Flash Issue No. 3: Spring/Summer 2014 by FLASH Magazine

Flash Spring/Summer 2014

No. 3

Flash Karishma Kapoor Editor-In-Chief Professor Amy Aronson Advisor

Suzette Dorrielan Founder Clare Deck Arts and Culture Editor

Francesca Leite Social Media Manager

Hallie Tate Creative Director

Danica Talon Kaley Walters Beauty Editors Francesca Cascardo Matthew Hacke Fashion Editors Christina Mislouis Photoshoot Coordinator Frances Sosa Make-up Artist Emily Tiberio Layout Designer Julie Kim Qinrui Ha Lauren Bragat Casimir Black Tessa Bloechl Photographers Andrew Maitner Stephanie Kawalski Sarah Antony Illustrators

Table of Contents Fashion Rise of the Comtemportary CounterCulture New Kids on the BLOK Spring Fling: 6 Spring 2014 Designer Collections to Fall Head Over Heels For Closets out of Closet...Secrets of a Fashion Addict Revealed

Beauty Which Nail Shape is Best for You? Secret Natural Remedies Game of Thrones Hair Radiant Orchid: Pantone’s Pefect Pick

Culture It’s All About the Stage 8 Places You Didn’t Know Existed in NY Standing Against Modern Day Slavery ReTurn of the Vinyl People in the Big Apple Summertime Concerts and Festivals Play This

Editorial Urban StreetStyle Photoshoot

8 11 15 20

22 24 25 26 36

40 42 44 47 48 53 54

Editor’s Letter Hello Readers, Like many others on campus, I too made my way to Keating Steps to get a glimpse of the much talked about eclipse this past April. The first part of the night was spent laughing with friends and coaxing the clouds to move out of the way. Every so often, we mentioned how rare this moment was. A little later, a friend and I made our way to the bleachers and climbed all the way to the top. Three years on this campus and I still haven’t found a spot like that one. It’s like pressing a reboot button. That view of Keating made me forget all about the eclipse, Keating was suddenly more enticing. I’ve seen Keating a million times, so many of you have, but we can all agree that it inspires us today just the way it did on our first day on this campus. Every so often, we find ourselves stunned by it. Stunned by being so close to it, just having access to it. I would have never imagined I was going to be here three or four years ago. That realization brings me pleasant surprise and gratitude. It’s not being near Keating that causes an awestruck moment, but what Keating represents – monumental occurrences. We all have different realizations. Mine has been breaking the mold. That moment at the bleachers, I realized how different this year has been for me; a year ago, I had never imagined that I’d be here writing this letter to you all. I’m a business student who is far from the ‘image’ of a fashionista. My predecessor left big shoes to fill, shoes that were uncomfortable and may just make me fall flat on my face – the business world is more about comfort than nice heels after all. Yet here I am. And I don’t have to fit a mold to fall in love with all things fashion and beauty. The spring semester is always full of surprises for all of us. Whether you’re a freshman, sophomore, junior or senior – we all know that feeling of a new slate, a slate that allows for a new image, a new mold. But sometimes, it’s hard to make a new mold when you have an old one. Maybe you’re a communications major who really wants to study the sciences. Maybe you’re a finance intern who yearns to get home and play with make-up. Don’t let your molds define you. It’s a good thing when you find yourself somewhere thinking, ‘I never imagined I’d be here, I never planned this’. These moments are important, they remind us of how much has changed, what we have lost and what we have gained in turn. If we all followed our plans exactly – we’d be stuck inside old molds. Three in the morning on the bleachers watching Keating wouldn’t make for such a good story and our Instagram feeds probably wouldn’t be so full of wonderful Keating moments! Here at Flash, when we first established the publication, we often reflected on what we wanted to achieve with it. We struggled a lot with what our “mold” would be. At the end, looking back, I’m glad to say we don’t have one. We leave room for a new Flash every semester. We hope you enjoy what we’ve put together for you and hope each of you take away something different. I am thrilled and thankful to work with a fantastic and talented editorial team who has filled each page with ideas that lead to new possibilities and new molds for each and every one of you. My eclipse viewing didn’t really go as planned, but I guess these rare moments never really do and that, is a good thing. XO,

Karishma Kapoor Editor-in-Chief

Founder’s Note Dear Readers,

I came to Fordham three years ago as a transfer student, up-rooted once again from everything I knew and was familiar with. I left Drexel University to have the opportunity to be in New York, a city I love more than can be described, and to have a better chance at pursuing fashion, an art I fell in love with in high school. Unfortunately, I realized that Fordham lacked an outlet for those interested in fashion editorial and publishing. It was then in my sophomore year, I realized I wanted and needed to start FLASH Magazine. FLASH soon became more than a passion project, but a part of me. It is not only my creation, but my child. But like all parents, it is time for me to let go. I have faith that the current editors and the ones in the future will take on FLASH with the same love and dedication as I. I also have faith that they will keep in the mind the mantra behind FLASH: Fashion is art. Fashion isn’t clothes, or make-up, or runway shows. It is beauty, creativity, and an art form that brings so many creative outlets together. It is an expression of feelings and thoughts. A photoshoot is a story being told. And in that vein, I wanted my final shoot for FLASH to be something more than just pretty clothes (although the clothes are pretty). I wanted to discuss the relationship between Fordham students and Fordham’s location, the Bronx. The dichotomy that exists between wealth and poverty in this small neighborhood. It is one that is prominent, and we see it every time we walk out the gates, and sometimes while we’re still behind them. And my time here has been an exercise in the consolidation of the two. It has resulted in my appreciation of this area and things it has to offer (including, but not limited to – as my roommates know – University Pizza). I love Fordham and I love the Bronx. It is important to know that fashion can be a vehicle for good in this world. It can be thought-provoking. And it can be our only mode of expression at times. I hope FLASH continues to be a mode of expression for many more Fordham students for years to come. It’s been a pleasure, and I can’t wait to see what becomes of this organization in the coming years. It’s been an honor and a pleasure. PEACE OUT FORDHAM, IT’S BEEN REAL. XOXO, Suzette A. Dorrielan

BONUS: See Suzzette’s Photoshoot,

“Fordham Apocalypse” on Page 76

Fashion

hen the elusive graffiti artist known as “Bansky” took over NYC last October, there was great excitement in the air about where his murals and designs would strike next. For 31 days, city-goers looking for a chance to see the artist at work never did, but they did find his incredible designs popping up all over the city. This semester, we have dedicated our fashion section to the same daring, free-spirited energy that defines works of art such as Banksy’s. Expressive styles and bold statements reflect the restless excitement we all embrace this time of year. From hipster trends to streetwear styles, we’ve gathered looks that embody the essence of spring and fashion.

Rise of the Contemporary Counterculture BY Kathleen-Mae Ramas

It seems like it’s been subconsciously drilled into our heads that we’re definitely not cool enough to have that much urban flair. People think that the hipster fashion is rather difficult to emulate. Some may think that it has an essence of exclusivity, like a sorority/fraternity or something that you can’t just waltz into without some type of initiation. But, let’s dispel that myth. The evidence is obvious and the key pieces are within reach, so the only real thing stopping you from testing the waters is...well, you.

hat do you get when you throw together vintage thrifting, obscure musical discovery, and an attraction to all things “anti-mainstream"? You get an elusive individual who feeds off of all things that vibe pre-relevance, looks flawlessly disheveled in all aspects of personal style, and of course, knows a number of bands that you’ve probably never even heard of. That’s right: the hipster. What once was considered a low rise jean, or maybe a crazy drug-ridden hippie, is now the epitome of cool and suave. While people don’t like to admit it, you can’t help but be even the slightest bit intrigued by a hipster’s nonchalant allure. Yet, we’ve only settled to admire from afar.

Let’s start with the classic band tee. You’ll casually notice a hipster always sporting a tee shirt with an iconic band print, which usually turns out to be in the classic rock era, indie genre, or even old school rap (referencing The Beatles, Pink Floyd, The Smiths, Arcade Fire, Run D.M.C., etc). Often paired with this type of shirt- probably DIY-ed in some sort of way which is also very characteristic of the hipster lifestyle- is a type of high-waisted pant, another signature. Whether shorts, cropped jeans, or skinnies, the high-waisted trim is a hipster must. But, be warned. Those on the shorter side should be cautious when choosing this type of style. Sometimes, it can cut the image of your torso, and make your proportions look awkward.

As for cover-ups, there are a number of choices, but a hipster’s go-to would vary from the oversized knit cardigan or sweater to the trusty flannel. An oversized sweater gives off the vibe of, “I-wokeup-like-this” (Beyonce said it right), which is very typical of a hipster. The demeanor often speaks towards the idea of a casual or relaxed look, namely something that didn’t take much effort to put together. Often of the knit variety, it usually displays a pattern -- something like ikat or tribal, polka dots, stripes, braided threads, animal shapes, and things of the sort. It’s all about uniqueness. The more unusual the print, the more hipster you are. The flannel, on the other hand, is a staple. You’ll often see one wearing something within the red or burgundy theme, almost with the essence of soft-grunge. The flannel is an essential piece to the hipster wardrobe. For shoes, combat boots are always the easiest way to go. Whether male or female, they add a degree of edginess to any look, as well as a finishing touch for anyone trying to mirror the style. For those less inclined to follow that direction, Converses, Keds, oxfords, and ankle booties are also remnant of the vintage style, and can help to polish any look off effortlessly. Speaking of finishing touches, accessories are also incredibly important. And by incredibly important, I mean more likely to be hidden beneath the guise of subtlety. Patterned tights or socks here, a beanie there, and we can’t forget those thick rimmed plastic frames for people who don’t even have a prescription for eyeglasses. And when all else fails, a trusty pair of wayfarer shades should do the trick, almost seamlessly.

People, and retailers of that nature. Despite the stark contrast between the price ranges, the commonality between each is evident: uniqueness, quirkiness, and unabashed eclecticism. What many people mistake for some type of exclusive group can actually be likened to a sort of understated social movement. What comes to my mind first are the striking similarities between the surge in the appreciation and desire to be a part of hipster lifestyle with the rise of the 1960-70’s youth counterculture. Back when the new wave of society rallied behind the ideals of creativity, experimentation, and a bohemian lifestyle (which is very much like a precursor to the current interests of hipster conduct), people felt like they wanted to be a part of something bigger. They wanted to feel like they were important, and that they were making a statement people could either appreciate, or be discomforted by, but in all ways still somehow affecting those around them.

The obvious truth is that the hipster lifestyle revolves around individuals who are connoisseurs of all things vintage. But contrary to popular belief, not all of them sift through numerous thrift stores to try and find the trump card of all fashion hauls for under twenty dollars. As many people are aware, they can be found at any local Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Free

Lots of people give hipsters a bad rap, saying they’re too arrogant or self-absorbed because all they care about is being cooler than everyone else, or trying to stay ahead of whatever trends society sets in place. But let’s be real for a second. Try and tell me one person who doesn’t get some sort of inherent satisfaction by saying that they discovered something before everyone else did, before it was cool. Right, that’s what I thought. Since when did personal discovery ahead of the rest of the world become something so looked down upon? If anything, it’s a gratifying feeling to have something or to be a part of something that others aren’t. It’s that promise of a faux secret exclusivity that attracts us to the hipster lifestyle that makes us question it, and wonder how we can be a part of it. So in a way, that’s what the hipster culture is today. It’s a modern day youth counterculture that’s trying to rise up and make a stand in society - however cryptic or ambiguous that stand may be. While their artsy hobbies, obscure interests, and antique apparel don’t seem to make much on its own, it isn’t always about the clothes, or the objects, or what they are fascinated by. It’s more about learning to be more comfortable in your own skin, forming your own personal voice through expression, and being confident in your own uniqueness and originality, whether it’s mainstream or not.

New Kids on the “BLOK” BY Francesca Cascardo

brainstorming and I thought it would be a perfect name for the line because it doesn’t mean anything. It’s really ambiguous. I asked myself, “What’s one of the simplest geometric shapes?” It’s almost like a square… I played on that. I looked at the word ”block,” took out he c, and thought, “This is familiar, everyone knows the word block. But it’s different because now it’s ‘b-l-o-k.’ “ It’s interesting how people have their Qazi sits on a cushioned bench in the lobby of own interpretations of the word. People will say, the Walsh Library. He eagerly leans in, ready to “We’re from the city—this is my block, this is share his journey as the founder of BLOK. As he where I’m from.” So, BLOK can mean more than reflects on the progress his team has made, Qazi’s one thing. “right-hand man,” Mohamed Sabour, walks by FLASH: What’s the style of the line? What in a BLOK beanie. Sabour has a backpack full inspires your clothing designs? of assignments, but still finds a few minutes to catch up with Qazi. Sitting side-by-side, the two Qazi: The idea for BLOK was to have a New York reveal their plans for BLOK and their secrets to City based theme. We’re one of the fashion success. capitals of the world, so why not capitalize on that? A lot of the things we create are simple, FLASH: Why did you choose to name your clothing line “BLOK?” What does it mean? but unique and open to interpretation—things that catch your eye and stand out. One of the Qazi: A lot of people ask that. I was just ot many college students can say that they’ve successfully launched a fashion line while juggling obscene amounts of schoolwork. Fordham Senior Sohail Qazi started creating simplistic but unique designs to “branch out from the structure of pre-med.” His ideas quickly became the foundation for his streetwear line BLOK.

FLASH: How did you start creating the clothes? Once you had the designs, what steps did take to transform your ideas into tangible products?

reasons I decided to create the line was because I was frustrated with streetwear today; some of it is really strange. Certain clothing items are unique, but kind of outrageous, kind of weird. I thought, “Maybe I can do a better job than that.” Once I started, a lot of interesting ideas came. My team focuses on the parts of New York that we think stand out—simple things, like those blue coffee cups that have the Greek pattern on them. We accentuate those designs and make them pop. That way people can say, “This is an original product of New York.” FLASH: Are you inspired by a specific look, or one designer in particular? Qazi: I think that there’s inspiration everywhere and I do try to learn tips and tricks from other designers, especially other streetwear designers. There’s this one company called Undefeated…I love their look, so I try to learn from them; I see what works, what doesn’t work. It’s cool to be able to turn to others for inspiration. FLASH: When did you officially launch BLOK? Qazi: It hasn’t even been a full year yet. We launched last year in October, so it’s only been a couple of months, but I feel like we’ve done a lot in those couple of months. We’re growing every day. I’m excited to see where it goes.

Qazi: At first, it was kind of like the blind leading the blind; we had no idea what we were doing (laughs). Once I came up with the name BLOK, I knew that I wanted to move forward from there. So I started looking into all sorts of manufacturers. There were a lot of different options. We basically decided to order from a small printing shop in the Bronx. As I told my friends about the line, I realized that some people actually didn’t think that I was crazy, so they started getting involved. And now I have a whole team that I can rely on to order things from the clothing company, alter clothing, add our labels, put on finishing touches, wrap and package items, and finally sell our products. FLASH: Was anyone instrumental in helping you launch the line? Who was with you when you first started? Qazi: To be honest, it was all me in the beginning. You have to defend your dream. I am pre-med, so a lot of people thought I wasn’t serious at first. They thought it’d be a short-lived project. That being said, I tried to make BLOK as legitimate as possible; I had the website, I utilized social media. From there, people saw that it was starting to gain a little momentum. Mohammed—he’s also pre-med—really believed in BLOK, so he’s been my right-hand-man from day one. There’s also this one girl named June. She’s a sophomore and she helps us with a lot of the sewing and alterations. I also have a friend named Dayne who helps me with a lot of the social media aspects. He’s been giving me ideas on how to gross on social networks. There’s four or five of us working on BLOK now.

“You have to defend your dream.” 12

FLASH (to Sabour): He mentioned that you’re his right hand man…what are your responsibilities as an integral part of the BLOK team? Sabour: I basically take care of the website. We share the responsibilities with social media. Sometimes I’ll work on designs; one of us will make a design and then once we’re together, we decide if we want to use it or not.

would you like to see buying your products?

Qazi: Establishing a loyal consumer base is difficult. A lot of people that we know, like friends and family, have supported us. Through them, more people have learned about our products. We’ve spread the word at events like art galleries. There’s an upcoming fashion show at Carnegie Mellon and they’re featuring our line, so that’s really cool. Basically, we’re FLASH: Will your team expand as the line grows targeting high school and college kids, that’s our in popularity? demographic. The hardest part in attracting customers is keeping buyers engaged. We see Qazi: The fact that BLOK is such a small that people become more interested when we company is one of the reasons it’s so manageable invest more time in our designs. The more we right now. There’s a good number of us, so it’s share our story, the more they want to know easier to balance work. If Mohammed isn’t able about us. We recently launched a new site that to complete something, he just lets me know, and has a blog on it, so now, people don’t only go to I complete it. I think teamwork is the the site to buy our products; they go through the reason we’re getting so much done. Sometimes, blog, they see projects we’re doing, the changes you need to be careful when adding people to a we’re making, who we’re working with. team because not everyone is equally dedicated. Eventually, I want the website and the blog to We will be adding people in the future, but it’s a grow into a social network magazine—a lot of slow process. street wear companies do that to keep their customers updated on what’s new, what’s FLASH: How do you attract customers? Who

trying to organize our clothes by season, have lookbooks, and make everything look as professional as possible. FLASH: What are your long-term goals for the line?

happening with the culture of New York and the culture of fashion. FLASH: What’s the price range of your products? Qazi: Streetwear is pretty expensive, but we sell our shirts for twenty, our sweats—like hoodies— for $25, crewnecks for $35, hats for $20, and we also have beanies for $20. Our tote bags are $10. We want people to be able to afford BLOK; we always try to keep our high school and college demographic in mind. FLASH: Are you working on BLOK everyday? Sabour: At least one hour a day is dedicated to BLOK. We have to keep up with the social media, which is one of the most important things—just to let people know where we’re at. FLASH: As a pre-med student, how do you balance schoolwork and managing BLOK? Sabour: Everyday, I give myself about two hours to do work, or study. And then I give myself another two hours, which I divide between BLOK, and things like exercise…eating… sometimes (laughs). I try to be organized, write things out, and stay within my time limits. FLASH: Do you have plans to expand the line? Qazi: We’re already communicating ideas for the summer. We want to get a sports capsule where we release athletic products, like dry-fleece shirts, athletics shorts, and other athletic gear. We’re

Qazi: In a year from now, I’d like to have a steady customer base, a group of people who are passionate and believe in BLOK—that says a lot. Through those people, you can reach more people. That’s why we rely heavily on social media to gain momentum; we’re able to spread our ideas across the world very quickly. The best feat is having someone you don’t know buy your product—I think that’s the most amazing thing. So far, we’ve had people from Germany and the UK buy our products. It’s gaining traction, so it’s really cool. Sabour: For me, I think it’s really important to be creative. We’re trying to add new things to the line, like pocket tees that are hand-made. We’re trying to be different. FLASH: Do you see this line being apart of your future? Qazi: I’m confident that the line is going to grow into something more and I’m excited about that. We have a team that communicates well, so as long as everyone does their part, we can handle the responsibility, it’s manageable. It has been tough and strenuous at times, but it’s worth it. BLOK has been growing since day one, so I definitely think that it has a lot more potential. I want to see what happens.

I was frustrated with streetwear today; some of it is really strange. Certain clothing items are unique, but kind of outrageous, kind of weird.

Spring Fling: Six Spring 2014 Designer Collections to Fall Head Over Heels For BY MATTHEW HACKE

rom New York to Paris and London to Milan, the fashion capitals of the world delivered some superb collections last fall; collections that are already starting trends and showing up in stores just in time for spring. These six collections below- three men’s and three women’s- highlight not only the craft and artistry of designing clothing, but the plethora of blooming ideas and refreshing perspectives one has about springtime.

Ralph Rucci Designer Ralph Rucci’s astounding 64 look collection was anything short of a beautifully constructed work of art. Caught somewhere between a minimalist’s dream and a couture wonderland, the striking pieces were made of only the finest materials- python, organza, silk and gazar to name a few. The looks were bold and oozed confidence and sex appeal. Most of the dresses, blouses, skirts and jackets shown seemed as light, airy and crisp as a springtime breeze. One look included a black dress with iridescent spheres, while another included a bronze confection of a similar nature. If one thing is for certain, Rucci’s palate for the finer things in life was on display in his exquisite creations.

Balmain

Under the artistic direction of Olivier Rousteing, the men’s spring collection definitely proved to take inspiration from the ocean. The sleek looks included many stripes and nautical-themed garb. Sailor meets the French Rivera can sum up the entirety of Rousteing’s collection. Jackets with large, detailed metal buttons and glossy, black leather monkstrap loafers were cohesive staples throughout. Leather pants and bombers were aplenty as well. One striking look included a waist length collared jacket with a white sweater and loafers. Another looked included a black leather motorcycle jacket with Chanel-esque quilted boots with silver metallic toecaps. Ultimately, Rousteing’s designs reflected the wide-open seas, as well the wide-open possibilities that spring holds.

Tom Ford

Real men wear pink, at least according to designer Tom Ford. Palm Beach in the springtime- or anytime for that matter- sums up the floral and pastel colored men’s collection that design genius Ford created. His jackets, pants, velvet tasseled smoking slippers and loafers looked more like vibrant bouquets than anything else. Hints of lilac purple, hydrangea blue and carnation pink were blossoming throughout his pieces. These bold colors were paired with chrysanthemum white turtleneck sweaters. Other pieces included a gingham print dress shirt and tie paired with a cobalt gray suit jacket and slacks, as well as a tuxedo jacket with a floral pattern in a sea of blue tones. Ultimately, Ford’s collection was on par with the budding elements and nature of spring’s serenity and beauty.

Louis Vuitton

After 16 years with the famed French powerhouse, Marc Jacobs took one last bow as Artistic Director for Louis Vuitton. The show was a retrospective for Jacobs as everything from a carousel to a fountain -used in past shows- were on display one final time. Instead of a colorful and vibrant show though, Jacobs’ send-off had all the female models dressed in black, which matched perfectly with the darkly painted décor. While the presentation seemed mournful with the all-black theme, as well as it being Jacobs’ last show for LV, the clothing was anything but. Like showgirls ready to dance, the models in the 41 looks were the epitome of glitz and glamour. One piece included a shear jumpsuit with a Louis Vuitton graffiti print. Many of the other pieces included elaborate feathered headdresses, jewel encrusted blouses and crocodile leather handbags. While the show eventually faded to black, Jacobs’ legacy with the Parisian staple can only be described as bright and brilliant.

Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren’s men’s collection was quintessential Lauren: chic garments with a rugged, equestrian edge. His 27 looks offered something for every man at every stage in their life. From the outdoorsman to the Wall Street banker, Lauren covered all of his bases with his spring looks, but then again, who would expect anything less from a man who has been in business for over 47 years. One looked in particular seemed tailored to the collegiate set, which included a tweed blazer with a bright orange, cable-knit sweater effortlessly slung across the shoulders. A baby blue dress shirt, crested tie, sea foam green cuffed trousers and brown, suede loafers completed the look. Another look seemed fitting enough for a jaunt through Tuscan wine country or a 4th of July Bash on Martha’s Vineyard. The look included a simple blue blazer with a pale pink crewneck underneath, coupled with white trousers and brown leather loafers. All of Lauren’s pieces, past and present, are truly effortless and timeless; his spring designs were no exception.

Thom Browne

Who says you can’t wear white before Memorial Day? Not American designer Thom Browne. Known for his avant-garde aesthetic and keen eye, Browne’s spring presentation was a stunning portrayal of an unexpected and eerie place: an insane asylum. Female models walked slowly down a dimly lit runway, proving that the set itself was a theatrical experience. The completely white runway, walls and hanging mannequins mirrored a hospital of horror movie proportions. Browne’s muse, an Elizabethan clown, was flawlessly portrayed and executed by the models, particularly through the use of makeup. Their bright red pouts, white powered faces and crazy, gray spray-painted hairstyles really played up the theme. The main star of the show though was, of course, the clothes. Browne’s opulent designs seamlessly juxtaposed the hospital setting he created. Each look entailed intricate pieces that could easily be shown as an exhibit at the Met or the Louvre. One creation included a cropped jacket with subtle lace embroidery, finished off with pearl buttons. Another whimsical look entailed a white cardigan, a pleated, full-length skirt, and a stuffed animal cat draped in pearls as an accessory. Browne’s strangely enchanting show proved that, like the unpredictable springtime weather, fashion could take someone anywhere.

Coming out of the Closet…

Secrets of a Fashion Addict Revealed

BY JAISLEE FULLER

condition, it goes in the donation pile. Take your donations to the nearest Salvation Army; something worth very little to you may be very valuable to someone else. Another option is to sell lightly used items to a vintage store, such as Rare Vintage Inc. on 57th street in Manhattan. You may not make much of a profit, but you’ll get to explore unbelievable bargains while you’re there. Always start small when cleaning out a f you’ve ever come across a magazine spread of closet; focus on jewelry first. If you have any doubt about an accessory like a chunky bracelet, a celebrity’s closet, you probably wished that your closet could be just as fabulous. You may not or a bib necklace, try it on with a simple outfit. In a plain T-shirt and jeans, you can really have Kim Kardashian’s wardrobe, —unless you evaluate the stylistic value of jewelry. If the item are one ridiculously lucky girl—but with a few display tools and a little organization, you can get adds something special to your look, keep it. If your closet pretty close to celebrity- status. Follow it just blends in, put it in the donation pile. This these guidelines, and you can transform a boring strategy can be applied when going through various pieces of jewelry like necklaces, earrings, storage space into a fashion haven. and bracelets. For rings, take the time to try on Fashionistas dread weeding through cherished each. It’s best to do this with bare nails so you can fabrics and accessories, but the first step to a focus on the ring, just like you would focus on a fabulous closet is to clean. Every six months, roll necklace when wearing a plain outfit. Get rid of up your sleeves and sort through your prized rings that make your hands look unflattering-possessions with this in-mind: if you haven’t with the exception of those made from precious worn it in the last year, it’s more than likely that stones or metals. Even if a nice ring doesn’t fit, it’s you never will. Of course, every rule has an not always necessary to throw it out. Instead, you exception, this one being classic items; last season’s Céline sweater will eventually become vintage, so hold on to precious pieces from the past, especially designer looks. To avoid future regrets, create a special section in your closet for pieces in this category.

Begin the cleaning process by making room for two piles of clothing: one pile for donations, and one for trash (the “out pile”). If something has far too much wear and tear, it goes in the out pile; if an item is no longer in style, but is still in good

can bring it to a jewelry store to be sized, or trade it in at a pawnshop.

Great photos are to be found in Vogue, Instyle, and Lucky. Hang pictures with double-sided tape to avoid damaging closet walls. With high fashion Shoes tend to bruise easily, and sometimes they pictures surrounding you, you’ll feel like Alice in a can’t be bandaged up. Any pair that looks old, very fashionable Wonderland. If you have a lot of doesn’t fit, or doesn’t seem to “click” with your spare time on your hands, you may want plan out outfits has to go. You should sort through outfits and take photos of each. Put these pictures your purses in a similar manner. This can be in a binder that you can flip through; this allows heart-wrenching for some; we all have that pair of you to quickly select outfits. As exhausting as this stilettos we just like to look at, so if the item is near process may be, having a bunch of different outfits and dear to your heart, keep it—whether it’s in front of you at the same time lets you see all of wearable, or not. The same rules apply to clothes. your options. That way, you can combine Try on any clothing you’re unsure of, but if you individual pieces from separate looks and mix up look in the mirror and want to close your eyes, your everyday style. Similarly, magazine pictures toss it in one of the two “to-go” piles, based on its of celebrity outfits might inspire you to try a new condition. For old bras/underwear, (please) throw look. Collect pictures of outfit, hair, and makeup them into the trash pile. ideas, and keep separate binders for each. When you’re searching for the right first-date look, Now that you’ve cleaned out your closet, step two simply go to your bag-—or in this case “binder”— is to get organized! This will require some of tricks. organizational tools, such as shoe, bracelet, necklace, ring, and earring racks. Nail polish racks For fashion addicts, a closet is a special space, and are also handy for organization. Velvet hangers therefore, it must be kept in tip-top shape. can help you optimize your closet space. Prices Although a time-consuming and arduous process, for these items range from five to forty dollars on your work will pay off when you have an excuse Amazon.com. If you don’t want to pay for to refill your closet with fantastic new purchases. shipping, Bed Bath & Beyond has some great And who knows? Your renovated closet may even organizational tools all under one hundred dollars. give the Kardashians a run for their money. Being organized doesn’t have to be ridiculously pricey! As you now have more space from the cleaning out your closet, finding a place for your new tools shouldn’t be too difficult. Shoe racks fit easily beneath clothing and there are door racks for jewelry. Organizing your clothes and your shoes by color can work wonders for your closet— good ol’ ROY G. BIV (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet) comes in handy here. You can even organize according to the type of clothing, or accessory; place T-shirts together, jeans together, dresses together, and so on. Dedicated fashionistas may take organization as far as separating dressy and casual clothing. Another way to jazz up your closet is to decorate its walls with editorial photos from magazines.

Beauty

ne of the greatest things about the concept of beauty is that it can be seen and exemplified through anything. this issue’s beauty section is not defined by anything in particular—in fact it is a little bit of everything. From proper nail shape, to healthy remedies, to Daenerys Targaryen’s hair in Game of Thrones, this beauty section can only be defined by its reader. Flash wants to keep the term ‘beauty’ open to accept everything and not see beauty purely defined by the face. Perhaps the late poet Edgar Allen Poe says it best, “There is no exquisite beauty…without some strangeness in the proportion.” Something truly beautiful possesses uniqueness, and we believe the beauty in this issue is truly unique to that of others.Let this section open you to trying new things with beauty and to redefine the term with something you deem unique.

Which Nail Shape Is Best for You? BY JAISLEE FULLER

ach season there seems to be a new trend in nail shape, but sometimes it may not be the most flattering for your hands. Although it may be fun to try the latest and greatest for a while you should always know which shape works best on you. First letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s go over the basic nail shapes: oval, which is slightly long and narrow with a rounded tip; round, which is short and circular at the end; almond, which is oval-shaped with a pointy almost claw-like tip; squoval, which is a mixture of square and oval with a rounded off square tip, also long; and finally square, a classic shape that has sharp square corners. Now letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cover the qualities and perks of each individual nail shape. Oval is flattering on most people, and has a classy and sophisticated quality. Round will help to make a hand look more proportionate. Almond lengthens the appearance of fingers and is a bold, trendy look. Squoval is a great base to any nail color, and makes your hands stand out, as it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t quite as common as the other shapes. Square is a classic shape that makes your nails demand attention.

Now which shape is best for you? Short fingers go first, as that is the most difficult hand type to find a shape for. If you have short fingers with a short nail and wide nail bed, oval is best for you. Short fingers with short nails and a narrow nail bed demand round nails. A short finger with long nails and a wide nail bed looks best with squoval nails. And lastly for short fingers, a long nail with a narrow nail bed will be flattered most by an almond nail. For long fingers with short nails and a wide nail bed, oval is best for you. If you have long fingers with short nails and a narrow nail bed, you will want to go with an almond shaped nail. For those of you with long fingers, long nails, and a wide nail bed, squoval will be your most flattering shape. And lastly, long fingers with long nails and narrow nail beds will look the best with square nails. Always feel free to switch up your shape as often as you like. Just keep in mind which shape flatters your hands the most and try not to stray too far! This guide will lead you to beautifully manicured fingers.

Secret Natural Remedies

By: Leslie Sy & Danica Talon These natural remedies are sure to give you results.

Oil Pulling

he magic of coconut oil is no secret anymore. From using it to moisturize dry skin to cooking tasty stir-fried vegetables, there’s no wonder why people are grabbing jars off the shelves. Thing is, swishing it in your own mouth? First thought is: gross. The whole process seems questionable, at first. However, with all the fuss, it only seems proper to see what this oil pulling thing is all about. The morning routine is to wake up, take a teaspoonful of organic and unrefined coconut oil into the mouth, and jump back into bed to start checking emails or whatever you do in the morning. It’s ideal to swish the coconut oil in your mouth for about twenty minutes. Now, before the groaning or freaking out about the length of time, it really flies by if you keep yourself busy. After the time is up, spit it out into the trash (not down the drain!), and go brush your teeth. Within two days of starting, some serious changes are bound to happen. As the oil removes the bacteria and toxins, teeth become whiter and morning breath will be long gone. Many who oil pull also find themselves sleeping better throughout the night. Those who have trouble with eczema find that the coconut oil helps their condition overall. The number of oil pulling benefits goes on and on. This removing (or “pulling”) has been around for quite some time. One question: Why

Tea Tree Oil

The healing powers of tea tree oil have been known across Australia for centuries. It can help with all aspects of your life from itchy hair to treating cuts and wounds. The benefits are endless and it can help any and everyone. Tea tree oil is widely known in the beauty world for healing blemishes. It may seem unusual to be putting oil onto an infected area, but this natural ingredient is non-comedogenic and antimicrobial which means it will not clog your pores and will decrease the bacteria on the surface of your skin. Just add a few drops of it onto a cotton swab and before getting into bed, gently apply it to the affected area. When morning arrives, wash off the oil. In a matter of a few days, the tea tree oil will have cleared the pores from bacteria and the blemish will be gone. The natural oil is known for effectively killing bacteria with less irritation than most chemicals used on acne. Dry scalp and dandruff is another problem that tea tree oil is known for curing. It is recognized as a natural anti-fungal, even more effective than many overthe-counter prescriptions. Simply place a few drops into your shampoo and wash your hair as you usually do! The new concoction will be so clarifying that you will not have to wash your hair every day. There are a number of uses for tea tree oil and it is bound to fix almost any problem.

isn’t everyone pulling, yet?

Shannon Morrall/ A Rose with Thorns:

argaery Tyrell is much more than just her looks. This intelligent, young woman uses her charm and beauty to covertly gain power in Westeros. The pulled-back and intricate half updo emphasizes Margaeryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s captivating yet determined qualities.

MaryClare DeMenna (formal)/ Fierce Khaleesi:

hough living much of her life as a timid, meek girl, Daenerys Targaryen displays her natural gift of leadership when taken on the responsibility as queen. Her compassionate and confident attitude prove to be a strong advantage for her kingdom. The detailed hairstyle accentuate her strong, commanding attributes.

Sarah Lundell (casual)/ Mother of Dragons:

lthough a high position of power tends to demand for an unsympathetic and strongminded candidate, Daenerys Targaryen demonstrates that a leader can be both benevolent and relentless. The ethereal queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s braids compliment her affectionate traits.

Marisa Schmidt/ Lannister Lioness:

ersei Lannister, the ruthless queen of the Seven Kingdoms, cares for nothing but the dignity of the Lannister household. Pride clouds her judgement on everyone, even her own brother. The delicate braid contrasts with Cerseiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ferocious personality.

Joyce de Leon/ Lady of Winterfell:

s a mother, Catelyn Starkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only focus is on the wellbeing of her children and she will do anything to protect those of her blood. The simple, twisted half updo radiates Lady Starkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s maternal ways.

Radiant Orchid: Pantoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Perfect Pick BY FRANCES SOSA

n late 2013, the "world-renowned" color authority Pantone declared radiant orchid as the 2014 Color of the Year. At that moment, the pink-based purple became the center of upcoming trends in many creative industries. These industries include the fashion, graphic design, interior design and yes, cosmetics. In fact, cosmetic companies were quick to begin promoting their current or new radiant orchid color products. Sephora even came out with an entire cosmetic line centered on the color. However, when it comes to purchasing makeup, color selection is not something you can do on a whim. One wrong undertone and you can go from looking chic to looking "off." Luckily, this problem is not a concern with radiant orchid,

which makes it very unique. The color actually can work with all eye colors and skin tones! A bit of color theory is needed in order to understand radiant orchid's universality. Our brains process colors in a particular way, especially when they are placed side by side. Too many conflicting colors placed together in a chaotic way will stress out the eye and make you feel uncomfortable. For example, have you ever looked at a dress or a shirt with a crazy, colorful pattern and remarked that it looked too loud or busy? The combination of colors in those pieces most likely bothered your eyes and brain. However, there are some color combinations that are almost universally harmonious. These color

combinations include pairing your base color with both complimentary and contrasting colors. Complimentary colors are any colors that are within two to three color sections of your base color on the color wheel. Contrasting colors are those colors on the wheel that are directly opposite from your base color. Since radiant orchid is a purple, its complimentary colors would be various shades of blue, as well as some shades of red and dark oranges. The contrasting color would be green. Amazingly, all of these harmonious colors naturally occur within the spectrum of human eye color (brown is a dark red/ orange, in this case). Radiant Orchid, therefore, is the perfect color to use when trying to highlight or bring out any eye color. Hazel eyes, as a mixture of most eye colors, will also work well with radiant orchid. Those with gray eyes need not worry as well; their eyes are a neutral, allowing them to be harmonious with the color of the year as well as many other colors.

In addition to working with every eye color, radiant orchid also can work with every skin tone. This fact is due to the combination of its undertone and overtone. Radiant orchid is a cool purple, making it a great choice for those who have fair or cool-toned skin. Yet, its pink undertone is actually warm, allowing it to be worn by those with warm or olive undertones as well. Thus, all a consumer has to do is search for the shade of radiant orchid that is best suited for their skin type. In the case of fairer or cool-toned skin, these would be shades that lean more towards lavender. Those with warm or olive toned skin should look for pinker shades of radiant orchid. In the end, if you are looking for a bright color to wear this spring, try Pantone's radiant orchid. It's almost foolproof.

Culture

ulture encompasses many things—places, people, history, ideas, music, art, and rituals—and it is always changing. It is the multilayered aspect of culture that makes it so complex, but it is also what makes it so intriguing. New York City offers a culture all its own, perpetuated by its people. Whether it’s the people who ride the subway everyday to work or the people who gaze at the lights in Times Square, everyone who lives here or visits here perpetuates the intricate culture of the city that never comes to a standstill. We are continuously inspired to look at the various aspects of New York City’s culture in new ways, and we invite you to do the same.

It’s All About the Stage BY EMILY TANNER

“Theater is my temple and my religion and my act of faith. Strangers sit in a room and together and believe together.” –Harvey Fierstein

he Big Apple has always been known as a home to the art of the theater. People travel from all over the world to come to the greatest city on earth to experience performing arts of the highest caliber. Not all great shows are on Broadway, though! From the big well-known stages to the smaller hidden gems, great shows can be found all throughout the city in places you might not necessarily expect. Take a peak!

BIG IDEAS BIG STAGES Gershwin Theatre 222 W 51st St

Imperial Theatre 249 W 45th St

If you want to go big, Gershwin Theatre is the first place you should look. Gershwin seats 1,933 people, the biggest of any Broadway theater. Known for its showing of the huge hit Wicked, other big names have graced Gershwin such as Oklahoma!, Show Boat, Peter Pan, and Fiddler on the Roof.

This beautiful and classic theatre is located in Midtown West. Although seating is a bit cramped, this venue gives great views of the stage from almost any seat in the house. In 2008 Imperial ran Billy Elliot the musical, which achieved a box office record! Currently they are running a revival of Les Miserables. Opening in 1923, this place has a lot of history…and rumor has it that it’s haunted. Shhh!

Al Hirschfield Theatre 302 W 45th St

Longacre Theatre 220 W 48th St

This theatre—located in Hell’s Kitchen— was considered to be the most opulent and extravagant theater in all of Manhattan when it was built. Its current hit Kinky Boots has scored great reviews. Recent tenants include Elf the Musical, and How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying.

Fun Fact: This theatre was originally named after Longacre Square, the original name for what is now Times Square! Another cool fact, this stage was originally built by former Red Sox producer/manager H.H. Frazee. Longacre’s big production of the summer--Of Mice and Men—has been hugely successful, featuring James Franco, Chris O’Dowd, and Leighton Meester.

BIG IDEAS SMALL STAGES

The Brick 579 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn

Rattlestick Playwrights Theater 224 Waverly Pl

Seating only 70 people, this innovative and state of the art venue is housed in a literal formal auto-body shop and yoga center. Located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, most tickets are under $25 dollars and while it isn’t Broadway, shows are very inventive, being unique and creative in their own way. Note: go in with an open mind, this is not traditional theater and many shows are interactive with the audience.

Rattlestick is committed to holding plays in their venue that feature new and upcoming writers who might not have a chance to display their work otherwise. Their mission statement includes a quote by August Wilson which sums up their motive: “If you want to support a writer, produce the first five plays he writes.” Their recent showings of The Hilltown Plays by Lucy Thurber were a huge hit, with one of the plays Where We’re Born being a requirement for students to see in some Theater classes here at Fordham.

The Flea Theater 41 White St

Performance Space 122 150 1st Ave

Non-commercial, this “Off-Off Broadway” space was founded in 1966 to create “a joyful hell in a small space.” A former townhouse in TriBeCa, it is tight but cozy. Shows are small and unassuming but are frequently reviewed by big names such as the New York Times. It is definitely worth seeing a show here at least once before graduating.

This is an interesting one. Yes, Performance Space 122 (“P.S.” 122) used to be a former NYC public school! The upstairs “Cafeteria” and the downstairs “Gym” both hold shows of all differing kinds, from monologues, dances, to drag shows, even. In Gramercy, this off-Broadway space is affordable and distinctive.

Eight Places You Didn’t Know Existed In New York BY CELESTE RODRIGUEZ

Think you knew it all? We’re continuously surprised with how many new places we discover in NYC.

1. Governor’s Island

Manhattan and Staten Island aren’t the only islands in this city! Governor’s Island, located off the southern tip of Manhattan, is accessible by ferry in the warmer months of the year. It contains over 1,000 acres of park land and several formerly residential houses which are now open to the public. The island is perfect for picnics and other various summer activities. From RH: Southbound B or D train to 59th street Columbus Circle. Transfer to southbound 1 train to South Ferry. Catch the Governor’s Island ferry. From LC: 1 train to South Ferry and catch the governor’s island ferry.

2. The Bartow-Pell Mansion

If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about Bronx history, the Bartow-Pell Mansion is the perfect place to go! The mansion dates back to the early 19th century when Robert Bartow bought the land and lived there with his family. Now, the mansion is a museum that houses exhibits usually related to the history of the area. From RH: Eastbound Bx12 bus to Pelham Bay Park. Catch the W45 bus to the Bartow-Pell Mansion. From LC: Northbound D train to East Fordham Road. Transfer to the eastbound Bx12 bus to Pelham Bay Park. Catch the W45 bus to the Bartow-Pell Mansion. *note: MetroCards may be used on Westchester buses

3. North Brother Island

Though not legally accessible, the island, located between the Bronx, Queens and Manhattan, has a rich history. Throughout the years, it has been used as a quarantine site for a carrier of typhoid fever, a hospital for drug addicted teens, and currently, a nature preserve and bird sanctuary.

4. Inwood Hill Park

Tucked away in the northwestern corner of Manhattan, Inwood Hill Park is home to the boroughâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best hiking terrain. The park is one of the only areas in the city which is mostly untouched by colonization. While traveling through it, you can find intact caves which were used by the Lenape Native Americans. From RH: Southbound B or D train to 145th street. Transfer to northbound A train to 181st street. Walk west to the park. From LC: Take the northbound A train to 181st street and walk west to the park.

5. Queens County Farm

Situated in Glen Oaks, Queens, the Queens County Farm allows visitors to experience the countryside without leaving the city. The farm offers hayrides, berry picking sites, and a petting zoo. Every August, the farm hosts a Native American powwow which consists of a traditional dance competition and flea market from tribes across North and South America. From RH: Southbound 4 train to 59th st, transfer to the eastbound R train. Get off at Forest Hills. Eastbound Q46 bus to the last stop. From LC: Eastbound R train to Forest Hills and transfer to eastbound Q46 bus. Take bus to the last stop.

6. Demolition Depot

In the heart of Harlem, a quiet shop called Demolition Depot sells antiquated items. Their collection consists of everything from 19th century cooking appliances to entire interiors of demolished stores. In fact, there is a floor devoted nearly entirely to doors taken from deconstruction sites. From RH: Southbound 4 train to 125th street. Walk east along 125th st. Store is located between 2nd avenue and 3rd avenue on 125th street. From LC: Take N, Q or R train northbound to 59th street and Lexington Avenue. Transfer to northbound 4, 5, or 6 train and take it to 125th street. Walk east along 125th St. The store is located between 2nd avenue and 3rd avenue on 125th street.

7. New Roc City

Though not in New York City, New Roc City is situated just outside the Bronx. It has an Imax movie theater, a glow in the dark mini-golf course, a bowling alley, an arcade, and a bumper car rink. Contrary to what some might think, the center is used by people of all ages. From RH: Take Bay Plaza bound Bx12 bus to Pelham Bay Park. Transfer to northbound W45 bus and get off at New Roc City. From LC: Take northbound N, Q, or R train to 59th street and Lexington Avenue. Transfer to the Pelham Bay Park 6 train and get off at Pelham Bay Park. Take northbound W45 bus and get off at New Roc City.

8. The Paley Center For Media

The Paley Center is a media archive hub where visitors can browse and watch various television shows, advertisements, and other forms of media from throughout the years. The entrance fee is $8 for students. From RH: Southbound B or D train to 47-50th streets Rockefeller Center. From LC: Southbound B or D train to 47-50th streets Rockefeller Center.

Standing Against Modern Day Slavery BY LINETTE MUNOZ

Flickr photo by â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Campaign Designed To Drop Salesâ&#x20AC;?

merica is no stranger to slavery. From indentured servants in the middle colonies to the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, America has seen it all. A big problem, though, is that there is a lot America refuses to see. Many Americans believe that the end of the Civil War and the 13th Amendment ended slavery. Unfortunately, that's not true. There is a new form of slavery that is more deceptive and difficult to detect that is still extremely prominent in the world today, especially in America. This modern form of slavery is called human trafficking. It is the force, fraud, and coercion of people into performing work with little or no pay and with no way to escape without receiving harm, according to The Slave Next Door by Kevin Bales. There are many forms of human trafficking. The one with the fastest growing awareness is sex slavery. Victims of sex slavery are forced to perform sexual acts, against their will. There is also labor trafficking, in which people are coerced through violence to perform work in domestic settings, farms, clubs, restaurants, sweatshops, and many other places. There are ways, though, to counteract slavery. People can push for laws to be passed in order

to help authorities prosecute the traffickers and defend the victims. Also, awareness in hospitals and police precincts could help detect victims and bring them to safety. A prominent and growing way to counteract slavery is by controlling consumer demand and by not purchasing items that are manufactured by slaves. According to Fair Trade USA, fair trade is the term used to describe products that are made when both the manufacturer and the seller are treated fairly and given rights. Any product from food, to clothing, to flowers, to coffee can be made and purchased as fair trade. Luckily, New York City offers many ways to purchase fair trade products. For example, one can find fair trade chocolate at places like Amedei near Union Square, Madecasse Chocolate in Brooklyn, and Lucky Chocolates in the Hudson Valley. If you're itching for a coffee fix, Jack Stir Brew, La Colombe, Fairway's Coffee, and Brooklyn Roasting all sell fair trade coffee in and around the city. For groceries, Whole Foods and Trader Joes contain a large variety of fair trade products. For that late night sweet tooth, make sure your fridge is stocked with Ben & Jerry's fair trade and delicious ice cream. But even if you can't find time to go to any of these places, citywide farmers markets, usually sponsored by Greenmarket NYC, display farmers and their fair trade products. There are many ways to determine whether a product is fair trade. The first is to check for the fair trade stamp. There are a variety of stamps because of the multiple agreements set by multiple companies, and they all say fair trade on them. Also, there are Internet resources. Websites such as Fair Trade USA, Fair Trade international, and IMO- Fair for life and Fair Life are all, according to the NYC Fair Trade Coalition, organizations that certify fair trade.

The ReTurn of the Vinyl BY Kathleen-Mae Ramas

ith the rise of the digital age, it’s no surprise that the music industry is constantly evolving in rapid, forward motion. From cassette tapes, to CDs, to online streaming via Pandora and Spotify, music has become less and less of a physical medium and more of an intangible entity up in the clouds. However, what people didn’t anticipate was the rise of the one medium that seems to be holding its own against the digital giants: vinyls (cue the fanfare!). In the past year, vinyl sales have risen 32% as opposed to the long heralded CD, whose sales decreased by 14.5% in the last year. Artists support the vinyl’s rising efforts as well, considering Record Store Day on April 19th: where artists put out a few new songs exclusively on vinyl specifically for that day, vying to keep the art of vinyl - and the small businesses that carry them - alive. There’s something different about listening to an album on a record versus streaming it online, or popping in a CD. As Jack White once said, it’s the most romantic way to listen to music. Records re created as a labor of love; the artists etch their voice, their sound, into a physical piece of polyvinyl. The sound is richer, deeper, and much more raw - so much that you can feel the band or artist standing in your living room, singing personally to you. If that doesn’t give you any more reason to buy some, then maybe the awesome album cover art will. Record stores are a treasure trove of links to our musical past, and sifting through them assures that you will never leave empty handed. Grab some cash, lace up your shoes, and head out. You never know what you might find.

Westsider Records 233 W 72nd St New York, NY 10023

Located on the upper West side a couple blocks away from Fordham’s Lincoln Center campus, Westsider records is definitely geared more towards vinyl hunters who are really looking for the oldies. Just a warning—this is not the place to go if you’re looking for mint condition, new, and fresh-out-ofthe-studio records. You can definitely find some records in great condition, and if you’ve got the right interests in mind, it’ll be hard to walk away empty handed. The storefront could be hard to miss, so it would definitely fall under the definition of a quaint shop. Walking in and turning left, you’ll see a long room stacked with records on shelves all across the wall, as well as in islands of crates in the center of each section of the room. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about their extensive collection, which is rather impressive considering just how far back that collection reaches. After you’ve done your fair share of vinyl hunting for some of your more recent favorites and you’re ready to venture deeper into the history of vinyl and the artists associated with it, this is definitely the place to go.

Rebel Rebel Records 319 Bleecker St Manhattan, NY 10014

Another record store just a short stroll away from Bleecker Street Records. The collection is much smaller and a tad bit pricey, albeit the vast range of music they can fit into such a small space. If you’re willing to spend a little bit more, sifting through numbers upon numbers of cardboard boxes and the vinyls up on the wall will definitely be well worth your time. They’ve got everything you could possibly be looking for - especially if you’re into British bands and imports, then they’ll definitely have something you’ll want. With graphics and posters hung up from the ceiling and by the back door, they may not be large industrially sized, but they have the much more intimate feel of a festival-sized cardstock that makes it seem like you were on your way to that band’s concert that evening. If the only problem you’ll probably encounter is cramped spacing with other people who are just as excited about discovering a vinyl gem as you are, then it’s definitely worth the trip.

Rough Trade

64 N 9th St Williamsburg, NY 11249 Don’t let the hipster-ish location of Rough Trade throw you off: this place is worth the trip, without a doubt. Walking up to it, the storefront will look like an obscure recording venue that you aren’t allowed into, and the black brick and steel doors only work to fuel that assumption. But walk through the doors, and you’re basically in the Costco of new vinyls (and yes, it’s also in a giant warehouse). Quite the opposite to Westsider Records in uptown Manhattan, this store is definitely for those vinyl hunters looking for up and coming music, newly marketed, and straight out of the studios. You won’t find any obscure oldies here - the only ones you’ll find are more along the lines of Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin, and in brand new condition at that. Conveniently placed on a few of the pillars throughout the store, there are listening stations complete with headphones for shoppers to sample some of the newer artists, chosen by the staff, before deciding on a purchase. Speaking of staff, the workers there are incredibly friendly and eclectic, each unafraid to strike up a conversation on their own personal music interests. Unlike most record stores selling posters, canvas bags, t-shirts, etc., Rough Trade takes the experience a little bit further by also having a room equipped with amps and pedals for those who are inclined to shred a couple of notes on the guitars there. So, whether you’re looking for some new music, about to meet an artist that just so happens to be in town (Childish Gambino has been known to pop by here), or just looking to hang out with other musicians and avid music lovers, Rough Trade is the place for you.

Bleecker Street Records 239 Bleecker Street New York, NY 10014

A quaint looking storefront, the inside has a lot to offer. From CDs, T-shirts, posters, and of course the coveted vinyls, they’re nothing short of a mini vintage superstore. On the main level, you’ll find tables upon tables of new vinyl, as well as CDs and T-shirts by the front of the store. But, if you’re not willing to purchase a brand spanking new vinyl for over $30, then don’t fret. There are plenty of crates, as well as an entire section downstairs, of 99¢ vinyls to appease anyone’s tastes. Their CD/DVD collection is just as expansive as their vinyl collection, holding everything from The Rolling Stones to Coldplay’s Viva la Vida tour. Downstairs, their poster collection is also pretty impressive - huge, glossy pictures of pop culture, art, and bands of course. I was so close to walking out with a huge shot of the Led Zeppelin airplane photo. All in all, Bleecker Street Records is definitely worth a visit when you’re down in the West Village. But be kind to the record store cats you find lounging around. They’ve got their faces on the t-shirts.

People in the Big Apple BY JULIA CASEY The places…the food…the views…all these and more make up the city of New York. But what would this great big city be without its people? Contributor Julia Casey gives us her take on the people of NYC.

traveled to the west coast for the first time over spring break, and I soon discovered that it isn’t a myth: people are quite friendlier over there. Strangers smiled as they glided past us on the street, nodding politely at times, often bidding us good afternoon. Maybe it was because they knew that we were visitors to San Diego—or perhaps Californians acknowledge everyone that way? Regardless, though, it made us feel welcome. Here in New York City, people don’t normally do that. People here walk faster, talk faster, move faster—marching straight away with eyes fixated on some distant point ahead. Subway cars are typically stale with silence. Sidewalks traffic a steady influx of strangers who whiz past one another without so much as a quick hello, hoping to dodge a few seconds of that dreaded thing we call eye contact. But I find it hard to believe that all New Yorkers are unfriendly people unwilling to greet a stranger or hold a conversation on the subway. That is nothing more than an unfair stereotype—and I am just not buying it. As a “people person” in this big city of strangers, I keep my eyes out for friendly faces on the subway or on the street. Luckily, I’ve had success. I am still grateful to my “guardian angel” who ran me through Penn Station so that I didn’t miss my train. I am grateful to the couple on the subway who gently awakened me after I had dozed off on the way to Brooklyn. “Excuse me,” they whispered, “Is this is your stop?” It was, and I quickly hopped off, thanking them profusely. I enjoyed talking to the woman in Central Park who let me gawk at her delicate new baby girl. My gosh, she was cute, sitting pretty in her pink stroller. I enjoyed sharing a laugh with a man on Fordham Road after I tried (without success) to

hop over the slushy puddles that had accumulated on the street corner. And at Lincoln Center a few weeks ago, a woman walking three dogs (and holding a fourth) met my gaze and suddenly our faces formed huge grins. Seconds after she passed, she turned her head back around and shouted, “You’ve got a beautiful smile!” and I just melted. How kind! After a couple seconds I regained my composure and shouted back, “Thank you! Yours is beautiful too!” before the current of the crowd (and her dogs) tugged her along. Those are just a few encounters that have stood out in my memory. And interactions like those remind me that there are friendly people in every city—everywhere—not just on the west coast. There are friendly people right here in New York City, and it is up to each of us to be the person to say hello to a stranger or strike up a conversation on the subway. Because why not? Especially when there is a cute puppy or baby involved, making conversation is easy, and it can be fun. So let’s do more of it: let’s smile often and say HELLO. How hard can it be?!

Summertime Concerts and Festivals BY IRENE PATRON

taying in NYC this summer? Live close enough to visit? Let FLASH be your guide to the many concerts and festivals happening throughout the summer months. Central Park SummerStage Festival (Central Park, June-August): This summer-long music festival located in Rumsey Playfield has gone on since 1986. All events are free of charge, except for some benefit shows/concerts. The SummerStage Festival features various dance, poetry, and musical performances that all audiences will enjoy.

The Today Show Toyota Concert Series (Rockefeller Center, every Friday from May-August): GMA’s rival, The Today Show, also hosts summer concerts on Fridays during their live broadcast (7-9 AM). Previous performers include Maroon 5, John Mayer, and Lionel Richie. Their concerts are free as well!

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Good Morning America Summer Concert Series (Central Park, every Friday from May-August): ABC’s Good Morning America has hosted weekly summer concerts for the past five years at Rumsey Playfield during their live broadcast (7-9 AM). This year’s schedule has not been released yet, but previous performers have included Mariah Carey, Kenny Chesney, and Imagine Dragons. And the best part? The concerts are free!

BY KATHLEEN-MAE RAMAS

Fashion is arhcitecture: it is a matter of proportions. - Coco Chanel

Fashion is as profound and critical a part of the social life of man as sex, and is made up of the same ambivalent mixture of irresistible urges and inevitable taboos. - Rene Konig

â&#x20AC;&#x153;And the oligarchic man is in his turn third from the kingly man, if we count the aristocratic and kingly man as the same.â&#x20AC;? - Platoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Republic

“The loneliest moment in someone’s life is when they are watching their whole world fall apart, and all they can do is stare blankly.” —Nick Carraway, The Great Gatsby

All truly great thoughts are conceived while walking. - Friedrich Nietzsche 72

Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.

- Soren Kierkegaard

FORDHAM APOCALYPSE Only attitude matters, as urban environments and luxury sportswear collide in an apocalyptic future

Styled, Directed, & Photographed by: Suzette A. Dorrielan Make-Up by: Frances Sosa Model: Isabel Brown

Our Models

Rise of the Comtemporary CounterCulture Margaret Sullivan Chase Stevens

New Kids on the BLOK Brint Benson Nadira Jackson

Game of Thrones Hair Shannon Morrall Maryclare Demenna Sarah Lundell Marisa Schmidt Joyce De Leon

Radiant Orchid: Pantoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Perfect Pick Krystin Vitale Sarah Antony Sarah Davis Vanessa Agovida Paulette Thomas Sai Boyella

Urban Streetstyle Photoshoot Darcy Mcguire Vanessa Agovida Nicole Kirsch Joe Russo John McGovern

Fordham Apocalypse Isabel Brown 90

Credits

Rise of the Comtemporary CounterCulture Margaret Sullivan & Chase Stevens: models’ own clothing

New Kids on the BLOK Brint Benson & Nadira Jackson: BLOK Clothing

Urban Streetstyle Photoshoot Nicole Kirsch : Shirt and Skirt- “In God We Trust” shirt and skirt, model’s own jeans Darcy Mcguire & Vanessa Agovida: both outfits by “In God We Trust” Joe Russo & John McGovern: both outfits were models own All accessories provided by the models.

Fordham Apocalypse Clothing & Accessories: “Pixie Market (PM)”, Suzzette Dorrielan, model’s own