FEBRUARY 2017
Going Green(ery) Luxe Coating The Comeback Clothes
Destination 2 | THREAD
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Table of Contents
SPRING 2017
FRONT OF BOOK
04 Haute Online 08 Editor’s Letter 09 Masthead 10 Top 5
SEAMS
18 Runway Realway 22 Celeb Style 26 New Lengths 30 On Key 36 Looking Sharp 40 Spotted 46 Luxe Coating 52 Under it All
40 SPOTTED
DIY
60 Night Shade 64 Brewed Brows 66 Hidden Charge 70 Work Hard, Play Hard 74 Funky Flatbreads 78 Rose to the Occasion 2 | THREAD
78 ROSE TO THE OCCASION
WHO, WHAT, WEAR
82 BEHIND THE SEAMS
82 Behind the Seams 88 Along Came Polly 94 Fem for All
MIDDLE OF BOOK
128 DESTINATION UNKNOWN
100 114 128 142 156
Down the Rabbit Hole Queen Bees Destination Unknown Mirror Image SLWL: Rainy Day
CAMPUS CASUAL 172 174 180 186 188
Horoscopes: Love & Dating Rules Do Not Apply Alternative Impact Which TV Fashion Icon are You? Blogger of the Month
BACK OF THE CLOSET 190 200 210 216 222 228 236
190 FOUNDATION REPRESENTATION
Foundation Representation The Comeback Clothes Behind Closed Doors Personal Day Going Green(ery) Confidence for All Rant/Rave: Track Suits
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HAUTE ONLINE Looking for some new blogs to add to your radar? Whether scrolling for meal inspo or needing a quick DIY gift, we’ve got you virtually covered.
WHAT MY BOYFRIEND WORE
If you adore men’s fashion, especially the dapper kind, What My Boyfriend Wore is for you. Sergio Ines created the men’s fashion and lifestyle blog in response to his girlfriend’s obsession with what he wore. She would snap photos of him in stylish outfits and post them on her Instagram. He quickly began to develop a fanbase. After receiving so much attention, he decided to expand his horizons by channeling everything into a blog and highlighting more than just his fashion sense. Ines lives in the “Tip of Africa,” also known as Cape Town, South Africa, which makes his blog’s photos and shooting locations spectacular. He has attended fashion events like Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, art exhibits like The Art of Landscape Hunting, and store openings like the world’s first Puma select store. WMBW has a plethora of other sections, like “Fancy Friday,” where he highlights ways to make fashion statements in the workplace, “Menswear 10,” where he picks a clothing item of the day and provides details about where to find it, how to wear it, and how to care for it, and “Gurl Guides,” where his girlfriend shares men’s fashion do’s and don’ts from a woman’s perspective. – JENNIFER PREMPEH 4 | THREAD
CLICK TO VIEW THE WEBSITE!
NEW DARLINGS
There are no relationship goals quite like those demonstrated by Christina and Robert Martinez, the beautiful married couple behind the blog, New Darlings. The setting: sunny Phoenix, Arizona. After spending two decades in New York, the couple left the place they’d known as home for their entire lives to start their own special adventure in the Southwest. Through their blog — aptly (and so sweetly) named New Darlings to reference their newlywed status at the time of the blog’s conception in 2013 — Christina and Robert share the details of their adorable lives. What started as a picture quickly exploded into a lifestyle blog with an accompanying Instagram and about a third of a million followers. From ’60s-inspired fashion to Pinterest-worthy home renovation projects to under-the-radar indie and alternative music, Mr. and Mrs. Martinez relate to readers on multiple levels. One quick scan of NewDarlings.com could very well lead a viewer to 1.) ask her hairdresser for blunt bangs like Christina’s, 2.) create a gallery wall in every room of the house or apartment, and 3.) cook the most delicious dinner for two while simultaneously listening to Bon Iver on repeat. For those looking for a new source of inspiration — or envy — be sure to check out NewDarlings.com and @NewDarlings on Instagram. Just don’t be surprised to find an empty wallet after perusing the blog’s “Shop” section … you have been warned. – PAIGE BENNETT OUTHREADMAG.COM | 5
THE SUGAR HIT
We’re well into 2017, which means that New Year’s resolutions to eat healthier have likely gone out the window. To fulfill those unhealthy cravings, check out The Sugar Hit. The Sugar Hit is a food blog run by Brisbane, Australia-based Sarah Coates. Coates has a simple focus for her blog: food that tastes good. And she’s created a blog that does just that. Her most recent recipes include pumpkin cinnamon rolls, doughnuts with a salted caramel glaze, and hazelnut praline cheesecake swirl brownies. Coates also does a great job explaining unfamiliar terms, like tangzhong (a fluffy bread baking technique), without being condescending, making the experience informative and fun. Coates claims the one thing she won’t write about is, “any bullshit about moderation or diets and whatnot.” She understands that there is a plethora of other online outlets that focus solely on health and dieting, and she thinks talking about such topics is boring. The bright, pop art-inspired theme of the blog makes it fun to read, which isn’t hard to do given that she’s crafting recipes for some of the best foods on the planet. The blog has a “Recipe Index” that sections food into several categories: breakfast, dessert, drinks, snacks, and savory — meaning readers can find recipes for whatever type of food they’re craving in that moment. Coates, who lives and works out of metric system-based Australia, also provides conversions for all of her recipes so American readers will have no problem following along. So what are you waiting for? Dig in! – JULIA BROWN 6 | THREAD
haute online
GIRL WITH CURVES
Unapologetically confident, feminine, and classic — blogger Tanesha Awasthi strikes a chord with readers who are looking for a body positive style guide and a feel-good message. Awasthi’s blog, Girl With Curves, features herself, a stylish mom who inspires readers to own the skin they’re in and live a healthy lifestyle, regardless of body shape or size. Awasthi started the blog in 2011 to share her love for shopping, but it quickly turned into an outlet to “inspire women to feel comfortable enough in their own skin to have the courage to wear what they love.” The blogger, mother, and fashionista serves as the perfect role model: she sports classic business casual looks, high heels, and a head full of curly locks. She also keeps readers up-todate with her seasonal looks catalog and countless other projects. Since the launch of her site, Awasthi has made her mark as a seasoned blogger. She has spoken at universities, campaigned for big name retailers, and even had the opportunity to work with Michelle Obama on her Let’s Move! campaign. Awasthi also worked with Old Navy as a brand ambassador on a campaign called, “Breaking Denim Rules,” where she modeled alongside women from every walk of life to encourage diversity in denim wear. Featured in magazines such as Vogue, Glamour, and Cosmopolitan, Awasthi shares her passion and positivity as she breaks beauty barriers and encourages people to embrace individual style. The effortlessness, creativity, and encouraging message behind Awasthi’s posts are groundbreaking in a culture that tries to silence alternative beauty standards. – RYLIE BROWN OUTHREADMAG.COM | 7
Editor’s Note Hey Threadies! Now that we have another year behind us, I’m choosing to look forward instead of back. Spring is right around the corner and I’m ready for something new — new trends, new experiences, new outlook. Luckily, this issue is packed full of something new for everyone. Okay, you caught me. “New” trends? Is there really such a thing? This issue, we’re examining how trends always seem to come and go in “The Comeback Clothes” (P. 200). Even though fashion tends to be caught in an endless cycle, we’re still always trying to keep things fresh. Explore some of my personal favorite trends from statement key chains (“On Key” P. 30) to unique ways to style fishnet tights (“Under It All” P. 52). If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably already ditched your New Year’s resolutions, or at the very least you’re slipping. To get back on track, I’m forcing myself to step out of my comfort zone and try something different. Whether that means taking on a new activity like attempting to get crafty — hello, DIY sleep mask (“Night Shade” P. 60) — or exploring a new and exciting place — we’ve got inspiration (“Destination: Unknown” P. 128). Taking on brand new experiences probably has you on the path to a
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new outlook already, but sometimes it takes looking within oneself to make a change. This issue we’re talking about self care, in mind and body, to remind ourselves it’s okay to put yourself first every once in a while (“Personal Day” P. 216). We hope you’ll take some time to enjoy this issue and focus on the new within yourself and around you. If you need even more motivation to get you excited for a new season, try turning to Pantone’s recently declared color of the year, greenery (“Going Green(ery)” P. 222). It’s bright, inviting, and well — new. Embracing a fresh and happy color can easily inspire, so don’t be afraid to try something new this season. Get ready to open your mind, open these pages, and dive in.
WITH LOVE,
masthead
thread EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Michelle Frantz MANAGING EDITOR
Alicia MacDonald DESIGN DIRECTOR Sarah Blankenship
PHOTO EDITOR Kate Stone
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Taylor McCarthy
PHOTO CHIEF Kinsey Ball
SEAMS EDITOR Katie Pittman
VIDEO CHIEF Carley Matson
FEATURES EDITOR Kayla Blanton
COPY CHIEF Julia Brown
WHO, WHAT, WEAR EDITOR Courtney Mihocik
PUBLIC RELATIONS CHIEF Ciara Sebecke
DIY EDITOR Paige Bennett
BUSINESS MANAGER Alex Warner
CAMPUS CASUAL EDITOR Kenyetta Whitfield
WEB EDITOR Kayla Beard
FASHION MONTH COORDINATOR Erin Fausel
DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT ASSISTANT Madison Cleveland
JUNIOR PHOTO EDITOR Evan Leonard
JUNIOR PHOTO CHIEF Isaac Gibson
WRITERS
Courtney Adams, Rylie Brown, Hannah Browsky, Marie Chailosky, Danielle Donavan, Colleen Howard, Abbey Kay, Hailee Kepchar, Alexis McCurdy, Carly McFadden, Abigail Mulligan, Jackie Osborne, Jennifer Prempeh, Julie Rhodes, Jaida Sterling, Elizabeth Swansinger, Micah Upshaw, Yumin Zhang
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Emily Barbus, Kelly Bondra, Maggie Boyle, Colby Caldwell, Melissa Cordy, Justin Gamble, Isaac Gibson, Allison Haas, Kaitlin Hatton, Ailsa Heckscher, Rachel Hudacek, Lindsey Lemons, Evan Leonard, Riley Perone, Hannah Ruhoff, Melina Triffon, Jenna Wallace, Kelly Wallace, Caitlyn Withers
DESIGNERS
Kelly Bondra, Nicole Dinan, Megan Fogelson, Abby Gordon, Samantha Gut, Holly McCoy, Audra Swan, Grace Ziemke
BLOGGERS
Courtney Adams, Alex Bertolini, Maggie Boyle, Vanessa Copetas, Colleen Howard, Christina Kirchner, Jessica Lucas, Lindsey Mathews, Rachel O’Morrow, Ciara Sebecke, Kate Stone
STYLISTS
Cheyenne Bodnar, Jenna Davis, Danielle Donavan, Kathrine Krekeler, Miraluna Matar, Lauren Shaffer, Lauren Worley
PUBLIC RELATIONS TEAM
Hannah Browsky, Bailey Kormick, Abigail Masluk, Jennifer Prempeh, Rachel Sinistro, Xinyi Yan
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5 TOP
Find out the top five things that our exec board is inspired by right now.
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1
THE GOLDEN GIRLS Break out the
cheesecake: “The Golden Girls” are officially making a comeback. These four lovable ladies will steal you heart, both from the humor and the heartwarming moments they share. Although the first episode aired over 30 years ago, the episodes are still relevant today, with episodes devoted to teen pregnancy, AIDS, and gay marriage. In the same way that everyone can identify with a Sex and the City character, everyone can identify with a golden girl: faithful Dorothy, kooky Rose, sensual Blanche, and hilarious Sophia. Every episode of “The Golden Girls” will be headed to Hulu on Feb. 13, so gather up your closest gal pals, thank them for being a friend, and then binge watch the entire series together. – JULIA BROWN
2
EVA CHEN If you read Teen
Vogue as religiously as I did when I was in middle school, then you know exactly who Eva Chen is. She is the former beauty director of Teen Vogue, and I remember checking the mail every single day anticipating the arrival of my copy so that I could read her stories. When she left Teen Vogue, I was crushed, but she’s moved onto much, much bigger things! Chen is currently the head of fashion partnerships at Instagram. How cool is that!? She is someone that I look up to in this digital media age that we’re in, not to mention her Instagram Live stories are seriously hilarious. Her Instagram feed is overflowing with perfectly staged photos of her shoes and purses, as well as her daily adventures with her growing family. Consider giving her a follow the next time that you’re scrolling through your “Insta.” You’ll be happy that you did. – ALICIA MACDONALD OUTHREADMAG.COM | 11
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WESTERN-INSPIRED BOOTIES I’m always a sucker for a good leather bootie. This season, I’ve been obsessed with wearing heavily detailed leather boots. Whether boots have buckles, belts, or brads, you can probably find them on my feet. The worn-looking, versatile boots go with almost any outfit, and they last a lifetime. I’ve had some of my favorite boots for years, and trust me, they get better with age. Fresh details (like metallic leather or higher heels) keep you from looking like you’re coming straight from the farm and add a touch of drama to the usual T-shirt and jeans combo. – KATIE PITTMAN
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top 5
3
KHALID Normally it takes me two to three plays to truly
enjoy a song or artist; for Khalid, it was love at first listen. This 18-year-old R&B singer from El Paso, Texas, has recently been making waves in the music industry for his unique sound and style. His light melodies, smooth voice, and catchy beats make his songs both easy to listen to and hard to turn off (even after hours on repeat — whoops). If you’re a first listener, I’d recommend his most popular song, Location, played through Youtube to appreciate the music video. If you’re a fan like I am, I’d recommend watching the short documentary on him on Fader — it will make you appreciate his music even more. And if you’re not familiar, get to know him before his first album releases March 3. – KINSEY BALL
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ESSENTIAL OILS Essential oils have become all
the rage within the past year, and with good reason. They smell so refreshingly wonderful and provide the natural boost they preach. I’ve been obsessed with my diffuser and oil set since the day I first got it. When misted into the air, the inhalation of each scented oil stimulates a different receptor that produces an effect on the emotions. It’s also known as aromatherapy. Eucalyptus mint is associated with relaxation and de-stressing, while lavender aids with sleep. Douse any room with the desired scent to reap all its therapeutic, medicinal benefits. – ALEX WARNER
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CELEB STYLE: DAKOTA JOHNSON
SEAMS:NEW LENGTHS
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SPRING 2017
VIDEOS
Click play on behind-the-scenes moments from this issue’s shoots, DIY instructions, and more DIY: ROSE TO THE OCCASION
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MOB: DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE
100
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+ Watch videos made by Thread on YouTube, including behind the scenes looks at the making of our photoshoots! THREAD MAGAZINE VIDEO OUTHREADMAG.COM | 15
SEAMS
From the runways to the streets, and everything in between, here are this season’s most soughtafter trends. LUXE COATING /// 46
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Runway Realway Mother of Pearl takes us on a trip back in time to the 1980s with their spring collection.
BY MARIE CHAILOSKY PHOTOS BY AMEENA HUQ
Amy Powney, creative director of fashion house Mother of Pearl, hit the nail on the head with the Spring/Summer 2017 line. With outfits lifted straight from the 1980s, the line is an ode to the 1989 movie anthology “New York Stories.” Powney’s greatest inspiration seems to be drawn primarily from the second short film in the movie, directed by Francis Coppola and titled “Life Without Zoë.” The oversized silhouettes, messy makeup, and mom jeans are a direct reflection of the spoiled, little rich girl trope of 9-year-old Zoë, who would dress up in her mother’s clothes and play with her makeup while living in a luxury hotel in New York City. The ruffled mini-dresses and hints of sportswear are inspired by the heroine, Paulette, in the first short film “Life Lessons,” directed by Martin Scorsese. The pearl detailing and micro-floral print that looks like it belongs on your grandmother’s wallpaper is based on Sadie Milstein, the elderly female character in Woody Allen’s “Oedipus Wrecks.” 18 | THREAD
Trends come and go, and we are currently pendulum-swinging back into the ’80s. The case could be made that the 1980s were the first era that athleisure was regarded as fashionable, denim on denim was strikingly trendy, and hemlines kept shrinking. Today, we see these trends again. The bright red paired with light denim is a color duo that is classically American and something that the ’80s can take credit for. To channel the 1980s and the females in “New York Stories,” there are many options that could be pulled from this line. Pair a micro-miniskirt with a matching long sleeve top and sleek, pointed heels for a nod to Paulette. For Zoë, wear light denim mom-jeans with a baggy button-up tucked in with your brightest red lipstick. And lastly, pair a micro-floral print drop waist dress with pearl accessories as a salute to Sadie. This line can be manipulated in every way to fit any occasion. Whether going to class or a night out, Mother of Pearl created a line for the times when you want to feel like a movie star.
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Palm Angels 20 | THREAD
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Runway Realway Palm Angels returns with a youthful Spring 2017 collection that pays homage to California’s skateboard culture.
BY HAADIZA OGWUDE PHOTOS BY SPENCER HAWK
Francesco Ragazzi expressed his inner teen through Palm Angels Spring/Summer 2017 collection. Ragazzi looked within his own body of work to seek inspiration for his new collection. Intrigued by a picture that resembled Jimi Hendrix in his photography book on California’s skateboard subculture, Ragazzi asked himself, “What’s the modern festival today?” Infusing elements from 1970s teen fashion with today’s staples, Ragazzi created a line for the next generation of concertgoers that is both rebellious and experimental. Everything from tracksuits, graphic tees, blazers, camouflage hoodies, and distressed denim jackets can be found in this collection. Some of the more dramatic looks of the line include lighters used as necklaces, a camouflage two-piece suit, a tiger striped blazer, a denim dungaree layered with orange smiley faces, and a white sweatshirt with the name Jessica written in an early 2000s air brush style.
This energetic collection is a simple one to imitate. Many of the pieces featured in this line would make for relatively simple DIY projects as well. Distressing an old pair of jeans or tie-dying and fringing a white T-shirt are easy and affordable ways to mimic some of the looks of the collection. Delicate necklaces, athletic slides, and embroidered baseball caps and bucket hats are accessories that will help to enhance any wardrobe to fit this skater-inspired aesthetic. Additional pieces to consider when emulating this collection are athletic shorts, rain boots, camouflage T-shirts, and knitted rainbow colored beanies. The Italian-based brand’s twist on long-established templates is what distinguishes the Palm Angels collection from others of its caliber. By concentrating on the fashion displayed at music festivals such as Coachella and Bonnaroo, Ragazzi was able to create a collection that embodies the youth of today. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 21
Celeb Style “Fifty Shades of Grey” star Dakota Johnson has proven her place not only in the film industry, but the fashion world as well. BY BAILEY HAYS PHOTOS BY HANNAH RUHOFF
After the release of “Fifty Shades of Grey” in February 2015, Dakota Johnson became a household name overnight. Not only has she proven her place in the movie industry, but she has taken the fashion world into her own hands. Considering her mom is actress Melanie Griffith, and her grandmother is Tippi Hedren, her ability to make jaws drop on the red carpet is no surprise. While she continuously stuns with her Gucci and Marc Jacobs dresses, her cool, yet casual style while walking the streets of New York City has also made her one of Hollywood’s favorite fashion icons. Johnson’s ability to go between the two styles is what makes her style so admirable and interesting. She makes basic staples a main component of her everyday outfits. Whether it’s a leather jacket or the black sunglasses that she is constantly photographed in, her look gives off a timeless vibe and makes whatever she is wearing crisp and clean. More often than not, she is seen with a black leather bag slung over her shoulder. While Johnson’s outfits are simple, they make an impact. In one of her best looks, Johnson 22 | THREAD
is wearing cropped, light-wash denim jeans with black booties. She then added a charcoal gray blazer with a semi-sheer shirt, allowing a little bit of her undergarments to show through. Her favorite looks include pieces that all fashion gurus should have in their closets: leather jackets, a nice pair of jeans, a classic white T-shirt, and statement booties. Incorporating these pieces into everyday outfits is easy. Whether it’s for class or a night on the town, all of these items make a impeccable outfit. When attending red carpet events, this Hollywood starlet is always changing up her looks. Whether it’s a sparkly dress or a black pantsuit, Johnson always pushes the limits. She is constantly changing her style for these events and serves the world different looks each time she comes out. She has been unafraid to try daring combos like a red dress and red lip. Whenever she is seen out, Johnson’s outfits are always ready to take on the paparazzi. After the premiere of “Fifty Shades Darker” earlier this month, she has proven yet again why she is at the top of the list in the world of fashion.
Dakota Johnson
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Rami Malek
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Celeb Style Actor and style icon Rami Malek flaunts his alternative styles while walking the red carpet and the streets.
BY HANNAH BROWSKY PHOTOS BY KAITLIN HATTON
Rami Malek is an AmericanEgyptian actor who shows his style and personality through his everyday clothing. Known for his starring role in the hit television series “Mr. Robot” and supporting roles in blockbusters like “Night at the Museum” and “Twilight: Breaking Dawn (Part 2),” he defies the average actor look by exhibiting a classy, yet edgy style. People go crazy when they see an attractive celebrity on the red carpet wearing a fitted tux, bright white shirt, and designer shoes. Seeing Rami Malek on the red carpet, however, is like a breath of fresh air because of his variety and ability to step away from the typical look donned by many other men. While he sometimes chooses to go for the classic suit and tie to create a clean look, he adds his own pieces for color and edge. Generally, Malek rocks updated high-end designer tuxedos from brands like Dior and Valentino. To take his outfit to the next level, he uses accessories to change up a look. Whether it be a bow tie or contrasting pocket squares, Malek
knows how to work the cameras on the red carpet. Achieving his classy but casual look can be easy, like incorporating a button down shirt with a jacket. When Malek is seen in a casual look, he favors a patterned button down shirt with a bomber or leather jacket. While at an event for his hit television show “Mr. Robot” in New York City, Malek donned a blue Valentino suit, black and navy striped shirt, and white Kurt Geiger shoes for a pop of color. At the Television Academy’s 70th Anniversary Gala, Malek sported a different look that was still stylish — a khaki-colored Valentino suit with an All Saints floral shirt and DHA pocket square. Malek took it down a notch when he was seen at the Dance Project Benefit in Los Angeles wearing tight black pants, a white undershirt, and a leather moto jacket, showcasing a simpler style with a downtown vibe. Malek is proof that it pays to be unafraid to push the envelope on traditional menswear style. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 25
New Lengths
Winter months may call for bulky sweaters, scarves, and jackets, but long chain necklaces add a delicate touch to heavy outfits.
BY YUMIN ZHANG PHOTOS BY JUSTIN GAMBLE
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ith the temperature dropping, sweaters and coats become indispensable items. It is difficult to show authentic taste when it’s necessary to keep warm on a snowy day. Many people tend to feel there are no clothing options in their winter wardrobe. The feeling is usually caused by a couple of reasons. First, they have a whole wardrobe of clothing, but no accessories. And second, they lack something new to change their usual style. Necklaces play the role of an essential accessory in the winter. Chokers, the hottest trend from the fall, are not eye-catching enough to be the focus of an outfit. Taking a cue from the professionals — like Kendall Jenner, who is often photographed wearing necklaces — many fashion enthusiasts are trying spruce up their looks with a simple necklace. So, why not try long chain necklaces to dress up heavy winter garb? Long chain necklaces are an 26 | THREAD
accessory that can add interest to any outfit. There are many ways to wear long chain necklaces in order to accentuate one’s basic, everyday style. First and foremost, a long chain can solve any wardrobe annoyance easily. Try a simple twisted long chain with T-shirts, blazers, or sweaters. A basic long chain pairs well with any outfit — casual or formal, cool or warm. Although a basic long chain is a simple accessory, it can make casual T-shirts dressy, rigid blazers soft, and thick sweaters interesting. Gucci featured long pearl necklaces in their Spring 2017 collection, pairing them with structured blazers and button-up tops. Secondly, choosing a proportional necklace for an outfit is important. There are three kinds of lengths of long chains, including matinee length (22 inches to 23 inches long), opera length (30 inches to 35 inches long) and rope length (any necklace longer than 35 inches). Try wearing a rope length necklace with a T-shirt. It’s also
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appropriate to wear a rope-length chain with a dress. Some long chain necklaces have pendants, which can add even more visual interest to an outfit, no matter the personal style. Long pendant necklaces with attached chokers were featured in the Spring 2017 Christian Dior show. The long, delicate chains were paired with striking graphic tees and feminine tulle skirts. Even after the leaves return to the trees, don’t tuck away this trendy piece. Long chain necklaces are bound to be a key accessory well into this spring season.
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”A BASIC LONG CHAIN CAN MATCH ANY STYLE OUTFIT, CASUAL OR FORMAL, COOL OR WARM.”
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On Key Keychains aren’t just souvenirs from your favorite theme park anymore.
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BY MICAH UPSHAW PHOTOS BY ALLISON HAAS
F
rom the fashion-forward celebs in Hollywood to the fashion-conscious students on college campuses, the fuzzy pom-pom keychain has made its way to every purse, backpack, key ring, and tote. The keychain craze seemed to take off after many big names in the fashion industry were spotted wearing these accessories on their bags and car keys. Stars like Kendall and Kylie Jenner played a huge role in this fashion trend, as they were among the first to be seen wearing the noticeably flashy bag accessory. Although always present, keychains started appearing more frequently on bags and key rings this past year. The keychain has become more than just a simple accessory for your keys — it has become a fashion statement. Originally, keychains were worn most commonly by security guards, prison officers, custodial workers, and retail managers, usually on a belt loop to provide the convenience of not having to carry keys in their hand. When more decorative keychains came about, they were nothing more than a souvenir or something cool one could pick up from the knick-knack section in a store. Now they’ve evolved into a glamorous accessory. While fuzzy keychains may 32 | THREAD
make one of the loudest statements, other styles like those featuring fringe or large metal logos, have also grown in popularity. Luxury brands, in particular, feature them more commonly as an accessory to accentuate a handbag than as a way to hold your keys. Many luxury handbag stores like Louis Vuitton, Michael Kors, and Coach have added pompom style fuzzy key chains to their inventory since the trend flourished. The keychains resemble ones from the Italian brand Fendi, which seems to be a favorite of the Kardashian clan. The Fendi keychains are unique in style but also very pricey for being such a simple fashion accessory. The furry, monsteresque design of the Fendi keychain is unique to the brand. The cheapest is $400, while the most expensive is $1,600. For the average college student, that is a lot of money. Luckily, there are much more
”KEY CHAINS HAVE BEEN AROUND FOR DECADES AND NOW SERVE THE PURPOSE OF PERSONALIZING ANYTHING YOU CAN HANG THEM FROM.”
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affordable alternatives to purchase, as well as the option of making it yourself. Stores like Target, Marshalls, local boutiques, and even Walmart are selling fuzzy keychains. Plain and simple, keychains aren’t going anywhere since they serve a function of convenience. Keychains have been around for decades and now serve the purpose of personalizing anything you can hang them from. Now that a simple keychain has become a fashion craze, it’ll be interesting to see what everyday item the fashion world will glamorize next.
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Looking Sharp Thick lashes and jewel-toned eyeshadows are making a comeback on and off the runway.
BY ABIGAIL MULLIGAN PHOTOS BY MELINA TRIFFON
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he face of 1966, or more appropriately, the eyes of 1966, seem to be making a comeback. The Twiggy eye has always been an iconic look. The bold, yet wistful look seems to simultaneously invite and push away anyone who views it. To imitate Twiggy’s makeup, keep eyeshadow natural looking with palettes that resemble skin tones. Next curl the lashes and apply mascara. For the bottom lashes, use a side to side motion that will help create a matted look. The Twiggy eye is not the only look making a comeback; 36 | THREAD
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“THESE MAKEUP TRENDS HAVE CLOSE TIES WITH THE POPART MOVEMENT THAT WAS ALSO EXTREMELY PROMINENT THROUGHOUT THE WORLD.”
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several other makeup trends that originated in the ’60s are resurfacing as though they never left. Some of these looks include the cut-crease, the cat eye, and the vivacious colors that seemed to dominate the fashion world during that era. These makeup trends have close ties with the pop-art movement that was also extremely prominent throughout the world. There have even been some modern makeup looks that resemble the dotted patterns and comic bookesque faces commonly seen in the workings of pop artist Roy Lichtenstein. There is no doubt that the bright colors of the pop art movement were related to the bright eyeshadows, lipstick, and blush seen during that time. The timeless winged eyeliner look is regaining its popularity as well. From the multitude of ways to execute this look to the endless number of tutorials popping up on how to achieve it, there is no denying the simple beauty of a clean cateye. This look originated in the 1950s with Marilyn Monroe, but wasn’t everyday wear until the 1960s. The cat eye is so popular in modern makeup that it is easy to forget it has been around for more than half a century. The 1960s were a time of
pushing the boundaries of societal norms. This was obvious in every aspect of the culture. The ’60s seem to be notorious for their boldness and risk taking. The fashion industry pioneered a kind of open-mindedness, constantly pushing for something new. Androgynous clothing and unisex themes gained momentum during the 1960s and are seen more and more in contemporary fashion. Today there are more unisex clothing lines and men wearing — and absolutely slaying — makeup. The first ever male ambassador for Covergirl, James Charles, was chosen in 2016. His makeup looks mimic those of the 1960s with bright colors and experimentation with fake freckles, multicolored highlights, and bold brows. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the 1960s were also a time for minimal makeup, especially toward the end of the decade. Brands that imitate this look and emphasize the importance of skincare before makeup include Glossier, Lilah B., RMS makeup, and Milk makeup. These types of brands are making a comeback with their subtle yet stunning products. These brands help keep a fresh face that mimics Twiggy’s clear complexion while maintaining the bold lashes and brows that are highly desirable in 2017.
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SPOTTED
Naturally achieve the faux freckle craze just in time for the warm weather. BY ABBEY KAY PHOTOS BY EMILY BARBUS
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hose who follow Kylie Jenner on social media have seen her natural face dotted with those perfect little sun spots she so effortlessly rocked. But when it comes to beauty, we all want what we don’t have. Luckily, anyone can rock freckles with the latest beauty trend of drawing on faux freckles or enhancing those beauty marks to achieve a fun and flirty look. This trend started appearing last
fall, but could carry on into spring and summer when natural freckles come out to play. Many beauty guru YouTubers such as Cara Donovan of “Glam & Gore” and James Charles of “JCharlesBeauty” have tried this trend and provided insight on how to make them look the most natural and fierce. Foundation is made to hide imperfections and even out skin tones, but freckles are beautiful and meant to stand out — they
“ANYONE CAN ROCK FRECKLES WITH THE LATEST BEAUTY TREND OF DRAWING ON FAUX FRECKLES.”
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don’t belong in the blemish category. For those who already have freckles but struggle with makeup masking them, try using a tinted moisturizer or CC cream instead of foundation so they aren’t covered. Until recently, freckles were often viewed as too “cutesy” or even ugly, but as most trends develop, freckles were transformed from being undesirable to being viewed as desirable. So, you may be wondering, how can this look be mastered in a natural way? The simplest way to draw on faux freckles is to use an
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eyebrow pencil. Natural freckles are typically not perfect dots, so it’s important to vary pressure while drawing them on so the shade and shape of the freckles are not universal. Freckles tend to be concentrated on the areas of the face that the sunlight hits the most, or in other words, they appear darkest in the areas that one would highlight. Start by adding faux freckles on the nose, the apples of the cheeks, and center of the forehead. To make them look the most realistic, add a few spare freckles in other areas of the face and use a beauty
“FRECKLES ARE BEAUTIFUL AND MEANT TO STAND OUT.”
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blender or other makeup sponge to tone down the harshness of the brow pencil. Applying faux freckles should be the last step of a beauty routine. Be sure to use setting spray and avoid touching the freckles so they don’t smudge throughout the day. Another way to achieve this look is with stencils. A company called Freck Yourself designed a product that is composed of stencils and a formula similar to self-tanner that
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acts as a slightly more permanent, but still temporary, faux-freckle option. By using this product, one can have faux freckles for several days without having to reapply or worry about smearing them after drawing them manually. Whether creating faux freckles or enhancing natural ones, this trend creates a playful, sun-kissed look without the damages of lying in a tanning booth or soaking up the sun’s harmful rays.
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LUXE COATING
Embracing a little luxury within your personal style is as simple as rocking a faux fur coat.
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BY ELIZABETH SWANSINGER PHOTOS BY MAGGIE BOYLE
It’s that time of year again. The excitement of the holidays has ended, and the frigid winter weather has begun to hit with full force. Blistering winds, snow storms, and sub-zero temperatures have even the most fashionable northerners pondering the same question: How does one beat the winter chill without abandoning a sense of style? Fortunately, for those who cringe at the thought of dragging their drab winter parka out of storage, there is a solution to this fashion dilemma: faux fur coats. Fur coats are not new to the world of fashion. In the earliest human societies, fur was believed to possess contagious magic. It was thought that wearing a fur would transfer the power and OUTHREADMAG.COM | 47
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“AS A STATEMENT PIECE, A FUR COAT ALLOWS THE REST OF AN OUTFIT TO BE KEPT SIMPLE, MAKING GETTING DRESSED THE REST OF THE WAY EXTREMELY EASY.” OUTHREADMAG.COM | 49
strength of the animal from which the fur came from to the wearer. Later, fur began to be associated with wealth and luxury. If a person wore fur, it signified that they were of high socioeconomic status. The trade of exotic fur pelts such as leopard, lynx, and bear continued to expand with the colonization of the New World. It became an extremely lucrative business as technology advanced and design techniques changed throughout the 1800s. It wasn’t until the 1980s when the ethics of real fur began to be questioned, that faux fur fashion became popularized. Nowadays, faux fur coats 50 | THREAD
are winter wardrobe staples for celebrities and street style gurus alike. Fashion idol Rihanna has incorporated furs into her wardrobe, accentuating the bold and glamorous style that she has trademarked. She has been seen rocking fur coats with everything from evening gowns to shorts and thigh-high boots. Models like Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner, who are widely known for their street style, exemplify the way that furs can be dressed down, while still looking like an outfit was put together by a professional stylist. Even some of today’s most popular musicians, such as Young
Thug and Kanye West, have gotten on board with this trend, proving that there is a place for furs in men’s fashion as well. Despite what some may think, it is not difficult to incorporate fur into any winter wardrobe. As a statement piece, a fur coat allows the rest of an outfit to be kept simple, making getting dressed extremely easy. Toss a cheetah print fur over a graphic tee with distressed jeans and sneakers and you automatically create a street style look that could make any fashion guru swoon. For a night out, pair any color fur with a black dress or leather pants for an edgy, yet cool, outfit
that will keep away the chill all night. Fast fashion companies like Zara, ASOS, and Forever 21 have made this trend accessible to all budgets. By offering a wide variety of different style and color options, shoppers are guaranteed to find a coat that can be incorporated into their wardrobe. A fur coat can save any wardrobe from the style rut that dreary winter weather might bring. Furs promise to accentuate an outfit rather than hide it like other winter jackets tend to do. They act as a happy medium between practicality and style, keeping you feeling warm while looking extremely fashionable. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 51
Under It All Add texture to your wardrobe this season by slipping on a pair of fishnets underneath your favorite jeans.
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BY SARAH WEINGARTEN PHOTOS BY KELLY BONDRA
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ayering tights underneath jeans is a go-to move when the temperatures drop. Hello, Ohio weather! But fishnets under jeans aren’t what the practical dresser thinks of when tights’ season rolls around. Fishnets are an instant cool-girl style update from regular opaque black tights.
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Fishnets are an easy way to add texture and dimension to an outfit. They can be styled to give a feminine outfit an edge or be the perfect accessory to polish off a grungy look. Either way, fishnets are versatile and add character. It also helps that you can easily find a cheap pair on the internet. Fishnets have a history of adding sexy and rebellious elements to whatever ensemble they’re added. It gives the look an edgy aesthetic that other accessories can’t quite do. Fishnets came to American culture in full force in the 1920s, thanks to flappers. Then pin-up darlings of the 1950s took the hosiery and made it their own while adding to the stocking’s sexy image. But then the punks came along in the 1970s and roughened up the sexy tights image and reclaimed them for the masses. There are a few ways to style this trend. Although pretty standard, those wanting to test the trend should layer a pair of fishnets underneath a pair of ripped boyfriend jeans. The texture from the fishnets also show underneath leg-hugging skinny jeans, so pair the ripped boyfriend jeans with a micro-patterned fishnet for a seamless look. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 55
Another styling option is to pull the fishnets up to the waistline and pair them with midrise jeans, rips optional, and a crop top. This allows the fishnets to be seen over the stomach, while also bringing a new twist to the basic jeans and crop top outfit. Micro-patterned fishnets would work for this look as well, but a wider pattern fishnet would make this outfit stand out. And for all the freeze babies who are wondering what is wrong with wool tights? They can wear this trend too without freezing their tushes off. Layer fishnets underneath a pair of cropped jeans that can’t wait to be broken out until springtime. This look will keep most legs warm and covered, but will still look fashionable. One can even 56 | THREAD
rock a pair of fishnet socks with this look instead of tights. If black fishnets are still too boring and something fresher and different is desired, then white fishnets are great to invest in. White is obviously not the standard color for fishnets, so these will hit the refresh button on the pair of tights that have been around forever. Fishnets have been a part of fashion for decades because they keep being reinvented. Whether they’re being used to spice up an outfit or roughen one up, fishnets are an essential accessory to hold on to. Even when the fishnet-underneath-jeans trend dies, don’t throw the collection of fishnets away. They’ll become invaluable once the next fishnet trend comes to fruition.
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DIY
Crafting the most intricate of knick-knacks, working out the mind, body, and soul, and making the most delicious of treats. WORK HARD, PLAY HARD /// 70 58 | THREAD
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NIGHT SHADE Say goodbye to sleeplessness and get your beauty rest with this easy DIY sleep mask. BY JAIDA STERLING PHOTOS BY KELLY WALLACE
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hether up studying for an exam or out drinking with friends, college students often can’t help but stay up until the early morning hours. It’s common to find that you can’t even sleep when 2 a.m. rolls around because you get used to such bad habits. A sleep mask is just what you need to sleep better and fall asleep sooner. Instead of buying one, you and your night owl friends can make your own beautifully crafted sleep masks (no sewing required!).
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MATERIALS NEEDED: • Fabric for the front of mask
• Sleep mask template
• Fabric for the back of mask
• Fabric glue
• Fabric or stuffing to put inside the mask
• Elastic
• Felt fabric for designs (optional)
• Scissors
STEPS: STEP ONE: Print out a sleep
mask template and cut out the mask shape. Lay that onto the fabric for the front of the mask and draw around the template. Repeat this on the fabric for the back of the mask.
STEP TWO: After you draw the
desired size and shape of the mask, cut the fabric where you drew the lines. Take the fabric you cut out and put it to the side.
STEP THREE: Take the elastic and
STEP SIX: Take the fabric or
stuffing and place as much into your mask as you want. Be sure there is space around the edges to glue the front and the back of the mask together.
STEP SEVEN: Glue together the
front and the back of the mask by applying glue around the edge of either the front or back. The front should cover the side you glued the elastic to.
STEPS FOR EYELASHES (OPTIONAL):
cut a piece a little longer than what will fit around your head and put that piece to the side.
STEP ONE: Make a stencil for what
STEP FOUR: Take the fabric that
STEP TWO: Take the stencil and
is for the back of the mask and cut a slit close (but not too close) to the edge on both ends of the mask.
STEP FIVE: Take one piece of the elastic and slide half an inch through one of the slits. Glue that piece down onto the mask. Repeat on the other side. 62 | THREAD
you want your eyelashes to look like for your mask.
put it onto your fabric. Then, cut the fabric around the stencil.
STEP THREE: If you like the way it
looks, glue it onto the front of the mask and let it dry.
STEP FOUR: Wear your mask and finally get a good night’s rest. Sweet dreams.
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diy: craft it
Brewed Brows Thick eyebrows are all the rage, and this DIY eyebrow tint is the easiest way to save time and have the most enviable brows around. BY KATIE COULTER PHOTOS BY MELISSA CORDY
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he key to any good makeup look begins with a well-defined brow. If your eyebrow hairs tend to be on the sparse side, this is the ideal recipe for you: a DIY eyebrow tint. This eyebrow tint includes all natural products that you likely have in your cabinet at home. Whether you’re running to the gym barefaced or headed to class with minimal makeup, this genius eyebrow hack will save you time and make you look pulled together in the nick of time — don’t worry, we won’t tell.
Materials Needed 2 Tbsp Leftover Coffee Grounds 1 Tsp Cocoa Powder 2 Tbsp Coconut Oil 1 Tbsp Honey
Steps
1 Mix the dry ingredients together in a small bowl.
2 Slowly add in the liquid ingredients while stirring. (Tip: It’s easier to mix if you melt the coconut oil in the microwave first.)
3 Apply the mixture with a small angled brush onto your eyebrows. Let the tint set for several minutes, remove, and voila! You have effortlesslydefined eyebrows.
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HIDDEN CHARGE Tired of dealing with knotted chargers that inevitably end up in the bottom of your bag? This DIY charging tassel not only keeps a charger conveniently located, but also keeps it untangled and ready-to-use.
BY KATIE PITTMAN PHOTOS BY MELISSA CORDY
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No matter how neatly a phone charger is put away, it always comes out a tangled mess. Chargers are bothersome to store, so why not create a fashionable accessory to keep them from knotting up? A leather tassel keychain adds texture and interest to a plain bag, and it keeps your charger knot-free and hidden. Simply clip the tassel onto your bag and never be left with the hassle of a dead device ever again.
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MATERIALS NEEDED: Leather or other sturdy fabric Large clasp Glue Scissors Phone Charger Straight edge
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diy: craft it
STEPS Step One Lay out the fabric and mark how wide the tassel fringe should be. Step Two Cut vertically to create fringe, making sure to leave at least an inch of uncut fabric at the top.
Step Five Take the fringed fabric and roll it around the charger and loop. Add glue as you roll. Step Six Tie or clip the roll to ensure the glue dries and nothing comes undone.
Step Three Place the fringe aside. Cut a small rectangle of fabric, about 1/4 inch wide and 4 inches long, and fold it in half to act as a loop.
Step Seven Take the loose ends of the loop and string the clasp on. Glue the loose ends together to keep the clasp from falling off.
Step Four Place the charging cord in the loop. Glue a small portion of the loop, but leave the ends free so the clasp can be added later.
Step Eight Your phone charger is now knot-free and disguised as a stylish keychain.
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BENCH JUMP SQUATS Stand in front of a park bench or stable raised platform. The taller the platform, the farther you should stand away. Start with your legs slightly bent, then spring up on to the bench, landing softly on your feet. Once on the bench, stand up straight. Flex your glutes and hamstrings to get the full benefit of this exercise. Step back down and repeat. Do 15 reps.
WORK HARD, PLAY HARD
diy: work it
Enjoy all the fun your favorite childhood hangout has to offer while getting the benefits of your go-to gym workout with this playground-friendly circuit. BY HAILEE KEPCHAR PHOTOS BY RILEY PERONE
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he gym can be a dismal place. Ditch your dull routine and hit the playground for a workout that’s anything but child’s play — no membership needed. These exercises utilize your own body weight to create a workout that is simple, but effective. Add this workout to your regimen to improve your strength, balance, and flexibility.
JUMPING ROPE Pick up a jump rope to get your heart pumping. Maintain good posture and focus on small wrists movements. Choke up on the handle for better control and angle your wrists slightly toward each other. No rope? Jumping or jogging in place will give you similar benefits. Do this for 90 seconds after completion of every set.
PRESS PLAY This playlist will keep you going from warm up to cool down with a mix of both modern and old school beats. “Wake Up” – Fetty Wap “Good Day” – Nappy Roots “Good Ass Intro” – Chance the Rapper “All Your Fault” – Big Sean feat. Kanye West “Mind Your Manners” – Chiddy Bang “Child’s Play” – Drake “Up Up and Away” – Kid Cudi “ISpy” – KYLE “All Falls Down” – Kanye West “The Worst Guys” – Childish Gambino OUTHREADMAG.COM | 71
INVERTED MONKEY BAR CRUNCHES Get ready to shred your abdominal muscles. Pull yourself up on to any kind of overhead horizontal bar so that you are hanging upside down by your knees. Squeeze your hamstrings to your calves throughout this exercise. Make sure you are confident in your ability to hold yourself in this position before you remove your hands from the bar. Let go slowly and reach your hands toward the ground and begin to crunch up toward your knees. Do 20 reps. 72 | THREAD
BENCH DIPS Tone your triceps with this simple movement. Putting your hands on either side of you, slide your butt off the bench and straighten your legs, heels to the ground. Your arms should be straight, but not strained. Bend at the elbow and lower yourself down until your arms are at a 90 degree angle, then push yourself up into your original position. Do 20 reps.
diy: work it
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Funky Flatbreads Spread on some fun and top it with love — no oven needed. BY EMILY MCINTYRE PHOTOS BY COLBY CALDWELL
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izza and college go together like peanut butter and jelly, but too many slices can really pack on the pounds. While you don’t have to swear off pizza forever, try a lighter pie — er, flatbread — that packs just as much flavor. These may look fancy, but they’re a cinch to assemble. The best part? You can customize the ingredients to accommodate your taste preferences, no matter how bizarre. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 75
BERRY CHEESECAKE MATERIALS NEEDED: 4 oz. light cream cheese, softened 1 Tbsp butter 2 Tbsp confectioners’ sugar ½ tsp vanilla extract ¼ cup strawberries, thinly sliced ¼ cup raspberries ¼ cup blueberries 1 Tbsp mini chocolate chips 1 Tbsp caramel sauce STEPS: In a small bowl, mix cream cheese and butter together until thoroughly combined. Add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla, then mix quickly with a fork until light and fluffy. Spread onto flatbread evenly. Add fruit, sprinkle mini chocolate chips and drizzle caramel sauce on top. 76 | THREAD
TEX MEX MATERIALS NEEDED: Tex Mex Supreme 1 ¼ tsp taco seasoning ¼ lb lean ground beef 1/3 cup queso 2 Tbsp black beans 2 Tbsp diced tomatoes (fresh or canned) 1 Tbsp diced onion Fresh cilantro, finely chopped STEPS: Put ground beef in a skillet on medium-high heat until cooked thoroughly. Add taco seasoning and stir until all meat is coated. Spread queso on flatbread. Add meat, black beans, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro on top.
VEGGIE–LICIOUS MATERIALS NEEDED: Flatbread 1/3 cup hummus 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil Dried herbs, such as rosemary (optional) 1 stalk celery, chopped ¼ bell pepper, diced 4 baby carrots, sliced ½ baby cucumber, sliced STEPS: Spread flatbread with hummus. Drizzle olive oil evenly, then sprinkle dried herbs on top. Add veggies. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 77
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Rose to the Occasion It’s the perfect time of year to get crafty in the kitchen. Why not start with a simple sangria? BY DANIELLE DONAVAN PHOTOS BY RACHEL HUDACEK
Nothing beats a show-stopping sangria that can easily take any gettogether from dull to lively. This one is easy to make and even tastier than it looks. Winter is full of blues because of the season’s bitter temperatures, but this drink will warm anyone who drinks it. It’s great for multiple functions ranging from girl’s night to game night. Plus, it’s extra bubbly, and who doesn’t love bubbles? Swap the Prosecco and Peach Brandy for sparkling water for a refreshing, non-alcoholic beverage. Either way, the ingredient list is quick and easy to obtain, so there’s no excuse not to make this snazzy sangria.
MATERIALS NEEDED 1 bottle of chilled Prosecco 4 oz. of Peach Brandy 1 cup of raspberries Sliced apples for decoration Rose petals for decoration
STEPS
STEP ONE Combine all liquid ingredients into a clear pitcher of your choice. STEP TWO Add fruit and rose petals to mixed liquid. STEP THREE Chill before serving. Cheers. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 79
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WHO, WHAT, WEAR
A glance into some of Athens’ most captivating people, places, and events. ALONG CAME POLLY /// 88 OUTHREADMAG.COM | 81
BEHIND THE SEAMS
Unbeknownst to most, Ohio University hosts a history-rich collection of garments that stretch over two centuries.
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who, what, wear BY ALEX WARNER PHOTOS BY SPENCER HAWK
EVERY PIECE OF CLOTHING tells a story, and that’s one of the reasons why collection curator Trina Gannon loves working with the Mary C. Doxsee Historic Clothing and Textiles Collection Housed in the Patton College of Education, the collection holds over 2,000 historical costume pieces, including a multitude of women’s uniforms from World War II and beaded flapper dresses from the 1920s. Mary C. Doxsee, a former clothing and textiles professor at Ohio University, was fascinated with collecting historic fabrics, and people noticed. “[They] would just hand her things,” Gannon said of Doxsee. “That’s usually what happens with really any collection. People don’t want it anymore, or [they have] their great-great-grandmother’s turn of the century wedding dress and they want to find somewhere to take it instead of just throwing it away or taking it to Goodwill.” And just like that, Doxsee’s collection unofficially began in 1953 and grew into what it has become today. Gannon, who is also an instructor in retail merchandising and fashion product development at OU, sees the importance of using the collection as a teaching tool. Students could study the fabrics, how seams are
made, and why a piece might be hand-sewn versus machine-sewn. Pieces from the collection could also be used as inspiration for designs and retail spaces. Gannon stressed that the collection isn’t limited to just fashion students. Those studying history, theater, and anthropology could use the collection to study the construction of clothing or the culture behind a certain style. “Clothing is the reflection of what prevailing culture ideas are going on at the time,” Gannon said. Items from the collection date back to the early 1800s. Gannon
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identified an 1820s black, white, and green gingham day dress as the oldest piece in the collection. Equivalent to a modern jeans and T-shirt look, the day dress would have been a casual garment worn by a young, middle-class woman. Gannon said it’s impressive for a small town in Southeast Ohio to have a piece from this time because Ohio became a state only years before in 1803. While the collection is all about preserving historic garments, they have begun to modernize the preservation process by saving item details in a computer program system. In previous
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years, the details of each item were handwritten on index cards and filed away. Like a museum collection, they aren’t constantly accumulating goods all the time. “We look at what we might need. If we don’t have enough day dresses from the early 1900s, then we might accept things like that. We don’t just accumulate goods from just anyone,” Gannon said. The unique story behind a piece of clothing is something that fascinates Gannon most about the collection. One of the recent additions to the collection, a 1951 wedding dress, doesn’t seem out of the ordinary, but the fact
that it was made entirely from silk parachutes from World War II is. During the war, silk was rationed and civilians couldn’t get it because it was being used to make these parachutes. When the war ended, the parachutes were being sold for two dollars each, and the husband, a soldier from World War II, bought five or six parachutes to save for the woman he’d marry. “That was 1946, he ended up marrying this woman in 1951, and she did actually take the parachutes and make a silk wedding dress with it,” Gannon said. It’s stories like these that make Gannon remind people
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“CLOTHING IS THE REFLECTION OF WHAT PREVAILING CULTURE IDEAS ARE GOING ON AT THE TIME.” TRINA GANNON
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that they need to talk to their grandparents, not only to learn about their family histories, but to get the little detailed stories about specific clothing items like quilts and christening gowns. “People really do underestimate the importance of textiles in our lives,” she said. Students can see some of the different items from the collection showcased in an exhibit space on the first floor in the newlyrenovated McCracken Hall. Pieces in the window will change monthly based on themes. Early in the spring semester, the exhibit showcased garments from
prominent women of OHIO such as Irma Voigt, Margaret Walter, Aida O’Bleness, Martha Blackburn, and Violet Patton, all of whom buildings around campus were named after. “Everything in that collection at some point in time had life to it. Somebody cared and loved for that item,” Gannon said. She truly believes textiles are an important part of who we are as individuals and to our daily lives. “That’s why I think it is so important to have a textiles clothing collection at the university because not only can it be used to teach history; it can be used to teach everything else.” OUTHREADMAG.COM | 87
ALONG CAME POLLY What started as a backyard garden soon grew to become a hidden gem of Athens. BY ALEXIS MCCURDY PHOTOS BY LINDSEY LEMONS
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s you enter Hyacinth Bean, a gentle wind hits your face. The faint smell of lavender soothes your nostrils. Vibrant yellows, pinks, reds, and deep greens draw your eyes in all directions. In this place lies the faint feeling of home — a comfort hugging all your senses. Cats purr softly against the thudding of your footsteps. There to greet you is a lady by the name of Polly Creech. Wispy, gray hair frames the wide smile on her face. Her voice is smooth and inviting with a hint of twang.
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who, what, wear
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Creech is the owner of Hyacinth Bean, a store that started in her backyard garden and then transformed into a community staple. A little over 10 years ago, this amiable space was non-existent. Creech was cooped up in an office as the financial director of a company. Instead of trimming stems, Polly was trimming numbers. She was banking, accounting, budgeting, and grantwriting. She was riddled with stress. Desperately looking for a change, she began researching ideas on what to do. Having a friend in the landscaping business, Creech had already begun to plant flowers during her stressful job. She eventually quit her financial job and over time, she started to sell her flowers to other florists, wholesalers, and local farmers’ markets. Then she came to a point where she had to make a decision: either grow flowers fulltime or open up a shop. In 2006, she decided to do the latter. “It was kind of a natural progression of that personal interest in plants and flowers that just blossomed,” Creech said. Selling a wide range of flowers and plants such as succulents, cacti, bamboo, and more, Creech designed the store to be an active source of interaction for the community, whether it be customer engagement during the design process or community outreach. “One of my underlying 90 | THREAD
principles was being able to become a part of the community in such a way that I could support the community and the community could support me,” Creech said. Since making that decision, Creech has made donations to nonprofits such as Planned Parenthood, Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers Big Sisters, United Campus Ministries, and Athens Photographic Project. Creech also makes an effort to buy advertising in local school newspapers and yearbooks. She said it is this bond with the community that makes her work meaningful. Furthering this bond, Hyacinth Bean fosters cats for the Athens Humane Society until they can be adopted. The cats roam free around the store: hiding, purring, and tugging at the fingertips and heartstrings of customers. In a corner sits a chair adorned by blankets and pillows where customers can pet and play with the cats. Creech said many just come in to relax with the animals during lunch breaks. Two years ago, Valorie Worthy walked in to Hyacinth Bean, and immediately felt the pleasantness. Through many conversations,Worthy and Creech became friends. Valorie eventually adopted a kitten from Hyacinth. “It’s eclectic. It’s a magical place, a heavenly place. It’s a place of endless curiosity. The store is just like Polly: remarkable and imaginative,” Worthy said. “It’s one of Athens’ treasures.”
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who, what, wear
Hyacinth Bean also supports local artists by letting them sell their art in the store. Various jewelry, hats, clothes, candles, blown glass, and ceramics — Hyacinth Bean has it all. Creech said she does this to let the artists focus on art — she’ll worry about the retail. If you ask Worthy and her co-worker Meredith Thomas to describe Creech, they’ll both have one word: warm. Worthy said Creech is also many things: vibrant, affectionate, dedicated, patient, knowledgeable. But Creech is also a great employer. Thomas has been a Hyacinth employee for almost two years. Thomas says Creech is what makes working at Hyacinth so attractive and enjoyable. Staffers are “encouraged to be creative.” Creech’s talents in designing are what also fascinate Thomas. “She creates these arrangements stem by stem with such an eye for detail,” Thomas said. “She’s just such a great designer.” Creech cares for her employees outside of the workplace as well. Thomas fondly recalls Creech making her wedding bouquet very thoughtfully. “It was just like my personality: big and bright. There was purple, red, yellow, and all these deep saturated colors. It was kind of like tie-dye, which I love,” Thomas said.
Afterwards, Creech took flowers from the bouquet, as well pieces of Thomas’ wedding dress, which was also her mother’s, and crafted a wreath as a wedding gift — a handmade memory. Creech’s thoughtfulness is apparent in other orders as well. For example, for memorial services, Creech asks customers if they would like the arrangements customized. She has even made a cowboy boot flower arrangement. Creech enjoys this variety in creativity. Every day the phone rings bringing a new opportunity to create, which is “endlessly fascinating” to her. Being a member of Teleflora, a network of florists, allows Creech to get flowers from around the world, no matter the season. This, in turn, gives her more creative freedom. No matter if guests come in the store to purchase, or just to chat, Creech wants them to know one important thing. “We welcome any customer, regardless,” Creech said. “Last year we probably did 10 weddings of same-sex couples. So I would want customers to know that they don’t have to worry about being turned away, that we would welcome business from anyone who might be turned away somewhere else. No matter how small or how big the purchase is, we’re happy to have them.”
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FEM FOR ALL BY JACKIE OSBORNE PHOTOS BY KELLY WALLACE
The Women’s Center at Ohio University promotes a positive experience full of diversity and culture, while inviting women into a safe atmosphere to be themselves.
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ucked away in the corner bulletin boards, with student-made of the fourth floor of Ohio artwork, hundreds of books, and a University’s Baker Center is “famous” purple couch. an office. More than an office and a The Women’s Center Office safe space — it’s a home. A home for Diversity and Inclusion is full that is filled with bright colors and of spunk. From lip balm at the
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front desk with a label that reads “Caution: May cause you to speak your mind,” to a scale that gives a compliment instead of one’s weight, the whole office specializes in empowering women as they walk through the front door. “The Women’s Center is more than an office in the sense that we don’t want to be set up where
people are behind closed doors working on their computers. We love the open office where it feels like more of a home,” said Dr. Geneva Murray, director of the Women’s Center. Murray found her way to Ohio University after four universities and a journey around the world. She attended Texas Tech for her OUTHREADMAG.COM | 95
undergraduate in psychology, went to George Washington University for a master’s degree in public policy with a concentration in women’s studies, and traveled across the world to the University of York in England for her doctorate in women’s studies. Following her education, she spent time in the Netherlands before moving back to the U.S. to work at the Women’s Center of the University of Wisconsin. Murray’s role as director closely follows the mission of the Women’s Center by reaching out to the staff and students of Ohio University to promote awareness, education, and advocacy for women, gender, and diversity. This involves engaging with a wide variety of people and asking them difficult questions. “Our goal is for people to come to their own ideas and feel comfortable with that because they’ve examined an issue from different facets,” Murray said. Another way the Women’s Center reaches out to the people of Athens is through a myriad of programs that they offer, such as ‘highly-caffeinated themed conversations,’ a current film series on race, gender, and culture, and a mentoring program for women. The Women’s Mentoring Program began in 2009, and since then has offered hundreds of women the chance to be paired as mentor/mentees to promote both personal and 96 | THREAD
professional development. The Women’s Center brings together sophomore, junior, and senior undergraduates at OU and professional women of the Athens community. The pairs come together once a month, but some meet once a week. Many topics covered in these mentoring relationships include helping with the graduate school application process, building confidence in one’s professional life, and developing interviewing skills to help secure internships. Danielle McCarthy, a senior studying strategic communication, joined the Women’s Mentoring Program as a junior. At the same time, she went through an academic transition that her
Dr. Geneva Murray, director of the Women’s Center
mentor guided her through. “She was able to help me by suggesting people to talk to or organizations to look into, things like that,” McCarthy said. Not only has she enjoyed having her mentor there to support her, but she has also enjoyed getting to know her mentor as a friend. “Most of the time we spend together is talking about our lives. She is really a great friend and a great person I can look to if I ever need support,” McCarthy said.
Another important event for the Women’s Center is International Women’s Day Festival, an afternoon full of food, vendors, and performers. In the past, there has even been a fashion show. Emily Dacquisto, program coordinator for the Women’s Center, said the preparations for the festival began several months ago, and they are now looking forward to see it come together. “International Women’s Day Festival is such a great way to celebrate and appreciate women globally. I think that’s something that all genders can do, be there to empower women and spend an afternoon celebrating women,” Dacquisto said. The theme for this year’s OUTHREADMAG.COM | 97
festival — the eighth annual one put on by the Women’s Center — is “Make A Difference.” It will be in Baker Ballroom from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. March 19. An ongoing program that the Women’s Center supports is a film series, where once a month a film focusing on race, gender, or diversity is shown and sometimes followed by a panel. These films help students and staff learn more about diversity and culture while also providing an academic benefit for some students whose professors encourage them to attend.
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who, what, wear
“A film can be a great way for people to experience diversity on campus and learn in that way. And when we do things like have a panel, I think that can enrich the discussion even further,” Dacquisto said. An event the Women’s Center has prepared for is the chosen March film, “No Mas Bebes,” a movie about the forced sterilization of women in southern California in the ’60s and ’70s. The Women’s Center is partnering with the Scripps College of Communication’s “90 Minutes” program, where a speaker comes
in to Ohio University to discuss the event in history. This year, the film will be followed by a panel that will include the director of “No Mas Bebes,” Renee Tajima-Pena. Above all, the Women’s Center dedicates its time to making sure it has the chance to get to know the diverse women on campus. “Just come and visit us. We will always make time with people to see how we can get them connected,” Murray said. Together, they can work on the most important mission of all: Making the world a safer place for women.
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DOWN THE
rabbit hole PHOTOS BY KINSEY BALL
Tick tock, tick tock. Don’t be late for this very important date.
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QUEEN BEE PHOTOS BY EVAN LEONARD
Fly on from the hive mind mentality and bee yourself, honey.
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Destination
Unknown
PHOTOS BY JENNA WALLACE
Pack your bags for the wide, open road to your next destination.
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Mirror Image PHOTOS BY CAITLYN WITHERS
No need for a double take — the reflection is you.
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SIX LOOKS WE LIKE: ON A
RAINY DAY PHOTOS BY ISAAC GIBSON
Rain, rain, go away. We’ve got you set to be the sunshine on a cloudy day.
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CAMPUS CASUAL Lighthearted reads for the quiz-taking, listicle reading, horoscope believin’ spirit in all of us. WHICH TV FASHION ICON ARE YOU? /// 186
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HOROSCOPES:
Love and Dating BY KENYETTA WHITFIELD
February is regarded by many as the “Love Month.” It is a time for new kisses, romantic getaways with lovers, and possibly eating chocolates alone while watching romantic comedies. However, once Valentine’s Day is behind us the quest for the perfect date could still remain on our minds. Are you looking for new Tinder adventures or the infamous “one?” No matter what’s on your love agenda, the stars are here to help you on your journey to springtime romance. AQUARIUS (JAN 20 — FEB 18)
You’re great at dating, Aquarius. You are interesting, engaging, and your quirks keep everyone interested. You’re more than just a good date though, you have the potential to be a great partner to anyone you’d like to be with. You just have to show your mushy side a bit more. Riveting conversation about music and politics is great, but sometimes a deep emotional moment is what stands between a good date and a potential sweetie.
PISCES (FEB 19 — MAR 20)
Life for you is always fantastical, Pisces. Which is not necessarily a bad thing, but it may get you in trouble one of these days. Before you go romanticizing a potential partner, make sure you are both on the same page. If you don’t, you could end up heartbroken wishing to retreat back to your fantasy land. Communication isn’t scary, and it could make a potential relationship better than your wildest dreams.
TAURUS (APR 20 — MAY 20)
As a very territorial and possessive lover, navigating romance can be hard for you, Taurus. That is why you should prepare yourself for some uncomfortable moments in the near future. Your current romantic interest just might become a little too chummy with a close friend causing you to face your most hated enemy – change. But don’t fret, it is time to learn that change can be a good thing and it could open the door to a new cutie. 172 | THREAD
ARIES (MAR 21 — APR 19)
Aries, your quest for love is just that – a quest. Which is good for you considering that you are a natural born leader that has a zest for the adventurous life. Any lover of yours has to be able to accept that you are eccentric and cannot be tied down. What does that mean? Well, when looking for the next apple of your eye, look for someone hanging out around the adventure who appears to need a little fire in their life. You are very fiery after all.
GEMINI (MAY 21 — JUN 20)
You’re a lucky one when it comes to love, Gemini. Being the social butterfly that you are comes in handy for a variety of reasons including getting the number of that cutie at the bar you always frequent. When it comes time to find a new snuggle buddy, make sure you put your flirtatious nature to work and capture the eyes of someone new – it’ll definitely be worth it.
CANCER (JUN 21 — JUL 22)
It probably gets annoying how often you get told you are emotional, Cancer, but it’s just the truth. However, it could be your biggest asset when it comes to love. Your partner always knows how you feel and can really be attuned to your needs. It also means that if you are single, those interested can see you wear your heart on your sleeve. Don’t start hiding your emotions now, even if an old flame told you it can be a burden. You are loveable just as you are.
VIRGO (AUG 23 — SEPT 22)
Your quest for perfection is never over Virgo and that includes when it comes to love. It’s time to throw out your checklist of traits for your next suitor and just let life take over. The cashier at your favorite coffee shop could be the caramel to your macchiato and you’ll never know until you take a step back, stop planning, and breathe. Love is not a game you play which means you have to stop trying to study the rules.
SCORPIO (OCT 23 — NOV 21)
Scorpio, if you want to find the love of your life, or at least of the moment, then you have to give a little. Your mysterious ways aren’t going to do you any favors in the romance department and unless you are interested in a complete narcissist, you’re going to be asked to talk about yourself. Start opening up to your new friend from class or work and see what happens. The results could be lovely.
LEO (JUL 23 — AUG 22)
Leo, you are and will always be the Queen Bee of the clique. Whether your clique is your family, friends, or your relationship. This tendency to command attention works out well sometimes if your partner is confident enough in themselves to let you shine, but be self-reflective, Leo. Maybe next time you see your crush or your love, take the drama down a few notches? You’ll still be the Queen and it might even score you cool points with a new boo.
LIBRA (SEPT 23 — OCT 22)
Whether you are single, taken, or just confused, you are destined for wonderful romance, Libra. You are a peacemaker, a partner, and a social being all of which make people gravitate towards you. Expect plenty of interested potential partners to make their way towards you and cling to your fun personality and easy going nature. Don’t feel obligated to commit to anyone however, you do best when you do things without pressure.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV 22 — DEC 21)
Reckless Sagittarius, can you be tamed? If not, maybe that is a sign that it is time to find someone just as excited about life as you are. Next time you are channeling your inner child pay attention to who is joining you in the fun. They might be the Bonnie to your Clyde, your partner in your passion-filled life. At the very least they may make a great date!
CAPRICORN (DEC 22 — JAN 19)
It is okay to be affectionate, Capricorn. It is a well known fact that you have a desire to provide for those you love or care for but sometimes a kiss or handwritten note says it best. Your partner may feel more like your work project at times than your lover and that is no way to feel in a loving relationship. Next time you have the urge to act practical, consider doing something frivolous and romantic. It’ll really show your sweetie how you feel.
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RULES NOT REQUIRED True fashionistas aren’t afraid to play around with the rules and walk on the wild side. BY COURTNEY ADAMS PHOTOS BY PROVIDED
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t seems that since the inception of mainstream fashion, there have been universal rules dictating the do’s and don’ts, almost like a how-to-guide. White pants are acceptable, but a fashion faux pas after Labor Day. Socks with sandals are never allowed unless gracing the feet of old men at the beach and clashing colors like navy and black or are a no-go. But over time, these don’ts have become acceptable do’s. Say goodbye to the days of fashion’s strict rules. The new generation of fashion aficionados are all about letting anything and everything go.
SOCKS & SANDALS
This combination has always been a staple for athletes making their way to-and-from the locker room, but the sporty combo can be seen all over the runway and in magazines. Celebrities like Justin Bieber, David Beckham, and the Olsen twins have all been seen wearing wearing the fad. The comfort and flexibility of sandals and the lightweight nature of socks makes the unlikely duo a trend appropriate for any mild temperature.
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BIRKENSTOCKS Once an exclusively dadesque shoe, Birkenstocks now grace the feet of plenty of millennial trendsetters. The comfortable shoes come in a plethora of colors and are a goto at any time of the year. Julianne Moore, Naomi Watts, and Alexa Chung have all been seen wearing different versions of the shoes and with vastly different outfits. Julianne Moore paired hers with a denim jacket and loose gray pants, while Naomi Watts was seen sporting a more bohemian style with loose harem pants and a purple tank. Model Heidi Klum has even designed a line with the company making it a definite fashion do. WHITE AFTER LABOR DAY Wearing white after Labor Day has always been the unofficial face of fashion don’ts. Whether it’s being mentioned on a popular TV show or in a magazine, just about everyone knows it is a big no-no. But even the oldest laws can be overturned and it seems like wearing white is making a
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comeback. As a neutral color, it can easily be incorporated into outfits without fear of overkill. The color adds a crisp cool look to any outfit. One of the most popular ensembles may be a pair of white skinny jeans with just about any top. CLASHING COLORS Another well known fashion faux pas would be mixing clashing colors. Colors black and navy tend to be the notably criticized combination, but today they are making a fashion-forward comeback. According to GQ magazine, you can wear black and blue at an assortment of events, in the office, on your off day and even during a date night, proving that no color pairing can remain off limits forever. Fashion is an art form, and as such, its rules are meant to be broken, messed with, and recreated. Whether through footwear or accessories, the most successful fashionistas aren’t afraid to play around with the rules and walk on the wild
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Alternative Impact Tired of shopping at the same stores time and time again? Consider shopping small for an experience unlike any other. BY RYLIE BROWN PHOTOS BY PROVIDED
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hopping at a mall tends to be fast, simple, and fairly inexpensive, but a trip there isn’t exactly an out-of-thebox experience. Many consumers do not realize that there is a world of small business alternatives waiting to be discovered beyond their local mall. Often, small businesses are more ethical and
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of a better quality because they make their products with love and passion rather than cranking out millions of copies at a factory. Taking the time to research new, small businesses requires effort, but consumers will reap serious benefits from cheaper dupes, healthier skin care, and ethical clothing alternatives.
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FOXIE COSMETICS It’s a well-known fact that Lush Cosmetics makes fresh, handmade products. The brand is best known for their lip scrubs, body washes and one of their most popular products — the bath bomb. However, LUSH isn’t the only place for a bath bomb enthusiast to get their fix. In 2015, vegan skin care extraordinaire , Kayla Phillips, or Foxie, started Foxie Cosmetics with the goal to handcraft “feel good” products for the body, skin,
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and hair. The online store sells handmade bath bombs, skin and hair products, and most recently perfumes. Despite being a onewoman show, Foxie Cosmetics offers an impressive selection of products and vows to stick to vegan ingredients that help soothe aches and pains. Perhaps Foxie’s best seller is the infamous Foxie Bomb, which can be compared to LUSH’s bath bomb.
campus casual
SAUCE BOX Founded by a mother-daughter duo in 2010, SauceBox channels a zeal for makeup and a zest for “attitude and inner selfexpression.� The store offers handmade, highly-pigmented eyeshadows and highlighters in addition to their selection of beauty sponges that mirror the well-known Beauty Blender. Their alternative, the Complexion Wiz, rings in at around nine dollars, nearly a third of the price of the Beauty Blender, and has the same
pink hue while accomplishing the soft, lightweight, and easy-tohandle quality that launched the Beauty Blender into the limelight. Since SauceBox offers a limited amount of products, customers can easily see the difference in quality as opposed to quantity. SauceBox continues to innovate their products and create a brand that they can be proud of, so make sure you take a peek before you decide to head to the mall.
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EVERLANE Fast fashion retailers are convenient for basic and simple looks, but they aren’t the only retailer to offer simple, stylish, and inexpensive threads. Everlane is a shop dedicated to what they call “radical transparency.” The online boutique allows customers to see how much a product costs the company to make as well as their retail markup. Everlane
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offers an array of simple wardrobe staples that can typically be found in stores like H&M. In addition to their specialized marketing concept, they donate five dollars from every item sold to the American Civil Liberties Union. Everlane’s transparency makes it an enticing place to shop and feels as good on you as it does on your conscious.
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Which TV Fashion Icon Are You? ¨ ILLUSTRATIONS BY SAMANTHA GUT
Would you describe your style as being: A. Classic, preppy, and polished B. Upscale business professional C. Funky and original D. An ode to the ’90s
Your signature outfit staple is: A. A collared shirt B. A skirt suit C. A tulle tutu D. A spaghetti strap top
You’re a sucker for:
A. A flouncy skirt paired with tights B. Anything faux fur C. Eccentric patterns D. Layered looks
Which of the following would be your fashion motto: A. Classic never goes out of style B. Coco Chanel can teach you anything C. Taking risks always pays off D. Retro is always trendy
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Mostly A’s = Blair Waldorf (Gossip Girl) You’re a regular J. Crew model. You, like Miss Waldorf, have a love for all things preppy and classic. Just remember, what would Blair Waldorf do?
Mostly B’s = Wilhelmina Slater (Ugly Betty) You love classic looks that could be transitioned from the office to the bar. Slater’s style was inspired by Anna Wintour and you’d do anything to have her wardrobe.
Mostly C’s = Carrie Bradshaw (Sex and the City) You love to take risks and break rules. Much like Carrie, there isn’t a fashion look you’re scared to try and you’ll rock them proudly.
Mostly D’s = Rachel Greene (Friends) You love the ’90s and everything that came with it. Layering is your specialty and you’re not afraid to take an outfit from feminine to edgy. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 187
Q&A WITH THE
BLOGGER OF THE MONTH:
Chronicling everything from organization tips to the best places to online shop, Jessica gives readers a sneak peek into her time here at Ohio University.
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WHAT’S YOUR BLOG ABOUT?
I’m still trying to find my perfect niche, but if you visit my blog you’ll find anything from DIY to food to travel.
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THREE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE YOU?
WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
New places, good music, and people who are passionate about what they do. I love going on long drives to find inspiration!
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WHERE DO YOU LOOK FOR INSPIRATION?
I really admire the vlog channel “Lavendaire.’ She’s created such a positive vibe to her channel. Monica Church is another vlogger I follow. I love her cinematic style of doing things!
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blogger of the month
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FAVORITE TOPIC TO WRITE ABOUT?
Any lifestyle topic that can be transformed into a list (or anything that involves a lot of photos)!
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FAVORITE THING ABOUT BLOGGING?
There are no boundaries and you are your own boss!
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BEST ORGANIZATIONAL/ LIFESTYLE TIP?
Honestly, stay busy! It may sound weird, but the busier I am, the happier I am.
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FAVORITE PART OF OU?
I just love the atmosphere and beauty of the whole city of Athens. It’s unique!
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WHAT’S A GOAL FOR YOUR BLOG?
I would love to dive into vlogging, but a definite goal is to post more often.
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FAVORITE PART OF WORKING WITH THREAD?
I truly love all aspects of Thread, but I think it’s really great that we have so much creative freedom.
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Foundation Representation BY KAYLA BEARD PHOTOS BY AILSA HECKSCHER
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For clean, professional-looking makeup, quality foundation is essential. Sadly, some find the color of their skin may limit their buying options.
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efore the liner is winged, before the brows are highlighted, before the powder is baked — an even layer of foundation is applied to every full face of makeup. Everyone’s skin is different, so there should be a foundation that suits everyone’s skin and cosmetic needs. Liquid foundation or BB cream may work well for dry skin, while a matte formula or powder may work better for oily skin. To meet the needs of consumers with various skin types, makeup brands try to offer a variety of foundation types and formulas. In the same way that each face behaves differently, each person’s skin tone is different as well. People come in a variety of colors, and as the world becomes more integrated and more
diverse, the need for even more foundation shades continues to increase. And even though people have existed in a variety of shades for millennia, the makeup industry is just beginning to catch up to the demand. Most drugstore makeup aisles have limited color options, and finding a good shade to perfectly match every skin tone is nearly impossible. Kaitlin Litvak, a junior at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, often struggles to find shades to match her very fair complexion. “I’ll usually head to Ulta or Sephora,” she said. “I always shop for foundation in-store versus online, so that I can swatch the shades.” Larger beauty supply retailers like Sephora carry a lot of high quality brands, which often provide a larger shade selections. But not
everyone’s college student budget can handle a $60 bottle of miracle product. The problem, Litvak said, is that most drugstores do not allow instore sampling of products. And, for someone outside of the narrow spectrum of shades typically represented on store shelves, it’s easy to buy the wrong one. Aliyah Baskind, a senior at Ohio University, said she prefers to shop at drugstores to save money, but is willing to splurge on a product she knows she can trust. “The problem I run into a lot is that the lightest shade available isn’t very light at all, even though it’s named something like ‘Porcelain’ or ‘Ivory,’” Baskind said. This problem is most prevalent among the low-end brands. “Ladies with my skin tone and lighter — yes, OUTHREADMAG.COM | 193
it’s possible,” she said jokingly, “are forced to buy more expensive foundations from high-end brands that sometimes have a wider shade range.” For women of color, finding the right shade can be near impossible. “I usually buy my foundation from CVS or Rite Aid because they have cheaper stuff,” said Ohio University junior and Campus Casual Editor of Thread, Kenyetta Whitfield, who knows all about the struggle attached to shade variety when it comes to drugstore foundations. “I have purchased the wrong shade so many times in my life. [Once] I went to a beauty supply store and bought a NYX foundation. The color was called ‘deep,’ but it was tan.” It would be easy for consumers to think that makeup color scientists aren’t scientists at all, based on how often shades don’t seem to look right. “My mom’s foundation, 194 | THREAD
“I HAVE BOUGHT MANY A FOUNDATION THAT [HAVE] NOT WORKED FOR MY SKIN TONE. IN ORDER TO MAKE THESE PRODUCTS LOOK BETTER, I HAVE MIXED THEM WITH PRODUCTS I ALREADY OWNED TO GET A BETTER COLOR.” DENEEN WATSON
two of the three that she uses … I would call them orangebrown instead of brown-orange. They are very orange,” Whitfield said. Litvak agreed that makeup shades aren’t always skincolored. “I do a lot of stage makeup for other people, and I always notice that darker browns have a weird orange tint to them,” she said. And it’s not just the brown colors that are off. “The shades can definitely be weird,”
Baskind said. “Even if they are light enough, a lot of the time paler foundations are super cool-toned and/ or pink based, so people like me with warm or neutral undertones look super washed out.” But if color-matching is a problem for so many people, why is it still so difficult to find quality shades? In the 21st century, the intent for inclusivity is present: the know-how simply is not.
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According to a 1987 New York Times piece, Avon hired a scientist decades ago to analyze skin tones and Avon’s own line of available colors, and the studies found 200 different skin tones. While the arti196 | THREAD
cle didn’t say whether these shades were very far apart from one another, color shades are determined numerically, and there could be 50 shades of creamto-beige alone. The fact is, makeup brands have been,
for a while now, trying to find ways to create more color variety and reach more consumer needs. And as the industry itself becomes more diverse, so do the options for people of all shades. Chemist Balanda
Atis, manager of L’Oreal’s Women of Color Lab, was the innovator behind the Lancôme Teint Idole line of foundation, and was responsible for the specific formula used to create Lupita Nyong’o’s perfect shade.
Atis studied women from 57 different countries of origin and found over 20,000 different skin tone measurements. Her work allowed L’Oreal to create over 30 shades, upgrading both their drugstore brands, like Maybel-
line, as well as their higher-end Lancôme collections. Thanks to her innovations, a new future in makeup for women of color could be on the rise. Along with a broader color spectrum comes innovations for women of all shades. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 197
Whitfield used to use a CoverGirl product from its Queen selection, which launched in 2007 thanks to the collaboration of the makeup brand with rapper and actress Queen Latifah and makeup artist Roxanna Floyd. The line targets black women specifically
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and offers a range of rich, deep colors, including Q865, a rich chocolate shade and Whitfield’s best match. Sadly, since moving to the Athens area, her shade has been harder to find. Drugstores stock colors based on the demographic information they
have about the area. Thus, in rural Athens, there aren’t a lot of darker color options. Still, as technology becomes smarter and more accessible, consumers are finding it easier to purchase makeup for their own complexion. Whitfield
Which Brands are your Go-Tos?
DENEEN WATSON
COVER FX NARS BOBBI BROWN BLACK OPAL SEPHORA
KAITLIN LITVAK
SEPHORA MAKEUP FOREVER TARTE KAT VON D
KENYETTA WHITFIELD
BLACK OPAL BLACK UP BLACK RADIANCE COVERGIRL QUEEN
ALIYAH BASKIND L’OREAL KAT VON D
“AND AS THE NATION BECOMES MORE DIVERSE AND BRANDS EXPAND THEIR CONSUMER BASE ACROSS THE GLOBE, WHAT SOME WOULD CALL THE ‘STANDARD SHADES’ SPECTRUM CONTINUES TO EXPAND.”
highly recommends taking advantage of modern advancements. “Go online. Search colors that have worked for you in the past,” she says. Whitfield uses Match My Makeup, a tool created by makeup professionals which allows users to match the
foundation shades they use across different brands. “That has been my saving grace,” she said. Indeed, makeup artists have been the driving force behind some of the shade innovations taking place at major brands. The multicultural beauty
market in the U.S. is the fastest growing market in the industry. And as the nation becomes more diverse and brands expand their consumer base across the globe, what some would call the “standard shades” spectrum continues to expand.
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The Comeback Clothes
The reintroduction of platform shoes and the rise in popularity of Mom’s favorite jean fit from the ’90s are not merely a product of coincidence. BY LYNANNE VUCOVICH PHOTOS BY ANNA VENTRE
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rends in the fashion industry come and go, but fashion followers are never without one for too long before it finds its way back into the mainstream. According to Savoir Flair, the Middle East’s first online fashion and culture magazine, trends are first developed by manufacturers because they determine what textiles are mass produced for clothing and accessory pieces. The manufacturers are supported by specialists who pass on the textiles to fashion designers, who then interpret them into new and unique trends. Participants and supporters of that trend cycle stand by the idea that trends aren’t established by an individual or by chance, although some believe that at one time, they were. A July 2015 Bustle article cited two sociological theories that explain trends; the first is based on social status. “As fashion trends trickle down from the high echelons of society, like fashion houses and celebrities, across from other countries or up from urban fashion, ‘street style,’ or punks,” the article said. “They allow us to demonstrate our wealth and hipness through emulation.” By that theory, trends begin when someone, or some place of influence, steps outside of the box and takes a style risk. Eventually people begin to see the risk as fashionable and it is translated into styles on the runway. Popular culture then catches on, and the trend is reinforced through mainstream media, therefore increas202 | THREAD
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ing its demand. At that point, the trend is normalized and mass produced by fast-fashion companies to be widely accessible. Eventually, buyers and designers pursue new trends and the old phase out of popularity. Bustle cited a second theory known as the conflict theory, which claims that fashion houses create as many trends as they can to maximize profit. This concept is based on fear and image. It’s easy to get worried about falling behind with what’s popular, and the fear of missing out pushes consumers to go out and purchase new items. Such rapid repurchasing ensures that more money goes into the fashion industry and the cycle repeats itself. Another of the many official
explanations of fashion trends is the 20-year trend cycle: a textbook fashion theory that implies that trends come up, fade away, and in 20 years or so, reappear in a new way. According to Vocativ, a online publication dedicated to visual storytelling and research, the cycle seems to have reigned true in the recent return of dated trends such as Dr. Martens, fringe details, and crop tops. That doesn’t mean that new trends are exactly the same as they were in the past, but even with modern twists, it’s clear to see where the inspiration was drawn from. Platform shoes were the token footwear of the 1970s. They had elements similar to clogs, and usually featured lace-up ties in the front. They ranged
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in color, height, and style and were often worn by icons of the decade like artists Jane Birkin and David Bowie. Birkin styled her platforms with bell-bottoms and usually a fitted white blouse, inspired by Parisian fashion. The shoes seemed to disappear for a while after the ’70s, but made a return in the 1990s. The ’90s take on the platform held similar qualities to those of 20 years prior, but there was more variety. Designers transformed sneakers into platforms, like Creepers, which feature thick crepe soles often with suede tops, as well as more classic boot and sandal-style platforms, which were made famous by the way they were owned — and fiercely danced in — by the Spice Girls. Platforms may have said they “Wannabe” in style forever, but not even Posh Spice could force them to stay. Although the hit English pop girl group didn’t come up with them, 20 years later, platform shoes have returned to popular culture. Sandals, sneakers, and boots all feature a contemporary platform twist to their classic styles. Holographic and clear strapped platform sandals with ridged bottoms are popping up on the streets, and major sneaker companies are re-adopting the trend. Well-known brands like Vans and Adidas have created their own versions of the platform sneaker. Amelia Meath, one-half of the up-and-coming indie-pop music duo Sylvan Esso, 204 | THREAD
commonly wears platform sneakers while performing. She has a black, white, and even leopard print pair, which helps to keep the trend alive — for now. Influential bands, like Nirvana and The Pixies, inspired trends of the ’90s that can be grouped together under the grunge style genre: oversized flannels, highrise jeans, stripes, and beanies were some staples. These trends made their way from the stage to the runway in Perry Ellis’ spring 1993 collection. Designed by Marc Jacobs, it was highly con-
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troversial at first, but proved to be before its time. Jacobs drew inspiration from what he saw, and developed it into high fashion using pastel colors and high quality fabrics. The collection was widely disputed throughout the industry, and even caused Jacobs to lose his position at Perry Ellis. However, despite the initial blowback, the show was pivotal and grunge style persisted on and off the runways. Style icons Courtney Love and Drew Barrymore were some of the enthusiasts of the time that carried it through the decade. Choker necklaces, often thought of as a ’90s trend, actually rode out the 20-year trend cycle far before they were donned by Britney Spears and Winona Ryder — and they’re back again. Chokers have been worn by women for centuries, dating back to ancient Egypt. In the Victorian age, chokers were referred to as collars, and featured intricate embellishments. In the 1920s, they made a return during the Flapper movement, and again in the ’70s with the Hippie movement. A notable outfit from 1970s actress and singer Raquel Welch featured a thick banded choker with feather and bead details paired with a peasant dress and high-rise boots. Different variations of the necklace continue to show up on the runways, and on celebrities and popular bloggers: bands of diamonds,
bands with embellishments and hanging details, and thicker bands all have made appearances. As the influence social media has on the fashion industry continues to rise, the cycle and presentation of trends is becoming less black and white. Models like Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid have serious impact on and off the runway thanks to their personal social media accounts. Reality star and young businesswoman Kylie Jenner has the power to start a trend with a single post on Instagram, and plenty of fashion bloggers have proven that anyone has the ability to build a following on social media. Individuals are now able to pick and choose what they’d like to see more of, and in a way, they decide what’s on-trend. The fashion industry has experienced many evolutions and trend cycles in just the 21st century, and there’s no telling where it will go next.
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BACK OF THE CLOSET An in-depth look at today’s most buzz-worthy topics. PERSONAL DAY /// 216
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Behind Closed Doors
The typical mall environment is going out of style as many American corporations declare bankruptcy due to the competitive nature that is online shopping. BY COLLEEN HOWARD PHOTOS BY PROVIDED
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ll good things must come to an end. This includes the lives of many major fashion corporations such as American Apparel, NastyGal, and The Limited. As they plummet into bankruptcy, along with other associated troubles, many are beginning to wonder why these companies have reached their demise. From the meager means of a dorm room where American
Apparel’s Dov Charney first developed the idea for his popular attire to now, nearly 20 years later, the company has revealed the buy-out of his creation. A January 2017 Marie Claire piece revealed that American Apparel officially announced that they will shut their doors permanently. Their closure will result in thousands of layoffs and the cessation of the largest sewing factory in North
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America, and the assumption is that more American companies are on the track that American Apparel is paving. For instance, The Limited, although they haven’t made any official claims of bankruptcy, has decided to close all of its 250 stores. The retail website, however, will remain online for shopping. This occurred despite the company’s best efforts to promote the failing company, such as utilizing spokespeople Eva Longoria and Kerry Washington as marketing tools. Even department stores like Macy’s have seen the unfortunate happenings that are affecting fellow shopping mall-frequent stores. What has been considered one of America’s best department stores is closing 68 stores “as it 212 | THREAD
battles slowing sales and growing online competition,” according to Business Insider. NastyGal, a predominantly online shop — with the exception of two brick-and-mortars in California — has recently been in the news, not only for a Netflix series premiere based on the lavish lifestyle of creator Sophia Amoruso, but for the reality her company is now facing. The company has recently undergone legal troubles, as well as the absence of many executives, including investor Danny Rimer who invested almost $50 million in the brand, according to The New York Times. NastyGal has also filed for bankruptcy. Amoruso parted ways with a tweet from her personal account (@sophiaamoruso): “A
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decade above the influence. Onward babies. I love you.” At some point, the question of why these companies have seen so much hardship amongst the flourishing nature of their competitors must be grappled with. Bustle accurately portrayed the fall of American Apparel: “The close might not come as a shock to some, as the brand has been surrounded with a number of controversies over the years — from their objectifying ads that glorify the male gaze to allegations of sexual assault within the company,” the article said. It seems as though there are many connections between the failing of certain brands and why malls have also seen a recent decrease in consumers. A Forbes magazine article blamed online
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”A DECADE ABOVE THE INFLUENCE. ONWARD BABIES. I LOVE YOU” SOPHIA AMORUSO
shopping and said that, “the internet continues to eat into brick-and-mortar sales.” The fondness that so many once held for a grand shopping mall packed with up-and-coming stores has dissipated. With the increase of digital stores, people are more likely to turn toward online shopping as a source of comfort and convenience. With the ease of shopping at home and on the go, many “mall owners rush to get out of the mall business,” according to The
Wall Street Journal. The future seems dim for many other brickand-mortar shops. If society’s consumer behavior is typically predictable, has the pace of these large corporations begun to bore shoppers into submission? Have consumers become so accustomed to the experience of online shopping that the idea of physically visiting a store is
leading to a lack of sales? It’s unclear if a solution will be presented to avoid rendering any more corporate losses such as the ones that have already reached their end. However, brands like NastyGal and The Limited that have had, or are close to, their finale, shouldn’t be diminished for the success they saw at the height of their businesses. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 215
Personal Day Self-care applies to the care and keeping of one’s mind and body. There are an infinite variety of self-care practices, unique to each individual’s needs. BY JULIE RHODES PHOTOS BY RACHEL HUDACHEK
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hen it comes to selfcare we tend to think about bubble baths, fizzy, fragranced bath bombs from LUSH Cosmetics, and, of course, luxurious face masks. But really, what does it mean to practice self-care? Does it mean taking a trip to Sephora and indulging in beauty products? Does it call for some fashion therapy via hours of online shopping? According to Dictionary. com, it means “to care for oneself without professional consultation.” Self-care isn’t meant to be just skin-deep. Of course taking care of our outer shell is important, but it’s easy to forget about the interior. In a Journal of Participatory Medicine article titled “An Introduction to Self-Care,” author and psychiatrist, Sana Johnson-Quijada, who specializes in self-care, wrote that “self-care is living consistently with the belief that [people] are a friend to ‘Me,’ or in other words, to themselves.” In the article, Johnson-Quijada expressed the hope that each of her patients practice being his or her own advocate, and that it’s important for patients to know their value as people. Self-care applies to the mind and the body. It’s virtually anything that promotes personal well being, inside and out. Sitting outside on a bench and people watching because it’s relaxing, or making that extraOUTHREADMAG.COM | 217
“SELF CARE IS LIVING CONSISTENTLY WITH THE BELIEF THAT [PEOPLE] ARE A FRIEND TO ‘ME’ OR IN OTHER WORDS, TO THEMSELVES” SANA JOHNSON-QUIJADA
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large cup of tea as a self-proclaimed pick-me-up, are all simple ways to practice self-care every day. Everyone interprets self-care differently; self-care is a unique journey, a one-passenger adventure of relaxation and awareness. It’s not something to be ashamed of — it’s something to own, no matter how simple or complex. “Staying limber, taking vitamins, and moisturizing is my key to living a long, healthy, and caring life,” Jenna Delost, an Ohio University senior, said. Delost’s idea of selfcare is visiting the nearest yoga studio several times a week, as well as moisturizing her skin with her favorite Clinique gel cream. A busy soon-to-be graduate student like herself values self-care and the ability to put life on pause when stressful moments pop up. Ohio University senior, Cameron Quinn, approaches self-care every day through eating habits and exercise. Between searching for future jobs, taking a full course load, and working a part-time job, Quinn still makes time for a daily workout. She uses the Nike ID smartphone app to create workout regimens that work best for her, paired with a healthy, balanced diet that she regularly logs in her food diary. Quinn feels she’s just about mastered the idea of self-care. She continues to look for other habits to adopt that will construct a healthier and stress-free lifestyle; she recently added the daily use of coconut oil to her routine for soft skin and hair. 220 | THREAD
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Self-care doesn’t necessarily need to be strenuous or expensive. It could be getting a haircut, taking a trip to a favorite restaurant, or simply tending to one’s basic needs, as long as it’s self-initiated. Medical Dictionary refers to self-care as “the actions that people initiate and perform on their own behalf in order to maintain life, health, and wellbeing.” It’s easy for college students to lose themselves, to indulge in junk food, to party too much, or to not get enough sleep. Self-care should be habitual; it isn’t something you can do just once to cross off of a to-do list. It’s meant to be a constant repetition of habits that soothe and improve the mind, body, and soul, in order to feel mentally, emotionally, and physically ready to power through life. After all, who doesn’t love feeling their best?
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GOING GREEN(ERY)
Reflecting the most vibrant aspects of nature, Pantone’s Color of the Year is making its way into designer collections for 2017. BY CARLY MCFADDEN PHOTOS BY PROVIDED
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or years, we have been encouraged to “go green.” The phrase has been coined by environmentalists, pushing for a collective effort by the people to protect the earth. As the first couple of months of 2017 get rolling, the phrase takes on a new meaning. This year, we are encouraged to go Greenery. Each December, Pantone announces the official color of the coming year. The color is carefully selected by experts based on both fashion and societal trends. This year, the color is Greenery — a bright, yellow-green that Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, described as a “life affirming shade.” The shade has seen a rapid increase in popularity in recent months, making appearances on the runway, red carpet, and in day-to-day fashion. Last year, nude shades were all the rage. The KardashianJenner clan was practically 2016’s poster family for how to rock understated and muted colors. This year, we see a shift away from the barely-there hues. The toned-down outfits of last year are in search of a bright reboot, and the ever-tangy Greenery is the trendiest way to do it. It goes unsaid that wearing an outfit comprised of only bright green is a bold move, and most people are initially uncomfortable with switching 224 | THREAD
from their beloved neutrals. Due to this hesitation, Greenery has mostly been seen in accessories so far. For the everyday, going-to-class look, pull out a pair of green sunglasses or a winter scarf in the year’s new shade. For a night out, throw on a pair of bright green heels, statement earrings, or a cute cross-body bag with an allblack outfit to keep your neutrals, and simultaneously transition into the timely brights. Bold dressers should opt for big patterns with Greenery mixed in. This year, big floral prints are on-trend, with an intention to reflect nature’s vibrance. Fashion tends to reflect various aspects of nature, and Greenery specifically reminds us of the promise that spring brings. Pairing a green, ruffled blouse with florals and high-waisted skinnies is a flirty, playful way to rock the color and exude confidence. Gone are the days of wanting to blend in — 2017 is all about stepping out and letting your brightest self shine through. Greenery as the color of the year has much greater implications than just in fashion. As a color associated with life and nature, it symbolizes hope and new beginnings. To those who so desperately want to leave all the controversy and chaos of 2016 behind, Greenery is a symbol for that. It offers a fresh start after a long year. The yellow-green is a bold color, a far
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cry from 2016’s official colors: Rose Quartz — a dusty rose — and pale blue, Serenity. The contrast is so strong that its announcement in December initially led some people to feel uncomfortable. Greenery represents an optimistic outlook for the future. Eiseman said it best when she stated, “Satisfying our growing desire to rejuvenate and revitalize, Greenery symbolizes the reconnection we seek with nature, one another, and a larger purpose.” It reminds us of the need for adventure, reinvention, and exploration in life. Just as neutral outfits are searching for pops of color this year, many Americans are searching for something bright to hold onto. Pantone’s bold choice is an encouragement for us to leave all hurt, desperation, and conflicts in the past and look ahead to the future as one people, finding the pops of color in life and magnifying them. Greenery intends to make positivity a reality in 2017.
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“GREENERY
SYMBOLIZES THE RECONNECTION WE SEEK WITH NATURE, ONE ANOTHER, AND A LARGER PURPOSE.” LEATRICE EISEMAN
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For this nonprofit organization, the beauty is in the giving. BY SAM PARKER PHOTOS BY PROVIDED
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hey say that confidence is key, and Julia Farley is no stranger to that sentiment. After all, it’s what drove her to embark on her latest philanthropic endeavor. Farley, a makeup artist and the owner of The Make-Up Studio in downtown Spokane, Washington, has found joy in teaching her clients about makeup and helping them feel good about themselves, and she wanted to provide the same feeling to women of lesser circumstance. Building on this desire, she founded Project Beauty Share, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that collects lightly used makeup and unused feminine hygiene products for women in need. The organization realizes the struggle that many impoverished and marginalized women face in acquiring basic products that empower them, and it wants to help. Project Beauty Share goes beyond collecting the bare necessities for women in these circumstances and strives to provide the tools to help them better their situations while making them feel beautiful. “A lot of what we do is about health and hygiene, but a lot is about dignity,” Farley said. For the organization, it isn’t about taking care of others as much as it’s about creating confidence for women who might not feel it every day. For Project Beauty Share, confidence and empowerment are its underlying goals. Popular beauty vlogger ThaTaylaa joined in the support of the foundation as well by posting 230 | THREAD
a Youtube video about Project Beauty Share as part of her routine video series called #15DaysofFoundation. “It seems kind of excessive and not like a need to certain people, but when you’re trying to get back on your feet and get a job and go out into the world, being able to take a shower and put on makeup and do your hair and do all those things that we do on an everyday basis can be really important,” she said in her video. She also shared why she thinks Project Beauty Share is the ideal method for donating, explaining that most shelters don’t have the sanitation resources to accept used products, but that Project Beauty Share has a group of volunteers dedicated to just that. On Twitter (@ProjBeautyShare), Project Beauty Share posted a thankful message stating that 30 bags of freshly sanitized makeup had been collected since the video was posted in November 2016. The organization accepts all kinds of donations, from makeup brushes to sunscreen to even cash for buying basic hygiene essentials. Money can be donated by check or by PayPal, and gently used items can be dropped off at donation sites or sent in the mail. To further eliminate any confusion about what products to donate, Project Beauty Share established 12 Months of Giving, a program that elects a type of product to donate each month, such as shampoo and conditioner in Feb-
“A LOT OF WHAT WE DO IS ABOUT HEALTH AND HYGIENE, BUT A LOT IS ABOUT DIGNITY,” JULIA FARLEY
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“THE BEAUTY IS IN THE GIVING.” PROJECT BEAUTY SHARE MOTTO
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ruary and nail products in March. For women in women’s shelters and transitional living centers, everyday products like combs, deodorant, and lotion often do not fit into their survival budget or aren’t accessible at all. Recognizing the need of those people was the first step for Project Beauty Share, but now the organization asks for help to fulfill it. Donations can be made to various ministries and shelters across Washington, but the giving doesn’t stop there. Project Beauty Share invites businesses, corporations, and other fellow philanthropists to become partners to the organization. By designating a collection day at their workplace, collecting at social events, or assisting Project Beauty Share volunteers with distribution, they can take the extra step in tackling the widespread need for
sufficient hygiene tools, and can supply a fresh dose of self-confidence to women of Washington. “The impact of Project Beauty Share for the women that we’re serving is the impact of feeling good about yourself again and knowing that you’re able to present your best self when you walk out the door,” said Mary Tracey, developmental director of transitions for Project Beauty Share. Along with collecting and forming partnerships, Project Beauty Share is also affiliated with eBay Giving Works. Through this affiliation, Project Beauty Share sells collected items that don’t fit their standards and, as an approved eBay Giving Works participant that does not incur any of the usual selling fees, it uses the profit to buy products that can be donated. eBay sellers can also particiOUTHREADMAG.COM | 233
pate in community selling, which commits them to donating a portion of their sales to Project Beauty Share. Both of these methods are tax free for Project Beauty Share and benefit the organization at no cost. Project Beauty Share is de234 | THREAD
constructing the notion that personal empowerment is a luxury. Farley has gone beyond the physical necessities of womanhood and has chipped into the emotional necessities that should be accessible to all. Through donations, partner-
ships, word-of-mouth, and community selling, Project Beauty Share has given us the opportunity to do just that. “I’ve always felt that makeup is medicine,” said Farley. “It gives [women] dignity. It makes them feel special. So, if that
little bit helps to give them hope that they can rise above the situation that they’re in and feel beautiful, then I think we’ve done or job.” With their motto, “The beauty is in the giving,” Project Beauty Share is making the world a beautiful place. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 235
RANT/RAVE RANT
TRACK SUITS
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Listen, I get that the 2000s are having a moment. Chokers are trendy, and skinny jeans are getting bumped from the spotlight. But not everything from the era has to be brought back to life — like Juicy Couture tracksuits. Every 2000s trend that has been resurrected from middle school outfit inspo boards now has a fresh take. Chokers today are a far cry from the plastic and stretchy tattoo choker collection everyone had in elementary school. Skinny jeans are slowly dying, but they aren’t being replaced with low-rise bootcut jeans. Rather, today’s style bloggers are constantly wearing flared cropped jeans and straight-leg jeans inspired by the 2000s. But Juicy Couture tracksuits — those look exactly the same as they did when Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie wore them on The Simple Life. Tracksuits are boring, they’re style cop-outs. Athleisure doesn’t have to be boring, and it typically isn’t. But wearing a tracksuit is not exciting. There is no styling or creativity used when someone wears one. It’s just a glorified sweat suit. That is especially the case with Juicy Couture suits, because not only are they dull, but they’re also dated. I know the recent Vetements collaboration was supposed to make sweatsuits trendy again, but before the Vetements collab, Juicy Couture was being sold at Kohl’s. Nothing against Kohl’s, but it’s far out of its league when it comes to a designer brand like Vetements. Yes, the social media queen Kylie Jenner is leading the Vetements x Juicy Couture tracksuit renaissance, but the general public shouldn’t blindly jump on board. As a reminder, this is the same person who is trying to bring back Von Dutch trucker hats.
BY SAMANTHA GUT
BY SARAH WEINGARTEN
RAVE
BY KENYETTA WHITFIELD
They say a great suit can transform a person and for the most part, “they” are right. But who says the perfect suit must have buttons and be paired with loafers? The perfect suit may in fact be a bright, powder pink velour tracksuit complete with glittery bedazzlement on the back pockets. At least that was the case for me. I remember it like it was yesterday. An 8-year-old me had just obtained a beautiful baby pink Juicy Couture tracksuit, and it was on that day that I felt fully confident in my girlhood. The way the material clung to me like an affectionate friend was enough to hook me for life. Tracksuits were the ultimate staple of the early and mid-2000s. From Paris Hilton to your older sister dropping you off at elementary school, the head-to-toe matching threads embodied coolness. Forget athleisure — tracksuits are and always will be the original sporty, comfortable, and practical ensemble. Now, of course there are those who would write off the sweatpants and hoodie combination as lazy, childish, and perhaps even outdated. But what those people fail to recognize is the undeniable star power a tracksuit gives you. Unlike plenty of style trends of the past (gaucho pants, anyone?), tracksuits have been donned by style royalty including Eva Longoria, Halle Berry, and even Kim Kardashian-West. With a track record like that, it would be a travesty to write off those beauties as anything other than superior fashion. We’ve all faced the dreaded day when style must be substituted for comfort, and when that day comes we swallow our pride and take the plunge. Thankfully, the tracksuit puts an end to that dreadful day. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 237