D + M Magazine

Something Old, Someone’s New

2012-03-04T05:51:00.004-08:00

By Emily Raduzycki

Clothing from mainstream retailers is becoming rather dull and repetitive, wouldn’t you agree? Sure, we can still find pieces in our favorite hot spots but it's rare that we hear someone say “wow” anymore when out shopping. Where to turn? Vintage.

The Urban brands have led the way in vintage retailing, often upping the price to match the one-of-a-kind nature (see photo). Their vintage pieces are less focused on a particular brand or designer name but the retro style. The dresses are primarily sourced from SOR Select, the label of Some Old Rubies, which reworks and sources vintage pieces. Each of the pieces is an original and available in a limited size.

I prefer, however, the classic pursuit in second-hand shops. Philadelphia has many options to fit the college budget. Philly AIDS Thrift or PAT, has three floors of merchandise ranging from items to furnish your apartment, to books and old magazines, to clothing. Thrift shops such as PAT also serve as a non-profit, donating their proceeds to the AIDS Fund with volunteers as the employees.

My best advice when it comes to buying previously owned clothing is to go to places in or near an affluent community. You will be more likely to come across a more valuable treasure in great condition because the donors or consigners tend to circulate their wardrobes more often. My purchases are from a mixture of Philadelphia, New Jersey and London stores and include a Christian Dior blazer purchased for $10, a Robert Rodriguez top for $30, and many purchases under $5.

If you’re visiting London any time soon, check out my ratings on the list of second-hand shops that I visited.

Get Inspired by Madness: "Van Gogh Up Close" at the Philadelphia Museum of Art

2012-03-04T05:39:00.002-08:00

By Barbara Hionides

He was addicted to absinthe, ate lead and paint, vigorously mumbled to himself, cut off his ear in the name of a broken heart, and most importantly created timeless masterpieces. Van Gogh. He was a genius of his time, even if no one saw it until years later. He created art works that were soon to be highly respected in the art world, bringing a new light to perspective, psychological fears, and depiction of light in art. They say that true creativity is born from madness, and in this case it is evident.

The Dutch post-impressionist painter had created over 2,100 works in his short 37 years of life, before he committed suicide. He started painting and drawing from an early age, highly involved in building his skill set as an artist. He soon found himself working for art dealers, later wanting to become a pastor, and finally deciding to stick to art when in 1886 he moved to Paris. When studying the impressionist style, one can note small colorful brushstrokes, a great emphasis on expressing light, depiction of realistic subject matter in an unconventional abstract way, and the movement of objects expressed through color and brush strokes. Van Gogh did just that. His style changed once he had discovered this new method of expression through painting. He emphasized colors, light and objects’ angles to create an accurate depiction of how he, having a mental illness, saw his subject matter emotionally and psychologically.

Fortunately for Van Gogh Up Close, a traveling exhibition of his most notable, unusual paintings done at the time of his mental turmoil’s peak, we can view these works in Philadelphia. The exhibition opened on February 1^st and will end on May 6^th at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Be sure to visit Van Gogh’s legendary works such as “Rain,” which is a depiction of his window while staying at the Clinique of San Paul after several mental breakdowns. Other works such as “Almond Blossom,” “Garden in Auvers” and many more show the true genius use of color, shadows and lines Van Gogh created through this works. The emotional and psychological impact his paintings unleash, reveal how art can truly inspire and allow for us to see the world through the artists's eyes.

"Rain", France, 1889.

http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2012/02/03/arts/design/20120203-VANGOGH-9.html

http://www.philamuseum.org/exhibitions/743.html

Color, Color, and more Color!

2012-03-04T05:11:00.006-08:00

By Anastasia Athineos

Being bold and bright doesn’t have to be just forcelebrities. Anyone can rock a variety of fun colored denim to add a new flareto their wardrobe for a fresh and new look this season. Colored denim is agreat way to show off your personality in a fashionable yet casual way. Celebritieshave been giving this trend mainstream attention with their color blocking styleby dressing up or down their outfits. What’s great about this trend is that itisn’t gender specific. Celebrities such as Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, and evenJustin Bieber have all been spotted sporting the current trend.

This trend is one that takes some getting used to becausenot every color is going to look good on everyone’s skin tone. In order to make this style look best you are better off pairingyour colored denim with a simple neutral toned top or jacket. I find thatwearing white, black, or gray tee shirts are the safest and most visuallypleasing routes to take. By wearing a simple neutral tone, the color from thedenim is able to pop and stand out without the outfit looking too loud. Coloreddenim cries out for fun accessories and shoes. The style of the accessories and shoes can take the simple denim outfitfrom trendy and flirty to laid back and carefree in a matter of minutes.

So experiment and let your mood and personality shinethrough your wardrobe! If you are feeling happy, wear something bright. And ifyou’re feeling a little blue, well cobalt looks great on everyone! No matteryour mood, one thing is for certain - you can always feel confident stomping downthe sidewalk in your bold, look-at-me pants and effortless style.

Once Wed

2012-02-21T06:01:00.000-08:00

Everyone thinks about it…

That glorious day when love and all things beautiful meet.

From the venue to the flowers, the invitations and dress – a wedding showcases your taste and design aesthetic. Tucked away in a shoebox under the bed or in an ambiguous folder on your Macbook are pages ripped out of magazines and images downloaded from the web.

We’re not crazy. It’s just premature planning, ya know?

Once Wed is a website that finally recognizes and facilitates our obsession.

Launched in 2008, Once Wed is a daily blog that archives notable weddings, supplies fresh ideas and DIY projects, provides vendor contact information and offers an outlet for the solicitation of used dresses.

Until that moment comes we can fixate on other's. And when the day does arrive… you’ll be ready.

Woody's Bar and Restaurant

2012-01-29T08:36:00.000-08:00

By Patrick Bartscherer

Known around the city as Philly’s “Gay Mecca” club, Woody’sBar and Restaurant has served the LGBT community since it opened in 1980.Located in what is known as Philadelphia’s “Gayborhood,” the nightclub attractsmen and women of all ages with their themed nights such as college night onWednesdays, which appeals to the underage crowd, as well as line dancing nightwhere everyone can feel like a cowboy (or cowgirl!). Woody’s has made severaltransformations and renovations since the opening, but a recent total overhaulhas brought Woody’s to a higher standard.

The first major change in Woody’s appearance is the firstfloor lounge that the owners aptly call the “The Pub.” Originally, thedownstairs portion of Woody’s consisted of two dimly lit rooms with old carpetingthat attracted an older more “experienced” crowd. A dingy bar countertopcircled around the original beer taps that leaked more beer then they served.Now, over 32 draft beers are on tap from Irish microbreweries to nationalfavorites; the Pub has something for everyone. Floor to ceiling windows spanthe wall facing the street and bright LED TVs wrap around the enormous bar andyoung bartenders serve up pint-sized cocktails to a trendier city going crowd.

"The Pub" - Photo courtesy of Woody's

Woody’s has also stepped up their game when it comes totheir nightclub located on the second floor. Modeled after top New York Cityclubs, the owners have revamped their sound and lighting system in order toattract a consistently larger crowd. A visual equalizer lines the walls and lightsup the massive hardwood dance floor. The bars have been replaced with elegantgranite countertops and CO2 fog cannons keep dancers cool throughout the night.

The Club - Photo courtesy of Woody's

From a worn down tavern to a two-story mega nightclub,Woody’s Bar and Restaurant has become a must for any Philadelphia residentlooking to forget about the busy workweek and let off some steam dancing thenight away. Their long list of tasty beers will impress even the snobbiest ofbeer connoisseurs, and the new dance floor area has enough pizzazz to keepvisitors coming back for more. More information on Woody’s events can be foundon their website at woodysbar.com.

TOMS - how much is too much?

2012-01-29T08:30:00.000-08:00

I had to reevaluate my opinion of TOMS shoes recently, when the catalog came in the mail. It was that feeling a hipster gets when their favorite indie band hits the top of the Billbaord charts – or so I imagine.

From apparel, to youth footwear, a glitter and corduroy line …even eyewear?

You’re killin’ me TOMS.

I get it, I get it – one for one.

But the whole “We give sight for every sunglass purchase” angle is pushing it, and the endless promotional emails are forcing me to resent them almost as much as Groupon.

Thus, I am forced to pose the question – How much is too much?

When a company experiences success, should they continue to expand product lines and assortment, saturating the market and hitting the consumer over the head with what made them big? Or should they maintain their business model, allowing for gradual increase in profits, rather than peaks and valleys? After experiencing success, it is difficult for anyone to restrain a concept instead of running with it. However, in the case of TOMS, the latter option might have been desirable. The “One For One” driven company has lost their exclusivity and are devaluing their product. That is, in my eyes anyway.

After seeing TOMS tees and babies in pink glittery cordones on the streets almost daily, my interest is dwindling.

What do you think?

Stylitics: Virtual Wardrobe and Style Assistant

2012-01-29T08:24:00.000-08:00

By Christy Lucca

Stylitics.com is an up-and-coming website that coins itself as “your own personal style assistant that makes being stylish easier than ever.” Thousands of fashionistas have been testing out this new style platform, which launched late last year. Stylitics offers a way for its users to view their wardrobe virtually while incorporating personal style trends, outfit history, and connections to popular brands.

The website serves to facilitate a smarter way for people to make decisions about their wardrobe. Users can input every item in their wardrobes and update them according to what they buy and wear each day. For each item, Stylitics will show the last time you wore it and other items you wear most with it. It keeps track of how much you spend on your wardrobe, so you can make smarter buys. It also sends alerts according to trends in your area and new ways to wear items in your wardrobe.

One of our own Design and Merchandising students at Drexel, Caitlin Stelben, is a campus representative for the company. She believes that, “It’s beneficial to students because they receive feedback about what they wear, allowing them to make smarter purchase choices in the future.”

Stylitics is the first website of its kind and revolutionizes the way people think about their own style. One of its biggest perks is the rewards and incentives from brands the more you use the website. After its launch, Stylitics will continue to grow and could potentially become the next biggest “trend.”

Visit the following websites for more information: http://www.stylitics.com/

http://www.facebook.com/Stylitics

http://stylitics.tumblr.com/

Can you see us now?

2012-01-29T08:10:00.000-08:00

SOPA

By: Candice Watts

For as long as people have been freely surfing the worldwide web, there have been arguments over copyright infringement and financial loses.

SOPA or the Stop Online Priacy Act is a bill introduced on October 26th, 2011. The bill was proposed by Texas Republican Lamar S. Smith, to expand the ability of U.S. law enforcement to fight online trafficking in copyrighted intellectual property and counterfeit goods. In other words, SOPA would make it possible for companies to block the domain names of web sites that are simply capable of, or seem to encourage copyright infringement. The bill, if made into a law, would also allow rights holders to cut off the source of funding of any potentially infringing web site. This means if a website has a tool that provides users to post information, such as YouTube.com or Tumblr.com, and the posted information exhibits copyright infringement, any other companies doing business with this site would have to stop, including search engines and advertising companies.

On Wednesday, January 18th, there was the largest online protest in history, when Google.com got over seven million people to sign petitions against the bill. Other websites such as Wikipedia.com and its British partner Reddit.com organized an Internet ‘black-out’ which cut off their services for a day and replaced them with a link to contact your local senator.

After a heated protest, Senator Smith decided to postpone endeavors to draft the bill. This was seen as a “win” for the Internet and the 7 million people that protested against one of what could have been the worst move on the government's part.

There Can Never be Enough Color on Your Wrists

2012-01-28T06:16:00.000-08:00

By Tatiana Beckman

Mywrists are never naked. Over the winter break I did some holiday shopping for myselfand family and no matter where I went I was always distracted by bracelets. I love finding bracelets with pops of color and uniquestyles. When we find something unique, many of us say, “Oh, I canmake that!” and walk away from the usually over-priced piece of jewelry.Although I have given in on a few things myself, I also stuck to my word andmade some bracelets of my own. I bought string, links and clasps from AC Mooreand searched for a little inspiration. I love the idea of mixing materialsbecause it adds fun and sophistication into one accessory. You can wear all the pieces at once or layer them with a charm bracelet and watch. There is nothing boringabout layering bracelets, rings or any jewelery, and every piece you buy andstylize will be unique. Just remember when you say you can make it, youreally can, so stop spending $20 on friendship bracelets when a pack ofstring costs $4.

Pin·ter·est·ing [Pin-ter-uh-sting, -truh-sting, -tuh-res-ting]

2012-01-28T06:06:00.000-08:00

By Mary Dalton

Pinterest - Verb:

Engaging or exciting and holding the attention or curiosity of users across the globe

2 Also, a great way to procrastinate besides Facebook.

It will only be a matter of time before Webster's Dictionary acknowledges “pinteresting” as a verb. It may be hard to believe, but recall the shock when “bling bling” was added to the dictionary. I know that “pinteresting” has become a key form of distraction for many Design and Merchandising students.

But is it really a bad distraction? Pinterest is a virtual creative space that allows its users to express themselves and their interests - primarily through collections of images. Through the exchange of ideas and tips, it connects users with common interests all over the world. Students working on group projects are collecting their ideas in Pinterest (and then maybe spending just a little time browsing).

With Pinterest’s ever-changing pin boards it is no wonder why browsing this site is so addicting. Whether you create your own boards or just like to browse the site there is something for everyone. Ben Silbermann, co-founder of Pinterest, said that he “believes Pinterest fills a need on the Internet for people to express themselves. You don’t have to be witty, or a good photographer, or a good writer to use Pinterest, you just have to pin your interests to an online pinboard.”

It is hard to believe that this website has been up and running for two years now. The craze really started to take off only a few months ago. It was recently named one of the top 10 social media sites by Hitwise with 11 million views per week.

Best Pictures of 2011 (No Relation or Association to the Oscars)

2012-01-28T05:43:00.000-08:00

Nominations for the Oscars have finally be announced today. With that, I have thirty-three days to see nine of the ten films that are up for Best Picture this year. As I tried to predict which films would make the cut into the category, I saw many movies this year, hoping that it would decrease the stress of the next month of constant film screening. Needless to say, I guessed the films incorrectly, and I sit with the challenge of nine films in thirty-three days.

Several of the films that I consider to be the best of 2011 unfortunately won’t be recognized as such. Because of that, I have created the the Best Picture award as voted by a committee consisting of myself. The nominees do not receive anything for being mentioned in this blog, sadly. With that, here are the nominees for the Robert Reynolds “Best Picture” Award:

The Descendants / Alexander Payne

This is the one film on my list that also exists on the official Oscars list. Staring George Clooney as a man whose wife slips into a coma after a boating accident, he must deal with the troubled times of his family, while also amidst the selling of a huge amount of property he owns. This only gets troubled further when his older daughter tells him that his wife had been cheating on him prior to falling into the coma. With the scenery on the beautiful islands of Hawaii, we realize that family issues exist even in the most paradise-like places. An amazing cast with a beautiful, simple, and true story lays the groundwork for one of the best films of the year. (It also doesn’t hurt that 50-year-old Clooney is looking better than ever.)

Like Crazy / Drake Doremus

Like Crazy, like The Descendants, is beautiful, simple, and comes across as pure and true. While on a semester abroad, British beauty, Anna, falls for an American boy, Jacob. Her visa expires, but infatuated with her relationship, she stays in California. They have a quirky, cute relationship that makes you smile while sitting in the dark by yourself. She returns home to the United Kingdom to see her family, and once trying to reenter the US to see Jacob, she is informed that she isn’t allowed back into the country because of her offense of overstaying her visa. The movie shows their struggles of wanting to be together, actually being together, wanting to be apart, and being forced to be apart. The film is beautifully shot and has an amazing soundtrack to accompany the scenes.

Bridesmaids / Paul Feig

Simply stated: one of the funniest films I have ever seen. I’ve seen this one in the range of twenty to thirty times since it came out. With a basic story of a group of bridesmaids’ adventures between engagement announcement to wedding day, the major success is in the writing and the cast. This movie is proof that girls can tell a fart joke, and even tell it more successfully than their male comedian counterparts. Every member of the cast delivers a different element to the group, and together create a riot to watch. This movie is one of those that you will end up quoting into your life more than you’d expect, as I find myself making a Bridesmaids reference almost daily now. While Kristin Wiig and Maya Rudolph are the leads and are both tremendously funny, Melissa McCarthy gives the most hilarious performance from a supporting actress in recent history.

Beginners / Mike Mills

Beginners gives proof that no matter how old we get, we can still be considered beginners in relationships. Ewan McGregor stars along side of the beautiful Mélanie Laurent in an unexpected relationship that is equally involving of his dog, Cosmo. Christopher Plummet, nominated for an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, plays McGregor’s father who comes out as gay in his seventies and spends his final years of life proudly and openly being gay while fighting cancer. Each time I’ve watched Beginners, it has managed to make me cry during both happy scenes and quite opposite scenes. Beginners is another film where the soundtrack in bang-up and completely sets the tone for the film.

Weekend / Andrew Haigh

I had previously reviewed Weekend for this blog a few months back, so if you’d like a complete review of it, go back a few pages to check that out. Weekend is an honest depiction of a gay relationship that lasts for, as the title suggests, a weekend. While the relationship is brief, it is sweet and true. They reveal things about themselves that often don’t come out until much later in relationships, and also manage to be extremely believable characters with many dimensions, which differs from the often one-sided gay characters that are displayed in films. Weekend is a much different variation on the traditional love story, but still comes off very charming and sweet.

Christian Dior Spring 2012 Couture

2012-01-24T10:45:00.001-08:00

The 2012 Spring Couture shows have arrived, and after a year of scandal, the Dior house seems to be regaining an even keel. After a rollercoaster of a collection presented during the Fall 2011 Couture show, John Galliano’s former right-hand man and current stand-in Bill Gaytten presented forty cohesive looks. The Spring 2012 Dior couture collection harkened back to the New Look. The color palette was simple, ranging from white to grey to black, with pops of red and deep purple. The first look out featured the wide lapels, nipped waist and full skirt characteristic of the New Look. A romantic embellished floral pattern danced along the see-through taffeta skirt, mixing the sweet nature of yesteryear with the bold and risqué element of modernity. The full-skirts gave way to the wrap jacket and pencil skirt that were also popular in the late 1940’s, and again, the see-through fabric gave the collection a modern twist. A luxe array of fabrics and textures also added to the rather traditional silhouettes. Sleek black alligator-skin jackets were paired with delicate skirts, as if to counterbalance the delicate pieces that preceded them. The beautifully constructed collection gave way to floor-length gowns that appeared to be variations of the first dresses in full bloom. Tight-fitting bodices exploded into huge, flared skirts that consumed the runway in ruffles and pleated tulle.

Gaytten’s nod to the original house of Dior coupled with the grandiose and artful notions that Galliano brought to the house in 1996 show that Galliano’s right-hand man might have what it takes to assume the position of creative director at the scandal-stricken company. With multiple collections being displayed after Galliano’s departure, it seems as though LVMH is unable to find the perfect replacement for the line. Perhaps this collection will solidify Gaytten’s place as the final contender for the position of creative director at Dior.

- Melanie

Philanthropy In The Industry

2012-01-24T07:42:00.000-08:00

Philanthropy. A word rarely associated with the fashionindustry or its partakers, but Tory Burch has proven otherwise. A native from Pennsylvania, she has become amodel business woman in her philanthropic approach to running her business andsupporting the lives of individuals who share her same dream.

Iwas surprised to hear that this amazing designer took the time to offerguidance and support to women across America, who are trying to start upbusinesses to provide for their families. Burch’s outlook is to give resources to exceptional individuals that don’thave access to it and teaching them about finances and skills to run abusiness. It is more about investing inthe hope of the American, rather than throwing out money to people that mightnot know how to use it or spend it. She iscreating job opportunities that are declining in a time of economic disarray.

Herefforts can be praised, as she is supporting a new generation, like myself, thatlooks for social responsibility and patronage in companies and corporations. But why wouldn’t you want to share yourknowledge and expertise? Wisdom is meantto be passed along, so that our world can mature and advance to bigger andbetter things. Like Burch, I don’t seeit as creating competition, but a way to reward others and yourself for yourpersonal achievements.

Restaurant Week: Is It Really a Good Deal?

2012-01-24T04:52:00.000-08:00

After staring at the intimidating list of restaurants over and over again, my family and I decided on a new restaurant to try for lunch. It was the first day of restaurant week and the new Jose Garces restaurant, Garces Trading Company, was booked! The atmosphere was chaotic yet fascinating, as people were crammed next to one another with servers running from table to table. The French-inspired restaurant, opened last February, was set up like a market, with a house-cured charcuterie, wine shop, and retail items such as coffee, olive oil and vinegars. The restaurant serves as a quick spot to grab lunch or a place to sit down and unwind with a nice glass of wine.

For restaurant week, lunch is $20 per person and for dinner it is $35 per person. Typically, lunch is three courses. My family decided that because portions would be smaller, we would all try different items on the menu and share. The goal was to leave full and satisfied. Among the different dishes we had mozzarella cheese, pasta fagioli, house antipasti, scallops, pan panelle, citron and winter verrine. At the end of each course, each of us found ourselves with a different plate sitting in front of us.

With five restaurants in Philadelphia, Jose Garces did not fail to live up to our expectations. Normally, a meal for the four of us would cost $75; in this case it was over $100 after we made some purchases at the market. At the end of lunch my dad, a first-timer on the Restaurant Week train, asked if it was worth the $20 deal. I thought to myself and came to the conclusion that although I would normally order one dish for under $20, I loved the fact that I could try a few different appetizers, entrees, and desserts. The entire experience was definitely worth it. All types of foodies can enjoy restaurants that they may not try if it weren't for Restaurant Week, (including college students who do not have a lot of money). The secret behind the Restaurant Week hype is that it seems cheap for three [mini] courses, or four for dinner, and people have a chance to say, "I ate at a great restaurant for a great price!"

NYFW cordially invites you...

2012-01-24T04:05:00.000-08:00

It's New York Fashion Week....show schedules are jam packed. How do you decide which shows to attend? I personally adore these cards as I think emails are a little overused nowadays. If I'm was VIP or a VVIP, I'd want to get an invite card in the mail. A handwritten one would be even more impressive.

-Best Athayu

15 minutes of critic fame.

2012-01-17T21:54:00.001-08:00

That golden time has come and gone and is now swimming aimlessly throughout the most searched topics on the web. From ‘sexy and sultry’ to ‘frumpy and what the hell were they seeing when they looked in the mirror,’ photos are flooding news feeds all over. Everything from celebs to even the bugs on the red carpet were being criticized for what they were wearing so I thought I’d say forget what the critics say and listen to what Amanda Rodriguez has to say. This is an article I’d like to call 15 minutes of critic fame where I’ll showcase the most fab and burn your eyes with the most drab.

STONE fox:
Emma Stone wore a breath-taking color blocked plum and raspberry Lanvin gown which complimented her pale milky skin wonderfully. Both the perfect mixture of edgy and elegant, with the dramatic eye and simple updo, this goofy clutz was nothing short of a fashion goddess.

Blue Ringer:

What do you get when you throw watercolors on a poorly draped table cloth? That’s right, Sarah Michelle Gellar’s dress. This dress was anything but flattering for this un-aging beaut. From hair to make-up I give this all thumbs down, but I do give thumbs up to her for wearing the dress her two-year-old daughter picked out. Sweet mother but there is a time to say no.

Recycling the Holidays!

2011-11-28T22:28:00.001-08:00

Number one on your list for Santa: an iPad, a Kindle, or maybe a Nook? Whatever tablet device is on your wish list, what will you do with all the clunky books that are soon to just be dust collectors on the shelf? Here’s a project that will put your favorite book to good use after you’ve downloaded it onto that future slim tablet. This simple step by step tutorial shows you how to make a unique holiday wreath that can be showcased year round.

Materials Needed:

-old book

-12 x 12” square cardboard

-scotch tape

-hot glue gun

-exacto knife

Start by taking your 12 x 12” square of cardboard and draw a vertical and horizontal line down the middle of the square. Draw lines across the diagonals of the square as well breaking the circle into 8 sections. Draw a circle to connect all the lines as an outline.
Cut out a 3” diameter circle with an exacto knife. This will serve as a base.

Cut the pages out of your book close to the binding with your exacto knife. If you don’t want to use a book you already have, check your local dollar store for a thick hard cover!

Roll each individual page into your cone shapes taping the end with a small piece of scotch tape to hold the shape. You are going to need a lot of cones so I recommend making a good amount to start off with.

Using a dab of hot glue, glue the points of eight cones to the eight points of the circle.

In each section, glue 3 more cones onto the base closer to the center hole of the base. Repeat around the entire base. This will complete your outermost layer of the wreath.

You can now move onto the second layer of the wreath. Draw a circle around the hole of your base to serve as the outline for your second layer. Glue cones around the outline you have just created. Repeat around entire circle.

The last layer will be your final layer. In order to make a clean center, fold about an 1 ½” of your cone through the hole of the base and to the back and glue. You will also need to glue a small dot of the open end of the cone to the previous layer for structure stability. Repeat around the whole circle.

In just eight easy steps you have created a beautiful holiday wreath! This can also be used as decoration year-round as a floral structure.

Enjoy! Happy Recycling!

2011-11-28T20:28:00.000-08:00

How to "Sell Out" In America

2011-11-28T16:00:00.001-08:00

Jillian Fragetti

Making a great connection to what we do as Design & Merchandising students at Drexel, HBO has produced a show based around the eager attempt to establish a clothing line in New York City. How To Make It In America just finishing off season number two, follows two young men who are trying to survive “making it” in the city and create a clothing line that sells. By the end of the second season they have found buyers so selling has finally become easy. The hard part was not selling out.

They created a brand. Crisp. They went with a streetwear edge that was to attract hip New Yorkers with style. With a lack of steady cash flow, they didn’t have a great business plan with steady money to put into the line until they met a millionaire friend to fund their whole project. Super unlikely to happen in real life, the men lucked out and continued on their venture. They were on their way but things were moving slowly. Rather than selling 800 pieces to a store, they sold 8. The men struggled every step of the way until they came across some buyers for a huge chain store, something like a Pac Sun. Selling Out: step 1. Once you sell to a chain you are selling to the mass public. You took away any hip exclusivity you were trying to portray, but what that does mean is the big bucks come rolling in. Then their manufacturer decided to alter their name from “Crisp” to “Crisp by Yosi” (adding the manufacturer’s name to gain credit) Selling Out: Step 2. Once you’ve let the big companies change parts of your company that went far in a different direction than you originally wanted, you have lost your brand to the man.

Lots of money and a name brand in a big chain store. Or, broke with your bag of t-shirts and original dream. This is a conflict anyone trying to make it in a city will come across (if your company is good enough). Creating a clothing line not only focuses on branding but reaching your target market with the right strategies. That can significantly change once you’re eating ramen noodles every night in a 2x4 apartment and a big $10,000 check gets put in your hand. Fortunately, the men backed out of the brand, changing contracts and they went back to square one with their dream intact. It won’t be easy but they might find a way to make it in America without selling out.

Design Philadelphia @ Joan Shepp

2011-11-02T07:25:00.000-07:00

Design Philadelphia at Joan Shepp Boutique

"Getting Dressed" with Artist Denise Fike
by Eun Han Jeon and Christy Lucca

Passersby stopped to get a glimpse of the Design Philadelphia event, Getting Dressed, held recently at the Joan Shepp Boutique. This event highlighted the talented abilities and creations of local artist, Denise Fike, and fashion designer, Bela Shehu. On a Saturday afternoon, Fike painted a model getting dressed in the boutique window. The model wore multiple designs from Shehu’s NINO Brand, along with over the top hats and accessories from Joan Shepp.

Bela Shehu is a young designer who serves as the head designer of her own NINO Brand and creative director and founder of SHEHU. She hires Drexel design students to assist and learn from her while fulfilling their co-op, and she also offered a design award for a fashion design student this year. Her NINO Brand collection features sophisticated and unusual silhouettes with a muted color palette. Denise Fike is one of Shehu’s good friends, and they work together on many projects and events. She enjoys capturing female forms, florals and fashion in her paintings.

At the Getting Dressed event, Fike illustrated life-size portraits of a model wearing the NINO Brand collection on large sheets of white fabric. After she finished, the black and white linear drawings were hung in the store window to be viewed onlookers from the sidewalk. The event brought attention to the two local artists, and it attracted customers to the store itself. Bela Shehu and Denise File are not very well known, but both possess extreme creative talent. It was inspiring to see their work recognized in Philadelphia.

Review: The Whole Love, Wilco

2011-11-02T07:06:00.000-07:00

By Amanda Rodriguez

Close your eyes. You are in a car. The sun is greeting the day warming your skin. The wind is tracing every strand of hair on your head. Your hand slices the morning air in a wave. The empty roads devoured by burnt orange, rust and yellow leaves introduce you to a new world. It’s like a perfect scene to the end of a great indie film that you are staring in, but what song would capture and paint the emotions felt? “The Whole Love,” on Wilco’s eighth album of the same name embodies every sensation experienced.

Rolling Stone says, “Wilco often specialize in uncomfortable comfort music: Seventies-style melodies submerged in dark, abstract sounds and cloudy emotions,” and if you have seen their documentary released in 2002, I Am Trying To Break Your Heart: A Film About Wilco, you would understand why. Jeff Tweedy, as well as Wilco as a band have undergone a great deal of pressure from past record labels.

After locking themselves in their studio for weeks on end and ultimately losing Jay Bennett to artistic differences, Yankee Hotel Foxtrot was conceived. With this album they wanted to bring a different feel and emotion to their work, which resulted in their record label, Reprise, refusing to release the record. Feeling this was the best work he had created, Tweedy left Reprise and signed with Nonesuch Records, making this the best career move Wilco could have made.

Today Wilco is under their own label, dBpm, which allowed the band to rediscover an independence and freedom they once possessed. This upbeat, psychedelic-meets-folk fusion they have sprinkled throughout the whole, The Whole Love album definitely represents their new freedom. This album to some is considered to have a sense of country waltz, with twists of Dixieland as well as blend of early Beatles sounds. I’m sure you are saying to yourself, what the heck, however the strange union between all of the sounds is what makes this album so enjoyable.

It’s apparent that Tweedy had issues with his father in the past with lyrics such as “dreamt about killing you again last night, and it felt all right to me,” however it is evident that he is talking about his father in the last song on the album, One Sunday Morning. The 11 minute and 58 second song is a combination of different struggles Tweedy has experienced. This is the only song within the whole record that you will hear the sadness portrayed through the music. Although the other songs do talk about pressing issues and love, there is a sense of relaxation to them, a sort of upbeat manner that they possess.

With the hard earned freedom, Wilco has created something that most bands try to achieve but will never acquire. Wilco has gained a sense of self and independence that is all their own.

Close your eyes. You are in a field of grass. Let the music engulf your mind.

Eames: The Architect and The Painter

2011-10-31T13:00:00.000-07:00

Drexel recently hosted the film Eames: The Architect and the Painter. The film was shown, followed by a question and answer session with one of the directors of the film, Bill Jersey. While it was not an event that I was particularly interested in before attending, my friend studying interior design and architecture dragged me to see it. Within moments of the film starting, I knew I was going to enjoy the film.

The film introduced Charles and Ray Eames, design extraordinaires who worked from 1940s until Charles’ death in 1978, a quirky couple whose photographs show an insanely cute bond of the two, both lovers and partners in design. Their designs flashed across the screen, one after the next, and each one looking equally familiar to me. Charles and Ray Eames, along with their office of associates, appropriately named The Eames Office, were frontrunners in developing the modern American design aesthetic.

Charles’ “Eames Chairs” are regarded to be his most celebrated designs. He stripped away all extraneous elements of a chair, and created the most simplified device for sitting. The chairs were made from plywood, a cheap, easily accessible material, and were about to be mass-produced for a wide audience. These designs are still mimicked today in modern furniture design. Despite being affordable at one time, an Eames Chair truly manufactured by the Eames Office will run a steep bill in current times. One after the next, their designs were celebrated by designers and consumers alike. There was constant pressure to make another great chair, but somehow, Eames always managed to do it.

While Charles was the primary designer of the furniture, Ray was the backbone that held the designs together. Charles knew structure, but Ray knew color. This knowledge of color provided Ray a platform for design patterns for the furniture. Her designs are also still copied today and recognizable without knowing who the couple is.

The film also reveals other design conquests, including film and exhibition design, all while being narrated by James Franco, oddly enough. After the film, Bill Jersey humbly and humorously answered questions about the couple and the research put into developing the film. With hundreds of thousands of reference materials on the couple, the choice of editing what made the film or not provided more work than gathering the actual material. Whether you have an interest in architecture, fashion, painting, or multimedia design, this film offers a great look at amazing designers who impacted multiple industries, and did so beautifully.

Rebellion + Time + Money = Main Stream

2011-10-26T07:16:00.000-07:00

“Rebellion + Time + Money = Main Stream.” This simple equation is the square root to rebellious fashion trends. On October 20^th, Design Philadelphia brought the rebel himself, designer and musician Keanan Duffty, to Drexel University to share his new book, Rebel Rebel, Anti-Style. From one legged jump suits to wearing underwear in public, he describes the the ins and outs of rebellious fashion or, non fashion, and how they came about.

His fascinating and illuminating graphics complemented Duffty's comical, diverting and sensational lecture. His cheeky personality made the presentation all the more entertaining. Duffty’s phrase, “rebellion + time + money = main stream” was repeated throughout his presentation about rebellious styles from the 1950s to today. In a basic, very concise, description of his book, Duffty explained his inspiration from icons such as David Bowie, Marlon Brando, and Kurt Kobain, and how their individuality and their desire to move against the mainstream actually began entirely new fashion trends. This movement of non fashion and their rebellious activities were contradictory to their outcome.

For the most part, when people, more specifically students, hear the words “guest speaker” they often sigh and think of which high score they will break on their iPhone. Keanan Duffty’s presentation was not only entertaining, but it was informational, educational and fun. I would go to hear Duffty speak anytime, anyplace. And I will always remember, Rebellion + Time + Money = Main Stream.

It looks like Duffty enjoyed his visit to Drexel, too. See his latest blog posting:

http://rebelrebelantistyle.blogspot.com/

Mmm, mmm, good.

2011-10-26T07:10:00.000-07:00

I once was in a world where I could grab a cloud in my hand, throw it around and watch it float slowly back into the air. I once was in a world where I was lost in colors, textures, sounds, and space. I once was in a world where superheroes were frozen in time. I once was in a world where drag queens, druggies, models, and rich snobs melted into one being creating one thing, art. This may seem like an acid trip to most, but this was beyond a psychedelic reality.

“Popular, transient, expendable, low cost, mass-produced, young, witty, sexy, gimmicky, glamorous, big business.” – British artist Richard Hamilton used this shopping list of adjectives to describe what he coined as “Pop” art. I experienced the whole list on a visit to the Warhol Museum, located in Pittsburgh, PA.

Every floor of this museum was dedicated to a different aspect of Andy’s life showcasing the varied media he used throughout his artwork. When entering the museum I was told begin my journey on my first floor, then go to the very top level and work my way down.

The first floor was devoted to the beginning of Warhol’s life and the start of his career. When entering the room, you are to begin on the right hand side working your around the rectangular layout. Words such as pop artist, entrepreneur and innovator were randomly placed all over the large white walls, used to identify Warhol.

Continuing to the upper level, you are immersed into a comic book world created by Alex Ross. Portraits and action shots of superheroes line the brightly colored red walls dragging you into a deeper understanding of each individual. Paintings, drawings, and sketches of Ross’s progression throughout his life fill the room making it feel more intimate than most. The movement makes you feel that you are traveling through an endless comic strip. Although the pictures are serious in artistic nature, there is a sense of youthfulness that bleeds from every painting, screen print, or sketch. As you leave the room the last thing you see is a cartoon drawing of Andy Warhol flying through clouds superhero-style.

Every room throughout this museum allows you to interact with different media and viewpoints of art. One level is strictly devoted to Warhol’s movies, screen plays, interviews, and television shows, while another floor is dedicated to spatial installments. Warning: In case of a blown mind due to art, make sure you are a few feet away to prevent goo from splashing on that work. Correction, in case of a blown mind due to art make sure you are close to the work to allow goo to add to the artistic element it possesses. Who is to judge what pop art is?

The Pomp

2011-10-26T02:54:00.001-07:00

The pompadour--- named for Madame de Pompadour of the 18^th century - is making a huge comeback. Its last resurgence appeared in the 1950s and 60s and was best rocked by icons James Dean and Elvis Presley. Traditionally a men’s hairstyle, the pompadour features hair tufted at the crown while remaining streamlined on either side. This hairstyle within the past few years has become a major statement and can be seen at its best on artist Janelle Monae, who has successfully trademarked the style for herself. A clear indication of its hype can be witnessed when searching Google images “pompadour hairstyle.” The number of current pictures are evenly divided with those of the 50s, reflecting just how influential the style is.

Studio Moko, located in Old City recognized this need for The Pomp, as it is now poshly called, and launched an event to herald its comeback recently. Moko styled models that rocked the hairstyle, and attendees joined for an intimate event over cocktails. The windows of the salon featured images of old icons strung together with pops of color to catch the eye. It was a great celebration of past and current culture, an over all fun way to pay tribute to the originator herself.

Window Design by:

Amy Bottie Hildenberger

Tierra Mia Organic Nail Spa

2011-10-24T18:57:00.001-07:00

TIERRA MIA ORGANIC NAIL SPA

Tierra Mia is the Philadelphia nail salon where you can get your nails done with organic materials. Manicures and pedicures are part of fashion and styling, so many of people are getting more sensitive about the appearance of their hands and feet. But are mani-pedis okay or good to your nails?
With mass media and many business industries talking about green, eco-friendly, and organic, then why not for my nails?

Tierra Mia is the place you should check out. Their interior is very comfortable, clean and modern...also very green. Flowers makes you feel cozy and in a luxury spa. Most nail salons in Philly don’t really care about their interior - sometimes I feel I’m at factory, not a salon.

Tierra Mia’s nail products are natural and organic based. The owners told me that there are two kinds of nail lacquers, one is emulsion (which means water based), and the other one is nitrocellulose based, which means solvent. Most other nail salon’s nail lacquers are nitrocellulose based. It is quite toxic. Although many companies have removed formaldehyde, toluene and dibutyl phthalates, which are considered as the toxic trio, but still their nitrocellulose based products are toxic. Is it really harmful? Yes, it can be the cause of cosmetic poisoning, and every time you put manicure on your nails, your nails and your body absorbs toxic chemicals and keep it in your body’s fatty tissues and internal organs.

So then, how does Tierra Mia serve their customers? They have coconut mani and pedicure service and soy hair removal service. Their nail lacquers are water based with many different organic materials. Customers say after they get their nails done, they look good and there was no bad chemical odor. Looking pretty is important, and that is the number one reason why people get their nails done, but now it is the time to think about the inside of your body getting prettier.

A View from the North

2011-10-19T08:42:00.001-07:00

Jillian Fragetti

Sara Ozege just started her senior year at Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario. Her perspective on OccupyPhiladelphia revealed a Canadian’s outlook on a current US event.

Me: As a Canadian, how often/how many times have you come to the US?

Sara: 10+, it’s easy to go back into Canada so we go for shopping often.

Me: Do you get a lot of news and info about things going on in the US on a daily basis?

Sara: Yes, we get your news all the time.

Me: What have you heard about OccupyWallStreet?

Sara: Lower income people are telling the higher up people in banks and economists that they are responsible for the economic crisis in the States.

Me: Have you heard as much or anything about the same happening in Philly?

Sara: We know that it's spread but not specifically to Philly.

Me: What is your personal opinion of what is going on?

Sara: It's in reality there is no one to be held responsible and no one that can really fix the situation that they are in.

Me: Do you think it is something that should continue or would there be a better way to go about what they are trying to accomplish?

Sara: Yes, reasonable solutions need to be addressed, but this is not a productive way of going about it

Me: Is Canada going through similar economic problems?

Sara: Nope, our economy has remained stable. Our currency is actually worth more now than the US, which hasn’t happened in awhile.

Me: Why do you think your economy is doing better than ours?

Sara: Everything is more stable here and we’re a lot smaller so it is easier to control.

Me: Has the US economy affected your daily life in Canada in any way? (If so, how)

Sara: No, we’re pretty independent from the US. Everything is run differently so the same things don’t affect us.

Me: Do you think your government has a better way of being run than ours to prevent these sorts of problems?

Sara: It’s definitely different but not necessarily better because it’s under greatly different circumstances. Size differences, the way we were established, all of those things affect how your government is set up.

Drugs That Won't Send You to Rehab

2011-10-13T19:59:00.000-07:00

Living in a time where TMZ and Perez gives us weekly updates of celebrity substance abuse and relapses, illegal drugs have made their way into popular culture. Being associated with celebrity lifestyle and glamor has removed some of the dirty connotation to them, which in turn has been a platform for designers and brands to absorb drug culture into their clothing and make substance abuse wearable, with an excellent sense of dark humor.

Jeremy Scott x Longchamp

Pill Le Pliage Bag, $322

Collaborating with French bag brand, Longchamp, American designer Jeremy Scott used the pill print from his spring/summer 2011 collection and had it printed on Longchamp’s oversized travel bag. The result is a literal pill bag that may set airport security on edge when you place it on the belt to be x-rayed. Once you manage to get through security checkpoints and land in London, the cheeky humor of the bag will score many glances from shoppers on Old Bond Street and maybe even a smirk or two.

Cast of Vices

Oxycontin Necklace & Coming and Going Hospital Bracelet, $198 each

Cast of Vices aims to celebrate the design aesthetic of substance abuse while recognizing pop culture’s obsession with self-medication and addiction. The result of this effort is a line of addictive jewelry that has a poison for every abuser. Pictured is an Oxycontin necklace in silver that may cause some questioning of your health from your friends and coworkers. Also shown in the silver Coming and Going bracelet that has eternalized every hospital check-in that you may or may not have had in silver rather than plastic and paper. Show your frequent-flyer-status by tightening the bracelet to the perfect fit and being proud of your addictions, whether it is pills or fashion.

Bobby Berk Home

Plank Pills Yoga Mat, $85

Who said that a druggy couldn’t appreciate Sunday yoga in the park? With this yoga mat by Bobby Berk Home, you can take your drug cocktail to yoga, even if they did fall all over the faux bathroom tiles. Bobby Berk acknowledges that not every person that takes a yoga class likes pink butterflies and blossoming lotus flowers. Downward dog becomes infinitely more fun when you get to stare at your addiction beneath you.

Eddie Borgo

Penny Poison Ring, $375

New York based jewelry designer Eddie Borgo has developed his line of sharp, edgy pieces that are darkly beautiful. His Penny Poison ring allows you to lift up a decorative silver penny to reveal a small container that can hold some powder if you need to take it on the go. No need to deal with tiny plastic bags when you can hold your substance in a beautiful Borgo ring that certainly makes your drugs feel more expensive than the price paid.

Occupy Philadelphia

2011-10-13T11:52:00.000-07:00

The public voice has spoken. Confronting what they believe to be the cause of the downward economic slope that steepened in 2008 and has continued to plague our nation ever since. In mid July the Adbusters group released a civic summon for a peaceful occupation of lower Manhattan, beginning on the 17^th of September. The call was greeted with widespread support.

Teachers, college students, labor members, unemployed workers, and the other 99% are coming together at the intersection of Broad and Market Street to express their discontent and disgust for corporate America and politics. The gathering at City Hall is an extension of the current Wall Street protest.

Occupy Wall Street is a horizontally organized resistance movement employing the revolutionary Arab Spring tactic to restore democracy in America. The origin of the name transpires from the wave of Middle Eastern demonstrations beginning in December of 2010. The protests consist of civil resistance in sustained campaigns involving strikes, demonstrations, marches and rallies, with an emphasis on social media. The efforts behind Occupy Wall Street can be accessed through an array of different outlets. Countless images, forums, LiveStream, chats, Twitter, Facebook and Reddit are all enabling a wild fire-like spread of the protest.

Clearly stated on the website promoting this event is the mission statement claiming, “Our nation, our species and our world are in crisis. The US has an important role to play in the solution, but we can no longer afford to let corporate greed and corrupt politics set the policies if our nation.” The points of attack, although vague, are strong in the fact that they deeply resonate with a vast majority of frustrated citizens.

An undeniable energy permeates the atmosphere, whether an onlooker or active participant. The clusters of haphazard and colorful tents set against the intimidating backdrop of City Hall create a juxtaposition that borders on comical, yet comforting. Powerful signage and obvious camaraderie between activists almost gives the laidback air of a 1970’s hippy rally. Almost.

In a speech from October 9^th, Slavoj Zizek declares, “The only thing I’m afraid of is that we will someday just go home and then we will meet once a year, drinking beer, and nostalgically remember what a nice time we had here. Promise ourselves that this will not be the case. We know that people often desire something but do not really want it. Don’t be afraid to really want what you desire.”

Take a few minutes out of your shopping trip on Walnut and venture over two streets to see for yourself.

Backstage at Charlotte Ronson Spring 2012 Runway Show

2011-10-08T08:42:00.000-07:00

Working backstage at the Charlotte Ronson Spring 2012 fashion show was by far the most amazing experience during my co-op. I’ve volunteered backstage at small shows before, but nothing could compare to working behind the scenes at Charlotte Ronson. Fashion shows are definitely not all glitz and glamour. Preparing for the show took long hours and hard work. We received multiple shipments of the clothing samples for the runway and our showrooms that had to be sorted, labeled, and checked off on our inventory sheets. As interns, it was our job to help with all the last minute changes. We sourced buttons in the garment district, switched and sewed the buttons, cut lining out of tops and dresses, and dyed various pairs of shoes. We created an emergency runway kit full of matching thread, needles, scissors, tide to go pens, shoe inserts, and lint rollers. At this point, things were just getting started.

The model castings began about two weeks prior to the show with help from Natalie Joos, a well-known casting agent in New York City. We had a schedule of models coming to the office everyday to try on specific looks and be photographed. Charlotte and our stylist, Natasha Royt, looked at each model’s book, which contained all of their information and photographs to decide who had the right look for the show. After they narrowed it down, it was time to confirm if they were available for the day of the show. Two of the confirmed girls were chosen to come in to meet with Natasha to try on different outfits and decide what exactly was going to be shown down the runway. Each look was photographed and posted on boards for the design team to narrow down. We ended up with a total of 39 looks.

Once the models were confirmed, they came into the office to try on some of the outfits, so Natasha and Charlotte could decide who would be wearing what. These were the days that I helped dress the models, took pictures, and made the model cards. Every model received a poster stating their name and showing the pictures of the exact look that they would be wearing on the runway. The cards explained exactly how to put on the entire outfit including shoes and accessories. These model cards were extremely helpful on the day of the show because they made sure everyone who was backstage was on the same page in regards to dressing each model.

The day of the show was extremely stressful. About fifteen minutes after everyone met at the office, there was a power outage and a water leak. In a panic, the employees and interns packed up the entire collection and had everything ready to go the venue in a matter of minutes. We all headed straight to the Lincoln Center and had hours of down time before we could head backstage. Once the clothes arrived, everyone headed backstage where we separated the garment bags on racks. There were two to three models assigned to each rack, and the dressers spread out their looks and made sure everything was ready to be put on quickly. All of the interns helped dress the models and lined them up according to their look. In a matter of ten minutes, the show was over and we were all finally able to breathe! Although the Charlotte Ronson fashion show was stressful, I loved every minute of it.

View the complete collection online at http://www.style.com/fashionshows/complete/S2012RTW-CRONSON

"30 Days/31 Ways"

2011-10-07T07:58:00.000-07:00

The start of October not only reminded us of the official end of the summer with the chilly weather that has been brought upon us, but it also marks the start of the Mural Arts Month. With the city of Philadelphia having the largest, and in my opinion the most influential, public art programs in the United States, this special month dedicated that very program will be full of activities and things to do.

Since its beginning in 1984 as a part of the Philadelphia Anti-Graffiti Network, the Mural Arts Program has created over 3,000 murals as a way to create and promote community involvement, education, and creativity. The Mural Arts Program challenges youth to inspirer peers through art and reduce violence with alternate means of expression. The program also has been a leader in bringing the arts into the national prison systems providing inmates with stipends to create parts of murals seen throughout the city.

Throughout the month of October, The Mural Arts Program will be hosting the month long celebration titled, “31 Days / 31 Ways Art Ignites Change”. The program selected a group of community members, artists, and other important figures in Philadelphia to explain how “art has ignited change” in each of their lives. There will be sponsored events throughout the city all month long including free trolley tours, egg hunts, and mural dedications. More information is available on Philadelphia’s Mural Arts Program website at http://muralarts.org/

Drexel Fashion Show 2011: We ROCKED it!!!!

2011-06-07T08:23:00.003-07:00

WHAT A RUSH! The Drexel Fashion Show 2011 was certainly a crazy ride.
This past Saturday was the culmination of all our hard work, as the fashions hit the runway for a 4pm show and an 8pm show. To start off with, let's talk about the space; the URBAN headquarters is located in the Philadelphia Navy Yard, which was originally leased by Congress to support the nation's Navy. Urban Outfitter's Corporate Campus is located right along the water in the Navy Yard, with a different building for each of their brands.
Building 543 was the site of the Drexel Fashion Show. This space is truly amazing. With the industrial building and exposed beams juxtaposed with free spirited fabrics, relaxing indoor ponds, lush greenery and a smorgasbord of vintage and funky looking furniture, the space is truly unique and creates an environment that is inviting to guests and employees. Light streams through the huge windows and the space is polished off with an in-house gym and open-to-the-public cafe.
It is only fitting that the Drexel Fashion Show holds it's show at the Urban headquarters as we have always had a great relationship with the company.

Shows look great from the audience's perspective, the show appears like a smoothly choreographed dance, but behind the scenes there are actual people making that happen. In this case, it was the D&M students including myself. Communicating with headsets and hope, the backstage operation went from super scary (dress rehearsal) to practiced progress (4pm show) to flawless fun (8pm show). Despite our nerves and anxiety, there was always a great vibe of teamwork and excitement. We were all so incredibly happy to be there and we had so much fun!!!! It will definitely go down in the books as one of my favorite days in all four years of college. We pulled together beautifully and couldn't be more proud of how great the show was. I had so much fun with the models and crew backstage, here's a look at some of the beautiful backstage chaos and set-up fun!

The show was a compilation of different aesthetics and inspiration. Lady Worsley hoop skirts wider than the runway itself, origami evening wear, McQueen-like prints, antler headpieces, ready to wear knitwear, Phantom of the Opera gowns, laser-cut leather, hand-painted fabrics, Tokyo street-party lingerie, tea party dresses, sustainable fabrics, Cambodian crowns, Moroccan beachwear, and more, all contributed to making the fashion show one extensive work of art.

They always say a picture is worth a thousand words, so check some of the looks out below!!!

Check out more photos on our faebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/#!/DrexelFashionShow2011

The Judging Day Diary

2011-05-29T22:37:00.000-07:00

The fashion show is barely a week away, and I am loving every second of it. For this post I thought I would give you a backstage look into judging from a personal standpoint through my eyes.

Fashion Show judging swarmed the Nesbitt Lobby this past Thursday. All of Nesbitt lobby / Chapman Court was curtained off for dressing areas to get the models dressed and ready to walk in front of a panel of 10 judges all looking to give awards to the best designer in several different categories ranging from best menswear, most creative collection, most sale-able collection, best jewelry and so much more. To give you an idea of how hard the D&M’s worked on Judging from set up to clean up...my feet and legs were sore the next day...and I run all the time.

With that being said, it really is the best kind of exhaustion when you feel so accomplished afterward. It was buzzing chaos from the start; from bringing the rolling racks down from the 5th floor, to organizing them in a spatially effective manner, to making sure each designer gave the dressers instructions to getting the child models into their outfits and lined up on time (oy vey), it was like a massive flashback to working on the school plays in high school and being backstage an hour before "showtime" is called, except a million times more incredible. After we worked out one or two or three or four glitches, there were moments when we worked like a well-oiled machine; everyone knew where they were supposed to be and what they were supposed to be doing. I was placed right in the middle of this machine. Along with Roberta Gruber I had the perfect position smack dab in between the dressing area and the judging area. While I made sure models lined up, checked that the next collection was ready to go, gave models instructions before they walked and took notes of any comments Roberta had, there was a constant unwavering thought in the back of my head that this is one experience I know I will never forget, and it is something that is sure to dictate how I handle myself in my future career. Judging was a great moment for Fashion Show 2011 as excitement took over and all of our hard work finally started to make a clear shape before our eyes, and all the garments and collections really looked spectacular and unique.

The show is this Saturday June 4th at the Urban Outfitters Headquarters in the Philadelphia Naval Yard, I PROMISE you don’t want to miss it!!!!

Get tickets online Drexel.edu/westphal or in the Nesbitt Lobby everyday in between 12pm and 2pm (Tuesday in creese)

Like us on facebook Drexel Fashion Show 2011
Follow us on Twitter @dufashion2011

Artful Accessories

2011-05-21T12:46:00.000-07:00

As judging day for the Fashion Show looms on the horizon, we have to make sure every detail that goes into the dressing of every look is well taken care of. A big piece of this is keeping track of the accessories, including jewelry, shoes, handbags, and headpieces, which are very prominent in this year's show. Headpieces in the show this year include antlers, crowns, neon wigs, and more (getting excited just from hearing this? I know you are).

I have personally always been an accessory hoarder, fueling my addiction with endless chunky rings, layered necklaces, beaded clutches, large leather totes, piles of sandals and boots, braided belts, and multiple pairs of plastic and metal sunglasses. The best thing about accessories, is that each piece is like an individual work of art that brings the spice to a wardrobe. Collecting simple clothes to pair with bright, chunky, leather, or beaded accessories gives the closet a long lasting versatility. A beautiful accessory can last a lifetime.

To get us excited for the TRULY unique accessories walking down the runway on June 4th, I thought I would show you some of my favorite and most unique accessories for Spring!

Moo Piyasombatkul: Baroque Eyewear
It's always fun to see something completely new in fashion that you genuinely have never seen before. That's how I felt when I saw this eye wear in the new issue of Vogue. Moo studied Jewelry Design in college and just revealed her debut collection entitled: "Baroque Eyes." She explored porcelain craftsmanship and used Baroque inspiration and aesthetics to create something outstandingly original and lighthearted.

Her inspiration statement: "Polishing away vintage dust over antique furniture and transforming with a dramatic contemporary twist"

Prada: Cruise Collection 2011/12 Handbags

Prada handbags have always been a coveted accessory by women everywhere, and the handbags of this collection are sure to be just as desired. However, these handbags are not the typical glamorous design of Prada, but they are just as fantastic and well designed. Instead these bags bring fresh light colors with unique fabrics such as linen, straw, and leather twisted or braided straps. These bags are perfect for spring and summer with jean shorts and a tank top or a little sundress. They are truly the perfect accessory for warm weather.

The collection took inspiration from Gypsies and 70's style the result of which is a little bit chic and a little bit quirky. This collection makes the ridiculous look fabulous!

Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen: Spring 2011 Shoes

There are no words for how whimsically fantastic the shoes were in the Spring 2011 collection for Alexander McQueen. The shoes are both completely wearable and completely unique. These are the kinds of shoes that serve as a statement piece for any ensemble. Burton explored carved platforms, feathers, butterflies, gold toed boots, buckles and metal. The results were breathtaking and thought provoking.
By the way, if you haven't seen the full collection, trust me it's worth a look

Proenza Schouler: Resort 2011 Collection Jewelry

Ok, so let's skip over the part where you make fun of me for my clear unwavering obsession with these guys and fast forward to talking about their incredibly cool bungee chord and rope jewelry. This collection was inspired by their trip to India, but was fused together with the style of women today. The two described the collection as something that's in tune with the public right now and cool girls that walk the streets of New York and the beaches of Montauk. The brand is all about looking effortlessly cool and having unique pieces that become a part of you forever. So it's only fitting that McCollough and Hernandez find a way to make chic, fun, trendy jewelry out of rope, chords and stones. The jewelry feels like the DIY jewelry that you make poolside in the summer with your best friends (except much cooler of course) and is perfect to go with all the bright colors for spring and summer. Needless to say it has a hefty price tag, but it is certainly something I will be trying to recreate on my own!

Don't forget to buy your tickets to the Drexel Fashion Show, being sold in the Nesbitt Lobby every week day 12pm-2pm and in the Creese Student Center Lobby every Tuesday 12pm-2pm, or at drexel.edu/westphal

Like Drexel Fashion Show 2011 on Facebook
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Walk Like A Model

2011-05-04T14:40:00.000-07:00

Recently, we had model go-sees for the Fashion Show. Our entire class sat in the main auditorium while several models lined up to strut their stuff on the stage in hopes of making it into our show. I think we all felt a little weird at first at the idea sitting in judgment of how these models walked, stood, looked, posed, and dressed, but needless to say we had a TON of fun. There was definitely some blushing in the room among our D&M’s when the male models took the stage.

Watching the models walk, the biggest issue that stood out to me was when the model was clearly thinking too much about their movements and just generally trying way too hard. A model’s runway walk should look easy and natural, but many of these models made it look like a chore. The perfect balance when walking is definitely hard to achieve, but the less you think about it the better. Eyes should be looking forward, shoulders should be relatively still, arms shouldn’t be swinging crazily just as much as your body allows them to move naturally; for women it’s better to keep your upper arms somewhat close to your body and let the bottom part of the arm swing, men should just let their arms swing naturally. Hands should stay open but not robotic. Legs…it’s all about legs: men should walk naturally but take slightly longer strides, women also take longer strides but should make sure to put one foot in front of the other, this movement will allow the hips to sway, allowing for the proper arm swing. There are definitely a lot of logistics but they come easier if you don’t think about it.

Oh yeah! One more thing: STAND UP STRAIGHT. A good walk is ruined by a slouch.

Add a lot of confidence and you are runway ready!

My favorite model of the day was Camille from Reinhard. Camille had walked in the PIFA show; so we knew she was a shoe-in, but we had her walk anyway just so that we could all experience a natural and beautiful walk. Camille is classy, beautiful, stylish and effortless. She made everything look easy proving that she was meant for the runway.

A great story from the go-sees that shows how being natural and not trying too hard can really help is the Shane story. The Shane story will forever be a great memory from this year’s show. During a lull in models, a middle aged man steps into the room and asks us if we’re accepting young men for auditions as well and tells us that his son has interest and is here looking at Drexel for school next year and would love to audition for us. We say why not, let him walk! When Shane gets up on stage, he kindly informs us that he’s never walked before. He has a head-shot with him as he is pursuing acting. Shane does his walk and it is easy, balanced, and poised. We all sit there shocked as Shane just put several professional male models to shame.

Yes you can train models to improve on their walk, but a good portion of it comes from having a naturally relaxed easy breezy attitude that transfers onto the runway.

Check out some of the most famous models in the world walk below:

Linda Evangelista

Kate Moss

Gisele Bundchen

Naomi Campbell

If you haven't gotten your fashion show tickets yet be sure to stop by the Nesbitt lobby during the week 12pm-2pm or go to drexel.edu/westphal

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Pre-Selection 2011: Battles with Body Forms

2011-04-27T10:27:00.000-07:00

This past week, the fashion design students showed the results of their blood sweat and tears at pre-selection, one of the first checkpoints in the fashion show production process, when the designers present their work including senior collections, swimwear, lingerie, evening wear, and childrens wear. The panel of judges then made their initial decisions on which collections and individual works are worthy of the show. For the designers, the days leading up to this are spent locked in the studio, tweaking and adjusting their work until it reaches something they feel can be put in front of the judges. The intimidation factor here is that of Project Runway or American idol, with judges from the Fashion Design faculty who are truly knowledgeable in what makes good design and quality, including Roberta Gruber, and Keith Newhouse. The day progressed and all the Design & Merchandising students got their work out in for the week as they helped the designers get garments on and off the body forms and drag the body forms from the hallway to the studio. We worked on keeping track of each garments, giving them numbers and taking photos, to make putting the show in order as seamless as possible.

A few designers in, it became clear that the talent being brought to this show is consistent and unique. Not many pieces were cut, as the judges remained impressed with each collection. I spent the whole day helping out with the process and while I ended the day with sore legs, due to my endless battle with body forms, I loved seeing every piece and being there to get a first look at each designer’s collection aesthetic. The foundation of our show started to come into clear focus. The designers showed off leather cut outs, structural architectural silhouettes, reptile prints reminiscent of Alexander McQueen Spring 2010 collection, lingerie with a punk edge underneath studded miniskirts, large fur collars atop thick succulent suede coats, whimsical childrens wear, distressed hand woven knits, renaissance inspired fabrics juxtaposed with leather corsets, and so much more. The thing that I was most amazed by was how unique each individual collection was. One would potentially expect some of these designers to unconsciously end up with similar visions since they spend so many of their working hours together, but that is not the case at all. I could really see each vision individually and their inspiration statements really resonated with the visual outcome. Here is a sneak peek at some of the staggering details that graced the designs:

Be sure to "Like" The 2011 Drexel Fashion Show facebook page, which has gone live this week, and stop by Nesbitt during the week from 12pm-2pm to purchase tickets or online at drexel.edu/westphal.

The Art of Fashion: Roberto Capucci

2011-04-16T13:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, the Fashion Show Production class took a trip to the Philadelphia Museum of Art to see the Roberto Capucci exhibit. When we walked into the exhibit two museum workers gave us each an audio set and told us to set it to 700 for the introduction. I set my headphones to channel 700 and started a journey that I didn’t expect. It was the third dress that I came upon that made me much more aware of how special and beautifully constructed the clothes were that I was about to see. A red dress inspired by the ripples that a stone makes on the water. With the elegance of classic lines, the structure of architectural elements, and the organic beauty found in nature, this dress really encapsulated the elements that made up Capucci’s creative foundation.

I continued on, winding my way through a maze of 80 unique works, and I found myself blocking out the rest of the world while I swam through a sea of expertly crafted pleating, staggering prisms of color, perfectly hand beaded embroidery and rich fabrics. Set against black walls, the clothes, or should I say works of art, popped and engulfed the audience.

Capucci had definite creative benchmarks in his career. He explored color and clean silhouettes when he moved to Paris in the early 60’s. He started exploring the juxtaposition of odd materials with flowing fabrics after a trip to India in 1970. He used bamboo on the collar, waste and cuffs of a green silk dress, and hard stones on pink silk taffeta. Capucci even explored straw as a fabric. As ready-to-wear became more in demand, Capucci refused to sacrifice fashion as a form of art, and his pieces transformed into one of a kind architectural forms. In the early 80’s his sculpture dresses were products of a range of inspiration. Capucci was inspired by art, architecture, nature, music, sculpture, fruit, the human body and so much more. He has gone past anything most fashionistas today have ever seen, utilizing plastic cubes, glow in the dark beads, and wired sculptures wrapped around silk dresses. As time went on he became well known for his perfectly detailed pleating and his symbiosis of structure and movement.

Another amazing aspect of the exhibit was Capucci’s drawings. He drew out every detail before he created; every pleat, every bead, every color, and every shape were perfectly planned out.

Capucci refers to his work as "a study in form.”

The exhibit is up until June 5^th, so be sure to make the time to see it, because fashion will probably never reach Capucci’s level again in today’s ready-to-wear centric universe.

With the 25% off coupon for the gift shop, we all received after the exhibit, I bought myself a pack of postcards featuring pictures of the works at the exhibit. For your viewing pleasure, I have scanned and posted some of my favorites here:

Inspiration Takes Us to Wonderful Places

2011-04-10T12:27:00.000-07:00

The production process of the 2011 Drexel Fashion Show has been kicked into high gear this past week, and pre-selection is less than two weeks away. As the student director of this year’s show, I have been watching even more fashion shows online than I usually do. In fact sometimes I even block out a half hour of my night in favor of watching a few shows, especially from Fall Fashion Week 2011. From New York, Miami, Paris and Milan, I have been on Fashion Show overload. I find that once I start watching a few shows, I look up an hour later and realize I just inhaled about 15 shows from the comfort of my own couch. To kick off my weekly posts during the production of this year’s Drexel Fashion Show, I thought I would share with you my favorite shows of the season. A big piece of what interests me about these shows is the incredibly unique inspirations behind them, touching upon different cultures and different generations.

To give you a little preview of the inspirations behind the collections walking the runway at this year's Drexel Fashion Show: expect to explore the art of origami, take a walk in Japan and Cambodia, get a henna tattoo in Morocco, and listen to the smooth sounds of Miles Davis...

Proenza Schouler: most people who know me are well aware of my obsession with these guys, and this collection was my favorite so far, the fabrics, colors, and silhouettes were all perfectly executed...not to mention the shoes.

Inspiration: Native American blankets

Tommy Hilfiger: Hilfiger is usually too classic-American-sportswear for my taste, but this year’s fall collection was irresistibly cool, including the Runway itself.

Inspiration: Girlfriends of 1970’s Rock Stars

Oscar De La Renta: Always beautiful, this season’s collection explored color, layers, fur, classic lines, vibrant prints all in one, cohesive breathtaking collection.

Inspiration: Uzbekistan meets Vegas (only De La Renta could make this combo work)

All images courtesy of www.Vogue.com

See the full shows at www.Elletv.elle.com

Uwishunu

2011-03-10T19:51:00.001-08:00

If you love to be up on what’s happening around Philadelphia, I have a great website to use as a resource. Uwishunu.com is my go to website when planning fun things to fill up my calendar. The site has anything and everything one could possibly want to take advantage of or attend in the city. The categories include events, dining, drinks, nightlife, weekend, arts, music, shopping, sports, and video. You won’t miss a gallery opening, big sale, restaurant deal, or festival ever again. Plan fun dates with a special someone or organize an outing with the girls in a matter of minutes with the site. Most recently, I found a craft beer and cheese tasting event on St. Patrick’s Day that I purchased tickets to. I plan to give the tickets to my best friend for her birthday so that we can go together. Whatever it is, visit the site and I bet you’ll find some awesome events to have great memories at. Uwishunu about this website before, right?

Too Much Information

2011-03-09T15:37:00.000-08:00

In our technology driven society we are constantly hearing about the ways the internet, social media, etc. is affecting our everyday lives. Whether this affects us positively or negatively, the way we communicate using technology is extremely impactful. I recently watched the movie Catfish and it open my eyes to the negative side of social media. The movie is a documentary focused around a young photographer living in New York City named Nev Schulman. The entire movie is said to be completely true. Nev begins to receive paintings of his own photography from a so called child prodigy named Abby. Abby’s mother then began to contact Nev, and so did her older sister and brother, all through Facebook. Nev even began a romantic relationship with the sister via phone, Gchat, and Facebook. Nev began to question the family and decided to take a trip to their hometown in Michigan. Once he arrived at the house he saw that the entire family was a fraud. Abby’s mother had created all of the paintings and created multiple fake Facebook pages using pictures from other people’s profiles. After watching this documentary I was slightly disturbed that something like this could happen with social media. After double checking my Facebook privacy settings I vowed to always be careful when connecting with others over the internet.

Purchase with a Purpose

2011-03-04T09:57:00.000-08:00

This new spring collection at TOMs shoes is inspired by the artist, photographer, and creative activist Dan Eldon. Dan was one of the youngest Reuters photojournalists and his life was driven by a compassion for others and a need to help. At the age of 22 he was unfortunately killed by an angry mob in Somalia but his journals and his story continue to inspire.

Support his mission and the efforts of TOMs by purchasing a pair of shoes in the one-for-one movement or by buying apparel from the Dan Eldon shop. His mother and little sister established the shop showcasing his artwork created in his journals while traveling. All proceeds from sold merchandise go to the Dan Eldon Foundation/Creative Visions, serving to inspire everyday people to make change. More importantly, visit the Dan Eldon site to learn how you too can become a creative activist and the importance of purchasing with a purpose.

Restaurant Week 2011

2011-01-18T19:28:00.000-08:00

If you’re a “foodie” or just enjoy eating out you will be happy to know that this week is Restaurant Week in Philadelphia. The event is currently running since January 16th until January 21^st and will occur again from the 23-28 of January. This includes a 3 course meal for $35 or a similar lunch option for $20 at some of Philly’s finest restaurants. The much anticipated event began in 2003 and has since then expanded from one to two weeks and includes three times the number of participating restaurants.

The cuisine ranges from Mexican to seafood to steak and everything in between. Just some of the over 100 restaurants include: Alma de Cuba which offers modern Cuban cuisine at 16^th and Walnut, Chima Brazilian Steakhouse located at 1901 JFK Blvd, and Le Castagne which offers Northern Italian cuisine and is located at 19^th and Chestnut. It is nearly impossible to pass up these delectable options that on a normal day could break the bank. The additional lunch option makes this even more affordable for these gourmet restaurants. Also, many of the restaurants suggest BYOB. You can find a full list of participating restaurants at http://centercityphila.org/life/RestaurantWeek.php and make a reservation directly on the website. Be sure to reserve your spot as soon as possible because tables fill up extremely fast!

Has your zodiac sign changed?

2011-01-18T18:23:00.001-08:00

An astrological controversy erupted online recently after a newspaper article mistakenly suggested that the dates that determine the Zodiac signs had shifted by about a month. This threw off millions of believers into self-doubt and panic. Fear not: your zodiac sign remains the same. The tilt of the Earth's axis has gradually shifted since the ancient times when the Babylonians determined the dates of the Zodiac. This re-figuring also re-introduced a sign discarded by the Babylonians: Ophiuchus.

But astrologers and astronomers, two groups who usually don’t see eye-to-eye, agree that this news is about 3,000 years old. Western astrologers included the wobble of the Earth's axis in their calculations centuries ago. The Zodiac we are all familiar with is still perfectly valid. Astrologer Susan Miller called the news "ridiculous” and in an interview with ABC News, she said the constellations don't suggest what's coming up, the planets do. She explains that the constellations are a measuring device.

According to CNN, there have always been two zodiacs; the tropical zodiac and the sidereal zodiac. The tropical zodiac is fixed to seasons, while the sidereal zodiac is fixed to constellations and is followed more in Asia. The new reports that the sun is no longer aligned with constellations at the same time of year as it did a long time ago are irrelevant for the tropical zodiac which we follow. The seasonally based astrology was never oriented with the constellations, which is why there is no reason to worry because your zodiac sign has not changed.

The Lost Symbol

2011-01-18T17:28:00.000-08:00

The Lost Symbol

Dan Brown’s recent page turner, “The Lost Symbol,” is this year’s thriller. The author of, “The DaVinci Code,” delivers more mind-bending theories. This time around, you'll be wondering “what if” about the forefathers of our country, present day secret Masonic societies, and history’s leading scientists and philosophers along with their connection to a lost ancient wisdom. Robert Langdon, Brown’s famous protagonist, is prompted to uncover the wisdom. In order to do so, he takes us through a maze of symbols and riddles with mystifying solutions.

The book opens with Robert Langdon landing in Washington D.C. to deliver a last minute speech as a favor to his beloved mentor, Peter Solomon. The day’s events take an unexpected turn when it turns out Peter’s been kidnapped. His captor, who becomes increasingly twisted and creepy as we find out more and more about him, believes Langdon to be the one who can deliver what he seeks. He ransoms Peter in exchange for the lost knowledge he thinks Langdon can deliver. The CIA and some important individuals in the Capitol become involved, throwing curve balls of their own. Langdon finds himself working out the mystery along with Peter Solomon’s sister, Dr. Katherine Solomon, who performs unusual top secret research in a scientific field called Noetics. The novel culminates with a major twist that will delight your sense for adventure even more.

Dan Brown was already writing the “Lost Symbol” when “The DaVinci Code’s” success was blossoming. He admits to suffering a crippling moment during writing. Luckily, he was able to pull himself out of it, and deliver explorations into science, religion, and history that serve as interesting explanations of their respective mysteries. In an interview Brown sums up what the book is getting at: “The more science I studied, the more I saw that physics becomes metaphysics and numbers become imaginary numbers. The farther you go into science, the mushier the ground gets. You start to say, ‘Oh, there is an order and a spiritual aspect to science.’” It’s all very interesting, and definitely worth the read. I promise, you won’t want to put it down.

TOMS shoes: The Gift of Giving

2010-11-29T14:51:00.000-08:00

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

2010-11-29T06:50:00.001-08:00

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

2010-11-25T10:09:00.000-08:00

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...

2010-11-22T16:38:00.000-08:00

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!”

2010-10-26T20:51:00.000-07:00

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...

2010-10-25T15:17:00.001-07:00

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

2010-10-18T09:59:00.001-07:00

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

2010-10-13T00:37:00.001-07:00

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

2010-10-12T22:51:00.001-07:00

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

2010-10-12T22:32:00.000-07:00

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

2010-10-12T22:14:00.000-07:00

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

2010-10-12T19:01:00.000-07:00

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

2010-10-12T18:52:00.000-07:00

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

2010-10-12T18:40:00.000-07:00

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

2010-10-12T18:04:00.000-07:00

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"

2010-04-26T18:27:00.000-07:00

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"

2010-04-26T18:05:00.000-07:00

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

2010-04-14T08:54:00.000-07:00

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

2010-04-08T06:00:00.001-07:00

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

2010-03-16T17:14:00.000-07:00

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"

2010-03-02T13:56:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-23T17:19:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-23T13:09:00.000-08:00

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...

2010-02-23T09:47:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-22T12:20:00.000-08:00

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.