Androgynous In Athleisure: Ready to Play?
Androgynous In Athleisure: Ready to Play? We are purposefully styling these athletic elements to wear them all day, making our outfits more functional and making us ready to play. The fashion world has seen a steady, increased influence of athleisure since the 80s. What started with baggy tracksuits evolved into Princess Diana’s iconic crew necks and biker shorts, and has now turned into athletic wear that allows you to blur the lines of gender in your day to day looks. In the last year, I’m sure we have all looked down at some point and noticed the sea of Adidas Sambas or New Balance “dad” sneakers among us. These subtle additions of athleisure, easily add the perfect masculine edge to any outfit. Pair them with an ultra feminine dress or skirt, and you have an immediately more intriguing look. While seeing those notorious three stripes walk past you multiple times a day might seem like an over-saturated trend, they have risen to popularity for a reason. Jersey tops have also been caught up by mainstream fashion trends, as a unique piece of clothing that adds an effortlessly cool essence to an otherwise basic look. A boxy jersey paired with a chic pair of oversized glasses, baggy jeans and ballet flats has been an outfit formula frequently replicated by fashion influencers. Adding athletic elements to feminine, or more simple outfits adds a playful element. What sets athleisure in 2024 apart from that in the 80s/90s is that we aren’t just being seen in sportswear to and from workouts. We are purposefully styling these elements to wear all day, making our outfits more functional and making us ready to play. In addition to outright athletic wear and materials like mesh, nylon, and polyester, plaid and striped patterns have also been making appearances in recent trend cycles. With fall around the corner, there will undoubtedly be an influx in striped clothing elements, might as well beat the trend and pair them with the stripes on your Adidas’. Button downs, chunky stripes, and anything plaid are all collegiate elements that pair seamlessly with athleisure. Not only do these pops of leisurewear add a playful element to daily outfits, but they add edge and functionality. Next time you’re getting ready, don’t fear looking underdressed or too casual, there are ways to incorporate athleisure that look purposeful and add an unexpected chic flair to your look. Clothing Items borrowed from Ap0cene: –Human Wear Solutions, Oversized White Button down –Lorem Ipsum, Incision Tie –Briar Will, Denim tracksuit pants –Crippledmnd, Tartan Skirt –Feaath, Polo Mini Dress –Deniz, French Terry Duffle Bag
If Looks Could Kill: Why the Generation that Preaches Body Positivity is Bringing Back Heroin Chic
If Looks Could Kill: Why the Generation that Preaches Body Positivity is Bringing Back Heroin Chic Generation Z (those born between 1997-2012) have been a powerful voice in the realm of body positivity; urging individuals to love and accept their bodies and demanding the fashion industry to diversify model body types and expand size ranges in clothing. So why is the rail thin emaciated look of the 90’s being brought back to the spotlight? Amongst the craze for Ozempic, coke, and diet culture, our generation is once again romanticizing a deadly aesthetic. This isn’t the first time unhealthy body ideals have been re-sensationalized. Look back to the 2010’s Tumblr era and the plethora of eating disorder-promoting media that was circulating. Or look at the Kardashians, who will risk life-threatening procedures like BBLs and liposuction to dramatically alter their bodies as trends shift. The high fashion scene of the 1990’s birthed the aesthetic we call “Heroin Chic”- characterized by models with gaunt frames and sallow faces, adorned with dark smudged eyeshadow. The Heroin Chic model was typically associated with a lifestyle of partying and illicit drug use. Supermodels of the era seemed to all have this look, from the poster girl Kate Moss to Jaime King to Gia Carangi from whom the term originated. Young women idolized this image as they flipped through the pages of Vogue, leading to a massive spike in eating disorders from 1990 to 1998. The Heroin Chic obsession began to dwindle at the turn of the century, however excessive thinness continued to be prevalent on the runway and in print. Flash forward to the 2020’s, Generation Z have typically been outspoken about retiring old-fashioned and unhealthy body standards, and have often been credited with “inventing” the body positivity movement. Unfortunately, social media platforms (primarily TikTok) have become the champions of breeding extreme trends like the carnivore diet and toxic body shaming workout content. Additionally, the sensationalizing of weight loss drugs like Ozempic or other substances like cocaine have skyrocketed due to this generation’s adoration for influencers and musicians like Charlie XCX. The culmination of all of these obsessions have led young people to once again idolize the jutting collarbones and Tim Burton-esque faces that were worshiped in the 90’s. When it comes down to it, body types should not be “trending”- let’s leave that to the clothes. The drugs, disorders, and surgeries required to “keep up” with society’s ever-changing ideal body are not sustainable and are beyond dangerous. So why did we switch up? And where do we go from here? Prevalence of Eating Disorders by Age. Our World in Data. Retrieved November 14, 2022, from https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/prevalence-of-eating-disorders-by-age?country=~USA https://images.app.goo.gl/Eojtgc2xCfPj54aK9
Saying Hello To Spring
Saying Hello To Spring As the cold gloomy cover of winter slowly dwindles away, Spring’s soft touch is drifting in. While we take time to either reminisce on our ultra-layered cold weather looks, or happily packaway our bulky coats, Spring is working overtime to bring vibrance back to our world. The least we could do is bring the same to our wardrobes. Springtime shows us that all can be reborn again, it reminds us how much life the world has to give. As the days turn warmer, and the sun washes the world in yellow once again, the opportunities to rediscover our style are endless. While mother nature is busy bringing reblooming nature, we can plant new seeds within our closets to help our personal style grow. This Spring show off your ultra feminine pieces, or that one dress that looks straight out of ‘Pride And Prejudice’. Lace, declotage, and vintage nightgowns are some key elements that we will be seeing this season. Sofia Coppola films like ‘The Virgin Suicides’, or ‘Marie Antoinette’, exude the essence of spring, and they are huge inspirations for this Springs’ fashion. This season, focus on taking life slowly, touching grass in the literal sense, and maybe switch out your Spring cleaning for some Spring thrifting. Nature is thriving with abundance, it’s only natural for our closets to follow suit!
RCF’s guide to Roadtripping: Vintage and Secondhand in VA
RCF’s guide to Roadtripping: Vintage and Secondhand in VA Whether you’re Thelma and Louise or Bonnie and Clyde, take Virginia’s scenic byways by storm with our personal guide to a killer (pun intended) roadtrip. “Growing up I would always listen to my dad’s 70s music. And growing up as a Mexican on the west coast, there’s always been a slight western influence that came from my older family members- like bowleros, lots of denim, cowboy boots, hats, etc.,” said Creative Director Carolina Gomez. Western Americana and the sense of exploration radiate from the photographs captured in the greenery of Barker Fields. With 70’s influence, models lounge in brown corduroy flares and lots and lots of crochet. Freedom and discovery are the essence of the road trip. With a car and a roadmap, discover the hidden boutiques and flea markets Virginia has to offer. With the edgy Saturn Return and Boho to Go, Richmond itself is bursting at the seams with vintage and second hand stores. Moving outside of River City, stroll through the Hillsville Flea Market on their enormous Memorial day and Labor day weekend markets or go to Verona and check out Factory Antiques, the biggest antique mall in America. Global Threadz & Thriftz, located in Fredericksburg, is a hidden gem of high quality curated vintage. Finally, peruse Vintage Mirage in Alexandria, which is a treasure trove of nostalgic pieces. Grab your partners in crime, a stack of iconic CDs and a suitcase of marvelously mysterious attire- leaving room of course for what you pick up along the course of your travels. Photographed by Summer Deciucis Modeled by Carolina Granja, Caera Harrison, Jaylyn Johnson, Lealani Vila & Luke Wilder Creative Direction: Carolina Gomez Creative Team: Alyssa Carman and Kristina Wise
Far Out in the 60s
Far Out In The Sixties Vibrant and bold colors, silhouettes that catch the eye seemingly without trying, and patterns that make you question what time period you’re really in – these are all aspects of the infamous 1960s Mod Fashion. A bright sunny day in Richmond was nothing short of ideal for the shoot – the blue sky posed as an accessory in the perfect blue hue for this era. It’s ironic though, considering the birth of Mod fashion was in London, a city commonly known for its rainy weather. The Start of “Mod” 60s Mod Fashion can be described as a revolution that originated in London, driven by the youth. Mod, an abbreviation from “Modernist”, was coined in the 1950s. Despite the fashion, it’s associated with having its moment the following decade. During the tumultuous decade, politics were changing, young people wanted to be seen and be able to express themselves in a new way, and they were attempting to free themselves of the traditional expectations from previous generations. What better way to express a change of attitude than with fashion? Instead of muted and pale tones that were seen in the 50s, bright colors and bold patterns were making their way onto the scene. Infamous Trailblazers A trailblazer of the time and of the whole Mod fashion insurgence is none other than Mary Quant. She opened up a boutique in Chelsea in 1955, shortly after this would be the birth of the “London Look”. Her simple designs of A-line style dresses, in shorter lengths than had been seen before and in brighter colors, were soon everywhere. She styled these dresses with colored tights as well, another fashion piece that was introduced in the 60s, saying goodbye to stockings and garters. Other designers that are contributors similar to Quant in the Mod Fashion scene are Barbara Hulanicki, Pierre Cardin, Marion Foale and Sally Tuffin, as well as André Courrèges, and Michael Fish. A Closer Look At Styling For this shoot, we had the privilege of styling the models with a local business – Bygones. A vintage clothing store located in the heart of Carytown. The internal setup of Bygones is something similar to a fashion lover’s dream – vintage pieces separated by the decade lining the walls. Each piece chosen takes us back in time to the far out 60s. Each one is paired with the necessities for a Mod look: tights, sunglasses or belts, and effortlessly cool hairstyles and makeup looks. As the warm spring weather makes a staggering entrance this season, there is no doubt the trends of the 60s will be sneaking into our closets. Embrace all the funky accessories, asymmetrical silhouettes, colored tights and the fun that comes with the styles of decade known for peace, love, and rock and roll. Contributors: Creative Director: Carolina GomezJunior Creative Director: Alyssa CarmanPhotoset Assistant/Outreach: Kristina Wise Photography: Summer Deciucis and Carolina Gomez Makeup & Hair: Amaris Bowers, Summer DeciucisModels: Jaylyn Johnson, Julia Sweeney, Ella Crowe, Grace Blair
Trend Tuesday: Leopard Print
Trend Tuesday: Leopard Print This week we’re highlighting the never-ending phenomenon of animal print, specifically, leopard. Critics and lovers of the iconic pattern have argued throughout the decades whether or not leopard deserves to come back into cycle season after season. We’re here to say it rightfully deserves its place in fashion, and it’s something we’re excited to see even more of as the years go on. While cheetah and leopard are commonly grouped together and sometimes confused, this week’s Trend Tuesday aims to highlight leopard print and how it’s been worn throughout fashion history. In more recent times, leopard print has been seen everywhere. From the runway to trending sneakers, wallpapers and room decor, makeup looks and haircuts, handbags and tights, it’s guaranteed to be everywhere. Is there such a thing as too much? Or could there never be enough? A Brief Overview of Leopard Throughout the Years “If you are fair and sweet, don’t wear it.” – Christian Dior Animal prints have been worn and imitated long before fashion designers and runways became a thing. One of the most noted examples of this is Seshat, the Egyptian goddess of wisdom who is frequently depicted wearing a leopard skin dress. Many kings and queens from ancient times would wear leopard print skins because of its powerful meaning. It signifies power and wealth, which stems from the fierce animals themselves, as well as who the print was available to. In regards to the runway, leopard print first debuted in Christian Dior’s “New Look” collection in 1947. Christian Dior’s “New Look” leopard-print dress Leopard print carried on its exclusive and powerful reputation throughout the mid 1900s. Only the elite were spotted wearing it. Some even went as far as to purchase actual leopards, cheetahs, and jaguars to walk on leashes. Throughout the 50s and 60s, leopard print became even bigger, specifically for rich wives who sported it through their fur coats. Jackie Kennedy’s extravagant ensembles pushed leopard print even more into the public eye, in turn also amping up the movement for animal rights. In 1968, designer Rudi Gernreich had launched a collection entirely made of faux animal print designs. It was a turning point that showed leopard print was here to stay and that the empowerment of the print still carried onto faux fabrics, leaving the animals themselves alone. Christian Dior 1969 By the time the 1970s rolled around, leopard print had made its rounds through the fashion world and it was more easily accessible. It was around this time that leopard print was seen as tacky and trashy, and this distinction it earned so long ago still follows it to this day. It became huge in the punk-rock and nightlife scene, earning a seductive reputation. Rod Stewart 1973 The 80s and 90s were a turning point in animal print in fashion, and fashion in general. It was more acceptable to wear things that were out there, specifically in the music scene and nightlife backgrounds. Some designers attempted to reclaim and re-elevate leopard print on the runway, Gianni Versace in the 90s is a prime example of this. While some were trying to make it exclusive again, a bigger group of people were taking leopard print to a different level and making it even more punk and rebellious than before; Kurt Cobain is another example of this. Gianni Versace 1990 The 2000s through the present has seen many different ways of wearing leopard print as well as mixed opinions on it. The print was huge in the early 2000s and it was shown on everything from items of clothing to any and all accessories. In neon and bright colors and in different silhouettes than had been seen before, the early 2000s were something completely unique in the fashion world. As the timeline nears closer to the 2020s, leopard print has been seen on the runway numerous times. It’s now something that is worn by everyone. Its reputation still lingers and there are still mixed reactions to bold animal print pieces, but if we’ve learned anything from fashion history and the cycles it goes through – it’s to wear what you like, when you like it. Trends come and go, and everything within the fashion realm is subjective. What is trashy and too bold to one person can be chic and classy to another. Leopards are fierce, powerful, and courageous. Next time you pick out a leopard print piece, remember that you are too!
Tales Of The Rockstar Girlfriend
Tales Of The Rockstar Girlfriend Smokey makeup, effortless charisma and grunge fashion are just some of the reasons everyone wants to harness the look of the rockstar girlfriend. All aspects of this style are alluring; it’s the older, cooler sister of the hyper feminine 2000s aesthetic, which is also making a comeback. But is it a bad name for a good trend? The title immediately places the girlfriend as an accessory to her rockstar counterpart, attributing all aspects of her look to the support of her partner. The entire trope of this aesthetic is how cool the girlfriend looks at rehearsals, during concerts, and even at after parties. None of this includes the partner, so why bother including them? The rockstar (girlfriend) has all the traits of an it-girl. She is effortlessly cool with an easy-going personality, a knack for lighting up the room, and the grungiest closet around. But where did this trend come from? With fashion being evolutionary, not revolutionary, this trend is not new. The rockstar girlfriend look is almost synonymous to the punk revolution of the 1970s, fueled by style icon Vivienne Westwood. The punk movement was catalyzed by the prolonged decline in the socioeconomic status of 1970s Britain. Increased unemployment, lack of opportunities, and an overall loss of motivation in younger generations caused the punk subculture to express their disdain in society and their rejection of the social norm through their fashion. Punk music also evolved as a result, with the birth of bands such as The Clash, and more importantly female-led punk groups like The Runaways and The Raincoats. While the rockstar aesthetic of 2024 is very subdued in comparison to that of the 70s, the reasoning for both revolutions are nearly identical. The current socioeconomic status of the world is a direct reflection of what they were facing 50 years ago. Additionally with increased focus on and overconsumption of the “clean girl” aesthetic, it makes sense why a movement with so much personality is reclaiming popularity. No matter the reasoning, the rockstar girlfriend trend has made impressive strides in assuming a top spot among popular aesthetics. We know her, we love her, and a lot of us want to be her. But what if the girlfriend just wants to be the rockstar? Female rock icons like Joan Jett, Stevie Nicks, Patti Smith, and Deborah Harry all are proof that you don’t need to be the girlfriend of a rockstar to encompass this aesthetic. To all the lovers of the rockstar girlfriend aesthetic, don’t be afraid to be the rockstar.