Moda Madison: February 2017 Issue

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Photo © Sharon Vanorny

DO HO SUH EXHIBITION

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•

ON VIEW

THROUGH MAY 14

FREE ADMISSION • 227 STATE STREET mmoca.org

Meg Rotter Editor in Chief Claire Hornacek Deputy Editor Alexandra Folino Art Director Victoria Fok WUD Publications Committee Director Jim Rogers WUD Publications Committee Advisor Deshawn McKinney WUD President

FEBRUARY

2017

Alix DeBroux Claire DeRosa Associate Art Director Ashley Mackens Ashley Ng Claire Grummon Leah Voskuil Marissa Haegele Photography Directors Staff Writers Jameson Zaballos Margaret Duffey Web Master Alexandra Folino Darby Hoffman Ben Golden Meg Rotter Arts Curator Jameson Zaballos Kenzie Bryant Contributing Writers Special Projects Designer Estefany Armenta Kelsey Daykin Kelsey Daykin Reilly Koch Nyomi Defiel Creative Directors Adi Dina Alexa Carlson Reilly Koch Fashion Editor Rowan Koch Camille Robert Darby Hoffman Huyen Vo Lifestyle Editor Models Haley Nippert Bozh Art Culture Editor Alexandra Folino Margaret Duffey Reilly Koch Arts Editor Art Jameson Zaballos Claire DeRosa Men’s Editor Claire Grumman Anna Olla Leah Voskuil Eva-Delilah Wieland Photography Special Events Coordinators Taylor Palmby Special Thanks To: Marketing and Social Media Liason The Rock Agency

on the

COVER

KELSEY DAYKIN PHOTOGRAPHED BY CLAIRE GRUMMON FEBRUARY 2017 | 3

LIFESTYLE

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2017

FASHION

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DARE TO BARE

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NESTING

EVOLUTIONARY STYLE How new creative directors reinterpret & refresh brands

WORK IN PROGRESS An exploration in reclaiming identity, self-love and beauty

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Why a room is more than a place for naps and Netflix

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FREE THE MANE

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DX: A CASE OF OVERACHIVER ANXIETY

Overcoming stigma towards men’s hair products

Learning to take a healthy step back during times of stress

ART

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HAPPILY NEVER AFTER On the perpetuation of intimate partner and gender-based violence in media

Because there is no such thing as a perfect beauty regimen

MEN’S

The fashion industry’s take on sheer looks

CULTURE

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BEING A BAD BEAUTY JUNKY

POTENTIAL DECREASE OF OPPORTUNITY IN THE ARTS Elimination of federal funding for the arts industry could limit accessibility for underserved communities

FEATURED

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FREX Beauty never looked so spot on

On Saturday, January 21, I, along with over 75,000 local feminists, took to the streets, or more specifically State Street. With sign in hand and girl gang by my side, I stepped in time with the crowd surrounding me, echoing their chants for gender equality. The air was electric with positive energy, not a single insult or shove in the packed capitol lawn. Even as the inauguration of Donald Trump hung over us, it felt like together we could truly accomplish anything.

Reflecting on this moment in time, I can still remember the rush of pride I felt that day and the almost giddy sense of liberation that overtook the crowd. But, even though hordes of people are not currently storming the capitol, there are plenty of other ways to express your beliefs and impact policy, even from the comfort of your bedroom.

alone, it is important to write to our senators and government officials in order to enact change. Host a huddle. As part of the 10 Actions for the First 100 Days Campaign, which launched at the Women’s March, Huddles are meant to be a nonviolent way to unite with like–minded individuals in the area and to establish goals, discuss upcoming opportunities and act on your beliefs (such as writing a postcard to your senator). Go to womensmarch.com/100 for more details.

While those are just a few suggestions, there are numerous ways to fight for freedom, whether you’re working towards women’s, LGBTQ+ or other individuals’ rights. Now is not the time to be silent; stand up, fight back.

Best,

Write a letter. Whether you go to an organized writing campaign, get together a group of your friends or simply sit down and write

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HAPPILY

NEVER AFTER

CONSIDERATIONS ON HOW GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE AND INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE ARE PERPETUATED IN MEDIA

BY ALEXANDRA FOLINO, CONTRIBUTING WRITER It is a tale as old as time: a handsome, yet naive and self-absorbed prince is transformed into a beast as punishment for his selfish behavior. In order to reverse the spell, the prince is required to earn the love of a young woman, and soon the intelligent and strong-willed Belle comes into the picture. The Beast imprisons her, yet despite his “beastly-ness,” Belle persists in her attempts to alter his dominating and verbally-abusive behavior. Her commitment and devotion to changing the beast through gentle, kind submission eventually leads her to uncover his “prince charming.” Of course, the tale is brought to an end where everyone lives “happily ever after” — or so it seems.

Hitting the theaters in 1991, the popular children’s film Beauty and The Beast spread like wildfire, grossing more than $100 million during its premiere year in the United States alone.1 To this day, the Disney Princess Empire has a strong international presence and marketing efforts. The popularity of the Disney Princess line, one of Disney’s most marketable assets, and its representation of “$100 Million Movies” The Washington Post. http:// www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/style/daily/movies/ 100million/article.htm 1

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gender roles has considerable implications for children, especially young girls. The animated Beauty and The Beast makes no exception, with a message particularly problematic for young girls and women: given this model of a heterosexual relationship, little girls are taught to overlook abusive behavior, violence, yelling and rage.

They are taught to submit, tend to and love “the Beast” within the man, because a gentle prince supposedly lurks within. It is narratives of this nature that contribute to the normalization and romanticization of gender-based violence and intimate partner violence within heterosexual relationships.

With its release approaching this spring, only time will tell if Disney’s new Beauty and The Beast will be able to flip this narrative on its side, and with popular feminist celebrity Emma Watson starring as Belle, critics are sure to be on the lookout. Yet, this type of precarious narrative is one that is still commonly used today, making it even more important that we consider how the media influences our perception and perpetuates gendered assumptions in heterosexual relationships.

Romanticized violence and the substitution of violence as passion is a trope commonly

used in the film and television industry.

Take for example the critically acclaimed AMC TV series Mad Men. Audiences fell in love with the charismatic main character, Don Draper (played by Jon Hamm), who is emotionally abusive in a number of romantic pursuits throughout the series.

In season six, Draper falsely imprisons his mistress in a series of passionate scenes. She has little control over their romance, yet is compelled to stay with him. Again, we see another example of how the female protagonist must “fix” her abuser through love and devotion to them. Despite the series’ efforts to remind audiences that this fictional plot is a representation of the past, we are still captivated by Draper’s charisma, despite his part in manipulative and verballyabusive relationship behavior.

Another controversial romanticization of

modern day gender-based

violence is the Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy, whose second film Fifty Shades Darker was just released. The young and inexperienced Anastasia Steele becomes enchanted by the enigmatic Christian Grey, who teaches her his sexual inclinations, involving various BDSM practices. However, the problem with Fifty Shades is that it associates hot sex with violence without providing any context, which is one of the reasons the BDSM community call Ana and Christian’s behavior a “glorification of abuse” and an inaccurate portrayal of BDSM culture.2 With Ana as protagonist, she is portrayed as passive and shy, agreeing to Christian’s BDSM practices only because she doesn’t want to lose him. In many ways, he manipulates an inexperienced young woman into a lifestyle that requires trust, consent and comfort—all hallmarks of BDSM culture—and does not provide them. He manipulates her in numerous aspects of her life—not just in the bedroom, but in everyday life—and he stalks her, turning up at her work and tracing her phone while she is out with friends.

The sexual contracts and the whips come at a heavy cost (that is, in exchange for Anastasia’s agency and romantic freedom), especially when there are consensual, healthier and certainly more ethical ways to combine pain and sex when partaking in BDSM practices. I am not advocating you to throw away your handcuffs and flogger this second - I promise. Instead, I urge you to consider how the use of narratives of this nature in media are conflicting because of their inaccurate portrayal and behavior that perpetuates intimate partner and gender-based violence.

Unfortunately, the prevalence of intimate partner violence and gender-based violence is still rampantly high. One in five women will be raped within their lifetime, and nearly 40 percent of those rapes will happen to college-aged women.3 The CDC found that “23 percent of females and 14 percent of males who experienced rape, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner, first experienced some form of partner violence between 11 and 17 years of age.”4 Still today, there is a troubling amount of evidence for casual attitudes toward things like rape and nonconsensual sexual domination, as well as gendered assumptions about https://www.buzzfeed.com/caseygueren/ultimate-guide-to-bdsm?utm_term=.ahoxXExR7g#. leqnqOnomX 2

https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pdf/ sv-datasheet-a.pdf 4 https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/intimatepartnerviolence/teen_dating_violence.html 3

“OUR SOCIETY PERPETUATES THESE KINDS OF HETEROSEXUAL RELATIONSHIP DYNAMICS THROUGH MANY ASPECTS OF OUR CULTURE, AND PRODUCTION COMPANIES TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE HIGHLY PROFITABLE MARKET THAT FINDS THIS TYPE OF NARRATIVE APPEALING.”

control and what is “proper” relationship behavior.

These social attitudes affect partners sexually, physically, psychologically and emotionally.

Our role is just as important. Our society perpetuates these kinds of heterosexual relationship dynamics through many aspects of our culture, and production companies take advantage of the highly profitable market that finds this type of narrative appealing. Taking control of these narratives is crucial to the overall abolishment of gender-based violence and intimate partner violence. The stories we tell and listen to, whether they be a children’s animated movie or a film about a BDSM relationship, are crucial to shaping the minds of those around us, and it is our responsibility to ensure the stories we share are ones that are worth listening to.

PLEASE NOTE: This article was written specifically to examine how the media overwhelmingly perpetuates certain romantic behavior between cis-gendered heterosexual individuals.

However, its exclusion of any other identity is not meant to disregard the effects gendered assumptions and the media have in controlling relationship dynamics and public opinion.

In general, the LGBTQ+ community has yet to be widely represented in mainstream culture. Conscientiousness of the representation of this community must also be considered.

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Each freckled face is a unique work of art. There are Monet freckles, covering the skin in tiny brushstrokes. Or maybe they’re done in the style of Seurat, sprinkled across the bridge of the nose, every dot distinct. No matter how they appear, freckles deserve to be celebrated and loved.

KELSEY DAYKIN, NYOMI DEFIEL, ADI DINA, REILLY KOCH AND ROWAN KOCH PHOTOGRAPHED BY CLAIRE GRUMMON CREATIVE DIRECTORS: KELSEY DAYKIN AND REILLY KOCH POST-PRODUCTION BY CLAIRE GRUMMON ART DIRECTION BY ALEXANDRA FOLINO AND REILLY KOCH SPECIAL THANKS TO THE ROCK AGENCY 8 | FEBRUARY 2017

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BEING A BAD

BEAUTY JUNKY

BY DARBY HOFFMAN, LIFESTYLE EDITOR ILLUSTRATED BY ALEXANDRA FOLINO

I am the type of woman who drools over covers of self-help books and binge reads articles on how to live to your full potential. I know it seems cliché, but I am constantly looking to learn how I can improve myself, by doing, being and even wearing the best.

Initially, I planned to focus this article on brands that make ethical, healthy beauty attainable. Companies with the Leaping Bunny1, cruelty-free certification (such as Bite, Dry Bar, Milani and The Body Shop) went to the top of my list, along with those labeled with vegan, organic and other popular buzzwords.

However, I very quickly realized that even the brands I thought were “the best” had their flaws. Not only is finding products with good ingredients, ethical production and high-quality performance near impossible, there is also no standard definition for a lot of these trendy labels that so many conscious consumers are searching for.

In fact, there are no government regulations on using terms such as “organic” or “natural” in association with products. Although certain verifications, such as USDA Organic2, do exist, not all products adhere to these standards.

Even with a label casually slapped on the packaging, these products continue “Leaping Bunny Program,” leaping bunny.org, 2014.

“Labeling Organic Products,” United States Department of Agriculture.

utilizing ingredients with adverse, even dangerous, effects.

After realizing the extent of this gray area, I wondered, how am I supposed to find these holy-grail, perfect beauty products, if there is not even an agreement on their definition?

Then, it hit me. Maybe the brand I am looking for, one that considers my health, the wellbeing of the planet and my need for otherworldly pigmentation, simply does not exist. This imaginary brand created by my high standards was ideal but also unattainable.

Although disappointing, this realization did not mean I would abandon my efforts.

Instead, I chose an alternative: awareness.

Our world’s current state and the era of information overload makes it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Between social media, personal interactions and other influences, we are bombarded by messages of what we should do or believe.

Rather than being swallowed by these countless issues, we must be selective in choosing our battles. As much as I want to be the most conscious consumer possible, being sure to minimize the impact of my purchases on myself and the planet, I recognize the countless factors contributing to these products.

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Therefore, remaining aware is the best option for all of us naughty beauty

addicts. Rather than trying to immediately strip our beauty routine of anything lessthan-perfect, I recommend taking small, attainable steps that make awareness a part of your everyday habits.

For example, utilize apps like Think Dirty and Cruelty Free by the Leaping Bunny Program to find easy-to-understand, accessible information on beauty brands and products. Search through either app to learn about ingredients, health effects and certifications for everything in your medicine cabinet.

Another easy change is knowing what products and ingredients not to use.

Everyone knows to avoid parabens and sulfates, but what about petroleum, formaldehyde and phthalates? Taking the time to research the no-nos and compare them to your labels is an easy way to keep hazardous products off your shelves and make room for new alternatives.

I am still not totally content with this decision, but it is all I can do for now. I want to restore fun and creativity to my beauty regimen, rather than making the research a chore for myself. Acknowledging that conscious consumerism is a lifelong commitment is the best way to start your journey.

Do your research and learn what it means to implement awareness into your beauty routine. Your body, the planet and so many other aspects of your life will reap the benefits.

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BY ASHLEY MACKENS, FASHION WRITER

Fashion forward individuals are usually known for taking wardrobe risks, especially when it comes to showing off some skin. Plunging necklines, low backs and sexy cut-outs have been dominating runways, red carpets and even street style for awhile now. It only makes sense that designers and fashionistas are choosing to push the boundaries even further.

VOGUERUNWAY.COM

Clothing was initially invented with the sole intent to cover and protect our bodies. Over thousands of years, the purpose of clothing has evolved to be less conventional and more about style. Sometimes we use clothing to distract from our bodies and sometimes we use it to draw attention to our bodies. A great fitting pair of jeans puts emphasis on our butts, while a strappy tank highlights our arms.

But what about the parts of our bodies that are traditionally not supposed to be seen? What happens when that top becomes completely see-through?

Models walking the runway used to fear a dreaded and embarrassing nip-slip, now they are voluntarily baring it all. Just last year, Gigi Hadid had a wardrobe malfunction that sparked negative attention from the media while walking in a show for Versace. This year, Hadid walked for Fendi and was praised by the media for confidently strutting with an exposed chest.

Other spring 2017 collections (left), including Valentino and Jason Wu, featured sheer looks on braless models.

VOGUERUNWAY.COM

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Fashion design is widely accepted as a form of art, and art is saturated with nudity, thus the sheer clothing trend is really nothing new. What has made it become popularized

DIOR INSTAGRAM

KENDALL JENNER INSTAGRAM

are supermodels and celebrities taking this trend to the streets. It is one thing to be looked at in passing on a runway, but another to rock a look all day and all night. Historically, naked women were at the discretion of male artists. Today this trend is a way for women to take control of their own bodies and portray nudity as something that is beautiful and empowering. Nonetheless, there is still controversy about whether or not these scandalous looks are truly “ready-towear.”

Dior and supermodel Bella Hadid have the answer. This photo taken at the Dior Ball showcases Hadid in a revealing powder blue corset-inspired dress. Although in western culture it is considered taboo for women to expose their nipples, the fashion industry fully embraces this trend, on and off the runway.

The comments on this particular post tell us that not everyone is on board with the emerging style, and would prefer for Hadid’s nipples to be blurred on the internet. Contrastly, comments left on

one of Kendall Jenner’s Instagram posts beg her to remove the emojis from her chest.

Approve or disapprove, more and more women are deciding to take fashion risks and it doesn’t seem like they are going to stop any time soon. It will be interesting to see how the sheer clothing craze progresses and the discourse that surrounds it.

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Overcoming stigma towards men’s hair products

BY MEG ROTTER, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ILLUSTRATED BY BOZH ART AND ALIX DEBROUX As I was lounging on the couch watching E’s Red Carpet coverage of the Golden Globes, my roommates and I could not stop swooning over the nominees’ gorgeous hair. Head after head of gorgeous locks sauntered up to the step-and-repeat, and I’m not just talking about the ladies either. Gosling and Timberlake opted for shorter, structured looks, while Ventimiglia slicked back his signature black mane.

Watching these well-groomed actors made me think of the men in my life, feeling disappointed when their hair so obviously paled in comparison.

However, becoming an A-list actor does not cause your hair to transform magically overnight – it is brought about by quality haircuts and proper grooming. While there seems to be a

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social stigma (at least in the mind of the typical college male) against using hair product, it can be an incredible asset to improving your style and overall appearance. Spending a few minutes styling your hair before leaving the house can make an incredible difference. Whether you’re headed to a job interview or out to the bars, people will notice the effort you put into your look and will appreciate it.

Stepping up your hair game can be as easy as adding a dollop of product to your hair after showering, or trying out a new, trendy haircut at the barber.

Depending on the type and length of your hair, some products will be more beneficial than others. Check out my suggestions below for inexpensive styling tips.

long hair don't care Whether you rock the man bun on the reg or let it flow to your shoulders, long hair can go from being luscious and healthy to frizzy and dry in a matter of weeks if not taken care of properly. Yes, long, flowing hair can be enormously sexy, but it definitely requires more effort. In the winter months it is especially easy to dry your hair out. Using a styling product that doubles as a dry shampoo, such as R+Co’s Dry Shampoo Paste, will keep your hair oilfree and clean so you won’t have to wash it every day, helping your hair retain its natural oils.

— R+Co Dry Shampoo Paste, $28

pomp and fade

Better for medium to short hair, an ultra-hold pomade can help you structure your hair for a more professional style. The Blind Barber’s 90 Proof Hair Pomade is a crowd favorite when it comes to creating a sleek, old school look. Own the trendy comb over, taper or pompadour fade by adding this high-shine product after hopping out of the shower. Pro tip: when applying a pomade to your hair, start at the back and work forward.

This allows you to spread to product evenly and help you avoid a build-up of product at the front of your hair.

— 90 Proof Hair Pomade, $18

wax on, wax off

If you prefer a shorter, low-maintenance hairstyle, consider using a wax-

based product for styling. Wax styling products are especially beneficial for those with naturally oily hair. While pomades and gels can add extra sheen to your hair, wax products dry with a matte finish. We recommend checking out V76’s V Rated Natural Waves, one of Esquire’s top-rated picks. Along with a matte finish, V76 uses soybean wax, which helps soften your hair, and comes in a blue cedar scent.

— V Rated Natural Waves, $21

low-maintenance look

While all the above options are simple enough to pull-off, I’ve included one more pick for

on-the-go styling. Sea salt sprays can be applied to either damp or dry hair, allowing you to add a little texture and shine even when you’re in a rush. In addition to its texturizing qualities, the salt acts as a dry shampoo, reducing oil build-up in your hair. Sachajuan’s Ocean Mist is a great sea salt spray to use for those with medium to long hairstyles. We recommend using it in the summer for a beachy vibe and scent.

— Ocean Mist, $31

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Potential Decrease of Opportunity in the Arts

BY MARGARET DUFFEY, ARTS EDITOR PEXELS

Looking to cut down on federal spending, President Donald Trump’s administration is considering a wide range of programs and organizations as places to reduce funding. The Hill newspaper released an article in January detailing areas that are going to be hit hardest, according to Trump’s plan, but he has yet to confirm or deny the report.1 If implemented, Trump would completely eliminate the National Endowment for the Arts.

Conservative efforts to reduce funding and get rid of the endowment agency are not new. The use of federal funding to issue grants to artists and museums enable them to create and display work that would be out of reach otherwise.

The creation of controversial pieces with federal dollars, though, has enraged conservative legislators in the past.

For example, Andres Serrano’s urinedrenched crucifix, which benefited from federal funding, acted as a reason to implement cuts in the 1990s.2 The NEA Bolton, Alexander. “Trump Team Prepares Dramatic Cuts.” TheHill. N.p., 19 Jan. 2017. Web. 09 Feb. 2017.

2 Bowley, Graham. “What If Trump Really Does End Money for the Arts?” The New York Times. N.p., 30 Jan. 2017. Web. 09 Feb. 2017.

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received slightly less than $148 million in 2016, about .004 percent of the total national budget. More than 80 percent of the money is used to give out grants and awards across the nation.3 Despite operating with a small percentage of federal help, the Bureau of Economic Analysis published a report last February that attributed the arts and cultural industry with more than $704 billion of the U.S. economy.4 Responsible for 4.2 percent of the country’s GDP, it contributes $100 billion more to the economy than construction.5 While funding for the NEA is already limited, they stimulate the arts and culture industry, making the high contribution to the American economy possible. Without Arts.gov. “National Endowment for the Arts Quick Facts.” (n.d.): n. pag.Https://www.arts.gov/sites/ default/files/nea-quick-facts.pdf. 2016. Web. 09 Feb. 2017.

4 Kern, Paul. “ARTS AND CULTURE GROWS AT FASTER PACE IN 2013.” (2016): n. pag. U.S. Department of Commerce Bureau of Economic Analysis. Web. 09 Feb. 2017.

5 Donnelly, Grace. “What Trump’s Proposed Spending Cuts Could Mean for the Arts Economy.” Fortune.

N.p., 19 Jan. 2017. Web. 09 Feb. 2017.

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its distribution of grants, hundreds of artists, museums and cultural centers would struggle to create and display pieces. The NEA gives state and regional agencies about 40 percent of the federal funding to distribute, with the requirement that a portion of it go toward underserved communities. The remaining 60 percent is awarded to people who apply for grants through the endowment agency. In 2016, the NEA helped nearly 16,000 communities with grants in every congressional district of the nation.3 The NEA aims to engage individuals in the art world who would be cut out of it without its help. Forty percent of activities the NEA supports occur in impoverished areas, introducing an often ignored population to art’s power of healing. More than a third of its grants are directed toward low-income audiences to draw a large population of people to art who require its assistance.3 Eliminating the NEA could lead to the exclusion of these populations from the art scene. The arts industry relies on a diversity of ideas and innovation, both of which would be significantly limited without the NEA’s contributions.

BY CLAIRE DEROSA, CULTURE WRITER HUYEN VO, CAMILLE ROBERT AND ESTEFANY ARMENTA PHOTOGRAPHED BY CLAIRE DEROSA

With Donald Trump’s assumption of office, it has been an especially difficult year for women—more specifically, women of color. Election night and the entire week after, individuals of varying racial and ethnic backgrounds were scared, furious and absolutely heartbroken that America could dismissively turn its gaze from the raw hate oozing out of every orange pore of his body. On a campus that is predominantly white, it’s oftentimes difficult to see how one politician’s words can negatively affect and ostracize different groups of people. I wanted to create something that personalizes and tells the experiences of real women - women that could be your friends, roommates or classmates.

One night after the election, Camille and I were walking home together and she recalled how different the election was for her eight years ago. Curly haired, tenyear-old Camille stayed up with her family, eagerly waiting for the numbers to roll in that would change history. When they announced Barack Obama had won, she remembered how her whole family began to cry and hug one another. That night, Camille jumped into

bed wearing her two-sizes-too-big Obama “HOPE” shirt, knowing that tomorrow a black man would be the President of the United States and that things would be forever changed.

This is the kind of love and hope I want to share with you all. This project is something I wanted to do for a while, but lacked direction. Although women of color have become increasingly prevalent in magazines, advertisements and the news, they are still underrepresented and oftentimes portrayed in stereotypical or negative ways. Historically and today, many women’s rights activists ignore the multifaceted oppression that women of color endure. This project’s intention is to give a platform to women of color, who are often not offered the same opportunities to be heard as white women. I want to reclaim identity in a positive, self-loving way. We are all works in progress, and everyone should know that they are worthy of respect, attention and love. With this project, we are reclaiming and acknowledging ourselves as beautiful, opinionated women.

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Estefany Armenta

MODA MAGAZINE: How has your background/upbringing affected your life at Madison?

ESTEFANY ARMENTA: I am Mexican-American, so I have been brought up with the values that my parents grew up with in Mexico. They are more religious and conservative in some aspects, but they have also let my sister and I explore our personalities. Even though I have grown up in neighborhoods where there is not much diversity, I was always able to find one person that was like me. It is hard growing up and having to explain to people why you eat or don’t eat certain things, such as why I eat tortillas all the time, or why your culture is the way it is. It is expected that I know everything there is to know about my culture, but I don’t.

MM: What does it mean to be a woman of color at Madison?

EA: I am from Madison, and where I grew up there is not much diversity. My family and I were one of the few families of color there and so when I went to school it was a primarily white school. Growing up as a woman of color means that I have to find the power and the resilience within me to fight the constant stereotypes that are thrust upon me. I have to make sure that I am not taken advantage of or not taken seriously because I am a woman of color. I am fighting for me and every other woman of color.

MM: Do you wear makeup? Why or why not?

EA: I do not wear makeup very often. I like simplicity and looking natural. I think that if you want to wear makeup, you should wear makeup, but if you don’t want to then you should not feel obligated to do so. The only time that I wear makeup is for special occasions because in that scenario I feel that it is kind of necessary to do so.

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Camille Robert

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MM: How does establishing your own self-identify play a role in your self-esteem?

MM: How has your background/upbringing affected your life at Madison?

Camille Robert: As a multiracial woman, my self-esteem has been directly affected by my searching for my self-identity.

In times when I feel as though I am unable to find my true self and am not accepting of my uniqueness, my self-esteem is low. I have found a self identity through accepting my differences and appreciating my multiculturalism.

CR: I was born in Seattle. I developed in a liberal bubble of Chief Sealth International High School, which is in the liberal bubble of Seattle, which is in the liberal bubble of Washington, which is in the liberal bubble of the West Coast. I have been surrounded by diversity, awareness and acceptance. Coming to Madison has opened my eyes to just how closed-minded the world is. It has taught me that there needs to be more education on the issues of minorities instead of the dismissal of them because, as has been said, “it doesn’t affect me.”

MM: What is your everyday clothing staple? How would you describe your style? Does how you dress reflect your background, personality...etc?

CR: I dress in comfortable clothes that aren’t flashy or exposing. I grew up not very flashy and I wear what I can get at Old Navy. I wear a lot of Old Navy. Sorry if I’m not supposed to advertize for Old Navy, but I really like Old Navy.

Oh! Target is also fantastic.

MM: How would you describe yourself? (ex. conservative, loud, introvert, extrovert?) How would you describe yourself in social situations?

CR: I would describe myself as an introverted extrovert. I am very comfortable in situations where I am required to talk to people, such as fundraisers or dinner parties, but do not like to be doing something at all times during the day. I really appreciate the time I can have to study alone or to just sit and play my music out loud.

MM: What is your story behind finding self-love? If you haven’t, how are you looking for it?

CR: Throughout middle and high school, I was told I am “not really black” or “not really white” and found myself struggling to find where I truly fit. In my junior year of high school, I wrote a 4,000 word research paper to fulfill the Full International Baccalaureate requirements. I chose to write on the One Drop Rule and its role in the Civil Rights Movement.

While researching, writing and reflecting, I found that multiracial people have been doing amazing work for years now despite oppression doled out from every community. I found acceptance of my unique race.

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Huyen Vo MM: How does establishing your own selfidentify play a role in your self-esteem?

self-love, but that’s when I lean on my friends to help me out.

Huyen Vo: Establishing my own self-identity lets me be happy with who I am. I know that I am different from everyone and I’m perfectly fine with that. As a matter of fact, I am in love with the fact that I am different from everyone else. I’d rather stand out in a crowd than to blend in. I want people to see me for who I am and to accept what I have to offer. Having said that, being in love with my self-identity allows me to not care what others think and instead only worry about making sure that I’m happy with who I am.

MM: How would you describe yourself? (ex. conservative, loud, introvert, extrovert?) How would you describe yourself in social situations?

MM: What is your story behind finding self-love?

If you haven’t, how are you looking for it?

HV: For the longest time, I really struggled with self-love. I didn’t grow up in a very loving environment. My mom wasn’t very outwardly loving and I grew up without my dad. Aside from that, I also had my fair share of breakups so it’s been a[n] interesting journey when it comes to love. I was seeking love from others, when really I should have been learning to love what made me, me, and my strengths and weaknesses. It took me a long time to learn this, but at the end of the day, all you really have is yourself, and you need to really be happy with who are in order to do things head-on in your life. Some days, I struggle with

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HV: I would describe myself as someone who is bubbly, very extroverted, loud, and friendly. I have a tendency of being very bold, and I’m also a very direct, open and honest person. In social situations, it’s really easy for me to get to know other people. My openness, friendliness and my ability to relate to others makes it easy for me to meet people and to be able to converse with them. It’s really easy for me to meet new people and start conversations with them.

MM: Do you think there is a link for you personally between fashion and identity?

HV: I definitely do think there’s a link between my fashion and my identity. What people wear sets an impression on them, so when you meet someone, you definitely want to have a good first impression. For me, I usually like to dress in something that is more sophisticated, grown, but cute and sometimes even a little sexy. I want people to see that I’m a mature person who can carry herself well, but I also want to give a good impression by making myself look more appealing.

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Nesting

Why personalizing your space is an important part of self-care

BY LEAH VOSKUIL, LIFESTYLE EDITORIAL ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHED BY LEAH VOSKUIL You learn a lot about a person from their bedroom. The ability to freely self-define in an otherwise prepackaged, limited space is tested in your twenties. The thing is, once college rolls around, the leases get shorter, the square footage gets smaller and the budgets get tighter. It becomes a legitimate task to carve out a space that feels uniquely your own.

In an effort to break down the walls that are put up so willingly between ourselves and the outside world, students across University of Wisconsin-Madison’s campus opened their doors and invited Moda in for a discussion about design, comfort and individuality.

First and foremost, innovation is the mother of necessity. In order to progress, as everything does in one way or another, priorities adjust and design follows suit. This rings true in regard to every aspect of daily activity, but is perhaps most prevalent in regard to how twentysomethings adjust to ever-changing, evershrinking living situations.

Ben Golden, a self-proclaimed minimalist, is the proud owner of a “temperamental” succulent named Lennie, cares a lot about the blankets at the bottom of his bed and is focused on balancing the old with the

new, while keeping his square footage in mind.

“College is this strange limbo when you’re finally on your own and can start experimenting with your own space.

Every year of college I’ve moved to a new location and, each time, I reinvent my space to grow with me, my experiences and my developing identity,” Golden said.

Ben uses his succulent as a way to invigorate what would otherwise be considered a cramped living space. By incorporating natural greens into his bedroom, Ben transforms the atmosphere of his room in one quick, affordable (and minimal!) maneuver.

This emphasis on experimentation in the name of personal development is what proliferates good design and ultimately a more fulfilling life, according to social psychologist Mihály Csíkszentmihályi.1 The way in which Ben interacts and refines his space reflects not only what he prioritizes, but how he engages with the world at large.

Darby Hoffman, a Journalism and Gender and Women’s Studies double major, echos Ben’s sentiments of individuality and evolution, but includes stronger tones of nostalgia as a pillar of her aesthetic.

“My style is eclectic to say the least. I like to keep things feminine, yet fun, with lots of color and slightly kitschy decor,” Hoffman said.

Darby’s favorite part of her room right now is a reclaimed cabinet door with a quote from Dead Poet’s Society that she found with her mom while they were antique shopping for her first apartment a few years ago.

“The quote reads, ‘No matter what anybody tells you, words and ideas can change the world.’ I love this, because as a writer and a creative, it reminds me that the work I do matters,” Hoffman said. “It http://www.pursuit-of-happiness.org/history-of-happiness/mihaly-csikszentmihalyi/ 1

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holds a lot of memories for me in terms of sharing time with someone I love and becoming independent.”

The way in which Darby brings this notion of independence into her room was reiterated and expanded upon by Amileah, who is a firm advocate for turning your bedroom into a piece of meticulously crafted art in itself.

“I think nesting is really important, either when you move in or over time. Making the space you have a place you want to be is such an underlooked form of selfcare. Taking the time to control your environment pays off,” Sutliff said.

In curating art pieces as crafted by herself and others, twinkle lights intertwined with white tulle, vinyl and book collections, eight inches of “pure foam” on her bed and a photo of her mom, Amileah has created liveable artwork.

To consistently surround oneself with meaningful artifacts in a well-crafted environment, Amileah, Darby and Ben are waking up each morning in a handcrafted, highly personalized space. These direct reflections of value and individuality tend to the basic human needs of expression and balance in order to fulfill self-care. In other words, your bedroom is a space for complete freedom of thought, possibility and creativity. Your bedroom is a work of art. Let it liberate you.

PEXELS

Dx: A CASE OF OVERACHIEVER ANXIETY

BY JAMESON ZABALLOS, MEN’S EDITOR As a college student, there are many pressures and triggers for anxiety that each of us face, day in and day out. The pressure to follow society’s definition of success and progress starts to creep into our lives at a very young age, and at times our definitions of happiness are at odds with where we think we “should” be. Often, it’s surrounded by this insatiable, ravenous approach to always making decisions at the expense of happiness. A vicious cycle of pressure-free, momentary contentment against exam and application-induced anxiety occurs. It seems to college students that once we finally achieve the final goal of success we want, all of the anxiety and pressure will suddenly melt away. Even though this isn’t true, it’s a common mindset we fall into.

Setting yourself free from the constant barrage of anxiety and pressure to follow a path is, at times, downright impossible.

Being content no longer means the tranquility it used to when we were young, and is instead substituted for temporary happiness. I’ve been so excited to reach the goals I’ve set for myself - becoming Men’s Editor, getting a fantastic internship,

learning a new instrument - but almost immediately afterwards have fallen back into the “I can and should be doing more” mindset. I can do more, but it’s okay to be content with progress. So much of that anxiety and pressure is self-manufactured; it isn’t its own entity, but rather the downside of aspirations.

to be even more productive by clearing my mind before and after working hard.

It was weird; less time meant being more productive. Not only that, but my mental state was much improved. I found a way of liberating myself from that pressure because, well, it was all manufactured from within.

Taking a deep breath and stepping back to think about what is manufacturing and perpetuating this anxiety can go a long way, but there’s so much pressure on having a plan, making a decision or achieving these goals that it’s often difficult to think about them without feeling like you’re falling behind or becoming trapped in this idea of weakness.

Ultimately, not a ton about life needs to change to have a huge effect on how you deal with stress and anxiety.

Netflix, yoga, the gym, music and other resources can have a huge effect, even though they may feel like they’re not the most productive things to do. A healthy balance between the two can mean that the outlook of productivity includes these activities, allowing you to view them as plusses to productivity rather than detractors. Justifying the gap in between these periods of tangible productivity by filling them in with non-traditional productivity can be more beneficial than always devoting time to studying (or jobsearching, or whatever.) Ultimately, it’s up to you to know where that balance lies.

Overcoming and liberating yourself from that fear and anxiety is a powerful exercise.

Taking the time you need to recuperate, recollect and gather yourself is not only helpful, it’s absolutely necessary. I used to feel guilty when I went for bike rides on Saturday mornings because I thought, since I was awake, I had to be studying and I had to be 100% productive. By taking that time to decompress, I was allowing myself

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EVOLUTIONARY

BY ASHLEY NG, FASHION EDITORIAL ASSISTANT What’s your style? It’s a simple question at the surface. At the same time, it holds an often overlooked assumption that we all fit a particular label; a label that places expectations and restrictions on what we wear and what we wouldn’t wear. Perhaps we tend to claim a particular style for the sake of belonging to something bigger than us. There’s a feeling of security that comes with the familiarity of clothes. But sometimes, change is good.

Change can be invigorating and liberating.

Remember when Hedi Slimane took over Yves Saint Laurent in 2012? People were skeptical of his plans for revamping the brand. Slimane transformed the once sleek block colored pencil skirts to the flashy punk-rock patchwork and tulle dresses. Then, when current creative director Anthony Vaccarello took over, YSL underwent yet another makeover. Vaccarello’s vision for the brand was inspired by an appreciation of the past. In the Spring/Summer 2017 collection, he brought back puffy shoulders and one-shoulder leopard print dresses.

And how about when Phoebe Philo revolutionized Céline? Philo was determined to take the brand back to the basics. She

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shied away from chasing the latest trends and focused more on timeless pieces. Today, we all know Céline for its minimalist long coats, silk shirts, and leather bags. Philo believed these were the staples of a strong woman’s closet.

And finally, it simply wouldn’t be right if we didn’t acknowledge Raf Simons’s footprints at Christian Dior. Before he bade farewell to the powerhouse in 2015, he made some adjustments to the brand’s image that would resonate with consumers everywhere. Formerly known for its over-the-top theatrical pieces, Dior got a taste of practicality in the hands of Simons. Simons was sure to maintain the glamour and extravagance that is Dior. However, he ditched the excessive headpieces and dramatic dress trains. Simons made Dior more relatable for its audience.

If there’s one thing that holds true, it’s that fashion is dynamic and ever-changing. What was in yesterday is now a neglected pile of clothes in the back of your closet. You may feel disloyal betraying your former style, and you may even regret the changes you make. But maybe we could learn a thing or two from these successful rebranding stories and try shaking up our style.

“Philo was determined to take the brand back to the basics. She shied away from chasing the latest trends and focused more on timeless pieces.”

Céline SPRING/SUMMER 2009 VOGUE.COM

AUTUMN/WINTER 2016 VOGUE.COM

Yves Saint Laurent SPRING/SUMMER 2011 ELLE.COM

SPRING/SUMMER 2014 TOMANDLORENZO.COM

Dior FALL 2010 COUTURE

VOGUE.COM

2015 FALL COUTURE

VOGUE.COM

SPRING/SUMMER 2017 FASHIONWEEKDAILY.COM

“Simons was sure to maintain the glamour and extravagance that is Dior. However, he ditched the excessive headpieces and dramatic dress trains.”

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