Women’s HERstory Month: On the Basis of Style
Story by: Aayesha PoudelPhotos by: Dalvida Palmer Imagine being a female graduate from a top tier law school during a time where the career field is completely dominated by men. Imagine majority of employers are reluctant to hire you because they believe that women are too weak, maternal or generally incapable. Now imagine, you are told that women who are intelligent and career driven come off as too intimidating and therefore un-likeable. This was life for Ruth Bader Ginsburg in the late 1950’s. Ruth Bader Ginsburg broke glass ceilings for American women throughout her career. But she didn’t do so without facing tremendous struggle in order to eventually earn her position as Supreme Court Justice. Ginsburg finished top of her class at Columbia Law School in 1959. After graduating, she spent some time in her career as a professor at Rutgers University. Following this, Ginsburg worked for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) as a volunteer lawyer and furthered her career advocating for gender equality. From there, she helped repeal laws that striped the freedom of women across the country. She was then appointed to the U.S Court of Appeals for the D.C Circuit by President Carter, and continued the rest of her career in law as Supreme Court Justice where she remains today. Ginsburg spent her entire career fighting for women’s rights. To this day, she continues to have millions of admirers which led to two movies that recently came out about her career: RBG Documentary and On the Basis of Sex. To ensure that everything from the story-line to the wardrobe was RBG approved, Ginsburg played a critical role in supervising the movie On the Basis of Sex because she wanted to help preserve the authenticity of the story. Ginsburg wore a lot of chic patterns, so we started the outfit with a cheetah print top. Then, we wanted to use the color green as another major piece to the outfit because that was a color that RBG wore a few times throughout the movie. It is also a color that can symbolize ambition. Many of the outfits RBG wore in the movie were very bright and colorful, therefore we paired the green pants with a mustard yellow bow and green and yellow earrings. RBG’s hair was styled with bows and headscarves quite a few times, so it was a great match for the outfit. So channel one of our favorite SHEroes today! Stylist: Aayesha Poudel Model: Eve Mclernon
Women’s HerStory Month: We Copied Rihanna’s Cool Girl Street Style
Story by: Aayesha PoudelPhotos by: Dalvida PalmerWorld renowned musician, actress, fashion icon, philanthropist, and entrepreneur. Rihanna or “Ri-Ri” encompassed all of these roles in her career in the public eye. Rihanna rose to fame as one of the most celebrated musicians of the 21st century. Currently, Rihanna is the third most awarded female artist in history, earning her first Grammy Award for her hit song Umbrella. Alongside this, she’s been in movies such as Ocean’s 8 and has been a cover-girl for numerous magazines and brands. But recently, she’s challenged the beauty industry to create more makeup products that are inclusive to all women of color with her line, Fenty Beauty. For years, makeup companies have offered a very minimal selection of foundation shades for their consumers. To make matters worse, most of these companies create an even more limited range of shades for women with darker skin tones. For most companies, it’s not a matter of if they can offer more colors, but really if they care enough to. Fenty beauty pioneered the industry with the focus of offering over 40 foundation colors from their launch. Not surprisingly, this created a ripple effect where companies such as Cover FX, Cover Girl, and Revlon created their own inclusive foundation lines. In just the launch of Fenty Beauty, Rihanna challenged the beauty industry to include more women of color. Rihanna diversified her career in order to break barriers in both her personal businesses and the entertainment industry. But something else that Rihanna has always stood out on is her sense of style. RCFU was inspired by her daring, now iconic street style, and put together some looks to pay tribute to the Bag Gal herself. In the first outfit, our model wears camouflage pants with a grey tube top and a blue-orange color block puffer jacket. For her accessories, she pairs the outfit with white chunky dad shoes and some rad sunglasses. For her second outfit, the model wears a graphic t-shirt of the band Kiss which is paired with a grey camouflage jacket, black sweatpants and white chunky dad shoes. This time for her sunglasses, she wears neon blue sport sunglasses. Both of the looks resonate with Rihanna’s personal style. She wears a lot of streetwear trends with bright colors, and is never afraid to go above and beyond with her style. Her style is very reflective of her personality and work. Rihanna is often seen as an unapologetic woman who is expressive and optimistic. She pushes boundaries, and this is often shown in her music and her brand Fenty Beauty along with in her personal style. The queen of music, makeup and fashion- Ri-Ri continues to prove that she can conquer just about anything. Stylist: Jerrell FuntilaModel: Malanee Erenna
That 70’s Shoot with Tori
Photography by: Kylie NewcombVideography by: Brandon MoralesCreative Director: Dom_Khun Tori Radday lives in her own 70’s daze with a combination of vintage and chic. Check out this eccentric series styled by Richmond stylists and blogger, Tori Radday. Here is where you can find Tori Radday: Check out her instagram: @toriraddayCheck out her depop page: @toriradday Models: Aayesha PoudelAliviah JonesJade KoumtakounFelicia Lam
Headassery at its Finest
Story by Anna Debald Creative Direction and Photos by Dom Khun “Just a word we use when someone says does something unbelievable or unreal and you ‘gotta call them out for it.” “It’s, like, a way to describe your friends when they are being one of three things: hilarious, ridiculous or obnoxious.” “Ya know. It’s when your friends are being dumb stupid and a geek.” These are three examples of definitions I received when I asked my friends what the word “headass” meant. Moving from Philadelphia to Richmond last year brought a lot of changes to my life, but one that I hadn’t anticipated to stand out was the slang people use. (I heard “y’all” and “I’m hip” more in one month than I had in my entire life living in Philly.) Within the first week I moved here I was called a “headass.” At first, I was offended. However, after living in Richmond for over a year, I’m actually flattered. I now know it was a way to compliment my goofy, sometimes out of the ordinary behavior. This is a great way to describe what Zak Goldwasser has achieved with his brand, Headass Co. Picture this! It’s a rainy day in Richmond. Goldwasser puts earphones in and eats a sandwich. He listens to the motivational speaker, Lisa Nichols talk on the topic of overcoming obstacles. He is motivated and fired up for the day. He looks to his desk and glares at the pencil and the eraser on its end. He grabs a pen. No time for sketching or rearranging. The pen gracefully skims the paper. Three mouths, four eyes, two noses and three legs later, the idea Goldwasser had for Salty Dan on a hoodie comes to life on paper. Goldwasser began drawing the designs you see on his apparel today when he was in high school. After randomly choosing margins from papers his teachers handed out to sketch in, he realized people really enjoyed his spontaneous drawings. Today, his drawings come to life through his clothing brand. “A random shower thought” became a design a few minutes later. Straight to pen and paper he goes. No planning. No second guessing. Headass Co.’s designs reflect this aspect of his creative process. The product designs consist of characters with several heads, eyes, mouths and joints emerging from figures fashioned within his creative realm. They are cleanly drawn, but the characters are grungy and imaginary. Their expressions are unamused, but also goofy. Most of them have been assigned a name, like Salty Dan, Krangaroo Johnathan and Sparktopus. Each suggesting an other worldly curiousness. But where does all this inspiration come from? What Goldwasser realized by the time he finished college was that his margin drawings would be far more interesting than working a nine to five office job. Therefore, his main inspiration stems from his desire to free not only himself, but those who encounter the brand. He set himself free from a mundane life and took a career path that most do not have the chance to, nor the courage to. He wanted to end the stigma that declares that one must settle for an ordinary job to be successful and therefore, happy. That is why Headass Co. has attracted such a wide variety of individuals. Skaters, rappers, and people who just seek out different are typical customers. The brand does not offer traditional patterns. The designs are broken up. Each shirt utilizes one bold image that either chaotically fills the entire shirt or one that stands alone. Through these unique designs, Headass Co. welcomes a diverse group of people who detest the boring and appreciate hand-drawn innovation. The brand is now moving in the direction of new media. Goldwasser constantly uploads graphics and animations he creates to their Instagram. Their website also features thirty second short films he has produced. Each incorporates the imaginative, peculiar characters featured on the brand’s apparel. One that stands out is titled “Rick and Morty Headassified.” They have also recently made the front page of Reddit, thanks to Goldwasser’s work. This is definitely going to be something to look out for on the internet. His animations and shorts are what I imagine if Rick and Morty and BigMouth combined, but even better and newer. And what is ever more rad is the fact that you can wear merchandise that incorporates the same ideas from the shorts! If you aren’t hip to Headass Co., I would change that ASAP! (Look at me, a northerner, saying “hip” and “headass” in the same sentence.) Trust me–It is a whole lot of headassery that you don’t want to to miss out on.
Trend Story: Neon or Nothing
Story by Estelle Avebuere Photos by Celeste Chaves The Fall/Winter 2018 runways were full of fabulous trends to inspire our looks this season. Since we are well into fall now, there is no time to waste in trying something a little different. Our spotlight trend right now is neon. Neon, alongside the 80’s trend, was seen in most major designer lines this fall, so we know this trend is not likely to go away anytime soon. At first thought, the idea of wearing neon on a regular basis seems a bit overwhelming, but we’re ready to help break it down. We have three simple looks showing different ways to incorporate color- in the brightest sense of the word- into your wardrobe this fall. #1: A POP OF NEON No need to go crazy with the brights when rushing to an 8:00 a.m. class or meeting, right? Right. Just thrown on a pop of electric color to wake yourself up (in addition to your morning coffee, obviously), and prepare to conquer the day. #2: NEON ACCESSORIES + NEUTRAL OUTFIT Similar to adding a pop of neon, this look is about throwing on a neon accessory or two for a unique spin to your usual all-black or all-neutral look. Additionally, it’s getting chilly so it’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on bright (neon!) scarves and hats. #3: NEON ALL THE WAY The most important accessory for this look is confidence. So long as you feel good in your head-to-toe brights, you’re sure to brighten someone else’s day and look good in the process. No ifs, ands, or buts. Live your Carrie Bradshaw dreams and go all out with the neon! Fall leads to winter, and before you know it, the year has gone by just like that. It’s never too late to add “Try the neon trend” to your New Year’s resolutions of 2018, right? Don’t let the year end without you stepping out of your comfort zone. If that means trying a bit of neon, we dare you to take the plunge.
What’s LUV Got to Do with It?
[tribulant_slideshow post_id=”5889″] Story by: Annie Miller Photos by: Stanley Tran When you think of ‘90s fashion, which sneaker comes to mind? This is the exact question Jair Barbour asked herself when customizing the dressing room in her startup shop, UNLUVD Boutique. “I thought, how about we make it a shoebox?” says Barbour, explaining the bright blue, box-shaped fitting room with the iconic three white stripes slapped across the door. “I wanted my store to be more than just white walls and endless rows of clothing racks. I wanted to stand out.” As a Richmond native, Jair Barbour attended college at Virginia State University, pursuing a career in psychology. All the while, and with a growing closet overflow, she collected an inventory of never-been-worn and hardly-ever-worn apparel, selling it all out of her garage through EBay. “It started with Michael Kors bags and that lead into everything else,” says Barbour, showing us the perfect example of classic consumerism- buying things we think we want but end up rarely ever using. While it may be just a “girl thing”, Jair Barbour took it up few notches turning “it’s just a girl” thing into an, “it’s just the dopest shop in Richmond” thing. UNLUVD boutique opened for business this September 2018, right on time for the fall return of Virginia Commonwealth University students. Located at 701 West Cary Street next to Monroe Park in the heart of campus, the boutique provides the broadest variety of clothing, easy to satisfy the tremendous melting pot of style and personality throughout the VCU student population. While maintaining a constant inflow of unique and exciting retail, customers are offered a vast array of merchandise stretching from today’s modern market all the way back in time to the most one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, planting the ultimate theme for the store’s retro roots. UNLUVD Boutique digs up some truly extraordinary old-school garments, reviving the funkiest forgotten styles and brands from the streetwear-centered age of hip-hop and Michael Jordan. Classic tee’s and hoodies, leather jackets, neons, metallics, distressed denim, fresh sneakers, vintage watches and bags- I’m all there. A trip to UNLUVD Boutique and you’re guaranteed to walk out, arms heavy. Barbour has done much more than create a simple shop-around store; rather, she has produced the ultimate customer experience, expressing an explosive compilation of culture with the most heightened sense of creativity. UNLUVD evokes intense ‘90s nostalgia, everywhere from the pink painted walls lined with neon lights and splattered graffiti to aesthetic additions of gold chain balloons, Fresh Prince and Tupac portraits, old pay-phones, stereos, TVs, and even a basketball hoop. That’s not to mention the subway themed bathroom, Nintendo gaming system (for customers to play while shopping), photobooth, and let’s not forget the Adidas shoebox fitting room. Enter the boutique only to find a metal gate door leading you into the shopping section; which as explained by Barbour, was inspiration pulled from their first summer weeks exposed to the Gladding Residence Center and Monroe Park construction. With all that said we still have only scratched the surface of UNLUVD Boutique’s depth and design, and for those who have never been, it will surely exceed your expectations. So especially as such a quaint start-up shop, why put so much investment into all this extra stuff? “I want my store to be a place where people feel comfortable to come in, shop, take pictures, and hang out,” expresses Barbour, her tone reflecting her chill, genuine personality. Barbour emphasizes how much she already admires the loyalty of VCU students to their campus businesses. Appealing to and developing relationships with the locals is her utmost goal seeing the future of UNLUVD play forward. A lot of talk about teamwork came into our conversation, as she stressed the importance of people in the fashion industry, and all in general, working together in order to achieve success and make an impact. Aside from all the fun, she also purposes her store as a stage to help promote all brands and designers, including small local ones, in hopes of boosting every business and helping them to thrive. “That’s what I think I love most about the nineties,” Barbour explains. “There was a stronger sense of unity and togetherness. Everything was family oriented and themed around teamwork. I want my store to be a place where anyone can come in and feel welcome to do their thing.” What I find most fascinating about today’s generation is our infatuation with the past and times that never belonged to us. I never experienced the 1990’s as Jair Barbour and others before me were able to, yet I still felt overwhelming contentment and sentimentality when treading through her whimsical wonderland of a shop. With passion and intentions so bold and pure, this boutique has given me an optimistic outlook on the future of fashion and its evolving industry, as creative naturals like Jair Barbour are surely essential in improving its direction. For a shop called UNLUVD, they sure have a lot of love to give. So take a break today, head over to this red-hot spot, and dive into a different decade. Bring your friends, shop around, play some games, and take some photos! Their door is always open. Models: Ayanna McKie, Celeste Chaves,Nick Reardon Stylists: Anna DeBald, Daniela Osuna Fashion Editor: Aayesha Poudel Editor in Chief: Jacynth Serrano Rodriguez
RVAFW Runway Show
Story by Estelle Avbuere Photos by Trysten Evans If there was ever a question of whether high-quality style and creativity can be found in Richmond, the RVA Fashion Week Runway Show gave us confirmation as each model walked the runways in incredible designs and left us all in awe. Consider that question answered. The City Hall Observation Deck lent a beautiful background for the stylish event, with a stunning view of the sunset over the city. Even before the show began, the room was a hub of style. Everyone was dressed for the occasion, eating, drinking, posing for pictures, chatting with old friends, and eagerly meeting new people – all under the glow of the Deck’s soft red lights. This was the perfect time to check out the vendors – local brands and designers with unique creations, ranging from handmade jewelry to Ankara-fabric-covered earmuffs. By the time we were done gushing over the vendor’s designs and taking selfies, it was time for the show to begin. With each line, model, and look, Richmond proved itself home to creatives who aren’t afraid to translate their personal experiences through their designs, challenge societal standards, and pave their own way in the world of fashion. So let’s break it down, shall we? Creation Lords This brand kicked off the show with a sleek, red mens’ tracksuit, with the brand name on the back, that perfectly embodies street style today. The rest of the line includes pieces in bold colors and prints, like a pink camouflage t-shirt and neon tie-dye hoodies and tees. Trust Creation Lords to help you stand out in relaxed, sleek, street style. Reign With looks described as “vintage” and military”, this brand has a unique, African flavor. The models walked confidently in structured two-piece sets, pants with exaggerated hips, and bright yellows. The military inspiration was clear in the army green colors and black military berets, and one confident model saluting at the end of the runway. This brand did not come to play; they came to Reign. Abydis Clothing This line included women in various sizes and ages and reflected a mod 60’s feel. The collection has a unity to it, made clear as the models walked to Ella Mai’s “Boo’d Up” at the end and the rich royal blues, greens, lilacs, and whites flooded the stage. The pieces themselves, complete with unique, asymmetrical necklines, slitted hems, and color-blocking, are modern, bold, and classic. Andrew Wolf Wolf embraced his first time debuting his collection by highlighting the fact that his work is still in process as each look had a piece with “Prototype” written on it. The pieces were are chic, casual, and neutral-toned with long, open sweaters and sweatshirts. These pieces would make easy, street-style outfits work well for the fall. For the man who is relaxed and stylish – and still in process – Andrew Wolf is the brand to watch. Destiny Howard “Ethereal Madness“ is a collection full of flowy fabrics, rich purples and pinks, and classic black and white pieces. The elegant looks were often completed with gold sequin detailing or silver necklaces. The models walked smoothly, their dresses flowing along with them, drawing you into Destiny Howard’s truly elegant and ethereal style story. Able by Amanda Campbell “Destroy Discomfort” takes old pieces that reflect the designer’s past struggle with an eating disorder and reconstructs them into inspiring clothes. The collection represents this contrast of strength and vulnerability in dark denim contrasted with wine and pink fabrics. This is for the woman who knows she is able to overcome and dresses like it too. Victim 15 by Shareef “Time Will Tell” is, in the words of the designer himself, “avante-garde, futuristic style”. This menswear line reflected that with its clean silhouettes and unique touches like fur, sheer sleeves, and silver pieces that added the futuristic feel. This brand is designing the streetwear of the future that is now, and we don’t need time to tell us that we already love it! India Laposh India Laposh’s line is inspired by her late father, whose love for Nascar models clearly influenced the collection. The line is elegant, sleek, and feels slightly “upscale New York”. In every way, from the bold colors, lacey accents, and unique silhouettes to the upbeat EDM music, this line is for the classy, daring, and hopeful. LoyWithLove Loy, the Ugandan creative behind this brand, wanted her collection to embody one aspect central to humanity: love. The line features romantic, feminine silhouettes, silky fabrics, and polka dotted and floral prints. The pieces were both easy to move in and easy to fall in love with. Blas Couture This collection, inspired by the theme of an “alien invasion”, features iridescent and sheer fabrics, psychedelic colors, silver sequins, and pops of neon. There is also a theme of royalty, highlighted by capes and extravagant headpieces. All this made for a truly other-worldly fashion experience. Iconic 7 Iconic 7’s motto is that “every woman is their own icon.” The looks, simple, yet featuring dramatic flares and frills in distinctively quality fabrics, are indeed iconic. The brand showcased women of various body types, as they supply clothing for a wide range of sizes. Any woman can wear this brand and is bound to be remembered! VII O VII “707” Menswear This classic line of clean suits, muted tones, and chic plaid prints call to mind an elegant, British-influenced look. And just when we thought the collection was perfect for the classic gentleman, a stunning woman in a well-tailored suit stepped out on the runway for an unexpected ending. And the crowd loved it! VII O VII Menswear proved itself classic and modern all at once. Vixxen As “S & M” by Rihanna played in the background, models hit the runway in pieces with contrasting textures and pieces: leather and tulle, fishnets and frills. This brand is the perfect fit for the daring and multi-dimensional woman. Inspired