FALL 2014
globetrotter style
BROW EFFECT
feel good weather diy jewelry organizer
COMPOSED WITHOUT THE COLD
Federally insured by NCUA
Reason #4
You’ve mastered the selfie, now use your phone to deposit checks Use MSUFCU’s eDeposit to deposit all of your checks. Simply take a photo of your check with your smartphone and apply it to your account. It’s that easy!
Download the MSUFCU Mobile app today. Not an MSU student or employee? There are many ways you can join. www.msufcu.org • 517-333-2424
Campus Branch Locations MSU Union, 49 Abbot Rd., Rm. #108 523 E. Grand River Ave. 4825 E. Mt. Hope Rd. 3777 West Rd. There is no charge to download the MSUFCU Mobile app; however, data and connectivity fees from your mobile service provider may apply. Please contact your mobile service provider for more information. Some features may be available for MSUFCU members only. App user must have access to MSUFCU’s ComputerLine to utilize login function.
SPECIAL THANKS TO
• Spartan Printing, Inc • ASMSU
• Black Cat Bistro • Retail Therapy
• Threads East Lansing • Voila Boutique • Clever Clover • Mad Eagle
• Caruso Caruso • Moosejaw
• Zack Kadykowski, 3D Printing
• And everyone who participated in our fundraisers!
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Meg Cecil PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR
Lindsay Henderson ASSISTANT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Caroline Bojanic FINANCE DIRECTOR
VIM MAGAZINE
Marisa Sourges Amanda Kadykowski EDITORS-IN-CHIEF
Kelsey Parkinson ART DIRECTOR
Symone Trypodis Emily Murray COPY EDITORS
Haley Kluge ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR
Margaux Forster Ashley Baird PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sarah Waldrop MANAGING EDITOR
Ashley Baird Jade Wiselogle CREATIVE TEAM
Lauren MacLean CREATIVE DIRECTOR Brytanie Killebrew WOMEN’S FASHION DIRECTOR Tanya Sheikh ASSISTANT WOMEN’S FASHION DIRECTOR Jonathan Beers MEN’S FASHION DIRECTOR Macy Uekert INTERIOR DESIGN DIRECTOR Hannah Watts EDITORIAL BEAUTY DIRECTOR Jade Wiselogle ASSISTANT EDITORIAL BEAUTY DIRECTOR Micah Davis CREATIVE BEAUTY DIRECTOR Chloe Westley EVENTS DIRECTOR & VISUAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Jacqueline Cox MARKETING DIRECTOR Sam Parzuchowski ASSISTANT MARKETING DIRECTOR Victoria Tomkinson SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Taylor Ebbing ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Christa Aakary ASSISTANT ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Sydney Stewart Kelly Langton Marissa Downing Lydia Bayley ART TEAM Simone Carter Hally Darnell Julia Le Paris Harper WOMEN’S FASHION TEAM Tyler Austin Rainie Jiang Amber M. Lewis Jecqucory Davis MEN’S FASHION TEAM
Elana Price Anna Waak Kaitlin Feeney MARKETING TEAM Mel Demb Jackie McLane Hally Darnell Sheryl Levitt Shireen Mohyi SOCIAL MEDIA TEAM Esther Okunrounmu Elizabeth Rose Martin Molly Moorfoot Jude Alsawah Margaux Forster Cara Jaeger Jen LaPrise Ali Kazanowski ADVERTISING TEAM Emilie Bischoff Sam Parzuchowski Jamie Brewer Holly Ryan Molly Stelma Karine Pagus Michaela Roberts Jude Alsawah Anna Waack Jordan Glover Jackie McLane Ali Kazanowski Jenna Oosterlinck Taylor Hughes Elena Price Kaylie Kowatch Maya Sanches PUBLIC RELATIONS TEAM
Ashlyn Braun Chloe Aalsburg Mia Galluci Lauren Oldenburg Ali Kazanowski INTERIOR DESIGN TEAM Allison Siarto ADVISOR Caitlyn Taylor Kerry Chereskin Michelle Ghafari Lauren Christopherson EDITORIAL BEAUTY Julie Christopherson TEAM FOUNDERS Emily Vrabel Katie Kirkpatrick VIMmagazine@gmail.com Michaela Roberts EMAIL Molli Franz VIMmagazineblog.wordpress.com Olivia Duong BLOG Tanya Sheikh EVENTS TEAM VIM Magazine FACEBOOK Michelle Ghafari Jenna Oosterlinck @VIMmagazine_msu CREATIVE BEAUTY TWITTER TEAM @VIMmagazine Kelsey Banas INSTAGRAM Allison Yoon VISUAL MEDIA TEAM
IN THIS ISSUE WOMEN’S FASHION
7 Globetrotters 12 Feel Good Weather 13 Totally Tailgate 14 Spartan Stitches 16 Breaking Bad 19 Fashion Timeline 20 Night Moves 46 Denim Supply
MEN’S FASHION
Composed Without the Cold 28 Holiday Style Guide 30 Spartans Men Speak Style 31
BEAUTY & HEALTH
32 Short Hair, Don’t Care 36 Tips for Lips 37 Go for the Gold 38 Top 5 International Beauty Products 39 The Brow Effect 40 Beginners’ Weight Training for Women 41 Shape Matters
INTERIOR DESIGN
DIY Jewelry Organizer 42 Staging a Coffee Table 44 Look for Less 45
FEATURES
34 VIMspiration 55 Mr. VIM 56 Local Business Spotlight 57 Look Good, Do Good 58 Spartan Success 60 Standout Spartan
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MARISA SOURGES Senior, Creative Advertising
fun facts Although they were strangers before college, Marisa & Amanda both hail from the same area in Metro Detroit. Both EIC’s credit VIM as a major reason why they’ve scored internships. Marisa describes her style as preppy, urban and sophisticated, while Amanda describes herself as a minimalist meets comfort kind of gal. Upon graduation, Marisa has her sights set on the Big Apple. Amanda, on the other hand, sees herself working in the D.
meet the
EDITORS-IN-CHIEF AMANDA KADYKOWSKI Junior, Marketing It’s amazing how far VIM has come in its short 5-year existence. What first began from a creative student initiative has transformed into a publication that has earned a coveted spot on the coffee table beside Vogue and Nylon. The key to our continued growth is our inspiring (and fashionable) team of dedicated students. Without them, VIM wouldn’t be Michigan State University’s premier fashion, beauty and lifestyle magazine. As the new Editors-in-Chief, we were determined to elevate the magazine to new heights. In this issue, you’ll find more student photography and curated content than ever before. The articles are
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all tailored towards students, with many of them featuring notable Spartans. The aesthetic of the magazine has had a facelift as well - thanks to our dedicated art team, it is more polished and professional, yet still reflects the unique and diverse style of MSU’s large student population. After a whirlwind season of countless brain storming meetings and design/editing sessions, we’re extremely proud to share our Fall 2014 issue with you. Cheers to many fashionable memories to come.
GLOBE
TROTTERS Focusing on comfort and culture, the style spotlight is shining on students whose homes are far from the American borders. Introducing the international students: these globetrotters’ sartorial contributions to MSU have been the greatest additions to campus since Food Truck combos and cookies from Brody. Words by Brytanie Killebrew. Style by Riley Landgraf. Photos by Nate Revard and Ashley Baird.
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I LOVE TO WATCH THE PEOPLE AROUND ME AND HOW THEY DRESS. -YIREN WANG
AMAL MATOVU
Kampala, Uganda Freshman, Economics and Environmental Studies and Sustainability Like most college students, Matovu, left, is all about comfort. The Uganda native feels most like herself in bright shades that remind her of home. Matovu credits her vibrant African culture and their modest direction as her biggest fashion inspirations. For her, incorporating international style into the American culture is easy when you have the right accessories. To get Matovu’s look just follow these three simple rules: be comfortable, be colorful and be confident.
YIREN WANG
Changsha, China Sophomore, Hospitality Business Take note, ladies, this is how you do sportswear. In muted tones and neutrals, Wang, right, calls her style the perfect mix of high-low. Simplistic and polished, subtle and classic, Wang says she only wears what makes her happy and comfortable. Don’t be fooled – she is also known to break out a killer skirt and great heels if the day calls for it.
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SYIREEN HAZIQAH MOHAMED SAARI
Selangor, Malaysia Sophomore, Applied Engineering Sciences Since moving to the United States, Saari has turned to technology in order to maintain her style. To sustain her impressive collection of headscarves, she scours Instagram to find the perfect hijab from back home. While bold colors are prominent throughout Malaysian culture, Saari would rather stick to earth tones such as olive and white, then splash in brighter colors when needed.
RAQUEL MISHAAN
Guatemala City, Guatemala Freshman, Advertising There’s no denying it, Guatemalans know how to dress. Just ask Mishaan, who defines her personal style as both elegant and comfortable. Taking pride in her love of style and culture was a lesson she learned early on. With bright colors and layers, Mishaan always carries her handmade accessories from Guatemala as a reminder of home.
feel good weather
PRABAL GURUNG FALL 2014
The chilly nights and prematurely setting sun symbolize the end of summer drawing near. It’s time to bid adieu to the welcomed rays upon our backs and the daily poolside soirées. However, there is no need to fret; once the leaves undergo their metamorphosis, so do our wardrobes. Many people see fall as the ideal opportunity to embody the overused concept of “sweater weather.” But sweaters and infinity scarves are not the only option this season, as one cozy knit proved to be not enough for powerhouse designers such as Celine, Stella McCartney and The Row. When reaching for your chunky turtleneck, take a chance and throw it over a form fitting, knit-ribbed midi dress paired with a pointed heel. This look would be perfect
for a night out with the girls, a romantic date or possibly a job interview. For a more “I woke up like this” approach (the look us college women frequently lean towards), pair the turtleneck with knit leggings and leather oxfords. One designer always comes to mind while envisioning the epitome of feminism and class: Elie Saab. Saab decided to go a bit gothic this collection through the use of rich lux velvet in deep ombre hues. He presented these aesthetics on high-slit wrap gowns, ideal for the fall and holiday season. If you’re longing to stray from the typical college “ugly sweater” parties this holiday season, dress up and gravitate toward a simple velvet sheath dress. Or mix textures by pairing a mohair sweater with a velvet skater skirt; after all, ‘tis the season. TANYA SHEIKH
| Handmade Velvet Kimono, $199, Zara
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2 | Dress with Back Knot, $79.90, Zara
3 | Sweater with Back
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Teardrop Opening, $79.90, Zara
4 | Jeffrey Campbell Ray Shearling Slip-on-Sneaker, $75, Urban Outfitters
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totally tailgate
WORDS: Julia Le STYLE: Mimi Pinciotti PHOTOS: Margaux Forster
materials:
white sneakers pencil green paint paint brushes green sharpie pen hot glue gun rhinestones
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Wind, rain, snow or shine, fall is a beautiful season for sports. Even when the weather doesn’t agree, you can still create beauty by bringing personality to your game day attire. Sports are an integral part of the MSU community and tailgating is a welcomed opportunity to show off your school spirit and creativity. As Spartans, there’s no question that we know how to embrace the green and white, but breaking the monotonous game day uniform can be difficult. That’s why VIM has done the hard work for you; we’ve found a fun, easy and creative way to help you stand out from the crowd. So get ready to expose your imaginative side because we’re getting crafty with one of our favorite wardrobe pieces. Shoes are a subtle, yet surefire way to set yourself apart from the masses of repetitive MSU apparel, while still focusing on your Spartan pride. With the help of a hot glue gun and a few embellishments, you can make DIY footwear that will add a unique element to your outfit. Personalize your shoes for tailgate season to add the perfect finishing touch for any game-day ensemble. We’ve demonstrated a few tips and tricks to get those creative juices flowing – don’t be afraid to push the boundaries!
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spartan stitches
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WORDS: Simone Carter STYLE: Alixzandra Jyawook and Olivia Vinckier
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Paris Johnson, right, with model in her designs
For many, fashion is a way to express your inner self with your closet as your arsenal. However, for designers, fashion is not simply styling what you have, it is a lifestyle and a skill. Student designers, Emma Witte and Paris Johnson, hone their skills to construct original works. What starts out as an idea is then transformed into an expression of personal style. Their designs speak volumes and if their clothes were proudly hanging in your closet, you would want to show off more than just your OOTDs on Instagram. These designers fell in love with fashion before most girls learned to walk, or at least attempted to in high-heels. Witte, an apparel and textile design senior, first became interested in design at the age of 12. Stemming from her routine sewing classes, she discovered her love of fashion. Similarly, Johnson, an ATD junior, discovered her creativity at a young age. When choosing a major for college, she automatically knew ATD was for her. With high hopes and bright futures, these Spartans are beyond ambitious and talented. Their portfolios include an array of pieces that stay true to their personal aesthetic. This year Witte was selected as one of seven Michigan student designers to create a ballroom dance costume for breast cancer survivors in the 2014 Dancing with Survivors event. This remarkable event was created by The Pink Fund, a program that provides up to 90 days of non-medical financial aid to cover basic costs of living for Breast Cancer patients. Her work for Dancing with Survivors serves as a reflection of her future career goals. “My dream is to have my own line and be able to create garments that empowering women want to wear,” Witte said. When designing a piece, Emma has a unique approach. Using her own method of “complementary opposite materials,” which she describes as “fabrics or materials that are not usually used together (like knitted yarn and
Right: Amber Witte, right, with model in her designs. Below: model in Witte’s designs.
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leather or mix and matching prints) in a way that complements each other.” When designing, she believes every piece has the power to possess any emotion. To Witte, clothes speak louder than words. When we’re younger we all dream to be something exciting or influential. In Johnson’s case, she turned her childhood hobby into a daring career. “When I was little I used to always sit around and design outfits and cut them out or put them in a book that I actually ended up keeping,” Johnson said. “That’s how I knew I would end up picking apparel and textile design. It was sort of set in stone years in advance.” Johnson’s designs are no stranger to the catwalk. Her work has been featured in annual the ATD Fashion Show, as well as the Alpha Phi Alpha Hair and Fashion Show for the past three years. Her collection displays versatility, with pieces that range from ready-to-wear to avantgarde. For inspiration, Johnson looks at the world to find new angles at art and fashion that haven’t been seen. Her designs illuminate the complexities of nature, the simplicities of life and the longing for travel and adventure. She wants her work to be a symbol of the popular culture today. It was the girls’ first time teaming up with VIM, so when we worked with Witte and Johnson for their shoot they were nervous and humbled. Once the shoot began, their nerves switched to joy as they saw their designs come to life on our stunning models. After all, if they’re going to be the face of the next big fashion line, they’ll need to adjust to the spotlight.
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breaking bad It seems like most of our energy is put into fitting in rather than expressing our true style and having fun – but not anymore. This season it’s all about making your own rules.
WORDS: Paris Harper STYLE: Emily Nagle PHOTOS: Nate Revard and Emily Nagle
mix it up
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The days of pairing prints with solids are over. It’s time to go wild and pair polka dots with stripes and couple leopard print with floral. If you fear mixing prints will make your outfit look too busy, start smaller with accessories. Mix and match your shoes with your bag, or throw in a patterned scarf to add some quirk to your look.
block party
Who says bold colors are just for the spring and summer? Brighten up the autumn season with fun, unapologetic color blocking. When it comes to pulling off this trend, complementary colors pop the most. Yellows pair well with blues, and purples radiate against reds and greens.
boy-meets-girl
Make way gentlemen – the ladies are taking over. The men’s section is no longer just a spot for stylish boys. A casual button down cardigan or a loose fitting tee serves as an easy fix to size restrictions in the women’s section. For an edgier look, try pairing a men’s flannel with a pair of women’s distressed jeans and combat boots. Add a feminine touch to your menswear pieces by mixing a men’s graphic tee with a flirty skirt and tights.
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THIS YEAR
IN FASHION WORDS BY BRYTANIE KILLEBREW
June
02 March
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SHINE BRIGHT LIKE A DIAMOND
This year, the world got the see another side of Rihanna EN — well, actually, VOGUE every side of It was one Rihanna. While of the most receiving the controversial CFDA Fashion decisions in Icon award, fashion history. the singer wore Vogue’s a completely announcement of sheer gown April cover stars, made entirely Kim Kardashian of Swarovski and Kanye West, crystals. Shine left many eager bright, girl. to share their opinions.
Sept.
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ALTUZARRA FOR TARGET
It’s a price point we’ve dreamed of for a brand we love. Joseph Altuzarra’s Target collaboration gifted women with sophisticated pieces perfect for the office or after hours. If we didn’t love Target before, then this collaboration with items starting as low as $9.00 has definitely won over our hearts.
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THE DEATH OF AN ICON
ALEXANDER WANG FOR H&M
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The impact of his death was felt around the globe. Musicians, actors and members of the fashion community mourned the death of celebrated designer, Oscar de la Renta. After a long battle with cancer, he passed away at his home surrounded by loved ones. He was 82.
After crashed sites and sheer pandemonium, H&M shoppers across the globe can finally get their hands on affordable Alexander Wang. Titled Alexander Wang X H&M, the collaboration features the sporty monochromatic pieces you’d only expect from Wang. Items range from $13 to $300.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF VOGUE.COM, HARPERSBAZAAR.COM, BUSINESSOFFASHION.COM, EONLINE.COM, AND FASHIONISTA.COM
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For a night out, embrace this season’s bold hues, fresh silhouettes and quirky prints. Pair with minimal accessories for a sublime effect. STYLE: LAUREN MACLEAN HAIR & MAKEUP: MICAH DAVIS PHOTOS: ASHLEY BAIRD
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Sanctuary houndstooth coat, Retail Therapy; Zig Zag Silver Knit Top, Voila Boutique; black distressed jeans, madewell.com
T by Alexander Wang dress and C Dahlstedt metallic jacket, Tender Birmingham; pearl earrings, Mad Eagle
Left: Weston floral maxi dress, Retail Therapy; pearl earrings, Mad Eagle. Right: All clothes model’s own
Left: Temperley London blue laser cut dress, Tender Birmingham, tahitian pearl necklace, stylist’s own. Right: All clothes model’s own
Betina neon peplum top, T by Alexander Wang hot pink mini skirt, both available at Tender Birmingham, earrings: stylist’s own
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Left: All Clothes Model’s Own Right: Bel Kazan print dress,Retail Therapy; hoop earrings, stylist’s own; Stuart Weitzman knee high boots, www.stuartweitzman.com
compo the c WORDS: Jonathan Beers PHOTOS: Margaux Forster STYLE: Jonathan Beers
Black apple toggle peacoat, asos.com; Bullhead grey chinos, PacSun; printed scarf, Urban Outfitters; Waimea jersey, karmaloop.com
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osed without cold The wind is picking up and the air is now icy. You know what that means: peacoat season. This time of the year is as sacred to the sartorial minded as deer season is to our friendly, gun-toting counterparts. Purchasing a single peacoat and planning to wear it with every pair of jeans and chinos that still fit after Thanksgiving is not only difficult, it’s plain naïve. The essential this season is variety. Stick to your earth tones for fall and neutrals for winter. Large, puffy parkas are being swapped out with chunky cardigans and knit sweaters. Wear a shirt and tie underneath your cardigan sweater, and watch as it complements your outfit like a blazer. Don’t be afraid to leave your buttons undone and shirts un-tucked. Layering has been heavily implemented in lines from Tommy Hilfiger and Brunello Cucinelli. Although the concept of layering is nothing new, designers have begun layering their pieces during shows with scrutinizing detail. Kanye West is a well-known advocate of layering and his coordination speaks for itself. Take a few tips from VIM and stay toasty my friends.
Above: St. John’s Bay peacoat, JC Penney; brown chinos, Banana Republic; scarf, cardigan and graphic tee, stylist’s own Left: M. Nii shearling corduroy jacket, Gap; Hanes white v-neck, Target; cuffed jean, William Rast; Hitman boots, Kenneth Cole
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MEN’S HOLIDAY STYLEGUIDE There comes a time each year where students everywhere are excited to go home for turkey, mac & cheese and other holiday favorites. Don’t get lost in the sauce and just throw on a tee and sweats this holiday, dress in the season’s latest trends. From classic color combinations to quilted jackets you can look stylish in a setting that fits your family’s holiday tradition. WORDS: Amber Lewis STYLE: Amber Lewis & Jonathan Beers PHOTOS: Dornell Mister MODELS: Darius Wilson and Tyler Austin
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Beanie, $20, Levi Bubble Coat, $150, Abercrombie & Fitch Floral Shirt, $30, Nordstrom Jeans, $30, Express 1,000 Mile Rockford Boots, $130, Nordstrom All other clothes stylist’s own
Casual
A cozy cabin dinner calls for a casual and relaxed look. Stay warm and festive indoors with patterned knits. This historically festive trend has made its way back into the hearts of many designers. Luckily for us, patterned knits can be purchased at J. Crew, Macy’s and H&M. Pair your favorite patterned knit sweater with jeans or chinos this holiday season to be comfy, yet cool. Down filled quilted jackets are quite the style and will be sure to keep you warm during those chilly outdoor holiday events. Pair them with slim fitting jeans to counter the size of the puffy coat. Put on your boots and you will be all set for a fun holiday outdoors.
Dressy Casual
Black and white is a classic color combination that has proven to be timeless, as it has made many appearances on the Fall/Winter 2014 runways. Designers like Alexander Wang, Agi & Sam, and Alexander McQueen have featured black and white looks on the runway this season. Keep this holiday simple and pair black pant and jacket coordinates with a white button down, or mix it up. If you are attending a dinner party or another dressy casual event you can’t go wrong with this simple and chic color. Whether you are dressing up or down ‘tis the season to be stylish, happy dressing.
spartan men speak style Merino wool sweater, $29.95, H&M
Faux leather ankle boots, $39.80, Forever 21
Wide rugby beanie, $19.95, Gap
Fringed plaid scarf, $8.80, Forever 21
Authentic wool peacoat, $259, LL Bean
Many do not envy the hectic schedule of a college student, but it seems that for many Spartans, fashion is one item on the to-do list that is rarely ever put on the backburner. This issue, we took to the streets to ask a few students about how they manage their individual style here on campus and where they might be getting some of their ideas from. The results were different than what we expected. The pool of ideas that the students on this campus draw inspiration from was larger than anticipated. While some students stated that household magazines like GQ or Vogue helped bring out a lot of ideas for their aesthetics others referenced top designers like Jean Paul Gaultier or Giorgio Armani. Some however didn’t look to any form of printed magazine or top designer to help them, they instead felt that with such a large abundance of fashion icons walking among us on campus they simply gain ideas from fellow students. But what trends can we expect to see this winter season on campus? Well, it’s looking like scarfs and pea coats are in high demand along with some form fitting sweaters and parkas. But simplicity is key and a lot of guys take that very seriously here. It seems that not many guys plan on being too flashy on the way to classes this winter semester but instead are going with softer tones and just a few flashes of some simple patterns in the form of scarves and other accessories. TYLER AUSTIN
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short hair, don’t care Find the ideal hair cut and style that fits your face shape
The long bob hairstyle has swept the nation. Celebrities and fashion icons such as Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Kylie Jenner and Emma Roberts, are all debuting new, shorter hairdos. No matter your face shape, you can make short hair a part of your signature look.
oval
Those with oval faces have broader foreheads with cheekbones and a jawline that becomes more narrow and tapered towards the chin. Hilary Duff’s most recent haircut really suits her gorgeous oval features with just a few face-framing layers and a straight-edged cut. Add some texturizing spray, like the Dryspun Finish spray from Bumble & Bumble, for natural waves and added volume.
diamond
Much like the precious stone itself, a diamond face shape is very angular with a strong jawline, wide cheekbones and a narrow forehead. People with this shape have to be choosy when it comes to hairstyles to avoid an overly harsh look. Soften things up like supermodel, Karlie Kloss, who has mastered the short, choppy bob. For an effortlessly messy look, wear this short cut
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with a side bang and some loose, messy waves by letting hair set in braids overnight.
heart
Smaller chins, rounder and more prominent foreheads with strong cheekbones, are all characteristics of sweet, heart-shaped faces. Who could forget Miley’s (pre-Bangerz album) ombréd style? Her long bob consisted of a side part and a handful of layers making it extremely versatile. Try using a
get it
recreate celeb-inspired looks with these products
Shimmer Shine Spray helps create a sleek and sexy style $14, Moroccan Oil Dryspun Finish adds texture for natural waves and volume $16, Bumble & Bumble straightener and some Shimmer Shine Spray from Moroccan Oil for a sleek and sexy style, or set some hot rollers in your hair for a more glamorous look.
round
Round faces often have cheekbones that extend wider than the jaw and forehead. To best accentuate these soft features, try a shoulder-length bob like Selena Gomez. This cut looks most polished with a few big curls or loose waves, achieved by
gently finger-combing curls from a 1.5 inch curling wand.
square
Square face shapes have strong cheekbones with an equally broad forehead and jawline. To complement an angular jaw, try a sharp bob that frames the jawbone, like Keira Knightley. Consider wearing this cut straight, using a straightener to lightly curl the ends so they sweep the jawline, flattering the strong features. JADE WISELOGLE
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VIMSPIRAT in·spire verb 1. fill (someone) with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.
“Christmastime is my favorite time of year. I’m inspired by everything red, Santa and full of cheer.” Sarah Waldrop, Managing Editor
Framed by Eduardo Photography
“Lately I have been inspired by the colors and the energy found at the farmers market. All of the in-season flowers and fruits have inspired my style and refreshes me for the upcoming week.” Chloe Westley, Events & Visual Media Director
TION
“I couldn’t help but snap this photo after leaving class at the BCC. The contrast between my white shoes and the colorful fall leaves appealed to me.” Amanda Kadykowski, Co-Editor-In-Chief
“As a self proclaimed glitter girl, I can’t help but adore bright blue crystals that beckon to be worn on icy Michigan days.” Marisa Sourges, Co-Editor-In-Chief
Framed by Eduardo Photography
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tips for lips:
ombré edition inspiration
From hair to nails, the ombré trend has become an instant beauty classic. Follow these steps for the ultimate experiment with color gradation – on your lips! The last step for both these looks is to wear them with confidence. MICHELLE GHAFARI
natural/neutral You don’t have to be famous to pull off Kylie Jenner’s dimensional, over-drawn lips. Ombré can be subtle, too by choosing shades close to your natural lip color.
Cher Lloyd
pair it with:
1. Fill in lips with a nude lipstick or lip liner. 2. Apply a lighter shade to the center of the lips and blend inward. 3. Add a sheer gloss below the cupids bow to act as a highlight. Lightly lined eyes, a touch of mascara and a soft pink cheek. Keep it simple to keep the attention on your perfect pout.
dramatic
1.Trace your lips with a liner that is slightly darker than your choice of lipstick color. For best results, limit yourself to only two or three shades darker. 2. Fill in your lips with the lipstick, making a to avoid completely overlapping the liner you just applied. 3. Using a lip brush, blend lip liner into lipstick to achieve a gradual transition of the two shades.
Jason Wu, Spring 2014
pair it with: Barcelona A/W Fashion Week 2014
Winged liner, a smoky lid, voluminous lashes and a contoured cheek. Crank up the drama for a chic evening look.
Photos: Pinterest
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go for the
gold Metallics are taking over the runways this fall, but gold remains the most precious metal. Here are simple ways to embrace metallics and go for the gold. HANNAH WATTS
EYESHADOW
Gold shadow complements every eye color and skin tone, so don’t be afraid to glam things up and go for a foiled look. Stila Magnificent Metals Foil Finish Eye Shadow in Comex Gold. $32, Sephora
ACCENT NAIL
If all gold everything is not your style, try a gold accent nail on each hand. It’ll be just enough to get your mani noticed, but not too flashy. Zoya nail polish in Goldie, $9, Ulta
FLASH TATTOOS
Throw it back to middle school days and fool your friends with these temporary, metallic jewelry tattoos. With a lasting power of two to three days, they’re definitely worth the splurge. Sofia tattoo set, $22, flashtat.com
FOOTWEAR
Follow the yellow brick road with gold-trimmed footwear. These boots from Lavish Alice are perfect for transitioning from fall to winter. $56, LavishAlice.com
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Top 5 International
Beauty Products
Feeling bored with local beauty retailers? Check out VIM’s roundup of affordable and international beauty products that are sure to leave you with wanderlust. Invisible Zinc Sunscreen A girl can never have too much sunscreen. Popular in Australia, Invisible Zinc is just a simple drug store purchase, but unlike other drugstore brands, it contains zinc oxide, an all-natural alternative to chemical sun blocking agents. Shahnaz Husain Shaeyes Kajal Kohl Black Eyeliner Shahnaz Husain Shaeyes Kajal Kohl liner is made completely of organic materials, including almond oil and flower extracts. The brand uses ingredients from ancient Indian, herb-based medicinal treatments for improving and maintaining vision. The thick black liner is great for achieving the smoky-eye look. Skin 79 Super Plus BB Cream BB creams – beauty balms, beauty benefits or blemish balms – exploded in popularity throughout Asia in early 2013. The creams have now taken over drugstore shelves in the U.S. - and for good reason. BB creams are a time and money saver, combining moisturizers, toners, primers, concealers, foundations and SPFs all in one tube. Tired of the drugstore options? Try Skin 79 Super Plus, a Korean favorite. Kaé L’huile de Beauté Moroccan Argan Oil Like the U.S. Moroccanoil hair care line, Kaé L’huile de Beauté Moroccan Argan Oil utilizes the vitamin-enriched serum derived from the native Moroccan argan tree as a deep conditioning hair treatment. Unlike traditional formulas, Kaé can be used on the face, body and hair to achieve a perfect balance of moisture throughout the year. Chanel Rouge Coco Lipstick Parisian women are known for their seemingly innate ability to pull off a powerful red lip. With France as the beauty capital of the world, choosing the perfect shade of red can be tricky. The Chanel Rouge Coco lipstick is a Parisian classic and a proper tribute to Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel’s beauty legacy. The Rouge Coco line offers pearl, matte and shimmer finishes perfect for lipstick lovers everywhere.
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Adorebeauty.com.au, $26
australia
eBay, $9.99 Amazon, $25.50
asia Xandrarenouvelle.com, $46
africa Chanel.com, $35
europe
BROW ENVY
WORDS: Micah Davis MAKE-UP: Micah Davis, Michelle Ghafari and Jenna Oosterlinck PHOTOS: Kelly Langton & Margaux Forster
By adding a brow pencil, pomade or powder to your brows, you can redefine your look and stay on trend. Bolder brows can easily become a part of your daily make-up routine by simply allowing yourself a few extra minutes in the morning. Enhance your brows correctly with our recommended products and by following the steps below: by plucking any 1 Start underneath each brow
extra hairs
trim the long hairs above 2 Iftheneeded, brows. Outline underneath the brow with a pomade or pencil by following its natural shape
a brow powder or shadow by 3 Apply lightly stroking upward with an angled brush to make the brow appear fuller
underneath the brow with an 4 Clean angled brush and a cream concealer
up to two shades lighter than your natural skin tone to shape the brow
5 Blend the concealer underneath brush upward with 6 Finally, a brow brush to make for
a more natural yet sculpted finish
MAC Eye Brows Pencil, $16 MAC Studio Finish SPF 35 Concealer, $19 MAC 204 Lash Brush, $15 e.l.f. Studio Small Angled Brush, $3 Revlon Expert Tweezer, Square Tip, $6 Sally Beauty Supply Scissors, $5.99
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health guide
beginners’ weight training for women Weight training offers multiple benefits to women, including increased metabolism and weight loss. Even simple moves using weights can help build definition, strength and tone in areas of the body that cannot be achieved through cardio or other exercises. VIM outlines a few weight lifting exercises to get you started. The best part? You can do most, if not all of these moves without a gym. Start with a warm-up. A quick run on the treadmill or jog in place accompanied by 5-10 lunges and/or stretches will have you ready to go. WORDS AND PHOTOS: HANNAH WATTS
triceps extension
Targets: upper arms
Begin by laying on your back, letting feet touch ahead keeping arms straight and palms facing inward towards each other. Slowly lower the dumbbells by bending your elbows until forearms are parallel to the floor. Hold for 1-2 seconds. Keep upper arms stationary during the whole exercise. Repeat a total of 10 times.
shoulder shrug
Targets: shoulders and upper back
Over time, this exercise strengthens your shoulders while helping to improve posture. Start with a 5 or 10 pound weight in each hand. With feet shoulder width apart, “shrug” by moving your shoulders up and down, keeping arms and weights hanging close to your body. Repeat 10-15 times, then rest. Complete routine a total of 2-3 times.
stationary dumbell lunge
Targets: thighs, hips and glutes
Holding a pair of dumbbells at your sides, step forward with your right leg and lower your body until your left knee is parallel to the floor. Hold for 1-2 seconds and return to starting position. Repeat, this time stepping forwards with your left leg. Repeat motions 15 times for each leg.
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shape matters a nail personality guide
Another day, another manicure. The next time you update your mani, go beyond color change and switch up your nail shape. Check out this list to find the nail shape that best matches your personality.
SQUARE
This shape is for the bold and the powerful. You don’t follow the path, you pave your own. Square nails work best for strong, long nails and can be easily personalized with vibrant designs that show off your individuality.
SQUOVAL
If you like to keep to the classics, than you might just be a squoval. Slightly softer than the square, this shape is elegant and practical. The smooth curve decreases breakage and is a perfect shape for thin nails.
ALMOND
Thrift stores and vintage boutiques are where you feel most at home. Flashing back to the 1950s, the almond shape brings out your inner Sandra Dee. The almond has a softer edge than the stiletto and is perfect for medium to long nails.
ROUNDED
Your overflowing planner indicates you always work in a New York minute. Constantly on the go, you need a shape that can keep up with your busy schedule. The rounded shape is low maintenance and won’t leave you with chips and breaks at the end of the day. SARAH WALDROP & HANNAH WATTS
STILETTO
You like your heels high and your nails to make a statement. Commanding attention, the sharp stiletto shape elongates your fingers and gives your nails a dramatic edge.
tools of the trade
CND Glossing Block, $6.90, timetospa.com
CND Koala Buffer, $5.90, timetospa.com
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diy jewelry o
MATERIALS • • • • • • • • •
Wood board Drawer knobs Hooks Picture Frames Metal Screening Lace / Burlap Mini Hinges Wooden rods, 2” & 1/3” diameters
TOOLS • • • • • • • •
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Electric drill Wrench Screwdriver Scissors Measuring tape Pencil Hot glue gun Wood stain or spray paint
STEP ONE – PREP AND PLAN
• Make sure you have all of our supplies and tools. Before you start drilling and gluing, make a plan. You may want to sketch out on paper a ‘map’ for your jewelry organizer even before you go shopping for your supplies. Once everything is purchased, decide where you want to place your frames and rods and choose what order you want your necklace knobs to be. This will help you steer clear of many problems.
STEP TWO – NECKLACES
• Mark equally spaced points (1 for each knob) 2 inches from bottom of board • Drill holes through board at each mark • Insert knobs and screw on washer from back
organizer WORDS & PHOTOS: MACY UEKERT
STEP THREE – EARRINGS
• Take out glass and back stand, leaving an open frame • Cut lace and screen to fit inside of frame • Hot glue lace and screen to back of frame • Screw 2 mini hinges to 1 side of frame (frames will act as swinging doors). Wait to attach to wooden board.
STEP FIVE – ASSEMBLE
• Place frames, hooks and rods on board • Mark with pencil the location where all holes will need to be drilled • On each mark, drill into wooden board • Attach hinges and hooks • Hang your board on wall, place jewelry
STEP FOUR – BRACELETS & RINGS
• Saw and sand wooden rods to desired length • Stain or spray paint, let dry * When purchasing rods, make sure your bracelets and rings can easily slide on and off
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BOOKS
staging a coffee table WORDS: Macy Uekert
Coffee tables often double as a dining table or surface that collects remote controls, rather than a way to display your personal style. When moving into a new place or redecorating an old space, the coffee table is one of the most important purchases. Whether your coffee table is a garage sale gem, an Ikea special, or a high-end piece you splurged on, it’s worth the extra effort to style and decorate.
PETITE BOXES
CANDLE
STORAGE TRAY
VASE
MAGNIFYING GLASS
COASTERS
UNIQUE DECORATIVE ACCENTS
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1.
Decorative Pillows, $15 Target, $25 & $39, West Elm
2.
Terrarium, $39, Urban Outfitters
3.
Radial Mirror, $26, Target
look for less
Recreating a space is not as difficult or expensive as you may think. With a little pinteresting and online shopping you will be well on your way to creating a new space without breaking the bank. Check out this urban-chic look, with accessories from Urban Outfitters, Target and West Elm, great style does not have to be expensive. MIA GALLUCCI
3
1 2
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denim supply Pair your favorite all-American staple with chunky knits, utilitarian boots and shearling vests to achieve perfect laid back cool. STYLIST: Lauren MacLean HAIR & MAKEUP: Micah Davis PHOTOS: Ashley Baird
Adriano Goldschmied boyfriend jeans, Caruso Caruso; Ya Los Angeles sweater, Clever Clover; Dylan fur vest, Voila Boutique; scarf, stylist’s own
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Free People skinny jean, Mad Eagle; Dylan laser-cut top, Voila Boutique; Melody fur vest, Retail Therapy; D&Y scarf, Clever Clover; boots, model’s own
Free People zipper jean, Mad Eagle; Element crème sweater, Ya Los Angeles aztec cardigan, turquoise necklace, all available at Clever Clover.
Left: Laundromat zip-up sweater, Levi’s chambray shirt, Levi’s tan slim trouser, backpack, all available at Moosejaw. Right: Free People zipper jean, Mad Eagle; Element crème sweater, Ya Los Angeles aztec cardigan, turquoise necklace, all available at Clever Clover.
DL1961 bootcut jean, J by Cookie Johnson chambray shirt, Ella Moss shearling vest, all available at Retail Therapy; D&Y floral scarf, Mad Eagle
Levi’s chambray shirt, Levi’s tan slim trouser, Green Backpack, all available at Moosejaw
Left: MIU MIU belted coat, Tender Birmingham; Isabel Marant jeans, Tender Birmingham. Right: MIU MIU vest, Tender Birmingham; Mystree zipper sweater, Voila Boutique; Madewell distressed jeans, madewell.com.
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mr. vim Honest, anonymous advice for a college girl’s toughest situations.
Q
What do I do if my TA expresses interest in me?
PHOTO: TUMBLR.COM
We’re all human and relatively mature here, so you’re more than welcome to handle this situation however you wish. Now that I have legally freed myself of any repercussions you may have while living out your teacher-student fantasy, it’s time to get down to basics. This is not about if you respond (because let’s be honest, you will) but how you respond that really matters. If you present yourself as ready and available, he will think you’re used to this happening. Most men are more interested in women who seem unattainable, not the village bicycle. If you want him to flat out stop making advances on you, then be vocal about it. If he thinks you’re playing hardto-get, leaving him hanging will double his efforts and will create a scenario that might just deprive you of that much-sought-after 4.0. Yes, I know that’s not right, but that’s how the system works when you mix business and lust…I mean love.
Q
How do I break it off with my long-distance boyfriend and start something up with my work crush?
Q
I saw the guy I’ve been talking to (texting, Snapchatting, etc) making out with someone else at the bar. What do I do?
This might be especially hard, as the holidays are just around the corner. You have found yourself between the comfortable environment you’ve known and a new one that you eagerly want to experience. You need to let him down easy; don’t tell him that someone else is in the picture, but inform him that you need someone who is constantly present, not just a relationship connected by technology. It’s imperative that communication be cut. Don’t lead him on or he will look for comfort where it has always been. Be sure to sever all ties with your soon-to-be ex before pursuing your crush. If your crush turns you down, do not keep your ex as a back-up. If he has already been placed on the back burner, it’s time to let go completely – an ex is an ex for a reason.
Every situation is different. Some guys just want to have fun with as many girls as they can. It’s possible that your crush isn’t looking for anything serious. It’s also possible that he does like you, but is afraid to be vulnerable, so kissing another girl is his way of putting up a wall to protect himself. But the problem is actions like these will leave you feeling cheap and disposable, which isn’t fair to you. Depending on how long you two have been talking, he might not see a problem in seeing other women. The mature thing to do is talk to him about it. Don’t be accusatory, and don’t lead with ‘I saw you making out with someone.’ Maybe tell him that you were thinking about kissing someone, but didn’t know how he would feel about it. This conversation can be incredibly uncomfortable, but if you are looking for a man worth your time, then you need to communicate with him. If he doesn’t give you the answer you’re looking for, then it might be time to take a few eggs out of “his” basket.
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local business spotlight
Blow dry bars - essentially blow-dry only salons - first gained traction in New York City in 2013. Now you’re guaranteed to find one in every major city, helping people of all ages and races achieve their “hairspiration”. Heat Blow Dry and Beauty Boutique, now open inside the MAC (Michigan Athletic Club) in East Lansing, Mich., is unique to both Michigan and the Lansing area. But it was inspired by so much more than a big city beauty ritual. A spark Owner and co-founder, Molly Chan, first thought of opening a blow dry bar during an exceptionally difficult time in her life. “My husband was battling cancer and I’d go with him every day while he was going through chemo and radiation,” Chan said. “I started going in twice a week for blowouts to a blow dry bar in Ann Arbor. It was sort of my salvation. It just made me feel better and lifted my spirits.” Chan believes a blowout yields more than compliments from strangers. “Our philosophy at Heat is that it’s a sort of sanctuary,” she says. “You can come in and from the start the experience is yours and it’s all about you.” Bringing the heat Since blow dry bars are somewhat of a new concept in smaller cities like East Lansing, co-owner and stylist Daniel Buccilli says many people don’t know what to expect. “Some people have no idea what it is, some heard of it and
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a few people have gotten a blowouts at regular salons,” he said. “At Heat it’s more of an intimate experience because, as far as hair goes, that’s all we do.” Though the concept behind Heat is quite specialized, every service is customized to each individual client’s hair type, length and style preference. The “Mermaid” blowout yields loose, soft beachy waves while “Straight to the Point” leaves hair sleek and straight. For men, the “Blow-Bro” includes a massaging shampoo, neck trim, steam towel and style. Warming the community Heat’s diverse clientele enjoy a variety of services from blowouts to nails and makeup application. “Our youngest client is 2 years old and our oldest client is 105, so it really is for everyone,” Buccilli said. Upon its grand opening in August, Heat was embraced by the community and continues to serve East Lansing and Lansing area residents. “We kind of fell into the MAC, and it worked out beautifully with the MSU community nearby and the MAC’s membership,” Chan said. “It’s really the team and clients that make it what it is. You can literally reinvent yourself here. Come in, try something new and have fun.”
Heat Blow Dry and Beauty Boutique Address: 2900 Hannah Blvd. East Lansing, Michigan Website: www.heatblowdry.com Phone: (517) 575-6273 WORDS AND PHOTOS: HANNAH WATTS
31bits Photo courtesty of 31bits.com
look good, do good
As college students, we’re always planning for the future. We have the potential to make a difference in the world and the founders of 31 Bits have turned these thoughts into actions. During their junior year of college, Anna Toy, Kallie Dovel, Julie Fetner, Alli Swanson and Julie Sullivan created 31 Bits, a philanthropic jewelry company that works to provide college-aged women in underdeveloped countries with healthcare, counseling and education. 31 Bits is able to cover the cost of a five-year program with profits made from their handcrafted jewels. 31 Bits features colorful pieces that are perfect for transitioning from a summer flower-child to an urban, autumn it-girl. From clutches to statement necklaces, each piece echoes an upbeat style made with an array of beads in organic shapes, all handcrafted from recycled paper and other natural materials. While the pieces’ vibrant colors may give off summer vibes, they can be easily incorporated into any fall wardrobe. We chatted with co-founder Alli Swanson to get the latest on this season’s accessory trends, and how to follow in these young founders’ footsteps. HALLY DARNELL
Q: What are some trends you are seeing in jewelry right now? A: We love the look of lots of arm candy; mixing and matching Bits with metallic jewelry and big statement necklaces. Q: How can we incorporate pieces from 31 Bits into our fall wardrobes? A: We really do wear our Bits with everything! We love rocking our Santa Fe necklace with a little black dress or a striped tee. We also love the look of layering our Armadillo Song necklace with a sweater and a vest. We frequently mix and match our bracelets with gold bangles – our Daphne bracelets are great for that! Q: Do you have any advice for students on getting involved with charitable organizations like 31 Bits? A: Two things. Number one: go for it! We were scared and unqualified, but didn’t let that stop our dream. Number two: ask questions. Learn from those who are already running organizations and have been down that path.
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SPARTAN SUCCESS
Some say that a picture is worth a thousand words, but to Chase O’Black, a thousand pictures are worth one word: progress. The MSU alum and former VIM photographer recently moved across the country to begin a career in professional photography, and he’s busier than ever. Between photographing professional models and meticulously editing photos, O’Black spoke with VIM about his newfound success in Los Angeles and what it takes to work in the creative field of photography. AMANDA KADYKOWSKI
Q: When you were at MSU, what did you see yourself doing after graduation, and how did you get there? A: When I realized that you could make a career out of being creative, I knew L.A. was a bustling metropolis for anyone seeking opportunity. I connected with successful individuals and asked for advice and spent my final two years of college learning the technical aspects of photography. I used VIM and the Red Cedar Log (MSU’s yearbook) as an opportunity to grow my skills and perfect them to a point where I knew I could prosper in L.A. Q: Tell us about some of your jobs and responsibilities in L.A. A: Right now, I work five days a week as a photography assistant for Gray Malin, a fine art & lifestyle photographer. I photograph his product and lifestyle photography amongst full-time creative development. If he wants his image to be a product, I am in charge of making that product look how he wants it to look. I also work as a production and studio lighting assistant for four other photographers. It’s a lot of work for highlist clientele. Q: What are the greatest challenges you face as a photographer? A: In the business world, you find out that the decisions you are making pertain to the rest of your life. It’s really a challenge to make the right choice for yourself and your future. When you make a decision related to photography, you have to live with that decision every single day. It’s an eye-opening factor. Photos by Chase O’Black / chaseoblack.4ormat.com
CHASE O’BLACK
Q: How does a photographer “make it?” A: They keep doing what they’re doing and they don’t let anyone stop them. My biggest asset is motivation to keep creating. If you’re creating, you will find your niche. Photography is just as much a business as it is an art, if you can recognize that, you can be successful. Q: What advice do you have for students who want to become photographers? A: I suggest, first and foremost, creating as much as possible while you can. You can look at style and follow trends, but if you’re not putting work out consistently, you won’t learn from your mistakes. You should strive to continually create and make those mistakes while you’re still molding your style. Q: How would you describe your style of photography? A: Purposeful, calculated and natural. I like to take things as-is, but change the perspective. Q: To what do you credit your success? A: I think it’s the combination of experiences and individuals who have influenced me along the way. Peter Glendinning, a photography professor at MSU, helped me define my thoughts as an artist and my career path. Moments of clarity like that helped shape the success that I’ve experienced so far. Q: What do you miss the most about Michigan and Michigan State? A: I miss the seasons changing! I was recently in E.L. and I was the only one wearing a jacket and pants when it was hot out. As far as MSU, I miss being a kid. It is a stage in your life where you’ve left high school and you are on your own, but you can still be youthful and act however you want. But once you leave MSU, the real world becomes very real. You no longer can spend your Sunday watching Netflix. You’re accountable for things. It’s a fight or flight mentality when you graduate. You have to be progressively pushing yourself.
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standout spartan aaron martinez
with the Michigan House of Representatives for the past two years. He first dealt mainly with constituent tasks, such as serving as the liaison between citizens and state departments. However, true to form, Aaron soon took initiative to expand
“
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reverse the effects of overdose and, in doing so, save lives. Aaron collaborated with a team of lawyers at the Capitol and gained supporters from all over Michigan. It took about a year to put the bill together, but the slow process paid off
“
Many students in their sophomore year are still working to declare a major and find their place among the 40,000 undergraduate students at Michigan State. However, this is not the case for sophomore Aaron Martinez, who has already built up an impressive list of accolades and involvements since his transfer here this fall. Aaron is a student in the James Madison College studying Political Theory and Constitutional Democracy. Though this major may be a bit of a mouthful, it is nothing Aaron can’t handle. He enjoys the challenging coursework and hopes to pick up a minor sometime in his upcoming semesters as well. Aaron’s interest in political theory led him to become heavily involved as an intern
THE WAY WE RESPOND PHYSICALLY TO MUSIC IS UNBELIEVABLE
his role. He went on to author a bill that was recently signed into effect by Governor Snyder. The bill permits the use of Naloxone, a special narcotic drug, in cases of pill overdose or heroin use. This drug can
when Public Act 312 of 2014 was officially signed into law on October 13th. This is a pretty impressive accomplishment for a 21-year-old student. When Aaron isn’t busy at the Capitol, he is spending his
time working as an on-air DJ and member of the news team at Impact 89FM, the studentrun college radio station at Michigan State. He plays a multi-faceted role working with station exposure, online content, news stories and tunes. Naturally, his favorite stories to cover include topics related to government or politics. When Aaron came across a story regarding lack of handicap accessibility in Spartan Stadium, he saw another opportunity to dive in and make a change. After being inspired by the campaign, he reached out and utilized his position with Impact to shed light on the cause. Aaron believes that everybody has a voice worth hearing and takes every chance he can to spread an admirable message. Somewhere between his coursework and internships, Aaron found the time to start a nonprofit organization that provides musical outreach to senior citizens. The group, which calls itself the “Beyond Belief” senior chorus, now has 40 members between the ages of 60-100. This fall they performed a tribute to the sounds and culture of the 1950s to a crowd of roughly 600 people from the
Metro Detroit area. Aaron says it has been amazing to see the impact the group has had on the community and on the individual members. The chorus is not only an opportunity for enjoyment, but research has shown that musical involvement is very beneficial to senior citizens’ mental health. It sharpens the mind and has been known to delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. This was Aaron’s motivation for starting the organization. “The way we respond physically to music is unbelievable,” Aaron said. “They’re unaware of the fact that they’re actually getting so much out of it.” Aaron attributes his passion to the influence of his parents. He says they taught him to have a commitment to helping others and to never take things for granted. In addition, he believes MSU is the best environment for this type of attitude. When asked how he is enjoying his time at Michigan State so far he responded, “I wouldn’t want to be any other place.” We certainly agree, and we can’t wait to see what he does with his next two years here. JACQUELINE COX
AARON’S STYLE INSPIRATION
Although he admits to being “pretty plain” when it comes to his personal fashion, Aaron always gets a kick out of wearing a nice suit. The men in his family have forever worn vests, which Aaron finds has become a staple in his style. However, on campus you might spot Aaron sporting Spartan gear.
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SPECIAL THANKS TO:
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