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FUNKY BELTS
Fastened, latched & strapped
LGBTQ+MIA
Spots to taste the rainbow in Miami
HEROES
Not all heroes wear capes
Villainize your wardrobe
Fastened, latched & strapped
Spots to taste the rainbow in Miami
ROTTEN TO THE CORE
Villainize your wardorbe
Not all heroes wear capes
Fastened, latched & strapped
HEROES
Not all heroes wear capes ROTTEN TO THE CORE Villainize your wardorbe
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The Guide covers it all. Discover the ultimate ways to spend your summer in Miami, from hidden beaches to can’t-miss festivals. Decode the ever-growing list of streaming services so you know what’s worth the binge. And explore the vibrant gay scene that makes Miami pulse with pride, connection, and unforgettable nights out. Whatever you’re looking for, let us guide you. photo&design_valentina gomez.
words_lucy carlson-pietrazec. photo_valentina gomez. design_sal puma. Once school’s out, staying in Miami can feel like the dog days, with the almost unbearable humidity. Once all the college kids go home, staying in Miami can feel like a drag; however, it doesn’t have to be! There is no better time to try trekking outdoors, dancing at clubs and festivals, eating at amazing restaurants or just anything new with all that spare time on your hands. Whoever said New York was “The City” That Never Sleeps hasn’t spent a summer in Miami!
While Miami is known yearround for its constant hubbub of festivals, outdoor activities, and ongoing attractions, this is especially true during the summer.
Although it gets to a near boiling temperature, the fun will not be stopped. Summer is a great chance to refresh when the college crowd gets a bit tiring and overwhelming.
Emilia Morales, a junior at the University of Miami, said she agrees. “It’s a di$erent feeling not having the regular college crowd but there’s still a lot of college aged people around and I think summer can be a lot more relaxing and less stressful,” said Morales.
Don’t know where to start on your %rst summer in Miami? Here’s a list to get you going.
Restaurants & Bars:
As if you didn’t know, Miami is packed with restaurants, cafes and bars — there are so many gems waiting to be discovered.
Even if you tried a new restaurant each day of the summer, you would likely never run out of options.
Catherine Hoynack, a junior %nance major, grew up in Miami and gave her insider scoop on where the best places to grab a bite are.
“Madruga Bakery is obviously the best. e grove has really good restaurants as well, like Sapore Di Mare. If you want Indian Bombay, Darbar is amazing,” said Hoynack.“If you go to Brickell for happy hour, Rosa Sky is really nice.”
e beloved Hard Rock Stadium isn’t just home to the `Canes football team or the Miami Dolphins. Its stacked lineup of starstudded events has earned a reputation for putting on incredible shows.
“ ere’s usually a lot of concerts going on. is upcoming summer I’m going to Morgan Wallen which is exciting. Whatever concerts are going on are always my favorite things,” said Hoynack.
e lineup of music sensations coming this summer should not be missed. Shakira, the four-time Grammy-winning Colombian artist, is set to perform at Hard Rock Stadium June 6 for her “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” world tour.
Post Malone will also venture to Miami to play June 8 for his “Big Ass Stadium Tour” and e Weeknd will play for his “A er Hours Tour” Aug. 15. Visit the Hard Rock Stadium website to see if your favorite artist is stopping by the 305 this summer.
Worried about what another season in Miami will do to your bank account? No worries. Fun activities don’t always cost money, especially in the beautiful outdoors of summer. Some people’s perfect summer day involves just themselves and nature.
“I like to walk and run around Pinecrest and Coco Plum and sometimes Snapper Creek. I enjoy being around nice neighborhoods,” said Hoynack.
If rotting on the beach isn’t stimulating enough for you, there are plenty of activities to do on any beach in Miami, like jet skiing, windsur%ng, parasailing or wakeboarding. If you miss the UM Scuba Club during the summer, feel free to check out the dozens of dive shops around South Miami, like Diver’s Paradise in Key Biscayne.
Just like in the deep sea, there are endless hidden treasures that this amazing city has to o$er, especially under the summer sun.
Miami is known for its festivals of all kinds. It isn’t just Ultra that attracts music lovers. Whether it’s art, music or food, you can bet that Miami will have a festival, market or event dedicated to it.
Some memorable markets that people recommend include, “the farmers market on Sundays in Pinecrest. Wayside marketplace in Pinecrest as well has great smoothies and fresh fruits,” said Hoynack.
Are you a fellow thri er looking for some unique Miami %nds? ere happens to be a year-round pop-up called the Magic City Flea Market that hosts many di$erent
local companies and small businesses. It is essentially a thri ers’ playground.
e beach might sound like an obvious choice for summer in Miami, but it is a classic. Sometimes all you need is a good book, a spikeball game and a little trip to the sand. e ocean water in Miami gets up to 85 degrees so you can play in it all day and still stay cool.
“It gets really hot so sometimes being outside isn’t the best, but going to the beach is always fun,” said Morales.
South Beach and Miami Beach are allthe-rage for tourist-%lled spaces with lots of people watching. If you are looking for a more secluded area, try out Matheson Hammock Park or Key Biscayne.
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always about partying in Miami. O en, rather searching for work in their respective hometowns, college students grab any job or internship they can during the summer.
When asked, Catherine says, “Yes, I do work in Miami at Ernst & Young during the summer. It is a big four accounting %rm.”
On the other hand, Emilia says, “I work as a lifeguard at a country club.”
Hoynack says that she is spending the summer in Miami working at Ernst & Young, a Big Four accounting %rm.
Alternately, Morales says she will spend her summer working as a lifeguard at a local country club.
Later in May comes the Hyundai Air and Sea Show and Music Explosion. is is a free event that is open to the public to celebrate all branches of the military and %rst responders. ere are demonstrations of military air shows, special operations exercises, parachute teams and much more.
Another favorite is Miami Swim Week, which takes place from May 28 throughJune 1. is Miami Beach event has over 100 runway shows featuring the season’s new bathing suits on some world-famous models.
words_skyler schwanewede. photo&design_leah bahamonde.
These days, it seems everyone’s ditched cable TV in favor of streaming services. While this a!ords us the leisure of watching what we want, when we want, the surge in streaming poses a whole new problem. With over 200 streaming service options available in the United States, people have too many options to choose from. Streaming services can add up, so how does one assess which services are worth it?
In 2024, the average American had two streaming subscriptions and watched three hours and 49 minutes of content each day, according to the State of Consumer Media Spending in 2024.
A major issue arises in that it would cost a lot of money to have multiple subscriptions.
e average American spends $42.38 a month on streaming services, according to the consumer media report.
Student discounts are available for streaming services starting at just $1.99 a month, according to Rolling Stone. By registering with an “.edu” email address, students can get subscriptions to Amazon Prime, Max, Peacock and others. In addition to discounts on monthly subscription rates, many streaming services o$er students extended free trials, as much as six months in some cases.
You may be asking yourself, ‘well, which one should I subscribe to if I like a certain type of entertainment?’ Starting with Net#ix, the most popular streaming service, here is a breakdown of what some of the popular services provide.
Net#ix has been at the forefront of streaming and producing original programming that cannot be found on any other sites. eir original content has been wildly successful, with shows like“Squid Game,” “Stranger ings,” “Arcane” and “Big Mouth” accruing much popularity and praise.
Net#ix’s vast library of TV shows and movies distinguishes it as a must-have for college students. eir library’s diverse range of content has something that will catch anyone’s eye or %t any occasion. If someone is looking for a sappy, dramedy show chronicling the pitfalls of adolescence, they likely have four to choose from. Someone looking for a medical drama has half a dozen to choose from. So to speak, Net#ix’s library of both original and acquired content has something for everyone.
eir original content has been wildly successful, with hit shows like“Squid Game,” “Stranger ings,” “Arcane” and “Big Mouth” accruing much popularity and praise.
As many streaming services tend to do, Net#ix’s original content is exclusively available on Net#ix. Certain shows have
generated immense popularity, such as ‘Wednesday’, which has garnered over 252 million views, and Season 4 of Stranger ings, which has 140 million views. Needless to say, Net#ix’s original shows are typically very high quality, spearheaded by established creators like Tim Burton and Shonda Rhimes. Many of the binge-worthy original shows they produce instantly gain attention on social media, drawing even more people to subscribe to the platform for viewing access..
“I use Net#ix for shows like ‘Breaking Bad’ and ‘Better Call Saul,’” said Kai Volsteedt, a student at the University of Miami. “I also use other streaming services, depending on what they o$er, like ESPN+ for Formula One.”
If you’re a sports fanatic, ESPN+ is the service for you. is streaming service provides sports lovers with everything they could ever want. Included on the site are live sports, coverage of the major leagues, original programming and news and analysis.
No matter what kind of sports you enjoy, ESPN+ has got you covered. It provides access to the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL, along with international soccer leagues, golf majors and Grand Slam tennis events.
ESPN+ features its own original programming, includingseries and documentaries revolving around sports, such as the acclaimed “30 for 30” series. Along with that come sports news programs, which include “Sportscenter” and analysis shows such as “Sunday NFL Countdown.”
YouTube itself may not be inherently a streaming service, but it o$ers a package called YouTube TV that functions as one, providing live TV content, on-demand shows and movies and a cloud DVR.
YouTube TV functions as a new form of cable television, allowing you to replace traditional cable services.. Providing access to live TV from over 100 channels including, broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC), cable channels, and regional sports networks. Users can also access on-demand shows and movies, barring exclusives from other streaming services, to their heart’s content.
Unlike cable television, which is limited to one household, YouTube TV is accessible
from anywhere and anytime from multiple devices -- whether it be TV, cellphones or tablets. Family Sharing, with up to six accounts, ensures family members aren’t le out of the fun.
“You can’t %nd YouTube content anywhere else,” said 22-year-old student Samari Sookram, referring to the thousands of other videos and creators that YouTube hosts that are free free with ads. YouTube Premium is a separate paid membership to remove ads from YouTube videos and allow downloads.
Amazon Prime, something everyone’s mother probably has, functions not only as a reliable way to access free fast shipping and delivery but also grants access to its exclusive streaming service, Prime Video. It also provides access to Prime Music, Prime Reading, Prime Gaming and Amazon Photos.
If you want the most bang for your buck, then Amazon Prime would be the way to go since it provides multiple uses besides just streaming.
at doesn’t mean its streaming service is lacking in comparison to the others. Like Net#ix, Prime Video produces its own exclusive television shows, movies and documentaries only found on its platform. With that comes hundreds of other shows, movies and documentaries, not exclusive, chock full with content that a person can %nd and enjoy.
As for exclusives, Prime Video has hit shows such as “ e Boys,” “Invincible,” “ e Lord of the Rings: e Rings of Power” and movies such as “ e Tomorrow War” and “ e Big Sick.”
Prime Video also has begun to dip its toes into the sports world by paying for exclusive access to live sports such as “ ursday Night Football.”
Prime Video is most similar to Net#ix in what it provides and the choice for those picking between the two will be between which exclusives students would prefer to watch.
“I saw that the show “Fallout” was on Amazon Prime and that drew me to it, along with the show “Invincible” that I really enjoyed watching, ” said 21-year-old student Donato Palermo.
If there’s one place synonymous with Miami’s LGBTQ+ scene, it’s Palace Bar. Perched on Ocean Drive, just steps from the beach, Palace has been serving food, drinks, and fierce drag performances for over 30 years. It’s not just a bar — it’s a full-blown experience, one that starts in the afternoon and often stretches well into the night.
The daily drag brunches are the stu! of legend, where queens strut down the sidewalk runway in glitter and heels, entertaining locals and tourists alike.
As night falls, Palace transforms into a party hub with DJs spinning high-energy beats and themed events. It’s a place where locals and visitors dance together, drawn in by the uninhibited joy that only a place like Palace can conjure.
Located in Miami’s colorful Wynwood district, Gramps isn’t a “gay bar” in the traditional sense — but that’s exactly why the LGBTQ+ community loves it. With its open-minded programming, inclusive atmosphere, and regular queercentric events, Gramps has earned its stripes as one of the city’s most welcoming spaces.
Palace’s outdoor seating means you’re always part of the audience — or the show, depending on your vibe — and the energy is nothing short of electric.
The venue is a hub for indie concerts, themed dance nights, and eclectic drag shows —
especially its famed “Double Stubble” nights, a mix of performance art and campy fabulousness. The vibe is more “punk drag cabaret” than glossy club, and it’s all the better for it.
Whether you’re sipping a frozen Moscow Mule on the patio or sweating it out on the dance floor inside, Gramps feels like home. It’s queer, quirky, and a little chaotic — in the best way possible.
R House is where culinary excellence meets queer culture. By day, it’s a stylish restaurant known for its Latin-fusion cuisine and vibrant art collection. But come weekend brunch or Friday night, it becomes one of the most electric drag destinations in the city.
The drag brunch at R House is wildly popular — imagine eggs benedict served with a side of Beyoncé, and you’re halfway there. Queens perform between courses, dancing on tables and weaving through the crowd, who are often just as glam as the performers themselves.
But R House isn’t just about brunch. Its late-night scene is buzzing, with DJs spinning funk, disco, and pop while guests enjoy signature cocktails in an art-drenched setting. It’s classy, creative, and completely unforgettable.
Located on Lincoln Road, Nathan’s Bar o!ers a more relaxed but equally fun experience. This newer spot has quickly earned a reputation as the “everyone knows your name” gay bar of Miami. It’s cozy, community-driven, and the perfect place to kick o! your night — or end it with one last round.
The bar hosts karaoke, trivia nights, and RuPaul’s Drag Race watch parties that draw devoted regulars and friendly newcomers. It’s got all the charm of a classic neighborhood pub, just with rainbow flags and drag queens hosting bingo.
What sets Nathan’s apart is its accessibility and warmth. The drinks are a!ordable, the bartenders are chatty, and the vibe is exactly what you want after a long day or right before a wild night.
If you’re looking for an LGBTQ+ bar with zero pretense and maximum character, look no further than Willy’s. Tucked away just north of Downtown Miami, this neighborhood dive is beloved by locals for its unfiltered atmosphere, cheeky humor, and welcoming attitude that extends to everyone who walks through the door. It’s the kind of place where the drinks are strong, the regulars are quick with a joke, and the night unfolds organically.
Willy’s feels like a throwback in the best way. There’s no velvet rope, no Instagram corner — just a jukebox, a pool table, and a bar sta! who’ll probably know your name by the second round. The décor leans into kitsch and camp, with rainbow lights, vintage gay icons on the walls, and the occasional disco ball catching the light just right as Madonna plays overhead.
What really sets Willy’s apart is its unpretentious programming. On any given night you might find karaoke chaos, pop-up drag, or theme parties which keep it lively ever day.
Azúcar is a pulsating, allnight Latin dance club that caters primarily to the Hispanic LGBTQ+ community — and it’s one of the most authentic dance experiences in Miami. Located just west of Coral Gables, it’s a little o! the beaten tourist path, which makes it feel like a true hidden gem.
Expect reggaetón, salsa, and bachata beats all night long, with drag performances that often lean into telenovela drama and Latin glam. The crowd here is loyal, passionate, and ready to dance — and the energy is contagious.
Azúcar is also known for its amateur drag competitions and themed Latin nights. Whether you speak Spanish or not, the music and vibe transcend language. It’s spicy, it’s sweaty, and it’s spectacular.
Twist is a rite of passage. Tucked away on Washington Avenue in South Beach, this labyrinthine club boasts seven bars, three dance floors, and countless opportunities to lose yourself in the music.
The club caters to a diverse crowd — young to older — and has a room for every mood. Want Latin beats? Head to the back bar. Craving house music? Upstairs you go. Prefer chilling with a cocktail and peoplewatching? There’s a quieter lounge for that, too.
But what keeps people coming back to Twist isn’t just the layout — it’s a staple. Maybe it’s because it’s one of the first options to come up when you type in “Miami gay bars” into Google, but it is one of the most popular. It gets crowded though, so if you plan on going in a group make sure you stick together and brave the tides.
Happening tackles today’s hot topics. Meet the frat DJs spinning their way from campus parties to Miami’s hottest clubs. Get an inside look at Cat 5, the spirit squad bringing the thunder to every game day. And step inside the legendary Versace Mansion for a taste of South Beach glamor. We bring you the latest Miami has to offer.
photo&design_valentina gomez.
words_ben gerkin. design_sal puma
At e University of Miami, students hustle through exams, papers, and projects, but some are also adding rhythm and energy to the campus in a way that’s hard to ignore.
Mark Cerviari, a sophomore studying Marketing and Global Management, is one of those who doesn’t just experience college life; he enhances it.
As a DJ, Cerviari has been electrifying fraternity functions, private parties, and
quickly began to master his cra .
“I actually noticed I was getting good and didn’t feel any pressure from the art itself or people to get good. I’ve played a variety of instruments, seven or eight to be exact, and I never had a drive to keep playing any of them. So when year two came around and I was racing up to my room to get on the decks I knew it was something I had to pursue,” he stated.
With over a year of experience under his
Exchange a er. My goal coming into college was to get a club gig by my junior year and in my %rst week as a spring admit freshman I was o$ered to play at one of the biggest named clubs in Miami and close at a nightclub in South Beach,” he remarked.
It’s only been up from there for Cerviari, releasing and racking up hundreds of thousands of listens on SoundCloud, an online platform where artists can release music without a record label or distributor. Cerviari’s top track “SPEED IT UP (part 2)” has accumulated over 258,000 streams on the
“I remember the reason for making it was because I heard “Hotel Room” sped up on some social media account and then I thought I could take a few popular songs, speed them up 3-4 bpm and take the key lock and it sounded really good,” he told us.
Cerviari expects torelease a part 3 in the
While DJing is undoubtedly Cerviari’s passion, balancing it with his academic responsibilities is a constant challenge.
He stated, “School always comes %rst. e music industry is very hard to thrive in so making sure I have a good foundation built if all hell breaks loose is a must...But, once the weekend hits my full focus turns into
Despite having accomplished so much thus far, Cerviari continues to dream big, and hopes to segway into producing his own
“I’m working on something I’m going to be very proud of once it’s done, which rst ever produced track. I’m aiming for a more latin tech house vibe and am hoping to release it within the next month... and by the time I graduate from college I’m hoping I have produced under my belt with a few tracks played by big artists at sets. It’s very hard to get to that point but with my ambitions and passion for music I really
To those with a passion for mixing, Cerviari provided these words of wisdom.
“Learn what the board does. If you love music and can’t get enough of it then you will have so much fun in this industry no matter how far you want to take it. DJing can get so complicated but only if you make it. Have fun with it and if you’re serious about getting booked make sure you know how a board works and how to be professional when
As Cerviari continues to balance his college life with his growing career as a DJ, one thing is clear: his journey is only just e energy he brings to every set, the connection he fosters with his audience, and the passion he pours into his cra are all hallmarks of a future that promises more than just loud music and packed dance #oors.
For him, DJing is a way to tell stories, create moments, and bring people together, skills that will serve him well no matter
The Sweet Escape
Gwen Stefani
American Boy Estelle, Kanye West
360 Charli xcx
Knock Knwock Mac Miller
Starships
Nicki Minaj
Doses & Mimosas Cherub
Hotel Room Service Pitbull
Misery Maroon 5
Claity Zedd, Foxes
Temperature
Sean Paul
Cooler Than Me Mike Posner
Lip Gloss
Miami – a city brimming with activity, where sports often take a back seat to the vibrant culture and nonstop action. For many of the city’s professional and collegiate teams, the fan bases tend to follow a bandwagon mentality, showing up only when the team is winning. But in the heart of one of the most volatile sports cities in the US, where fans are quick to turn their attention elsewhere, Category 5 — Cat 5 — stands strong, unwavering in its commitment to keeping the University of Miami’s sports spirit alive and well, no matter the score.
Cat 5 is known as ‘the Spirit Programming Board focused on preserving and implementing traditions related to sports and spirit’, according to their website, it is so much more than its description.
Part of UM’s Student Government, Cat 5, which was o&cially founded in 2012, works closely with the Athletic Department to enhance the student experience at home games, aiming to attract greater numbers of fans. eir in#uence stretches across all sports, but can be heavily felt at the Watsco Center, home of UM Men’s and Women’s Basketball Teams.
is year, Cat 5 is bringing a fresh twist to themed sporting events. Every home game is welcomed with a speci%c decade-themed atmosphere.
“By tapping into pop culture from di$erent eras we’ve seen fans participate in themed activities and get more involved in the overall game-day atmosphere,” Cat 5’s Olympic Sports Chair Myles Kaye said. “While attendance is always in#uenced by team performance, these themes have helped create a fun and memorable experience regardless of the scoreboard.”
But how does Cat 5 make it all happen?
“It all starts with Athletics selecting the decade theme and managing mass promotion,” Kaye said. “Once the theme is set, Cat 5 steps in to enhance the experience by creating a themed giveaway that ties into the decade. From there, we work with Athletics, Cheer, and the band to bring the theme to life and keep the energy high. We also ensure everything runs smoothly on game day, from in-game engagement to coordinating various game-day activations.”
Kaye isn’t the only one working on organizing the student body. Cat 5 has a crew of participants to help support the ‘Canes athletes in all their endeavors. One member, Freshman Max Butterfass, spoke on behalf of Cat 5 regarding the events he attended this semester.
“I went to the Binghamton, Arkansas and Virginia games,” he said. “At the Virginia game, which was 60s night, you could tell that the crowd’s energy hadn’t diminished much. People still cheer and get excited. e fan energy has remained hopeful and energetic, despite some on court frustration, and Cat 5 does a great job fostering that.”
Cat 5 does more than just sit front row at these games, though. Butterfass shared some insight on how they bring their themed games to life.
“We brainstorm the themes during the meetings. I’m on the basketball committee so we’ll discuss methods for student engagement.”
In creating an atmosphere for students to support the student athletes, Cat 5 plays a huge role in generating momentum for the ‘Canes. Without the swell of the crowd’s voices in support of the orange and green, UM’s sports would falter.
Back in February, as the Hurricanes welcomed big-hitters Notre Dame, Cat 5 brought 80s vibes to the arena. Kaye recalls, “ e energy in the arena was unmatched because everyone really embraced the theme— the music was spot-on and the giveaway for the game was a huge hit. It felt like more than just a basketball game; it was an immersive experience that brought students together as we defeated Notre Dame.”
e Hurricanes Men’s Basketball team defeated Notre Dame 63-57, ending a tengame losing streak and shining a glimmer of hope for the fans. “It’s more challenging to bring in fans during a tough season,” Kaye said. “But the student turnout was high against Notre Dame, the themed contests and music kept the energy levels up throughout the game, and we won. It de%nitely was the most successful game so far in the season.”
Indeed, despite the team’s recent struggles on the court, o$ it, Cat 5 is continuing to garner interest in the games. Whether it is by organizing unique giveaways or preparing themes for the students to participate in, the goal is to make every game an event worth attending. is season, Cat 5 also introduced a new feature to the Watsco experience: e Category 5 Hurricane Crank.
“ is is one of the new things we tried to help hype up the arena and student section as we come out of the hal ime break, and it’s been a hit,” Kaye said. “ e feedback has been positive, and I think we’ll continue this new tradition and bring it back in future seasons to keep enhancing the student experience.”
While Hurricane’s Men’s Basketball season didn’t end in an NCAA Tournament, fans can expect to continue seeing Cat 5 at future sporting events wailing their Hurricane Crank. Yet, Cat 5 knows it can go even further with its work.
“While the promotions were strong, one thing I wish had gone di$erently was expanding our promotions to new channels,” Kaye said. “ e earlier and easier we get the information to students, the better. So, despite this season’s success in promotion, there’s always room to improve. We will take what we’ve learned this season to help make next year even better.”
Cat 5 is extremely active in Hurricane Athletics, so always make sure to keep an eye out for their members at Hurricane games, #ying the Cat 5 #ag and making their Hurricane Crank scream.
In the heart of Miami Beach stands The Villa Casa Casuarina At The Former Versace Mansion, a historic gem renowned for its Instagram-worthy grandeur, international cuisine, and iconic former residents, including designer-fashion icon Gianni Versace himself, who made the villa what it is today. The Villa isn’t just a place—it’s a history lesson waiting to be told. Today, The Villa Casa Casuarina is known for being the second most Instagrammed location in the United States. But what is it about the Villa that makes it so captivating?
words_elizabeth agurto. design_sal puma
Alden Freeman built Casa Casuarina in 1930, deeming him the original architect of the Villa. When his father Joel Freeman, Treasurer of the Rockefeller’s Standard Oil Trust, died in 1910, he le his son a large fortune, allowing him to retire at age 27 and travel the world.
Freeman visited the Alcazar De Colon in Santo Domingo, in the Dominican Republic, built by Diego Columbus — Christopher Columbus’s son — and known as the oldest residence in the Western Hemisphere. Freeman fell in love with the house and decided to build his own home on Miami Beach in a similar style.
e property had a total of 24 apartments: Freeman lived in the top-#oor-front apartment and the remaining 23 apartments in the building were available for rent and to house many of Freeman’s friends that visited Miami Beach. Freeman died at Casa Casuarina, only seven years a er the mansion was built.
Many years later, in 1992, Gianni Versace visited Miami Beach with his family. Walking down Ocean Drive, Versace fell in love with the “Kneeling Aphrodite” statue outside e Villa. e beautiful Spanish architecture and his obsession with Greek and Roman mythology convinced Versace to buy the house for $2.95 million and the lot next door.
Versace invested $32 million in renovations. He added the South wing, the pool and garden and turned the 24 apartments into 10 large suites in the original house and two additional new suites in the South wing, thus e Versace Mansion was born. e renovations took three years to complete. Gianni’s friends and family also le their mark on the villa: his brother Santo’s bedroom is the Venus Room while his sister Donatella’s bedroom is the Signature Suite.
Versace was killed on the front steps of his mansion on July 15, 1997, %ve years a er purchasing the home. What remains from the Versace period are the decorated walls, #oors, ceilings, and windows, the pool, garden and South Wing.
To truly understand the legacy of Casa Casuarina, one must %rst take a closer look at the man behind the legend – Gianni Versace.
Gianni Versace was born on December 2, 1946, in Reggio Calabria, Italy. He spent many moments of his childhood watching his mother, a dressmaker, work on designs in her boutique. A er Versace graduated high school, he would spend time at his mother’s shop before he moved to Milan in 1972 to work for Italian ateliers like Mario Valentino. With the support of the Girombellis, an Italian fashion family, Versace was able to
establish his own company called Gianni Versace SpA in 1978. His brother Santo acted as CEO of the company, and his sister Donatella became a designer and Vice President. Versace worked hard to design in the 1980s and ‘70s and built his fashion line around sensuality and sexuality. His most famous designs included bondage gear, polyvinyl chloride baby-doll dresses and silver-mesh togas.
Versace received criticism for his “#ashy, vulgar designs.” Unbothered by these comments, Versace staged his seasonal fashion shows as rock concerts at his design headquarters in Milan. As he became more successful, Versace began establishing boutiques throughout the United States with the help of his family. Versace is credited for turning the fashion world into what it is today.
Today, Casa Casuarina is under new ownership introducing new faces and embracing a new era while preserving its historic charm and Versace’s legacy.
e family behind Jordache Enterprises, an American clothing company that is known for its designer jeans, purchased Casa Casuarina in 2013. rough VM South Beach LLC, the Nakash family acquired the mansion for $41.5 million, beating out a $41 million bid from Donald Trump, at a bankruptcy auction held in Miami. When the Nakash family %rst purchased the property, Joe Nakash mentioned that people take more pictures in front of it than they do the White House because they can’t get in and that the Nakash family wants people to be able to enter and see it.
A few years later, the mansion opened its doors to the public and allowed people to interact with the property by turning it into a hotel with a restaurant.
Ali Nural, the Regional General Manager for the Victor Hotels, owned by the Nakash family, says,“We have not changed anything in the past 12 years, other than converting downstairs into a restaurant.”
e management remains true to the Versace legacy by not changing anything within the rooms but rather keeping up with the occasional maintenance.
Within the hotel market, e Villa is considered a luxury boutique hotel yet its rich history proves to be much more. As a luxury boutique hotel, it o$ers a highly exclusive and intimate experience, leaving people to wonder: What happens behind those doors?
e hotel itself caters to the a uent travelers who seek a unique stay with both a historical and cultural appeal. Versace’s design in#uence and elaborate style is displayed and preserved in every room. Since the hotel only has 13 suites, it is considered very exclusive, having high rates year-round. e typical price estimate per room per night can range from $600 for the Premier Suites to +$1,500 for the Royal
Suites. Prices also vary depending on the season.
In the media, the hotel’s brand is known for its luxury, exclusive and private suites where each room is personalized and intricate. However, it is also known for its over one million italian mosaic tiles, its resident artist on suite, its 54 ., 24-karat gold lined pool, its Versace-velvet furniture, and many more experiences that reminisce the lavish lifestyle of Gianni Versace.
University of Miami junior, Elle Mannion, who hopes to pursue a career in fashion entrepreneurship, describes the intricacies of Versace’s design as, “very meticulous and detailed, which is very re#ected throughout the Mansion, especially in the mosaic pools at the restaurant. I also noticed the re#ection of Gianni’s style in the painting of the Manions internal walls and ceilings, which tend to feature tedious, hand-painted murals.”
Versace’s style can be experienced within the mansion, leaving guests fascinated with their surroundings.
Nural says, “Everyone loves Versace, people admire Versace, so people come to see his legacy and want to experience it. It’s a feeling of luxury.”
is idea of luxury motivates celebrity guests to visit the mansion. Some of the original celebrity guests include fashion icons such as Karl Lagerfeld, Madonna and
Anna Wintour. Similarly, Gianni’s close friends such as the late Princess Diana and Elton John also visited the mansion. Contemporary celebrities have also paid a visit to the mansion in recent years including: Kim Kardasian, Kanye West, Beyonce, Jay-Z, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Justin Bieber and Lil Wayne.
Junior Caitlyn Freitas visited the mansion and says, “Just by looking at the house, you can tell it’s very expensive, almost elegant yet #ashy. It’s de%nitely giving Italian glamour.”
Guests can also book private events at Casa Casuarina such as weddings, corporate events, fundraisers, award ceremonies, and fashion shows. According to Nural, e Villa throws both exclusive and open events for Art Basel and Miami Swim Week.
e Villa at Casa Casuarina is considered an architectural landmark as it was designed and remodeled by Versace “with in#uences from both the Roman and Ottoman Empire,” Nural says.
is rich and cultural hub, standing in all its grandeur, is protected under historical preservation for many more generations to enjoy. Mannion says, “Preserving e Mansion’s style and architecture pays homage to the legendary designer who lived there, which showcases Miami’s appreciation for art, fashion and the highlight of di$erent cultures.”
Architecture fanatics can enjoy exploring the building, observing the beauty of the culturally-rich design. e Villa’s association with Gianni Versce and the Versace brand makes the Villa appealing to art and design enthusiasts everywhere.
“Being the home and landmark of one of the world’s most known and loved luxury fashion designers solidi%es Miami’s large presence in the fashion world,” Mannion says.
Gianni’s restaurant’s %ne dining experience, featuring Italian cuisine from the famous Valter Mancini, appeals to all the Instagram foodies who enjoy dining with a view.
No matter what you are interested in, e Villa at Casa Casuarina, is sure to leave you in awe.
Within the world of professional designers, Casa Casuarina is %rst and foremost, a home. It was a home to Freeman and Versace, both of which their di$erent styles and tastes, is shown throughout e Villa.
What makes this hotel special is that the owners of the hotel designed it, and built it, to their own tastes because they knew they were going to make this their forever home.
Today, their legacies live on, every day, as visitors walk in through their doors, hopping to be immersed in the world that is Casa Casuarina.
What the Fork is a foodie’s paradise, stuffed with mouth-watering recipes and hidden-gem restaurants. Go behind the scenes at 107 Taste, the restaurant blending Asian fusion with Miami fair. Dive into the oddly addictive world of mukbangs. And follow our caffeinefueled crawl across UM’s campus to fnd the best brews.
photo&design_valentina gomez.
Sometimes, basic is best. Starbucks is the spot for students who appreciate triedand-true quality co$ee and the convenience of ordering ahead on the app.
“I know it’s basic, but I love the Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso. My friend put me on last year and I’ve been hooked ever since,” said Jordan Brown, a junior majoring in accounting.
Starbucks is a mecca for specialty drinks, with new seasonal o$erings emerging every couple of months to celebrate each solstice or holiday.
Located on the %rst #oor of Shalala, Starbucks’ central location makes it easily accessible from anywhere on campus.
Brown said a major incentive for her is the opportunity to earn rewards by ordering ahead on the app. “It’s so satisfying for me to see my gold stars add up, and then eventually, I get a free drink.”
Starbucks is also a notoriously fantastic spot to study, with plenty of seating and outlets for long sessions. It stays open until 11 p.m. for those who wish to spend long hours sipping and studying.
For all things Cuban co$ee, Vicky’s is the campus go-to. Despite being tucked away in the back of the Hurricane Food Court, Vicky Bakery stirs up quite the crowd, almost always having a line. ey o$er sandwiches and traditional Cuban pastries to those looking for a lunch on the go.
Bahar Arian, a sophomore majoring in civil engineering, said she recalls how during her %rst semester at UM, her First Year Directions TA always talked about Vicky’s.
“I was like ‘seriously, it’s just a little café in the back of the food court.””
Arian said she eventually began going to Vicky’s to get Colada co$ees as a midday treat and loves their Cuban co$ee.
“ ey use a special espresso and their co$ee just has a #avor and richness that’s so delicious,” said Arian.
e authentic Cuban co$ee shop sells classic Cuban co$ee options, like colada and cortadito. Notably, they also sell an iced version of Café con Leche and have doubleshot options for some Cuban co$ees.
There’s nothing quite like a Cup of Joe to get through energy dips on a never-ending day. Fortunately for University of Miami students, campus is buzzing with cafés and co!ee spots. Whether you’re grabbing a latte to-go or searching for your new favorite study spot, we’ve mapped out which coffee spots will get you through your daily grind.
While this long-running campus establishment serves Pete’s Co$ee, its name is not to be confused — most students refer to it as “Archivist.”
Its proximity to Richter Library makes it the ideal place to grab a co$ee during a good, old-fashioned study session.
“ e best part about Archivist is the location it’s in,” said Regina Potenza, a senior majoring in broadcast journalism. “It’s so easy to get to because it’s so close to both the library and the classrooms.”
Carol Osoria, who has been the supervisor for over four years, said her favorite drink is currently the golden latte with almond milk. “It’s made of turmeric and ginger, and with the syrup, it’s so much smoother. It’s awesome,” said Osoria.
Osoria said her sta$ of six takes pride in their customer service.
“It’s like a small, little family and we always have the music on and are just making sure our customers are happy,” said Osoria. “I take care of my customers. ey’re my home.”
If you look at Half Moon and see merely an empanada stand, look closer. Besides an assortment of delicious empanadas, Half Moon also has a selection of co$ee items for your grab-and-go convenience.
“It’s perfect for me to get my ca$eine %x in between classes,” said Madison Coll, a senior majoring in advertising. “ I go almost every day.It’s gotten to the point where they remember my order before I even say it.”
Half Moon’s co$ee menu features all the classic co$ee staples. While they o$er #avored syrups and alternative kinds of milk, it’s worth noting that they do not serve signature or specialty drinks. However, they do dabble in Cuban co$ee, serving coladas, cortaditos and café con leche at their three on-campus locations.
Should you %nd yourself craving a quick empanada and co$ee in between classes, head to the Herbert Business School, the School of Communications or the Jenkins building for a quick %x.
Mukbangs, originating in South Korea, are viral videos where hosts eat large quantities of food while interacting with viewers. The trend blends entertainment, food culture, and social connection, o!ering comfort for some. However, it raises concerns about unhealthy eating habits, body image, and food waste, despite its global popularity.
words_rafael jennings. photos_valentina gomez. design_anna mondschein.
On September 6. 2024, a er a %ve-month hiatus mukbang creator, Nickocado Avocado posted a video titled “Two Steps Ahead” to his YouTube channel. e now 50 million time viewed video was an announcement of his 250-pound weight loss.
Since switching from Vegan content to pasta-%lled, cheese-dripping mukbang videos, Nickocado has amassed 4.6 million subscribers and over 2 billion views. Yet, Nickocado is not an outlier in this brand of internet fame. Rather, a
pioneer in the category.
With over 5.3 million TikTok videos using the #mukbang (Tiktok, 2025), mukbang has become the new frontier of Digital Media. is popularity begs the question, what does the future of mukbang look like, and how do we look next to it?
e word, mukbang, is a combination of the Korean words meongneun (먹는), and bangsong (방송). in English it translates to “eating broadcast” or “eatcast”. Before global popularity, mukbang gained popularity in
South Korea through livestreams on the South Korean platform AfreecaTV in 2009. In contrast to the uber-healthy food culture that dominated Korean eating trends in the early 2000s, mukbang gave South Koreans an outlet to enjoy socially con#icting eating habits and eventually rose to popularity.
Exploring culture through food is a de%ning feature of mukbang. Stephanie Soo, a Korean American mukbang video creator has assembled an audience of 4.71 million YouTube subscribers for her mukbang Storytime content which o en centers on Asian dishes and Asian stories.
Dr. Paddieh Lovan- an adjunct professor at the University of Miami, Postdoctoral Associate, Registered Dietitian, and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist- shared her thoughts on mukbang and its promotion of culture.
“It (mukbang) has a sort of globalization of food.” Dr. Lovan added, “ at’s a good aspect of it (mukbang) we learn about food, di$erent foods across the world.”
From home-cooked lunches, and Wingstop feasts, to the infamous Chamoy pickle mukbang is a visual bu$et, ready to satisfy any craving with just a search.
Lauryn Wynn, a freshman studying Biology on the Pre-Med track at the University of Miami, shared her mukbang viewing habits.
“I usually watch them (mukbang) if I’m hungry and do not have any food.” Lauryn then added, “If I have an almond, I’ll think, okay, maybe I’m eating the same thing they are.”
Dr. Lovan spoke on the role that cravings play in mukbang enjoyment.
“Watching these videos can also cause craving. e sounds and the visuals can cause you craving.” She added, “Even if you’re full, you just had lunch, and next thing you know, it can actually stimulate you to have a bowl of Ramen, for example.”
In 2022, 2.5 billion adults worldwide su$ered from being overweight, with 890 million of that group being obese (World Health Organization, 2025). One factor contributing to overweight and obesity can be the overconsumption of calorie-dense foods. is behavior can inadvertently be promoted through mukbang content.
In a 2023 study, it was recorded that individuals who experienced more intense symptoms of binge eating were linked to “more problematic” mukbang viewership. (Ash et al., 2023). e study also found that 34% of study participants watched mukbang content daily.
e popularity of mukbang content has turned regular people into internet celebrities. When likes, views, and shares content made to gratify the hunger of a worldwide audience, there is an extremity some creators utilize to popularize their content.
In July 2024, Pan Xiaoting, a Chinese mukbang creator, collapsed and died while live streaming herself eating. Pan was a consistent mukbang creator and had garnered a strong audience. According to her autopsy, she had 22 pounds of undigested food in her stomach at her time of death. is occurred a er she promised her followers she would live-stream herself eating 22 pounds of food. She is not the %rst mukbang in#uencer to die from food-related complications.
While the motivations for binge eating and mukbang content creation di$er, they can present themselves similarly. e large quantities of food consumption that %ll for-
you-pages, and YouTubesuggested pages mirror aspects of binge eating behavior (Kang et al., 2020).
In a 2020 study that analyzed patterns in mukbang YouTube videos, the researchers concluded that 91.5 percent of the videos analyzed showed consumption of delivered, restaurant, and store-bought food. Additionally, 83.5 percent of the videos showed overeating.
Etienne Atanga, an Undergraduate Neuroscience Major, at the University of Miami, who is currently researching the Neurological motivations for Binge Eating, shared his view of mukbang viewership.
“(mukbang) might normalize overeating for some viewers, while for others, they might serve as a kind of vicarious satisfaction.”
As of right now, the e$ects of mukbang viewership remain ambiguous. However, we know that social media has an undeniable hand in the way Gen Z views food and body image.
Dr. Sarah Ravin, a Miami-based Psychologist, who specializes in eating disorder, anxiety disorder, depression, and body dysmorphia treatment, o$ered her professional perspective on social media’s role in perceptions of food and body.
“ is generation has been bombarded with food advertising…” She added, “I would recommend that people who are struggling with food take a break from food-related social media…” or “seeking counseling from a therapist who specializes in eating disorders and/or a dietitian who can o$er nutritional counseling.”
With viral obsessions like Crumbl Cookie, the Dubai Chocolate, and Cottage Cheese recipes, it doesn’t look like our fascination with food media is going to end. Even a creator like Nickocado Avocado has returned to his mukbang videos, while simultaneously chronicling his weight loss and health journey. However, it is important to be intentional in our viewership. Remind ourselves what we’re seeing is not always real or healthy can save us from passive mental health e$ects. When it comes to mukbang maybe we need to make a mental label before indulging.
Having just opened its fifth location, the authentic Asian flavors and warm, inviting atmosphere of 107 Taste clearly capture the hearts and stomachs of Miami’s food scene. Founded by two Chinese immigrants, 107 Taste is not just another fusion restaurant, but a shared dream that combines traditional Asian cooking techniques with innovative flavors that keep you coming back for more.
words_charlote deangelis. design_sal puma. photos_valereia barbaglio.
Founder and head chef of 107 Taste, Yu Bi, described her restaurant in a few words.
“107 Taste is where you come to discover bold #avors, try something you didn’t know you’d love, and feel genuinely welcomed,” said Chef Bi. “It’s where tradition meets trend in the best way possible — and where every bite has a backstory.”
Chef Bi and her husband, Dr. Tingjun Lei, founded 107 Taste in 2016. ey %rst connected over a shared love of Asian cuisine as students at Florida International University. For them, food served as a reminder of their Chinese origins and allowed them to build community in both a fun and meaningful way.
e name “107 Taste” is a reference to 107th Avenue in Miami. Bi and Lei %rst met and lived on 107th Avenue as students, with the %rst 107 Taste location opening just minutes away from FIU’s campus.
“It’s where our friendship, love and dream of owning a restaurant began,” said Bi. “[107 Taste] re#ects our journey as immigrants rooted in culture, built on resilience and shared through food.”
In addition to the original FIU location, 107 Taste restaurants have opened in Miami Lakes, Coral Gables, Brickell and, most recently, in South Miami.
Chef Bi said her biggest culinary inspiration is her grandmother, Yuanfang Pu, a recognized chef in China in the 1960s. Under her guidance, Bi began preparing food for her family and friends at a young age.
Bi learned to wok-fry, braise and layer umami #avors from her grandmother. Today, she adds a modern twist to these traditional techniques, creating dishes with unique #avors, textures and presentations.
“Fusion allowed [Dr. Lei and I] to express their full culinary identity,” said Bi. “It gave us the #exibility to stay true to traditional Asian techniques while re#ecting our experiences living in multicultural South Florida.”
Although both Bi and Lei are both Chinese, 107 Taste promises patrons to be a “bite of Asia,” bringing in elements of cuisines from many Asian countries.
Megan Sabates, a junior sociology and criminology major, said she appreciates this diversity.
“I love Pan-Asian cuisine, and [107 Taste’s] menu gives you the chance to explore dishes from various Asian cultures all in one place,” said Sabates.
Each dish at 107 Taste is a unique combination of tradition and innovation, and intentionality is the key to %nding the perfect balance.
“It’s not about mixing for the sake of it. It’s about telling stories through #avor,” said Bi. “Each dish must tell a story and earn its place on the menu.”
One of 107 Taste’s biggest draws is its authenticity.
“Authenticity isn’t just about replicating dishes from the past. It’s about honoring tradition with integrity while adapting to the present,” said Bi. “ at means cooking with traditional techniques, using high-quality ingredients and always bringing a personal story to the table.”
“Mama Pork Fried Rice” is a direct tribute to Bi’s grandmother and one of Bi’s personal favorite dishes.
“It’s simple, comforting and %lled with love — just like the way she used to make it,” said Bi. is homey feeling is also re#ected in the design of the restaurants themselves. 107 Taste aims to set itself apart from other Miami restaurants through its intimate yet fun atmosphere.
“107 Taste delivers handcra ed Asian #avors in a space that feels playful, artistic and unpretentious,” said Bi. “From anime murals and curated drinks, to nostalgic dishes and bold new creations, it’s not just a meal — it’s a vibe.”
Sabates, who said she enjoys the black
pepper yaki udon and the tteokbokki rice cakes, attests to the genuine feeling of 107 Taste.
“Being Asian myself, I do believe that 107 Taste is authentic because many of their dishes remind me of foods that I’ve grown up eating,” said Sabates. “Additionally, many of my Asian friends have really enjoyed this place, which I believe is a good sign that the restaurant maintains cultural authenticity.”
e new South Miami location is popular with students like Sabates because it’s a 10-minute drive from the University of Miami campus. And with each appetizer costing about $8-$10 and each entree $15$17, 107 Taste is an accessible option for students to dine casually on a budget.
In addition to introducing 107 Taste to a new Miami neighborhood, the South Miami location sets the precedent for upcoming 107 Taste locations and the brand as a whole. Bi aims to move towards a clean and modern, yet fun design aesthetic.
“107 Taste continues to evolve — not just in food, but in experience,” said Bi. “From aesthetic redesigns to creative new recipes, everything is done with intention. It’s not just about staying ahead — it’s about staying true.”
For anyone who likes to be a little adventurous in their kitchen, Chef Yu Bi shares some simplified recipes of 107 Taste’s most popular dishes. Below is their recipe for Sweet and Sour Pork, but go to their website to find more!
What You Need:
Pork: 1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces. Choose a tender cut for the best results.
Seasonings: Just a simple dash of salt and pepper.
Cornstarch: 1/2 cup to coat the pork, creating a light, crispy texture.
Vegetables: 1/2 onion, 1 bell pepper, and 3 green onions, all chopped. ese add freshness and a bit of crunch.
Pineapple: 1/2 cup of chunks for a sweet, tangy contrast.
Oil: For frying, ensuring your pork pieces are beautifully golden and delicious.
For the Sauce:
Combine 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/3 cup sugar, and 1 tbsp soy sauce in a bowl. is mixture will create the perfect sweet and sour base. icken it with 1 tsp of cornstarch dissolved in 1 tbsp water.
Creating Your Dish:
Prepare the Pork: Season the pork pieces with salt and pepper, then coat them evenly in cornstarch. Shake o$ any excess before frying.
Fry to Perfection: Heat oil in a pan and fry the pork until it’s crispy and golden. Remove and let it drain on a paper towel.
Sauce Magic: In a separate pan, sauté your onion and bell pepper until they start to so en. Add the pineapple chunks, then pour in your sauce mixture. Let it simmer until it begins to thicken.
Combine and Serve: Add the fried pork back into the pan, mixing well to ensure each piece is coated in the sauce. Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, sprinkle in the green onions for an extra layer of #avor.
Enjoy: Serve your Sweet and Sour Pork hot, ideally over a bed of #u$y white rice. It’s a dish that brings joy and warmth to any table.
This issue’s special section, “Heroes,” is all about icons — the bold and legendary with a touch of wicked. We’re scouting Miami’s best hero sandwiches, because yes, your lunch can be heroic. Say farewell to the MCU sweeping infuence as our superstars lose their spark. Delve into the campus legends that leave a lasting impression at UM. And giving it up for the real ones: healthcare heroes who keep showing up. None of the heroes ahead wear capes.
photo&design_valentina gomez.
Call it a hoagie, a hero or just lunch — but in South Florida, the sandwich is having a moment. From neighborhood delis with decades of loyal regulars to chic cafés slinging $15 egg sandwiches, discover the best bites that prove great things really do come between two slices of bread. Whether you’re craving melty, meaty, massive, crispy or clean, these are the sandwiches worth every dollar and carb.
words_lizzie kristal. illustration&design_joel wainberg.
1
Publix Pub-Sub
No list of South Florida’s best sandwiches would be complete without a nod to the legendary Pub-Sub. Found in nearly every corner of the region, these deli-counter staples from Publix Super Markets have developed a near-religious following — and for good reason. e magic lies in total ability for customization. Freshly-baked bread, a wide array of toppings and shockingly good prices make Publix subs not just a regional favorite, but a rite of passage for locals. It’s not fancy, but it’s damn near sacred.
2
Monster Hoagie
A South Florida icon since the ‘70s, Laspada’s doesn’t just make hoagies — they engineer them. eir signature move? e “meat toss,” where fresh-sliced deli meats are literally hurled across the counter onto your roll by a team that runs like a NASCAR pit crew. Try the Monster Hoagie that lives up to its name: a gravity-defying beast layered with turkey, ham and roast beef, plus all the toppings your heart can handle. It’s messy, it’s massive, and it’s magni%cent.
If you’ve never ended up at e Munch a er a wasted night-out and an unstoppable craving for carbs, then you haven’t lived. Tucked away from campus, e Munch is the kind of no-frills, all-#avor sandwich spot where the bread is so , the %llings are stacked and the sauce selection is endless. ere’s something about a Munch sandwich that just hits — greasy in all the right ways, perfectly toasted and built to soak up whatever’s le of the vodka RedBull in your system. Sober? Still incredible. But drunk? Next-level transcendence.
Yes, it’s basic. Yes, it’s overpriced. But somehow, it’s still worth every bite. ough their menu features a wide variety of items, the sandwiches stand out. Pura Vida has mastered the art of the bougie breakfastlunch crossover, and their Perfect Egg Sandwich lives up to the name — soboiled eggs, mozzarella, fresh veggies and pura vida sauce stacked on warm multigrain bread. It’s clean, satisfying and just indulgent enough to justify the $14.95 price tag. Pair it with an iced matcha and call it your new guilty pleasure on campus.
Katie’s Chicken Sandwich
At this dreamy French café with locations tucked around South Florida, you might not expect to %nd some of the most satisfying sandwiches — but Katie’s Chicken
Sandwich is a revelation: juicy chicken layered with arugula, roasted red peppers and a perfect basil aioli, all hugged by a baguette. It’s a re%ned, crave-worthy take on comfort food, and somehow still feels light enough to pair with a lavender latte. Très magni%que.
A neighborhood staple that’s been serving up gourmet comfort since the ‘90s, Joanna’s is where sandwich dreams come true. eir counter is a choose-your-own-adventure of perfectly stacked creations, from classics done-right to gourmet-builds you didn’t know you needed. ey’re stacked with heavy hitters, but #3 “An Homage to Z” is a true standout, layered with corned beef, coleslaw and mustard, topped on their house-baked rye bread. One bite and you’ll know why locals are hooked.
The year is 2019, and your local theater is packed with people. You collectively hover on the edge of your seats in heart-pounding tandem. Two hundred collective pairs of eyes are glued to Tony Stark, who raises his fist with the coveted infinity gauntlet. A snap of his fingers, and the crowd hangs on to the last climactic moments of arguably the greatest Marvel film ever made. While this snap brought life to billions in the movie, it symbolized the soon-to-be death of Marvel’s movie magic words_kelsey conrad. illustration&design_lizzie kristal.
Whether you’re a Marvel bu$ who knows the comics inside-out or you can’t articulate who wields the shield and who uses the hammer, it’s clear to most that the Marvel Cinematic Universe is on the decline.
Metascore is a weighted average of critic reviews for %lm. A score above 70 indicates a successful, well-received %lm. “Avengers: Endgame” and “Black Panther,” released at the franchises’ peak, achieved impressive scores of 78 and 88.
In stark contrast, MCU’s most recent %lm, “Captain America: Brave New World,” received a score of 42. is is the lowest Metascore in MCU history. So, what are the leading causes for these box o&ce bombs?
Maximus De Leone Valle, a sophomore majoring in motion picture business and political economics, serves as the philanthropy chair for the University of Miami’s cinematic arts society, Delta Kappa Alpha.
“I feel like the story quality has gone down tremendously because they’re focusing only on the multiverse,” said Valle in regards to the MCU universe.
e MCU’s multiverse was o&cially introduced with the “Wandavision” series
in 2021. What was once an enticing concept to fans now elicits a groan from those who want to enjoy a Marvel %lm with actual stakes. Alternate timelines are cool, which the multiverse permits, but as %lms lose their meaning and exist purely to set up the next installment, people lose interest.
Junior Sophie Hudson, an avid Marvel enthusiast majoring in marine biology and ecology, spoke on the changes she’s seen within the MCU. “” ey’ve started to abandon that whole idea of ‘let’s make a very interconnected universe,’” said Hudson. “( ey) are replacing it with ‘just how much can we pay Robert Downey Jr. to do more stu$ ?’”
Downey Jr.’s planned return to the franchise as Doctor Doom in 2026 is generally well-received by fans, and how could it not be? As Iron Man, Downey Jr. was the face of Marvel for over a decade.
However, fans have stipulations on how his return should be executed.
“If he’s just a variant from another multiverse, that’s not original. I think that’s something that a kid could come up with,” Valle said.
e upcoming “Avengers: Doomsday” is set to release in 2026. Hopefully, its conception of the multiverse will excite rather than disappoint fans.
Many suggest that Marvel’s contending issue is their prioritization of quantity over quality.
“ at there’s this insistence to get as many %lms out as possible and not really think too much about what goes into them,” said Hudson. “Rather, it’s like, ‘Let’s get three %lms out for this year and then we can be done and ignore all the cracks we’ve made that don’t entirely link with previous things we’ve established.’”
Inconsistencies in plotlines and character development irk fans who’ve devoted so much time to the franchise.
Not only is the quantity of Marvel’s releases troubling for long-time fans, but it also deters those who’ve yet to dabble in the MCU.
Ellie Gibson, a junior majoring in marine a$airs, is pushed away from Marvel due to the sheer amount of movies.
“Because they are prioritizing quantity over quality, there’s so much to catch up on,” said Gibson. “ ey just want to keep pushing out more content … and not even stick to the comics.”
Marvel newbies have their work cut out for them if they hope to watch the upcoming “Avengers: Doomsday” %lm in theatres with a semblance of understanding.
Valle provided his input on how Marvel should rectify their quality issue.
“Focus on one speci%c track. You can’t bring back the X-Men, Fantastic Four and the Avengers all in one year,” said Valle. “Focus on making those movies good. Because if we get another bad Fantastic Four movie, I’m going to lose hope in Marvel.”
Andres Concha, a senior majoring in psychology and management, raised an important point regarding MCU.
“People are really tired of aliens,” said Concha.
A contributor to the prior success of MCU productions was the tangibility of themes in our existing world, like evil in New York.
“What people really like about the ‘Iron Man’ %lms, which are so classic, is that they were very about that time. In 2008, terrorism was still a really central theme in our country,” said Concha.
Although anos is an intimidating force in the Avengers %lms, there’s something to be said about a hero’s cause that the audience can connect with.
“It’s not like these esoteric threats — it’s man versus man,” said Concha of what makes a compelling villain. “I’m not really relating to the moral message of %ghting a big, purple, deformed grape.”
Aliens are beginning to aggravate. So are untimely character deaths. Warning: spoiler alerts ahead.
“I don’t like that they killed one of the few known female characters working in science, who is so smart and unique,” said Gibson of “ or: Love and under.” “ ey’re like, ‘We’re giving her cancer.’”
Jane Foster’s death in the fourth “ or” %lm tugged at heartstrings. While some Marvel deaths are staged with clear intentionality, not every hero goes out with a bang. Instead, some go out with a dissatisfying resolution to their character arc.
“ ey killed Natasha Romano$ because they didn’t know what to do with her character,” Gibson said .
Although Black Widow later received her own title %lm, some fans believe her plummet o$ of “Vormir” was not a proper farewell given her longstanding position in the MCU.
“Heroes” e decline of the MCU coincides with the rise of video game adaptations. Professor Rechna Varma, an esteemed producer who teaches creative producing and motion picture studio courses, nodded to superhero fatigue and recent box o&ce successes.
“We’re seeing ‘Minecra ’ knock it out of the park this weekend. Is that the new milieu? We’re doubling down on IP that’s now video games,” Varma said.
“A Minecra Movie,” “ e Super Mario Bros. Movie,” “ e Last of Us” and “Fall Out”
are all sensational, box o&ce hits released in the short span of two years. It seems Youtuber cameos appeal to younger generations more than A-list celebrities do.
“Maybe the superheroes are going to go on ice for a little bit because people are living in video game land,” Varma said.
In a post-pandemic society, streaming services compete with theatrical experiences. Where does that leave a franchise that pro%ts from communal reaction in the cinema?
“You want to follow the economic structure, the political structure, the technological in#uence, and then you see and understand clearly what’s happening at the cinematic theater level,” said Varma.
With Disney+ thrown into the mix, many are opting to subscribe to the platform and forgo the theaters. However, Marvel movies are designed for the theatrical experience. ere are intentional pauses a er characters crack jokes, accounting for an audience’s laughter.
If Disney+ is now the primary method to watch a Marvel movie, does the %lm have the same emotional impact from the couch that it would in the theater?
“Deadpool had a lot of hype,” said Emil Tamayo, a junior majoring in advertising management.
e success of “Deadpool & Wolverine” may be an outlier, or it may be indicative of a turning point for the MCU. “ underbolts,” releasing May 2, will be a testament to Marvel’s future. Will there be a comeback?
“I don’t even know what that is,”said Tamayo of whether or not he will see MCU’s new “ underbolts” movie once it hits theaters.
at might just answer our question. Who knows — maybe MCU will have a redemption arc. Right now, however, they are at the falling action phase of their narrative arc.
As we celebrate 100 years of the University of Miami, it’s not just the milestones we honor—but the people behind them. The growth of our prestigious institution has been driven by those who spark change and shape our campus culture. Campus legends are everywhere—dedicated faculty, passionate students or even our iconic mascot. Who knows, maybe your lab partner or that person you’re always checking out at the gym is actually making a deeper impact than you’ve noticed yet.
words_remi turner. design_sal puma. photos_valereia barbaglio.
Roy Carrillo Zamora served as Student Government president during the 2024–25 academic year, leading the “Stand Forever” administration with a strong focus on student advocacy and proactive solutions.
Under his leadership, rideshare services were revamped with the launch of the Freebee initiative, providing students with a more reliable, late-night transportation option and extended service hours. As the Student Trustee, Carrillo Zamora became a powerful voice for student concerns—raising awareness about low Black enrollment and its impact on campus life, playing a key role in the presidential search process that led to the appointment of Joe Echeverria, and more.
Above all, Carrillo Zamora will be remembered for his genuine connection with students and his ability to humbly deliver the changes they wanted to see.
Mark Shapiro is a professor of professional practice and the associate dean of Undergraduate Career Development at the Miami Herbert Business School. He is o en recognized by students for his excellent career advice and bringing real world clients and experiences into the classroom, as it relates to business and law.
Shapiro created a course that all secondyear business majors are required to take: Professional Development and Success in the Workplace.
By connecting with students on a fundamental level around what truly matters to them, Shapiro a&rms that his support for their professional growth will extend beyond their time at the business school.“It’s all about sustained impact and recognizing that you can make a di$erence every day over a continuous period of time,” said Shapiro.
The Rathskeller e Rat–we all know it, we all love it. Whether you are a Trivia Tuesday frequenter or stop by occasionally for a pitcher with friends, chances are you’ve noticed a spirited fella in a graphic tee and jorts making sure the ship is sailing smoothly.
As the Rathskeller Advisory Board Chair, Salvatore Puma hosts traditional Rat events weekly, Tuesday to ursday, and special events like watch parties and the annual comedy show. In his position, Puma has personalized events at the Rat to match student desires and create more excitement regarding visits to UM’s belovedon-campus sports bar.
One initiative Puma is especially proud of was the 2025 Dragskeller Brunch hosted in collaboration with student organizations including United Black Students, Black Leaders for the Queer Community, Hurricane Productions and the LGBTQ Center. e Rat expert himself recommends the chicken quesadilla–everything on it, washed down with the famous Rat Margarita.
Mia Leonin, a senior lecturer in the Creative Writing program, has reimagined the English workshop to foster a more inclusive, comfortable space for students interested in exploring personal and diverse topics. In her poetry workshops, she begins each session with a mental health check-in, encouraging honest communication and emotional awareness.
“I’ve always gravitated toward connecting with students and encouraging them to be who they truly are on the page,” Leonin said.
Highly celebrated by English majors, Leonin is known for facilitating open, vulnerable conversations and spotlighting underrepresented voices—particularly writers of color and queer authors. She also broke new ground by teaching ENG 209, the %rst bilingual Spanish-English creative writing course at the University of Miami, reinstating her belief in the power of personal dialect and cultural expression.
Student %rst, entrepreneur second–that’s Andrés Concha. Aside from his academic pursuits as a senior psychology major and marketing minor here at UM, Concha is also the Founder and president of the Leaders of Tomorrow Initiative (LTI).
LTI is a non-pro%t leadership community that unites ambitious university students from all di$erent corners of campus and provides them with resources such as networking opportunities. “We build very tight knit communities of ambitious people by bringing students together on a regular basis and discussing personal issues,” said Concha.
Most recognize Concha as the legendary “suit guy” on campus, who sits outside of Starbucks locked in on his computer and looking like an Armani model. He is testimony that con%dently presenting one’s self in a world full of chance encounters is model behavior for future leaders of society
Whether you’ve experienced the impact of Alyse Lancaster as one of the swi ies who took STC 290: e Mastermind of the Taylor Swi Brand, or as a communication student who has reaped the bene%ts of her legendary changes, she, is a pillarstone legend of UM as we know it today.
roughout her 19 years at UM as an associate professor and vice dean for academic a$airs at the School of Communication, Lancaster has gone above and beyond by reshaping the advertising program through creating two distinct tracks to optimize student experiences and career goals. “A legend is always there to remind people that they are a constant source of support and assistance,” said Lancaster. She feels most recognized for her impact when graduated students reconnect with her, o en many years later, and thank her for her impact and knowledge she taught them.
Aris Montero is one of those students who truly bleeds orange and green. A senior double majoring in creative advertising and communication studies, she has embraced a wide range of leadership roles during her time at the University of Miami.
Montero has served as chair of Hurricane Productions (HP), vice chair of the Homecoming Executive Committee, an orientation leader, president of Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK), and more. She’s best known for overseeing HP programming, from weekly campus events to large-scale celebrations like the Centennial Canes Carnival.
“I’ve fostered more initiatives that increase internal morale on campus—not only satisfying students, but also the HP family,” Montero said, proud of the excitement she’s helped bring to campus life. Her impact hasn’t gone unnoticed. Montero has been tapped into the Iron Arrow Society, the highest honor attainable at UM.
Stephanie Fleitas serves as the associate director of student a$airs in the Department of Orientation and Commuter Student Involvement. She’s one of the %rst smiling faces to welcome new Canes during Cane Kicko$, UM’s freshman orientation. Besides planning and facilitating, much of her work focuses on developing programs tailored to commuter and transfer students.
Fleitas played a key role in transforming Great Start, a pre-orientation program that helps %rst-year commuter students transition smoothly to campus life. anks to her e$orts, the program is now a required step for incoming commuter students.
Fleitas is known for being the best hype person–always upli ing students and helping them to become the best versions of themselves. Fleitas has been recognized for her e$orts by being tapped by ODK and the Iron Arrow Society, and gives back as a ‘hype woman’ through tapping many students that work under her jurisdiction.
You’ve seen his face on your feed plenty of times: Balaj Raza, a junior double majoring in Public Relations and Journalism. Raza is recognizable thanks to his Canes Creator position for UM’s social media platforms. Raza produces content to highlight the school’s attributes and resources and is best known for his new dorm tour series for UM’s channels that went viral earlier this year.
Raza has surpassed 4 million views with all of his UM content by providing %rst hand accounts of what it means to be a proud Cane.“ rough my content that focuses on the student body, I’m able to transparently show student lifestyles on campus and what UM has to o$er,” said Raz
From emergency medical services to physicians researching cures for widespread diseases, healthcare workers often go to the greatest lengths for their patients. Healthcare workers tend to share one common goal, no matter their field: to leave their patients better than they were before being treated. As an accredited research institution, the University of Miami breeds the future of the healthcare industry in its undergraduate and graduate programs. Distraction interviewed four current students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare to find out what keeps them motivated and what they’re looking forward to when they begin their work in the clinical setting.
UM does not require students to o&cially declare a major until the second semester of their sophomore year, so students o en %nd themselves deviating from their original plans before the deadline. For students on the pre-medical track, the rigor of coursework from their %rst semester alone can make them rethink their choice of %eld.
“From long nights in the library to attending three-hour chemistry labs, this track is de%nitely not for everyone,” said Joe Palsha, a %rst year biology and psychology double-major. “It requires a lot of hard work and dedication, but as long as you’re willing to put the time and e$ort in, it is de%nitely doable for anyone.”Palsha said he knew he wanted to work in medicine from a young age. His favorite TV show as a child was “ e Untold Stories of the ER,” and by the time he reached the eighth grade, Palsha was determined to become a neurosurgeon and discover a cure for paralysis.
“Towards the end of eighth grade, my best friend’s dad le for work one morning and got into a terrible car crash,” said Palsha. “ e crash le him paralyzed from the waist down, and a er I saw how much that one event changed not only his life, but the lives of everyone around him, I knew the brain, spine and curing paralysis was what I wanted to dedicate my future to.”
Since that fateful day, in addition to his coursework, Palsha has volunteered at hospitals, interned with neurosurgeons and observed surgeries in the operating room. While his classes may be tedious, remembering the ultimate goal he set for himself all those years ago keeps him motivated now and will keep him going through years of schooling.
Not everyone knows what they want to be when they get to college, and not everyone knows what they want to be by the time they graduate.
Regan King, a junior who is majoring in health science on the pre-pharmacy track, said switching her major from psychology during her sophomore year came with its challenges.
“I was scared when I changed my major and worried I would fail my classes or just not be good enough for pharmacy. Now, I still have doubts all the time,” said King. “Whenever I get a mediocre grade back or hear about how light my friend’s course load is, I second-guess myself. Sometimes I wish I took the easy way and stuck with psychology, but I knew I wouldn’t enjoy my future in that %eld.”
With just one more year of undergraduate before pharmacy school, King has realized that the best way to discover your passion is with hands-on experience. Last summer, King worked as a pharmacy technician in her local CVS Pharmacy.
“I was able to %ll prescriptions, interact
with customers, handle insurance issues and shadow pharmacists. I liked this experience for the most part, and I discovered that I really love %lling prescriptions and learning about di$erent medications,” said King. “It assured me that pharmacy was the career %eld I wanted to go into.” .
While it’s normal to have uncertainty regarding the future, it’s essential to plan ahead if you’re planning to pursue a career in healthcare. For King, this means taking a gap year a er her graduation in the spring of 2026 to apply to pharmacy school and participate in an internship or research position.
As King continues her studies, she said she advises others to prioritize their mental health and take breaks, as pre-med can be very draining.
For senior nursing student Skylar McEvoy, the healthcare industry is a family a$air.
“I come from a long line of %rst responders: %re%ghters, EMS, police o&cers … and hearing all they have experienced working with trauma patients was my %rst glimpse into anything with medicine,” said McEvoy.
McEvoy’s closest connection comes from her triplet brother and sister, who are also studying to go into the medical %eld. McEvoy’s sister was born with albinism, leaving her vision impaired.
“Watching her [McEvoy’s sister] #ourish despite obstacles and people thinking she can’t do certain things has been inspiring. It has instilled in me that no matter if people have a disability or are in their lowest moments, they deserve the best care, “ said McEvoy.
UM’s nursing program, rated the number one private Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in Florida by the 2025 U.S. News and World Report, allows students to become eligible to take their NCLEX exam to become a registered nurse a er four years of school.
is di$ers from the standard timeline, which includes several years of nursing school on top of four years of undergraduate studies. With a 97.42% NCLEX passing rate, nursing students at UM become physically immersed in their %eld as part of their coursework, starting clinical rotations their junior year in di$erent local hospitals. ey also rotate departments to %nd what specialty suits them best.
“I have had a lot of experiences in clinical practice in various trauma, psychiatric, pediatrics, labor and delivery and ICU settings. I have loved every single one of my experiences,” said McEvoy. “I learn something new every day, and I have loved the process of discovering what specialty I want. I always thought I would be a pediatric nurse, but I have grown to love working with adults and in a trauma setting.”
Finding a balance between her studies and social life did not come easy for McEvoy initially, but she #ourished with time.
“Do not let nursing school control your life,” McEvoy said. “It is a piece of the journey to becoming a nurse, and you learn so much once you get into clinical practice. You are entering the most trusted profession, and that’s such a beautiful thing. But the best things take time and hard work.”
Another senior nursing major, Gianni Mantovani, is also interested in critical trauma care. Before nursing school, Mantovani served almost eight years in the U.S. Army as a Sta$ Sergeant, watching his fellow soldiers and friends saved by healthcare providers in a high-stress environment where life and death are seconds apart.
“ e constant has always been critical care nurses. ey were essential to help save lives, and I felt as though I needed to be a part of that. Being a veteran now allows me to bring those perspectives and experiences to this new world I’m joining,” said Mantovani.
When it came to actually working in the %eld, Mantovani realized that managing stress at any moment is helpful not only for oneself but also for everyone around, including patients.
“Trauma care can be ‘make or break’ for a lot of patients, and having people who can excel in high-stress environments is important. Patients are already stressed being in the hospital, and if they see that you’re comfortable and con%dent in what you’re doing, they’ll feel more at ease,” said Mantovani.
Just weeks away from graduating, Mantovani said he believes that %nding a support system in fellow nursing students is what helped him through the tough schoolwork. In his world, no nurse gets le behind.
“Help your fellow classmates,” said Mantovani. “It’s easy to focus on helping only yourself, but working now as a team and supporting each other will pay dividends in the future when working in a hospital.”
Whether you know someone studying to be in healthcare, are already working in healthcare, or are considering pursuing a career in healthcare, show these inspiring individuals an ounce of appreciation. eir e$orts might be saving the lives of loved ones.
As the summer season approaches, our graduates leave. Sadly after this spring semester we are losing a lot of our wonderful sta!. We don’t have the budget for some flashy fight scene with everyone or the print space to give everyone a page shoutout, but we collected our graduating seniors and finally let them be behind the camera for once. Give it up to the team that’s held this
Photo Director
Socials/PR
Co-Chair
Managing Editor
Going to the nightclub on a weeknight? Yes. Skipping an important class for a pitcher at The Rathskeller? Happily. While saying yes can be fun, saying it too much can lead to a lack of boundaries. This is your sign to change that and enter your villain era by setting healthy boundaries. Gone are the days of villains being masked and malicious — now, people can proudly enter their villain eras by reclaiming their power and becoming the hero of their stories. words_caleigh russo. illustration&design_joel wainberg
Education group since her %rst year. She recalled how her own mental health journey inspired her to join COPE, saying she wanted to do work that felt meaningful on campus and help tackle the stigmas surrounding mental health.
“A villain era is when somebody stops caring about what others think of them and focuses on what they want regardless of other people’s actions,” said Abby Casamassina, a junior double majoring in marine a$airs and biology.
“A lot of students resonate with the idea of reclaiming themselves through their villain era and prioritizing their energy, peace and happiness,” said Lavin.
Sophia Friedenberg, a senior majoring in psychology, described her villain era. For Friedenberg, a villain arc meant embarking on a vengeful post-breakup glow-up.
“What a villain era means to me is that you are basically wanting revenge and trying to show o$ and show that you’re doing well,” said Friedenberg.
While Friedenberg intended for her villain era to be a vengeful dish best served cold, her villainous cape wound up transforming her into her own hero.
or guilty doing so needs practice being comfortable with being uncomfortable,” said Lavin. “We can’t control how people respond or react to what we say; we can only do what’s best for us and communicate our needs clearly.”
Casamassina said that, especially during stressful times, a villain era is akin to a selfpreservation era.
“Growing up and in high school, if anybody asked me for anything, I’d always be like ‘sure, I’ll help you out’. But then I think you have to learn that you can’t help everybody do everything all the time, because you need to do things for yourself,” said Casamassina.
Lavin said that someone looking to enter their villain era should get in tune with themselves, paying attention to which activities make them feel recharged.
“Let’s say I love the way yoga and working out make me feel, but can’t do it every day. I’m gonna plan ahead and ask myself which days I think I’ll need a workout the most,” said Lavin.
Friedenberg said that an important step to entering her villain era was to stop comparing herself to others.
A villain era has no singular de%nition — how a villain era manifests itself depends on the person you ask. It can look di$erent from person-to-person, a conscious decision to prioritize yourself across di$erent aspects of your life.
“A villain era means that you’re being sel%sh in a good way because being sel%sh is not a negative thing,” said Emily Lavin, who is a junior majoring in biochemistry and nutrition. “Sel%sh can be a positive thing; it just depends on how you attach meaning to it.”
Lavin has worked with the University of Miami’s Counseling Outreach Peer
“So my villain era was that I had a glow up … I kind of learned that I shouldn’t base everything on spite, but it was a good motivator to get me to where I wanted to be,” said Friedenberg. “I had a healing era where I was %nally doing things more for myself, which was refreshing and relaxing.”
So, a villain era means doing things for yourself rather than against others. at said, what are some ways you can put this into practice?
O entimes, it can feel sel%sh to decline invitations or set boundaries for your own well-being. However, part of entering your villain era means conquering the feeling that you’re a bad person just because you aren’t bending over backwards for others.
“Someone who wants to start setting boundaries with people but feels awkward
“I used to be a major comparer. I would be like ‘oh this person’s life is great, I have to be just like them,’ until I realized my life is my own destiny,” said Friedenberg. “Once you stop comparing yourself to other people, you realize how happy you are.”
In the same vein, Lavin said she believes social media is a highlight reel and doesn’t show how people are feeling or what they’re going through.
ere’s no single blueprint for entering your villain era — some take the dramatic cape route, others just ghost a few group chats. But one thing’s always consistent: prioritizing your own well-being. Remember, stepping into your villain era doesn’t make you the bad guy — it just means you’ve %nally taken the lead role in your own origin story.
This section is your sanctuary to refuel your body and mind. We’re breaking down the science behind sleeping in skimpy outfts. Navigate the chaos of the UM gym with a satirical map that’ll save you from awkward encounters and wrong turns. And fnd the perfect lip balm to survive Miami’s sun, sweat and salty air.
photo&design_valentina gomez.
There are a few things you should never leave home without — wallet, keys and a good lip balm. Maybe subtract the wallet and keys. Afterall, sometimes a moisturized lip is all you need. Lip balms have always been around, but the sheer amount of di!erent ones on the market now can make it feel impossible to choose. Here is a guide to having the juiciest lips, and at what cost.
words_ lucy carlson-pietraszek. photo_valeria barbaglio. design_charlotte deangelis.
With lip balms, glosses, tints and serums popping up on the market every day, the selection can get overwhelming. However, there’s a few fan favorites that stick out from the rest.
“Lip balms I use now are Laneige; I mean classic, it is the best. I use Summer Fridays, obviously, and Naked Sundays lip oil and Glossia and Rhode are good too,” said Ellen Haghighi, a public health and psychology major.
“I use Aquaphor, Rhode, Summer Fridays, Fenty, Charlotte Tilbury and Refy,” said junior Claire Keebaugh.
e lip balm market has taken new #avors, formulas and colors to a whole new level.
Senior Bella Carlzon said that she prefers #avored balms, specifying that she currently uses Laneige’s gummy bear #avor.
“I prefer un#avored but don’t mind mint or vanilla. I don’t like the super sweet ones,” said Carlzon.
No one enjoys dry, chapped lips. ere are several common causes to this unfortunate state. Environmental factors, like cold weather, wind and sun exposure, can all damage delicate lip skin.
e sun’s UV rays can also cause irritation, peeling or even sunburn. To protect your pout, dermatologists recommend lip balm with SPF 30 or higher.
Look for ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to shield against sun damage. Everyday habits can also contribute to dryness. Licking your lips, smoking or not drinking enough water are all sneaky culprits.
Once spring has sprung, a surge of warm pastel colors occupy the fashion and beauty landscape. A light lavender or baby pink can be a so yet bold look for this upcoming trend.
Lip tints are also making a major comeback. ese stains stick around through meals and social events. e classic Benetint has paved the way for brands like e.l.f. and Milk to jump on. One product making waves on TikTok is Sacheu’s Peel O$ Lip Liner STAY-N — a liquid stain that dries in minutes and peels o$ to reveal long-lasting color.
Speaking of TikTok, celebrities use this app amongst other social media platforms to in#uence people to buy certain products.
Keebaugh said she has bought lip products because of celebrity endorsements or social media trends.
“I bought Rhode because of celebrities. I also get in#uenced from TikToks,” said Keebaugh.
Ingredients can be an important part of why people pick a certain lip product, or even just an added consideration.
“I don’t look for ingredients,” said
Haghighi. “I will buy it again if it moisturizes my lips and lasts long. And it’s cute looking. I’m gonna buy that shit again.”
Not reading ingredients tends to be common. As Keebaugh said, “I don’t look for anything speci%c in balms or glosses, but don’t like when they have #avors. So [I] look for unscented.”
Some companies are taking a healthier approach to the lip balm trend. By infusing lip and skin care into their formulas to create a two-in-one: look-good and feel-good sensation. Products like Hailey Bieber’s Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment contains the following great ingredients: shea butter with vitamins E, D and A, a peptide that reduces %ne lines, cupuacu which improves skin elasticity, and babassu which produces natural lauric acid.
Whether it’s a gloss, balm, oil or tint, there are hundreds of options. Finding the right combination of ingredients, moisture and #avor can help create the perfect product for you. Use these tips to shop smart and keep your lips looking and feeling their best.
Stairmasters & Treadmills
Calling all cardio bunnies — this is your mecca, your runway. is sacred strip of cardio equipment is about the sweat just as much as the slay. It’s full of avid “12-3-30” incline walkers and Haily Fernandes stair steppers, peering over their machines to judge the rest of the gym. Truthfully, this zone is for students aiming to blow away in the wind — they are aspiring to be specs of dust.
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Employees Getting Minimum Wage to Play Games
Dressed in upcycled, green uniforms, these student employees are here to make sure no one dies — and that’s about it. You’ll %nd them half-heartedly re-racking weights, sneakily completing their anatomy homework, chatting with regulars or deeply immersed in streaming sports.
Pec-Deck Machines
Here is where gym bros become prima donnas: the throne room of chest day. ey pu$ their chests, #ex between every set and admire themselves like Greek statues — if Greek statues wore stringers and dry pre-workout. eir form? Impeccable. eir drama? Unmatched. Approach only if you’re ready to be ignored in favor of their pecs.
The Safezone Machines From the `70s in the Corner
Tucked beside the cardio machines, this wasteland of almostretired machines is an oasis for shy gym goers who have their tetanus shots. ese charming relics were created when your dad was rocking jorts and a mullet, . But that’s the magic: no lines, no egos and no chance of accidentally locking eyes with a Tinder match from across the gym.
The Smith Machine That’s Never Free
Known for its vast versatility, the Smith whispers to everyone, building muscle like a cruel tease. It sits eternally in use, as if cursed by the gym gods themselves. Every time you glance over, someone’s benching, pressing, thrusting or texting. Bring a sleeping bag, a snack and your will to wait, or simply accept that the Smith Machine is more false-hope than reality.
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Hip Thrust and Back Extension
is is the birthplace of the dump truck. e forge of the peach. Where DFYNE Impact Shorts run wild and free. Here, you can spot some of the most biologically-impossible booties, composed of hip thrusts, protein shakes, leg days and Latina genetics. Fair warning: accidental eye contact during a hip thrust is a legally binding soul contract.
Center Cable Console
Dropped in the center of the gym, passing through this large cable setup is like attending a jam-packed pool party on a Saturday — sweaty, overstimulating and full of frat bros with water jugs. All the cables taken? Don’t fret. Join the uno&cial waitlist by hovering around the area, ready to pounce the second a cable frees up.
Small Dumbbell Section
Here lies the land of rejected dumbbells. Whether you’re a newbie trying to “tone” or a seasoned pro dodging the real weights, this is the place for low-e$ort reps and high-e$ort rest. Either that, or you’re just killing time until a machine opens up.
Welcome to the wild west of the gym. e racks are where chaos reigns and rules are mere suggestions. Whether it’s squats, pull-ups or questionable attempts at benching, this is the spot for anyone with zero regard for personal space or gym etiquette. It’s a free-for-all, where you’ll witness everything from Olympic powerli ing to the elderly doing bicep curls.
Dumbbells & Benches by the Mirrors
is is where the gym’s %nest come to li heavy and #ex harder. e weights are no joke, but neither are the poses. Here, you’ll %nd people pushing serious weight while simultaneously ensuring their form looks #awless from every angle. It’s all about balance: deadli s and delts, squats and sel%es.
Seating Area
Is your kitchen full of fast-food leftovers and frozen Trader Joe’s meals? You’re not alone — but are vitamins the fix? With influencers pushing supplements left and right, it’s hard to tell what’s worth your money. Some pills might help, but others are words, photo&design_lizzie kristal. 1 2 3 4
Wellness Center Entrance
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Everyone has their own sleep preferences curating the perfect slumber. One practice that deserves more attention involves stripping things back — literally. Sleeping in the nude can feel liberating and comes with a variety of health benefits worth noting. So, the next time you’re winding down for some much-needed shuteye, consider swapping that oversized T-shirt or baggy muumuu for your birthday suit.
words_remi turner. photo_valentina gomez. design_sal puma.
Body temperature is key to falling asleep comfortably. It’s part of your body’s biological clock; when cooled down, your circadian rhythm tells your body it’s time to fall asleep. Your body temperature naturally cools down when preparing for sleep, but forgoing your pjs can assist in lowering your core body temperature.
Remaining at a cool body temperature throughout the night increases the chances of remaining in a deep sleep. When in a deep sleep, your brain clears itself of toxic proteins, proving to have health costs later in life.
Room temperature is also an important factor in achieving a healthy sleep session. If your sleep environment is too hot or cold, you risk getting a disrupted R.E.M cycle, and not the Ariana Grande version with whistle notes and strategic “yuhs.” Deep sleep is vital for getting the full bene%ts of rest.
Who says you can’t feel your best self when climbing into bed? In fact, sleeping naked is a great way to get in touch with your body and boost con%dence.
e more time you spend naked, the more comfortable you will become with your body’s appearance.
Spending more time nude is associated with increased body image satisfaction, according to several studies. You can rack up those extra hours of self-love time by snoozing with nothing on.
If you’re a fan of avoiding yeast infections — which presumably most are — sleeping naked is a great way to increase vaginal health. Tight jammies or sweaty undies can increase risk of vaginal yeast infections. Sleeping naked is a simple solution to airing it all out.
Wearing tight %tting underwear can also be linked to low sperm count. Taking it all o$ before bed is a quick %x for keeping testicles cool and creating the optimal temperature for sperm health.
Avoiding clothing while sleeping can also allow your skin to take a breather. Certain fabrics made of synthetic %bers can activate acne, eczema or other skin conditions. Sleeping naked can minimize the risks of itching or unwanted skin condition #are ups.
If you’ve got a pillow talk partner cuddled on the other side of the bed, consider stripping before lights-out. Skin-to-skin contact between adults stimulates the release of oxytocin, which plays an important role in building attachment between partners. is feel-good hormone promotes relaxation, bonding and intimacy.
Oxycontin also aids in sexual arousal and pleasure. erefore, sleeping naked could contribute to a healthy sex life — a bonus for sustaining long-term relationships. In an anonymous survey completed by 18-22 yearold college students, one respondent wrote,
“I sleep naked more o en when I’m with my partner. It makes me feel more comfortable and closer to them.”
Safety and comfortability are the top priorities to exploring a skimpy slumber sesh. You should have a private space where you feel comfortable disrobing. If a sleeping buddy is involved, make sure your plan to take it all o$ is consensual. And remember: consent is FRIES —freely-given, reversible, informed, enthusiastic and speci%c.
Bedding matters. Invest in quality sheets, like that Anthropologie duvet you’ve had in your cart for months. e key is to wash your sheets, comforter, blankets and any emotional support stu$ed animals regularly. Wash or change your bedding every two weeks, or more, if you have skin concerns.
e right temp also matters. e bene%ts of sleeping naked are closely linked with keeping cool, Experts recommend an optimal sleep temperature between 66 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Sleeping naked might not always be intentional, like those nights where we mysteriously wake up with the covers in a massive ball at the end of the bed and an article of clothing on the ground. If this is a common occurrence, maybe it’s a sign your body would bene%t from purposely going to bed with less on.
If you’re not ready to take it all o$, that’s okay. Start small and try stripping o$ one layer at a time. Sleeping in a loose pair of underwear can also o$er similar bene%ts to sleeping fully nude. As with many routines, personal comfort should be the priority.
In a survey focused on 18-22-yearold college students, 89.5% answered that they have slept naked before. Out of those respondents, 63.2% indicated that they only sleep naked occasionally, while 15.8% indicated every night. e other 30% of respondents was an even split, stating they either sleep naked 1-2 or 2-3 times a week.
When asked why they prefer to sleep naked, 50% of respondents indicated it was due to body temperature and comfort.
One speci%c response stated, “practicing sleeping naked more o en helps to make it more comfortable. Also, making your bed and layering up with covers makes it easier.”
Another response stated, “ e quality of my sheets is important, and following my skincare routine every night before bed helps to transition.”
Fashion is showcasing the best in style, perfect for those looking to make a statement. We’re spotlighting funky belts that do way more than just hold up your pants. Break down color matching with tips that’ll have you dressing like a pro. And channel your inner villain in a photoshoot that proves being bad never looked so good.
photo&design_valentina gomez.
applaud your commitment to a baggy look, gravity remains undefeated. At some point, you will have to accept the truth: it’s time to invest in a belt. Don’t fret, because belts can easily take any outfit from sag to chic. We’re not talking about a plain, black strip of leather — we’re talking about belts that will do more than just hold up your jeans. And lucky for you, a world of belts that are loud, proud and funky are making a comeback.
At Paris Fashion Week, Dua Lipa was spotted wearing a pearl and chain belt with charms over her black dress, putting an elegant twist on the funky belt trend. Zendaya, tending to be ahead of the curve, has rocked multiple waist-cinching belts on the red carpet. Even Harry Styles has brought out his fair share of cowboy buckles and Y2K-style belts during his Love on Tour shows.
On the casual side, celebrities like Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner have been spotted making low-rise denim and bold belts the centerpieces of their o$-duty style. Whether it’s a chain belt worn low on the hips or a thick, leather strap cinching a blazer, funky belts are o&cially wardrobe essentials.
“Funky belts are de%nitely back in fashion, and I don’t see them going away anytime soon,” said Julia Hecht, a senior at the University of Miami who serves as Distraction Magazine’s What e Fork section editor.. “I thri ed a kind of chunky western-looking one that I wore with a lot of my out%ts in Nashville this year, and I feel like it really elevated the look.”
While belts are mainly there to hold up your favorite pair of jeans, sometimes they don’t have to serve a functional purpose; they’re just there to serve. And that’s the beauty of the belt revival: it’s not about subtlety. In a recent sea of minimalist, monochrome and “quiet luxury,” belts are once again becoming an accessory that dares you to be di$erent. Whether looped through some pant loops, slung low on the hips or cinching in a #owy dress, a statement belt brings something new to the table.
“In my opinion, a belt is the best way to switch up an out%t,” said Kelsey Greer, a %rst-year in the Business School. “It doesn’t even have to actually hold up your bottoms — it just adds a pop of color or shimmer to a boring out%t.”
“You can wear a plain black romper or dress and then add a statement belt,” said Catarina Whitaker, a senior in the School of Communication. “ en boom — a whole new out%t on top of a boring item of clothing.”
In today’s world of belts, we are seeing studded, sparkly, patent, metallic,denim-ondenim and more. is is especially true in an era where individuality and expression are driving people’s fashion choices. e rise of thri ing culture and sustainable fashion has pushed people to get more creative with their style, and belts are a low-cost and lowcommitment way to stand out.
e trend is also heavily in#uenced by the resurgence of the Y2K phenomenon. Belt trends from the early 2000s are making a splash on social media platforms like TikTok and in everyday streetwear. If you don’t feel like digging through a thri store, try digging
through your mom’s closet, because vintage is in, and the funkier, the better.
“I feel like statement belts really set apart my out%ts — honestly, all of my chunky and bold belts were my mom’s back in the day,” says Olivia Van Boche, a senior in the Business School. “I always love stealing them from her and matching them with my tops or colors of my %ts for the day or night.”
If you’ve been looking at your out%t in the mirror and feeling like something is missing, chances are a belt might be the missing piece. ere’s something nostalgic and even rebellious about bringing back these loud and chunky accessories. e possibilities are endless, and the “funk” of it all is very much intentional. ese belts aren’t meant to be
hiding beneath your top; they’re becoming the focal point, and they’re taking center stage.
“Anyone can throw on a pair of jeans,” said Juliana Warnock, a junior in the School of Communication. “But I love adding a chunky belt to amp up the look. I usually go with a chunky buckle, it makes a common out%t look more unique.”
So maybe in this instance, less is not, in fact, more. Sometimes, the bolder you go, the better. Fashion cycles always come full circle, and right now, bold belts are taking the spotlight once again.
Belts are proving to be a timeless form of self-expression, and anyone can hop on the trend. So it’s time to buckle up.
You’re standing in front of a mirror with swatches of fabric fanned out across your chest. You tilt your head, squint, and suddenly—there it is. One color lights up your face, while another drains it completely. It’s not magic, it’s undertone science. Depending on your features some colors scientifically look better on you than others.
This doesn’t mean you have to stop wearing some of your favorite hues all together, but if you’re wardrobe needs a shake up, you should try swatching. words_kai yates. illustration&design_lizzie kristal.
When it comes to putting together an out%t, many of us focus on what’s trending, what %ts well or what feels the most comfortable.
at would describe Dustin DiSisto, a senior %nance major who selects his out%ts “based on mood or whatever’s clean.”
But one major factor that o en gets overlooked is color, speci%cally how it interacts with your natural features. Wearing the right colors can bring out the brightness in your skin, highlight your eyes, and make your overall appearance more vibrant and balanced. On the other hand, wearing the wrong shades might wash you out, make your skin look dull, or clash with your hair and eyes.
Getting color right is emerging as a game changer when it comes to 21st century fashion trends. YouTube and TikTok o$er many videos with advice and guidance ranging from color theory to professional color analyses.
Even still, color considerations are not always priorities for some students.
“I just wear black,” said senior computer science major Armaan Pandher. “Sometimes red or white if I’m feeling bold, but mostly I like to keep it simple.”
DiSisto agrees. “I never really think, ‘Does this color look good on me?’”
For his part, DiSisto said he is open to leveling up his color game… “because sometimes I look a little pale in certain shirts,” he conceded
So how do you know which colors work best for you?
According to scores of websites, blogs and social media sources, the answer lies in understanding the basics of the color wheel, knowing your undertones and factoring in your hair and eye color.
e color wheel is a helpful tool that artists and designers have used for centuries, and students are discovering that it can be just as useful in selecting their wardrobe.
It’s a circular arrangement of colors that shows how primary colors (red, blue, yellow) combine to make secondary and tertiary shades. But more than just names of colors, the wheel helps you understand how colors relate to one another.
Some colors, such as blue and orange, are opposites on the wheel and are called complementary colors. When paired together, they create bold and highcontrast combinations. Other colors, such as green and blue or red and orange, are next to each other on the wheel. ese are called analogous colors and tend to blend harmoniously, o$ering a more subtle and coordinated look.
A third combination, known as triadic, includes three colors that are evenly spaced around the wheel, such as red, yellow and blue. Triadic schemes are playful, balanced and energetic. Understanding these relationships can help you design out%ts that are visually appealing, whether you’re matching separates or adding pops of color through accessories.
Knowing the theory is helpful, but your personal features, especially your skin tone play the biggest role in determining which shades look best on you. One of the %rst steps is identifying your skin’s undertone. Skin tone refers to the surface color of your skin, but undertone refers to the subtle hues underneath it.
People generally fall into three categories: warm, cool or neutral undertones. If your skin has hints of gold, peach or yellow, you likely have warm undertones.
If it has pink, red, or blue hues, you’re cool-toned. And if your skin seems to have a mix of both, you probably have neutral undertones.
Some people use the vein test looking at the veins on their wrist. If they appear blue or purple, that usually signals cool undertones; greenish veins o en mean warm; if it’s hard to tell, you’re likely neutral.
Others use the jewelry test: People with cool undertones tend to look better in silver, while gold #atters those with warm tones. Another quick check is how your skin reacts to the sun cool undertones usually burn more easily, while warm-toned people tan more readily.
Once you’ve identi%ed your undertone, you can begin to choose colors that enhance your natural glow. Warm undertones typically look great in earthy colors like mustard, olive green, rust and warm reds. Cool undertones shine in jewel tones such as sapphire blue, emerald green, icy lavender and charcoal gray. If you’re lucky enough to have neutral undertones, you can wear both warm and cool colors, giving you more #exibility.
Junior political science major Sophie Esposito said she pays attention to undertones.
“I used to wear whatever, but a er I %gured out I had cool undertones, I stopped wearing a lot of yellow,” Esposito said. “It made me look tired. Now I wear more lavender and navy, and I get way more compliments.”
But undertone isn’t everything. Hair and eye color also play a role in selecting #attering shades. People with blond hair o en are suited for so pastels, baby blues and light purples, while brunettes usually pop in deep greens, rich burgundy, and navy.
Redheads can enhance their unique coloring with warm browns, peach, and olive green. ose with black hair can pull o$ bold colors like royal blue, crimson, and even metallics.
Eye color is another great guide. Blue eyes stand out when paired with coppers or warm orange tones. Green and hazel eyes look brighter next to purples and earthy browns. Brown eyes are the most versatile and tend to go well with nearly every color, but they especially pop against teals, golds and vibrant greens.
Is your skin tone cool or warm?
Light and dark hair
Are your eyes light or dark?
Light, dark and red hair
Are your eyes light or dark?
Being a bright #ashy person who’s caught up with every trend isn’t for everybody. Sometimes you still want to turn head but in a way that’s a little more.. sinister. Embrace your inner villain and delve into the dark side. It’s time to break some necks.
Villains don’t just wear capes. They wear leather, dagger-shaped pendants, and tailored blazers. They’re no longer just movie characters, they’ve become fashion’s new icons and people are dressing the part. Villain style is high-fashion with an edge. It’s defined by sharp tailoring, sleek silhouettes, high-neck dramatic cuts, dark colors and unique accessories. In villain fashion, clothing isn’t an aesthetic it’s an identity. words_sara johnson. photo_valeria barbaglio & julia campbell. design_lizzie kristal.
To achieve this look there must be a fusion of presence and precision. It’s not just the silhouette sharpness, it also includes a having a commanding presence. Slicked-back hair and rich tones (black, burgundy, steel), create looks that are deliberately eye-catching. Villain fashion doesn’t whisper, it commands a room, and lately fashion has been listening.
Fashion’s favorite antihero isn’t just ctional, they’re front row and in Prada’s case, on the runway.
At their 2012 Milan Men’s Fashion Week show, Prada cast real-life villains: Adrien Brody, Willem Dafoe, and Tim Roth. It wasn’t just shock value, it was storytelling. Prada used fashion the way a director uses costume, signaling identity before a word is spoken. Each look felt like it belonged to a character with layers of secrets and schemes.
Prada’s broaches, double-breasted blazers and slick back hair characterized the powerful prowess at rst glance. is was the art of dressing like a villain: clothing as performance and power.
Rick Owens has long embodied this aesthetic with sleek silhouettes, elongated lines, and a dominating palette of blacks, grays, and whites. His platform ‘Kiss’ boots, combat ‘Hollywood Megalaced Mega’ boots adorned with multiple laces, and thick-sole sneakers look like they’re made for stomping across a dystopian cityscape. His architectural, almost sculptural, designs give an alienness to his clothing that distorts and elevates the body like a villain in control of their own evolution.
is carries out down to the attitudes of his models. Owens’ models rarely smile as they stomp down on the runway. In his Paris SS25 show where models appeared as if they just emerged from the sands of Dune with heads painted white, alien-like makeup draped in sand-colored fabrics. en came Paris FW25 show where models walked in extravagant phoenix-like feathered-out platform boots and serpentine silhouettes.
From the untrained eye one would not be sure if models were dressed to play a villans in a feature lm or walk the runway for a ready-to-wear collection. A catalog of looks modern Frankenstein or Severus Snape, Owens doesn’t just design clothes he creates villain multiverses on the runway.
Balenciaga plays into dystopian dominance with grandoise shoulders and silhouettes that feel designed for a di erent planet. Balenciaga’s SS25 show opened with a massive fur coat, reminiscent of Cruella de Vil. Some looks didn’t just reference villainy, they embodied it. Straight-faced models wore blackout visors that were less eyewear and more like armor. Echoing Venom’s with sleek and inhuman menacingly power, these shield lenses erased the eyes, the most human feature, and replace them with robotic darkness.
We’ve seen this direction from Balenciaga before. In FW24, spiked leather jackets and shoulder-heavy tailoring, distort the body, feeling more creature than clothing.
In Balenciaga, even discomfort becomes part of the design – garments that protect the wearer by making them untouchable. As GQ put it, for Balenciaga “protection and discomfort are o en two sides of the same coin”. e cape-like paneling, armored shoulders, and precision tailoring don’t just look good, they
Alexander McQueen is fashion’s haunting gothic romantic villain. SS25 brought Dracula and Black Swan to the runway. High necks and beautiful black lace gowns saturated their 2025 collections. Gowns of thorn-embroidered mesh, feathered skirts, and heels that looked like a swan mid-transformation bled elegance and villainy into even delicate pieces. McQueen’s Black Swan trades ballet slippers for feathered open-toed heels and leotard for liquid-black gowns. eir FW25 show sported a white fur coat with thin scattered black dots of fur, almost exactly alike that of villain Cruela De Vil, showing Mcqueen is not afraid to make the villain enchantingly gorgeous.
Chrome Hearts, on the other hand, gives us the rockstar edge with dagger pendants, silver stacks of chains and dark leather. Chrome Hearts %irts with the role of villain at a streetwear level. Its silver dagger rings, “F*ck You” engravings, leather pants, sterling silver belts, and cross-motif shirts invite even casual dressers to tap into their darker side. e brand has long been worn by rockstars like Guns N’ Roses, but its villain evolution was solidi ed when Bella Hadid wore custom Chrome Hearts to the 2018 Met Gala: a sculpted latex corset, a cathedral-length veil and leather padded shoulders adorned with a cross motif. It’s not just the runway, stage, or red carpets, at University of Miami Chrome Hearts makes its way into campus and the club. Chrome Hearts adds edge to even everyday looks through zip-ups with dagger hardware and layered silver chains over black tees. e numbers don’t lie, villain fashion is o cially here.
According to Data But Make It Fashion, villain-inspired looks dominated London Fashion Week 2025. Padded shoulders appeared in 44% of runway looks, sheer dresses made up 33% of Dilara Findikogu’s collection, and deep burgandies trending among multiple fashion houses.
Balenciaga’s popularity has risen year a er year, cementing its role as the fashion house of future villains. And with ‘Quiet Luxury’ dropped 25% in online popularity the month coming into 2025, fashion is ready for villain to take center stage.
Why are we so drawn to the dark? e villain aesthetic speaks to control, rebellion, and unapologetic presence, a rejection of being palatable or pretty. It’s style as self-possession.
Balenciaga’s Creative Director Demna Gvasalia believes “we create relationships between body and fabric, the way we make shoulder lines and armholes, the way clothes have an ability to change us,” wrote Demna in show notes at a Balenciaga show.
Clothes have the ability to mold the way people view us and how we view ourselves. It is an unspoken identity. ere is a power in harnessing the rights to rewrite the narrative of how were viewed.
Academic Journal,Anchoring the (postmodern) self?: Body modi cation, fashion and identity. In Fashion eory written by Paul Sweetman, refers to fashion as “A re%ection – in imposing an exterior demeanor, clothes are semiotic devices, machines for communicating.” (2017) ere is a symbiotic relationship in how clothes change us and we utilize them as devices of communication. ey change us and continue to become re%ections of this ever-changing self. People are drawn to dark fashion because it gives them unspeakable creditability and identity. It tells who a person is without a single word. It is a mode of communication of value and character. It’s refreshing and inspiring to change your avatar everyday.
So maybe you’re not plotting a hostile takeover or running a criminal empire. But you can still walk like you could. Villain fashion isn’t about being bad, it’s about being bold. It’s about knowing what you want, dressing for power, and refusing to back down to taking up space and receiving stares.
Because in a world obsessed with likability, there’s something revolutionary about dressing like the one who doesn’t care what you think. Whether you nd your weapon in a Chrome Hearts ring, a Rick Owens boot, or a perfectly tailored Prada coat — the most important thing is how you wear it.
Villain fashion isn’t reserved for the runway. Whether it’s a dagger ring or your go-to black boots, it’s about owning the moment. And making it yours.
If you want to keep you foot on everyone’s necks, you have to have the right boots for it. Whether they’re chunky stompers, sleek leather knee-highs, or even a reliable pair of Doc Martins. Nothing says villain quite like a sole as dark as your soul.
like weapons.
Dripping in black lace, rich reds, and white fur. High necklines, sheer silhouettes, and Victorian accessories. She’s Dracula’s muse or Jennifer’s Body in designer heels.
Invest in structure— shoulders that cut and suiting that %ts like armor. Dark palettes. A belt and a striking watch are non-negotiables.
Villain fashion isn’t about being bad, it’s about being bold. About knowing what you want, dressing for power, and refusing to apologize for taking up space and be di$erent.
Stick to monochrome tones. Add a strong pair of boots and sunglasses that say, “Don’t approach.” One statement coat or necklace can carry the whole look.
put on more events than I’ve ever seen in Distractions name, but you were also able to build a wonderful team to help.
Amanda Mohamad, the girl whose job I probably should have instead of this. Despite being the Comp Sci major, I had no worries that our website was in good hands under your leadership. You helped get new writers onto digital so they could learn how to write for us, and then pester me relentlessly when I would forget to edit their articles. Even though the magical font changes are still a mystery your work on the website has earned us many awards, and I thank you for your
Stano, my beloved advisor. I know the only times we would talk would be at a er you picked apart every page in the magazine, but I thank you for your guidance. Even though I was prone at some of your changes, I know you were right, because you taught me so. I owe my eye for design to you and for your critiques on our work. I hope to carry that progress into the future, who knows, maybe my work will be on your next design
Last but not least, by shining Lizzie I want to thank you for entrusting this magazine to me a er your time as EIC. I was weary to take on such a dence in me that , and I started to feel it. You truly helped me become who I am in this publication. Imparting your wisdom to me while I shadowed under you as Executive Editor, and still by my side while I’m EIC. I’ll miss our deadline feasts and karaoke concerts. Every time I see a White Monster ection.
While my time is up, I leave you guys in good hands. Jay Moyer, the EIC a er me is an amazing person. I wouldn’t have recommended he apply for the position if I didn’t think he’d do a good job. I love you all, thank you for reading and thank you to my for helping. Miss you already.
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