TOMS shoes: The Gift of Giving

During this holiday season, give a gift that will change the life of another. TOMS shoes is a meaningful gift to give for anyone on your list. With every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need, which is their “One for One” movement.

I had met the founder of TOMS shoes, Blake Mycoskie, last year and have supported him and his wonderful cause ever since. In 2006, during a visit to Argentina he discovered that the children in the village had no shoes to protect their feet. He wanted to help and was inspired to create shoes with conscience and created TOMS shoes, short for “Shoes for Tomorrow”. The shoes were inspired by slip-ons called alpargatas he saw local farmers and polo players wearing in Argentina. Now these comfy shoes come in variety of colors, designs and fabrics, or you can even get them in white and customize them yourself as a fun project!

As of last September, TOMS has given over one million pairs of shoes to children in need. They have men’s, women’s, and children’s sizes as well as Vegan options for the shoes. This gift will not only change lives but spread joy and brighten holidays for others. Do good this holiday season!

Second Time Around

I always walked by this store but never went in. This past weekend, I was doing some retail therapy with my close friend and we decided to check it out.

Located at 1728 Chestnut St, Second Time Around promises to be a treasure trove of fashion goodies every time you walk through the door. Second Time Around is an upscale consignment company that carries new and almost new designer clothing and accessories. With 2,700 square feet of merchandise, they feature high end brand name designers, better brand names, and a room full of clothing and accessories priced at $20.00 or less. Not only that, but they also carry mens apparel and accessories, so your boyfriend can browse and shop for himself while you do the rounds.

They really do have great merchandise, and everything was very organized and easy to find. The store is divided up by sizes and categories, which makes it relatively simple for customers to browse.

Not only is it a great place to find a bargain, but it is also a fantastic way to make some money for clearing out your closet! They make it really easy to consign. Customers can either call a location to schedule an in-store appointment, schedule an in-store appointment online, or they can fill out an online consignment form and mail them the items. Some other important information on consigning with Second Time Around: the items are placed on the sales floor for 90 days, customers will receive 40% of the final selling price, and items are priced at 25%-30% of their original retail value.

I am going to recycle my unwanted clothes and accessories, and I hope to earn some money for them! Scheduling a consignment visit with Second Time Around shortly…!

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: Nostalgia Vs. Guilt

Every year on Thanksgiving, being the nostalgic, tradition junkie that I am, I sit down with my family in the morning to watch the Thanksgiving Day Parade. Stemming from traditions seen in Europe, the first parade was put on by Macy’s employees who were first-generation immigrants wanting to have festivals similar to the ones their families experienced growing up in Europe. The parade runs for a whopping three hours, stuffed with overly cheesy holiday music, gigantic floats, marching bands, dancers, celebrities, large cartoon helium balloons and Broadway Show performers. While I admit that I may be getting a little old for this tradition, there are certain things that will always be comforting and take me back to a time when things were a bit simpler and a lot less stressful. I am definitely a sucker for this time of the year and all of the bells and whistles that come along with it. With that said, as I get older, and as a design student, I start to get agitated by certain parade elements that never would have bothered me at a young age. For example, the lip-synching can get pretty terrible and leaves you wondering what would be so wrong with live performances. When you’re young, the performers lip movements being somewhat inconsistent with their singing doesn’t really register in your mind. It’s all magical and flawless and nothing can change that. Nowadays, as I become more and more educated and aware, there is a new emotion that creeps up when watching such an indulgent form of entertainment: GUILT. When you become aware of just how much energy has to be wasted to put on a production of this size, especially at a time when the environment needs as much as help as it can get, your mind starts to wander to these issues as the cast of Sesame Street waves intensely on the screen. Recently a new issue brings this guilt to a higher level; the world is running out of helium. Helium is the world’s second lightest element and is a non-renewable resource. While helium is notorious for making the fun cartoon balloons float high in the sky for the duration of the Macy’s parade, it had also been used to make our voices sound funny (don’t try this at home kiddies), and to help deep sea divers breathe under water. However, putting these entertaining uses aside, Helium is a very important gas that is used for airships, rockets, telescopes and most importantly MRI Scanners. As the Helium runs out, scientists predict that it may run out completely within the next 20 years, leaving the world without a very important resource and possibly leaving hospitals void of the ability to use MRI Scanners. In 2006, the parade production team learned of this issue and limited the amount of balloons they used, but couldn’t rid of them completely due to popular demand. As a society, we seem to care more about entertainment than the well being of the universe, which is probably what causes environmental deterioration in the first place. I can’t help but feel guilty as I giggle watching a gigantic Smurf balloon float down 34^th street. So what ultimately wins out? Do I boycott the parade in favor of the Helium or do I stick to my annual familial traditions and hope that the parade team will eventually make changes? …Until next year, Happy Holidays!

Nancy Dubuc Comes to Drexel...

When Project Runway went to Lifetime Television in 2009 I was incredibly pessimistic. Lifetime Television has always been a channel associated with the victimization of women portrayed in overly dramatic series and movies. Of course this is a stereotype of the channel’s content but it is a general understanding among audience members. When I watched the premier of the 6^th season my worries were confirmed, as the focus seemed to shift from the innovative designs to the dramatic personalities on the show. Since then I have stopped watching the show all together, I was never one for much television anyway.

Last March Nancy Dubuc took on Lifetime Television with plans to revamp its image. I attended a lecture hosted by Dubuc last week at Drexel University’s College of Media Arts and Design. Beyond being extremely accomplished and hardworking, Dubuc seemed very down-to-earth and personable. She discussed her work as the president of the History Channel where she has successfully managed to broaden the audience without sacrificing the interest of her original viewers. Shows like Ice Road Truckers and Pawn Stars have appealed to younger viewers and made them excited about history, which was her main goal all along. During the lecture Dubuc explained how her focus for the History Channel was to make it entertaining, because after all, television is about entertainment.

As for Lifetime Television, Dubuc wants to create a channel that empowers women. She hopes to create a channel where female protagonists act based on their own motivations rather than the dictations of men. Her solution is so obvious and yet not previously addressed. Of all channels, Lifetime which serves as the “women’s channel”, should of course promote female power and self-worth. Why would women want to watch them selves constantly behave as victims? To sum up her plans Dubuc showed the new promotion for Project Runway, which exudes sex appeal. Her ambitious plans mean exciting changes for women in television, and perhaps a revival of my addiction to Project Runway.

“I Love My Hair!”

We all know about the children’s television show Sesame Street and its unique way of teaching kids different lessons. From ABCs to 123s, Sesame Street is the program many children learn from on a daily basis. Recently one of the writers for the show decided to write a song that would teach young African American girls about self-acceptance. The song is titled: “I Love My Hair,” and its sung by a little brown muppet with an afro meant to represent a little African American girl.

Joey Mazzarino, head writer for Sesame Street, wrote the song for his 5-year-old daughter Segi. He and his wife adopted Segi from Ethopia when she was a baby. As she got older and started playing with Barbie dolls, Mazzarino noticed a change it in his daughter. She would frequently complain about her hair, saying that it was “too poofy” and that she wanted it to be long, straight, and blonde like her dolls. Mazzarino became worried, and initially thought it was just a problem that white parents of African American children have. However he soon realized that this was an issue for most children in the black community.

Mazzarino wanted to tell his daughter, as well as all young girls that their hair is beautiful just the way that it is and that they should love it. And so, “I Love My Hair” was born! It premiered on the October 4^th episode of Sesame Street and since then it has become a viral sensation. With over a quarter of a million views on Youtube, this little muppet girl has been the topic of many conversations. She starts off by singing, “Don’t need a trip to the beauty shop, cuz I love what I got on top. It’s pretty and its brown, and it’s right up there”. Throughout the song she talks about the many different ways she can style her hair and why she loves it so much. This message has caused an outpouring of responses from women all over. Many women in the black community have struggled to teach their daughters acceptance and even shared the same feelings as Segi did when they were young.

You can watch the video on line at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enpFde5rgmw.

Mazzarino says he’s happy to report that Segi loves the song -

And her hair.

As if watching the game wasn't stressful enough...

Watching the your favorite team play on Sunday has come a long way from beers and finger food. These days, Sunday looks more like a study hall with men, and women, on their computers checking their stats, switching players on/off the bench, and a bit of trash talking all around. The focus is no longer on your favorite team, it's on the individual players you've drafted. In a way these leagues force viewers to not only watch their team but every other team as well, opening viewers' eyes to the talent of other teams/players.

However, has the football spirit been broken? True football lovers stick to their team and their favorite players like glue. The problem comes when fans are cheering for both teams and even worse, certain players. For those of you yelling for Farve to throw the ball to Moss, then getting angry when someone else gets the catch, have you lost all faith in the TEAM? This is the problem with the fantasy world. The focus is on who's receiving, how many yards passed, and who scores the touchdown, not the fact that your team is getting points and winning the game.

Bring back the days when football revolved around the team, and their die-hard fans!

Salem Witches Still Exist

Walking through Salem, Mass. this time of year feels like you’ve been sucked into the movie Hocus Pocus, circa 1993. Cobblestone sidewalks filled with characters dressed as witches, pirates, and vampires is nothing out of the ordinary come October 1^st. For most people Halloween is merely a celebration on the last day of October, but in Salem the festivities are seemingly endless. Tourists and Halloween junkies from across the country take vacation throughout October to get a taste of the original witch city. Graveyard tours from the 1600’s, museum spectaculars, and haunted houses galore alongside food stands and psychic tables are small part of the festivities that occur daily in the downtown area. The best spooktacular souvenirs can be found in year-round shops that line the streets filled with magic artists and self-proclaimed witches. If you’re a television fanatic or history buff, the Bewitched monument resides in the main courtyard as well as various authentic witch trial monuments. Salem, Mass. continues to be the capital of all things haunted and one of the biggest Halloween attractions across the nation.

Here are some haunted happenings going on in the Philadelphia area throughout October.

Eastern State Penitentiary: Haunter Halloween Tours

For information: http://halloween.easternstate.org/halloween

Spirits of 76 Ghost Tours:

When: Throughout September, October and November


Where: Old City

Creamy Acres Farm Corn Maze


This six-acre NJ corn maze offers approximately three miles of trails. Open during the daytime on Saturdays in September and October, and Thursday through Saturday evenings in October.

Where: 448 Lincoln Mill Road
Mullica Hill, NJ 08062
856-223-1669

Lovers & Madmen Coffee is located on 40^th and Ludlow Street. Lovers & Madmen Coffee Lounge is a destination coffee shop featuring Counter Culture Coffee because of the social and environmental ethic responsibility that guides their company. They also serve many other gourmet products known for their respective standards for quality, environmental responsibility, and emphasis on local and organic ingredients. “Lovers & Madmen Coffee was opened with dual commitments – the first of which is to serve the best coffee & espresso, hands down. Our second commitment is to our community – to serving our community, and to seeing University City & West Philadelphia continue to thrive.”

I’ve had a great experience at this coffee shop. I discovered it one day when I was heading to the local Fresh Grocer to get some groceries. I can remember it was a rainy day and I was in need of some warmth and caffeine. Upon entering the coffee shop I was greeted with smiles, a soothing atmosphere, and great indie music that I love. Not to mention that the coffee itself was amazing, and on every beverage they make they create a heart out of foam on top. It was truly adorable and lifted my spirits. Lovers & Madmen is eco-friendly and cozy hidden gem of University City.

Daily Candy

After living in Philadelphia for 3 years I have come to the realization that I have not yet taken full advantage of everything the city has to offer. There are a number of events, restaurants, shops and entertainment venues to explore. While browsing the internet for these opportunities I stumbled upon a website called Daily Candy. It is a one-stop shop for fashion, beauty, culture, food and drink, home and garden, travel and gifts. In addition it can be specified to the Philadelphia area or any other major city. I had heard of the website once before but had not checked it out until now.

Each section of the website allows you to further narrow your search by selecting a category, by product, by neighborhood or by feature. The most recent featured article is called “Table for Two: 5 Best Places for a First Date”. It then lists and describes five different places each with a different mood or feel. The article suggest Franklin Fountain for ice cream, The Ranstead Room for cocktails, Chick’s Café and Wine Bar for a low key evening, Bistrot la Minette for a more romantic date and Tinto for a taste of a different culture. Following this is a link to yet another Daily Candy article stating: “Need more great date ideas? Check out our picks for this month’s nine must see films. After navigating through the rest of the website I realized how abundant it is with great tips on where to go in Philly. Next time I am looking for an adventure in the city I know the first place I will look, and maybe even this weekend!

The Gap Controversy

VS

Last week Gap decided without warning to change the logo on their website. Naturally, fans were not too happy with this decision as they did not understand the reason or cause for such change. Tony Spaeth, president of Identityworks, a consulting firm in Rye, N.Y. said, “The company got itself into a jam by putting out the new logo without explaining the change.” Someone had the 'brilliant' idea to change the logo so that it would coincide with Gap's new image. However, after the almost instant backlash Gap decided that this idea wasn't so brilliant after all, and decided to change the logo back to its original design.
My question however, is would fans really have been less outraged if Gap had explained the change to them beforehand? I for one am attached to certain logos for particular brands, and even though Gap is not one of them, I understand customer concern. One fan responded to the change back to the original logo by saying, "Thanks for listening. The blue box logo is truly classic. We love it as it is." For that reason alone I think that changing the logo would upset many long time fans of the brand.
Take also for example when Tropicana decided to change their logo last year in February. They wanted to go with a new clean look to emphasize the all-natural, fresh squeezed juice. Many loyal Tropicana fans were upset by the brand's redesigned logo - including myself! It featured a glass of orange juice against a white backdrop, instead of the familiar orange with a straw poking out the side. I for one thought that it lost its desirability. There was something about the image of that straw in the orange with the bit of juice dripping down that just made me go "mmm". When the logo changed I was not only confused, but I didn't have the same desire to buy the brand.

Jersey Shore Addiction

Love it or hate it, there is absolutely no denying that a certain recent MTV reality show has swept the nation – and Drexel’s campus. With “T-shirt time” and “GTL” as regular facebook status updates, poofs suddenly becoming a normal hair style and “grenade” being used as the new insult– no one can really explain why everyone is obsessed with Jersey Shore, they just are. I sat down with Phil Nolan, a senior film major who recently co-oped at MTV Studios in New York, who cleared up a few common assumptions about everyone’s new guilty pleasure.

1. The whole world is not as obsessed with Jersey Shore as we are – yet.
“Jersey Shore is still on the burner for a lot of countries, it is just reaching Japan now, for example. Japan generally takes American culture even more seriously than we do, so I would expect to see Japanese 'guidos' running around in less than a year.”

2. We’re not sick of them yet, and surprisingly neither is Phil.
“There were plenty of other shows for me to get sick of, such as The Hills. I had to do web content for the Hills, which meant watching entire episodes. It was dreadful.”

3. Hey, we’re not the only ones.
“It was a huge talking point around the office. I didn't think these people cared about it. I think it was brilliantly done, but everything that circulated about it was mostly rumor and here say. Everyone assumes its "Scripted Reality".”

4. There is a simple explanation to our obsession.
“It's just the right people tossed into the right room. You start off laughing then you realize that you have genuinely decent people in the house. Suddenly there's almost a plot.”

5. Surprisingly, fame really hasn’t changed the Situation.
“He was always a celebrity in his own head, so no he hasn't and can't change.”

Jersey Shore airs Thursdays at 10 pm on MTV.

Image credit: www.mtv.com

Somethin Pumpkin

With the leaves changing and the temperatures dropping I find myself having pumpkin fever and I know I’m not the only one. It seems like as soon as October comes around the flavor of pumpkin can be found at all of my favorite spots. Whether it’s a squirt of pumpkin syrup in my coffee or a pumpkin brew at my favorite bar, the taste is the perfect cozy addition to my fall routine.
When it comes to pumpkin coffees and teas I have a few favorites. The pumpkin spice tea from Green Line Café on 37th and Lancaster is perfect for tea drinkers who want the option of a warm pumpkin beverage that isn’t coffee. I enjoyed a large on my way to work on a crisp Friday morning. Plus the added benefit of this tea is that it is a fair trade product. Another seasonal beverage favorite is the pumpkin coffee at Dunkin Donuts. This drink is good for coffee drinkers who only want a little bit of pumpkin flavor without it being overwhelming. Dunkin also has a pumpkin latte for people with a little more of pumpkin hankering and If you are really feeling the flavor you can pair your beverage with a pumpkin doughnut or muffin. An added bonus of the Dunkin coffees and treats is the cheap price. The closest Dunkin to campus is on 34th and Walnut.
Savas on 35th and Lancaster is jumping on the Pumpkin bandwagon with their offerings of pumpkin beer. I picked up a “Pick a Pumpkin” beer guide brochure on their counter and got some great ideas. As someone who never had a pumpkin beer until a couple weeks ago I can tell you it’s a pleasant treat. My favorite is the Elysian Night Owl Pumpkin Ale which has the essence of a pumpkin pie but is still a pale ale so it isn’t too rich.
Another pumpkin treat close to campus is the pumpkin pie frozen yogurt at Kiwi on 36th and Chestnut. Kiwi offers a big spread off toppings to choose from. I topped my pumpkin pie yogurt with pieces of cheesecake, graham cracker crumbles, and chocolate sauce. It was a great treat on a warmer fall day and satisfied my current pumpkin obsession.

It's Movie Time In Philadelphia

October 14^th marks the beginning of the Philadelphia Film Society’s 19^th annual Philadelphia Film Festival. This year’s 10 day event will feature an impressive lineup of roughly 107 films from over 30 countries around the world. In addition to feature films, the festival includes VIP receptions and events as well as interesting panels with notable industry professionals. For a full list of events, screenings, reviews, and synopsizes visit filmadelphia.org.

Philadelphia movie lovers prepare to be thoroughly occupied from festival’s beginning to end. The festival opens with Darren Aronofsky's highly anticipated film, “Black Swan,” staring Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, and Winona Ryder. Over 200 screenings follow opening night, and this year packing in more viewings around the festival’s six separate venues is easier than ever. The festival has implemented B-Side’s “Festival Genius” technology which works to help filmmakers connect to their audiences. Some highlights of the technology include: adding films to a personal calendar, ticket purchasing, reviews, festival updates, and personal calendar/favorites sharing capabilities. All of this can be done from the Philadelphia Film Festival’s website, or also, by downloading, and using, the B-Side app to one’s Smartphone.

On October 24^th, the festival culminates with concluding festivities. Awards will be given for the Documentary Feature, Narrative Feature, and Filmadelphia Feature competitions. Also, a prize in honor of the Philadelphia film scene’s leading heavyweight, Archie Perlumutter, is awarded yearly to the best film by a first-time director. There are plenty of eligible candidates this year. If you are just going to see a few, why not pick a film up for an award. After the awards ceremony, a final screening of Danny Boyle’s, “127 Hours,” starring James Franco will take place at Prince Music Theater. A celebration including local music and fun will end it all at Sigma Sound Studios.

Figure 1 Danny Boyle’s, “127 Hours,” starring James Franco

Figure 2 Prince Music Theater

Figure 3 Darren Aronofsky's, “Black Swan,” staring Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, and Winona Ryder

Designing for Healthy Feet

After returning from a 6-mile walk around Old City to check out the Design Philadelphia Window Competition, my intention to focus on the displays had been completely diverted by an ache pulsating from my feet. I took on this endeavor wearing a pair of boat shoes, which I will admit, were not the most intelligent choice. My boat shoes have no arch support, no tread, and to make matters worse, I wore them sockless. Other than kicking the battered leather shoes off and sitting down, I did nothing to actually tend to my throbbing body. Lets face it; we regularly put our feet through the wringer and never give them much attention afterward.

The human foot is a complex organization of 33 joints, 26 bones, 20 muscles, and hundreds of ligaments and tendons all with the single goal to support us. Despite this we are constantly abusing our feet; cramming them into high heels, flats, sandals, boots and other pretty but painful contraptions. Even the tennis shoe is a culprit in the physical abuse of our feet. A study done in 2009 found that running in tennis shoes can be 16% more likely to cause damage than walking in high heels (D. Casey Kerrigan et al.). Dr. Daniel Lieberman from Harvard University explained in an article for the Daily Mail, “A lot of foot and knee injuries currently plaguing us are caused by people running with shoes that actually make our feet weak” (Christopher McDougall). Basically, the assets we favor in tennis shoes like supportive linings and foam or gel cushioning actually hinder our feet and can cause long-range damage. It turns out the pain from my 6 mile excursion was not induced by the lack of support in my boat shoes but from the excessive support of my tennis shoes.

To address this issue, Vibram, a rubber sole company has developed a line of athletic shoes called FiveFingers. The shoes look like pair of toe socks that have been reinforced by a rubber sole. The shape allows for the most natural weight transition and movement when exercising. As a result, the shoes encourage stronger and healthier feet. Similarly, the ever-popular Shape Ups by Sketchers and FitFlops have been advertised to strengthen and tone legs. Both styles have reconstructed the sole and lining of the shoes to increase muscle engagement when walking. However, these shoes appear to do the opposite of the FiveFinger style because they encourage an unnatural foot movement to increase strength. I cannot help but question whether the Shape Ups and FitFlops are in fact healthy options for our feet.

Biba Brings Class to the Univeristy Set

A different kind of class has come to University City in the form of Biba, the latest wine-beer-cheese restaurant from the team behind Tria. Jon Myerow opened his new venue, located in the Left Bank building at 3131 Walnut Street, on Friday October 8. The eatery promises a relaxed atmosphere mixing an environmental sensibility with an eye for modern design. The reclaimed wood bar hails from a 100-year-old water tower and sits beside a sleek glass-enclosed wine cellar. There is currently indoor seating for 32 between the bar, communal table and drink rail. Front opening windows and an outdoor deck are said to be in the works.

Biba's aim is to educate students on the beauty of basics, no entertainment or wifi to distract from the carefully considered menu. Twenty-six wines are offered by the glass and will be consistently priced at under $10. Ten beers, nine bottled and one on cask are served at room temperature with little or no carbon dioxide pressure. A dozen cheeses and a selection of charcuterie and chocolate make for the perfect after-school snack. The experience is simple and straightforward: good wine, good food and good conversation, whether with the well-read bartender or your closest friends.

Hours are 4 pm to midnight Sunday through Thursday and 4 pm until 1 am Friday and Saturday.

Fashion Show 2010 "Pre-Selection"

For Drexel's Fashion show, deciding which clothes make it to the runway is a challenging process. We hold a two-day evaluation event called pre-selection in which a panel of professors view students' collections as a whole. The garments must be as close to finished as possible by the time pre-selection rolls around (which is a little more than a month before the actual show).

The garments, just as during model selection received a Yes, No or Maybe. Maybe's and Yes's got numbers to help us create the order of the show.

The D&M fashion show crew was in charge of orchestrating the event for the designers. We dressed mannequins, catalogued the garments and made sure the day ran smoothly and that everyone remained calm during what could be a stressful time.

Here is an exclusive sneak peak at some of what you might see in the show!

Fashion Show Model "Go-See's"

The International Modeling Guide defines a "Go-See" as "simply an appointment arranged by the model (or agency). It is an opportunity for the model to interview with [potential] clients."

Drexel Fashion 2010 held its own go-see in the Main Building earlier this month.

The D&M Fashion show team watched men and women from various agencies including Reinhard, MMA, Expressions and Wilhelmina. The models were asked to show us their "walk." Many brought along look books with head-shots and other photos so that we could get a better idea of their overall style.

We weren't looking for any specific type of person, as we had not seen the clothes that would be shown yet. The models we chose heavily depend on the look of the clothes that are being shown. If there are a lot of "girl next door" models and the clothes end up being very futuristic looking, there would be a disconnect in the show.

Male models generally needed to be on the slimmer side, as men who are too "bulked up" often can't fit into garments created for the show.

We gave all of our attendees a Yes, No or a Maybe.

Those who are a Yes were chosen for their strong walk across the stage and their amiable personality.

Final decisions still have not been made.

Take a look at some of our possible models as well as a few D&M's checking out the look books.

Project Runway Finalist Althea Harper at Drexel

Project Runway Season 6 finalist Althea Harper paid a visit to Drexel this week both to give a lecture and lead mini student critiques. Work was presented both from the Fashion Design department and from Design & Merchandising.

Fashion Design students presented their garments for Althea's feedback, and D&M students presented business concepts created while working in conjunction with students in Hong Kong.

Student presenters include Rachel Drummond, Kocayne Givner and Gabrielle Joffie from Fashion Design, and Thomas McCarthy, Caroline Savitt, and Jesse Ligo from D&M.

It's Baseball Season

The other day I noticed some statues of the Philly Phanatic dressed up in different outfits. The statues were about six feet tall and all painted to look different. As soon as I saw one of them I had to see them all. There are 20 of them around Philadelphia, all made by local artists, and they will be auctioned off by the Phillies at the end of the season. If anyone is a huge Phillies fan, or even wants something fun to do on a nice spring day, I suggest finding all of the Phanatics. If you don't want to just walk around the city all day here's a cheat list of places to find them:

African American Museum

Betsy Ross House

Citizens Bank

Citizens Band Park

Franklin Institute

Franklin Square

Independence Seaport Museum at Penn's Landing

Independence Visitor Center

John F. Kenned Plaza/LOVE Park

Lloyd Hall

Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts

National Constitution Center

Philadelphia Free Library

Philadelphia International Airport

Philadelphia Zoo

Please Touch Museum

Rittenhouse Square

The Market at Comcast Center

Thomas Paine Plaza at City Hall

They are all awesome, the one at the Please Touch Museum is dressed like the Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland!!!

Go Phillies!!!

Liberty of London for Target

This week, Target stores across the nation opened up the latest in their series of guest brand designers. Target has participated with many of these limited edition guest designers in the past. However, very few of these designers have extended their lines beyond apparel. Liberty of London for Target designs do not stop with apparel, accessories, shoes, sleepwear, and swimwear collections. With additional categories in dining, bedding, home decor, storage and organization, furniture, lawn and garden, and even a collection of bicycles, Liberty of London's bright signature prints stand out throughout the entire store.

Throughout the store advertisements hang above any of the shelves or racks that display the limited edition Liberty of London for Target merchandise. These bright advertisements, many in the signature prints, quickly draw in the attention of shoppers throughout the store. As each of the advertisements within the store, on television, in magazines, or on the internet all repeatedly present the signature prints they are very cohesive in a highly effective manner.

With the beginning of Spring just around the corner the prints have come just in time for shoppers whether they are going through spring cleaning or they are looking for that perfect new sundress for spring break. All in all, the advertisements, merchandise, and bright playfulness of the signature prints are all working well for Liberty of London and Target, and stores are already beginning to sell out of these limited-edition items.

No "Ordinary Discourse"

Recently, I received as a gift from my mother a wonderful book of photos from my favorite photographer, Ralph Eugene Meatyard. Paging through this 300-plus page collection, fills me with inspiration and motivation to resume my stress-relieving hobby of taking photographs. Somewhere along the way this year, I got very distracted and lost my passion. Looking through this book and seeing what Meatyard (who was actually an optician) accomplished in his spare time reminded me why I took photos in the first place - for fun.

All photos by Ralph Eugene Meatyard.

Winter Blues

Winter's harsh, cold weather and short, gloomy days often have a negative affect on peoples' moods. Many people, myself included, suffer from a mild case of the winter blues and find themselves missing the summer sun. But I have discovered three ways to help beat these blues until the summer months return:

1. Get as much sunlight as possible. If it's 20 degrees but the sun is shining, it helps to go outside even for 15-20 minutes to take a walk. The sunlight will remind you of summer and immediately boost your mood!

2. Exercise! I know I never feel up to working out in the winter because of the cold weather, but exercising helps you feel healthier and generally in a better mood. It's a great way to keep spirits up during the winter months.

3. Be social. During the winter, I tend to want to stay stuck in my apartment under the covers. However, keeping in touch with friends and continuing to be social helps beat the blues, while having fun!

Lessons From the Devil

With the recent DVD release of the documentary The September Issue, millions of fashionista’s will get to experience what it takes to survive a day in the world of the holy grail of fashion, Vogue.

Director R.J. Cutler got an inside perspective of the life of Editor-in-Chief, Anna Wintour, as he filmed for 8 months along side her team. He was able to witness the creation of the 2007 September Issue, which everyone knows is the equivalent to The Bible in the fashion world. With all the hype surrounding this film, this particular edition became the single largest issue of a magazine that has ever been published.

Now the most important question- what is it like to shadow one of the world's most notorious fashion icons? Cutler reflects on his full-frontal experience and teaches us the lessons of management he learned from Anna herself.

Lesson 1: Keep Meetings Short

“In Anna's world, meetings often start a few minutes before they're scheduled. If you arrive five minutes late, chances are you'll have missed it entirely. It's not by accident that during the final scene of The September Issue, Anna Wintour is in her office alone, waiting for a meeting to begin, and we hear her voice call out, 'Is anyone coming to this run-through except for me?'"

Lesson 2: Trust Your Instincts

“It's quintessential Anna Wintour: knowing what she wants, making clear decisions and moving on. I once asked her about her creative process and she answered with some frustration. 'I can't explain it,' she said, 'I just do it.' To me it was all very telling -- here is someone who knows that her gut instincts have gotten her to where she is, so she listens to them, trusts them and isn't afraid to put them on the line.”

Lesson 3: Surround Yourself With Great Talent

“The lesson is clear -- Anna Wintour knows that you're only as good as the people who work for you, that bad leaders are threatened by strong team members, and that success comes from surrounding yourself with the most talented people you can find.”

And Finally,

Lesson 4: Don't Look Back

“If I had to choose a statement that summarizes Anna's management style, it might come from her own comment at the end of The September Issue, when she says, 'Fashion's not about looking back. It's always about looking forward.'"

So there you have it- Vogue's management philosophy. As Anna put it so bluntly, "Always move forward. Don't dwell on the past. Life is short and there's lots to get done."

NYC Fashion Week may be over but...

Plans for Drexel's Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design Fashion Show are just beginning. The show, set for Saturday, June 5th, will take place inside the corporate headquarters of Urban Outfitters at the Philadelphia Navy Yard for the second year in a row. Last week the D&M Fashion Show Production team visited the venue. Here is a sneak peak at the super cool space.

The show is the largest it's ever been with 42 fashion design students showing collections that feature evening wear, men’s and women’s wear, sportswear and swimwear, children’s wear, lingerie and more. Students presenting their collection compete for industry awards sponsored by Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Lily Pulitzer, Destination Maternity and Joan Shepp.

There will be two showings, one at 4 pm and another at 8 pm with a reception to follow the latter. Tickets go on sale on April 23rd and are $25 for the 4 PM show and $50 for the 8 PM show (which includes an exclusive gift bag and entrance to the reception that follows). They will be sold in Chapman Court in the lobby of Nesbitt Hall (33rd and Market Streets).

And if you just can't wait, view a video of last year's show here for a taste of what's to come.

Out of the Ordinary Coffee Shops

Recently, I went on a search for adorable coffee shops in Philadelphia. I wanted to dig deeper and find less-well-known shops where one can enjoy a cup while getting a different experience. My goal was to find cozy, cute, and delicious shops. I went on the hunt and came up with several places that fulfilled these desires.

The following are not in any specific order, but were totally lovely and worth sharing..

La Colombe
130 S. 19th Street
Located right off of Rittenhouse Square, this chic, Euro-like spot reminded me of a Parisian coffee shop. The service is great, and the place is always filled with a classy, trendy crowd. The prices are affordable, and the experience is always great. It is one of my favorites!
http://www.lacolombe.com/

Academia del Caffe
4 locations!
2400 Market Street (Inside Design Marketplace)
1616 Market Street
1039 Chestnut Street
1 South Penn Square
This small chain is spreading around the city fast! I have visited 2 of the 4 locations - both have a modern, European feel. They are quiet, cute, and perfect to go and enjoy your coffee for as long as you'd like!
http://academiadelcaffe.com/

Naked Chocolate Cafe
1317 Walnut Street
Good food, deserts, and coffee! Oh, and absolutely adorable..Naked Chocolate is such a perfect date spot as well as a cute spot for coffee/treats with friends. It is a boutique cafe right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city. Definitely stop by for a hot chocolate during the winter and don't forget a specialty cupcake on the side ;)
http://www.nakedchocolatecafe.com/


Bonte Coffee & Wafflerie
130 S. 17th Street
One of my favorites! Bonte is so so perfect. Bonte offers cafe-style snacks and sandwiches, coffee, and the BEST Belgian sugar waffles ever. When I go, I take my lap top to do homework and stay for as long as I desire.
http://www.mybonte.com/cafe-entry.php

Higher Grounds
631 N. 3rd Street
Lots of tea, espresso, and coffee. Free internet. This is a unique little coffee shop in Northern Liberties. I love this place because it is perfect for relaxing - the space is so peaceful and perfect to chill or get some work done in a quiet place.
http://www.highergroundscafe.com/

1 Shot Coffee
1040 N. 2nd Street
This cute cafe is ultra comfy with great couches and coffee. They have some neat coffees as well as sandwiches. It is located on Liberties Walk in Northern Liberties - a great place to walk around, shop, get dinner, and then coffee! 1 Shot has a great atmosphere and really cool, laid back people/employees. Definitely check it out if you're in the area.
http://1shotcoffee.com/

These are just a few of the cafes I enjoyed during my search. I will continue to journey around the city and see what else I can find - they are there, you just have to look past the ordinary.

Fashion Week Leaves Bryant Park

Since 1993, or since the current Drexel senior class was in the first grade, Bryant Park has been the home of New York Fashion Week. This past fashion week, which wrapped on Thursday February 18th with a show by Tommy Hilfiger, was the last time that New York Fashion Week will be held there.

Mayor Bloomberg and the CFDA have been searching for a new location for the show for the past two years. Fashion Week has grown from 35 shows to about 70 shows per season. Mayor Bloomberg says that the event has long outgrown the space in Bryant Park and Diane von Furstenberg, CFDA President, says that since they are starting fresh next season, they can do it big.

But the designers and fashion insiders don't seem too be happy about the move. Anna Sui says that what worked about Bryant Park was that her team could walk her clothes over to the venue. Bryant Park's proximity to the fashion district and many of the designers' showrooms made the venue easy.

Some of the fashion industry's leading editors are also only a walk away from Bryant Park, which is conveniently located across the street from the Conde Nast Building, which houses Vogue. The entrance of the tents at 41st and 6th Avenue is covered in quotes by designers and fashion insiders about how Bryant Park made New York fashion relevant in the fashion world. The quote above the door is from none other than Anna Wintour: "Bryant Park became the beacon of what New York fashion stands for - an industry that's tireless, fearless and always moving forward."

It's sad to say that now moving forward involves leaving behind the place that made American fashion week famous.

Love live Bryant Park.

Zac Posen set to be next Go-International designer for Target

Zac Posen’s designs can most often be seen worn on the youngest and hippest starlets on red carpets. But according to Women’s Wear Daily the next place that consumers can see his designs is in a very familiar place, the same store you can buy toothpaste and toilet paper – Target.

Posen is set to be the next designer for Target’s Go-International line, which has become a runaway hit with nearly every designer selling out almost immediately. The international line brings high end designers to a whole new market of customers – women who have dreamed of owning a piece of their runway collections and maybe even some who have never heard of said designer. Some of the past designers were Thakoon, Tracey Feith and most recently, Rodarte.

The Go-International collection will have pieces that run anywhere from $16.99 for a printed tank to $199.99 for a red leather jacket. If you were to shop for Posen's ready-to-wear collection on the other hand, it is available on Net-A-Porter.com. However, the cheapest thing on the menu is a jersey knit dress for $785 and prices climb up to $2,225 for a floor length gown, pictured at left from Net-A-Porter.com

Photo courtesy of Fashionista.com

For the college fashionista, there is no question which of Posen’s two lines fit in with a virtually nonexistent budget. The line for Target is “very Zac” and is full of color and bright prints. It is a great opportunity to stock up on some great summer dresses for an amazing price. And for $69.99 (the price of 2 weeks’ worth of venti lattes at Starbucks) any woman can have their very own floor length Zac Posen summer dress, pictured above.

This collaboration is no doubt going to be one to the top sellers. Merchandise hits stores April 25^th and is scheduled to sell until May 30^th, but don’t be surprised if there isn’t much left on April 30^th!

Resolution's Resolved!

It's that time again. I mean about a month into the New Year. You rang it in with all the best intentions and resolutions about how you were going to make 2010 better than the last. According to USA.gov's list of the TOP New Year's Resolutions, you resolved to:

Drink Less Alcohol

Get a Better Education

Get a Better Job

Get Fit

Lose Weight

Manage Debt

Quit Smoking Now

Reduce Stress at Work

Reduce Stress Overall

Save Money

Take a Trip

Volunteer to Help Others

But here you are, near the end of January, almost 1/12th of the way to 2011 and nothing's changed! You’ve already racked up 2 overdraft charges to your bank account, you’re so stressed that you started biting your nails and that trip… does a TransPass does not count?

No, it does not.

Well what the heck? What’s holding you back? The only answer to that is yourself. Instead of making a lengthy list of resolutions swearing to change your life in one year or less, why not resolve to change all the

“I can'ts” into “Why not’s?!"

With that, you will then dive head first into whatever seems to be getting you down. Bank account looking dim? Not “I can’t” change that. Instead “Why not” clean out your closet and sell what you no longer want to a second hand store? This could kill two birds with one stone. How about stress? “Why not” join a yoga class, bust that stress and get in shape at the same time? Quit smoking? “Why not” drink less alcohol and thus, smoke less. Another two-for-one.

All I’m sayin’ is don’t make resolutions that you know you won’t keep. Break down the issues and realize why they are causing problems in your life. Smaller steps will make making that change seem like less ominous a task. Here’s to a transformation, a better you!

Good luck and don’t sweat the small stuff!