Whisper: April 2016 Mini

the mini whisper

MODA the mini JENNIFER ANDERSON Editor-in-Chief

Deputy Editor Emma Leuman Art Director Alexandra Folino Assistant Art Director James DePolis Photography Director Andrew Salewski Creative Directors Kelsey Daykin Financial Director Reilly Koch Web Master Jameson Zaballos Fashion Editor Maya Campbell Lifestyle Editor Meg Rotter Culture Editor Haley Nippert Arts Editor Margaret Duffey Mens Editor Sawyer Olson Staff Writers Maame Brewoo, Alexa Carlson, Amber Carlson, Haidee Chu, Katie Gans, Claire Hornacek, Darby Hoffman, Linh Nguyen, Taylor Palmby, Eva-Delilah Wieland, Jameson Zaballos Photographers Alexandra Folino, Morgan Jameson, Andrew Salewski, Moriah Ziman Models Demi de Block, Sara Schuld, Liv Schrieber, Keagan van Eperen Makeup and Hair Alexa Carlson, Michael Klimmeck Special thanks to: The Rock Agency

on the COVER:

Demi de Block and Keagan van Eperen photographed by Moriah Ziman Makeup by Michael Klimmeck 2 | March 2016

Jen’s current guilty pleasures

letter from the editor: Sometimes the things we keep cooped up inside us are the things that define us the most. One time, I had a professor ask my class what our “guilty pleasure TV show” was. At the moment, I quickly blurted out Sex & the City. But, that’s not really a secret to be embarrassed of. So here I am, about to pour out all my secrets in a small letter from the editor (which I know all of you skip over anyway). Let me scream out my secrets for the world to hear instead of keeping them hidden inside me, and uttered as a whisper in passing: I love Star Wars: from the moment I was born to the time I dressed up as Queen Amidala for Halloween to this very moment as I sit on my bed writing this letter in my Star Wars fuzzy pajamas. My guilty pleasure TV show is not Sex & the City, but it’s probably one of those trashy reality competition shows about

tattoo artists or, let’s be honest, Hannah Montana. There’s nothing in the world I love more than the first few moments after I wake up, grab breakfast and coffee and just sit in bed alone with my thoughts. I talk about YouTube gurus as if I personally know them and they’re my friends (i.e. “OMG that is SO Tati or “Oh Kathleen, that IS ‘ehspensive’”).

The only thing that can truly calm me down is a hot shower or hot bath. Don’t ask me why - hot water is just soothing to my mind and body. Although I love making macarons and talk about how much I eat them, I absolutely HATE macarons that have complicated flavors like PB&J or Marshmallow Chocolate Coconut. I like the classic vanilla bean or coffee. I like to pretend my life is clean and organized, when in reality, I just stuff everything I don’t want to deal with in my laundry basket so people don’t see how much I’m a slob.

So there you go: a collection of my secrets, now out in the open for everyone to see. But, it’s not just me. This issue screams out what used to only be murmured: from fashion’s piece on guilty pleasures to culture section’s staff writer Haidee exploring the notion of colorblindness. Even lifestyle section staff writer Linh looks into the recently trending phone app “Whisper” and how people are using it to share their dirty laundry.

Sit back, grab a coffee and enjoy reading all our best kept secrets.

Cheers,

March 2016 | 3

BEHIND TH SHEER CU

BY MAYA CAMPBELL, FASHION EDITOR AND AMBER CARLSON, FASHION WRITER LIV SCHRIEBER PHOTOGRAPHED BY MORGAN JAMESON Nudity is ubiquitous in the fashion industry. A bare breast here and a booty cheek there on the Alexander McQueen runway is nothing to write home about anymore. The very moment the industry transitioned from knee-length tweed Chanel suits circa 1950 to Chromat fashion week 2015 is difficult to pinpoint. However, we can definitely identify the recent ideological shift between clothing as body-area coverage and clothing as body-adornment (not that the two are mutually exclusive). Contemporarily, high fashion garments featuring sheer fabrics are made with a naked body in mind as if nudity is woven into them in the same way a collar is. We’ve grown to appreciate the beauty in how breasts fall and shift beneath crinoline and crystal organza within the industry, but how does fashion’s infatuation with sheer and nude translate to us laymen?

Enter: the “naked dress.” Not that the Kim Kardashians and Beyoncés of the world are your average people, but for those who aren’t glued to their computers clicking “refresh” on Vogue Runway’s site during fashion week, sheer, red carpet looks are often some people’s first point of contact with the revealing trend. Daring looks like Kim K in Roberto Cavalli and Jennifer Lopez in Versace at the 2015 Met Gala covered just enough to bare some resemblance to new-age modesty.

Unsurprisingly, the looks were met with harsh critiques about their parenting and their poor use of public platforms. Still, most of the fashionloving public applauded the stars for making bold statements by embracing their bodies.

It’s poignant to note that had these ladies not been multimillionaire public figures in the entertainment industry, the critiques received may have been many times worse. In fact, our favorite celebs are often given a pass when it comes to fashion while, in schools, young girls are told that their bodies 4 | March 2016

HE URTAIN are a distraction. Perhaps that is because we view celebrities as spectacles and avant-garde fashion looks tend to keep the public interested (see the first half of lady Gaga’s career). But behind the flashing lights of paparazzi cameras, press, and glamorous events is a lesson or movement that is bigger than Kim K’s booty or the reach of Beyoncé’s influence.

Though, let’s just admit it: we’re tired of the naked dress trend; sheer items bring with them an appreciation of the human form. The reason we’ve seen it in wrap dress form for Diane Von Furstenberg fashion week 2015 and reincarnated as a bodysuit for Alexandre Vauthier fashion week 2016 is, because the sheer trend allows us to look at the human form behind a thin veil and celebrate its beauty. It also reminds us that clothes are not meant to hide our bodies, but rather they adorn them – whether we’ve recruited wool or silk chiffon to do the job.

While many people are quick to dismiss the sociopolitical themes that resonate in the fashion industry, rebellious movements and the garb that came with them in the 70s and the use of sheer to dress (or undress) the naked body shows that fashion always has a greater meaning (queue Miranda Priestly monologue here).

We live in a time when the conversation about body positivity is always prevalent and anti-oppression movements like the Free The Nipple campaign has taken flight. Women are encouraged to embrace their body size, color, and all “imperfections” that come with it. Why, then, are some clothes disparaged due to the translucency of their fabric? With the sheer trend, the fashionable is both personal and political. What’s better to write home about than that?

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COLOR BLINDNESS: BLIND TO RACE? OR BLIND TO RACISM?

BY HAIDEE CHU, CULTURE WRITER

It’s been discussed in platforms as trivial as Yik Yak to those as eminent as the New York Times.

You’ve heard or perhaps witnessed the debate in one way or another at one point in your life— is colorblindness simply an ideology that advocates for love and equality, or is it yet another form of racism in disguise? While love and empathy are certainly important in subduing racial injustice, it is nothing near an adequate solution to eradicate racism. Count the times you have heard people saying “race shouldn’t matter; we all belong to one race— the human race.” Then count the times you have actually heard people talking about race, or the number of times people are made fun of because they are too “PC” (politically correct) for talking about race— see the problem?

As a country, we are so afraid to talk about race, because it forces us to admit that we don’t live in a post-racial society as we would like to believe.

While this seemingly benign colorblind ideology is used mostly to express repugnance against overtly racist practices that occurred in the past, it also vanquishes racial conversations that are necessary in our society today. The ideology is based on the presumption that we live in a utopia where race doesn’t affect the lives of people. It undermines the fact that our lives and interactions are, in fact, inevitably affected by racist attitudes that permeate society. The experiences of people of color are intricately linked with the color of their skin. They’re more likely to face job and housing discrimination, according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development.1 Federal studies find that Black students are suspended and expelled at three times the rate of white students, and Native American students are also disproportionately affected.2 One can even take recent incidents of racial bias on our own University of Wisconsin-Madison campus for example, like the disruption of a Ho-Chunk healing ceremony for victims of rape by

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individuals who thought it acceptable to start yelling stereotypical “war chants” heard in films.

While these cases are not necessarily indicative of who we are as individuals or as a community, it is evidence that in the grand scheme of things, race does influence how others are treated.

So, back to the abovementioned debate, is colorblindness simply a more clandestine form of racism? The answer is yes.

It was only half a century ago when legal segregation exclusively based on race existed. While the Civil Rights Act rendered racial segregation illegal, this form of discrimination continues to persist in many realms of our society. Institutional racial bias continues to be perpetuated in the housing market, employment opportunities, education, the criminal justice system, and more. According to the Economic Policy Institute, public schools are, by racial population, more segregated now than they were 40 years ago as a result of self-segregation in neighborhoods.3 Research at the University of Chicago revealed that white Americans with a criminal record are more likely to be hired than Black Americans without one, despite having similar levels of education.4 And these are only some of many of the statistics which reveal that racial inequalities continue to be prevalent today. To say that race doesn’t matter and that “we all share the same starting line,” really, doesn’t pertain to

reality. In this way, colorblindness acts as merely a more covert and obscured form of racism, in which the struggles facing people of color are simply ignored. It makes discourse regarding racial disparities and injustice more difficult and evasive than ever, because it is predicated on the notion that racial inequities do not exist and therefore silences potential conversations and promotes stagnancy in racial relations.

The ideology of colorblindness also silences the voices of those who have experienced racial discrimination.

Often times, they are found to bury their feelings because they presume that their experiences aren’t valid or are “natural occurrences” that are not going to be addressed. For instance, after an incident on the University of WisconsinMadison’s campus targeting First-Wave scholars, WKOW reported that Francisco Velazquez, a friend of the victim, said, “we thought, maybe we’re overreacting…maybe this isn’t as big a deal as we think it was.” 5 However, even those who freely express their indignation can easily find their voices muted by those who cling to the uplifted illusion of a racially-impartial utopia. Starting from 2013, many active Black American communities have been participating in the “Black Lives Matter” movement, only to find their voices overshadowed by those claiming “All Lives Matter.” The voices that were seeking to raise public awareness about the severity of racial police brutality and racial profiling in light of multiple fatal shootings of unarmed, AfricanAmerican men are then squelched by those who

seek to ignore the fact that race affects people disproportionately. Colorblind notions, such as the idea of “All Lives Matter,” fundamentally ostracize racial and ethnic minorities by preventing the issues facing them from being addressed, leaving them helpless and vulnerable.

The toxicity of colorblindness, however, is not only prevalent in institutional and social settings, it transcends beyond the limits of institutions to invade ethnic minorities in the most personal ways. Just like gender, sexuality and socioeconomic status, race is, among many other things, a fundamental and invaluable component of our identity. To overlook such an indispensable part of one’s identity is to almost void his or her identity entirely. To deprecate and to repudiate the importance and value of race, a central part of one’s identity by claiming colorblindness is then perhaps a little offensive and insensitive, to say the least.

While much progress has been made since the Civil Rights Era, to say that we live in a world where lives are disencumbered from the burdens of racial injustice is perhaps not only a little premature, but also operating on racist notions.

It is impossible to sever the present we live in from the history of our past. Racial disparities existed then, and they continue to affect the present. We must not let nominal tokens of racial triumphs blind us from seeing the true colors of racial issues. Race is not an innately ugly concept, and it should not be made into an ugly one either. Cultural and racial differences exist— some fragilely beautiful, others not so much.

Regardless, they demand to be seen, recognized and acknowledged. If we lose sight of the ways in which the complexity of the racial world affects us, we will not only be colorblind, but also truly blind to the world.

1. portal.hud.gov 2. ocrdata.ed.gov 3. Rothstein, Richard. “For Public Schools, Segregation Then, Segregation Since: Education and the Unfinished March.”

4. www.nytimes.com 5. www.wkow.com images courtesy of creative commons

March 2016 | 7

W H O I S DIOR?

it possible to fully recover and continue to leave a strong impression in the upcoming fashion weeks? Some critics, mostly those in the industry, can let their opinion on the designer overshadow the actual quality of the designs. Yet, Fashionista.com took off their Raf Simons sunglasses and tweeted: “Dior without Raf Simons is still Dior, and its fall 2016 collection lived up to our expectations of the brand.”

Women’s Wear Daily wrote that the collection is “more placeholder than manifestation of creative vision.” I agree with WWD and feel a little bored by Dior’s latest: a lot of coats, pencil skirts, suits, and more coats, but it is possible to impress the critics and produce quality work after a creative metamorphosis.

cosmopolitan.com

BY KATIE GANS, FASHION WRITER So, if Christian Dior is dead, who is Dior? Although the label of a design is often one of its most seductive qualities in fashion, the real masterminds behind these high-fashion houses are the creative directors. Some of the most luxurious brands we covet today, such as Dior, Lanvin and Balenciaga, recently underwent some serious creative restructuring after the departures of their iconic creative directors. The retirement of one creative director drives the need for a new one and stirs up speculation surrounding the next artistic director almost immediately after their last bow: Will the next in command uphold the integrity of the brand? What will be the biggest change?

Does a new creative mastermind mean a new [insert brand name here]? Transitioning creative directors is kind of like buying a car without test-driving it; you either drive in style and safety (although Anna Wintour, editor in chief of American Vogue, loves a good risk on the runway), or you crash and burn.

Raf Simons ran the house of Dior as the creative director from 2012 until 2015. Simons’ minimalist yet bold collections since April of 2012, credited with modernizing the label for Dior, are praised time and time again. The industry anticipated Simons’ departure for some time, and although a label such as Dior prepares to restructure, is

The creative transition of Lanvin recently crashed, burned, and led to some pretty catty remarks. After Lanvin forced out Alber Elbaz, their creative director for the past fifteen years known for his elegant, draped designs, the label suffered some major backlash on the runway. Some of the headlines after the debut of the first collection without Elbaz included: “Everyone Is Appalled By How Trash Lanvin Is Without Alber Elbaz” and “Everyone Who’s Anyone Hates the New Lanvin.” Is this bitter response a result of the stigma around creative directors leaving, or do the new designs really fall short of being fashion week worthy? Chances are, it is a combination of the two, but there are several cases of labels continuing to rule the runway after parting ways with their creative director. Alexander McQueen, the label, never lost sight of Alexander McQueen’s dark and lustful vision after his death in 2010. Sarah Burton, current creative director for the label, stunned the audience with her Fall 2016 Readyto-Wear collection full of dreamy silhouettes and dark femininity.

When creative directors end the envied relationship with their label, we often see the designers put their newfound “free time” into their own, self-titled brand. For example, Alexander Wang’s name is stronger than ever in the fashion industry after he left Balenciaga last year in order to pursue his label, Alexander Wang. Wang’s namesake brand, which recently revealed scandalous, gothic, yet preppy looks that are right on trend with current streetwear, truly finds a chic collision between glamorous and gothic. And while Balenciaga sparked some major moments on the runway in the hands of Wang, his potential seems much greater for his own collection. Will we see the same with Raf Simons?

His lustrous designs for Dior stunned us, but perhaps he is saving the best for himself.

Overall, it really is an unpredictable hit or miss when a label switches creative directors. Some shows, such as McQueen and Dior, keep a label’s authentic vision alive, while others, such as poor Lanvin, put it to rest. Although we hate to admit that creative directors eventually must move on to bigger and better things, I have to ask: what’s better than Dior, Raf ?

8 PERFUMES AND COLOGNES TO GET YOU READY FOR SUMMER With summer just around the corner, it may be time for to freshen up your scent! Here are some light, sunny fragrances that embody that light, carefree spirit of summer.

BY CLAIRE HORNACEK, LIFESTYLE WRITER PHOTOGRAPHED BY ALEXANDRA FOLINO, ART DIRECTOR

Michael Kors Coral Floral and citrusy, this bright perfume has an air of mystery that helps it effortlessly transition from day to night. sephora.com

Flora by Gucci With fresh lime and peony, this flirty scent sparkles with youth and romance. Wear this to a summer wedding and maybe you’ll find the one too! sephora.com

Jimmy Choo The notes of pear and orchid in this scent evoke the image of a luxurious, green garden. This scent is perfect for a relaxed summer brunch. slimages.macyassets.com

Marc Jacobs Daisy Clean and feminine, Daisy manages to capture a bright, fruity and floral scent while maintaining deeper notes of vanilla and musk. images.bloomingdales.com

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Prada Sport Luna Rossa Citrus and ginger give this scent a bright, clean smell, perfectly capturing that effortless summer vibe.

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Gentlemen Only Givenchy Light mandarin and darker woodsy notes make this cologne ideal for a summertime bonfire. sephora.com

Davidoff Cool Water Cool, refreshing mint and lighter floral notes energize this lush, green scent. Wear this cologne to captivate the crowd as you stroll around the local farmer’s market. parisgallery.com

Versace Man Eau Fraiche With dazzling lemon and lime as well as deeper notes of cedar, Versace Man will awaken that lighthearted spirit of summer. cdn.shopify.com

March 2016 | 11

TRENDING: TRENDING: WARM WEATHER UPDATES

BY ALEXA CARLSON, FASHION EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Spring has sprung. Though the first thing that comes to mind when we think of spring trends is florals (sorry, Miranda Priestley), there is much more to spring wardrobes than pretty blooms‌

Clockwise from top: Saint Laurent Crossbody Bag $1,684 Gianvito Rossi Heels $900 Sans Souci Laser Cut Skirt $23 Lucky Brand Booties $129 Wearall Dress $39 Aquazzura Heels $785

Clockwise from top: Kate Spade Earrings $38 Steffen Schraut Shirt $277 ROMWE Crop Top $29 Topshop Bag $30 | H&M Shirt $18 | Dailylook Bag $55

A TOUCH OF SUEDE This soft leather is the perfect way to add some western or boho influence to an outfit. In a rich caramel, it warms up any color palate and the supple texture adds dimension. A laser cut suede skirt gives a new twist to eyelet lace, and a suede dress works well for springtime before temperatures rise too high.

MAKING ME BLUSH Not only is this popular hue a perfect springtime pastel, but it is also one of the Pantone colors of the year. The light shade pairs well with denim for casual looks and is extra fresh with white as well.

Incorporate two or three blush pieces for an on-trend monochrome look.

Clockwise from top: Rebecca Minkoff Backpack $395 Dolce & Gabbana Backpack $1,238 | Michael Kors Bag $298 | Michael Kors Backpack $298 Adidas Backpack $32 Vera Bradley Backpack $98

GET PACKIN’ Warmer temperatures mean more exploring and moving around. A posh backpack is perfect for on-the-go spring days.

From sporty nylon to boho fringes and pretty pastels, there’s a backpack for everyone.

I SPY… The trench coat is a classic that will never go out of style. Try a reinvented trench for spring, whether it is flowy, pastel or sleeveless. Look for a muted hue like blush or sky blue to liven up the structured coat or find a trench in satin or lace for a feminine spin on the military-inspired look.

Clockwise from top: Coach Satin Trench Coat $595 H&M Trench Coat $60 White House Black Market Sleeveless Trench $170 | John Lewis Trench Coat $180 | J. Crew Trench Coat $468 H&M Trench Coat $60

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SWORN TO

SECRECY Whisper. It is not always necessary to raise our voices to communicate our thoughts. When we reveal our secrets, our innermost passions, we do so in a guarded manner: lowering our voices so that our listener is beckoned closer. We share a bond with those we whisper to, a friendship forged on the syllables that escape our lips. Will these confidences ever be shared? Never. This bond, and these secrets, will last a lifetime.

Keagan van Eperen and Demi de Block from The Rock Agency Photographed by Moriah Ziman Makeup by Michael Klimmeck Directed by Reilly Koch, Clarke Smith and Moriah Ziman Creative Director: Kelsey Daykin

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FLORAL DRESSES | KIMCHI BLUE BOOTS | MODEL’S OWN HEELS | MODEL’S OWN

NUDE TANK & BLACK TANK | ONE CLOTHING

STYLE ABROAD

MEN’S FASHION IN PARI

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JAMESON ZABALLOS, MENS WRITER

I step out of my French apartment and into the streets of Paris, having just put together one of my usual killer cardigan-OCBD-tie combos, oozing confidence in the masterful layering I’ve created. As soon as I reach the metro, however, I’m struck by a sense of standing out in an obvious way. I haven’t said a damned word and these people already can tell I’m obviously not from around here? How are they so smart? Well, as it turns out, as always, fashion tells more about you than what you buy and what you think looks good. It seemed like I hadn’t been observant enough on my way over from the airport, because no one wears ties casually in Paris.

Everyone thought I was British. Sure, every lawyer and businessman has their suit-and-tie garb, but a student? Who did I think I was? I had just assumed that, like my bank account and terrible French accent (it hasn’t gotten any better either), my preppy style would automatically transfer overseas to another similar culture. As it turns out, since that fateful day, I haven’t used a single one of the dozen ties I brought. So what’s with the massive difference? It’s more than just a difference in opinion, truth be told.

Let’s broaden the scope a little. Famous menswear designers from America. Go. Calvin Klein, Tom Ford, and perhaps the most famous, Ralph Lauren.

Ralph, for example, is extremely well-known (and copied) for his classic pieces. Any Ralph Lauren outfit in his latest RTW show will serve you well for, probably, the rest of your life. They just don’t go out of style. They are what style was founded on. Still, there’s not a massive amount of deviation from what works. I’ve never watched a Ralph Lauren men’s show and thought “I have genuinely never seen that before.” And that sentiment permeates in the

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streets. On the other side of the coin, when we think of famous French designers, we have Dior, Saint Laurent, Balmain: completely different from the classic, preppy style of Ralph. My jaw has dropped for nearly every show from one of those designers.

There’s always something that completely deviates from the norm. They don’t just follow trends, they give them.

You may be thinking “Yeah, okay, nice cherrypicked example, but what about Tom Ford? He’s fashion-forward and American!” Great question.

Tom Ford (born and raised in the USA) grew tired of American fashion after seeing what it was. In one of his New York Times interviews, Ford said, “If I was ever going to become a good designer, I had to leave America. My own culture was inhibiting me. Too much style in America is tacky. It’s looked down upon to be too stylish. Europeans, however, appreciate style.” I tend to agree. For men, at least, the culture seems to revolve around following styles or sticking to tried-and-true pieces that will always, always work (see Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Brooks Brothers, Perry Ellis, Nautica…) We are seeing a change with designers like Alexander Wang and Rick Owens, but still the classic symbol of the American menswear designer rests squarely on the shoulders of Ralph Lauren. That’s why college campuses seem to alternate between casual combos (the classic sweatpants and sweatshirt look or the jeans and flannel uniform) and preppy standards, like v-neck sweaters and button-ups. Those are pretty normal, but even the dressed-up ivy-league inspiration can draw the inevitable question of, “Why are you looking so fancy?”

D:

IS

March 2016 | 23

Jameson at the Louis Vuitton Foundation and on his travels to Florence, Italy In France, it’s more progressive. You can wear a tie if you want, but it’s almost too safe of a decision to make, and it restricts your outfit to revolve around something that can accommodate the tie.

Everyone is wearing whatever the heck they want here, and they’re more confident in doing so. If you’re still skeptical, then let’s just look at what I’ve found in the streets. I took ten minutes in Paris’ 4th arrondissement and snagged as many photos of willing French “models” in the streets as I could.

Nary a tie in sight, of course. Let’s just take a closer look at what’s different here.

First and foremost, it is absolutely essential to at least own a few scarves. Function is secondary to form here, but they also appreciate the extra functions of a messenger bag, for example. I have hardly seen any backpacks here (save for the Supreme stans). It seems everyone prefers a leather or canvas messenger bag with a matching pair of leather gloves. Back in the motherland, on campus, a scarf for men is primarily to keep warm. Ditto for the gloves. Backpacks are in abundance because they’re easy to take around and can hold a ton of stuff, which is fine. I’ve seen plenty of outfits on campus that forget the extra accessories and still make me think “I wish I had everything you have.” Madison campus fashion is no laughing matter.

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Here in Paris, however, they’re much more comfortable deviating from the norm. I’ve seen countless outfits that made me question my entire wardrobe because I had never thought that way about clothes. They love playing with the silhouette more here. America’s fits are pretty trim, of course, but they teeter on the edge of boxy at times, and it’s more about the clothing wrapping around the body as opposed to adding an extra dimension of a long topcoat or a scarf that just drapes instead of keeping you warm. Skinny pants (not just jeans) are everywhere. North Face is almost nowhere in sight, instead being substituted for three-button wool topcoats that reach almost to the knees. That is, of course, if there’s a need. If not, your standard unstructured blazer will do just fine. What’s more, this is what is completely “normal” at the schools.

No one ever asks “Why are you so dressed up?”

If American men’s fashion is the movie equivalent of Batman (a safe bet, tried and true, but something we’ve seen before), then French men’s fashion could be likened to Deadpool; new, fresh, and a gamble, but a gamble that gives us direction. I feel like I can truly wear whatever the heck I want here, and sure, I can do that back home (and believe me, I plan to), but here it feels more like what I’ve found college to be; everyone’s doing the “same thing” but taking their own path in doing it.

BEING MINDFUL:

Image by Viktor Hanacek

LEARNING TO SILENCE YOUR MIND & SURROUNDINGS

BY DARBY HOFFMAN, LIFESTYLE EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

The rush of a work, school and social life mix can be soothed by simply taking a moment to stop, breathe and appreciate the moment.

Finding ways to quiet our busy minds can be difficult as college students. One of the main components of our studentstatus is planning (read: worrying) for the future. Pair this with the level of FOMO every social media user endures, and you are left with an unhealthy level of emotional and physical distress.

Practicing mindfulness can be the first step in counteracting these seemingly innate thought patterns.

Initially, mindfulness can be difficult to grasp, because it is a rather abstract concept. When working towards a more restful mind, it is important to first understand the basics. With roots in Buddhism, mindfulness has gradually shifted towards a secular practice which intentionally focuses on and appreciates the present. Intent is key in distinguishing mindfulness from basic awareness. WildMind.org, a Buddhist meditation site, describes mindfulness as, “paying attention on purpose.”1 While being simply aware takes little effort or thought, being mindful consists of conscious awareness and deliberate observance.

The extensive physical and mental benefits of mindfulness have fueled its integration into mainstream medicine.

On top of improving a person’s ability to engage with and enjoy life, practicing

mindfulness can help alleviate stress, gastrointestinal difficulties, heart disease, blood pressure, issues with the immune system, chronic pain and sleep ailments2.

practice to get yourself comfortable with the habit. However, by sticking with meditation, you should find yourself more able to focus over time.

On the mental health side, mindfulness can help with depression, substance abuse, eating disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, improving focus and enhancing relationships. Additionally, research has shown that mindfulness increases gray brain matter in areas corresponding to learning, memory, empathy and emotional regulation2.

Overall, mindfulness incites acceptance of a person’s present position. Not only can the practice be utilized while meditating, but also in everyday settings.

No matter what the occasion, simply utilizing all of your senses to experience one task at a time allows you the same benefits as formal meditation. The key is to fully immerse yourself in the activity at hand and remain conscious without letting distractions of the past or future hinder you. Other mindfulness techniques include body sensations, sensory, emotions and urge surfing.

Depending on the individual, one method may be easier to utilize or more beneficial than another.

By practicing a basic mindfulness meditation, anyone can begin experiencing these benefits. To start, sit yourself in a comfortable position on a chair or the floor. Close your eyes and attempt to concentrate on your breathing, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. As thoughts pass through your mind, resist being distracted by them or judging them as good or bad. Take time to gently guide yourself away from the distraction and back to your breathing. Some individuals will repeat a mantra to themselves to help them focus more easily. Do your best to stay in the now, and focus on your current experience, aiming to achieve “equanimity,” or stillness and balance of the mind. It may take both time and

With research and practice, being mindful will come with ease and provide various benefits to an individual’s health and well-being. Mindfulness is not a difficult practice to implement. Whether you decide to take five minutes or fifty, allotting time to disconnect from the bustle and center yourself is an easy process with benefits well worth pausing for.

1. wildmind.org 2. health.harvard.edu March 2016 | 25

THE WOMEN BEHIND THE WRITING

BY EVA-DELILAH WIELAND, ARTS EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Louisa May Alcott Pen Name: A.M. Bernard In her 1868 book Little Women, Alcott used her experiences as a female to challenge where women stood in nineteenth century society. In order to have the freedom to explore the issue of female repression, she ironically was forced to write under a male pen name. Alcott’s secret was not discovered until 1942.

The Bronte Sisters Pen Names: Currer, Ellis & Acton Bell Charlotte, Emily, and Anne each wrote under pen names beginning with the first letter of their real names in the early nineteenth century Victorian Era. Charlotte’s Jane Eyre, Emily’s Wuthering Heights and Anne’s The Tenant of Wildfell Hall are among the most popular books of all time but the true authors almost did not receive credit.

In 1848, the sisters revealed their true identities to their publisher before dying shortly after1.

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Nora Roberts Pen Name: J.D. Robb Nora Roberts, a #1 best selling author, publishes works under both her real name and her alias, J.D. Robb. She writes romance novels under her given name, and her crime series, In Death, as Robb. This is because of the difference in audiences for each genre, and she better appeals to crime readers with the masculine pseudonym. She is still publishing under her pen name today.

Mary Ann Evans Pen Name: George Eliot Evans wrote The Mill on the Floss in 1860, the first of her seven notable pieces, as George Eliot in order to separate herself from the stereotypes of cliche romances and female writers.

In an essay written early in her career, Evans criticized the legitimacy of women writers during that era. Later in her career, she exposed herself as George Eliot and retained her audience, but because of her beliefs, was not an effective advocate for other female writers to follow.

In an effort to be taken seriously in the male dominated world, many female authors publish their pieces under male pen names. Since women were seen as less talented than men for many years, many established publishing companies refused to publish female authored books. While few publishing companies prohibit female writers today, pen names are still used in order to find acceptance in the literary world. The use of a different name continues to limit the deserved recognition women authors gain for their works of art.

Through the late eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, as society discouraged women from seriously pursuing writing, many talented female writers kept their work private, while those who longed to share their masterpieces were forced to pose as men. Unfortunately, many women who authored

Joanne Rowling Pen Name: Robert Galbraith Most famous for her Harry Potter series, Rowling is a more recent example of the phenomena. Not only does she write most of her work, including the Harry Potter series using her non-gendered initials, J.K., but she also writes under a male name for her crime genre pieces. As Robert Galbraith, she wrote the Cormoran Strike books, aiming to appeal to a more mature male audience. In both cases, her pen names protect her from any prejudgments as a female writer and prevent her gender from impacting sales3.

incredible pieces were never recognized or not recognized until long after their deaths.

Female authors still sometimes choose to write under pen names in order to prevent any prejudgments tied to their gender. These women are only a handful of the many who have sacrificed their well-deserved fame in order to succeed in a man’s world. While society has become more accepting of women in most fields today, female authors’ continued use of pen names on their published works highlight that there is still room to grow. Bookshelves are willing to accept all pieces by any author, it’s time that society became as accepting.

1. victorianweb.org 2. divinecaroline.com 3. www.pennlive.com March 2016 | 27

Those of us who revel in the drapery of a gown and prefer to don cropped flares and metallic tops to skinny jeans and hoodies have experienced the judgemental stares from people wondering, “where is s/he going?” To be honest, there’s probably no fitting time to wear a lace mock-turtleneck halter or a liquid gold bodysuit. But when it comes to those incredibly special stand-out pieces, isn’t that the point? - that you “stand out” regardless of where you are?

This is an ode to the back-of-the-closet ballgown you stare at lustfully when you dress in the morning, the extravagant clothes you wear with no care and no context, and the comfort we find in out of place looks.

CLOTHING BY SOPHIA LUCHIANNI STYLED AND DIRECTED BY MAYA CAMPBELL, FASHION EDITOR AND ALEXA CARLSON, FASHION EDITORIAL ASSISTANT WRITTEN BY MAYA CAMPBELL, FASHION EDITOR SARA SCHULD PHOTOGRAPHED BY ANDREW SALEWSKI SHOT ON LOCATION AT CAPITOL CENTER MARKET AND SOUTHEAST RECREATIONAL FACILITY

NO CONTEXT W/ SOPHIA LUCHIANNI

HOLLYWOOD’S REFL ON RECENT Although turning to history for content is not a new phenomenon in Hollywood, several documentary style movies and television series have found success in the past six months by covering recent history.

When covering controversial topics like high profile court cases, the Great Recession of 2008 and a sexual abuse cover-up in the Catholic Church, the production teams behind the pieces can do more than just tell the stories; they have the power to rewrite history.

From ‘Making A Murderer’

From ‘Spotlight’

Spotlight The decision to be reflective brought success for this year’s Academy Award recipient, Spotlight. The movie follows a team of Boston Globe reporters as it uncovers over 20 years of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church. Starring Michael Keaton, Mark Ruffalo, Rachel McAdams and Liev Schreiber, the movie documents a year long investigation that included dozens of interviews before the piece was printed in 2002. In order to create an accurate representation of the investigation and uncovered scandal, the original reporters were highly involved throughout the drafting and editing process. Boston Cardinal Sean O’Malley, who took over in 2003 after the former Cardinal stepped down, said the movie highlights “a very painful time” in the Catholic Church but that he would not discourage people from seeing the movie. While there were a few minor errors in the movie like referring to 9/11 as “9/11” only six weeks after it occurred, when the event was still called the “terrorist attacks,” the movie is a shining example of informative and accurate biographical work.

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Making a Murderer Making a Murderer is a 10-episode Netflix documentary that portrays the life of Stephen Avery. After DNA evidence proved Avery not guilty of a crime for which he served 18 years in prison, the Wisconsinite was released in 2003 only to be accused of murder in 2005. The University of Wisconsin-Madison Law School’s Innocence Project was behind Avery’s initial release and in the process of putting together a multi-million dollar lawsuit against Manitowoc County when Avery was accused of the second crime. The documentary turned eyes across the country onto Wisconsin as a heated debate over whether or not Avery was guilty of the second crime ensued. While some saw him as an unfortunate soul who was framed by the very criminal justice system that was supposed to protect him, others proclaimed him guilty. Those who side with the court’s second ruling against Avery have claimed that the documentary minimized the threat he posed to the community, having robbed a bar and set a cat on fire before going to prison in 1985.

While Avery supporters are less judgmental of his past aggressions, they are more interested in the possibility that the Manitowoc officers who put him in prison the first time planted evidence to make him appear guilty of the second crime. As viewers raced to finish the series, the documentary informed the public but its level of bias is still in question.

LECTIONS T HISTORY

BY MARGARET DUFFEY, ARTS EDITOR

From ‘The Big Short”

The Big Short The Big Short, Academy Award winner of Best Adapted Screenplay, is an untraditional documentation of the Great Recession. The movie portrays the lead up to the housing crash of 2007 that sent the American economy spiraling downward. Christian Bale, Ryan Gosling, Brad Pitt and Steve Carrell star as four of the men who see the fall coming and manage to profit off of it.

Originally a book with the same title by Michael Lewis, it transferred to film seamlessly. A massive effort was put forth to explain the technicalities of the financial world to Americans who are not wellversed in economics. Celebrities like Selena Gomez break in throughout the film to give the audience digestible explanations of complex financial terms to help the audience keep up with the storyline as the housing market spirals out of control. While the film has a comedic spin, the topic it covers carries an extreme amount of weight. Rather than telling the story of the Great Recession exactly as it happened, The Big Short focused on helping Americans understand why it happened. Since most viewers lived through it but still had no idea what caused it, the explanation style was what the American public needed.

From ‘American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson”

American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson is an FX television series that delves into the trial of Simpson, a former NFL player, for murdering Nicole Brown Simpson, his ex-wife, and Ronald Lyle Goldman in 1994. Although Simpson was acquitted in 1995, the trial was highly publicized and closely watched by the American public. Because of the public’s fascination and the high level of controversy surrounding the ruling, the case has never seemed totally closed.

Just this past March, and soon after the start of the series, the Los Angeles Police Department found a knife on Simpson’s former estate that could be linked to the case. While the trial ended over 20 years ago, the series has drawn the public’s attention back to Simpson and his possible guilt. With Robert Kardashian serving on Simpson’s defense, actors portraying his former wife, Kris Jenner, and his children, Kim, Khloe, Kourtney and Rob, who are all now reality television stars, make appearances throughout the show. Great acting by Cuba Gooding, Jr. as Simpson and David Schwimmer as Kardashian portrays a strong dynamic between the two men while John Travolta’s role as Robert Shapiro, a Simpson defense lawyer, is hard to watch because it is so poorly executed. Overall, the show is a dramatized version of the trial that forces America to take another look at Simpson.

A great weight is taken on when a screenwriter puts together a piece on a historical event. The weight is then passed on to actors who must portray real people and the weight rests on the shoulders of the director who decides what the end product will look like. Over the past six months, America has seen four major events played out on screen. While historical events, most audience members were alive when they happened so room for judgement is immense. Though challenging, the relating of history on screen is necessary for society to reflect on mistakes and realize its flaws as it moves forward.

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THE EVOLUTION OF THE

BY ALEXA CARLSON, FASHION EDITORIAL ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHED BY KATIE COONEY

The classic trench coat is a staple for the perfect spring wardrobe. They’re great for rainy days, can be dressed up or down and add a hint of mystery to your look.

However, many people don’t know the true roots of the trench coat.

Trench coats, originally created for trench warfare in World War I, first came about in the early 1900s. This new style of coat was made with technologically advanced fabrics, such as gabardine, designed to keep soldiers dry in the muddy trenches during war. Initially reserved for officers, the coat became a symbol of higher ranking among the troops. At this point, the trench coat’s popularity was due to its utility and functionality. Deep pockets gave soldiers ample storage, attached belts allowed for extra equipment to be clipped on and epaulettes conveniently stored gloves.

The new style of coat rapidly gained popularity back at home. Upper-class sportswear companies like Burberry and Aquascutum took interest in the look and added their own stylish flair. After the war, trench coats were associated with the strength and respectability of returning soldiers. The trench blurred boundaries between military and civilian style. While originating for wartime purposes, the trench was quickly picked up by the newly popular sporty aesthetic of the time.

It wasn’t until the 1940s when trench coats made a comeback during World War II, as well as its new spotlight in Hollywood.

In old Hollywood films, trench coats were reserved for mysterious characters like spies, detectives and femme fatales.

TRENCH COAT Fast forward to today, the trench’s wartime roots have been long forgotten and replaced by sentiments of British heritage and street style. Burberry, well known as the trench coat icon, has transitioned their brand over their many years of existence.

No longer marketing towards soldiers, the British label has now positioned itself as a symbol of heritage and authenticity.

On the runway, trench tcoats can be seen in a wide variety of colors, fabrics and embellishments. Burberry has shown trenches in everything from satin to lace and even with arms full of golden studs.

Flowing styles have become popular lately, putting a softer twist on the traditional, structured double-breasted shape.

The trench has withstood the test of time and held many roles, making it the perfect addition not only to this season’s wardrobe but for a lifetime of wear.

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THE AGAINST INJUSTICE

BY TAYLOR PALMBY, LIFESTYLE WRITER

In light of recent events, such as the anti-Semitic and racist incidents in Sellery Hall on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, creating a safe, accommodating and welcoming campus has been on the forefront of everyone’s mind. The UW-Madison campus is full of amazing people who come from all across the globe, and each individual brings a unique perspective to the table. Nothing about someone’s identity should ever be used to make them feel unsafe, unwelcome or unwanted.

Yet, that’s how many students feel on this campus every day. From experiencing microaggressions to full blown hate crimes, this campus has a long way to go in regards to racial and religious equality.

Miriam Coker, the ASM Equity and Inclusion Chair, said she feels less accepted on the UW-Madison campus than she does at home. “I’ve never been more ostracized in my life than I have while being here,” Coker said. “I am both African American and Muslim so I am often ostracized for both.”

Coker recalls one discriminating experience, while she was walking down Langdon Street a person yelled

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“Yo, ISIS,” at her. She said this is not the only form of discrimination she has faced on campus. She has also faced discrimination in the Department of Social Work from students and professors. “Even in the social work department I’m known as the ‘black bitch’ because I have an opinion, and I’m not afraid to have that opinion,” Coker said.

Unfortunately, these kinds of incidents have become a part of Coker’s everyday life. This is true for many other students on this campus. Maddy Braverman, the social media chair for Jewish Experience Madison, has faced antiSemitism on this campus. Braverman has seen countless Swastikas etched into desks in lecture halls, and she has become so accustomed to it, that these inappropriate etchings hardly phase her.

Braverman agrees that not all forms of discrimination are overt. She said she has not experienced many hateful comments, but she has experienced microagressions.

Microagressions are a form of verbal or nonverbal communication that is derogatory and targets a specific group of people because of the marginalized group they belong to. It is far more overt than

simply aggressive racist behaviors, ranging anywhere from touching the hair of a person of color without their permission to saying an individual “sounds white” and using the word “gay” as a casual insult.

Joshua Johnson, the Assistant Dean of Students and Director of the Multicultural Student Center, agrees that microagressions are an everyday occurrence on the Madison campus “Microaggressions, I would say yes, are the most common incidents in society. You think about so many subtle ways [to discriminate], and the sad part is they become normal in our society,” Johnson said. “Many people don’t even know when they have been microagressed or when they commit a microagression.”

Normalizing these microagressions only furthers inaccurate stereotypes and contributes to an endless cycle of discrimination. These microagressions happen every day to many people on campus and these small interactions add up, fostering an overall negative environment for marginalized groups. It is important for everyone on campus to be aware of microagressions, and to do their part to prevent them from happening in order to create a more positive environment. It can be as simple as sticking up for someone when they are being microagressed or just being conscious of how interactions can be perceived.

Johnson said he and his team work to help students gain the confidence and language to combat microgagressions. But when the microaggressions occur consistently or other forms of discrimination, such as hateful language or violence, occur, Johnson encourages students to report these incidents.

According to the UW-Madison Hate & Bias Incident Report for the Fall 2015 semester, there were 23

reported incidents of hate and bias, 10 of which occurred in residence halls. The prevalence of incidents in residence halls is especially disturbing, because hateful incidents in residence halls prevent students from feeling safe in their own homes.

This fear of not being safe can affect all aspects of a student’s life and inhibit their education because their minds are constantly occupied with fear. This number only includes reported incidents, but Coker said many students choose not to report because they do not want to go through the process. Students do not report for a variety of reasons.

Some students fear the people reading these incident reports are not reading them to try to foster a more welcoming environment, but simply to collect data. Coker said another reason is that in the time it takes to report, students often have so many other activities, such as studying, class and clubs, they feel like reporting is a waste of time.

The Hate and Bias committee has worked hard to ensure that the reporting process is as easy as possible, but Johnson admits the process can still be taxing because students have to think about an incident that can cause a lot of pain to remember. Even when incidents are reported it can be hard to find the perpetrator. Many of the incidents are perpetrated by strangers in passing or are acts of vandalism.

Coker said that the UW-Madison campus is not doing enough to create a more accepting environment, and Johnson agrees. “It’s a hard thing to say that we can never do enough,” Johnson said. “What I think we are really going to have to do is to increase our education. We can address a lot of these issues like microagressions and bias incidents by providing people with knowledge.”

When people are more knowledgeable they become aware of the way their words and actions are perceived by others. This awareness can help people adjust their behaviors to make sure they aren’t unintentionally harming others or contributing to a negative environment. It also helps people understand other cultures and why some of the things they may be doing or saying could be hurtful.

UW-Madison recently announced the implementation of a cultural competency program and the acceleration of hiring student support counseling services at UHS, but the University cannot do this all on their own. This competency program will be introduced to new students in the fall of 2016, and will focus on community building. The student body needs to work to be more inclusive, accepting and proactive in order to stop these incidents of hate and bias.

Many students and faculty have already started a conversation about racism on campus with the #TheRealUW hashtag. Students are sharing their stories of racism on campus to show the injustices that occur to marginalized groups every day. #TheRealUW shows that students are making the effort to educate each other and stand up for themselves and their peers in addition to strides made by the university.

“If we really want things to change on this campus, people have to take responsibility for their own communities,” Johnson said.

Discrimination happens every day, but it doesn’t have to. The student body has the power to take a stand and make Madison feel like home to anyone who steps foot on the campus. Together the community can come together to educate and mandate acceptance.

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WHISPER IT THE APP THAT ALLOWS AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE DARKEST SECRETS ON CAMPUS

BY LINH NGUYEN, LIFESTYLE WRITER PHOTOGRAPHED BY ALEXANDRA FOLINO People love to gossip. They love having the power to say things that could potentially affect others, but not themselves. Back when the internet wasn’t as popular, people didn’t have the same kind of opportunities to publicize their inner thoughts or secrets. I think the world back then must have been a very different place, either for better or for worse. Now, as many of us around the world have access to the web, smartphone apps and the like, gossiping and expressing our personal opinions have gone to a whole new level, thanks to a power given to us by the internet: anonymity. Whisper is one app that might have most recently perpetuated the trend.

I found out about Whisper through BuzzFeed, because of their several confession-type videos using the whispers they found on the app. Released in 2012, Whisper quickly gained its popularity over the years for giving everyone a platform to freely say anything they like, while being completely anonymous.

To make things even easier, you don’t even need to download the app. By going to their website, you can see thousands of “whispers” people all around the world have shared online. The app also includes an option to see whispers by people who go to the same school as you, so you technically get a quick view of all the naughty, provocative and controversial thoughts and actions your fellow students indulge in. For me, seeing what other Badgers talk about is definitely amusing.

The last time I checked, the University of WisconsinMadison has posted close to 3,000 whispers. And you would not be surprised with the dominant content of these posts: a large number of hook-up invitations, as if this is an alternative for Tinder. The other majority of content contains people bashing current presidential

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candidates, teachers or friends. To be fair, at least they are following politics. Basically, from looking at the posts, I get a sense that many people are mainly angry, sad or looking for a sexual partner, and that in itself is pretty concerning.

Although I am not necessarily one for gossip, I couldn’t resist the temptation to “whisper.” The exhilaration of being able to say whatever you want without the fear of judgement outweighed the rational thought in me, who found this app to be more than ridiculous. And so I did.

Right after the post, I found myself feeling paranoid, fearing that it is not actually anonymous, and somehow I would get busted by someone I know. But that feeling subsided and in came the sense of relief. I get it now. I felt as if I was able to get a huge secret off my chest. I understand why so many people go to this app to share their secrets, because we all have something even our best friend won’t be able to empathize with.

You have to try using Whisper to fully understand. It may seem silly, but it can be eye-opening in a sense when you will realize how many people are also weird, eccentric, curious or emotional, just like you. Many people have fears, insecurities and secrets they reveal on the app that you never thought anyone could have. Once you see that and know you’re not entirely alone, maybe you can stop criticizing yourself so harshly for one little mistake you think goes against society’s moral values. Whisper it, and you may be able to laugh at even your darkest, most sacred hidden secret.

FASHION GUILTY PLEASURES: HOW TO MODERNIZE YOUR FAVORITE TRENDS FROM THE PAST

BY MAAME BREWOO, FASHION WRITER

1. Gauchos Ah, yes, there’s no greater feeling than the wind rustling through these wide and quite unflattering calf-length pants. With the all room that gauchos allow for leg movement, why get rid of them?

And how can we bring back the shapelessness and incredible comfort they offer? Simple. Turn to its almost identical twin— culottes. Although similar in shape to gauchos, culottes offer more style and grace in an outfit.

With the look of a full skirt and the function of pants, culottes are your best bet if you’re looking for a chic way to revamp an outfit.

When it comes to fashion, we constantly see new trends appear. They start by taking a risky first strut on the runway and then they begin to pop up in trendsetters’ uniforms, on the red carpet, and all over the blogosphere. Eventually, after a few seasons, we begin to scoff and roll our eyes at the same trends we couldn’t live without; and as latecomers trash them during annual wardrobe clearouts, they enter permanent fashion retirement. Still, sometimes some of us are a little salty to see our favorite looks go and secretly wish that they would stick around for a bit longer. If you’re wondering how we can sneak our “untrendy” items back into our closet, look no further. Here’s how you can add a modern twist to some cherished pieces of the past:

2. Jelly Shoes Back in elementary school, these caged, semi-transparent, plastic sandals dominated the playground. These days, we see them slowly making their way into the wardrobes of adults. As a way of re-living our carefree and youthful days, jelly shoes are essential. Try a pair of colorful tights, a circle skirt, and a peter-pan collared shirt with these shoes for an adorable retro look. coggles.com americanapparel.net

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3. Velcro Shoes What’s not to miss about these super functional shoes?

You don’t have to worry about tripping on a dangerous shoelace with these babies. Velcro sandals are popular with active lifestyle brands like Teva, and Keen, so if you’re looking for the perfect sandal for a hike, look no further. On the other hand, the perforated, velcrostrapped sneakers from MICHAEL by Michael Kors are perfect if you’re going for that casual athleisure look. images.bloomingdales.com

4. Bell Bottoms These pants took flight in the mid-1960s and throughout the 1970s with their tight thighs and larger-than-life flared legs.

Although it is hard to find brands that still make bell bottoms, you can still channel your inner disco queen with a pair of widelegged pants. Worn with the right pair of platform heels, this similar alternative can magically elongate your legs and make you feel totally groovy. Go for a pair that are high-waisted and add a belt for a defined waist and a sheer, long-sleeved blouse. assets11.modaoperandi.com assets12.modaoperandi.com March 2016 | 43

5. Juicy Couture Velour Tracksuit Bring back the unofficial uniform of the early 2000s!

As seen on Paris Hilton, Kim Kardashian, and more recently, Rihanna in a powdered-pink Sean Jean Velour tracksuit and DEGEN Boots, this ultra-soft outfit seriously needs to make its way back to mainstream dressing. If you want to follow in Rih Rih’s footsteps, you can wear this tracksuit with a pair of boots for a modern, concretejungle look. Alternatively, try playing around with layers: add a bomber jacket on top of, and a tank underneath, the hoodie.

6. Denim Mini Skirt This sexy low-rise skirt paired with a super cropped top was the perfect recipe for trendy belly-button cleavage in the 00s. But how can we put a modern-twist on this piece? If you’re looking to keep the casualness of this denim piece, try pairing it with a cute crop top, throw on a leather jacket and some Doc Martens for an edgy look. cache.net-a-porter.com mediaus.topshop.com

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7. Cargo Pants The first thing that comes to mind is Kim Possible’s outfit staple: a pair of baggy khaki-green cargo pants.

To achieve the same adventurous look and feel as our girl Kim, opt for a pair of skinny cargo pants. The skinny version of the cargo pant offers a more sleek look without the extra baggage. Pair these pants with some combat boots, a tank, a badass leather jacket or denim jacket, and you’ll be set to fight the bad guys. cdn-images.farfetch.com stylebop.com

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8. Yeti Boots Named after the Yeti, better known as the infamous Abominable Snowman, for its long white fur, these boots are the epitome of fuzzy and cozy comfort for your feet. If you plan on going to a fun rave, wear them!

If you plan on being a go go dancer for the night, wear them! If you don’t plan on doing any of the above, you should still wear them, perhaps with some cute loungewear for those lazy Sundays. tradesy.com

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