Plastic: February 2021 Issue

EXPLORING THE Male Gaze in Media THE RESURGENCE OF Bimbo

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Allyson Konz

DEPUTY EDITOR

Kate Lawless ART DIRECTOR

Channing Smith

WUD PRESIDENT

Lily Miller

WUD PUBLICATIONS COMMITTE DIRECTOR

Evanka Annyapu

WUD PUBLICATIONS COMMITTE ADVISOR

Robin Schmoldt

ARTS CURATOR

Emma Gray

PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR Annika Ide

CREATIVE DIRECTORS

Sam Starks

Maria Dayneko

FASHION DIRECTOR

Sarah Troy

FASHION EDITOR Corbin Woessner

LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Shelby Evans

CULTURE EDITOR

Gabrielle Gronewold

ARTS EDITOR

Arella Warren

SOCIAL MEDIA AND MARKETING DIRECTOR

Jade Christensen

SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR

Talia Abbe

WRITERS

Kora Quinn • Gabrielle Gronewold • Abigail Crneckiy • Elizabeth Karnowski • Amanda Liebmann • Rachel Hale • Olivia Peters • Arella Warren

• Madison Targum • Mason Braasch • Gabriela Hertel • Kate Lawless •Emily Fleming

• Grace Reber • Jane Houseal • Manon Bushong • Shannon McManus

MODELS

Gabrielle Gronewold • Channing Smith • Jade Christensen • Rachel Hale • Alexa Hanson • Esperanza Herrera • Jessica Katz • Maya Greenberg • Emily Herzog • Kamryn Truesdale

ART

Emma Gray • Kate Madigan

• Channing Smith • Mac Gale • Ella Cunz • Riley August • Jade Christensen

PHOTOGRAPHY

Anna Janke • Jessica Tenenbaum • Hannah Hueber • Seth DeGier

• Annika Ide • Bela Orzechowski • Audrey O'Neill

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LIFESTYLE

8

Life in Plastic

The cultural implications of Barbie and where the brand is headed now

19

The Clique Effect

How portrayals of unhealthy friendships distort our perceptions about relationships

20

Single-Use Scam

Wisconsin should participate in a statewide ban of plastic bags

24

CULTURE ARTS

The Illusion of Modern Recycling

We need to shift our focus to reducing and reusing

34 Decriminalize Sex Work

Decriminalization is a necessary step to reforming the sex industry

44 Secret Surgeries

The negative impacts of celebrities denying or lying about plastic surgery

30

Art Without the Artist

Banksy redefines what it means to make art

38

The Male Gaze in Media

How catering to men’s desires defines femininity across media

45 Plastic Playlist

10 songs that are feminine polished perfection

26

Pretty Without Plastic

Try this plastic-free makeup to combat waste

27 Beyond Blonde

The history and resurgence of Bimbo Culture

29 Is Your Boyfriend Actually a Feminist

Take the quiz!

46

Make Insta Casual Again

The new social media trend that champions being real online

FASHION

6 Green is the New Pink

A shopping guide to sustainable fashion

22

The 2000s Are Calling

How to incorporate 2000s trends into your everyday style

33

From Spanx to Skims

How shapewear evolved from outdated undergarments to staples in today’s style scene

37 The Slow Future of Fashion

An exploration of Iris Van Herpen’s experimental and sustainable designs

FEATURED

12 Bubble

40 Dry Clean Only

Photographed by Bela Orzechowski, Staff Photographer

Dear Readers,

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Plastic began as a question that has been irritating me for years: Why is femininity, especially hyperfemininity, still equated with outdated gender norms? And, as a follow up, why do we continue to buy into these deeply patriarchal prejudices?

In this issue, I asked the Moda staff to explore these questions and challenge the stereotypes that surround femininity and what it means to be an authentic, transparent individual.

In Beyond Blonde, Jessica Katz and Maya Greenberg cover the history of Bimbos and how the word is being reclaimed and shared in new, inclusive ways. In the article Decriminalize Sex Work, Rachel Hale argues for the safety, social and economic benefits of decriminalizing sex work in the United States. Mason Braasch’s article Make Insta Casual Again encourages readers to let go of pursuing perfected, curated content on their social media channels. And, in Secret Surgeries, Liz Karnowski analyzes the lack of transparency surrounding public figures getting plastic surgery and the impact that has on society’s understanding of beauty standards.

Other staff members chose to write about plastic in a more literal sense. Kora Quinn wrote about the great American recycling scam, challenging readers to focus their energy and attention to reducing and reusing plastic. Gabriela Hertel critiques influencer’s for their makeup waste and provides options for plastic-free makeup and skincare products. And, Emily Fleming wrote about designer Iris van Herpen and her collections that draw from materials such as glass, silicone, metal lace and plastic.

Plastic may be one of my favorite issues. It tackles questions I have long asked myself about femininity and authenticity. I hope that this issue challenges readers to think about the ways in which they have defined femininity, leaving them with more questions than they started with. We can either choose to continue passively accepting these stereotypes and norms or begin actively challenging them. That is the beauty of Plastic: It is the cold, hard moment of realization before breaking free.

EDITOR IN CHIEF ALLYSON KONZ

DISCLOSURE

Since March of 2020, Moda Magazine has been committed to upholding and following CDC guidelines in the creation of our digital and print publications. For in-person photoshoots, this has entailed a minimum of two negative COVID tests, an entirely masked team directing the shoots, social distancing, and sanitation of any materials or props being touched.

Anyone involved in photoshoots are required to sign a document stating that they adhere to all of these guidelines in order to participate. At our shoots, models have been the only individuals unmasked, and then, they are only unmasked when photos are being taken. To see a full list of our guidelines and photoshoot practices, please visit www.modamadison.com. ■

Green is the New Pink

A SHOPPING GUIDE TO SUSTAINABLE FASHION

By Jane Houseal, Contributing Writer

Graphic by Jade Christensen, Social Media and Marketing Director

Establishing a more sustainable fashion industry is an essential component to battling the climate crisis. The fashion industry is responsible for 10% of the world’s carbon emissions and almost 20% of wastewater. Unfortunately, those unsettling statistics barely scratch the surface of the industry’s many flaws. Countless people are rallying for change as the dark side of fashion is exposed. Even though large corporations should bear the burden of stopping the environmental impacts due to their actions, consumers have the power to make personal changes.

Integrating sustainability into your closet is not just about changing where you shop. Consider mending your clothes, thrifting to find price accessible basics, and only buying things you will treasure, ultimately helping reduce waste and overconsumption. If supporting sustainable businesses is a change you want to make, there is no doubt that you will find a special piece from one of the many small artists and brands that benefit people and the planet.

K Í L É N T Á R

Kilentar is a Black-owned “fiercely feminine” collection that works with female artisans in Nigeria to create handwoven and dyed materials for their designs. The clothing is made to order and features stunning silhouettes including structured halter tops, corsets with balloon sleeves and bustier dresses.1

BÉYU

Beyu is a Houston, Texasbased Black-owned brand that designs clothes out of repurposed and eco-friendly fabrics such as linen and silk, for the women who maintain a “sexy and sustainable lifestyle.” The pieces range from flirty crop tops to maxi skirts. And they are perfect for a chic spring look you can dress up or down.2

Vanessa Mooney

Vanessa Mooney sources deadstock vintage fabrics, such as silk and satin, and turns them into romantic dresses and elegant corset tops. They’ve created several iconic dresses that each come in multiple colors and prints. Most notable is ‘The Elisabeth Dress,” a regal-looking bustier mini, and “The Venus Dress,” a midi with a plunging neckline and corset-like waist. Their clothing paired with their selection of curated, eclectic vintage jewelry (designed and made in LA) makes for a dream shopping experience.3

Paloma Wool

Somewhere on social media, you’ve probably seen your favorite fashion influencer wearing Paloma Wool. The brand features abstract prints on flattering, but simple tops and pants as well as on their funky knit dresses and sweaters. Paloma Wool recently worked with artist Astrid Terrazas, to create fitted tops that displayed her unique work. Due to its trendy patterns and exceptional knitwear, the transparency focused brand never disappoints.4

1 “Gbemileke Collection.” K Í L É N T Á R.

2 Béyu. “ABOUT.” BÉYU, www.shopbeyu. com/about.

3 “Jewelry, Clothing & Accessories For Lovers.” Vanessa Mooney.

4 Paloma Wool.

Big Bud Press

If you want to stand out in a crowd, the LA-based company, Big Bud Press is for you. Their colorful, unisex clothing is a eyecatching twist on closet staples such as jeans and tee shirts. They meticulously audit each part of the production process and have goals for 100% sustainable fabric by 2022.5

Offkut Studio

Run by a UK based designer, Isabel Christine, Offkut Studio produces one of a kind pieces made of fabric scraps from various manufacturers. Her printed mesh tops and are fresh and constantly on-trend, making them the perfect instagrammable alternative to popular fast fashion brands.6

Elia Vintage

Elia Vintage is a Black-owned online vintage store that offers personal styling. The curation is everything a vintage lover could want, including 100% silk slip dresses and a variety of pastel linen suit sets.7

Boyish Jeans

Looking for the perfect pair of jeans? Boyish Jeans has them. They create sustainable denim pieces inspired by vintage silhouettes while only using a third of the water typically used during the dying process. With multiple fits and washes, there is bound to be a flattering pair for each and every body type.8

Cool Is a Construct

Chloe Ney “Indulges in a world of glamour and playfulness” to design ethically made, confidence-boosting pieces for her New York-based brand Cool is a Construct. The brand’s sparkly printed tops and matching flare pants are quickly gaining popularity on social media, and rightfully so!9

■

5 “About Us.” BIG BUD PRESS.

6 OFFKUT Studio.

7 “Elia Styling.” Elia Vintage.

8 “About.” Boyish Jeans.

9 “About.” Cool Is A Construct, coolisa construct.com/pages/about.

By Gabrielle Gronewold, Culture Editor

Photographed by Jessica Tenenbaum, Staff Photographer

Modeled by Gabrielle Gronewold and Rachel Hale

The iconic image of Barbie began when Ruth Handler, co-founder of the toy company Mattel, witnessed her daughter feverishly playing with paper dolls. Handler was inspired to bring these playtimes to life by creating a 3-D doll. In 1959 the first-ever barbie doll, named after Handler’s daughter, Barbara, debuted at the New York Toy Fair.1

For Handler, Barbie was meant to be much more than a doll. “My whole philosophy of Barbie was that through the doll the little girl could be anything she wanted to be. Barbie always represented the fact that a woman has choices.”2

Since 1959 Barbie has had 180 careers and a plethora of fantasy roles and fashion designs. Over the decades, Barbie became a registered nurse in 1962, a pilot in 1999 and a game developer in 2016.3

By inspiring these careers, Barbie shifted female autonomy and independence. Prior to the Barbie doll, baby dolls that influenced Baby Boomers were limited to fulfilling maternal roles and other traditional gender norms.4 Barbie revolutionized girls into believing they could be independent and free, allowing them to imagine a future for themselves on their own terms.

In many ways, Barbie became an icon. She was fashionable and ahead of her time. Sporting looks from Christian Dior and the like as a high fashion image. Her figure was feminine and marked a change in female body trends in the 1960s.5 Barbie was much more than just a doll when it came to her cultural influence and implication.

In the post-war era, Barbie was critical in shaping and influencing teenager’s consumerism. The

1 Mattel, “The History of Barbie,” Barbie Mattel.

2 Ibid.

3 Ibid.

4 Forman-Brunell, Miriam, “What Barbie has to say about Postwar American Culture,” Smithsonian Education.

5 Ibid.

entirety of America had shifted away from the frugal habits of the depression and war-time and into mass consumption. Teenagers were inspired to buy all things Barbie, whether that be the Barbie dream house, Barbie clothes or even striving after records and books that Barbie owned herself.6

In 1959, Barbie’s personal autonomy was extremely influential and impacted both the second wave of feminism and the post-war economy. But from today’s perspective, Barbie’s cultural implications have been less than picture-perfect.

The current standard Barbie doll is 11.5 inches tall, giving a real-life height of 5 feet 9 inches and she is estimated to have a 36-inch chest, 18-inch waist and 33-inch hips.7 In Margo Maine’s book “Body Wars,” it’s claimed that if Barbie were a real person she’d likely have to walk on all fours due to her proportions and would likely not menstruate.8 Not to mention her feet are perpetually stuck on her tiptoes, ready for any pair of pumps for the rest of eternity. Barbie may be iconic and her body recognizable, but her figure is unnatural and problematic.

Although Mattel claims her figure was chosen for the ease of production, the shape and size of Barbie has had negative impacts on the children who play with her.9 A study found that young girls who were shown a Barbie doll photo had heightened body dissatisfaction after exposure, compared to no reaction after viewing a neutral control image of a doll.10 →

6 Ibid.

7 Hart, Anna, “Introducing the new, realistic Barbie: ‘The thing gap has officially gone,” The Telegraph, January 26, 2018.

8 Maine, Maine, Body Wars: Making Peace with Womens Bodies,” 2000.

9 Dittmar, Helga, Halliwell, Emma, “Does Barbie Make Girls Want to Be Thin?

The Effect of Experimental Exposure to Images of Dolls on the Body Image of 5- to 8-Year-Old Girls,” Research Gate, April 2006.

10 Ibid.

Even if Barbie may have the goals and aspirations to be anything she wants to be, she still has had negative impacts on the attitudes and outlooks of girls’ body images for too long. Additionally, the doneup image of independence and consumerism may have served its purpose in the 20th century, but pushes for gender equality and societal change look much different now.

Modern feminism is largely focused on intersectionality and the need for equality between all women of all identities. The quintessential Barbie is white, thin, blonde, cis-female. In fact, there wasn’t an official Black or Latina Barbie until 1980 and prior to that, there was only one Black Barbie named Christie from 1968, who was merely a side character as Barbie’s friend.11

Mattel has attempted to change this image by implementing and prioritizing diversity within the Barbie brand. The 2018 Hulu Documentary, “Tiny Shoulder: Rethinking Barbie” highlighted Mattel’s process in revamping the Barbie doll to include petite, curvy and tall sized barbie dolls under a plethora of careers, identities and talents.12

Today, there are more than 170 Barbie dolls with different skin colors and hairstyles to include all children. Some of these dolls include a Barbie with vitiligo, a hairless doll, a doll with a hijab and an entire line of genderneutral dolls. Mattel has made way for Barbie to be a universal and inclusive image.13

11 Holland, Brynn, “Barbie Through the Ages,” History, January 26, 2016.

12 Hulu. “Tiny Shoulders: Rethinking Barbie,” Hulu, 2016.

13 Beachum, Lateshia. “Barbie just got

The ability for Barbie to change with the times is a part of the reason why the doll has stood the test of time. Barbie is one of the only toys on the market that has stayed prevalent over the last 60 years.14 And it really comes down to her ability to fluctuate with trends — and adjust to the societal needs of consumers.

Barbie even picked up vlogging a few years ago, boasting 10.3 million Youtube subscribers where she chooses to discuss topics such as racism and white privilege, as well as topics such as depression. Barbie having a platform where she chooses to positively influence viewers on important topics is impactful, but it’s important to remember the moments in which Barbie’s image has not fostered societal change.

The Barbie doll emerged during the civil rights movement and was maintained as a cis-white, wealthy figure for far too long. Barbie, who had a dream house, a sports car and everything in-between, wasn’t worried about racism and diversity at a crucial and important time. Just because Mattel can be celebrated for its moves toward inclusion, diversity and activism today, doesn’t mean the lasting cultural image of Barbie isn’t problematic. Holding Mattel accountable for these faults as they continue to grow the Barbie brand is essential to ensuring the individual, revolutionized version of Barbie lives on. ■

even more diverse, as Mattel adds dolls with vitiligo and no hair,” Washington Post, January 29, 2020.

14 Witcom, Gemma. “Is Barbie Relevant?” Fast Company. March 16, 2019.

Barbie, who had a dream house, a sports car and everything in-between, wasn’t worried about racism and diversity at a crucial and important time.

Is Your Boyfriend Actually A Feminist? QUIZ!

By Kate Lawless, Deputy Editor

Casual

misogyny is rampant in today's society, even amongst the wokest of indie boys. So even if he publicly supports feminism via Instagram infographics and voted for Hillary Clinton in 2016, he still may be unlearning misogynistic tendencies. So here’s Moda’s checklist for seeing if your boyfriend, or friend who is a boy, is actually a feminist. If he checks any of these boxes, it’s time to have a conversation about his latent misogyny and how it may be affecting your relationship.

Does he not want you to masturabate or use toys during sex because it makes him feel like he isn’t enough for you?

Does he think you should be responsible for birth control (i.e. getting an IUD or implant, taking the pill, etc.) but refuses to wear a condom because “It doesn’t feel as good?”

If you checked these blue boxes, there may be a sexist double standard or two in your sex life. Sexual safety is the responsibility of all involved parties, not just women who are trying to avoid pregnancy. And beyond that, sex is supposed to feel good, and he should support you exploring your sexuality in other ways than only having penetrative sex with him.

Does he feel threatened by your female friendships and say things like, “You spend too much time with them,” or “You always listen to them instead of me.”

Does he compliment you by putting down other women?

If you checked these light pink boxes, you might want to chat about the importance of female relationships. Female friendships and role models are positive impacts in both of your lives. Don’t let stereotypes about women prevent you both from building empathy for other girls or miss out on great relationships!

Does he think that female artists writing about sex or relationships is “overdone” or “inappropriate (See Cardi B and Taylor Swift) but thinks it’s okay when male artists write about the exact same things?

Does he think women just naturally aren’t as funny as men?

Does he just not seem to be interested in music, movies or books with women in leading roles?

Does he hold racist or sexist appearance or behavior standards for women but defends it is a “preference?”

If you checked these hot pink boxes, your boyfriend might be inadvertently listening to stereotypes about women and therefore only like those of whom fit the stereotypes he is most familiar with. While he might mask his preferences for women’s behavior as just that, those ideas may be rooted in historical misrepresentations of women that still limit their opportunities and happiness today. Women are just as complex, funny, sexual, smart and diverse as men.

Does he undercut discussions about systemic women’s issues by saying things like “Not All Men” or “but that happens to men too?”

Does he dismiss his friends’ creepy behavior towards women because “it was just a joke?” or “it’s not that big of a deal?”

If you checked any of these yellow boxes, you should talk about how we as a society need to listen to women. Undercutting or dismissing women when they are uncomfortable or unsafe is deeply unhelpful and just reinforces the patriarchal system in which male voices are louder than women’s. To be a better ally (and a better boyfriend), you have to be a better listener. ■

BUBBLE

Styled by Sarah Troy, Fashion Director

Photographed by Annika Ide, Photography Director, and Bela Orzechowski, Staff Photographer

Set Assistance by Allyson Konz, Editor in Chief

Modeled by Esperanza Herrera

The Clique Effect

Written by Abigail Crneckiy,

by

The

word “clique” has a negative connotation, and in many cases, the stigma is warranted. If you grew up with American pop culture, you’re probably familiar with the stories of the mean girl clique and the less popular girl. We see examples of toxic social groups everywhere, most notably with the Plastics in “Mean Girls,” and with the Pretty Committee in popular book series “The Clique” by Lisi Harrison. These narratives give young women unhealthy stereotypes about what friendship and socialization should look like.

One important aspect of a clique is the necessity for members to prove themselves worthy. In pop culture depictions like “Mean Girls” and “The Clique,” these qualifications are often based on appearance and wealth. Between dress codes, grooming requirements and codes of conduct, many of these requirements are either hindered or promoted by the family’s economic status. However, cliques aren’t always about appearance or money. Membership can also be based on various behavioral and performative requirements.

There are cliques for every social group, including jocks, brainiacs, musicians, stoners, etc., all of which are dependent on some type of performance. To fit in, you must be good at your sport and workout often, get good grades and participate in academic competitions, have a high chair rank and practice endlessly; the list goes on and on.

Cliques can and do form anywhere, but Stanford researchers have found that larger schools with more elective choice “accentuate the quest by adolescents for friends who are similar to themselves, an instinct that sociologists call ‘homophily.’”1 Due to the expansive friend group options, class options and extracurricular options, students naturally sort by interest while also clustering by race, gender, age and socioeconomic status as the freedom and uncertainty causes them to cling to those that feel familiar.

All of these social restrictions and hierarchies, coupled with the need and desire to belong to a group, are harmful to students. In an NPR

1 E. L. Andrews, “Stanford Researcher Explores Why Cliques Thrive in Some High Schools More than Others,” Stanford University, Nov. 6, 2014.

reporting project called “The Secret Lives of Students,” middle school students discuss how the stress of belonging and proving themselves to their peers makes it difficult to concentrate in school and perform well academically.2 Whether your peer group has clear expectations or not, the preoccupation with always wondering if you are good enough is a major hindrance for learning, and Western pop culture representations only intensify these feelings.

Speaking from experience, I read “The Clique” series when I was in middle school. In the books, the Pretty Committee requires that their initiate Claire shaves her legs every other day, and they check by using a q-tip to see if the cotton catches on any hair.3 This expectation invaded my pre-teen mind and I became mortified at the thought of having hairy legs. Even though I could see that other girls didn’t shave their legs as frequently and still maintained their social standing, for years I could not release the fictional expectation that had consumed me. This experience could not have been unique to me.

Cliques are harmful, but this doesn’t mean that all friend groups are. So what makes a clique different from a regular group of friends? A clique includes clear or purposeful exclusivity and often a code of membership — spoken or unspoken — that hinges on behavior, appearance or performance of some kind.4 Cliques don’t only occur in middle school and high school either, but follow us all throughout our adult lives.

As we gravitate toward those we identify with, it is important to be mindful of possibilities for harmful exclusion, choosing instead to purposefully welcome others in. We must avoid romanticizing the exclusivity exhibited in pop culture and instead share stories and practice positive friendship by building off of our commonalities with others. In the process, we can create stronger bonds and an actual sense of accountability, and avoid “plastic” identities and unrealistic expectations. ■

2 S. Gonzalez, “The Secret Lives of Stu dents: How Cliques Make It Hard to Con centrate in Class,” StateImpact Florida, July 12, 2012.

3 L. Harrison, The Clique, Little, Brown and Company, 2004

4 K. Hoffses (Reviewed), “Coping With Cliques (for Teens),” Nemours KidsHealth, July 2018.

Single-Use Scam

WISCONSIN SHOULD PARTICIPATE IN A STATEWIDE BAN OF PLASTIC BAGS

By Amanda Liebmann, Contributing Writer Graphic by Kate Madigan

Witha simple walk around the grocery store or your kitchen pantry the issue is clear: there is too much plastic. It’s nearly unfathomable to envision our world without plastic, but with the state of the Earth’s climate, it’s the direction in which we need to go.

The dire need to cut down on single-use plastic has caused some states to take action by implementing a ban on plastic bags in large retail stores. Singleuse plastic bags are one of the leading causes in harming our environment and contributing to our overburdened landfills.1

Because of their lightweight nature, plastic bags have overpopulated both our land and water.2 One million marine animals are killed by plastic every year, and if we don’t take action by 2050 there will be more plastic than fish in our oceans.3

There are currently eight states participating in a statewide ban on single-use plastic bags including California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New York, Oregon and Vermont.4 Many of these states have also added a bag tax for shoppers that choose to buy plastic bags, a strategy used to stress the idea that whether or not plastic is reusable, it will still never fully break down. However, this added tax can be a significant cost for low-income families.5

Individual grocery stores have also been taking initiatives

1 “25+ Powerful Reasons Why Plastic Bags Should Be Banned Immediately,” Conserve Energy Future, July 3, 2020

2 Ibid

3 “Plastic Pollution Facts: PlasticOceans. org/the-Facts,” Plastic Oceans International, January 20, 2021

4 Jennifer Schultz, “State Plastic Bag Legislation,” State Plastic Bag Legislation, November 18, 2020

5 Shane Shirley and Shane Shirley, “Home,” Reusable Bags WholesaleFactory Direct Promos, March 27, 2018,

to replace plastics with other materials. For example, Trader Joe’s uses compostable produce bags and paper grocery bags.6 They even take their initiative a step further by giving raffle tickets for gift cards to customers who bring their own bags. Other grocers, including Whole Foods and Mom’s Organic Market, offer credits of a few cents for customers who bring bags.

A logical next step would be adding Wisconsin to the list of states that have banned plastic bags, or at the very least, Madison. In 2016, a bill was passed by the Wisconsin Legislature that banned municipalities from enacting plastic bag bans.7 While multiple media outlets spoke up about being against the bill and stating that banning single-use plastic was a good thing, the state government stood by the bill.

We can’t ignore the need to retire single-use plastic. Of course, this is a daunting task, as it may very well be one of the biggest societal upheavals we see unravel in the next few decades. Simple tasks like replacing your toothbrush with one made from bamboo, buying a hemp or flax phone case and getting glass containers instead of plastic tupperware can create major changes in our planet. Reinventing these necessary plastic products along with getting rid of singleuse plastic will be the most challenging, yet most rewarding task our world will face.

■

6 Allison Steele, “For Earth Day, Check out These Grocery Store Initiatives - and Customer Incentives - for Replacing Plastics,” The Philadelphia Inquirer, April 22, 2019

7 FOX 6 Now Milwaukee, “Battle over Plastic Bags: Why They Won’t Be Banned in Wisconsin,” FOX6 News Milwaukee, July 28, 2020

The 2000s Are Calling

HOW TO INCORPORATE 2000s TRENDS INTO YOUR EVERYDAY STYLE

Written by Manon Bushong, Assistant Fashion Editor • Photographed by Seth DeGier, Staff Photograher • Modeled by Channing Smith and Jade Christensen

The most definable constant of modern fashion culture is that it is entirely cyclical. Fashion trends reappear every few decades, manifesting in different and new forms, ultimately holding timeless and immortal themes. As a member of Generation Z, I have witnessed a variety of fashion seasons inspired by prior decades, such as the obsession with all things 90s. However, the most recent time period inspired fashion trend happens to be the first that I lived through: the 2000s.

“Y2K” or year two thousand could easily be the most popular search on second hand fashion websites such as Depop. The 2000s are all the rage at the moment, as modern style icons embrace themes from this decade. After years and years of high waisted jeans being the go to denim, the low rise style of the 2000s is finally coming back. This low rise trend even extends to mini skirts which were an “it piece” of the early 2000s. Socialites from this time, such as Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie, and Hilary Duff, were nearly always photographed in low rise buttons. This trend may be the most controversial amongst the recent Y2K fad, as many feel this style is unflattering and are opposed to the “whale tail” trend ever resurfacing. However, whether or not you choose to bring back low rise, there are several other popular ways to embrace the return of the 2000s.

One prominent way people are incorporating Y2K fashion into their looks today is through baby tees. Small cropped, often graphic tops paired with low rise bootcut jeans screams early 2000s, but in recent times, it has also become a recent trend.

You can take this look up a notch through sporting a baby tee with a bedazzled pattern, maybe even a butterfly, in order to truly capture the essence of this decade.

One iconic 2000s brand known for their graphics that is making a colossal comeback is Von Dutch. Tank tops, graphic tees, and trucker hats from this line are blowing up on Depop and being flaunted by modern day “socialites,” now referred to as influencers. Additionally, brands such as Juicy Couture and Ed Hardy that reigned over the 2000s have recently been available in popular retail stores such as Urban Outfitters.

In the early 2000s, socialites such as the notable Paris Hilton, would wear lacy, babydoll style tops resembling lingerie (sometimes actually being actual lingerie) out in public. Recently, a Victoria Secret lace bra top, shown on a model wearing nothing but coordinating underwear, was

trending on TikTok. However, those who purchased this popular piece style it with jeans or a cute skirt, possibly even under a cardigan or blazer, proving that the lingerie-asstreetwear trend is far from over. Additionally, it’s also popular to layer lace bodysuits over white mock neck shirts to incorporate this style into one’s winter wardrobe.

Recently, there has been a number of Y2K accessory trends making their way onto the racks of today’s trendiest stores. One notable example is the baguette bag, a hybrid of recent bag trends such as the micro purse and the tote bag. These small shoulder purses are definitely a size up from the recently trendy micro bag, but less bulky than a tote. A few retailers offering cute baguette bags at affordable prices are ASOS, Zara, and Mango.1 These stylish purses can take any Y2K outfit to the next level, and there are endless varieties of patterns, colors, and textiles that they can be paired with.

Clothing isn’t the only Y2K trend that is gaining popularity this year. The recent “e-girl” hair moment heavily resembles iconic hairstyles of 2000s popculture figures, such as Avril Levigne and Christina Agulara. Whether it be a contrasting blonde and brown dyed hair look, recently seen on Dua Lipa, or a pop of color in one’s front pieces, there is no denying modern popular hairstyles are a tribute to the 2000s. After Montgomery, J. (2019, August 15). The One Bag Trend You Really Don’t Need to

years of natural highlights and balayage styles dominating hair trends, chunky highlights are also making a comeback.

The best thing about the cyclical nature of the fashion industry is that it’s so easy to find trendy pieces second hand. Consider hitting up your local thrift shop if you are planning to take part in this trend, as you can surely

find a cool piece no one else will have, while also remaining environmentally friendly. There is also no shortage of stylish Y2K pieces on second hand sites such as Poshmark and Depop.

The revival of the 2000s in the fashion industry brings sparkles, pastels, and nostalgia that is sure to aid with any pandemic blues.

The Illusion of Modern Recycling

By Kora Quinn, Culture Staff Writer

Photographed by Anna Janke, Contributing Photographer

Between

1960 and 2017, the amount of trash going to landfills decreased by 42% as recycling became more popular and even enforced in select areas.1 Yet despite its rise in popularity, recycling as we know it today wasn’t always possible in America. It’s an expensive process; the recycled waste has to be transported to a facility with enough staff and equipment to process it, things that cost more money than you can make off of the products the waste gets turned into.

In the 1990s, two decades after curbside recycling went into effect, China started buying U.S. recyclables. Christopher

1 “When Did Americans Start Recycling?” History, 2020.

Joyce shared with NPR that at the time, “China had plenty of capacity to handle plastics and lots of cheap laborers to sort the recyclable materials from the non recyclable. By 2016, the U.S. was exporting almost 700,000 tons a year to China alone. Overall, China imported 7 million tons from around the world.” 2

Although it created other environmental issues elsewhere (e.g. pollution), for a while, this system worked. The U.S. would ship its recyclables to China, who would process the waste into new products and then ship it back to be sold again in America. That is, until 2017 when China announced they would be implementing a new plastic ban under a policy known as the National Sword. Under this 2 Joyce, Christopher. “Where Will Your Plastic Trash Go Now That China Doesn’t Want It?”

NPR, 2019.

WE NEED TO SHIFT OUR FOCUS TO REDUCING AND REUSING

policy, China would prohibit the purchase and importation of foreign waste that’s damaged or isn’t properly cleaned, including single-use and nonindustrial plastics.3 This meant that the U.S. had to start shipping their waste to other Southeast Asian countries, such as Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia, who have slowly started closing their borders to U.S. waste as well.4

Despite the National Sword going into effect in 2018, recycling in America hasn’t changed. Once a week, families all over the country put out their blue bins for the city to pick up.

My apartment building still has a dumpster marked “Recycling Only” where I throw my yogurt containers and Nutella jars. If you stopped someone on the street, they might not even know China handled our recycling process in the first place.

This begs the question: does recycling actually work? The short answer is no. China implemented their plastic ban because the majority of U.S. waste coming in wasn’t cleaned and most of it was contaminated, making the recycling process either more difficult or impossible. It also contributed immensely to their pollution problems.

In America, recycling doesn’t work for three main reasons.

3 “What is the National Sword?” Center for EcoTechnology, 2018.

4 Joyce, Christopher. “Where Will Your Plastic Trash Go Now That China Doesn’t Want It?” NPR, 2019.

First, recycling regulations are inconsistent from place to place. Many different cities and states have varying guidelines when it comes to curbside recycling. For example, in Madison you cannot put recyclables in plastic bags because they get caught in the machines used to process the waste.5 However, in smaller towns throughout Wisconsin, there are no regulations on how to collect recyclables other than placing them in a blue bin on trash day. Due to a lack of federal recycling laws in the U.S., some states and cities across the country don’t have recycling available at all.

The second reason recycling doesn’t work is just general confusion. Many Americans aren’t educated on proper recycling methods and contamination. Not everyone knows that you should rinse containers such as milk jugs and peanut butter jars, or that food or grease on any kind of paper or cardboard renders it contaminated and thus unrecyclable.

And finally, now that China isn’t buying U.S. waste, nearly all plastics aren’t recyclable anymore. It’s too expensive and they degrade faster than other materials, so they can only be made into new products once or twice.

So why is there such a push to continue recycling these plastics then? The answer is money. The oil industry has been selling the idea that plastic can be recycled because if the public believes it can, they will continue buying more of it. “But [plastic is] not valuable, and it never has been,” writes NPR’s Laura Sullivan. “And what’s more, the makers of plastic — the nation’s largest oil and gas companies — have known this all along, even as they spent millions of dollars telling the American public the opposite.”6

Our recycling isn’t going anywhere and plastic can’t even

5 “Recycling Guidelines,” City of Madison, 2021.

6 Sullivan, Laura. “How Big Oil Misled The Public Into Believing Plastic Would Be Recycled,” NPR, 2020.

be recycled in the first place — so what can we do? If you remember the age-old mantra we were taught in elementary school, “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” you’re on the right track to beating the plastic problem. When it comes to “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle,” recycling is listed as our last option, meaning we must emphasize reducing and reusing heavily. Better yet, you can implement a new mantra of “Reduce, Reuse, Refurbish, Repair, Recycle” into your daily lifestyle.

Rethink every purchase and make a conscious effort to reduce consumption and waste. If a purchase is necessary, try to reuse it. Invest in reusable menstrual products, makeup remover pads and washable napkins. Get handy too; you can buy used products and refurbish them. This goes for anything from furniture to clothing. If you need a new desk, find one someone doesn’t want anymore and paint it. Learn to sew and repair clothes yourself as opposed to throwing things out and creating more waste.

While taking these steps is important and a great way to make sure you are individually contributing to a greener world in an impactful way, ethical consumerism can be problematic if it’s the only way you try to make a difference. It puts all the blame for greenhouse gas emissions and unnecessary waste on the consumer all while encouraging consumerism, even if it’s with sustainable products. Being a consumer activist is truly the alternative to simply placing plastics in a blue bin. Hold plastic manufacturers, or gas and oil companies, responsible through direct action.

Modern recycling is an illusion manufactured by corporations responsible for the majority of greenhouse gas emissions, but it would also take a cultural reset to redesign to be more effective. We continue to recycle because we feel as if it’s our only option, but it should be our last option. ■

Pretty Without Plastic

PLASTIC-FREE MAKEUP TO COMBAT PLASTIC WASTE CREATED BY TRENDS

By Gabriela Hertel, Contributing Writer

Hasanyone else become obsessed with online shopping recently? Since the start of quarantine, it’s been hard to find things to look forward to. So, the obvious solution in my mind was to shop online for new things I could entertain and express myself with, in the comfort of my home. That’s what led me to my interest in experimenting with makeup. There’s nothing like waiting for a package of exciting new palettes, brushes and glitters to show up at my doorstep. I’m sure many of you also had the same idea in quarantine, wanting to have the ability to create any look.

Keeping up with beauty influencers is great for learning about new products or styles, and many have loyal fans who trust their brand endorsements. The downside to this is that they also unintentionally create waste in the homes of their fans by promoting a consumerist approach to using makeup. For example, if I see Rihanna promoting a new highlighter that seems more desirable than the one I have, I’m now inclined to purchase it. But what happens to my old highlighter? It most likely ends up in a pile of unused items, inevitably headed for the trash.

An easy fix to this issue is, instead of buying more makeup, buy different makeup! Plastic-free makeup that is. Here are some brands that are eco-friendly and make plastic-free makeup products. This short list is a great way to start on your new plastic-free cosmetics journey! Everyday small actions such as buying plastic-free makeup make a positive impact on the earth. Now, we can start this journey together!

Fat and the Moon

Fat and Moon is a unique brand, having their products made with organic plants and oils. The three products they sell are lip, eye and cheek colors, some even being all three of these combined, coming in a range of beautiful reds and pinks. These products come in reusable and recyclable packaging, and they try their best to reduce their packaging as much as possible.

1

1 Fat and the Moon.

Elate

This brand does use some recyclable plastic, but they try to stick to more sustainable and recyclable materi als like aluminum, glass, bamboo and seed paper. I’m including them in this list because they have a huge range of products, allowing you to get pretty much anything you need in a minimal-waste way. All of their products are 100% cruelty-free, gluten-free, vegan and 75% organic!

1

1 “About Us.” Elate Beauty.

Aether

If you want more of a dramatic look, and want to add color to your eyes, Aether is the brand for you. Their beautiful eyeshadow palettes are made completely out of paper, and their packaging is almost 100% recyclable. Plus, they put crystals in their eyeshadow, so how can you say no?!

1

1 Aether Beauty. Aether Beauty.

Keeping it Natural

This affordable brand has cruelty-free, vegan, gluten-free, and ——you guessed it — plas tic-free products. All of their products are made by hand. They have mascara, lip color and cheek products in many different colors, such as rosy pinks, bold reds, cool purples and sandy browns.1

1 Kellogg, Kathryn. “17 Zero Waste Makeup Brands.” Going Zero Waste, September 11, 2020.

RMS

RMS sells pretty much everything, and it all comes in small recycled glass pots. All of their products are nonGMO, soy-free, gluten-free (except for the volumizing mascara!) and cruelty-free. 1 ■

1Credo. “RMS Beauty.” Credo.

Beyond Blonde

THE HISTORY AND RESURGENCE OF BIMBO CULTURE

By Jessica Katz, Lifestyle Editorial Assistant and Maya Greenberg, Contributing Writer

Photographed by Hunter Kiehl, Staff Photographer

Modeled by Jessica Katz and Maya Greenberg

Howmany bimbos does it take to change a lightbulb?

Women, particularly those considered a “bimbo” or “dumb blonde,” often find themselves as the punchline of jokes like these. Society often views women who look pretty and act dumb as bimbos, just as they view women who are sexually empowered as sluts and women who are older, yet hot, as MILFs. The assumption seems to be that if a woman looks good, she’s more of a caricature than a person.

Though originally used to describe a “foolish and inconsequential man,” the modern usage can be tied back to Irving Berlin’s 1920 song “My Little Bimbo Down on the Bamboo Isle,” which tells the story of a pretty, carefree girl who seduces a young sailor.1

In the late 1920s, director Jack Conway further popularized the idea of a bimbo as being an unintelligent, sexually attractive woman, often sporting beautiful blonde hair. His film "Our Modern Maidens" revolved around the love life of a carefree heiress, one of the blueprints for bimbos.

The 1980s were the decade of bimbo representation, filled with scandals surrounding 1 Melissa. “The Origin of the Word Bimbo.” Today I Found Out, March 3, 2015.

Today’s concept of bimbofication is to transform yourself into your own idea of beauty, no matter who you are.

beautiful young women. In 1987, rumors circulated that former Senator Gary Hart had an extramarital affair with Donna Rice, CEO of Enough Is Enough. Although intelligent and highly successful, media attention focused on Rice’s appearance, characterizing her as Hart’s blonde and beautiful bimbo.2

Model Jessica Hahn also came to attention that year after accusing televangelist Jim Bakker of rape when she worked as a church secretary. Media outlets took this event lightly, labeling the rape a scandal and sexualizing the victim. After gaining the media’s attention, Hahn focused on building a career around her sexuality, which included posing nude in Playboy, while remaining committed to her faith. In her words, “people will always consider me a cartoon character, a bimbo. They will never give me credit.”3

The 90s saw a new era of iconic bimbos — “booby blondes, supermodels and reality TV stars”4 — launched to fame through new, popular media like MTV. One name we all know is

2 Ibid.

3 Ibid.

4 Cortés, Michelle Santiago. “No Thoughts. Head Empty. Just Vibes: The Rise Of The New Age Bimbo.” New Age Bimbos and Bimbofication TikTok Trend. Accessed January 26, 2021.

Paris Hilton, the beautiful blonde heiress to the Hilton-Hotel fortune.5 Her world has always been filled with fame and power, which fueled her modeling and socialite career early in life. By 16, Hilton was known as “New York’s Leading IT Girl.” Known as a wild party girl, anywhere Hilton would go everyone else would follow.

Despite being branded as a “dumb blonde,” Hilton has been successful in multiple ventures, including reality television, modeling, and music. She also helped Kim Kardashian rise to fame, thus launching the Kardashian empire. Hilton revitalized the bimbo idea in the 90s, but proved to be much more than a dumb blonde with her media savvy and iconic style.

Other well known bimbos are the iconic Playmates. Hugh Hefner was known for having lavish parties with his “house bunnies,” Playboy models that lived with him in the Playboy Mansion. 6 By 2005, the house bunnies had their own show about life in the mansion titled, 5 Linch, Caroline. “A Timeline of Paris Hilton’s Fame: From Socialite to Business Mogul”. Celebrity Page, September 24, 2020.

6Graham, Ruth. “The E! Reality Show The Girls Next Door Was the Best Thing Hugh Hefner Ever Gave Us”. Slate, September 29, 2017.

“The Girls Next Door.” Focusing on three of Hefner’s closest house bunnies, Holly Madison, Kendra Wilkinson and Bridget Marquardt, the show forced them to exist as “the kind of fun, sexy, DTF gal promoted by the Playboy brand.” 7 Today, the sexualized approach to the bimbo label associated with the Playmates has evolved into sex-positivity.

Now in the 2010s, TikTok has repopularized the concept of bimbos with “BimboTok,”8 thus launching the careers of the next generation of bimbos. This online community prioritizes self-confidence and inclusivity, while putting a new spin on the pink bimbo aesthetic.

One popular name in this modern resurgence is social media influencer Chrissy Chlapecka. Aside from posing in cute outfits and makeup, Chlapecka openly posts about her prochoice, pro-sex work and proBLM beliefs. To her, “The bimbo is somebody who radiates confidence, is comfortable in themself, and doesn’t give a fuck about what anyone says to them.”9 On BimboTok, bimbos come in all shapes, sizes and gender identities.

Today’s concept of bimbofication is to transform yourself into your own idea of beauty, no matter who you are. Today’s bimbos hope to reclaim the term without it being derogatory, allowing individuals of all racial, gender and sexual identifications to embrace their sexualities.10

Building on the sex-positive, media savvy legacy of the bimbos through the ages, this new generation of self-identified bimos reclaimed this label. Now, one chooses to be a bimbo because it makes you happy. ■

7 Ibid.

8 Cortés, Michelle Santiago. “No Thoughts. Head Empty. Just Vibes: The Rise Of The New Age Bimbo.” New Age Bimbos and Bimbofication TikTok Trend.

Accessed January 26, 2021

9 Ibid.

10 Ibid.

Art without the Artist

BANKSY REDEFINES WHAT IT MEANS TO MAKE ART

Written by Arella Warren, Arts Editor

Photos contributed by Channing Smith, Art Director

Mysterious, faceless, and easily one of the most iconic artists of our generation: Banksy. Yet who is this enigmatic figure, really? And what is their aim? It is a question that has been pondered for years as street art tagged by Banksy has cropped up all around the world.

In case you aren’t familiar with the artist’s elusive activities, “Banksy” is only a pseudonym, and it has long protected the identity of the individual lurking behind the mask. Although there is a massive amount of theory and speculation on this subject, Banksy’s true identity remains anonymous to the general public.

We do have some details about Banksy’s life and interests, but only those that the artist chooses to disclose to us — even then, our knowledge is limited. Countless explanations have been conjured up by Banksy’s former associates, fans, and other news organizations, though all these sources can really offer us is an unverified guess.

Some of the most common rumors cite the names of Robin Gunningham and Robert Del Naja, given their correlation to Bristol, England, Banksy’s confirmed hometown, and their similarities in art style.1 Others claim that Banksy is actually a team of artists.2 Still, all we can really confirm is that Banksy is a talented artist with a lot more to say.

While the question of who Banksy is is certainly an interesting one, I don’t think it matters as much as people think. Society and the media get so caught up in the who of it all when the more valuable thing to consider here is the what and the why. Regardless of Banksy’s private life, the voice that he projects to the public is an exceptionally impactful one.

Banksy’s public work can be traced back to the early 1990s with their participation

1 J. Rogers, “Banksy gives glimpse of his face in ‘very rare’ interview unearthed from 16 years ago,” The Sun, July 4, 2019.

2 K. Nichols and A. Duncan, “BanksyBiography and Legacy,” The Art Story, Feb. 16, 2021.

Photographs from Banky exhibit at MOCA Amsterdam

in Bristol’s graffiti gang, the DryBreadZ Crew.3 Though they started out as a freehand graffiti artist, they quickly developed a unique and captivating style of their own through the use of intricate stencils, gaining a public following in the process.4 Their audience and attraction has only increased since then, as Banksy’s art continues to make a bold statement.

A street artist’s work is often lost in the masses of tags and vandalism that fills the cities: But the anonymous Banksy stands out. Some of their appeal is certainly in their mystery, but it would be a massive discredit to Banksy to overlook the powerful message behind their art. Banksy’s work often touches on politicallycharged topics such as warfare, capitalism, commodification, pop culture advertising, and greed, offering a critical commentary on these issues and serving to highlight the hypocrisies and faults of modern-day government through their satirical edge. →

3 Ibid. 4 Ibid.

A street artist’s work is often lost in the masses of tags and vandalism that fills the cities: But the anonymous Banksy stands out.

Banksy’s art features recurring visual motifs, such as rats, children, balloons, and policemen, and is often done entirely in black and white stencil with accents of red or other bright pops of color. Many of these pieces are paired with a sharp slogan or quote, altogether forging an aesthetic which has become characteristically “Banksy.” Even so, graffiti isn’t the only medium Banksy shines in.

Throughout the early 2000s, having already established a name for themself, Banksy began creating and publicizing a range of three-dimensional works and interactive art installations. Notably, their exhibit featuring a live elephant in the room; their production and public distribution of thousands of stylized ten pound notes, featuring the caption “Banksy of England”; their unsolicited installment of a Guantanamo Bay prison camp doll at Disneyland; and their choice to fill a slaughterhouse delivery truck with stuffed animals that was driven around cities, among others.5 You might already be familiar with Banksy’s 2010 documentary, titled “Exit Through the Gift Shop,” and nominated for an Academy Award.6

As the hype around Banksy continues to rise, so does their public worth. Their stencils have been sawed out of concrete walls to be sold at auction houses, while celebrities and art curators have spent upwards of millions on acquiring an authentic Banksy piece.7 Still, this was never the artist’s initial intention. Banksy has been quoted to say “Commercial success is a mark of failure for a graffiti artist. We’re not supposed to be embraced in that way.”8'

At the end of the day, it seems that Banksy chooses to lead such an obscure and anonymous career because it isn’t about them — it’s about the message, and the way that art is able to deliver that message in such a momentous way.

5 K. Nichols and A. Duncan, “BanksyBiography and Legacy,” The Art Story, Feb. 16, 2021.

6 Biography.com Editors, “Banksy Biog raphy,” The Biography.com website, April 2, 2014.

7 K. Nichols and A. Duncan, “BanksyBiography and Legacy,” The Art Story, Feb. 16, 2021.

8 Ibid.

For all the praise Banksy has received, there has been an equal amount of criticism. Many critics have claimed that Banksy is a sellout given the amount of commercial interest they have received, and don’t appreciate their straightforward stencil style. Others reproach Banksy for their unsolicited displays of graffiti and raise cries of vandalism, a controversial topic in the art community. As an artist myself, I think these are both shallow critiques which undervalue the power of art, especially when it comes down the question of street art versus vandalism.

I don’t think anybody condones the destruction of property or defamation of public spaces through vandalism, but our world has a lot of problems. And it is these problems that modern, upper-class society turns a blind

eye to that Banksy and other street artists like them refuse to let pass unseen.

Banksy is out there and they are doing something that makes people stop and think. And what else is there to art? To creativity? The essence of creativity is outof-the-box, divergent thinking. It means to stimulate the brain in unique and novel ways; to create new connections between the synapses; to inspire; to provoke. That’s what Banksy does, and that’s why they are so profound.

Banksy doesn’t conform to social standards about what art can and can’t be, and I think there’s a lesson here for us all. Speak out, take a stance, form your own voice, think differently, and challenge others to think differently in the process. ■

From Spanx to Skims

THE SHAPEWEAR EVOLUTION-FROM OUTDATED UNDERGARMENTS TO STAPLES IN TODAY’S STYLE SCENE

By Grace Reber, Fashion Staff Writer Illustrated by Riley August

Shapewear is in no way a new phenomenon. Both men and women have been using different shapewear for the past century, but it wasn’t until recently that shapewear has advanced from strictly an undergarment into everyday loungewear. The shapewear trend has undoubtedly taken off since the launch of Kim Kardashian’s shapewear brand Skims in 2019 with influencers like Sofia Richie, Chrissy Teigen and of course, the Kardashian clan sporting the brand on their socials and in the streets.

It’s no secret that many of the newest trends in fashion originate from the Kardashians, but the popularity of shapewear is not all credited to the Calabasas royalty. In the past, shapewear was a somewhat archaic way of hiding a person’s natural curves, but the modernization of the style allows for growth in both the target market and size inclusivity.

Shapewear today focuses on accentuating the body, targeting a range of different areas of the body for a more individualized experience. The pieces also have a sense of empowerment for those who choose to wear them, many making the decision to accentuate their bodies instead of hiding behind less form-fitting attire.

Like a blank canvas, shapewear has the potential to be incorporated into a dressier ensemble or play into the ever-growing athleisure culture. Shapewear bodysuits can be paired with a blazer and dress pants for a business casual

look or a longer pencil skirt for a classy night out. Skims offers a wide collection of leotard style bodysuits ranging from spaghetti straps to long-sleeved turtle neck options for year-round wear. For a less formal look, shapewear bodysuits that feature a longer, biker short style bottom can be worn on their own as loungewear or paired with an oversized jacket and chunky sneakers for a lowkey, sporty look. Inspiration for how to bring these sculpting pieces into your wardrobe is never hard to find when so many influencers supply endless envy-worthy outfits to duplicate.

Skims isn’t the only brand to shop from when looking for new additions to your closet. While many shapewear brands have yet to be modernized, still including aged lace trims and uncomfortable boning, there are options that feel less like something your grandmother would buy. The name Spanx may scream outdated, but in reality the brand has overhauled many of their more mature styles. The ancient pieces have been replaced with a Skims-esque style featuring neutral bodysuits built with plunging necklines as well as waist cinchers, bearing faint resemblances to the iconic Kim K waist trainer. While the look isn’t for everyone, they can be worn over loose-fitting tops to pull focus to the waist while also receiving all the benefits that come with a waist trainer (when used safely).

While neutrals are a closet must this season, a more basic color

palette isn’t universally loved. Unlike Skims and Spanx, the brand Commando offers shapewear far beyond the classic corset or bodysuit. Using their “perfect control” fabric, Commando has produced a plethora of shapewear leggings, biker shorts, and fishnets. With faux leather and bold prints, their leggings are sure to appeal to an audience seeking more than the neutrals that come with other shapewear brands. The brand does carry the usual shapewear items like slip dresses and leotard style bodysuits but in more daring styles, featuring sequined fabric and animal prints. Pieces from Commando fit into everyday styles effortlessly. By combining the benefits of shapewear with the functionality of staple pieces like leggings, Commando has opened up the opportunity for much more frequent and casual use of shapewear.

The modernizing of a staple piece like shapewear has brought so many opportunities to style the slimming products without hiding them. The purpose of the curve defining pieces featured in brands like Skims is not to “fix” or conceal aspects of yourself, but to accentuate the natural shape of your body. By incorporating pieces like a sculpting bodysuit into an everyday ensemble or simply using a piece of shapewear as the outfit itself, highlighting the parts of your body that you’re most proud of has never been easier or more on-trend. ■

Decriminalize Sex Work

DECRIMINALIZATION IS A NECESSARY STEP TO REFORMING THE SEX INDUSTRY

By Rachel Hale, Culture Editorial Assistant • Design by Channing Smith, Art Director

While

its mode of delivery varies, sex has been sold or used to sell products since the beginning of time. From burgers to brothels, fitness models to fetishists and Playboy to pornstars, consumer demand for sex and the illusion of sex will exist as long as the earth spins on its axis. But regulation across the sex work industry is not a one-size-fitsall standard, and legal barriers have forced many sex workers into underground means of work, raising safety, security and health concerns. If we can’t stop prostitution and related work, we should focus on making it safe — it’s time to decriminalize consensual sex work.

While the sale of sex occurs underground in brothels and venues across America, prostitution is currently only legal in eight counties of Nevada.1 In recent years, a rise in activism has led to encouraging legislation and calls for action. In 2003, New Zealand became the first country to decriminalize sex work, and Amnesty International called on all governments to

1 Michelle Rindels, “The Indy Explains: How Legal Prostitution Works in Nevada,” The Nevada Independent - Your State. Your News. Your Voice., May 27, 2018.

do the same in 2016, asking legislators to include “sex workers in the development of laws that affect their lives and safety.”2 Last year, a group of New York lawmakers went a step further by introducing a bill that would terminate prior convictions on account of engaging in prostitution.3

Decriminalizing sex work is beneficial from a safety, regulatory and economic standpoint. After Rhode Island accidentally legalized prostitution, allowing it to occur legally from 2003 to 2009, rape and STIs decreased sharply throughout the state,4 in addition to a 30% decrease in reported rape of sex workers.5

Research indicates that decriminalization could avert 2 “Amnesty International Publishes Policy and Research on Protection of Sex Workers’ Rights,” Amnesty International USA, May 24, 2016

3 “New York State Assembly,” Bill Search and Legislative Information | New York State Assembly, June 10, 2019 4 Cunningham, Scott, and Manisha Shah, “‘Decriminalizing Indoor Prostitution: Im plications for Sexual Violence and Public Health’” (National Bureau of Economic Research) July 2014.

5 “Is Sex Work Decriminalization the An swer? What the Research Tells Us” (New York City, NY: American Civil Liberties Union, 2020), pp. 6.

between 33% and 46% of all HIV related infections in the next ten years.6 Moreover, decriminalizing sex work would mitigate the worries that stop many prostitutes from going to the police about abusive behavior from clients or even law enforcement themselves due to the risk of a criminal record. Regulation could also enforce the use of condoms, vetting of clients and routine safety checks within brothels, keeping prostitution out of the streets and away from underage clients or workers. Furthermore, decriminalization could rid court systems of the massive time and cost of enforcing criminal penalties for prostitution, which some studies show costs roughly $64,000 a year per sentence.7

Many opponents to legalization bring up the dangers of sex work, and rightly so: as one of the most dangerous professions in the world, sex workers are at a high risk of abuse, sexual 6 Pamela Das Das and Richard Horton, “HIV and Sex Workers: Bringing Sex Workers to the Centre of the HIV Re sponse” The Lancet, 2014.

7 Juhu Thurkal and Melissa Ditmore, “Revolving Door - An Analysis of StreetBased Prostitution in New York City” Global Network of Sex Work Projects, 2003.

exploitation, rape and stigma from clients, gangs and law enforcement. Nearly 55% of all prostitutes start underage,8 and New York City’s Legal Aid Society’s Exploitation Intervention Project found that 80% of those trafficked entered the industry at 21 or younger.9

But using criminal penalties for prostitution ignores the root causes of the industry’s problems with underage workers, which stem from a lack of education, impoverished street culture and a lack of stability or safety at home, often compounded by discrimination like racism or homophobia.

Sex work advocates also warn against conflating the legalization of sex work with the legalization of exploitation via human trafficking, which has occurred previously at international agreements and within media.10 Notably, in 2018, the Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act (SESTA) and the Fight Online Sex Trafficking Act (FOSTA) penalized websites for advertising consensual prostitution services or human trafficking, but also led to more dangerous working conditions for sex workers in the process by taking away online vetting options for clients.11

In a U.S. study of online-based sex workers, 33% reported an increase in violence from clients since the SESTA/FOSTA restriction; another study found that 60% of surveyed sex workers reported a need to take on riskier clients since the legislation.12 Despite arguments from those that oppose it, legalizing online sites and decriminalizing sex work would have the opposite effect, increasing safety by allowing workers to negotiate fees or

8 Meredith Dank, Jennifer Yahner, and Lilly Yu, “Consequences of Policing Prostitu tion” New York City: Urban Institute, 2017.

9 Ibid

10 “Sex Work Is Not Trafficking” Global Network of Sex Work Projects, 2011

11 “Is Sex Work Decriminalization the An swer? What the Research Tells Us” (New York City, NY: American Civil Liberties Union, 2020), pp. 1

12 Ibid

conditions prior to meeting with a client, mitigating the need for pimps and encouraging sex workers to report cases of abuse.

Furthermore, a significant amount of the danger surrounding sex work comes from law enforcement itself, making it rare for crimes against workers to be punished, and nearly impossible for sex workers to report instances of abuse. A study of street-based sex work in New York City found that 80% of respondents had been threatened with or experienced violence while on the job, with 17% experiencing sexual assault from police officers themselves,13 and a D.C. based study found that nearly 80% of sex workers surveyed had gone to the police with problems, “but in many instances officers refused to assist them or made the situation worse.”14 With a lack of violence accountability from police and a dearth of employment resources and housing services, many workers find themselves trapped in a cycle of violence and vulnerability that could only be fixed with regulation efforts.

Sex work is nicknamed “the oldest profession in history” for a reason — prostitution is mentioned as far back as Hammurabi’s code and brothels date back to 5th century B.C. Greece. But in recent years, new venues for sex-work related content, such as OnlyFans, an Instagram-like platform for racy pictures, have changed the game forever. Launched in 2016, the web platform has over 50 million registered users and a million content creators, who might dress up in kinky costumes or make posts catered to their users’ desires.15

13 Juhu Thurkal and Melissa Ditmore, “Revolving Door - An Analysis of StreetBased Prostitution in New York City” Global Network of Sex Work Projects, 2003.

14 Saunders, Penelope, and Jennifer Kirby. “Move Along: Community-based Research into the Policing of Sex Work in Washington, D.C.” Social Justice 37, no. 1 (119) (2010): 107-27.

15 “OnlyFans Statistics – Users, Revenue and Usage Stats,” Influencer Marketing Hub, December 14, 2020

While the average influencer earning from the platform is about $180 a week, top creators can rake in numbers upwards of millions. Jem Wolfie, a top Australian fitness model on the platform, disclosed that she was hauling in an average of $30,000 a day from her audience, a majority of which are young men.16 Accessibility and anonymity have combined to create the top-performing industry that is pornography, which comes in at $15 billion a year by conservative estimates.17 Strip clubs are another key player in the business, bringing in roughly $8 billion a year in revenue.18 If the selling of →

16 Ben O’Shea, “How Jem Wolfie Built an Insta Empire,” PerthNow, April 9, 2019

17 “Porn Could Be Worth More to the US than Netflix or the NFL,” Porn could be worth more to the US economy than Netflix, the NBA, or the NFL - Quartz, June 21, 2018

18 Jeremy Moses, “US Specialized Industry Report: Strip Clubs,” IBIS World, Decem ber 2019

sexual content is legal on all other fronts, it is only a natural extension that the act itself should be legalized as well.

Even among workers within the community, in-person sex workers are often at the bottom of the industry’s theoretical hierarchy that is sometimes referred to as “lateral whorephobia,” experiencing stigma at a higher degree than cam girls or exotic dancers.19

While there is undeniably a dangerous aspect to sex work, activists argue that lots of sex workers choose to come to the industry purely because they enjoy the work. Many are students, aspiring professionals or work another job. In order for workers to gain access to the same healthcare and legal amenities provided in other industries, it is crucial to get rid of the view that all sex workers are victims who need rescuing.

But while sex work is a mode of empowerment for some, who may refer to themselves by names like dominatrix or sugar baby, for others, pushed out of more traditional jobs, it is still a mode of survival. That is the case for many who are at significant employment and housing disadvantages due to their racial, gender or sexual identity, in turn leading to sex work as a means of making money, especially among youth populations.

Moreover, Black sex workers are arrested at a significantly higher rate than white workers, with nearly 40% of those arrested for sex-related crimes in 2015 being Black.20 Having a criminal record is another obstacle to getting a job when this group is already at the most significant employment and housing disadvantage, making it hard to leave the industry. Trans workers face the most dangers and disadvantages within the community, with a Washington DC survey on sex work finding that 36% of trans

19 Andrew Poitras, “What Constitutes Sex Work?,” Hopes&Fears, December 16, 2015

20 Jasmine Sankofa, “From Margin to Center: Sex Work Decriminalization Is a Racial Justice Issue,” Amnesty Interna tional USA, December 12, 2016

respondents reported being unemployed compared to 9% of other DC residents, and over 40% of those surveyed “had been denied at least one job due to being perceived as trans.”21

Decriminalization is an intersectional problem, deeply intertwined with systemic oppression in America. If more educational, safety and employment resources were available to young marginalized groups, fewer workers would feel pressure to get involved in the industry.

People pay for sexual content in a multitude of other ways, so the moral argument that the premise of sex work is unethical is not only incorrect, it’s outdated. Men who pay for prostitution, sometimes nicknamed “Johns,” are more common than many realize. From the common man to the famed, those who buy sex could be your colleagues, doctors or favorite actors. To put it simply: without demand, the sex industry wouldn’t exist. Pushing an already unsafe industry further into the dark, away from regulations and protections, isn’t working — keeping prostitution illegal on moral grounds only gives pimps and human traffickers a chance to take advantage of sex workers who can’t turn to law enforcement for help.

Previous efforts to curtail prostitution have failed because the sale of sex is a two-part equation, requiring decriminalization of both the sale and purchase of sex; our current system fails to protect workers from exploitation, abuse from clients and law enforcement, and health problems. At its core, decriminalization is a feminist, racial justice and human rights issue, and through a combination of legalizing sex work and improving resources for marginalized communities, we can finally give sex workers the respect they deserve.

21 Edelman, E.A., Corado, R., Lumby, E.C., Gills, R.H., Elwell, J., Terry, J.A., & Emper ador Dyer, J. Access Denied: Washington, DC Trans Needs Assessment Report. DC Trans Coalition. 2015.

At its core, decriminalization is a feminist, racial justice and human rights issue, and through a combination of legalizing sex work and improving resources for marginalized communities, we

The Slow Future of Fashion

AN EXPLORATION OF IRIS VAN HERPEN’S EXPERIMENTAL AND SUSTAINABLE DESIGNS

By Emily Fleming, Fashion Staff Writer Graphic by Mac Gale and Ella Cunz

Dutch fashion designer Iris Van Herpen has made a name for herself by fusing experimental technology and Haute Couture to create extraordinary, one-of-a-kind designs. While we are all currently battling the effects and ethical problems surrounding fast fashion, Herpen’s designs are a breath of fresh air. She prioritizes “slow fashion,” using technology to create what once seemed impossible in an industry that runs on keeping up with new trends and ideas.1

Her techniques vary from “drawing designs by hand on the computer” to using 3D printing, laser cutting and more.2 One could argue there isn’t a material Herpen has met that she hasn’t liked, as her creations range from being made out of unusual materials such as silicone, concrete, metal lace, iron filings, glass and plastic. She is constantly on the search for more “ecoconscious fabrics,” and continues to re-imagine the future of textiles and the way fashion is produced.3 She is also particularly excited by the potential of color and shape changing textiles — although we may be a long ways away from creating and popularizing these materials, it has the potential to change the way we look at fashion forever and Herpen will likely be a leader in adopting these new, ground-breaking practices.

In 2013, Herpen collaborated with Daphne Guinness — a fellow designer and lover of avantgarde fashion — to create “the water dress.”4 For this dress, Guinness was photographed as Thomas, D. (2019, October 01). Iris van Herpen Designs for Nature.

Chan, E. (2019, July 02). Is couture the most sustainable fashion week of all?

water was thrown at her from all different angles. Studying the fluidity and movement of the water, Herpen used those images to create the piece. By manipulating and hand-sculpting plastic, she achieved a design that truly captured the organic essence of water, a material she has long been inspired by.

Herpen draws much of her inspiration from nature. Her infinity dress, one that she says is the most difficult she’s ever made, was a part of her Hypnosis collection. It was created from delicate, laser cut shapes that create an optical illusion when interacting with air. As the model walks, the piece expands and contracts, which makes it appear as if “the whole sculpture is breathing.”5 This piece exemplifies her appreciation for the balance between technology and nature, showing how the two interact to create something beautiful and “alive.”6

Herpen trained in classical ballet until she was 18 years old, attributing her inspiration of movement and femininity to her experience in dance.7 She celebrates female empowerment, creating a captivating balance between feminine energy and hard geometric shapes and materials. Her pieces are a celebration of women, and each collection pushes the boundaries of “today’s definition of a garment.”8 Herpen has collaborated with architects, kinetic sculptors, dance choreographers, and more,

5 Sebastian Jordahn | 8 May 2020 Leave a comment. (2020, May 09). “The Infinity dress is the most difficult I have ever made” says Iris van Herpen.

6 Ibid.

7 About. (n.d.). Retrieved January 30, 2021, Iris Van Hepburn

8 Ibid.

claiming there is no difference between architecture and fashion.9 Her work is more than just clothing, it is art.

The costs of her designs reflect the craftsmanship and hard work that goes into each piece—with designs ranging from $20,000 to over $100,000—and she values the creative process more than end result. Rather than sketching two-dimensionally, she begins by draping fabrics on mannequins, observing how it interacts with the human form. This process can take up to two weeks, and she often starts with no set outcome in sight.

Herpen believes “there is so much in fashion that is unexplored,” giving us faith that she will continue exploring ways to achieve the impossible.10 It can only go up for this artist, as she continues challenging herself to use materials no one else has, utilizing artificial intelligence for the new future of fashion. Iris Van Herpen is a true visionary: one who believes in a future of sustainability, the importance of freedom, and the power of imagination.11

■

9 Thomas, D. (2019, October 01). Iris van Herpen Designs for Nature.

10 Sebastian Jordahn | 6 May 2020 Leave a comment. (2020, May 09). “There is so much in fashion that is unexplored” says Iris van Herpen.

11 Boone, D., & Lehava, N. (2018, June 07). Couturier Iris van Herpen on the Future of Sustainable Fashion.

The Male Gaze in Media

Written by Madison Contributing and Shannon Culture Staff

Illustrated by Channing Art Director

From a film where the camera lingers over the female figure to even animated children’s movies that feature curvaceous female characters, we view much of the world through the male gaze.

The male gaze theory can be understood in three ways: how women are influenced by the way men look at them, how women look at themselves and how women look at other women.1 Under the male gaze theory male created mediums and representations that depict women in a stereotypical way set the norms of how women should look and behave. Women internalize the external standards placed upon them by the heterosexual male expectations of feminine beauty and standards.

We see the effects of catering to men’s desires across media forms. For example, in the industry of video games, the male gaze prominently rules over the characters and game itself. Popular video games rarely show female characters in main player roles, and when they do, they are built for the male gaze. Lara Croft, who was championed for fighting the gender roles as one of the first female main characters, is highly sexualized with a large chest and small waist.2 In Grand Theft Auto, women are known for wearing minimal clothing and only functioning as side characters to the main male characters.

Not only are the female characters seen as lesser players, but they are also criticized by the gaming community if they possess more masculine, or rather, less sexualized traits. In one study based on feedback from World of Warcraft, “female characters in feminine roles received significantly less negative

1Sampson, Rachel. “Film Theory 101 - Lau ra Mulvey: The Male Gaze Theory.” Film Inquiry. May 21, 2020.

2 “Miss-Leading Characters: The Hy per-Sexualization of Females in Video Games.” GCMLP, October 25, 2019.

HOW CATERING TO MEN’S DESIRES DEFINES FEMININITY ACROSS MEDIA

feedback than female characters in masculine roles.”3 Women are expected to look sexier and weaker even in online spaces of combat, and are also criticized if they appear stronger or equally strong as male characters. These stereotypes in visual representation and behavior can damage women’s self-esteem and give men a skewed understanding of how complex women are, damaging relationships with oneself and others.

Similarly, in the film industry, female characters are often used to appeal and satisfy a male audience, rather than give an accurate depiction of women’s stories. Although some newer films with strong female leads are intended to promote gender equality, women are typically cast as an object of desire or merely a side character.

Feminist film theoriet Laura Mulvey coined the term “the Male Gaze” and believe that women are “the bearer of meaning and not the maker of meaning.”4 Applying that understanding to media, Mulvey argues that women are used like props or objects that are meant to be viewed instead of being portrayed as real people. There is not a comparable issue with male representation.

There is a growing sentiment in the industry that has acknowledged that cinema does not invite women to desire men’s bodies: “rather, female viewers are positioned to identify with a heroine who is herself desired by a man.”5

One actress taking a stand against the male gaze in movies is Keira Knightley. The Pride & Prejudice star recently confirmed that she

3 Chappetta, Kelsey. 2018. “The Role of Gender in Video Games.” Order No. 10749967, The University of Alabama.

4 Sampson, Rachel. “Film Theory 101Laura Mulvey: The Male Gaze Theory.” Film Inquiry. May 21, 2020.

5 Loreck, Janice. “Explainer: what does the ‘male gaze’ mean, and what about a female gaze?” The Conversation. January 5, 2016.

will not be working on sex scenes with male directors. According to Knightley, “those horrible sex scenes where [one is] all greased up and everybody is grunting,”6 make her uncomfortable and are simply a male fantasy about sex that don’t add anything to the plot. While she acknowledged that some sex scenes are integral parts of the story, Knightley will no longer be participating in those scenes, especially when it would call for her be naked in a room full of men directing the way she looks and moves.

Unfortunately, women have now been conditioned to self-objectify themselves and other women in accordance to the standards of the male gaze. Studies have shown repeatedly how just the anticipation of the male gaze for women leads to more selfobjectification and negativity towards themselves.7 Women may sexualize themselves to appeal to the male gaze or they may try to avoid the male gaze by dressing more modestly. This leads women to the question: Am I presenting myself externally for my own satisfaction or is it in reaction to the male gaze?

The male gaze’ prevalence in the media affects all aspects of society. Oversexualization and performative action according to male desire impede women’s self-expression and their ability to have positive relationships and friendships with men and each other. Through modern art forms like video games and movies, society has been conditioned to criticize, as well as romanticize standards of femininity through the expectations set by the male gaze. At this point in contemporary media, we need more complex representations of women as not only sexual beings, but human beings. ■

6 Ramachandran, Naman. “Keira Knightley Reveals Discomfort of Male Gaze: ‘I’d Just Rather Not Stand in Front of a Group of Men Naked’.” Variety. Variety, January 25, 2021.

7 Bothra, Shreya. “How the Male Gaze Alters the Way We See Ourselves.” Live Wire, October 8, 2020.

Women are expected to look sexier and weaker even in online spaces of combat, and are also criticized if they appear stronger or equally strong as male characters.

DRY CLEAN ONLY

Photographed by Audrey O’Neill, Assistant Photography Director • Modeled by Alexa Hanson Assisted by Emily Fleming, Creative Assistant and Marina Scerpella, Creative Team

Directed by Sam Starks, Creative Director • Makeup by Katie Hayes

Secret Surgeries

THE NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF CELEBRITIES DENYING OR LYING ABOUT PLASTIC SURGERY

By Elizabeth Karnowski, Culture Staff Writer • Graphic by Emma Gray, Arts Curator

Just as style trends evolve and change, so do beauty standards for individuals. Full lips, chiseled jawlines and cheekbones, and rounder body figures are all considered to be beautiful by the current standard.1

Many beauty standards are set by celebrities who constantly publicize their lives. Our feeds are filled with selfies, bikini pictures, outfits of the day and other images that offer a perfectly staged glimpse into someone’s life. It’s easy to look at these photos and be mesmerized or feel inferior to the way they look. However, it’s become increasingly apparent that many celebrities are getting some form of plastic surgery in order to attain the look they want.

Plastic surgery is expensive and typically unaffordable for many. Procedures can be well over thousands of dollars — a facelift is twelve thousand dollars.2 Although some celebrities are transparent about procedures they’ve had done, others make claims against it, choosing to keep their transformation private. To claim you haven’t had plastic surgery when you had work done plays into the idea that cosmetic procedures are taboo and also sets unrealistic beauty norms that are only obtainable through financial privilege.

There’s a saying, “you’re not ugly, you’re just poor,” which is prevalent when comparing the looks of people with and without procedures done. Because of the costly beauty procedure, people continuously claim that individuals, especially the Kardashians, have synthetically changed their look. This saying is usually incorporated into a meme format, with the saying above a before and after picture of whoever the meme is talking about.

There’s even something called “The Kardashian Effect,” which is the unofficial term for the rise in the number of young people seeking noninvasive plastic surgery. There has been a 40% increase in non-invasive procedures performed on people

Michelle Smith, “How plastic surgery trends reflect changing beauty ideals”, this.

Trudi Bonomi, “Average Cost of Popular Plastic Surgery Procedures (Updated 2020)”, Westlake Dermatology, May 2, 2014.

in their 20’s over the last decade.3 Even if it’s obvious to the public that members of the Kardashian-Jenner family have had surgeries in the past, some of the moguls insist they’ve had minimal work done.

In an interview with Paper Magazine, Kylie Jenner revealed she’s had fillers but did not address any other possible procedures she might have had.4 Other celebrities make similar claims, such as Jennifer Lopez, who said she’s not had any botox done. However, doctors say it’s highly unlikely she’s had no work done due to her thin bridge and tip of her nose.5 A spokesperson for MYA Cosmetic Surgery explains that there’s a change J.Lo may have undergone rhinoplasty, a procedure that thins someone’s nose. The procedure is extremely naturallooking while keeping the natural proportions of an individual’s face. Cosmetic surgeons also believe there’s a chance she underwent a breast enlargement surgery, as well as anti-wrinkle injections (botox) to her forehead and eye area.6

It’s not that receiving these procedures puts people like J.Lo in the wrong; people are entitled to their right to change and alter anything about themselves. But, by choosing to deny plastic surgery when you look like, well J.Lo, it causes people to question and why they look the way they do in comparison to people like her.

A survey was performed that concluded more than 40% of women and around 20% of men agreed they would consider plastic surgery.7 Studies have also shown that the more reality television a young girl watches, the more likely she is to find her appearance to be important.8

3 Dirk Kremer, “What is The Kardashian Effect?”, Harley St Aesthetics, January 27, 2017.

4 Katherine Gillespie, “Kylie Jenner: Get Rich or Die Following”, Paper Magazine, February 19, 2019.

5 Merrell Readman, “Caught In A Lie! Dermatologists Say Jennifer Lopez’s ‘No Botox’ Claims Are Totally False”, She Finds, December 10, 2020

6 Frances Kindon, “Surgeon Reveals What Jennifer Lopez Has REALLY Had Done - From Her Nose to Her Boobs”, Mirror, June 8, 2019.

7 Palmer, Mario, “5 Facts About Body Image”, Amplify, 2014.

8 The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, “Survey Finds That Wom en Are More Likely To Consider Plastic Surgery Than They Were Ten Years Ago”,

When there’s a constant exposure of celebrities and their appearances, the rest of the population believes they should look the same.

Denying plastic surgery is harmful to beauty culture, especially when claiming a certain product or specific diet is the end-all secret (and not in fact the surgery itself). With a lack of transparency around plastic surgery, the stigma around the matter grows. Plastic surgery can be considered unnatural and celebrities often receive backlash for procedures they may have causing them to keep these procedures hidden.

There’s a fine line when it comes to avoiding criticism and denying or lying about work that’s been done. In a world where it’s easy to compare yourself to others, constantly seeing photos of someone who looks perfect no matter what can be detrimental to one’s self-image.

Public figures being transparent about any procedure they may have had would help with erasing the stigma around plastic surgery. It would normalize the ability to change and alter things you don’t like about yourself if desired, while simultaneously lowering comparison between public figures and their fans. It’s harmful to constantly compare yourself to someone who’s had plastic surgery, especially if you aren’t aware of it.

By changing features that are natural for one’s body type or accentuating the ones they already have, a person can gain a more positive outlook on their figure. Plastic surgery rose and has been helping people change their look since the 1980s.9 For some people it’s a normal part of their beauty routine and by being transparent about this people can feel less bad about having or not having work done.

Talking more about procedures could potentially help the way people think about themselves. In an age where the common celebrity is idolized by millions of people, being open about their cosmetic and surgical enhancements would be beneficial to both their fans and themselves.

■

ASAPS, 2014.

9 Allure, “Celebrity Beauty Ideals and Plastic Surgery Trends: 30 Years of Influence”, Allure Plastic Surgery, January 2021.

ARTS

10 SONGS THAT ARE FEMININE POLISHED PERFECTION

Written by Olivia Peters, Arts Staff Writer

Illustrated by Channing Smith, Art Director

Inspiredby the concept of 90s glam meeting the modern woman, this playlist is a mash-up of classic, girl power, rom-com vibes reminiscent of “Clueless” or “Mean Girls,” paired with current powerhouses like Arianna Grande and Miley Cyrus. It’s the sort of music that belongs in the background when everything is pristine: your outfit, the aesthetic, and the people around you. It’s a curation of 10 songs for girly-girls when they want to feel untouchable.

1. Someone Tell the Boys - Samia

A singer with rock roots and an indie twist, Samia is a true powerhouse vocalist at only 24 years old. She opened for Hippo Campus at the Sylvee in 2019, and watching her all-girl band dance while playing their instruments was bewitching.

2. No Scrubs - TLC

A classic. This song lays on the sass thick; it’s the perfect reminder to never settle for less than you’re worth.

3. Glamorous - Fergie, Ludacris

Fergie is a go-to when the mood is chic and posh. The orchestra in the backtrack of this song makes it easy to picture that you’re in a slow-motion, walking montage of a movie.

4. Lady Marmalade - Christina Aguilera, Lil’ Kim, Mya, P!nk

This title may sound unfamiliar, but when you hear the chorus you’ll realize you’ve heard it a million times. Think Rodeo Drive, pink plush pumps and shopping bags.

5. Do My Thang - Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus has been serving us anthems for a few years now, often not getting the recognition she deserves. This throwback from “Bangerz” is empowering and an easy listen.

6. Just a Girl - No Doubt

Gwen Stafani! Enough said. Featured in “Clueless” and “Captain Marvel,” this is the perfect timeless anthem for this playlist.

7. break up with your girlfriend, i’m bored - Ariana Grande Ariana’s aesthetic and confidence is the epitome of the “plastic” girl. This song was played every five minutes on the radio in 2019, so hopefully it has been long enough since its release that you’re happy to hear it again.

8. Bad Girls - M.I.A.

Released in 2012, the “Bad Girls” music video received a Grammy nomination and won two MTV Music Video Awards. This song gives off cliquey, mean girl vibes and it’s perfect dancing music.

9. Milkshake - Kelis

“Milkshake” gained a lot of popularity with our generation because of its inclusion on the “Mean Girls” soundtrack. It’s a fun listen and all about confidence. There’s no way it wouldn’t make the Plastic Playlist.

10. Bang Bang Bang Bang - Sohodolls

Another unrecognizable name, but a massively popular song, especially for Tik Tok users. The videos that this track accompanies usually feature on-trend makeup and hair or aesthetic city lifestyles. ■

Make Insta Casual Again

THE NEW SOCIAL MEDIA TREND THAT CHAMPIONS BEING REAL ONLINE

Written by Mason Braasch, Staff Writer

Photographed by Hannah Huber, Contributing Photographer

Modeled by Kamryn Truesdale and Emily Herzog

Wecan all admit that social media is not a true representation of ourselves. Online, you can be the idealized version of yourself by curating your feed to make your life seem more beautiful or interesting to your followers and friends. Many people take pride in creating their online brand and see it as a form of self-expression. Still others may feel like this makes social media a competitive space where they have to keep up with trends and look happy all the time. When it comes to social media, where do we draw the line between creating an aesthetic that we love, and erasing our true selves?

Social media makes it easier than ever to compare ourselves to others. It is a constant stream of aesthetically pleasing photos, perfect bodies and glamorous lifestyles. Sure, it can be a place of empowerment for some, as many choose to use their social media to spread powerful messages and share photos that boost their self-esteem, but for some, it feels like a constant competition of who can make their life — and their pictures — look the best.

#MakeInstagramCasualAgain is a trend aimed at taking away some of the pressure of social media.1 Unfiltered and low1 “Insta Casual.” The Hourglass. Accessed January 31, 2021. https://www.hourglass newspaper.com/insta-casual.

quality photos, fun challenges, memes and photos that are more realistic to how we look, think and talk are welcomed. The need to make your feed fit a certain theme or color scheme is a thought of the past. This growing movement is the latest, and in my opinion, most beneficial trend to hit Instagram in a while.

Making your Instagram casual should be empowering and fun. I can remember a time when I would post silly pictures of my friends, funny quotes I had found online, and even, “Like for a TBH.” Make Instagram a place to share your unfiltered selfies, your newest concoction from the kitchen, and maybe even the times where you failed.

In order to bring the joy back to social media, we should lessen the pressure to be. Instead of posting photos that we think others will like, we need to focus on curating a feed that brings joy to ourselves. To start, think about what brings you joy beyond the screen, and focus on spending time with those people, places or things. If you happen to capture these happy moments in a picture, share it with others. The result will be a social media that reflects a happy life, not a so-called “perfect” one. ■

Instead of posting photos that we think others will like, we need to focus on curating a feed that brings joy to ourselves.