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.
Wardrobe Wednesday: Ryan’s Ritzy Attire
Wardrobe Wednesday: Ryan’s Ritzy Attire Richmond native, Ryan Carson, took us on a tour of her expansive and curated closet, or glam room more like. Following the likeness of her favorite style influencers @madisonxwild and @briidgetbrown, Carson has her own set of unique staple items and outfit formulas. Carson describes her specific style as “chic” and “feminine” as she’s drawn to silky tops and long skirts. She’s also not afraid of accessorizing to give life to an outfit; her favorite sidekicks coming in the form of silver jewelry and patterned scarves. From trying on her mom’s vintage heels as a little girl, to adding Sandy Liang’s newest sling backs to her wishlist, Carson has always been drawn to fashion. This fashion merchandising alum grew up grasping trends right at her fingertips by playing every styling game available on her treasured Nintendo DS. Carson went on to expand her fashion horizon through experimenting with her school outfits. She reminisces on how confident she felt putting on certain pieces that she wouldn’t even touch today as her style has evolved and grown. Carson even keeps a reminder of her start in fashion in the form of her dad’s letterman jacket. Carson defines her style evolution as a “learning process,” as she continues to draw inspiration from all sectors of the fashion industry. She loves to second-hand shop, either consignment or vintage, because of this. Carson enjoys finding older brands to show off in combination with her trendy pieces. She’s not exclusive when it comes to where she buys her unique pieces however. Carson loves a good sale! She has become a master of mixing and matching garments to fit her aesthetic. No matter what new patterns or elements come in and out of the fashion world, one thing is for sure: Carson will never go out of style!
Trend Tuesday: Burgundy
Trend Tuesday: Burgundy If we’ve learned anything from the Spring 2024 runway, it’s that burgundy is the new it color for the foreseeable future. A deeper, richer shade of the red that everyone’s closets were full of in the fall. Shown in collections by Kim Shui, Gucci, Hermès, Saint Laurent, Miu Miu and more in all different forms. Jump onto the new burgundy wave with 2 piece sets, leather jackets, dresses, handbags, shoes, the perfect shade of lipstick, or any other accessories that call your name. Pair the statement color with brighter colors for a striking contrast, or make it a full monochromatic look to channel these designer’s runway looks. A Look At The Runway In Gucci’s Spring 2024 ready-to-wear show in Milan Fashion Week, we caught a glimpse of their new shade – Gucci Rosso. Any guesses of what it looks like? You’d be correct if you suspected it’s spring’s new favorite: burgundy. The collection that Gucci Rosso is featured in is led by creative director Sabato De Sarno, this show marking his debut for Gucci. In the show we see burgundy paired with neutrals such as gray, white and brown, but it’s also shown with a staple from Gucci – bright yellows and green. Gucci Rosso is not only shown through garments, it’s also walking the runway in heels and platform loafers, as well as on the arms of the models in the iconic Jackie bag. Highlighted among Gucci’s new collection is Hermès and their Spring/Summer 2024 ready-to-wear collection. This was displayed in Paris during their extravagant show of models walking through what looked like real-life meadows under golden daylight. Hermès creative director Nadège Vanhee-Cybulski shared with Vogue Runway that the colors of the show are “actually those of the leather goods.” Burgundy, or if you’re referring to Hermès, Rouge H, was a centerpiece of the show. Similar to Gucci, Rouge H was shown in all forms and with all different silhouettes – long jackets, skirts, jumpsuit sets, dresses, handbags and more. While the pieces and examples mentioned in this article are from luxury designers, don’t let that intimidate you from finding your own burgundy this season. Thrifting is the best way to find unique pieces at a realistic and sustainable price. Whether it’s a new leather jacket, or a simple pair of kitten heels, burgundy is guaranteed to spice up any outfit.
Never Too Old to Play With Dolls
Never Too Old to Play With Dolls After a brief childhood of being taught to scorn the concept of girlishness, we as a generation are finally ready to embrace and love the color pink. This theme of the childlike innocence of the doll has been highly present in this spring’s couture shows- predominantly with Maison Margiela’s Parisian nod to porcelain dolls and Marc Jacob’s 1960’s paper doll inspiration. The concept of the “doll” not only celebrates all things in cotton candy shades and frilly silhouettes, but speaks to the idea of self autonomy, consciousness, and reclamation of innocence. “With the Barbie movie there’s been a narrative flip where women are coming together to embrace their femininity in their own ways and not caring what society has to say. That’s mainly what I was inspired by when I was concepting this photoshoot in the winter and seeing that [luxury] designers had the same inspiration is very telling of how impactful this almost “movement” was,” said our Creative Director Carolina Gomez. Posing the models at stiff angles with gleaming white smiles, we hoped to convey both the fakeness and the joy of the doll. This shoot illustrated the journey towards the healing of the inner child; learning again to have fun and to remember that, as said by Gomez, “fashion is art.” In lavender silk, knee socks, and Mary Janes, we incidentally pay homage to the couturiers who speak to a larger crowd- reverberating their imaginings of what a human doll may look like. Odd proportions? Chic stilettos? Perfect glass-like skin? Inhuman. Just like the expectation of the little girls who play with dolls and suddenly grow into women. While progress in this front is undeniable, America Ferrara echoes this notion in “Barbie” by saying, “it is literally impossible to be a woman.” But with small things like dressing up how our 8-year-old self would and experimenting with color and pattern, we can reteach ourselves that when it comes to fashion, it can be joyous.