conocu @conocu-blog - Tumblr Blog

Ellery Homestyles: An Eye-Opener

First of all, this semester itself has been an eye-opener. Living and interning in New York, visiting all these great brands, and learning as much as I can about the industry has shown me so much about where I think my future may be headed, or at least given my ideas about things I wouldn’t have otherwise considered. With Ellery Homestyles, this was again the case as we were given a better understanding of what goes into producing things ranging from throw pillows for your bedroom to the living room drapes. It was really great to hear about the process and how design and product development interact, and learning how similar it is to what we do in fashion. At my internship at Pink Chicken, I’ve had several projects where I either recolored old prints or used parts of existing ones to create new prints, and seeing how this applies in other industries has pushed me to consider that Print Design could certainly be a career I’d enjoy. I got most excited on our tour when we saw the children’s bedding section of course, so I know that my direction towards the children’s market certainly is the right one! As I’m finishing up my semester here and taking away as much as I can, I’m looking forward to seeing where I’m headed in my future and I’m so thankful for experiences like the tour of Ellery Homestyles that really help me to pinpoint what peaks my interest most!

#studytournyc

Until Next Time, New York

After living here since August, I can definitely say that I’ve enjoyed all that New York has brought. The friendships, adventures, and changes it’s pushed me towards have been amazing and I know this was exactly what I needed for where I was in my life only a short time ago. However, I’m honestly really looking forward to going home, back to the Midwest. Coming to New York for me was largely to confirm that I didn’t want to end up here, or that my feelings about the Midwest and Columbus specifically being a better fit for me were correct. Sure, I’m going to miss a few things about New York, like being able to go out at 10 pm and find something to do, or going to art museums on weekends, or what I’ll miss most, the food, especially the endless supply of donuts and bubble tea. My personal favorites after this semester would have to be Donut Plant and PaTea. No matter the time or day, I’m always hungry for their sweet treats and I recommend visiting them yourself! It’s definitely a danger though, because the food is all so yummy that I push myself to try as much as possible, but that can all too quickly turn into eating out much more than someone should, so I’d definitely warn you about that!

However, I’m definitely not going to miss the smell, and I’m not really sure I need to elaborate any more on this other than the Midwest smells so much cleaner and better than the streets and subways and even people of New York. There’s something also to be said about the lack of wide open spaces, or space of any kind for that matter, like I’m used to. If we thought I got stir crazy in the suburbs and antsy for the flat plains of Ohio, you’d best believe New York has made 1 1/2 hour train and bus rides to find anything close to a farm worth it!

Going home over Thanksgiving break revived my spirit and has made New York enjoyable again, but that has largely come with the fact I know I’ll soon enough be returning home and New York is almost impossible to not enjoy when she’s dressed up in her holiday best! I’ve loved my time here and I plan on soaking up all the moments of it that I can, but I’m not going to lie. Home is where your heart is, and I’m much too far from mine.

#fashioninthemedia

Chelsea Galleries

Visiting art galleries is always something I enjoy, and the Chelsea art galleries were no exception! I saw at least five or so galleries, including the Comme des Garcons store which I would certainly consider a gallery of its own. Actually, let’s start where we ended, at the beautiful experience that was entering the world of Rei Kawakubo. The store has this really unusual metal pathway leading up to an egg-shaped glass door that pushes either way, with track lights in the floor. It’s all very space-agey and I was excited from the time I entered to see what the rest of the store would be. Now, for anyone who was lucky enough like me to visit her exhibit while it was at the Met, I would compare it to that set-up, with large curved sections that almost interrupt the space as you walk through, almost feeling like you’re hunting for the clothes and accessories in a maze. The clothes themselves were obviously incredible, and combined with the architecture and merchandising of the store, the whole location was a well-crafted burst of Rei’s vision. Before this, it was only a further lead-up of talent as we enjoyed visiting the surrounding Chelsea galleries. I wish I remembered the artists, but luckily the exhibits are up for the next month or so, so if you’re in the area I would highly recommend dropping by because they are amazing! For each of the five, I’ll try and describe a sneak peek of my favorite piece or what stood out to me: colorful forests, Dr. Seuss realized, furniture goals, lights in the night, and a celebration of dark skin. The colorful forests were a collection of different tree silhouettes as a forest in a range of color palettes, from pink and orange with black trees to blue and green with yellow trees, and several others. They had the same texture of crayons in a way, and this gallery was certainly at the top of my list. After this was a mix of science with colorful test tubes (see picture) and an installation of a thin paper-like membrane that stretched out and across the window with attached little balls and triangular shapes, which was my favorite of everything we saw, and certainly as I said felt like Dr. Seuss realized. Next, there was this gallery with all sorts of different furniture like tables and chairs that were incredibly crafted and were something I could only hope to furnish my future home, if I had that kind of coin, that is. “Lights Up the Night” was an entire gallery that I had noticed on their list online and was so excited to see, and the piece I remember was a photo of lights flashing in the night that was really beautiful, but the rest of the pieces didn’t really relate to the theme or were not as exciting, in my opinion. Lastly, another at the top of my list, was a celebration of dark skin, with various photographs of a main woman, which I’m pretty sure was the artist and a few other individuals with very dark complexions, dressed in different accessories and garments reminiscent of African cultures in powerful poses or affronting gazes. It was really powerful and exciting to see such strength in only a photograph. Overall, the Chelsea galleries and the Rei Kawakubo store were amazing and I would love to visit again!

#studytournyc

Why I Love My Best Friend (just kidding, that list would be way too long)

I think most people would have an answer to the question “Who’s your best friend?”, because honestly I’m not sure how many of us would get by without one. It’s human nature to connect with others and make friends, but inevitably, out of all the millions of people we could meet, a few over a lifetime will evolve to become the best friend. For me, this is something that means a little bit more. When I was growing up, I struggled to make friends because I switched schools in 3rd grade and it’s awfully hard to break the solidified bond of matching Claire’s bracelets. As I got older, I felt myself grow into the role of temporary friend. Sure, all friendships have phases and sometimes this means growing out of them, but for me it was a bit different. In at least three friendships with someone I considered my best friend, after maybe two years they would give me some reasoning like I was strange or I wasn’t cool anymore (yes, this was said to my face), and I’d be forced to accept it with a smile and wish them well with their new friends. However, in the midst of two of such friendships, I was blessed with Zofia. In a lot of ways, it’s funny to think about how we became friends, as we bonded over The Princess Diaries and how handsome Chris Pine was, but it also makes me realize just how strange it would be if all of this hadn’t happened. Zofia has been my best friend since ninth grade, and now we are juniors in college so that’s over 6 years, but the truth is we weren’t always best friends. We were always close, that’s for sure, but at the time we floated between each other and other friendships that were just a touch closer. However, as high school progressed, we always floated back to each other (which isn’t too hard given a class of 74 other students) and would eventually hit our stride probably sophomore year, when a casual friendship turned into snack-sharing and constructive art critiques, banana bread that shouldn’t have been so good for coming from a cafeteria and music recommendations that were always great. In the next year or two, two friends whom I considered my “best friend” would just walk away because they wanted cooler friends, and it was after this that I began to worry I wouldn’t be able to have a best friend if I couldn’t keep one around. You see, I’m a fierce and loyal lover, putting others very far ahead of myself, so friendship has always been very important to me. I am certainly an introvert, but my purpose in this life is to love others and care for them so that pushes me to expand outside of my comfort zone and be there for others when my first instinct is to retract into myself. With Zofia, this has always been true because it wouldn’t take a second thought for me to drop anything for her. I would do anything for her, without question. Like I’ve said, we haven’t always been best friends. But rather than grow out of our friendship, we grew into it. As the years have passed, Zofia has become the sister that I as only child always longed to have. Getting to share New York with her and finally show her all the places I’d see that reminded me of her this weekend was amazing and full of so many lovely memories. Before her, I thought I’d be the temporary friend. But Zofia has never really been just a best friend, but my other half. Plus, we’ve put up with each other for 6 years so at this point, we’re stuck together for the long haul!

#fashioninthemedia #bestfriend

Brooklyn Fashion and Design Accelerator

This past week, we visited a place that, if I could be convinced to live in New York, would be a major convincer. With sustainability as their focus, they help existing brands to grow under their guidance and work to apply sustainability to their brand in a way that makes sense, because it can come in at any point in the garment production process. It was really neat to see all the different designers and how they’ve worked together in different ways to help advance one another’s work. We also got to speak with one of the designers and hear why it was such a great place to work and how it had helped her brand. Like I said, I feel that if I was open to moving to New York, this place would have been a pretty big selling point. I am also interested in sustainability, and though I would be looking at joining their guidance program after having my own brand for a bit and therefore a bit down the line, it would still be such a great opportunity. I think if I did somehow end up here, I would certainly be interested in pursuing a relationship with this organization, whether it be as a client of sorts or a contributor who helps advance the organization in some way.

However, it also makes me wonder why this can’t exist in another city like Columbus, where I’d like to end up ultimately. It definitely has reminded me how important sustainability practices are to me, and now gives me more ideas and opens the possibilities to how I could work to bring what I like about the places I’ve visited in New York and bring them with me wherever I end up. But let’s cross our fingers, because I really hope it’s Columbus!

#studytournyc

Beauty isn’t all that beautiful

As I’ve said time and time again, fashion has countless victims. The search for comfort, beauty, and everything else leaves so many in path of carnage most of us don’t see or think to investigate further. It follows the journey of Sara Ziff, founder of Model Alliance, as she entered and left the international modeling industry and her success and struggles alike. It honestly just confirmed what I thought were dangers in the modeling field. Of course, this isn’t the case for every single person with this career, but it’s more likely than other industries and models can get taken advantage of incredibly easy. Even though this followed what I expected, which showed a model career as successful but also challenging and sometimes dangerous or compromising, it still really hurt my heart to read. I strive in this life to protect the dignity of the human person, and the modeling industry often fails to do so in so many aspects. However, Sara is fighting for the same values I hope to with her organization Model Alliance (www.modelalliance.org) which works to protect models and ensure they don’t face the types of struggle the models in the film faced. I cannot stress enough how important this work is, because many models previously worked in very unsafe conditions so close to sex trafficking that it’s almost unthinkable. Imagine these faces you see everyday on billboards, magazines, and television ads, and then wondering how many of them have been coerced or forced into compromising situations that were veiled as “moving up” in the industry or just “doing your time” to make it big.

Now, I’ve kind of danced around what exactly the danger is, but let’s put a name to it and call it what it is. Plain and simple, it’s sexual harassment. This is unfortunately something that can and does occur in any workplace, but in an industry like fashion, it’s almost easier in a lot of ways due to the nature of the business where it isn’t uncommon of girls to get photographed with little clothing, wanting to prove themselves and simply following directions even when they’re unsure, perhaps coming from another country and just assuming this is what it takes, and so many other reasons that DON’T justify any sort of harassment. This has been a hot topic in the news lately, with victims especially in the film industry finally becoming brave enough to speak up about their traumas. Unfortunately, I probably don’t need to list any names because by now, I’m sure a few have already come to mind. I think there is already enough unkindness, lack of safety, and general nastiness in fashion. We don’t need to add sexual harassment to that list. I feel like I really don’t need to say too much more on this horrible topic, because the important thing here is that we recognize it is STILL an issue and work to erase threats like this from and all industries, not just fashion. With people like Sara working towards bettering conditions with her work, however, we’re on the right track.

#fashioninthemedia

Getting connected, even if I’d rather disconnect

Now to set the record straight, I am all for being connected with the world and keeping updated with the latest headlines, because I think global awareness in all aspects is important and fashion is no exception. A great tool for doing this Texture, which creates a personalized library of popular magazines for you based on what you’ve chosen as your interests or favorites. I think the app overall is user-friendly and fairly easy-to-use, but the access it offers is overwhelming and the task of pushing myself to use it every day even more so. As an introvert, I like time to myself to recharge and just be in a little bubble of my own comfort, which lately involves a mug of cider snuggled up in a blanket as I rewatch The Office. When I need time to myself, which is quite often because that’s just who I am, I would rather use technology as little as possible. So, I think this app is great, but it’s just not for me. I update myself sporadically and through other sources, and this works for me. Pushing myself to be more in-touch and active just left me a little exhausted and less excited about magazines like Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and W, to name a few of the 200+ magazines they offer to you as a part of their services. I certainly recommend giving the service a try especially with the 14-day free trial because even though it’s wasn’t my cup of tea, it just might be yours!

To add to the overwhelming amount of information, I’ll expand this by mentioning that holy cow, are there a lot of other fashion apps! How are we supposed to find one that fits both need and time, especially if you’re someone like me who has a shorter attention span or isn’t interested in just reading a magazine. I’ve picked my top three favorites for you, so you’re welcome because it’s going to be so much easier! I’ve narrowed it down to The Hunt, Covet Fashion, and StyleBook. I think these cover a wider range of interest and need, so I’m sure you’ll find one for you. Starting with The Hunt, this is perfect for when you get outfit envy and are too afraid to ask where that stranger got such a beautiful pair of kicks! All you have to do is take a picture and post it, and within a short time, you’ll have your answer! Of course, this is incredibly useful of those of us that may be too nervous to initiate what really would be an easy conversation, but hey, in New York where everyone is in a rush, they might not even have time to answer! Next would be the app I have the most experience with and that’s Covet Fashion, a fun fashion game that lets you build outfits with clothes you’ve “bought” that are actually digital versions of real designer garments and enter competitions to see how well you’ve styled the looks. It’s a fun way to enjoy the finer side of fashion without having to spend any real money, and put your styling skills to the test with friends. Lastly, and honestly one of the most genius, would be StyleBook, an app that serves as a digital wardrobe to catalog your closet via photos, save favorite outfits or inspiration photos, pack for vacation, and much more. I personally would use this app or would like to aim to, if I could ever get around to photographing my endless number of clothes! It helps you to get better use and rotation of your clothes, and make outfits you might not otherwise. Maybe it would even help eliminate things you don’t wear as much, but in that case maybe I’m not too sure I want to find out! Overall, these three are pretty easy and fun to use, and I would certainly recommend checking them out for yourself!

Now, as I hope I’ve mentioned before, I am currently interning at the lovely Pink Chicken in NYC, which is a children’s and women’s wear brand. After working with this brand and the team for a couple months now, I think it’d be interesting to see their opinion on these apps as people of presence in the fashion world. Personally, I think they’d use Texture because they all stay educated and up-to-date on trends, and maybe StyleBook because they all seem to have pretty expansive and fun wardrobes, so new outfit ideas or an overall way to visualize their wardrobe could be to their advantage. For the brand however, I think Texture really only applies.

#fashioninthemedia #fashionapps

A Day at Fabric to Finish

There are a few times, before you enter the industry that you hope to have for the future, where you meet someone so similar to you in terms of personality, motivations, and goals that it makes you wonder if you’ll end up as successful as them or having pursued the same path. In a lot of ways, I felt this as we met Jamie Koff, founder and owner of Fabric to Finish, a “New York City-based company specializing in global product development and production management for the independent and emerging designer” (http://fabric2finish.com/about-us/). Jamie spent most of the time regaling her career history and how it had all led to this point. It was really interesting to hear how in several cases, she’d come back in contact with the same people she’d met sometimes years before, a perfect example of why you should always leave connections positive and how important networking is. Again, it was really great to hear about her adventures and how things, looking back, fell into place, but I wish she had told us more about her business. Fabric to Finish is a company that targets a need that was previously unaddressed in that it helps independent designers with their fabric needs and more to help get them started or to be more successful. Before Jamie started the business, this didn’t really exist, so it’s impressive that she recognized the need and pursued it. In this way, I relate a lot to Jamie especially because that’s what I hope to accomplish in my future. There are so many other fashion brands and companies out there already, so I know that when I hope to start my own, it has to be different and not just another women’s brand or some mumbo jumbo like that. I think this visit really just pushed me even more to consider my place in fashion specifically as it pertains to potentially owning my own business, and the steps it might take to get there. I’m looking forward to finding out, and with Jamie’s story in mind, I feel like I’m one step closer!

#studytournyc

Powerhouse

Tabitha St. Bernard Jacobs is a powerhouse. Activist, feminist, mother, businesswoman, entrepreneur, inspiring, and honestly just plain awesome, it seems that there are few things she is not. Getting to hear her story of helping to organize the Women’s March on the Washington, running her own sustainable fashion label, collaborating on another fashion line, then doing all three of these at the same time, just left me feeling in awe, but also extremely motivated. I find I don’t need to explain much of why she’s an inspiration, because these words kind of capture it all, don’t you think? It’s amazing that one woman who is also quite young can accomplish such great things and still be as kind and motivated as she is, and this pushes me to reach for the same. I feel a very similar mindset to Tabitha in that I want to pursue activism in my future, whether it be marches, petitions, conferences, or mission trips, I’m not sure exactly what it will look like (though I feel a strong push towards mission trips). But, I know that I want to be active and that’s a start. However, a start for me isn’t enough. I want to follow Tabitha’s example and follow through, then continue to follow through and maybe even search for new ventures. I hope to continue to remind myself of my place in this world and the responsibility I have to make a change because I know I can. Fashion will likely be a way in which I make an impact, but it certainly won’t be the only way and seeing Tabitha has taken on other endeavors assures me that this is possible, as I had hoped.

To put it simply, she is brave and I hope someday and I can be just like her.

#studytournyc

Wait, it takes what?

To be entirely honest, this question applies to almost anything in the fashion world and other interpretations will probably continue in later posts, but for now we’re going to focus on it’s application to magazines, specifically Vogue because I think it’s pretty common. If you flip through the probably un-purchasable luxuries and confusing fragrance ads, you’ll find this handy dandy page called a masthead, which lists all the lovely humans who put their hearts and souls make Vogue happen. Having spent the smallest, minute bit of holding the role of copy editor/research for our class magazine, I wanted to find out more about an actual copy editor and took a peek into what the work experience of Joyce Rubin, the copy editor for Vogue, looks like. Furthermore, I’ve realized I had several questions for her so I thought why not write her a letter? Of course, I wouldn’t hold out on all of you lovelies, so here it is.

Dear Joyce Rubin,

Hello and thank you in advance for your time. My name is Colleen Curtis and I am a junior Fashion Design student at Kent State currently studying at our New York City studio. For one of our courses, we are producing our own publication and I have served as the Copy Editor for our group and was hoping I could ask a little bit more about your career as one. After referencing your career history of serving as a Copy Editor for several magazines since about 1979 until now, I think my biggest question is what interested you in this in the first place? Additionally, what has kept you interested after holding this position with four different magazines, which would be Esquire, Playboy, New York Magazine, and now Vogue? I’ve also noticed that after you graduated with your We were told that serving as the Copy Editor entails a great deal of attention to detail, specifically the grammar and spelling throughout the issue, as well as other responsibilities related to this. What would you say makes up a typical day of work for you? Do your responsibilities change based on the week, or are they fairly consistent? We’ve only worked on the magazine for a short while, so I of course don’t know the full extent by any means of what this title entails, but I have found it takes a lot of patience and again, attention to detail, to make sure everything is correct and appropriately expressed. I really enjoy this position, as someone who considers grammar important and cringes whenever it may be misused. Is this something you find too, or does this almost feel like bringing work home for you? I’m sure I could ask so many questions of you, but I don’t want to take any more of your time. Thank again for your time and I look forward to your reply.

Sincerely,

Colleen Curtis

#fashioninthemedia

Meeting The Dame, soulstyler and soulmate

What a lovely weekend it was! I hope it blesses all of you too as it did me. It all started with a visit from Dame Lori, a soul styler and powerhouse of a woman. From the moment she walked into the room, the energy was lifted! She told us a little about her career history and how she found her path, from working at a fabulous thrift store to owning her own business aimed at empowering her clients using fashion, hence the soul-styling. She explained how she felt fashion was her calling in life and the more spiritual aspects of fashion that I don’t think many people consider. It was a really heartfelt lecture, and it made me consider once again something I have so many times before in the past year or so and that’s my place in fashion. I personally feel a responsibility to make fashion a loving and caring industry whether that’s in my own brand someday or fighting for workers’ rights and protection of their dignity, I’m not sure yet. But I do know that she reminded me again of how fashion should make people feel special and cared for, and not just the people wearing the clothes but everyone in the process from conception to purchase of the garment. Going forward, I will continue to consider how I can make fashion better and more like the way The Dame sees it, because I think we all should all see it at least a little bit in the bright way she does. This might be a challenge, but when have I ever been one to let that hold me back?

#studytournyc

Professional chit-chats: Elizabeth Tritsch

Normally, after a guest lecture during our Friday Study Tour Sessions, I would have a lot to offer, but this past time I think I may wasn’t connecting as much with what was being said. Image consultant Elizabeth Tritsch joined us and told us about her many career changes over the years, from stylist to loans to flight attendant and back again, and it was all really interesting. It was nice to hear how she traced her journey and was always passionate about fashion and where it led her, but I just had a hard time at the end of it all connecting with her mindset. She spoke about establishing your career first and foremost and focusing on yourself and that as you grow, and to never feel stuck or like you can’t go after something new. This was all relatable until I asked her opinion on having a family and she said you can have one after your career if you like because by then, you can afford it as well as quality child care. I think that was what ended up striking me was the idea of child care. This post is a little bit more personal than some others have been I think, so it’s only fair I share a little dash of Conocu insight with you today. I am a HUGE family person, and want more than anything to be a wife and mommy. So so very badly. The idea of someone else taking care of my children just didn’t sit right, and neither did the off-handed joke she made about her first-marriage and it just being a practice run. I understood where she was coming from I guess, but it’s just so far from what I want for myself that it made me realize I couldn’t see myself pursuing fashion in the same manner she had. If something seemed like it would get in the way of that, I more than likely would not pursue it. With that said, that’s one of so many reasons why I’m glad I came to New York this semester, because it continues to help me figure out where I feel I fit in fashion and why my idea of what I’d like to do is so different from many of my peers. I think going forward, I just continue to learn more about myself through others and their journeys, and I’m so happy you’re all here along for the ride!

#studytournyc #nyc #newyorkcity #new york

Mr. Worldwide: Global Fashion Trends

Now that we’ve had enough time to attempt to digest as much of the Fashion Weeks worldwide as possible, let’s dish! There’s so much to mention, that I think I’ll make it a little easier on all of us and just give you the basics: one I’d love to try, one that’s just not for me, and my favorite show.

Time To Shine

(PC: http://wwd.com/fashion-news/fashion-features/gallery/the-5-biggest-spring-2018-fashion-trends-from-new-york-fashion-week-10989352/#!3/haute-denim-anoraks-four-split)

As a self-professed lover of denim, I am so glad to see that denim is not only seeing a lot of light for Spring 2018, but is a trend that’s also something we can dress up! I may or may not own at least 20 pairs of jeans currently (come through, Old Navy), so I’m really excited to start pairing my denim with dressier items I own like blouses or workwear. I’ve done this a few times in the past, but now that it’s hit runways, I’m just going to have to step up my game even more and you should too! This trend is one I think anyone can pull off because, who doesn’t own jeans? Ok, I guess some of us really own the athleisure trend and may live that activewear life with pride. But, if this isn’t you, then now you’ve got an easy way to make casual chic.

Just Not Mine

(PC: http://wwd.com/fashion-news/fashion-features/gallery/the-5-biggest-spring-2018-fashion-trends-from-new-york-fashion-week-10989352/#!1/americana-four-split)

Americana, a trend that we see pop-up every so-often, has come back fro Spring 2018. Now, I’d like to start by saying it’s a pretty sweet trend and I really like the vibe the subtle nod to whatever the heck American politics are lately, which is why it slightly surprises me that this trend has resurfaced. However, I’m a girl who usually wears red, white, and blue when its 4th of July and I can sing a big old happy birthday our country. Something about the mix of colors just doesn’t really happen in my closet, largely because I don’t own much red to begin with. I think the mix of colors can be done well and for some of you, you might be totally here for this! But this girl doesn’t own nearly enough red to make this happen...

Breast In Show

(PC: https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2018-ready-to-wear/helmut-lang/slideshow/collection#5)

It’s so hard to pick favorites, especially since I’d have to say my favorite was the Anna Sui show for Spring 2018 because I was lucky enough to help with and attend the show. However, since I’ve already indulged your fancy with those beauties, I’ll spice it up with something new! Helmut Lang Spring 2018 was insane and caught my attention right away! The collection largely focused on innovative ways to wear bras, whether it was misshapen or incomplete bras, those worn over clothes, or just hanging somewhere on the body... whichever way, I can’t get enough! I do find it funny since those of us who wear bras can’t wait to rip those suckers off at the end of the day, and here is an entire collection presenting provocative ways to wear these boob stranglers. However, I’m still really in awe of what’s been created and encourage you to take a look for yourself and explore one of the breast collection of the season ;)

#fashioninthemedia #helmutlang #trends #fashion

Strike A Pose: Vogue UK and US for October 2017

(PC: https://www.vogue.com/slideshow/annie-leibovitz-photographs-rooney-mara-vogue-october-issue-2017-slideshow#4)

(PC: http://www.vogue.co.uk/gallery/inside-october-vogue-zoe-kravitz-cover)

As one of the the top fashion magazines worldwide, Vogue dominates the industry in sharing its messages with people from all over. However, this isn’t necessarily done with just a single magazine, but magazines tailored to each country or region, hence how we come to Vogue and Vogue UK. Out of curiosity, I got my hands on a copy of each to compare and share with you what I’ve found!

Covergirl

No, we’re not talking about your favorite drugstore makeup brand, but the lovely ladies chosen to greet you at the newsstand. For October 2017, this is Zoe Kravitz for Vogue UK and Rooney Mara for Vogue. Take a look for yourself and then I’ll share my thoughts!

Vogue UK (http://www.vogue.co.uk/magazine/October-2017)

Vogue (https://www.vogue.com/article/rooney-mara-vogue-october-issue-2017-cover)

Alright now that we’re on the same page, let’s dig in. At first glance, there is an immediate difference in aesthetic. Vogue UK goes for an edgier feel with black and white as the main compliments to the red text and Kravitz’s complexion, enhanced by her laid-back pose, casual outfit, and very evident tattoos. The photo doesn’t look very staged in comparison to the dramatic flare we see in Vogue, with Rooney Mara dressed to the max with dark lips and styled hair, as well as a statement dress, and evident effort to create this mysterious scene of her on a lake, and on a boat no less. The two give off very different feelings this month, for Vogue UK of a more everyday girl and Vogue of the girl we wish we could be.

It’s What’s Inside That Counts

Content this month is pretty similar, and I think this is evident right from the cover. As with the typical set-up of Vogue, both have listed at least one trend for the season and a profile of the covergirl. The trends are pretty standard, must-have bags for Vogue UK and staple pieces for the season in Vogue. The profiles I think are handled pretty similarly, although I would say the type of profiles seem a bit different in terms of content. When looking at just the titles for those for Vogue UK. Other than this, the magazines’ contents are pretty similar.

Worth 1,000 Words

Of course, it wouldn’t be a magazine without incredible photos, and neither of these prints leaves us disappointed! Despite the differences in first-impressions of the aesthetic of each, a look inside reveals the imagery is quite similar. For the most part, compositions seem fairly simple overall and use one or two models with background that only enhances, rather than detracts, from attention to them. In some issues of Vogue, they go all out with the backgrounds and compositions and certainly this is present here, but it’s used much less in these two than in say a September issue. The imagery is eye-catching but not overdone.

So Extra

Obviously, our favorite part of magazines is the ads, right?? Ok, that was a total fib and I really hope you caught that, but they definitely reveal how the magazines perceive their audience and what they think will be provoking or interesting. The largest difference and what explains most of the differences is geography. For bigger fashion brands or companies with products featured, this doesn’t come into play because both countries have access to Versace or Chanel, for example. However, some brands don’t have stores in both the US and the UK so obviously these would be featured in the Vogue where they would be appropriate. As I said, other than this, the ads are pretty standard extra pages that sometimes catches your eye on the way between articles.

Sources: Print copies of Vogue and Vogue UK

#fashioninthemedia #vogue

I’ve found the one!

Okay, okay, no this isn’t about a significant other, but it’s about something almost as exciting as that... dream career confirmations! Let me explain: this summer, I came up with this idea to remodel an RV and start up a children’s wear business online that would travel the Midwest to sell these clothes during the summer months, visiting art fairs or just stopping where legal to reach all different kinds of markets. On Friday, we visited Caravan Style Studio and were blessed by the presence of Claudine DeSola, who is now basically my idol. Her mind for sustainability and business, as well as innovation and staying creative in a career that can be draining and overwhelming was so inspiring. And guess what she did before Caravan Style Studio, a place where celebrities and others can come for special events and get everything from hair to outfit done? She ran Caravan, an RV THAT TRAVELED AND SOLD CLOTHES? Boy, was this day made for asking her all kinds of questions about what I’d like to pursue. The visit really made me more sure of what I hope to do, and she also had some great ideas I hadn’t thought of that I’ll definitely keep in mind going forward, like reselling past collections’ garments that customers bring in for a discount on their next purchase. Genius! And resourceful... this woman really is my idol. I’m so fortunate to have met her, and keep in contact with her in the future!

#studytournyc #newyorkcity #nyc #new york

Five Days of Fabulous

Alright, I take all blame for that title being cheesy, but I bet it caught your eye! Good old alliteration... anyways onto what this is really about. The past 5 days have been jam-packed full of great stuff, and while this isn’t atypical for a week in the city, I thought I’d dish on some of the goodies! Even better, these goodies come in three flavors, so hopefully you find something you enjoy.

From Chipotle to Runway Bae

This beautiful girl is none other than Remington Williams, who was scouted for Marc Jacobs’ Spring 2018 show while working at Chipotle. As if Chipotle wasn’t already well-appreciated for it’s fine dining, apparently now its the gateway to a Chipotle addiction and a modeling career. This is something I would never think of, because I guess growing there were always those toddler model scouts at malls who would tell you your baby was beautiful to get you to buy $200 photoshoots. For most of us, that was probably the closest we came. Instead, this girl was working and probably wearing no makeup and had her hair in a baseball hat, potentially sweaty from the grills behind her and tired of informing every customer that yes, guac is extra, and it is in this state that she is picked to be a model? Guess there’s hope for us yet, even on the days we think are our worst.

( PC:https://www.popsugar.com/fashion/photo-gallery/44085171/image/44085173/Sies-Marjan )

Instagram Investigation: New Territories

Every week, I take it upon myself to head to a foodie’s dream that’s been hyped on Instagram, usually of the dessert assortment. Friday, I was lucky enough to indulge myself in a bubble waffle cone infused with rose petals and black tea from New Territories with honeycomb ice cream topped with rose petals and whipped cream with sprinkle sugar and a gingersnap. If your mouth isn’t absolutely watering now, I’m not really sure how to help you because this place was amazing! In addition to having several perfect opportunities for cute photos for all your social media, the staff were really friendly and the whole shop smelled like waffles. Yum! There were lots of options and you can customize everything from toppings to ice cream down to what’s in the actual waffle itself. I’d tell you more, but honestly I’d rather let you experience it like I did, with a picture that leaves you wanting to find out more for yourself! Of course, now you have my word that it is definitely worth the trip, which makes this picture much more compelling! Still unconvinced? Here’s the menu (http://www.newterritoriesnyc.com/). You’re welcome.

The Lady in Red Isn’t Just A Song

The older music lover in my couldn’t resist a throwback to the Chris De Burgh classic hit when I read that red is the color this autumn, as confirmed by WhoWhatWear (http://www.whowhatwear.com/top-nyfw-instagram-posts). I have definitely been seeing a lot of red around town, and even found myself purchasing a few more pieces of it lately. Whether it’s pops here and there with a scarf or bright pair of shoes, or a statement jacket in the slowly chilling weather, this week was definitely evidence that the colder weather is bringing warmer reds with it and I couldn’t be more excited! As someone who wears more than my fair share of black and white, red is really one of the easiest colors besides blue to incorporate into any wardrobe. Worn best especially with black and white, it can also be paired with denim and really any color, depending on the ensemble and how adventurous you’re feeling, or even as a standalone dress like our cheeky song mention. Regardless of how you show it off, don’t leave us wondering who the lady (or gentleman) in red is because it should be you!

A Trip to Trattoria Dell-Arte

More like Trattoria Dell-HEART! (Again, I recognize the cheese, but you’re just going to have to put up with it, for me.) This week was truly full of spoils and Friday was just one of the nights that included the delicious side of these ventures. With some vouchers in hand, my adventure buddy and I headed out on the town and discovered this amazing restaurant and we both can’t wait to visit again. In addition to really interesting decor focused around different body parts including what the host called the “breast view in town” (I’m sure you can imagine what it may have been), the food was absolutely mouth-watering. This beauty below me, their Chicken Milanese, was larger than my face and as soon as it arrived, I couldn’t wait to dig in! The crispy crust on the chicken is just right and it’s been pounded out to a nice, thin texture that somehow makes chicken light yet filling? I’m not sure what kind of magic they use in that kitchen, but I’d be more than happy to be back under their spell. If you’re in the neighborhood, give them a visit!

Trend Report: Whatever You’re Wearing, It Goes with Sneakers

May I just say how relieved I am to have noticed this beauty coming to life? Sneakers are my live-in shoes, and with the incredible popularity of Adidas Superstars the past few years, it’s one of the more practical trends we’ve seen come through fashion lately. I’ve definitely seen it across any number of interpretations too, as shown in the variety of photos below. Whether its metallic dress shoes with a sneaker platform, athletic running shoes, or vans slip-ons, there’s something here for everyone. The past 5 days, and pretty much since I’ve been here, it’s been hard to miss this trend. Comfy, casual, and easy to dress, I really can’t seen many arguments against adopting it into your own wardrobe, especially because you probably already own this staple. This also supports the whole athleisure trend of the decade so it only makes sense, especially in town like NYC where everyone is on the go and walking is more popular than driving let alone owning a car.

#fashion #newyorkcity #nyc #new york #trend #fashioninthemedia

A wonderland of zippers and kitties: Visiting AGH Trim and Create-A-Marker

My friends, let me tell you... this past week was so great! Class this time took us first to AGH Trim, which is one of the leading trim suppliers in the US and also has their own manufacturer that we got to meet as well who showed us how different trims are made and what the machines look like that make them. We also got a presentation on the different kinds of things AGH makes and it was everything from underwire for bras to good old YKK zippers. After that, we headed to Create-A-Marker that grades patterns and makes markers for lots of different brands and companies. In case you’re not spending your life away at fashion school like me and learned what that meant (which it’s totally ok if you don’t know!), grading is the scaling of patterns to different sizes and markers are blocks of patterns put together like puzzle pieces to make the most of the fabric. The business also has a company kitty that made the presentations even more enjoyable, especially when she thought it was high time she showed us around herself and rolled on some of the patterns. Outside of the little floof tour, it was really cool to see processes that had previously only been explained to us in action! From both of these tours, I got to see sides of the fashion and garment industry that most of us don’t typically think about. I think it definitely showed me a lot more options of different prospective jobs and learning for, if I want my own brand, what even more of the components are that go into making it successful. Until next times, my dudes!

#nyc #newyorkcity #newyork #fashion

Trending Blogs

Recently Viewed Blogs

conocu