Unmasking the Art of the Masquerade
Unmasking the Art of the Masquerade Since the introduction of the masquerade ball in Medieval France, there has been an air of seduction and allure around these typically high profile events. With the original parties surrounding royals and court goers- prestige and power, rendezvous and intrigue are the core of the masquerade. After all, doesn’t anything go once you put on a mask? Carnival season, the period of heavy indulgence before the onset of Lent, was the birthplace of masked debauchery- the streets filled with disguised individuals hoping to give into their temptations one last time before they must rebuke their sins. During this time, the wealthy and the poor were able to celebrate together due to the anonymity provided by the mask. By the 17th century, the ball had been adopted by nobles involved in high fashion, using the events to premier the newest, most decadent styles to the ever watchful eye of the royals. In an age without the internet and social media, the allure of obscured identity was pure and enticing, leaving guests tantalized by the question: who asked me to dance last night? Today, the ball has been transformed into a scene for TV socialites, like Serena Vanderwoodsen and Katherine Pierce, to let loose- and for the more “common” person, a compelling halloween party theme. While there are still high-society balls that occur in places like Venice, Italy and New Orleans, the new wave of anonymous appreciation is lower maintenance while still preserving the coolness of its history. The layers and layers of ball gowns may be toned down to a figure hugging dress in a luxurious fabric, or chopped above the knee. Gloves are still in this year, but opt for a sheer or lace version. For the men, a classy look is always a winner- but try swapping the suit jacket for a trench or adding a funky belt to the get up. Overall, the idea of the masquerade ball is exploration without inhibition, so experimentation in the name of fashion is highly encouraged. Though fashions have changed, the message of the masquerade ring true today: indulgence is human nature.
Autumn Is Here
Photographer: Adriana BrownWritten by: Marta LocklearModels: Simi Gold, Nabiha Rais, Mia Jones, Sydney Heckman, Mindy Tran, and Nima Jawadian There is something so beautiful about October. Like enjoying a walk around Hollywood Cemetery with your best friends, a picnic with hot apple cider and a guitar, and warm fall layers. Have some fun dates planned with your friends and need some outfit inspiration? This group of friends knows how to dress to impress. Here are some key elements to have ready to go in your fall wardrobe. A statement pair of boots that are easy to throw on with jeans and a sweater but elevate your outfit. A simple plaid skirt or plaid dress can go so far, especially paired with some tights and a white top to make it stand out. Warm tones like an orange dress is season but with it’s warm color tone pair it with a cardigan and you’re ready for date nights!
Chunky Sneakers: Friend or Foe this Season?
Your go-to style guide for rocking the trend that just won’t quit. Story by: Maia Stanley Photos by: Aliviah Jones Model: Rickaya Sykes Styled by: Estelle Avbuere Spring is officially here and that means new trends are arising and old trends are resurfacing. One of these trends includes chunky sneakers, also known as “dad” or “ugly” sneakers. They started off as a trend in later summer and early fall of last year, but died down a bit during the winter. Luckily, they resurfaced towards the end of winter and are still going strong. First debuted in Balenciaga’s Fall/Winter 2017 menswear collection, they have now transitioned their way into womenswear, especially street wear, and in some high fashion runways for designers who are known to think outside the box. Versatility is the reason these shoes have become so popular. They can be dressed up or dressed down, are suitable for several different occasions and they come in a variety of styles and colors so they are never boring. The first is a casual one that can be worn to class or when going out during the day with friends. Styled with an oversized men’s shirt, fanny pack, and cropped jeans that make it appear more put together, but still easy to get up and throw on in the morning. Another trend that is currently resurfacing is the sporty casual wear. This has appeared with the incorporation of bicycle shorts in streetwear, but this look features a body-con dress that pairs well with the athletic style of chunky sneakers. This last look features a romantic knee length dress with a slit over the thigh. The chunky sneakers dresses the garment down and makes it more appropriate for daywear and casual outings. Chunky sneakers are a versatile trend that isn’t going anywhere, it’s the perfect way to step up your spring wardrobe and add a bit of fun and flare to your outfits.
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.