Flair Magazine Issue No.9 - The Nostalgia Issue

UNCW’s Fashion and Culture Magazine

Table of Contents

Page 3: CLASS PHOTO

Page 5: BOARD MEMBERS

Page 6: MEMBER CREDITS

Page 7: LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Page 8: BOYHOOD

Page 14: DOLLHOUSE

Page 18: TOYS

Page 19: REVISITING AMERICAN GIRL’S BOOK

Page 21: WHO

Page 27: FLAIR FLASHBACKS

Page 29: FORGIVENESS

Page 30: VIBRATIONAL MEDICINE

Page 31: GLORY DAYS

Page 37: ANTICIPATORY NOSTALGIA

Page 39: SEVEN YEARS WITH HER

PAGE 40: SAMMY

PAGE 41: NOSTALGIA

PAGE 51: CASUAL INSTAGRAM

PAGE 53: SPRING SALAD RECIPES

PAGE 54: CICADA

Page 55: prom

page 61: just a girl

Page 62: book recOMmendations

Page 63: suburban alien

Page 71: rebel renaIssANCe

Page 73: digital

Page 75: top places to skate in wilmington

Page 76: what is your aesThETic quiz

Page 77: doll feud

Page 83: saudade

Page 91: astrology

Page 93: flair’s playlist

Page 97: photoshoot credits

Aiden Bryceland

Conner Johnston

Emma Row

Gibson Huff

Grace Baeurle

Gwen Cogger

Hailey Hathaway

Hannah Snowdall

Isabella Haddon

Jessica Lojek

Julia Gamez

Julia Knowles

Julianna Broadway

Kathine Andrade

Katie Mac Filer

Katrine Luh

Katitin Capuano

Kelsey Drake

Leah Coale

Leah Long

Lila Rosser

Lily Hesse

Mahlia Hemby

Meghan Gregory

Meris Duprey

Mia Davis

Michael Ponce

Molly Patterson

Paige Kergarvat

Raegan Butts

Samantha Meszler

Sarah Higgins

Sheridan Taylor

Steph Grasmick

Taylor Woynec

Vanessa Taylor

A Letter From the Editor

Dear Readers,

Welcome to Issue No. 9, the Nostalgia Issue.

As I sit down to write this letter, I find myself grappling with a mix of emotions. On one hand, there’s a profound sense of gratitude for the incredible journey we’ve shared together through the pages of this magazine. On the other, there’s a tinge of sadness as I bid farewell to a role that has been more than just a job - it’s been a passion, privilege, and a defining chapter of my life.

I've had the honor of witnessing this magazine evolve and grow, navigating through the ever-changing landscape of media with resilience and creativity. Together, we've celebrated triumphs, weathered challenges, and embraced the power of art through fashion and culture.

I am immensely grateful to each and everyone one of you - our readers, contributors, collaborators, and colleagues - for your unwavering support, encouragement, and loyalty throughout this journey. Your enthusiasm for our magazine has been the driving force behind every issue, allowing us to continue to grow and thrive.

While I may be graduating, my love for storytelling and my commitment to the values that underpin this magazine will endure. I have no doubt that the future holds exciting opportunities and new adventures for both myself and for Flair the Magazine. Change is inevitable, but it's also an opportunity for growth, renewal, and fresh perspectives. My connection to this magazine and its community will always remain strong. I look forward to cheering from the sidelines as you all embark on the next chapter of this remarkable journey.

As I come to an end with this experience, I say goodbye to not have encountered, but I say goodbye to Flair in its entirety. my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you—for your passion, and your belief in the power of storytelling world. It's been an honor and a privilege to serve as your will carry the memories of this chapter with me always.

Biggest thanks for this opportunity, Maxwell Stafford

boyhood

Toys You Probably Grew Up With...

Members of Gen Z are lucky to have been born years prior to the imagination-deficient “iPad Kids.” Most of Gen Z grew up playing outside, with each other and with some iconic, well-loved toys. We were quite lucky to have not had a large, glossy screen shoved in our faces during our early formative years. Here are some of the top toys that may have been on your Christmas list between years 1997 and 2006.

2002

1997

The Tamagotchi

The Tamigotchi was a digital pet that conveniently thrived within a colorful, handheld keychain. You could find them attached to backpacks and belt loops. The whimsical pixel-art creatures originate from Japan but was released in the U.S. in 1997. Multiple updates and new versions were released in following years due to the toy’s great success around the world. Tamagotchis can still be purchased today (with wristband versions now available), but of course, they do not get the same hype as they did in the 90’s.

1998

Furby

`Some find them creepy, some find them absolutely adorable. Regardless, over 40 million were sold between 1998 and 2001. Furby is a colorful, owl-like robotic creature that speaks “Furbish.” This wildly successful, yet absolutely bizarre toy is somehow still on shelves today.

1999

Pokemon Trading Cards

2004

Playdough

This one requires no explanation. If you didn’t try to eat it, you are lying.

2003

Nintendo D.S.

Beyblades

Based on a traditional Japanese spinning top game, Beyblades provided a new angle appealing to both Japanese and American households, along with an accompanying TV series. The spinning top toys “battle” each other in the respective arena, and the Beyblade with the highest levels of balance, speed, attack, and stability are sure to win the battle.

In 2004, the first generation of the beloved D.S. would be released. D.S., standing for “Dual Screen,” would fall into the hands of millions of kids over the following decade. Whether you’re busy playing Cooking Mama, Super Mario World, or Nintendogs, the D.S. had hundreds of game chips that everyone could enjoy. Communication via Pictochat would become the new cool thing. Amongst the success of the D.S., Nintendo would release several later generations of the console, upgrading in technology and design as the years continued.

Pokemon cards were, and still are, cornerstone pieces that you could find scattered across school desks, shoved in lockers, and held tightly in clammy hands. Pokemon cards are timeless pieces that have undoubtedly transcended the test of time. Everyone had their favorite Pokemon; from Snorlax, to Eevee, to Pickachu. And of course, the anime show adds an additional component to the nostalgia of Pokemon.

2000

The Razor Scooter

Everyone can remember what the unbearable feeling that a thwack from a razor scooter to the ankle felt like. These minimalist scooters ruled neighborhood streets for a good decade in the early 2000’s.

2001

Bratz Dolls

The antithesis of beloved Barbie, Bratz Dolls exuded a sense of rebellion and sass, raved over by young girls. However, many parents complained about the risque nature of the heavily made-up faces, glossy lips, exposed midriffs, and rather adultish figures the dolls promoted, which would, of course, just madetheir daughters want them more.

2006

2005

Nerf Guns

Nerf Guns were originally released in 1989, but their popularity would soar throughout the early 2000’s. I can still remember finding the styrofoam bullets all around my house on Christmas morning, from my brother’s amateur sniping.

Littlest Pet Shop

Littlest Pet Shop friends would take the toy world by storm. They appeared in commercials, McDonald’s Happy Meal toys, and the shelves of Walmart. The iconic bobble headed animals, ranging from adorable dogs of various breeds to skunks, would be a collector’s item. You could even buy their accompanying playhouse, so all your bobblehead friends could hang out together.

Revisiting American Girl’s “The Care and Keeping of You”

A conversation about adolesence, puberty, growing up, and looking back.

Common in most homes of prepubescent girls in the mid-aughts was a copy of American Girl’s " e Care and Keeping of You" by Valorie Lee Schaefer. “ e Book” (as I will be referring to it from here on out) was like a secret club. I remember being nine years old when my friend, Lily, came over with her copy. She said, “I have something to show you,” and turned to the page that showed the development of breasts. We laughed at the possibility that we could one day have “stage 5 breasts.” “ ere’s more,” she said and turned to a spread called, “How to insert a tampon.” I was shocked that I was going to have to do something like this. I didn’t even know what a period was. Lily agreed to let me borrow e Book so that I could read the whole thing. My neighbors also had e Book. It was an “if you get it, you get it, and if you don’t you don’t” thing.

e original book was published in 1998, the same year that I was born, which means that it’s currently 25 years old. e cover features three cartoon girls fresh out of the shower wrapped in towels. e book was reissued in 2012 and split into two parts: part 1 was for girls aged 8-10, and part 2 was for girls aged 10 and up. It was reissued again in 2024 with new changes to the text, I’m sure.

e Book touches on everything aside from sex, which makes sense for a book from the American Girl brand. It opens with an introduction that encourages the reader to ask their loved ones the questions they may have as they read this book. As a kid, it's hard to hear this advice and even harder to take it, but looking back on it now, I’m touched by how sweet this book is. It encourages young girls to take care of themselves and build con dence not in their appearance, but in who they are and what their bodies can do. It then provides a head-to-toe analysis and commentary on the body and hygiene. ere are directions on how to brush your teeth, how to oss, how to wash your face, basic acne recommendations, and how to shave your armpits and legs (should you elect to do so). It reads like a children’s magazine. ere are even sections where young girls write to the author called “Body Talk”.

For the sake of nostalgia and my childhood, I opted to reread the original published in 1998. I wanted to go back and describe all the ways this book failed me and what I wished it had said. But rereading it, I found it harder to nd fault. Of course, there are things it could’ve done better, more diversity, more inclusion; but for a book that came out in 1998, it did a damn good job of being progressive and open.

e Book also touches on food and nutrition, and how to properly fuel and nourish our bodies which leads into a section on eating disorders. One critique of e Book is that it encourages young people to look a er their body but lacks guidance on how to care for the soul and spirit which is what’s needed to build con dence that isn’t based on self-perception. Yes, we need to take care of our physical bodies, but our mental health is just as important.

Would I give this book to my future daughter, little sister, or younger cousin, or someone close to me who is going through puberty? Yes, I would give them this book. But it’s important that we also consider how we can be more approachable for young people as they begin to navigate puberty and adolescence.

Written and designed by: Sara Byrnes

FLAIR FLASHBACKS

OLIVIA MILLER CLASS OF 2021

“Flair is such a special community I’m so hononred to have had a hand in creating. Lugging out loads of fruit, outfit changes, and an entire tablescape to the middle of Wrightsville Beach for the Ripe Issue cover shoot is a favorite memory of mine. This is when I first really felt like we were making art with other creatives in a previously untapped community, especially coming out of a rut after COVID. When I first saw the photos after development, I couldn’t wait for what Flair would become!”

“Getting connected with Flair brought me so many connections in the Wilmington creative community, as well as brought me friends for life. From the first-ever clothing swap, to the release parties, to making candles in Olivia’s kitchen, Flair was a special place for us to grow and create together. I’ll always cherish these memories and this magazine.”

ALANA CONSOL CLASS OF 2022

“Flair was one of the most impactful experiences of my college time. It gave me the opportunity to work on my photography, writing, and designing! One of my favorite memories was getting to shoot for the Ripe Issue <3”

“I hold all of the memories I made during my involvement with Flair near and dear to my heart. Many of the best moments, for me, were made when so many members came together to get ready for a photoshoot. Witnessing something we envisioned come to life and having tons of fun throughout the process was an atmosphere I’ll never forget!”

JORDAN MAYS CLASS OF 2021

TAYLOR PUCKETT CLASS OF 2023

Designed by Maxwell Stafford

An ode to the past and soon-to-be past members who played a role in the creation of each issue of Flair the Magazine.

“My favorite memories of flair are the staff photoshoot days! They were always amazing bonding experiences for the staff members & they were a great way to showcase our unique styles and personalities! I also loved having flair as my creative outlet throughout college and getting to meet so many people who had the same interests as me!!!”

BROOKE ZARZYCKI CLASS OF 2023

MARILYN BOLDERMAN CLASS OF 2023

“My favorite memories of being involved with Flair always came down to having that creative outlet outside of the classroom and the constant flow of ideas bouncing off of other creators. It was a beyond supportive atmosphere that further fostered my love for writing. I always looked forward to the staff shoots; they harbored feelings of pride in myself and my peers as we were on the final moment of wrapping up that season's edition!”

“Easily the best memories of my college experience have been with Flair. I have never been more grateful for an experience like this and I am so lucky to have been a part of such an amazing community of creatives. It’s hard to pick one significant memory, from modeling in the Ripe Issue to the rave party to being gifted the role of Editor-In-Chief, I cherish everything we have all done together. I LOVE FLAIR”

MAXWELL STAFFORD CLASS OF 2024

SAMMIE MULLER CLASS OF 2024

“My absolute favorite memories from Flair have been the events! Issue 8’s ‘Rave’ was definitely one of the best nights of the year, as I got to spend time with both our members and readers in an off-campus setting. The Issue 8 launch party was also incredible; we had an outstanding turnout, and I loved seeing how many people truly love and support our magazine! I cannot wait for our Issue 9 launch party at the end of this semester to celebrate all of our achievements, but I also cannot believe it will be my last event as a member. Flair has been one of the best things to happen to me during college, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to be on the board! “

Life is complex. There is no need to lack forgiveness for yourself. Every day has a new lens. The sun shines down with a fresh point of view each morning. More importantly, you are more than your past, your yesterday. You are an imperfect being. you are worth more than the constant resentment you may cause yourself to endure.

Listen. Like me, you may have a past that is full to the brim, heavy like a cloud about to pour. If you do, I can assure you that you are still holding yourself accountable for something your more naïve and inexperienced self may have done or not done.

I am still healing myself, and that process calls for so many trials and errors, slips, self-conflict, betrayal, and countless other devices. These are all normal and good. you cannot learn to go a different way in one night or one therapy session. you cannot sit with yourself one time and figure it all out, so treat yourself with the kindness and patience you would a child who is hurt because, deep down, that is who we all are.

A child knows no better. A child is simple in thinking. A child may have morale, but may also be unable to utilize it effectively. Forgive yourself for trying so hard, even if it was in the wrong way. I did this for so long. I am still learning how to forgive my sixteen-year-old self.

When I was sixteen, I found myself living within a bond fueled by old trauma. The cycle of tension building, followed by an explosive rush of adrenaline, became the definition of passion in my eyes. It felt like the most lively and wonderful love I had ever experienced. Yes, I was young, and yes, it was the first time I had ever fallen in love, but it was synthetic, like a drug. Real love now feels flawed. It feels unreal. It feels lonely sometimes and static. Safety is unnerving. Safety feels horrifying. There is a sense of consistency, and not in a cycle format, but in a simple, ongoing, linear sort of way. This feels like a tragic death because, like many of us, I have truly never experienced raw love.

Needless to say, the fear of safety and consistency is real. It all depends on your roots and your foundation. I am working to unwind it all. To relearn what love is supposed to be. to fall into the right habits. To learn how to feel good in a new cycle. It is the hardest battle I have fought thus far, and it may be the same for you.

I am no therapist, but I listen to mine. Your fight is valid. In all walks of life, trauma hurts and it stays. it inhibits all parts of your brain. it forms you. no matter how much you want to stray from it, let it not define you, as it will always be there, even if you succeed in those things.

Now, this is not necessarily a bad thing. It is just important to be able to accept that part of you and leave it in your filing cabinet. Instead of showcasing hatred towards your ways of life, turn it more into a sense of pride. That you are here now, and you see it. That’s the biggest part, the acknowledgment. It is uncomfortable, scary, and sometimes devastating. but that is your mark to go. Your sign to build yourself. to see the world in a new way; the same way this universe does every rising morning. Try again! It is so worth the work. You deserve a warm start. Welcome yourself in. You have already gotten so far.

Written by Stella Rimmer Designed by Raegan Butts

Vibrational Medication

By: Ginny Smith

It is important to recognize the inherently impermanent nature of all feelings and emotions, and the consequences that can come with letting these essentially neurochemical reactions and sensations determine your life.

Once we recognize that our feelings are not reality, we can reclaim a great deal of power. This is why implementing practices or activities into your life that can keep these negative emotions at bay, observing them versus internalizing them, can deeply increase one’s quality of life.

Cease to identify with the feeling, practice sitting with the feeling, and notice how it will eventually dissolve away, rather than immediately acting on the feeling, to avoid discomfort. Acting on negative emotions is allowing fear to rule your life. Feelings act as hints, not instructions.

This is an important lesson to learn, especially while healing.

Many of our feelings evoke from so many external sources, they do not even belong to us, or even originate from our own selves.

One way to kick start a healing process, or to expel some of the energy that is creating feelings that may not be long to you is through reiki energy healing. Removal of stagnant energy in the body can deeply heal emotional wounds.

Reiki emerged in the 1920’s in Japan based on spiritual aspirant and monk Mikao Usui. Reiki holds ties to buddhism, taoism, and shinto religions.

Reiki means “universal life force energy,” alluding to the notion that we are all holistically connected energetic beings. Reiki focuses on the manipulation of this energy in the body to allow it to flow freely throughout the seven chakras, the seven energetic centers in the body. If the life force energy is stuck or blocked in one these centers is when negative emotions, pain, or just general energetic negativity could arise.

Through both removal and facilitation of this energy, the body can naturally heal itself.

Reiki practitioners place their hands on the centers of each chakra and while the recipient is in a meditative state, the practitioners draw in positive energy to each chakra, while drawing out negative energies.

There is inconclusive evidence about the efficacy of reiki, but your personal belief system leaves reiki up to your own interpretation. What does life force energy mean to you?

Many people report decreased pain, improved sleep, a renewed spirit, and eased muscle tension, while others process trauma, experience epiphanies, and have deep, energetic releases, like feeling extreme joy or crying.

My personal experience with reiki was one that left me deeply inspired. Reiki brought light back into my eyes. I saw visions of red and green, colors that correlate with the root chakra and heart chakra, two places where my practitioner said I had blockages.

I felt that I had returned home to my body, making me glad to be back, but sad that I had been gone for so long. It’s easy to forget who you are, in seasons of growth, healing, and change, but Reiki is one way to recenter, refocus, and realign with our true purpose and selves.

e way we relate and view our lives through the lens of our emotions can determine much of our reality. It’s part of our human responsibility to make sure the lens is one of clarity and peace. Reiki can reinstate this sense of stability that is crucial for a beautiful life.

Anticipatory Nostalgia

�he� s�� ti�e �ies� �ut �hen �ou��e s�t in the �in�o� se�t enough ti�es� it �e�o�es in�re�singl� �pp�rent th�t nothing is �e�nt to l�st �ore�er. �o �ou re�e��er �our l�st re�ess� the l�st ti�e �our �o� h�� to �h�u�eur �ou �n� �our �rien�s to the ��ll� or the l�st ti�e running out the �oor to the �us stop �ith � st�le �ggo in h�n�� � �no� th�t these �o�ents �n� ��n� �ore �ere �ll �re�uent o��urren�es throughout �� �hil�hoo�� �ut � ne�er trul� �ne� �hen the l�st ti�e �oul� �e the l�st ti�e.

�l�er �n� �hope�ull�� �iser� � h��e �e�o�e �ore ���re o� the p�st �n� the spee� �t �hi�h it �ees. �o�eti�es� �e loo� �or��r� to �o�ing on �n� le��ing e�perien�es in the p�st� �ut in �o�ents �ull o� lo�e �n� �o�� the thought o� � �uture �ithout these ��n �ring on � �oo� o� �el�n�hol�.

Anticipatory Nostalgia

�n�ti��i�p��to�r� nos�t�l�gi� � noun.

�issing �h�t h�s not �et �een lost� �issing the present pre��turel� �e�ore it h�s �e�o�e past

�nti�ip�tor� nost�lgi� e�ists �hen one i��gines the present through the lens o� the �uture �n� �re�tes �on�i�t �et�een the ��tu�l present �n� this h�potheti��l �uture. �he �eeling is o�ten ���o�p�nie� �� �n o�er�hel�ing ��ount o� �n�iet�� s��ness� �n� re�inis�e. �e �re �et �ith �e�e�t �hen �e re�li�e our in��ilit� to �ree�e ti�e or �r�g �n e�perien�e on �or �s long �s �e �esire. �t ��n �e e�en �ore �rustr�ting �hen ���e� �ith the �e�r th�t �e �ill �orget the ��oo� ole ���s� or not h��e the �h�n�e to gi�e our proper goo���es. �he un�ortun�te truth is th�t so�eti�es �e �ill �orget� or so�e out�o��le�t�fiel� �ir�u�st�n�e �ill �or�e us to �o�e on �ui��er th�n �e e�pe�te�. �or these re�sons� �e �tte�pt to prep�re oursel�es �or the �uture �� h�per��o�using on it �e�ore �e e�en get there. �lso �no�n �s �uture trip-

Written By: Sophia Reese Page Design By: Meris Duprey

ping� �e �e�elop �nti�ip�tor� �n�iet� to��r� �h�t is to �o�e� there�ore ��pli��ing our per�eption th�t the present is slipping through our fingers.

�u��� �or �ou� �ust �s � �o�ent is ne�er per��nent� neither is � �eeling. �hen �nti�ip�tor� nost�lgi� t��es o�er� it ��n reson�te �eep �ithin us li�e ho�esi��ness. ��hen �ill � return ho�e�� soun�s li�e ��hen �ill this �eeling return�� �he un�no�n is s��r�. �h�nge is s��r��

�n� �et� �ou h��e �ontinue� to o�er�o�e it. �hile it is e�s� to �u�p to �orst���se s�en�rios� this ��uses us to o�erloo� �ll the positi�e out�o�es th�t ��n �o�e �ro� the un�no�n. �till� loo�ing �or��r� to the �uture �oesn�t �e�n th�t �e �ren�t going to �iss the p�st. �e get use� to �ho �e �re �n� our li�es �e�en the �un��ne p�rts�� so it is �o�pletel� nor��l th�t the thought o� �o�ing to the ne�t stop ��n �e �istressing. �et� �e �ere �orn to li�e through these e�er��h�nging se�sons o� li�e� le�rning �n� gro�ing � little �it �ore �ith e��h one.

�t is �orth noting th�t there is �e�ut� in this s��ness. �no�ing th�t � �o�ent �oesn�t l�st �ore�er ���es it �ll the �ore spe�i�l. �t �e�ns �eing ��le to so�� up e�er� l�st �rop o� �n e�perien�e �n� letting oursel�es s�i� in the �eelings it h�s engen�ere� �ithin us. �t ��n �e te�pting to �ist�n�e oursel�es �ro� the present �o�ent �s � �e�ns to prote�t our he�rts� �ut � en�our�ge �ou to le�n into the present �n� let �oursel� �iss �h�t �ill soon �e the p�st �e��use th�t is ho� �ou �no� �our li�e is �eing fille� �ith purpose�ul �o�ents �orth re�e��ering.

�t is he�lth� to �el�o�e �nti�ip�tor� nost�lgi�� �ut tr� not to ��ell in it. �� �ou fin� �oursel� getting lo��e� into this �eeling� here �re so�e ���s to s�it�h out �our lenses �n� return to the present�

1) Capture and Release: Take photos and write in journals, but don’t let it be a crutch that keeps you gripping onto the moment. It is absolutely ok to want to capture a memory but try to balance how often you do so, and practice letting a moment or memory go when it is time.

3) Mindfulness: Tuning into the present moment can help ease anxious feelings and bring your awareness to the joyfulness of a moment.

2) Find Gratitude: This may be easier in the pleasant moments, but even in the unpleasant situations, try to appreciate the good aspects and find value in the moment. Rather than focusing on the moment leaving, let yourself be grateful for the moment existing in the first place.

Take photos and write in journals, but don’t let it be a crutch that keeps you gripping onto the moment. It is absolutely ok to want to capture a memory but try to balance how often you do so, and practice letting a moment or memory go when it is time.

Tuning into the present moment can help ease anxious feelings and bring your

2) Find Gratitude: This may be easier in the pleasant moments, but even in the unpleasant situa tions, try to appreciate the good aspects and find value in the moment. Rather than focusing on the moment leaving, let yourself be grateful for the moment existing in the first place.

4) Stay Connected: Reach out to those from your past and present life. Maintaining relationships will help to preserve old memories and cultivate new one.

Reach out to those from your past and present life. Maintaining relationships will help to preserve old memories and cultivate new

Seven YearS With her

Even if the initial trickle of our companionship is blurry, there are certain things about us that I use to define myself.

There are things I will never forget or let go of. There was no introduction beyond learning names. We bloomed quickly, much quicker than any person I had ever tried to embrace before. My first sleepover was with her. She was my outlet and my muse. I love writing about her, because she is one of the most beautiful people I have ever loved.

She was my twin flame as an undecorated thirteen-yearold in school. We found each other, I do not even remember how. All I know is that we were in orchestra class. See. It started in orchestra class. We started our story in the most appropriate setting possible for her and I. I already love her. An itch for art calls for an immense threshold of love. I know that because I have felt it, and it started with her, my best friend from that day onward.

My orchestra teacher hated me. He thought I was insufferably annoying. On top of this, I was quite literally, as a thirteen-year-old, in love with our first chair cellist. As an older human being, slightly more educated on love now, I could not tell you why. Perhaps it was about his talent or his shared love of the strings. Maybe as a child, I fantasized about him serenading me outside my window with – not a guitar, but a cello. Maybe, for some reason, that thought pushed me into my infatuation. I was not too bad at playing the violin myself, so I tended to try my best to show off to him.

Written by Stella Rimmer Designed by Sarah Higgins

She was less of a die-hard string player, as I took my position way too seriously (I never picked up a violin again after I bloomed past the eighth grade), but she was my biggest fan on “Solo Wednesday.” I remember one Wednesday, I got up in front of the class to bow to the Pirates of the Caribbean theme song. While I was not able to catch a glimpse of our top cellist as I was intensely focused on my playing, I sat down after I was finished, next to her, who was so eager to tell me he was tapping his foot. When I tell you I was overcome with joy, I practically grew wings and flew away from my seat. She got me. She really got me.

Days upon weeks upon months upon years went by where there were love triangles and rumors and scary text messages from fellow undeveloped human beings around us in the institution, but she was always over my shoulder, following me through life. But the feeling was beautifully mutual. She had me too, and she knew that. We were a true duo. We raised each other. She taught me how to use a tampon. I was never alone in my beginning stages of facing grief and fear upon heartbreak and pain. The first times we ever fell apart we got to hold hands afterwards. She is not only my best friend, but a beautiful person. This woman is an elaborate piece of art with all forms of media. art that sings, songs that paint, and I love her.

Sammy,

I come back to the house sometimes and remember the days full of running around in the field out back.

Your copper hair swayed with the grass that danced in laughter, while making potions and small bouquets of buckwheat flowers.

A lot of years have passed. But even still, when I come back, all that is left now are the bugs and the broken front porch steps.

I don’t know if it will stay this way forever, waiting for the wind to rock you back to sleep. Each night bares the task of putting your madwoman’s mind at ease.

I can’t remember when you stopped noticing all of the beautiful things, and I wander around sometimes and wonder, why you’re never present in the journey but get so wrapped up in the ending.

It hurts to miss you, Sammy. and it hurts that I can’t even remember our goodbye. I like to take the long way home now, past all those open fields and think of you, pleading for the wind to whisper that it’ll be alright. I just hope it’ll be alright.

Sammy Meszler

Design: Sarah Cote

Written & Designed by Sammie Muller

It has been over a decade since I made an Instagram account. On the last day of summer camp–when everyone nally got their iPod touches back–we all rushed to make pro les and follow each other so that we could stay connected. roughout middle school, my Instagram account primarily consisted of memes, One Direction, blurry pictures of random objects, awkward sel es with the “Nashville” lter, or “like for TBH” posts. I must have posted at least ve photos a day, but I couldn’t give a care in the world.

As I began high school, however, Instagram swily transformed from a silly online photo album to a meticulously curated visual persona. Instagram was the means by which someone’s popularity transcended from your school to all schools in the vicinity. We modi ed our rst impressions of someone based on their online persona. It wasn’t enough to be attractive; you also had to be “artsy.” Instagram feeds that had a coherent theme and color coordination were o en the most followed. Users, myself included, worked tirelessly to maintain a certain “vibe.” I liked how my feed looked… but I loved that others thought so, too.

is era of “performative” Instagram posed its share of challenges. Gen Z, in particular, experienced a heightened desire for unrealistic standards, which led to a spike in mental health issues and eating disorders. With almost ten years of exposure to Instagram, however, I feel like we nally arrived at a point of collective awareness: that our online personas are, indeed, performative. We realized that others’ pro les are merely a highlight reel of our lives. With this shared understanding, in conjunction with Instagram’s removal of the like count in 2019, Instagram was beginning to feel like a healthier online community. Well, until 2020.

Once we were forced into our houses with limited social interaction, a less-glamorous version of our lives became normalized. With no fancy events or trips on people’s calendars, Instagram users were limited with what they could post, particularly in uencers, whose incomes were reliant on their pro les. ere was no point in fabricating a life that others knew couldn’t exist during this period, so we either had to post ordinary elements of our lives or not post at all. is ushered us into the new era of “Casual Instagram.”

Regarded as the antithesis of what Instagram was preCOVID, Casual Instagram presents the “spontaneity” of everyday life. “Photo dumps” are a key component of the trend, which consists of “throwing together” unrelated photos in a carousel to showcase every aspect of what a person has been up to. It’s almost as if we’ve gone back to our middle school roots, posting whatever we want (minus the cringe). Casual posting promotes a sense of heightened individuality that Instagram lacked before. It nds beauty in the mundane. While I appreciate the desire for something more casual, Instagram has made me feel worse than ever. It has made me think the mundaneness of my life isn’t good enough.

e problem with Casual Instagram is that authenticity and arti ciality are merged together, making it dicult to decipher what is genuine. We aren’t just seeing beautiful photos of our peers on vacation, at a birthday party, or out for dinner; we are seeing everything… Staying in. Wine nights. Interior decor. Half-eaten meals. Candid moments of friends. Car rides. Hot girl walks. Running errands. Almost every aspect of a person’s life is now documented for their followers to see. Regardless of how casual we might perceive this to be, each image in a “photo dump” is still strategically selected to convey a particular identity. For most people, the intended identity is ‘cool’ and ‘carefree.’

Casual Instagram makes expectations run deeper. You need to be beautiful yet e ortless. Friendly yet chill. Social yet spontaneous. Messy but funny. Typically ordinary moments must seem eventful. I want to clarify that I am not above this trend; like any online trend, I adopted Casual Instagram almost subconsciously. A er noticing how Instagram was making me feel, I started to look inward as to why. I realized that my inner dialogue when posting evolved from “I look good in this photo and I want people to see it” to “I want people to see how many friends I have regardless of how lonely I actually feel.”

Perhaps I’m just overly cynical, but most of us can agree that creating a fully authentic online self is, quite frankly, impossible. Instagram has become an oxymoron; we want to appear indi erent to social media, but by doing so, we post something almost every day. e ultimate form of casualness would be not having social media at all, but then, of course, how would anyone know how casual you are?

written & designed by Sarah Higgins

Spring Salads

E

mbodying the fresh feel of spring, these recipes will leave you feeling refreshed for a day out in the sun.

Peach Pecan Salad

Ingredients Directions

• 4 cups of spinach

• 1 peach, sliced

• ½ cup blueberries

• ¼ cup toasted pecans

• ¼ cup goat cheese

• 6 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp honey

• Salt and pepper

15m each recipe!

Strawberry Mandarin Salad with Honey Dijon Vinagrette with Poppyseed Dressing

Whisk olive oil, apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, and honey together.

Generously add salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.

Wash & prepare spinach. Slice peaches into preferred size. In a medium sized bowl, combine spinach, peaches, and blueberries.

Drizzle vinaigrette overtop and mix. Top with goat cheese and toasted pecans. Serve.

(meal prepping: store in airtight container without dressing in refrigerator for 1-3 days)

Ingredients Directions

• 4 cups Spinach

• 1 cup strawberries, sliced

• ½ cup mandarin oranges, drained

• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

• ¼ cup toasted pecans

Wash & prepare spinach.

Slice or cube the strawberries. Drain mandarin oranges.

Toss spinach, strawberries, and mandarin oranges in a medium sized bowl.

Drizzle Poppy Seed dressing overtop and mix everything together.

Add feta cheese & toasted pecans. Serve.

Cicada

Written by Leah Long

Designed by Jaelin Hilliard

I have a tattoo of a cicada right above my elbow on my left arm, about 3 inches wide. Some often mistake it for a butterfly or a moth, but I always correct them. I was picky, deciding how I wanted it to look. I needed it to look exactly like the cicadas in my memories. Mental images and stories from my early childhood are often seen through rose-colored glasses, a perspective I’ve gained through conversations with my mother; conversations revolving around fond memories that, upon reflection, turned out to be much more disappointing than I initially remembered. I’ve grown to be almost resentful of any lasting memories, knowing that the perception that I held onto was inaccurate. The perception I had of my smaller self fell apart through my teenage years as each conversation left a new crack in the rose-colored glasses. However, my memories of the cicadas held true.

The preschool I attended was one that placed emphasis on sharing, love, and nature. We spent what felt like hours playing outside each day. I still remember my routine. Every day, I wore my faux fur-lined coat that I would lay upside-down on the ground, put my hands in the sleeves, and flip over my head just to put it on correctly (I had some trouble navigating sleeves). When the door opened to the playground, I beelined to the back, near the woods, and started scanning the ground. My caretaker, Miss Amanda, sat on the steps near the door with a large Ziploc bag. There was an unusual number of cicadas in the area, and we collected the shells of dead cicadas nearly every day. I don’t know what happened to them, how it started, or why we did it, but it was something that I looked forward to.

Focusing on the big world under my small feet was something new to me. This was a shift in my development; I was learning how to truly pay attention. Up until this new activity, I only noticed the sensations that were yelling in my face. The banging of construction across the street, the screaming of my classmates, the sounds of the surrounding city. Knees bent and head down, I tuned it all out and I paid attention.

Instead of my surroundings choosing what I observed, I chose. I remember every sensation. I felt the breeze in the air as the leaves grew on the trees. I smelled that late winter scent. I watched the clouds drift past in the sky. After the rain, I smelled the dirt and watched the worms emerge from the ground, just to go right back under. Finding a cicada shell was like finding gold, and I inspected each one. The wings were always colorful and different from the last. Now, I’m squeamish with bugs, but at the time, I had no fear. I picked up each one very lightly, between my thumb and my forefinger. I walked to Miss Amanda and showed her what I had observed. Then, I dropped it in the bag and went back to my search. I was fully consumed until there were no cicadas left to find.

To me, cicadas are special. They’re representative of a lot of things, primarily resurrection and rebirth. They have one of the longest life spans of any insect, but only emerge after 17 years underground as larvae. Much like a cicada, human growth takes time. I have grown into myself and will continue to do so. Endless versions of me have existed and more will exist in the future. Changing perspective, gaining insight, and accepting love are some of the catalysts that help me grow into new versions of myself. Most importantly, I’ve realized the importance of loving myself enough to desire growth. We aren’t finished growing until we’re dead, and then we start the process all over again.

The Art of Getting Ready

just a girl

Arianna Larsen on girlhood

It’s high heels, kitten heels–Cinderella plastic heels. The very development of society has coevolved with the development of an ever changing series of confines, expectations and unique challenges for young girls. There will never be a real tell as to when girlhood begins and ends. When girls become women they are left plagued with the urge of adolescent dreams removed from them, or the pursuit of a career in a male-dominated world. With the rise of the 2023 Greta Gerwig Barbie, many have begun to admit girlhood in the year 2024 has approached a dream, a fantasy, reeking of nostalgia and the loss of a world with clouded pink skies in which nothing goes wrong.

Growing up as femine traverses many phases, all of which I have experienced firsthand, and are often marked by loss of innocence. Watching my friends go from making Webkinz YouTube music videos to joking about leaking their nudes for money. Moreover, it would do no justice to not include the media that holds substantial emphasis in my own life, and how ‘growing up too fast’ carries more weight than just a term thrown around on tiktok.

A swarm of new-wave preteens dominating the aisles of popular makeup stores has taken over my ‘for you’ page. Nineties films remind me of how badly I wanted to look like Denise Richards in Wild Things (she was 26 playing a high schooler). Young girls struggle with recreating Megan Fox’s scenes in Jennifer’s Body, or find themselves relating more to the sheepish side character, Needy. My mother texts me about her newfound freedom in her fifties, while I begin to figure out which careers will allow me to still wear a skirt above my fingertips. I have waited for the day in which I could move out, smoke a cigarette, or wear a tampon. Yet somehow, I am met with a different overarching feeling that is reemphasized through slideshows and Twitter posts. “I am just a teenage girl in my twenties” repeats in my head every time I call my mom about a sudden ailment.

er I want to dress “ballet/coquette/girly/chic” or “office-siren” that day. When discussing a yearning for teenage girlhood, there are things that are less talked about, but arguably define adolescence as a young girl.

I often imagine whether or not my life would’ve been different if not placed within the confinement of an inflexible culture. Whether it be with or without social media, I will never know: because as a 22-year-old in 2024, I have not lived a teenage life without it. Would girls have been losing their virginities earlier or later if not for the possibility it shows up on Snapchat the next day? Would I have been more comfortable with my body if not for dress codes or uncomfortable looks from older men? Should I have prayed for bigger boobs back then?

Today, young girls are doing what I believe they have always done: attempting to achieve an appearance well beyond their age. Retinol at age 12, Skims hauls, and “GRWM for the middle school dance”. Do I blame them? No, definitely not. With technology today it seems as though the older women get, the more exposure to the younger generation they will have outside of merely young relatives of the past. Young girls are famous and plastered on discover pages around the clock, judgment comes from all sides. If the young girls log off, they will be judged for not being popular. The pressure keeps them engaged and the industry of girlhood continues.

Suddenly, 25-year-olds are old and 13 Going on 30 is a real-life occurrence. Looking back on my childhood, I can’t say I’ve never imagined myself dressing up at age twelve and believing Harry Styles would marry me on the spot. Angus, Thongs, and Perfect Snogging was a Nickelodeon movie we had to sneakily watch, and I always thought I knew better than other girls my age.

I grapple to revisit my years of wearing tutus and baby pink through recent trends or how Kendall Jenner is making bows big again. There is no clear-cut line between infantilization and OnlyFans. There is no choosing wheth-

As an adult girl in my early twenties, I have discovered that my youth is not in the past, but is still occurring. So no, I am not only seventeen years old, nor am I six, or twenty-one, or ninety-five. While growing up too fast is not a new phase, it feels exhilarating in a day of new technology.

When did growing up become a facade?

BOOKS WE HAVE BEEN LOVING

THIS SPRING SEASON

CLOTHES CLOTHES CLOTHES, MUSIC MUSIC MUSIC, BOYS BOYS BOYS

by Viv Albertine

1970s London… Vivienne Westwood’s fashion was taking over while the punk movement began to catch on. Viv Albertine, guitar player in the iconic punk band, “The Slits” accounts her experience of the punk scene in London through her acclaimed memoir girls girls girls, music, music, music, boys boys boys. This memoir is packed with hilarious anecdotes and thrilling stories, from handcuffing herself to Sid Viscous for days, having an affair with The Clash’s “Mick Jones” and pioneering the punk scene: Viv Albertine has seen it all. The novel not only entails her fanatical star-studded days as a musician but candidly recounts her experience after the punk movement ended. Albertine entails how motherhood has come to affect her after surviving a bout with cancer and pursuing a career in film. This memoir is an inspiration to young girls everywhere to pursue what fulfills them.

A WILD SHEEP CHASE

by Haruki Murakami

A Wild Sheep Chase by Japanese novelist Haruki Murakami is...hard to pin down. In summary, it is a wacky detective story encapsulated through dreamlike sequences that do not entirely connect. Although the premise of the novel is simple, nothing else about it is. Our unnamed narrator is tasked with the job of locating a sheep seen in an advertisement. Along the way, our protagonist (the unnamed narrator) meets a slew of quirky characters who aid him through the journey. Throughout his journey, our narrator explores his own identity while experiencing a dream-like reality.

SLOUCHING TOWARDS BETHLEHEM

by Joan Didion

Joan Didion was a force to be reckoned with. Her prowess in the literary and film community garnered her a respected reputation among writers and cinephiles alike in the 1960s and beyond. A Pulitzer Prize winner and award-winning screenplay writer, nobody writes like Joan. Her second novel Slouching Towards Bethlehem, published in 1967, is a collection of news and personal essays written by Joan in California. She takes us through her time working on set with John Wayne, America’s favorite cowboy, to the analysis of the state of California during “The Summer of Love.” Whip-smart and equally entertaining ‘Slouching Towards Bethlehem” is simply

ON EARTH WE’RE BRIEFLY GORGEOUS

by Occean Vuong

Ocean Vuong’s debut novel, On Earth, We’re Briefly Gorgeous is an incredibly moving testament to the bounds of self-discovery. Throughout his work, Vuong explores themes of race, class, sexuality, and the generational impacts of immigration. He weaves us in and out of the past and through a collection of stories written to the main character, “Little Dog’s,” mother. “Little Dog” is a 28-year-old struggling poet, grappling with the inner demons of his adolescence. Vuong’s novel is not linear: He takes us back in time with Little Dog’s grandmother to the Vietnam War and brought back again to his adolescence in Connecticut. Before the books close, we are propelled forward again to his current state. “On Earth, We’re Briefly Gorgeous” is a triumph..

Writing & Design: Sarah Cote

“this sense of ‘place’... suburban alien

...that there was nothing to be wanted from material things, nothing to be saved.”

-eve babitz

inspired by juno birch

REBELRenaissance

Modern-day trends and fads are almost completely controlled or influenced by social media. The virality of content posted on various platforms determines how well they will adhere to pop culture and influence trends. �mo and goth subcultures dominated the social scene during their creation in the late ���0s to mid-���0s as they developed around the rock music scene. This trend experienced its first resurgence in the mid-2000s to 20�0s when it blew up on social media platforms such as �acebook, YouTube, and Tumblr. �owever, it failed to stick and stay relevant. Today these subcultures are experiencing yet another resurgence on social media due to emo or goth content creators dominating the most popular forms of social media.

Social media algorithms have pushed the content made by emo and goth creators as the growing subculture is amplified across different platforms. The most prominent aspects of these cultures are their distinct fashion and aesthetic. Goth as a subculture is filled with multiple smaller subcultures and versions. Some of the most prominent forms of goth fashion on social media are romantic, traditional, and glam rock. �omantic goth is a softer, more feminine look shown on characters such as �orticia �dams from the �dams family. Traditional goth fashion is often shown with drastic black and white makeup, black clothing, and extravagant hair and style. Glam rock is characteri�ed by more feminine clothing, makeup, and hair. Think �avid �owie and The �and �iss. These forms of goths are often portrayed by smaller social media content creators and unfortunately have not gained as much attention as the more emo, 2000s aesthetic creators. �mo stems from �emotional hardcore� and is based around introspection and emotional rock music. This style is commonly characteri�ed by predominantly black or dark-colored clothing paired with bolder colors such as red, purple, or green. The hairstyles commonly sported by those identifying as emo are dark hair colors and sharply layered and angled cuts. Though they are often grouped together, these subcultures have key differences that make them uni�ue from one another.

Specifically, the emo subculture has begun to dominate the social media scene as the largest content creators fully immerse themselves in this aesthetic. Tara Yummy, a 23-year-old content creator based out of Los Angeles who began her career on YouTube has become the face of the emo resurgence on TikTok. Tara, along with fellow content creators Jake Webber and Johnny Goth have blown up on TikTok in recent months as they post daily content. Tara Yummy and Jake Webber follow more 2000s emo fashion trends and aesthetics, whereas Johnny Goth sports a more traditional emo look. Their social media popularity has sparked trends in music across several platforms and influenced fashion and makeup in pop culture. Although this style has been viewed negatively by past generations, it has undoubtedly become one of the most popular and sought-after styles amongst teens and young adults of all genders, socioeconomic classes, and backgrounds.

The resurgence of the emo and goth scenes in 2024 is a testament to the enduring power of subcultures to adapt and thrive in the digital age. Social media has provided a platform for individuals to express themselves, connect with others, and keep these underground movements alive. While it is unclear how these trends will adapt as social media changes, it is clear that emo and goth culture will always make a resurgence amongst youth.ia rei simmoenatuus omnes et, nihil vignorte etruntr or

Written by Taylor Wolynec

Designed by Lila Rosser

FLAIR’S TOP 5 PLACES TO SKATE IN WILMINGTON

“Dumpy”

For those UNCW students who live on campus but don’t have a car, Dumpy is the place for you!

As its name suggests, Dumpy is an area behind the Belk dumpsters, so it doesn’t always smell rosy… but the newly paved concrete and slightly downhill angle make it hard to resist!

Greenfield Skate Park

17th Street Surf Shop

It’s always nice to skate at a place where you can pick up a new deck or a fresh pair of shoes. 17th Street Surf Shop’s indoor skate park is just that. e catch? You’ll need to know someone who has access. It’s exactly this exclusivity that preserves its pressure-free environment. e emptiness allows you to take your time mastering new tricks without the crowd, so it’s worth the e ort to gain access!

“DIY”

Nestled away behind Seahawk Cove lies a hidden gem of the skateboard community—a secluded skate park built entirely by the hands of local enthusiasts. Access to the park requires jumping over a fence, but this minor hurdle only adds to the allure. While this park is better suited for advanced skaters, do not let that intimidate you—if you’re keen on improving, people are generally willing to o er advice.

Most of you will know this one, and for good reason. Green eld o ers a little bit of everything, from bowls to rails to ledges, so you can really work on anything. Because of its popularity, it tends to be quite crowded; however, being surrounded by people with a similar interest isn’t all that bad!

Carolina Beach

e Carolina Beach skate park is a beginner-friendly skate spot distinguished by its calm and secluded setting. e extra twenty-minute drive makes it a little less crowded than Greeneld, so it’s perfect for newcomers or those aiming to practice dropping into bowls.

Written & Designed by Meghan Gregory & Sammie Muller

START HERE:

What is your ideal activity? outdoor adventure retail therapy

Dream bedroom decor? clean, minimalist, cozy posters and fun colors!

WHAT IS YOUR AESTHETIC? CLASSY BOLD

What is your favorite snack?

a sweet treat something savory Beach town or city? beach! city!

Go to coffee order: classic iced coffee something sweet!

Perfect first date: romantic picnic fancy dinner

Models: Lily Hesse, Julia Gámez,Taylor Wolynec Designer: Grace Baeurle Writer: Lily Hesse Creative Directors: Grace Baeurle, Lily Hesse Photographer: Grace Baeurle

VS. the doll feud of the early 2000s is so back.

Written and designed by: Sara Byrnes

THE HISTORY

BRATZ WERE CREATED by Carter Bryant, a former Mattel employee. Mattel being the company that makes Barbie.

Bryant was a fashion student who desperately wanted to go to Parson’s School of Fashion Design in Paris, but lacked the funding. He channeled his passion for fashion into dolls instead.

Bratz were released in 2001 and were an instant success. Bryant got the inspiration for Bratz when he drove past a high school in Minnesota, his home state, and saw a group of girls who embodied self-confidence and sass, which is to say they knew their worth and weren’t going to back down.

The dolls were different and cool. They were ethnically diverse. They were fashionable. They wore makeup. They oozed cool girl. But Bratz were also filling a gap in the market: dolls that weren’t just white. When Bryant was originally pitching his idea, many companies were interested only in Yasmin, the white-presenting doll, but Bryant stood firm to his vision and told the companies, sorry, but these dolls are a package deal, and landed a huge corner of the market.

Bratz ended up outselling Barbie in 2004 in the UK. In US Markets, Barbie cornered 60% and Bratz 40% of the market. Mattel wasn’t going to let this fly; they sued MGA for plagiarism and copyright infringement. The fight went on for years, inspiring the book "You Don’t Own Me" about media law and ethics in the workplace, and a potential TV show of the same name from CBS.

BRATZ ★ BABY

BRATZ WERE THE COOL-GIRL

DOLLS—the dolls for the girls who watched “Keeping up with the Kardashians” from the first season, the movie "Thirteen", shopped at Limited Too and Justice, whose mothers took them bra shopping and maybe bought them a thong. After Bratz emerged into the world, Barbie went from being the doll standard to being the doll for the girls whose parents wouldn’t let them buy Bratz because, “why would I buy you a doll that’s called a brat?” which when asked about years later became, “those dolls were too sexy for children.” Naturally, Mattel released their own version of a Bratz doll– My Scene dolls, because that’s how you handle competition in capitalist USA.

Bratz have managed to maintain a social media presence and stay

relevant in the 21st century. Their Instagram feed shows celebrity version of the dolls, endless fashion looks, and nods to pop culture events. We see a Bratz version of Lana Del Rey from Coachella, a SZA Bratz album cover, a Cowboy Carter Bratz doll. They know how to adapt to the changing times in order to maintain a brand presence. People love it. One comment reads: “Y’all don’t sleep. That was fast.” In reference to the Lana post which was up mere hours after completion of her set.

Bratz knows their target audience and caters to them. These are still dolls for girls, but they are also dolls for the girls who used to play with them and grew up.

BARBIE, THE ORIGINAL GIRL’S

DOLL, was created by Ruth Handler, a woman, in 1959, after she took a trip to Germany and bought a similar doll for her daughter and discovered a gap in the US market.

Barbie was the standard doll for girls. There were fashion Barbies, working Barbies, dress up Barbies, and princess Barbies. The concept of Barbie was to make a doll for girls that wasn’t a baby doll, but something she could aspire to.

Mattel, the company that manufactured and created the dolls, almost had a monopoly on the market— that is until Bratz came along.

Barbie is a heavy-hitting name. Last summer, we saw the release of the live action “Barbie” movie that broke records at the box office.

People know Barbie. People love Barbie. Because of this it seems

that Mattel is less interested in cultivating a mood board, fashion brand presence online. They clearly have a mission and stick to it. They know what works for them.

Barbie’s Instagram feed is less of a cohesive brand vision and more of a collage of what they know to work. Their feed features real people, stories, stop motion films, short reels, and promos for the new dolls they are releasing.

On their Instagram, Barbie posts various examples of One-Of-AKind dolls based on real girls and their stories globally. People in the comments love this inclusion and representation. It's definitely helping Barbie stay in the doll game.

CLEAN GIRL

THE CURRENT DICHOTOMY between Y2K and Clean Girl aesthetics is the grown-up version of the Bratz v Barbie feud. The Clean Girl aesthetic has gone viral online with over two billion views on TikTok. It’s represented by minimalism, pilates, green juice, “no-makeup” makeup, middle-part slicked-back bun, the produce section of Whole Foods, skincare obsession, Dior lip oil, bullet journaling, and general lack of color. It’s also usually synonymous with model skinny. The outfits are understated, there’s a general lack of jewelry aside from gold hoops. Think jeans and a tight-fitting t-shirt with sneakers and a claw clip. The Clean Girl look is tried and true. It will get the job done if you’re in a pinch. It says, “I’m elegant, serious, and mature.”

When I think of Clean Girl, the influencer that comes to mind is Claudia Sulewski. With her newly blonde hair, her style embodies the simplicity of Clean Girl: really expensive basics.

She’s usually dressed in jeans and a t-shirt but somehow still gives off rich (probably because she is). She's always been one for no makeup, but ever since her body brand launch, we've seen even less makeup looks from her.

Another celebrity example would be Hailey Bieber, she embodies the Clean Girl “no-makeup makeup” which is in part due to the promotion of her skincare line. Her clothes are monochromatic, comfortable, and simple.

I also think of recent Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid. Both rocking monochromatic, understated looks. Bella is usually wearing something that looks timeless, elegant, and simple. People’s style changes as they move through life, but recently we’ve been getting more Clean Girl looks from both ladies.

Y2K BABY

THE Y 2K AESTHETIC functions

almost in response to the Clean Girl aesthetic, like the relationship of Bratz to Barbies. Y2K is about calling back the past. It’s about maximalism, low-rise jeans, belly shirts, knee-high boots, big belt buckles, thongs peeking out of your jeans, and mini skirts. The colors are bold.

The accessories are over present: gold necklaces, large hoops, hair clips. The makeup follows suit— think blue eyeshadow and brown lips; think Bratz doll. In the Y2K aesthetic, there is an overwhelming sense of nostalgia that is similar to the nostalgia of Bratz who seem to call back 90s powerhouse fashion icons like Kate Moss.

The Y2K aesthetic is futuristic with a pinch of nostalgia. It’s denim on denim, metallics, bold prints. When I think of Y2K fashion, I think of Julia Fox. Y2K fashion says “look at me, I’m here to stay and I don’t care what you think”—a message

that Fox fully embodies. She is edgy and dares to be different. Her makeup is overstated to the point of being art. She pushes the boundaries of what we’ve known fashion to do. Another influencer to look towards for Y2K inspiration is Devon Lee Carlson. She’s the Y2K fashion It Girl. A quick peek through her Instagram shows miniskirts, tiny tops, competing prints, sheer dresses over statement lingerie.

There is no right way to fashion. Fashion is a way to express yourself and turn your body into a canvas. Trends are always talking to each other. The rise of the two looks at the same time is interesting when compared to the rise of both Barbie and Bratz in the early 2000s. It’s less of a competition between the two and more of a discovery of what you like from each trend and incorporating it into your style if that’s what feels right to you. Both Barbies and Bratz can live under one roof. ·

sau·da·de /sou däd / noun

an emotional state of melancholic or profoundly nostalgic longing for a beloved yet absent something or someone.

“he experienced saudade, or a longing nostalgia, for the life he shared with her”

Aries: Running

WANT A NEW HOBBY BASED ON YOUR SIGN?

Aries are brave, energetic, optimistic, and adventurious. Use your passion and channel it into starting a new challenge like running! As an Aries, you might be more inclined to boredom when trying new things, so to spice it up, try coming up with new running trails to keep your mind engaged.

Gemini: Volunteering

Geminis are social, playful people who love to try new things. Though volunteering can be more than just a hobby, it would be a wonderful new activity for a Gemini to try. Geminis love to be intellectually challenged, which can be done by meeting new people through volunettring for different organizations!

Taurus: Knitting

When you think of Taurus, you may thing of the bull mascot and equate that with a stubborn nature. Though Taurans may have a stubborn side, they can also be incredibly patient and gentle. This stedfast determination paired with a tender nature could make for a knitting champ! Taking up a knitting (or crocheting!) project may seem daunting, but before you know it, you’ll be makinggifts for yourself and all of your friends!

Cancer: Gardening

Leo:

Learn a new instrument

Leos are loyal, cpnfident, and determined, which are the perfect traits to have when trying to learn a new instrument. It may be hard, but if anyone can stick to it, it’s a Leo. Even better, Leos are natural leaders. Once you feel like you’ve mastered a new instrument, why not start a band!

If you are a Cancer, you may be aware of your protective, nurturinside. Have you ever thought of becoming a plant parent? Use those suppostive tendencies to cultivate a green living space. As a Cancer, you may find that you love a nice, organized plan. For a challenge, try growing a polycultured garden, with many different kinds of plants at once! Put those organizational skills to good use!

Virgo: Try a new sport

Virgos are logical, patient, and hardworking. With the combination of their drive and chill personalities, Virgos have the perfect nature to get really into a new sport, but no take it too seriously. If you’re a Virgo, try joining an intramural team!

Libra: Start a book club

If you’re a Libra, your nature is romantic, artistic, and intellectual. You are also diplomatic and would make a great leader. To satisfy both of these Libra tendencies, you should try starting a book club. Possibly one that focuses on romance novels?Let yourself get lost in new worlds and satisfy your creative, curious nature.

Sagittarius: Photography

People who are Sagittarius are curious, philosophical, and a little impatient, which means they might prefer a hobby like photography. Photography will give a Sagittarius a chance to get in touch with their artistic side, and the involvement of technology means a hobby they can work on at any time. If you are a Sag, pick up a camera and see how you like it!

Aquarius: Painting

Scorpio: Rock climbing

Scorpios are brave, strategic, and ambitious. Scorpios have what it takes to be great rock climbers, or to use it as a casual outlet to get some energy out. If you’re a Scorpio and have ever thought about getting into rock climbing, give it a try!

Capricorn: Puzzles

Doing a puzzle takes persistance, organization, and some critical thinking, which makes it the perfect thing for a Capricorn to try! Capricorns are known to have all of these qualities as well as some real ambition. If you’ve ever tried to do a puzzle over 1,000 pieces, you know that ambition might actually be the MOST important quality to have for a pro puzzler!

Aquarians are creative, spirited, and tend to enjoy an activity with more freedom. For an Aquarius, painting would be an awesome chance to explore that creative side. If you’re an Aquarius who wants to get into painting, try going for a more abstract style first! You might find that you enjoy breaking as many art “rules” as possible! Pisces: Creative writing

As a Pisces, you are very in tune with the emotions of others, as well as your own. Pisces also tend to be highly creative and imaginitive, which would tie perfectly with a passion for creative writing! Use that imagination to create new worlds and stories! If you’re not so sure about creative writing, journaling could be a great start! Express those emotions by writing them down and see where it goes from there!

FLAIRTHE MAGAZINE SPRING24 ’ PLAYLIST

Side A:

What Ever Happened? -The Strokes

Sometimes Always -The Jesus and Mary Chain

E. Coli (feat. Earl Sweatshirt) -The Alchemist, Earl Sweatshirt

Doo Wop (That Thing) -Ms. Lauryn Hill

Game Of Pricks -Guided By Voices

You’ve Got A Woman -Whitney

Naive -The Kooks

Tears Dry On Their Own -Amy Winehouse

Do You Realize?? -The Flaming Lips

No Aloha -The Breeders

Daylight -Matt and Kim

What You Know -Two Door Cinema Club

Goth -Sidewalks and Skeletons

Hex Girlfriend -Neon Indian

Feeling Better -The Teenagers

Nova Baby -The Black Keys

Sleepyhead -Passion Pit

Punching In A Dream -The Naked and Famous

Girlfriend in a Coma -The Smiths

Malibu -Hole

Homecoming -The Teenagers Design By:Sarah Cote Curated By: Arianna Larsen, Sarah Cote

FLAIRTHE MAGAZINE SPRING24 ’ PLAYLIST

Side B:

Incinerate -Sonic Youth

A Lack of Understanding -The Vaccines

Everything Is Embarrassing -Sky Ferreira

Walk On the Wild Side -Lou Reed

Blue Coupe -Twin Peaks

Falling Apart -Slow Pulp

Don’t Swallow the Cap -The National

Blue Flower -Mazzy Star

Dumb -Pretty Sick

I’ve Wasted So Much Time -Enjoy

Out of Your League -Blood Orange, Steve Lacy

Today (feat. Teo Halm) -Omar Apollo, Teo

Halm

Both Sides Now -Joni Mitchell

Obstacle 1 -Interpol

Yesterday and Today -Yes

True Love Will Find You In The End -Crybaby

Just Like Honey -The Jesus and Mary Chain

Tugboat -Galaxie 500

Autumn Sweater -Yo La Tengo

Swingin Party -The Replacements

FOR HOSTING OUR RELEASE PARTY!

Photoshoot Credits

Board shoot

Photographer : Jaelin Hilliard & maxwell stafford

creative director : Flair BoaRD page design : jaelin hilliard

Boyhood

Photographer : gaby cudicio

Creative Director : maxwell stafford

Models : anothony ponce, conner johnston, michael ponce, soren gibbs

Styling : maxwell stafford, modells, sarah cote page design : maxwell stafford

dollhouse

Photographer : jaelin hilliard

Creative Director : jaelin hilliard

Models : paige buttrey

Makeup : keelly macdonald

Hair : keely macdonald

Styling : jaelin hilliard, vanessa taylor page design : jaelin hilliard

who!

Photographer : raegan butts

Creative Director : sarah higgins

Models : isabella frers, jade morrison, maxwell stafford

Makeup : grayson vick

Hair : sarah cote

Styling : models, vanessa taylor

set design : jaelin hilliard, sarah coate, sarah higgins page design : sarah higgins

Glory days

Photographer : sammie muller

Creative Director : arianna larsen

Models : addis mcdonald, arianna larsen, leo

OLVERA, sammy meszler

Makeup : grayson vick, models

Hair : sarah cote

Styling : arianna larsen, jaelin hilliard, sarah cote, sammy meszler

page design : arianna larsen

nostalgia

Photographer : maxwell stafford

Creative Director : flair board

Models : Aiden Bryceland, Gino macias, Katie mac filer, Katrine luh, kiara munoz

Makeup : models

Hair : jaelin hilliard, models

Styling : jaelin hilliard, maxwell stafford, models, sarah cote, sophia mahle

page design : maxwell stafford

prom

Photographer : lila rosser

Creative Director : julia knowles, katie mac filer

Models : ginny smith, macy burgess, meghan gregory, meris duprey, sophia mahle

Makeup : grayson vick

Hair : jaelin hilliard, sarah cote

Styling : creative directors, models

page design : lila rosser

Suburban Alien

Photographer : ty mckenzie

Creative Director : grayson vick

Models : leah coale

Makeup : grayson vick

Hair : sarah coate, ty mckenzie

Styling : sarah cote, vanessa taylor

page design : grayson vick

Digital

Photographer : Isabella haddon

Creative Director : leah coale

Models : Gwen Cogger, Julianna Broadway, Jaelin Hilliard, Sheridan Taylor

Makeup : grayson vick

Hair : sarah cote, sammy meszler

Styling : models, vanessa taylor, sarah cote, sammy meszler

page design : jaelin hilliard

saudade

Photographer : sarah cote

Creative Director : sophia mahle, stephanie grasmick

Models : Camille thompson, kelsey drake, mia davis, savannah brittain

Makeup & hair : models

Styling : creative directors, models

page design : sarah cote