the wedding is after graduation. Who is to say that a woman cannot achieve a college education, become career-oriented, or gain independence while also having a fiancé/husband at a young age? Morgan and her fiancé are a strong example of a couple maintaining personal life plans and also their hearts. Recently engaged Juliane Radermacher ‘14 agrees that it’s out of society’s norm to become engaged while in college. Seeing a ring on a student’s finger can be a surprise. She says, “I think today a lot of culture ends up being a hook up culture. It’s easier and safer to go on a onenight stand than it is to be in a committed relationship. I think our culture tells us to be independent as long as you can; being married is weak.”

Radermacher met her fiancé, Alex Hoder ‘14, at Emerson during their freshman year and the two have together ever since. “It’s hard because when you’re in a committed relationship you’re trusting someone else to love the vulnerable and imperfect you,” she says. “You’re not able to put on a fake mask because that other person will see every detail of who you are. I think that’s what’s so freeing though, not having to work to earn someone’s love, but knowing it’s there because of the commitment you’ve made to one another. That’s what I see as the most beautiful aspect.” Radermacher and Hoder made that ultimate step last month when he proposed before throwing her a surprise birthday party.

graduated before you’re married. I think when we give ourselves those kinds of parameters it puts unnecessary pressure on ourselves. Relax, enjoy yourself, meet new people, and if you find the one then great!” Oddly enough, the recently engaged Morgan Metz ‘14 used to think that marriage was not for her. That changed after meeting her fiancé, Jose Linares. Metz found herself doing what she never thought she would and understands those who question the decision to get married young. She still does not doubt her decision, though, and remarks, “Everyone is going to be polite when you tell them you are engaged, but you can tell when people are thinking ‘this girl is crazy’ or ‘this will never work’ and I get it

When it comes to the notion of marriage as weakness Kate Carlson ‘15, also engaged, has strong opinions. “You have a choice in the matter,” Carlson says “Just because you’re engaged or want to get married, you’re not doing a disservice to women. I’m engaged to the most traditional guy in the world and I’m setting my foot down on a lot of things and asserting my independence. Marriage isn’t the death of independence, it’s honestly the beginning of a fun travel journey.” Carlson’s journey, the one she plans to embark on with fiancé Maxwell Carr, comes with a warning. “There are no plans,” she says. “Do not set yourself on a timeline. You might find yourself married before you graduate or

because I used to be one of those people.” She continues, “I got lucky and when you know, you know.” Linares built a strong relationship with Metz’s family and has their support. Unfortunately, her fiancé’s tentative deployment affects their current plans, but she knows everything will fall into place eventually. In life, there are no perfect guidelines. Becoming engaged or married in college may seem foreign to some, but for others, it is simply the path their life has naturally taken. From generation to generation, people change and dynamics shift. When you see a ring on someone’s finger, try not just to jump to conclusions. Everyone is on a different path. In love, age is just a number. ROMANCE

SLEEP WITH ME... LITERALLY

text by jenny hannigan illustration by pimploy phongsirivech

Read between the sheets.

I wake up every morning and groggily turn over to my boyfriend, Andrew. Usually he is still sleeping when I wake up. If he’s not, he’s sitting on the end of the bed, perpendicular to me, struggling to make sure that he isn’t sitting on my legs or feet. He doesn’t know this, but I like when he does because it keeps my feet toasty warm, and it’s one of the small, seemingly meaningless things that makes me feel close to him. Sleeping with someone means that the two of you develop a routine together. You do the same things before going to bed, and you start your day the same way every day. Your significant other becomes not just your mate, but also a part of your routine, a part of the way you live your life. Of course, it may take a little time to develop and perfect this routine. When you first start sleeping with someone new, there is often a trial and error period of adjustment. For example: Andrew can’t sleep if there is noise in the room, and I fell asleep in the middle of a concert once. I also like complete darkness, while he could conk out at two in the afternoon with the windows wide open. Different people have different sleeping preferences, and the both of you will have to adapt. Earplugs are an easy ROMNCE

solution for those who need absolute silence to be able to sleep, as is a sleep mask for those who prefer to be totally in the dark. You will also, obviously, have to get used to giving up half of your bed. The days of sprawling out on your bed are over when you invite someone else into it. But that is a sacrifice you just have to make. It’s worth it. Also, if you are cute enough, you can probably still get away with hogging half of the bed anyway. But, sharing your bed with someone else isn’t just about compromise and giving up personal space. Another pleasant surprise that comes from sleeping together is that you become very in sync. Andrew and I will often wake up at the same times during the night and cuddle briefly. We are not quite at full consciousness when we do it, but that only makes it better. Somewhere in our subconscious minds, we become more synced up. We run into each other at school when we aren’t planning on it. This happens several times per week. We even get on the same train and don’t realize it until we have reached our destination and see each other on the platform. It makes everything about our relationship easier, our minds fitting so well together. I guess it is worth giving up half of the bed.

WALKIN’ IN A

text by kelsey drain photo by kathy collins

WINTER WONDERLAND A guide to fashionable winter footwear. Most people are familiar with the classic movie scene where the car drives by a pedestrian and drenches him or her with water which results in the destruction of a nice outfit and a good hair day. On the big screen this seems like a fictional, comical scenario, but in street cities like Boston this scene actually happens. So how can city fashionistas protect themselves from the slushy, wet streets of Boston? There are many factors to the right armor against the New England elements but one garment stands above the rest: the prefect pair of boots. Leather riding boots are the ideal piece to any Boston wardrobe. The classic equestrian look is eternally chic and, not to mention, warm and protective. Leather is a classic human textile that is beautiful and useful. Be sure to check out Tory Burch and Frye riding boots and their respective line of leather care products. Taking excellent care of leather boots is especially important. Weather in the Northeast is almost as destructive to a pair of leather boots as a dirty horse barn. Available at most shoe retailers, leather care products can also be used on bags and jackets to protect them from the harsh elements. If you grew up playing sports like soccer instead of riding ponies, you might have a hard time finding the right pair of tall riding boots that fit your muscular calves. But don’t worry, there are booties. Mid-calf boots are also a leather blessing

for weather-bearing city-folk. Booties can be dressed up at night, or down for the day at school. Marc Jacobs always supplies his customers with beautiful, well-made mid-calf boots and booties. If the weather is extra wet, grey, and cold (even for Boston) a fashionista must turn to versatility. I’m talking about Bean Boots and Hunters. Both from originally outdoors-based companies turned chic, and these are imperative for Bostonian. Bean Boots are good in the snow and are especially warm and cozy. Unfortunately, there is not much diversity in the style of these classic shoes. If you want something unique and fun, look to Hunter rain boots. There are many unique styles and designer collaborations to choose from. Rain boots can also be worn in summer storms, or fleece Hunter socks can be purchased separately. These boots can both be dressed up to be useful and stylish. “I have a pair of leather boots that are leather and super warm,” said David Kourtesis ‘15 who was recently featured on the New York Times’ style section. “They’re the best.” He said the boots have lasted him many winters in Boston and were a good investment. Buying boots in Boston should probably be added to the tuition bills of Emerson, BU, and Northeastern students. These classic pieces do not run cheap; boots can be a real investment. However, a fantastic, unique, diverse, protective, and protected boot collection is necessary for any Boston Fashionista.

STYLE

METAL

Metal watches were once considered a faux pas. Yet today, these chunky metal pieces can be the perfect accessory. Because of their weight, they are often best paired with heavy garments like sweaters or infinity scarves. Gold matches well with winter colors like camel, forest, and truffle and silver is best with pastels like white, peach, and mint. They generally cost between $60 and $65.

TICK TOCK TEXT BY ANDREA PALAGI PHOTOS BY EMMA FISHMAN

CALCULATOR

The calculator watch is a 1975 Casio classic. It is fabricated out of black plastic and comfortable for daily wear. The time is digitally displayed and it has full miniature calculator. Styling it must be done carefully. An ultra feminine outfit is best: pleated skirt topped with a collared button up shirt and fitted sweater. They are conversation pieces that run about $25.

Watches are forever.

DESIGNER

Michael Kors and Marc Jacobs hold a monopoly on the womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s designer watch industry. Their timepieces are similar in size, shape, and design. They are typically oversized and circular with chain link straps and a classic numeric clock face. Regardless of designer, they look best paired with long, tight-fitted sleeves and worn with solid colors. The average price is between $275 and $400.

In a world filled with iPads, TiVo, Bluetooth, and miniature vacuums that buzz around and clean on their own, those living in the 21st century are tangled in an ever-changing modern web. In order to reconnect with simpler times, fashion forward men and women are accenting their everyday outfits with the most classic accessory out thereâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the watch.

VINTAGE

Vintages timepieces are popping up nationwide. Unlike watches today, vintage timepieces are crafted with attention to detail and push beyond the simple face to strap relationship. Beyond their one-of-a-kind nature, vintage watches are also among the easiest to wear. They can be paired with any outfit. Depending on location of purchase, they can cost anywhere from $1.99 to $199. DECEMBER 2013

CORK

Most people arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t used to seeing cork in their accessories. Yet some companies are using it to make watchstraps. Cork timepieces are most often made using gold metal, which compliments the colors of the cork. These watches are casual and easy to style. Therefore, they can be paired with faded light wash jeans and white T-shirts. Most are priced between $30 and $40.

NOVELTY

Not every timepiece has to be an investment. Plastic novelty watches are inexpensive, quirky accessories. Pairing vibrantly designed watches with a monochromatic black, gray, or tan outfit creates contrast. They can be worn in the summer with cutoff denim shorts and bright colors, as they are lighter and less bulky than their counterparts. This watch falls in the range of $18 and $24.

LEATHER STRAP

A watch with a leather strap says mature, refined, and smarter than anyone in the room. They are highly diverse in their size and shape. The most important rule is to never mix black outfits with brown leather watches and vise versa. Otherwise, this accessory can be worn with many outfits but looks perfect with corduroy and plaid. These usually range between $20 and $50.

STYLE

Not Your , Father s Suit photography: emma fishman models: lloyd mallison simon kiser kirby johnston

ENTMM Runner-Up Simon: Jack Wills Belgrave Black Watch Blazer, Jack Wills Buckingham Tux Trouser, Jack Wills Salcombe Classic Fit Oxford, J. Press Reversible Bow Tie, Stylist,s Own Pocket Square. ENTMM Contestant Kirby (on opposite page): J. Press Grey New Zealand Wool Peppin Merino Suit Jacket and Pants, J. Press Navy Elephant Bowtie, J. Press Trim Fit Blue Oxford.

Emerson,s Next Top Male Model Lloyd: Jack Wills Belgrave Velvet Blazer, Jack Wills Buckingham Tux Trouser, J. Press Skull and Bone Bow Tie, J. Press Skull and Bone Cummerbund, J. Press Tuxedo Shirt, Stylist,s Own Pocket Square.

text by serena kassow

CONDE NASTY:

THE END OF A PUBLISHING GOD’S INTERNSHIP PROGRAM Condé Nast discontinues internship program

A typical morning as a Condé Nast intern goes like this: wake up, blow out your hair, assemble a flawless outfit, and maybe grab a protein bar if you’re not running too late. As of Oct. 23, the giant magazine corporation, which claims ownership of 25 publications including Vogue, The New Yorker, and GQ announced that they would be cancelling their internship program after being slapped with lawsuits from interns in June. Condé Nast Publications was founded in 1909 with the acquisition of Vogue, which was then a weekly society and etiquette guide. Its founder, Condé Montrose Nast, went on to lead the company until his death in 1942, and it was sold 17 years later to the famous Newhouse Family and now is currently under the control of chairman Jonathan Newhouse. Condé Nast is also a part of Advance Publications, Inc., one of the largest privately owned media and communications companies in the world. Internships at the magazines Condé Nast controls are highly desirable. An internship at one is the ultimate way to get your foot in the door. With more people going to college, the job market is even more competitive— and these internships can be the start to a whole career. This fundamental platform may explain why the magazine world was so shocked when Condé Nast announced canceling their program. So why did they do it? According to Forbes columnist Susan Adams, Lauren Ballinger and Matthew Leib, former interns at W Magazine and The New Yorker, respectively, filed law suits in June 2013 in the Federal District Court of Manhattan, claiming that the magazines had not paid them according to federal and state labor laws. Ballinger claimed to have worked 10 to 14-hour days doing menial tasks for editors and making less than a dollar an hour. She told the New York Times that for both jobs, only other interns trained her. Leib states that in the two summers he worked for The New Yorker, he was paid

between $300-$500 total, while he, “helped maintain the online cartoon database, did research in the cartoon archives, and coordinated the work of cartoon artists three days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.” Condé Nast is remaining quiet on the scandal— even amongst the unflattering labels being posted on them by various magazines and lawyers. Lawyers defending these cases and others of the sort are pointing to the Labor Department’s six factor test of internship conduct that was laid out by the Supreme Court in the 1940s: “Under the test, an unpaid internship is legitimate if the employer derives no immediate advantage from the activities of the intern; and on occasion its operations may actually be impeded.” The document also says, “The internship experience is for the benefit of the intern.” In other words, the internship’s goal should be to train and teach the intern, rather than to provide free labor for the employer. If the employer doesn’t meet the six criteria, it is supposed to pay minimum wage or better. The questions remain: what does this mean for us? While it’s true that nothing is worse than working ten-hour days for free, shouldn’t we - as young, aspiring professionals - be grateful to get our name and abilities in the eyesight of our potential future bosses? This decision will no doubt strike the fashion and entertainment industry and those trying to pursue it with some pretty hard blows. No longer will your summer in New York City interning at Vogue turn into a job post-graduation. However, there is some good news. As previously mentioned, many other companies are recently coming under the light for not paying interns. Instead of cancelling their programs, these companies are expected to adhere to the pressures of the lawsuits and scandal and pay future interns a baseline of minimum wage. So there you have it: while some losses must be counted, this is not the end of the world. Best of luck in all your future endeavors, readers- we promise that there are still thousands of them.

“Condé Nast is remaining quiet on the scandal.”

DECEMBER 2013

HYDRATION NATION

text by andrea zendejas photo by carina allen model: alexia kyriakopoulou

How to keep your skin moisturized during the winter Adjusting to the harsh winter weather can be a rough transition for your body. Having dry hands is uncomfortable and unattractive. The way cracked, chapped lips feel can make you want to rip them off. Yet, there is no need to feel this seasonal stress if you use the right beauty products. When it’s cold outside it’s tempting to jump right into a hot shower, but this could actually cause your skin to dry out. Lukewarm showers allow you to still have a nice, warm shower while keeping your skin healthy. Using a good body lotion is crucial, especially after you shower. The best lotion is the one that will moisturize your skin specifically for the winter months. Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Butter Body Lotion, does just that, and can be found for $9.00 at your local pharmacy. Your hands are the part of your body that tends to get the driest during the winter months. This will require a great hand lotion.

The best hand lotion around is the L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream. This lotion can be found in different sizes, perfect for throwing into your purse. The smallest size costs $12.00 and can be found at Sephora or at the L’Occitane store. It is also important to apply lotion to your face during the winter, because your face is most often exposed. The best cream for your face, and also the most moisturizing, is the Embryolisse Lait Crème, a $16.00 cream found online. While it may seem strange to apply sunscreen during the winter, it still is a necessity. Try using a tinted moisturizer with SPF, like Laura Mercier. This moisturizer is $43.00 and can be found at Sephora. The lips become extremely dry during the winter. The Fresh Sugar Lip Polish gently exfoliates and conditions the lips, and costs $22.50. The best lip balm is the Nivea A Kiss of Smoothness Hydrating Lip Care, which is $3.00 and can be found at your nearest pharmacy. Smith’s

Rosebud Salve is a multifunctional lip balm. Not only is it useful for your lips, but can also be used for the dry elbows and knees. It can be found for $6.00 at Sephora. Along with keeping your body moisturized, it is important to keep your nails strong. Nails can easily become brittle during the winter. Using Vaseline to moisturize them can help keep them strong. In addition to worrying about keeping your skin and nails moisturized, it’s important to keep your hair hydrated. The Weleda Rosemary Hair Oil, $14.00, is a good way to revitalize your hair, soften split ends, and add shine. Along with these products to keep hydrated, it is also important to drink water as a natural hydration remedy for your skin. Eating healthy can also keep your skin looking radiant. So make sure to dress warm and use moisturizing products during this winter to keep your skin happy all season long!

STYLE

KEEP IT CLASSY: HOW TO DRESS FOR A BUSINESS PARTY

text by antonia depace photo by kelsey davis model: aubaianne laduke

How should you dress for your office party when you’re just an intern?

DECEMBER 2013

You are the youngest person at your internship. You’ve worked hours upon hours in the crazy, chaotic office and consumed a lifetime supply of coffee. You are certain that you have encountered every possible problem. From ordering the wrong latte at Starbucks for your boss and accidentally hanging up on an important customer while trying to transfer a call to getting to work late because the T or a sudden traffic jam, you’ve seen it all. Little did you know, you are likely going to soon face a bigger problem: as the holidays are around the corner, you will receive an invitation to the company Christmas party. The office you’ve commuted to every afternoon for the past month could be your future place of employment, and you’ve done everything in your power to ensure it. Now is your chance to prove you’re not just some college boy or girl who waltzed into the internship. You have to prove that you belong and that you are one of them, through actual qualifications and personal fashion statements. When you were little, buying a holiday outfit was easy. No one was eyeing your red velvet petticoat dress to gauge your maturity level or ability to represent his or her

company. As an older individual, a lot more thought has to go into picking out an outfit. Long gone are the days of walking into Macy’s and picking out the largest, most outrageously sparkly dress you can find. Dressing appropriately for an internship holiday party could definitely bode well for landing a job, so it is majorly important to know the difference between appropriate and inappropriate dresses to wear to the event. For example, a mini strapless red dress with pumps is definitely NOT appropriate to wear. You have to remember that you are going to a company party and not a club. Try and stick with a nice statement skirt or a pretty dress. It’s always a plus when you find a skirt or dress that you can wear again to the office on a regular basis, but don’t make this your main goal. What you decide to buy really depends on the community vibe at your internship. If you and the other employees get dressed up on a daily basis, then look more towards a simple black statement dress that you can amp up with heels and jewelry. If your office is pretty nonchalant when it comes to everyday fashion, still try to dress to impress. A brightly-colored statement skirt paired with a black blouse, blazer, and belt go a long way when it comes to creating a professional look that looks chic and fashionable. It also allows a lot of room for adding your own personal style. Your skirt can be any outgoing pattern, such as a layered red-orange chiffon skirt or shimmer skater skirt, as long as it still looks sophisticated and professional. There are tons of holiday skirts sold during December, and it is

really easy to find one that fits your personal style. Topshop has tons of unique skirts that come in cool and fashionable patterns, and aren’t too pricey depending on what you find. You could pair the skirts with pearl earrings for a classier look, a jeweled cuff bracelet for an edgy one, or a white Swarovski crystal bracelet to add a “wow” factor to your ensemble. All of these options add a fun yet professional feel to any outfit. If you are willing to splurge for the holidays, J.Crew always has great jewelry. But if you’re running on a tight budget then no fear, places like Forever21 and H&M sell tons of similar jewelry for a much cheaper

“Avoid fishnets, fur collars, blue jeans, and large hoop earrings.” price tag. Avoid fishnets, fur collars, blue jeans, and large hoop earrings. Also stay clear from ugly Christmas sweaters and bold and colorfully patterned tights. They are really fun to wear to a family holiday party, but it’s not so funny anymore when your boss stares at you from across the room with a dumfounded and embarrassed look on his or her face. All of these components to an outfit scream “unprofessional” and show that you are not ready to work in the real world. If you are a guy, show up in a nice suit with a blue or white dress shirt underneath. Make sure the dress shirt underneath your suit is presentable and isn’t fraying or missing buttons, because during

the party you’re bound to take off the jacket. Unless your co-workers are wearing comical ties, stray away from them and stick with a cool woven silk grey scale patterned one or a deep red. The shine from the woven silk fabric will make it look a bit more festive, and if you get it in a small snowflake or dotted pattern you will definitely look like you’re ready for the holidays. How an intern dresses can make or break a performance review. Why? Although many refuse to believe it, fashion and self-presentation in general do make a difference. A company wants to hire someone who looks professional. When you work for a company, (especially if it is in the fashion industry or one where you are consistently dealing with clients) the way you dress becomes the public image of where you work. If you show up wearing a t-shirt and blue jeans, it is very likely that your client is not going to take you seriously. Dressing for a holiday party as an intern can really show your boss that you mean business and take the opportunity seriously. If you show up in a presentable skirt and blouse with flats or heels (please try and keep them at or below three inches), you are demonstrating that you are mature and professional enough to work for the company. Overall, this holiday season just try to look your best and be yourself. While fashion can make a difference, you should find a company that you do not need to change your individual style for. With your great attitude, skills, and fashion sense gained from having the freedom to express yourself in a college community, your boss will have no reason to not hire you.

STYLE

photography: kathy collins models: jackson davis patrick lynch corey potter makeup: jez insalaco hair: annie loppert styling: adele grubb

Corey: Madewell Station Workshirt, Ralph Lauren Rugby Cardigan, Madewell Denim Jacket, Model’s Own Jeans, Model’s Own Boots. Patrick: Ball and Buck Marled Knit Hat, Gant Fair Isle Sweater, Gitman Brothers Vintage Oxford, Gant Rugger Stick Boy Jeans, Red Wing Beckman Boots, Gant Sunglasses. Jackson: Ball and Buck x Freeman Rain Jacket, Gant Rugger Cablecito Sweater, Ball and Buck Hunter’s Shirt, Ball and Buck Six Point Pants, L.L.Bean Bean Boots, Gant Venture Sunglasses.

FAIR ISLE WEATHER

â&#x20AC;&#x153;when you come to a fork in the road, take it." -Yogi berra

“Another golden rule is don’t lose your cool." -Yogi Bear

Corey: Penfield Jacket, Madewell Soft Slouch Hat, L.L.Bean Chamois Cloth Shirt, Gant Sweater, Madewell Denim Western Shirt, Model’s Own Jeans, Model’s Own Boots. Patrick: Gant by Michael Bastian Down Shirt Vest, Gant Rugger Cable Sweater, Ball and Buck Hunter’s Shirt, Gant Rugger Cordsters, L.L.Bean Bean Boots. Jackson: Barbour Beaufort Jacket, Ball and Buck Hunter’s Shirt, Gant Rugger Stick Boy Jeans, L.L.Bean Blucher Moccasins, Gant Venture Sunglasses.

A DUFFEL YOU CAN WEAR

text by brian thomas photos by maya rafie model: jake dmochowski

The duffel coat is a men’s fashion staple that has travelled around the globe for nearly one hundred years. Today, this style has reemerged around the US. The violent waves crash against the hull of the ship as it plows through the ice-crusted ocean. The sun merely illuminates the clouds with a goldish hue as it fails to penetrate through a dark atmosphere. Sailormen, clothed in duffel coats, pace about the top deck of the ship performing their duties in efforts to keep the blood circulating throughout their bodies. The chilling winds’ ability to gnaw at exposed human flesh - leaving behind frostbitten skin - is what made the duffel coat the preferred choice of outwear amongst sailors with a lust for adventure. The duffel coat’s hearty woolen construction and flexibility allowed sailors to stay warm while being able to move freely. Along with the sailors who wore this as a part of their uniform, icons of machismo and daringness also sported the duffel coat- most notably Ernest Hemingway. Over time, the duffel coat has evolved from being worn for functionality to being a nostalgic fashion statement of robust personality. The jacket is constructed out of a coarse woolen material. Depending on the season, it can come in an array of colors ranging from dark navy to white. The most conventional, classic color for duffel coats, however, is camel. In the place of buttons, wooden toggles interlock with rope, which are sewn on to the jacket’s exterior. These toggles distinguish the duffel coat from other types of outerwear jackets that have the tendency to blend in with each other. Its large bucket of a hood effectively keeps the ears and head warm from biting winds, and also, the circular shape that the hood forms around the face flatteringly portrays facial features. Along with showcasing the body in a pleasing

light, the duffel coat is key for tying an ensemble together. It’s great for layering blazers and sweaters underneath. Although many other fashion magazines advise against it, in certain instances, it can also be used to tie together formal wear like suits and tuxedos. The duffel coat has a unique flare of ruggedness that gives what could be a boring suit some edge. Just make sure to be color conscious. When sporting a classic black tuxedo, do not wear the conventional light brown coat. That selection is casual and more fitting to blazers of a similar color scheme. Safe choices include black or navy; dark colors are always safe. However, if you are feeling bold and avant garde, wear a white jacket. Depending on how it is worn, the duffel coat can be used to add some substance and flavor to an ensemble. Originally, the duffel coat was not intended to act as a fashion piece. It bears its name from a small city in Belgium that was famous for producing coarse, woolen materials for coats. Tailored for fishermen, the duffel coat was cut short so that it hugged the waist. However, during the 1880s, the British Royal Navy needed a new outerwear coat to clothe its rapidly expanding numbers. The duffel coat effectively supplied warmth and durability. Its coarse wool resisted seawater and its wooden toggles proved strong in the midst of strenuous seafaring activities. This was the perfect fit for the Royal Navy’s sailors, except for its length. The duffel coat was accordingly lengthened so that it fell down to the thighs, and sometimes, the knees. It was so popular that military officers proudly wore it during World War II. As the duffel coat transcended into the fashion world, its physical appearance and construction

“The return of the duffel coat in today’s fashion world demonstrates a similar nostalgic lust”

DECEMBER 2013

remained relatively unchanged. However, the way in which it was worn has greatly evolved. The conclusion of World War II brought masses of GIs home to empty families galvanizing the famous Baby Boom of the 1950s. Because of the large number of returning soldiers, there was a huge surplus of military uniforms, including the duffel coat. Stores started to decorate their windows with these coats. Beatniks during this period of social turmoil ravened the mannequins dressed in these coats and added them to their own wardrobe. The angry Beatniks sought defiance of a society whose individuality had been replaced by uniformed suits and cookie cutter houses. The duffel jacket was an outward expression of this defiance and was one that glorified the lust for adventure, the willingness to struggle, and the individuality of an older time. The return of the duffel coat in today’s fashion world demonstrates a similar nostalgic lust in today’s culture. The 1950s and today share a parallel sense of societal emptiness. The 1950s were dominated by a plutocratic

machine that was operated by encroaching business CEOs promoting the yes men and fixing any clogs in the system. Today in the midst of the Aztec’s post-apocalyptia, our society is experiencing a similar emptiness. Due to economic instability and social turbulence, people are disillusioned with this current societal state. In a culture where the return of vintage pieces is mainstream, people are seen as wanting to escape their present status and start anew. Wearing these pieces shows a wish to return to the old, believing that former times were the “golden age”. From its beginnings of protecting sailors from the viscous Northern Atlantic’s winds to the 21st century runway, the duffel coat has evolved greatly. Wearing it portrays a love for olden times where danger and peril was so eminent that it filled the air. It is truly one of the great vintage pieces that will never go out of style and is an essential for any bold, daring person with a hint of foolhardiness. Remember, in order to pull off the look, always have that cigar or pipe perched between your fingers. STYLE

THE PERFECT SUITCASE

text by jenna gianelli illustration by pimploy phongsirivech

Tips for packing and heading home for winter break To all of you Emersonians going home for winter break, this one’s for you. Whether you are headed home for the entire month, or only a week or two, here is an easy-to-read guide that will teach you how to pack up your belongings quickly and efficiently.

STEP ONE

DECEMBER 2013

(one week before winter break) Brainstorm a list. Jot down items that come to your mind so you won’t forget to pack them later on. Organize your list; break it down into categories like clothes (basics, pajamas, casual, dressy), shoes, toiletries, and travel essentials (money, travel information, technology). It might be helpful to keep this list on your phone. This way you can’t lose it and you’ll always be able to access it. To make sure you don’t over or under pack, consider the following tips: 1. Girls, you should to pack a variety of bras. Pack different kinds (strapless, pushup, etc.) in all of the essential colors (white, tan, and black). Make sure you plan accordingly with what shirts you packed. 2. When packing pajamas, think about options that can pass as outfits. Leggings, yoga pants, sweatpants, tank tops, and t-shirts are all great options. 3. Pack the shirts you wear the most and then add the ones you think would be put to use. 4. Even if you’re travelling to a warmer climate, bring at least one pair of jeans. 5. When packing outerwear, keep in mind that one coat will do. Don’t pack every jacket just because you can, pick the one that you wear most often. 6. Shoes should include flip-flops/sandals (weather dependent), a casual pair (for example, Toms or Sperrys), a pair of dress shoes, a pair of sneakers, and a pair of boots. 7. Only bring basic toiletries, like a toothbrush, deodorant and face wash. Keep in mind that your parents are likely to provide most of the necessities back at home. 8. Your travel essentials should be just that, essential. All that you need is a wallet (that includes your license/ I.D., and some source of money, either paper or plastic) and your phone and laptop. Don’t forget your chargers!

STEP TWO

(a couple days before you leave) Begin packing. Use your list and check the items off as you go. Try not to throw random items into your suitcase. If it wasn’t on the list you worked on all week, you probably don’t need it. To help avoid wrinkling… 1. Pack heavy items like shoes and toiletries at the bottom of your suitcase. 2. Layer plastic bags or tissue between clothes. 3. Roll your softer garments, and fold the stiffer ones on top of one another (for example, place one shirt on top of another and then fold them together). To help increase space… 1. Rather than packing jewelry, wear the essentials the day that you leave. 2. Stuff your shoes with undergarments, such as socks and underwear. 3. Snake your belts around the perimeter of the bag. 4. Use vacuum seal storage bags. To prevent damages to your belongings make sure you… 1. Put toiletries in a plastic bag to prevent leakage. 2. Roll breakables in bubble wrap (or tissue paper to conserve space) and place the items in between your clothes.

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STEP THREE

(the night before you leave) Walk around your bedroom and observe the items that haven’t been packed yet. As a general rule of thumb, if you come across something that you use more than once a week, throw it in. In addition to packing… Safely store items that are important to you. Any clothes should be put away in drawers or hung up in a closest and shoes should be kept out of the open as well, hidden in bins or drawers. Jewelry and other valuables should be put away in a drawer or closet to keep them safe.

STEP FOUR

(day of leaving) Not only should you pack away your belongings but you also need to pack away your room or your apartment. Make sure you remove all plugs from their outlets and shut off all of the lights. Close your blinds and lock the door on your way out, to ensure your room or apartment, and all of your possessions left behind, are safe. LIVING

‘RITA ROUNDUP

text by sienna mintz photo by kelsey davis

Boston is chock full of margarita connoisseurs. Your Mag took one for the team to find you the best tequila infused cocktails in town. The art of the margarita is as simple as it is complex. With only a few ingredients, this Mexican cocktail runs the risk of being too sweet, sour, salty, or boozy. Of course, the easy way out is to buy a pre-made mix, but that’s a rookie move. Eat enough guacamole and it might taste alright, but you’re better off leaving it to the pros. As luck would have it, there are a number of tequilarias in Boston that do all the work for you, crafting mouthwatering and dangerously delicious margaritas. Here’s a roundup of some of the best Your Mag approved ‘ritas you can get your hands on. ¡Salud!

PATRONS

Formerly known as Big City, this Allston staple is home to 80 beers and an abundance of margaritas to choose from. While you may not get the highest caliber of Mezcal, you will get a creative interpretation of the Mexican cocktail. In particular, the Cinnamon Apple Margarita (served in pitcher form) is shaken with fresh pressed apple cider and Cuervo Cinge, a cinnamon flavored tequila, and topped with a maple cinnamon sugar rim. Traditionalists would be sorely displeased by Patrons’ margaritas, but the rest of us are in for a treat. Oh, and don’t forget the Fiesta Grande Deluxe Nachos, which are piled high with pickled jalapeños, scallions, and anything and everything else you could possibly think to put on a plate of tortilla chips.

EL PAINTED BURRO

Nestled in Davis Square, El Painted Burro hosts a warm and inviting atmosphere decorated with teal and red accents. Sit in the restaurant and chow down on inspired tacos or cut to the chase in the attached bar, where the margarita magic happens. With just the right amount of tang, their De La Casa margarita will have you puckering your lips as you down the whole thing and order another. Made with Agavales blanco, Combier, and lime juice, this ‘rita is simple and spectacular. For a less conventional experience, order any other drink off the menu, like the Hibiscus Margarita, made with Hibiscus infused tequila, elderflower liqueur, and citrus. DECEMBER 2013

PAPAGAYO

Come to Papagayo for the tableside-made guacamole and stay for the margaritas. Located in both Fort Point and steps from Emerson on West Street, this place has the art of crafting margaritas down to a science. Made with 100% blue agave tequila, orange liqueur, fresh squeezed lime juice, and agave nectar, Papagayo’s margaritas are not to be forgotten. With their generous pours of top shelf tequila, you’ll never get near margarita mix again. Most popular on the extensive list of sumptuous ‘ritas is the Ronarita, a frozen margarita topped off with a chilled Coronita (a.k.a. the cutest beer bottle in history).

LOLITA

Brick walls, tufted leather booths, and red fleur-de-lis wallpaper create a warm and sensual atmosphere in this Newbury-adjacent cocina and tequila bar. While other eateries serve complimentary bread and butter, Lolita steps it up with gratis tequila infused shaved ice to get your night started. The margaritas, served by the glass or pitcher, are the real stars here though. The Lolita margarita challenges the norm, replacing orange with grapefruit and it is shaken with Zapopen Reposado, Combier, and simple syrup. Or, match the red lighting that illuminates the bar with the Diablo, a blend of Lunazul Reposado, Combier, Serrano chiles, blood oranges, pineapple, and strawberry. At the end of the night, Lolita sends you on your way with pop rocks topped cotton candy. Seriously.

‘RITA LINGO: AGAVE – a succulent native to Mexico whose nectar is distilled to create tequila and mezcal TEQUILA – a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the blue agave plant MEZCAL – a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the maguey plant, a form of agave REPOSADO – a variety of tequila that has been aged in oak barrels TRIPEL SEC – an orange peel infused liqueur

LIVING

THE DIGITAL DIET

text by jennifer leahy

One of the best things about the holiday season is the food. It’s so easy to spend all your energy downing gingerbread cookies and mulled wine that getting to the gym seems like more effort than it’s worth. Luckily, there really is an app for everything. Give Candy Crush a rest and get moving with these awesome fitness apps that’ll keep you in check. CRUISE CONTROL

Please don’t stop the music. Cruise Control is an app that creates a music playlist that matches your cadence, target pace, and heart rate.

FOODUCATE

This grocery-store navigator aims to help you better analyze food labels and get key information without swimming through the marketing jargon. The app allows users to scan items right in the store and will highlight their positive and negative attributes. It grades each item based on its healthiness, and will even offer up a healthier alternative if one is available.

ZOMBIES, RUN!

Run for your life! This action-packed app turns a jog in the park or a run on the treadmill into a thrilling game. You’ll run faster than ever when you hear the zombies getting closer through your headphones. Tailor a playlist to this real life video game for a more lively chase, but whatever you do, don’t look back.

TEEMO: THE FITNESS ADVENTURE GAME!

DECEMBER 2013

Turns a regular exercise routine into an amazing adventure. Users can choose to climb Everest, hike the Inca trail, or go to any other exotic location right from the treadmill. Choose from 10 adventures and follow the storyline while working out. Create teams with your friends and complete adventures together all to the tune of your own iTunes library or Spotify playlist.

RUNKEEPER

Is an app for anyone who likes to break a sweat outdoors. This free app will track your runs, walks, bike rides, and hikes using the GPS on your phone. It keeps track of your pace, distance, and time and will coach you through your headphones while you exercise. Set goals for yourself and RunKeeper will help you lay out plans to help you achieve them. Share your progress with friends by posting your activity on Facebook and Twitter. You can also sync RunKeeper with other fitness and health apps to give you a deeper understanding of your overall health.

MY FITNESS PAL

Lets you calorie count and track your eating habits right from your phone. With the largest food database online, this dieting app will help you stay on track to a healthier life. With over 350 cardio and strength exercises to choose from, you can tailor your workouts to your personal goals and even share your progress with friends along the way.

Is a free app, but requires the purchase of an electronic wristband. This app tracks your sleep and physical activity by monitoring your pulse. Log your food intake for a more comprehensive look at your health, from sleep patterns to your physical strength.

WASHI WHAT?

text by madeline bilis

This eco-friendly tape renders Scotch a thing of the past. WASHI TAPE EXPLAINED

Washi tape’s popularity is increasing by the minute, and is trending among crafters around the world. Washi is a Japanese style of paper, made from the bark of gampi, mitsumata, and paper mulberry trees. Although the tape is made from paper, the decorative craft supply isn’t as delicate as it may seem, with its consistency being similar to that of masking tape. Essentially, washi tape is a smaller, cuter, and more hip version of masking tape. What makes washi tape unique is its ability to be peeled away from a surface without leaving sticky residue. The manufacturing of the tape has spread far beyond Japan because of its skyrocketing popularity within the last few years. It can now be found in craft stores, and Etsy shops, as well as dozens of online retailers, like wishywashy.com. Prices of rolls vary, but most average-sized rolls go for about $5. The newfound fame of washi tape has given way to the mass production of endless colors, patterns, and possibilities.

THE WASHI KNOW-HOW

If trying to think of one of washi tape’s endless possibilities isn’t working out, there are loads of ways people already use it that you can reference. It’s easy to get sucked into the countless ideas on websites like Pinterest and Buzzfeed. Gift wrapping, labeling, and jazzing up things like notebooks, greeting cards, furniture, storage boxes, clothespins, pens, vases, cups, keyboards, electrical cords, phone chargers, phone cases, and basically anything else, are just a few of the ways you can use it. It has recently gained popularity in nail art designs, as well. And, of course, it’s a great alternative to regular old Scotch tape, or duct tape, and happens to be environmentally safer. The bottom line: washi tape can make just about anything cute! However, its unique characteristic of easily removal makes the tape ideal for things like temporary wall paper, and wall designs—perfect for college dorms and apartments.

WASHI ON WALLS

Why would you want to put tape on a wall? Because it looks awesome! Washi tape, and walls are a match made in heaven, and decorating on a budget has never been easier. You can buy wide rolls of washi tape to cover a whole wall as temporary wallpaper or you can buy thinner rolls to make designs on a blank wall. Alternating two colors or patterns to create stripes can make a cool accent wall. Thinner tape works great for creating picture frames, and outlining otherwise boring fixtures like light switches and door handles. You can also create geometric patterns, and designs, or faux-windows, and door knockers. If you appreciate small details, you might like putting tape on the side of the door where the latch is located so you can catch a glimpse of color each time it opens. The holidays are just around the corner, and you can even use washi tape to make fun seasonal decorations. With washi tape being a relatively new fad, it is possible that its greatest uses are yet to be discovered. So, go buy some washi tape, think outside the box, and create! LIVING

YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT

text by matt mullen photography by yijung tae

Here at Emerson, where you buy your food says more about you than you think Stepping into the Whole Foods in Beacon Hill can only be described as transcendent. Upon entering the sliding doors, you are greeted by a towering display of apples; they glimmer green, red, and golden. Stretching before you are aisles and aisles, stacked high with organic food and natural products. In one aisle you smell soap; the next, fresh-baked bread. Meanwhile, in the Shaw’s on Boylston, the pleasant clicks of price scanners fill the air and carts glide over the shinning linoleum tile. Here you’ll find a whole aisle dedicated to cereal, and another with just Mexican foods. Near the side door there is a monolithic display of canned soups. Across the street at Trader Joe’s is a tiny space bustling with activity. There are colorful murals on the walls and a sample table of cookie butter served on apples. Products with funny names and hand drawn labels fill people’s carts as they wander through the maze-like aisles. Don DeLillo, in his novel White Noise, wrote of the supermarket, “This place recharges us spiritually.” He was not the first to notice the supernatural quality of supermarkets, and here in Boston he is not the only one. Emerson students are fiercely divided between which places they choose to shop, and simultaneously (and maybe unknowingly), recharge spiritually. Which is the best? The choice comes down to three: Whole Foods, Shaw’s, and Trader Joe’s. There are two Whole Foods near Emerson and both are similar. The signature ambiance is comfortable and earthy. Organic, local, and free-range reign supreme in this supermarket. It’s where what’s on the label is almost as important as what’s on the inside. Every product has a healthy or artisanal spin, ranging from the meats to the Whole Foods brand toilet paper (which is made from

recycled plant fibers). Meandering through the aisles, you will most likely encounter things you’ve never heard of or tasted— quail eggs, chia seed pods, vegan sugar, sea beans…the list goes on. A criticism of Whole Foods is that it lacks cheaper options, and has only a few brands to choose from. Screenwriting major Marina Coddaire ‘15, shops at Whole Foods and claims she always will. “I shop at Whole Foods because every time I go it’s like an adventure. I find something new and it’s always delicious.” Coddaire says she likes the atmosphere of Whole Foods, where everything feels “homey.” According to her, shopping there feels less like going to a major grocery store than a small-town market does. Film production major Tori Loubert ‘16 says she will sacrifice ambiance for convenience and price. “I find it to be pretty expensive, and they never seem to have exactly what I want,” says Loubert, who lives on campus. She prefers Shaw’s, which is most closely located next to the Prudential Center. Shaw’s takes a different approach than Whole Foods when it comes to tapping into people’s spiritual side. Rather than emphasize the experience of shopping, Shaw’s emphasizes the product. There is an underlying geometry to the aisles of the store, where food is stacked flatly and neatly. Whole Foods, on the other hand, prefers to cluster its products in natural bunches. “I like the design of the Shaw’s,” says film major Tony Simonetti ‘16. “It feels like the Wal-Mart of just food. I feel like it’s never going to end.” With it’s linoleum floors, fluorescent lights, and broad aisles, Shaw’s clearly values utility. For some people, this is the ultimate draw: a place where food is always available and always in the same place they left it. Both the Shaw’s on Boylston and in Allston are even open

“I shop at Whole Foods because every time I go it’s like an adventure”

DECEMBER 2013

24 hours. “I like Shaw’s because it’s easy,” says Loubert. “It’s great for when you’re not looking for something special.” Trader Joe’s, with its smaller size and distinctly friendly vibe, is often considered the underdog among major grocery stores, but its folksy ethos is not ignored in a college town like Boston. The Trader Joe’s on Boylston is in a tight, but cozy, basement space. The aisles here are narrow and windy, stacked with colorful, cartoonish displays. (All the labels and price tags are hand drawn.) As Trader Joe’s generally only sells Trader Joe’s brand, they have been able to collectivize the shopping experience like nowhere else. Foods have clever titles (Oreo imitations become Joe’s O’s and chocolate syrup is Midnight Moo), and the store workers always appear to be bespectacled, tattooed college graduates. At peak hours— weekend mornings until around 7 p.m.— the store fills to capacity with people who snake through the aisles and form a giant line while they grab their haul. If the entire process sounds claustrophobic in any way, it’s not. Trader Joes is praised for its all around comfortable

shopping experience. With its abundant samples and low-cost options, making food shopping as stress free and even fun seems to be one of the goals of the company. In doing so, shoppers become highly loyal to the store. Theatre studies major Madison Gerringer ‘17 describes herself as a devotee of Trader Joe’s. “Shaw’s is too big and noisy and Whole Foods is too snobby,” says Gerringer. Loubert loves Trader Joes for their vegetarian options. “TJ’s is super vegetarian friendly. I usually go here in conjunction with Shaw’s so that I can get more vegetarian frozen food, which can be difficult to find in supermarkets.” Is Trader Joe’s the perfect balance between utilitarian Shaw’s and idealistic Whole Foods? “I’d say so,” says Gerringer. “Plus, have you tried their guacamole?” But there are still critics. Coddaire says she feels “crammed” in Trader Joe’s and Simonetti questions their lack of brand diversity. So, is there really a “best?” It seems that, like with most things in life, choosing a grocery store is as keenly personal as any. What you need to ask yourself instead is: “What do I value, and where can I purchase it?” LIVING

SELFIESTEEM

text by emily walker photo by nydia hartono model: alexandra james

A picture is worth a thousand words, but what are a thousand pictures of your face worth?

DECEMBER 2013

Take the camera, hold it high, tilt the face, snap the picture, select a filter, upload, and repeat... In the last five years, the “selfie” has taken over the newsfeeds of countless social media outlets like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Selfie culture as we know it today can be traced back to the days of Myspace. The low-quality webcams at the time were not suited for a flattering facial picture. Thus angled “body shots” were posted from below the neck. Some women would even create an illusion of a larger pout by inflating their lips into a kissing position, and thus “duck face” was born (and, unfortunately, has yet to fade away). One of the largest social media outlets for photo sharing, Instagram, became a web domain in 2010. Celebrities like Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, and Ke$ha use Instagram to share “everyday” pictures with fans that are made to look glamorous against mundane settings. The popularity of Instagram among the famous crowd has driven millions of young teens to “follow” their accounts and imitate their photos with hopes of mastering the “selfie” themselves. It seems that selfies, which can be taken with the click of a button or touch of a screen at the pool, in the car, or even at a funeral (see: selfiesatfuneral.tumblr.com) have become a way to show off where you’ve been, what you’re doing, and most importantly, what your face looks like, in case anyone forgot since yesterday. Instagram filters make taking the perfect selfie nearly effortless. “X-Pro II” filter emphasizes blues and greens, perfect to make a beach selfie look more natural. The “Earlybird” filter adds a romantic, golden light to photos while browning the shadows around the picture, embellishing bone structure. The “1977” and “Lord Kelvin” filters are most popular for creating a cracked, faux old-school effect, thinning out baby fat and highlighting the pupils of the eyes. The question is, why are so many teenagers and young adults so consumed with their own faces, and why do they feel the need to share a seemingly endless stream of identical photos under the guise of different filters? While most are likely seeking attention, the selfie becomes problematic when its taker becomes addicted to “likes” that replace their inner self-esteem.

So, are selfies good or bad for our self-image? Joanne Deak, Ph.D, a psychologist who specializes in self-esteem issues with young girls, says the selfie culture has become pervasively competitive among the teenagers of this generation. “The problem is that many girls who are doing ‘selfies’ are focused on the first word: self. But, to hold oneself in esteem means that you respect who and what you are, what you do, what you believe in. If you focus too much on how you look or whether you are the center of attention, it actually diminishes that esteem part,” she says. Deak argues that girls in middle school and high school (between the ages of 13-17) who make a habit out of taking selfies will be forever unaware that this habit can grow. Too many selfies can give friends, boys, and even future employers the wrong idea about what the person believes is important in life. Deak says, “I am sorry to say that as a psychologist, I worry about the health and happiness of girls who need to flood social media with selfies. It is usually a sign of a narcissist or someone with low self-esteem.” Alternatively, Sarah Sloboda, author of the ebook How to Take the Best Selfies, sees taking a selife as a necessary life skill. “It seems it’s more important than ever that our online personas present us in the best light,” she says. “Just like you would dress appropriately for a date or a job interview, I think it’s an important tool to know how to take a selfie that shows you in the best light online.” Sloboda says that today’s selfie culture is an important footnote in the history of photography, and even in the history of personal events. “Who doesn’t want to look their best? The camera doesn’t know what the eye knows about lighting conditions, etc., so just pointing the camera at yourself without an awareness of camera angles and lighting doesn’t always make for the most flattering pictures.” Selfie culture has become a phenomenon that presents plenty of potential, but even more risk. The stream of constant, self-obsessed snapshots and potentially esteem-crushing selfies may be doing more harm than good. Getting double digit likes on Instagram is one thing, but it begs the question of the bigger picture behind selfie culture.

LIVING

text by joanne paquin photos by danny chamberlain

EDC BRINGS ON THE LIGHTNING

The Emerson Dance Company will soon showcase their winter spectacle. Find out more about the incredible company community, history and why you should not miss this years show.

DECEMBER 2013

Michael Lupacchino ‘10 had been dancing since he was two years old, and his arrival at Emerson was not going to stop him from following his passion. However, at his first organization fair, he saw there were no recognized dance companies, and so he set out to create one. In 2007, he did just that. The Emerson Dance Company (EDC) was born, and Michael was running it. He held auditions, got choreographers together, and set up the first 2007 showcase. It was a small group of dancers (about 25) but they performed proudly and it became a defining moment for the EDC. The next year, in the fall of 2008, the group expanded to more than 45 members, which then grew to 80 members in the spring of 2009. Due to their commitment to excellence and welcoming environment, they won the title of Emerson Organization of the Year in 2009. Allyson Meca ‘14, the current president of the company says, “Michael’s hope was that EDC, long after his departure from Emerson, would continue to grow, prosper, and inspire others to enjoy and perform the art of dance. I’d say we’ve succeeded in preserving his powerful legacy.” Since the foundation of the company, the Emerson Dance Company has been open to students with any amount of dance experience. Their showcases are balanced with pieces of beginner, intermediate, and advanced styles, and the choreographers love teaching new dancers. Lauren Kelly ‘15, vice president of EDC, says, “We pride ourselves on past successes of our dancers and love watching them grow while in our company. We have had dancers audition that have had no experience that were then cast in number of pieces, and loved it so much that they are now choreographing for our showcases.” Since anyone can join, here’s the best way to do it: attend a Wednesday night master class. This is a class taught by members of the company and they cover many

different styles of dance. Hip hop, musical theater, tap, ballet, and stretch techniques are just a few. The classes are also taught by people outside of the college. For example, Ashley Piccinni, a pilates instructor at Ombe, recently held a pilates class, and now the company is hoping to hold a tap workshop with a well-known Boston company, so be on the look out for that. These master classes are held all year long, usually on Wednesday nights, but the best way to learn about upcoming classes is on the company’s Facebook page. “We love seeing new faces at these classes and we’re open to all levels of dancers,” Kelly says. After attending several master classes, the next step toward involvement is an audition. Auditions are held in both the fall and spring semesters. They consist of a warm-up period, across the floor exercises, and four choreography periods in hip-hop, jazz, contemporary and tap. Kelly says, “We have up to 120 dancers come out each semester of all different experiences and backgrounds to learn our choreography and enjoy the free day of dance.” Right now, the audition period has passed and the students are working towards their first showcase, which will be held on Dec. 12 at the Paramount Theater. The theme this year is “Electric.” The main point of the showcase is to “premiere Emerson student’s choreography and talent,” as well as allow students of any major or experience to get involved. This winter performance will consist of 15 student-choreographed pieces, and a piece from special guest choreographer of Urbanity Dance, Meghan Anderson. Also, Emerson Urban Dance Theater (EUDT) and Emerson’s Spirit Squad were invited to perform, so Lauren Kelly believes it will be great fun. The showcase is going to include many styles of dance, such as hip-hop, contemporary and tap. Kelly says, “We also try to include at least one new style of dance each semester and we are so thrilled to add Swing, which will be choreographed by Ethan Weiser ‘15, and modern, which

will be choreographed by Meghan Anderson.” Lauren Kelly says, “We are hoping for a full house so that our dancers, choreographers, and crew can feel the support for their hard work from the Emerson community.” On top of all of this dancing, the Emerson Dance Company likes to partake in many community service projects. In the spring, the company holds a dance convention in which the majority of the funds go to a charity. The Boston University Dance Team, Emmanuel’s team and Emerson’s own EUDT have attended in the past, and last year, the convention raised money for Le Cure Couture, an organization fighting to cure breast cancer in New Hampshire. This semester, the company is discussing potential projects with Desert Angels and Special Olympics, as well as some on-campus organizations, including an

upcoming master class with Emerson’s Peace and Social Justice (EPSJ). Kelly remarks, “I am a junior this year and I auditioned for Emerson Dance Company my freshman year and have been involved with it ever since. This company has given me so much joy. I am honored to be the vice president because we truly are a family and we want to see each other grow and be successful. It seems impossible that with over 90 members of all different majors, ages, styles, and experiences that we can be a family but these people are so talented and have joined together to create something amazing. I love these people so much and am so proud of each and every member. They have completely changed my Emerson experience for the better and I hope they know that!”

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE EMERSON DANCE COMPANY,

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Be sure to check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pages/Emerson-DanceCompany/388155067899502, and their Youtube channel, www.youtube.com/channel/UC7_FLwA4UB2f-wEcdSvwiA. But the best way to learn more information is to ask current members and attend the bi-annual showcase.

text by michael mahin photo by tucker friend

LINSKY DEBUT EP MAKES SPLASH He loves hip-hop. He loves soul. He loves funk. He loves jazz. You’ll love him.

The first track of Joshua Linsky's astounding debut EP, International Connection, is aptly named “Awakening” as it sets the absolute right note for the rest of the EP's four highly unconventional tracks. International Connection is an awakening, of sorts, precisely because it sounds very little like anything else you're likely to hear on the radio or in the indie circuits as of right now. The EP, which Linsky calls his “first attempt at directing a recording project,” seamlessly melds hip-hop, soul and jazz influences but more importantly, promises a startlingly assured and truly unique artistic voice working in the industry. Linsky himself is a recent Berklee College of Music graduate and aspiring musician who manages a 13 member live hip-hop band entitled The Urban Nerdz. Having been raised with a deep love and appreciation for music, Linsky has had a life-long interest in creating and performing musical content and further claims: “I've spent two-thirds of my life playing music, and that's all I want to do in the future.” Linsky began the process of conceptualizing and creating International Connection during his junioryear at Berklee in which he participated in a music seminar. Prompted to create original material, he recalls performing two songs he had written himself, which would later become the EP's latter two tracks, “No No Pe” and “Thumpin.” Inspired by the success of The Urban Nerdz, Linsky then decided to write and produce his own material for a potential EP, while collaborating with friends and fellow musicians he had met at Berklee, as well as The Urban Nerdz members themselves. He began recording material his senior year at the Record Company in Boston, concluding an eight-month experience which

allowed Linsky to, in his own words, “find my own voice”. “It was extremely rewarding to finally get everything we needed recorded,” says Linsky upon reflecting on this challenging but ultimately valuable creative experience. “It was even more rewarding to get the final versions of the tracks towards the end of this past summer. Mom, Dad, and I sat in the living room together and listened to it for the first time. That's when I knew I had successfully finished my first recording project. Having this music to share with my family and friends and the family and friends of everybody involved is the most rewarding part of doing it.” “I hope that the listener can find something in my music that they can relate to, whether it's the actual feeling the music gives them or something in the lyrics that literally speaks to them,” says Linsky, further elaborating on his belief in music as a communal experience. It is not difficult to imagine that Linsky's material will speak to a number of listeners. The EP, which consists of four tracks entitled “Awakening,” “Runaway,” “No No Pe,” and “Thumpin,” is a head-rush of spoken word poetry, hip-hop incantations and jazz-funk medleys which touch upon a variety of issues including freedom, commercialism, and lost love. On “Awakening,” guest vocalist Selina Elsie laments: “Stepping on toes as to who's a slave/You are not free if you get paid.” Early on, “Awakening” has the ethereal charm of Kate Bush's most idiosyncratic work (think 1982's the Dreaming) before blending some R&B undertones with hip-hop vocals that make for an immediately addictive listen. The track should be a mess, seemingly blending so many diverse influences. On the record, it's absolutely killer, easily the strongest of the entire EP.

“I try and find something I can relate to in everything I listen to.”

DECEMBER 2013

a whole lot of those artists are still out here pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation; that fact alone is quite inspiring.” One of the album's most intriguing elements is its utilization of spoken-word poetry, relatively uncommon in the current musical climate. Linsky comments: “I knew going in that I wanted to incorporate spoken word. It's a part of the art, you know? Speaking, telling a story, conveying a message with words that coincide with the music. When I was arranging the first piece, I had spoken word verses in mind.” Ultimately, Linsky has made an eminently listenable, musically and thematically complex EP full of the personal and idiosyncratic touches that mark the most exciting debuts. Of course, it's only four songs; Linsky has a whole lifetime, and a whole body of work, ahead of him. He plans to head back to the studio this December to produce his first full-length album, while drawing on the musical and thematic cues utilized by International Connection. “If I can consistently put out a new recording project every year while performing and collaborating with other artists and traveling the world, I know I'll reach my destination, whatever that may be,” says Linsky of his plans for the future.

Listen to International Connection at musicbylinsky.com

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Later on “Runaway”, featured vocalist Mr. Dubuisson raps: “I lost you but I still played/You played me but you still lost, touche”. The song clearly evokes jazz rhythms while blending a hip-hop lyric sensibility, and makes for a surprisingly smooth listen, melancholy but never overly self-serious. “No No Pe” begins as a stripped-back, spooky jazz-room jam before evolving into a lively reminiscence on childhood. Lastly, “Thumpin'” is enormous fun, finding an irresistible R&B beat over which featured vocalist Mr. Campbell is allowed to speak on behalf of the artist's struggle. It's a surprisingly cohesive if musically and thematically diverse debut. “I'm influenced by so many different artists,” says Linsky. “I try and find something I can relate to in everything I listen to. I love hip hop, I love soul, I love funk, I love jazz.” And it comes with an impressive sense of history. International Connection evokes long-established genres with equal reverence and innovation. Linsky builds upon familiar sounds over the course of the EP's four tracks, impressively deepening familiar genre tropes (long lost love as a jazz-blues staple, for example) while fleshing out his own unique sound. “History inspires me,” he states. “The people that have already done it before me, in their way... they inspire me. They have their place in history and

TELL ME A STORY

TEXT BY CHRISTABEL FRYE PHOTO COURTESY OF JUSTIN NEY

Oct. 11, 1980 changed the way people view coming out today

DECEMBER 2013

Human Rights Campaign (HRC), an organization dedicated to furthering the advancements for LBGTQ rights, celebrates National Coming Out Day every year. Oct. 11, 2013 marked the 25th anniversary of the March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. The HRC website talks about the history of coming out. It says, “We first observed National Coming Out Day as a reminder that one of our most basic tools is the power of coming out. One out of every two Americans has someone close to them who is gay or lesbian…“Our stories can be powerful to each other.” That story is different for every person. Even if you have come out, you don’t know how someone else did and what that someone went through. Everyone has a story that deserves to be told. On bulletin boards all over campus, a poster stands out. It reads, “Tell Me a Story.” Justin Ney ‘14 wants to hear people’s coming out stories. He knows that there is an underlying tale connecting each person’s story; a common denominator that he can extract a narrative from. Ney, a film production major, is interviewing people about their coming out stories. The approach he is using can be described as unique. For his honors thesis film, he is letting the interviewees tell the story. Creating a visual from small pieces of audio, with the working title Tell Me a Story: A Coming Out Narrative. “I got the idea because I knew I wanted [to] focus on

coming out. I wanted to explore the history, perceptions in media, and the future of [it]. I thought about previous TV shows and films that have queer characters, and a lot of the time I felt like either their coming out stories were overlooked or not portrayed very realistically. So, I wanted to create a film using people’s actual stories and their voices.” This experimental approach is described by Ney as “psuedo-documentary.” It’s part narrative, part documentary. He, with the help of producer Hogan Seidel ‘14 and director of photography Jeffrey Taylor ‘14, wants to take the stories people share and put them to a visual of a single character to represent LGBTQ identities. He is taking fragments of people’s true stories, and piecing them together to create one narrative. “I’m going to cast a main actor as an androgynous character, who will represent all the different queer identities in a way that the main character is label-less. My film is trying to portray different peoples’ coming out stories. I’m looking to structure the film into three distinct parts, as there are three distinct stages of coming out: [coming] out to yourself and learning to accept it, [coming] out to friends/family/coworkers, [and] indoctrinating your queer identity into your normal, everyday life.” Ney has to have the film finished by the end of the semester. For further information on the project, please email tellmeastoryemerson@gmail.com.

THE HOBBIT:

DESOLATION OF SMAUG

text by rivka herrera

The long awaited sequel is about to premiere in theaters. Here is Your Mag’s preview of what you can expect and look forward to. Bilbo Baggins, played by Martin Freeman, is up for another adventure in The Hobbit sequel, The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug scheduled to release Dec. 14 Peter Jackson will surely “do it again.” Because Jackson directed The Lord of the Rings trilogy, it was expected he would direct The Hobbit; though fans were surprised he decided to split the novel into three films. He justified this split by saying, “We know how much of the story of Bilbo Baggins, the Wizard Gandalf, the Dwarves of Erebor, the rise of the Necromancer, and the Battle of Dol Guldur will remain untold if we do not take this chance.” Certainly speaking to all the real Hobbit fans. But what is to be expected in the ensuing film other than great special effects? The first of the trilogy, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey left off around chapter six, when the eagles save the dwarves, Bilbo, and Gandalf before they are killed by the ensuing Orcs. The story should then pick up around chapter seven, when Gandalf announces that he will have to leave the group again, but not before taking them to Beorn, a half man, half bear, to gather supplies for the remainder of their travels. Judging by the film’s title, The Desolation of Smaug, and the trailer, released Oct. 1, the group is expected to continue their journey with fervor, meeting a few familiar Lord of the Rings’ characters along the way. The trailer depicts Bilbo standing on the treasures of the old dwarvan kingdom, Erebor, in the presence of Smaug, saying, “the tails and songs fall awfully short of your enormity, oh Smaug, the stupendous.” So the

notorious Dragon battle scene can be expected. As well as an introduction to every woman’s favorite Elf, Legolas, played by Orlando Bloom. Though the character of Legolas never actually appears in the novel, in The Lord of the Rings, he is identified as the son of Thranduil, who appears as the Elvenking in The Hobbit. Bloom’s character will surely attract a wider female audience, and a romance between him and a new mystery Elven woman will add an air of femininity to the adventure. For all you film buffs, the movie was shot in 3D 48 framesper-second. It will be released in High Frame Rate 3D in select theatres as well as in 2D and 3D formats, and IMAX. Allowing Jackson’s infamous special effects to jump out at you in the theatre. The famous Jackson team, including Guillermo del Toro, Philippa Boyens, and wife, Fran Walsh will certainly deliver. Especially as they try to incorporate a lot of Tolkien’s planned Hobbit revision notes, which were published after his death. Jackson said, “All of the expanding and embellishment was based on the ideas Tokien was exploring.” Jackson fans should also be on the look out for his famous cameo appearance in his film. Though the film does not follow the traditional storyline it will certainly leave us on the edge of our seats as they incorporate unexpected elements. Between the mix of the captivating plot, story embellishments, and special effects Jackson’s newest film should receive high ratings like his previous Tolkien work, but we’ll just have to sit back and watch to find out.

“Jackson’s newest film should receive high ratings like his previous Tolkien work”

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

DANCING ON MY OWN

text by heather mulgannon photo by rory mccann model: dana stern

Have you skipped out on a concert because you didn’t want to go alone? Hear the voice of Emerson students who tell us why it is time to stop such nonsense. You sit at your computer anxiously waiting for the clock to change. Just ten more minutes and it will be time. But as you wait, a terrible thought crosses your mind “what if no one else wants to go?” When you are a big fan of music and going to concerts this is something that probably happens a lot more then you would like. You get so excited for your favorite band to be playing a show in town and then you realize that either none of your friends want to go or they just aren’t free. That’s when you are faced with a tough decision, do you go to the concert alone or do you miss your favorite band just because you have no one to go with? Most people in general don’t like doing things alone. Society has told us that it is “weird” or “antisocial” to do things by yourself. Why would anyone choose to do something by themselves, “oh it must be because they have no friends.” But the truth is, sometimes it is worth it to go to a concert alone. For most people the choice to go to a concert alone depends mostly on the band. For senior Nick Karidoyanes, Coheed and Cambria is his main exception. “I’ve been to at least ten Coheed and Cambria shows by myself, I feel like if I’m into the music enough then being alone doesn’t take away from the experience.” Graham Dunn ‘16 has never been to a concert by himself. He and his brother share the same taste in music so they always attend shows together. He says that if that weren’t the case though he would only go to see his favorite bands by himself. “For me, it’s because part of what makes a concert great is sharing a possibly once in a lifetime experience with people who enjoy the same thing as you.” Dunn would however go and see his favorite band AFI alone. “Seeing AFI alone would be the same as seeing them

with friends. I feel like I care about them and their music so much that I can relate to and share that experience with all the people around me.” Many people are intimidated by the idea of going to concerts alone because they tend to psych themselves out. They start thinking about how awkward it will be or how they won’t have any fun and usually they end up ruining the experience for themselves. Tori Menson ‘15 goes to concerts all the time and has gotten to experience a few alone. “When you go alone, sometimes there’s a deeper connection felt and there’s always the possibility of making new friends because after all, everyone in the crowd is there for a reason. Also being alone in a crowd can be strangely thrilling. It’s that feeling of anonymity.” She does however believe that nothing beats going to a concert with a good group of friends. “Being able to experience the music live with people who get it, who understand what the music means, it’s great.” Menson likes to get the best of both worlds at a concert. She goes with a group of friends and separates from them to spend some time alone in the crowd. Then when she’s had her fill of alone time she meets back up with them. Justin Ney ‘14 admits that sometimes he prefers going to concerts alone. “There are a lot of positives to going to concerts alone. It can be a really relaxing process. If it’s a band you really want to see it’s way more annoying to try and drag someone who may not share that same love that you do. Ney understands why people might be afraid to go to a concert alone if they have never done it before. “I think people are always nervous about going places alone. Concerts are usually long processes, between getting

“being alone in a crowd can be strangely thrilling”

DECEMBER 2013

there, waiting in line, seeing all the opening acts and then the headliner, possibly waiting around afterwards for autographs, merch, meet and greets. It’s a long time by yourself to be in an intimate environment with strangers. It usually freaks people out.” He stands by the idea that going to a concert alone can be an amazing experience. He says that it’s a time you get to live in the moment by yourself without having to worry if your friends are enjoying themselves as well. That is a big worry when bringing friends to a concert. It’s one thing when you go to a concert with people who share your love for the band. But sometimes you go to a concert with someone who may not know every word to the songs or maybe only knows the bands most popular songs. It’s hard to enjoy yourself if you constantly have to worry if your friends are having fun. Blaise Fritsche ‘15, believes that a big part of going to

concerts is sharing that experience with someone but he isn’t afraid to go to concerts alone. “I usually make friends at concerts but after it’s over we go back to being strangers again.” Many people feel the same way. It’s actually incredibly easy to make friends at concerts. You already know that you share a common interest. But after the concert is over chances are you aren’t going to continue being friends. Concerts are all about living in the moment. Sometimes that means enjoying an amazing experience with friends and sometimes it means getting out of your comfort zone and having some fun by yourself. Next time your favorite band is in town just remember, going to a concert alone isn’t as scary as you think. And you might even make some awesome new friends. So go to a concert alone, have the time of your life, and don’t worry about what anyone else thinks.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

WRAPPED IN RED-ICULOUS

text by rivka herrera

Clarkson just released her first Christmas album. Fabulous or an utter failure? Check out why we think she is trying too hard.

DECEMBER 2013

Wrapped in Red, released Oct. 29, is Kelly Clarkson’s attempt to put her spin on cherished Christmas classics. The album, comprised of 14 songs: 10 classics and four new Christmas jingles, tries desperately to grasp the “holiday spirit,” leaving one wondering, why does pop music have to ruin the classics? In Clarkson’s covers of the Christmas jingles one can easily hear that she is trying too hard. Like the Elvis Presley hit, “Blue Christmas” Clarkson uses the same crooned voice and base guitar, but no one can be the King, not even Clarkson. While her rendition of “Run Run Rudolph” keeps the same taste of rock, Clarkson goes a bit overboard with some of her riffs. Her new version of “Baby it’s Cold Outside,” a song supposedly about a promiscuous relationship kindled in the Christmas spirit, sounds more like a competition between Clarkson and Ronnie Dunn. Her four new Christmas songs, entitled “Just for Now,” “4 Carats,” “Winter Dreams,” and “Wrapped in Red,” sound nothing more than normal Clarkson hits with some holiday lyrics mixed in. Though “Just for Now” shows promise to be a particularly moving song with the opening melody and Clarkson’s sultry voice, a closer look at the lyrics shows that Clarkson isn’t saying much. The song has potential, but the lyrics don’t seem to go deep enough, let alone talk about the holidays. “4 Carats” sounds like a greedier pop version of “Santa Baby,” where one hears

Clarkson asking Santa for her “Diamond ring, just a little something from Tiffany… 4 carats please!” While the song “Winter Dreams” could hardly be considered a Christmas tune if she hadn’t thrown “Christmas” into the lyrics. The album seems to over-compensate for the Christmas spirit with its overtly pop background. The title track, “Wrapped in Red,” is a failed attempt at an “All I Want for Christmas is You” spin off. Lyrics mimic “All I Want for Christmas is You,” as seen with, “But this Christmas I’m gonna risk it all. This Christmas I’m not afraid to fall.” Clarkson hardly brings anything new to the table, making her Wrapped in Red just another holiday compilation, which is getting old. Not only does the music fall short but the album cover doesn’t capture the holiday spirit either: a close up, super imposed, glamour shot of Kelly Clarkson wrapped in a red scarf. Sure, it captures the title of the album, but it is not inviting in the slightest. Though Clarkson should be applauded for her effort in Wrapped in Red truth is, Christmas music lovers are a particularly hard crowd to please. All the great classics have already been done, and there just isn’t enough to make this album any more special than the already beloved favorites. If she really wants to make an impression in the holiday genre then she should consider a more simplistic approach, taking a step away from the excessive pop songs heard year round.

REVIEW: JOHN

text by jake dmochowski

SINGER SARGENT

Brilliance. Brilliance. Brilliance. These three words are most used to describe John Singer Sargent’s watercolors during their first exhibition. as the graphite lines can still be seen underneath, as seen in “The Bridge of Sighs” (1903-1904) and “Gondoliers’ Siesta” (1905). Opaque watercolors bring yet another dimension to the paintings, showing strength and solidity, seen in “White Ships” (1908). Sargent’s time in Paris produced many architectural landscape paintings from low angles, as he would usually paint and work while riding a gondola. Sargent’s low angle brings the images to life in paintings like “Ramón Subercaseaux in a Gondola” (1880) and “All’Ave Maria” (1902-1904.) Another alluring aspect in his urban scenes is the lack of detail in the people’s faces. The facial features are nearly all blurred, leaving the emphasis of the human subjects in the detail of the robes and dresses. However, Sargent’s main focus in his works from 1907-1912 was the effect of light on stone, shown in his “Cararra Quarries” works. Art historians at the MFA say that he is able to capture the “ephemeral dance of shadow and sunlight.” It is true that no other painter in his generation has been able to represent this relationship of light and dark. Be sure to witness the brilliance of John Singer Sargent: Watercolors for yourself at the MFA, which is on now until Jan. 20, 2014.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

John Singer Sargent established himself as the leading portrait painter of his generation. Sargent was born and trained in Paris and spent most of his life living and working in Europe. After spending many years on portraiture, Sargent grew tired and began exploring with landscapes in the early 1900s. Many of these works were painted with transparent and opaque watercolors, and are now on display at the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA). John Singer Sargent’s watercolors have previously been shown in the Carfax Gallery in London in 1905 and most recently at the Brooklyn Museum in New York City earlier in 2013. This is the first time the John Singer Sargent: Watercolors exhibition has been to the MFA. 93 works—mostly watercolor and graphite, some containing oil paint—of landscapes, agricultural and social scenes, and marine vistas are open with the price of admission in the lower level of the MFA. One of the most interesting aspects of the watercolors is the physical composition. Sargent used a combination of transparent and opaque watercolors, and graphite pencils. He began the painting by sketching a very loose image of what he envisioned on the page. Next, Sargent would turn to watercolors to electrify the image. The transparent watercolors provide such texture to the work,

DECEMBER PLAYLIST photo by emma fishman

With the fall semester and 2013 slowly drawing to a close, A&E wants to wish you a happy holiday season. Whether you have plans to go back home and snuggle with loved ones by a fire or lounge out in a sunny paradise, be sure to stay safe, have fun and live it up. Our list of must listen to tracks aims to keep you company during the roller coaster of emotions that can accompany the winter season. Bonne fĂŞte dear YM readers, until next year!

Scan to Listen

DECEMBER 2013

“AWAKENING” Joshua Linsky

“FREIGHT TRAIN” Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds

“75 AND SUNNY” Ryan Montbleau Band

“WHITE CHRISTMAS” Kelly Clarskon

“HAZY SHADE OF WINTER” Simon & Garfunkel

“BANG ON” The Breeders

“BATTLE SCARS” Lupe Fiasco

“HOLDING ON TO YOU” Twenty One Pilots

“BLUE CHRISTMAS” Rod Stewart

“NEVER ALONE” Jim Brickman

“ALIEN DAYS” MGMT

“WINTERTIME LOVE” The Doors

“LIVE LIKE A WARRIOR” Matisyahu

“SUNSHINE” Lupe Fiasco

“WHEN I’M SMALL” Phantogram

“SWAY” Blue October

“WINTER ROSE / LOVE AWAKE” Wings

“JUST GIVE ME A REASON” P!nk

“ONLY LOVE” Anthony Green

“CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’” The Mamas & The Papas

“I SAT BY THE OCEAN” Queens of the Stone Age

“FIXED AT ZERO” VersaEmerge

“PLEASE COME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS” The Eagles

“SUNDAY KIND OF LOVE” Etta James

“MY DEAR ACQUAINTANCE” Regina Spektor

“WINTER SONG” Ingrid Michaelson & Sara Bareilles

“1999” Prince

“BABY IT’S COLD OUTSIDE” Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Jordan ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT