march 2011
Fatal a t t r a c t i o n
HOT
SHOULDER
MIDDLE EASTERN
STYLE
BODY
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body beautiful
date night
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public decency
fatal attraction
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opposites attract
backstage tease
Cover photo by SARA SPIEGEL
tableofcontents *video
*video
100
4 8 10 12
Haute Online Top 5 Editor’s Note Thread Buzz
14 16 18 20 26 30
Runway Realway
35 40 44
DIY Repair Your Pair DIY Building Blossoms DIY Spring Transition
seams
Street Peeps Column: Sports Style Suspend into Style Maintained Mane Middle Eastern Style
diy
who, what, wear
46 52 56
Artsy Attire
126 130
Perfect Fit Kindly Knits
Garbage Getup Dark Horses
in good fashion
back features
136 140 150 156
Global Gala Hot Shoulder Sweet Escape Rant / Rave
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hauteonline The Coveteur
Fashion editors and insiders are constantly critiquing and commenting on the latest trends, but now you have the opportunity to peek inside their own personal closets. Erin Kleinberg, Stephanie Mark and Jake Rosenberg launched a new fashion blog, The Coveteur, which gives visitors an exclusive view into fashion icons’ thoughts and opinions. But more importantly, this is a sneak peek into their wardrobes. — MARLEY BRISON
DIGITAL INSPIRATION
Inspiration for our fashion comes from top magazine style editors and fashion directors. Now you have the chance to see where they get their contemporary clothes and outfit ideas. Upon clicking a specific featured person, visitors are presented with a brief biography, along with the fashion experts’ digital inspirations. Some of the popular digital inspirations include Jak and Jil, Harpar’s Bazaar and JJJJound.
PERSONAL COMMENTS
The Coveteur not only provides pictures of specific items found in the closets of the style conscious, but their personal comments on the pieces as well. Whether it is the studded Chanel necklace that was too desirable to pass up or the leopard print Alexander Wang shoes that ended up being uncomfortable, fashion editors and magazine directors give visitors the 411 on their treasured purchases. This section provides a complete rundown on what is truly behind closed closet doors.
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Street Etiquette
Street Etiquette is a menswear style blog by Joshua Kissi and Travis Gumbs, two 20-yearold Bronx natives. Atypical to most fashion blogs, Street Etiquette reaches beyond pictures of just models and clothes. Architecture, street scenes and seasonal moods that inspire these men’s fashions are also showcased. Travel and culture play a role in
the evolving style for the duo. After crossing the pond to visit Germany, Street Etiquette shared their adventure by portraying how classical architecture inspired cool gray textured suits with flair by color handkerchief.
— HALLIE RYBKA
FEATURED ARTICLE A feature article is showcased in the top right of the homepage. The current feature article, “The Black Ivy,” expresses the mission to encourage creativity in fashion. This mirrors how the first Black Ivy colleges motivated and inspired hardworking individuals of that generation.
ACCESSORIES
Though it is easy to focus on the principle pieces of wardrobe, Kissi reminds readers, “It’s worth considering how the details of an outfit affect your overall look.” Thus, accessories must not be forgotten, and Street Etiquette highlights boldly styled hats, bags and an eclectic mix of jewelry.
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SUMMER ETIQUETTE
A side panel of categories helps readers quickly find an area of specific interest, whether it be footwear, accessories or summer etiquette. Selecting summer etiquette brings the reader to blogs that show off trendy, comfortable summer attire and perfect shoes for the season such as espadrilles.
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Urbane Menswear
Urbane Menswear is an online fashion blog that showcases men’s attire, ranging from shoes and clothes to accessories. The blog was created by Nereida Valles and Graciela Razo, two fashion enthusiasts who find menswear to be inspiring and a great mode for self-expression. This blog not only allows the viewer to browse through photos for fashion inspiration, but also gives them the opportunity to submit pictures of their own outfits to be displayed online. Considering some of the outfits
I have seen men on campus wearing, they desperately need this blog. I mean let’s face it, it’s time to trade in your everyday college guy in sweats and a hoodie for a smoking hot man in a button-up shirt underneath a blazer paired with some nice jeans. The outfit featured on the Oct. 31 post under the archive section is a great example. Take note boys, because this is what girls want to see. Don’t wait any longer. Log on and get inspired! —KRISTA COLE
RANDOM LINK One of the main features of this blog is the links located at the top of the page. By selecting the “Random” link, a picture of an outfit, accessory or even shoes are shown. Below each picture is a brief explanation of who is wearing these outfits and why more men should follow this trend. If an outfit is the focus on the random page at the time, the summary below gives the designer’s name and what Valles and Razo find interesting about it.
FRIEND BLOGS
To browse more blogs that are similar to Urbane Menswear, click on the “Friend Blogs” link located at the top of the page. Valles and Razo have supplied a list of their favorite blogs for their viewers to enjoy. If you enjoy Urbane Menswear’s polished display of men’s fashion, you will also enjoy the blogs they have listed. This list includes the popular Sartorialist along with Street Etiquette. My favorite of those listed is Men In This Town. The archives section on this blog is filled with dashing ideas for men’s outfits.
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12 20E1C1U-TIVE EX
ARIODN BO LECT SE
SIBS | Feb. 19, 2011
GALAXY GAMES
for more events and info visit
two. r o f e l b Ta z
2
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topfive EEK
NW
IO FASH
We all know the modeling industry is cutthroat and competitive. It’s human nature to compare yourself to others, no matter what the circumstance. However, looking closer into London’s Fashion Week, I will never compare myself to the models from British designer Erdem’s Fall 2011 Ready To Wear Runway. Reported in London’s The Daily Mail, one model looks almost skeletal, and I couldn’t agree more. I had a little bit more faith in the fashion industry, but sorry Erdem — not endorsing you anymore. Nowhere is an eating disorder considered haute couture.
AIMEE RANCER
PER
FUM
While Lady Gaga has become a role model for self-expression and artist creativity (even if her creativity incubates within an egg), her influence may end with perfume. Gaga is releasing a new perfume, which she described as smelling like a mix of blood and semen last month. However, she has changed her mind about the scent. instead, she recently explained it as smelling like an expensive hooker. Don’t get me wrong, I envy her ability to wear whatever she wants confidently, but this girl doesn’t take a shower to smell like she just left a brothel.
JAMIE RATERMANN
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diy
Thread leaders highlight the top trends & news in the syle world. Here’s what is happening outside of our Athens fashion bubble. E PAD
S KATE
The people at Kate Spade are killing me. They have released a book called Things We Love that lets us average people take a look at their inspirations and intriguing tidbits. But it’s only online! However, you can access this e-book on her website. Inside these digital pages lie beautiful layouts picturing striped straws, beautiful type, peonies and the perfect red lipstick. Who wouldn’t want to know to the inner creative workings of this American handbag and clothing designer. Just like Thread, I want these pages to line my bookshelves.
LAUREN MIKOLAY
ANDREA TEGGART
IMAGE FROM THE CUT, NYMAG.COM
AL MET
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Men are from Mars. Women are from Venus? I think NOT! We predict a Rant vs. Rave in our near future for this supposed fall 2011 trend: women’s metallic trousers. Not only have the trousers been shining amid gowns and dresses at award shows and cocktail parties, but they have also made their mark on the fall 2011 runways. Whether loose and bohemian-inspired or tailored and lady-like, we suggest pairing these trousers with a black top and structured jacket for sophistication and ease. Lucky for you, this is one stylish planet.
ON
IBITI
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COURTNEY BALDASARE
A little more than a year after his death, the life and work of renowned designer Alexander McQueen is once again being revered and revealed. The Costume Institute at New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art will show a number of McQueen’s iconic pieces in an exhibition titled “Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty” from May 4 until July 31, according to the New York Times. Visitors may indulge in the edgy and darkly romantic designs on display and discover details of his fascinating ragsto-riches story.
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editor’snote Jamie Ratermann EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Hi Threadies, As a fashion magazine, Thread and our staffers love clothes and culture in every size, shape and form. And we feel the same way about the bodies wearing those clothes. With our March issue, we decided to be our most sexy and confident. Thread has devoted its time to showing not only alluring bodies but also the places we like to see them flaunted. While Thread has always worked with models of every size, a significant part of our feature well is dedicated to motivating all men and women to love fashion, even if they are feeling the society’s pressure to be thin. Our Body Beautiful article gives an inside look to students who break out of those boundaries, and our photo feature on Athens’ Boxcar Burlesque women shows how sultry loving your body can be. Next, an emerging trend in fashion for women is introducing lingerie-inspired pieces into your everyday activities. Our Public Decency photo shoot encourages you to let Victoria’s secret fly as you run to the grocery store or wash your car. Most of all, my personal love for old Hollywood has manifested itself into a shoot committed to the best-dressed actors and actresses of film noir in our Fatal Attractions shoot. As winter slowly comes to an end, Thread is eager to celebrate spring’s arrival. Join in the celebration with us by reading our Building Blossoms article to brighten up apartment for those upcoming patio parties. Our beauty page is dedicated to throwing those tousle caps out 10 | THREAD
and flaunting your lovely locks in the Maintained Mane. Or, if you preparing for a road trip soon, Spring Break Essentials is the guide for your endless packing list. If you love our March magazine, tell us about it via our Twitter or Facebook pages. Also join in our #CampusFashion tweet chat tonight March 7 at 9 p.m. with 10 other student fashion publications from across the country. Special thanks to O’Betty’s Red Hot Dogs and Sausage, Cornwell Rentals, Busy Day Market, University Car Wash, Tony’s Tavern, Athena Cinema, Athens Underground, The Red Brick Sports Club, Donkey Coffee and Espresso, Salaam, Konneker Alumni Center and, of course, my Thread staffers for putting together our March issue! Stay fierce, Jamie Ratermann
MARCH 2011
Editor-in-Chief Jamie Ratermann
Managing Editor Jordan Valinsky
seams editor
design & web editor
who what wear editor
photo chief
diy editor
picture editor
copy chief
creative director
public relations chief
advertising executive
Aimee Rancer
Ali Morris
Courtney Baldasare
Holly Fisher
Lauren Huefner
Annie Scheltens
Lauren Mikolay Andi Teggart
Sam Fink
Laleh Honar
WRITERS
Grace Austin, Marley Brison, Brooke Bunce, Catherine Caldwell, Krista Cole, Libby Cunningham, Pat Doyle, Tessa Dufresne, Leah Fightmaster, Sophie Fredericksen, Sarah Hider, Kaylyn Hlavaty, Ryan Judy, Emily Koenig, Anna Luczkow, Bridget Mallon, Sarah Maloy, Megan Marcum, Ali Mazzotta, Olivia Ohlin, Bradley Parks, Jazmine Reed, Cynthia Robinson, Hallie Rybka, Nadia Sheng, Laura Straub, Rachel Swalin, Bentley Weisel, Carly Wiita, Sandie Young
PHOTOGRAPHERS
assistant Lisa Beggs | Editors Sara Spiegel, Becky Williams Sarah Balser, Heather Beaver, Lisa Beggs, Mylan Cannon, Kelly Cline, Tyler Close, Levi Finley, Mara Gruber, Mary Hautman, Kate Irby, Audrey Kelly, Jeff Kolada, Conor Lamb, Emily Martin, Michael Maurer, Caitlin McConnell, Emily Mueller, Emily Newman, Jordan Petsy, Steve Ross, Deanna Sakal, Phil Sam, Sara Spiegel, Natalie Taylor, Becky Williams
DESIGNERS
assistant Annie Cercone Kirstyn Blair, Kiersten Bonifant, Ashley Cappellazzi, Sarah Harris, Megan Hillman, Jenny Johnson, Rachel Keaveny, Chelsea Leasure, Mikaela Longo, Sarah Maclam, Danielle Magary, Sarah Maloy, Danielle Morris, Rachel Orr, Marcie Richardson, Kaitlyn Richert, Margaret Riedel, Riley Yuhas
STYLISTS
assistants Connor Goddard, Ali Mazzotta Justin Brown, Shelby Gilgoff
COPY EDITORS
Holly Coletta, Tessa Dufresne, Leah Fightmaster, Sarah Maloy, Jackie Runion, Rachel Swalin, Carly Wiita
PUBLIC RELATIONS TEAM
Catherine Caldwell, Sydney Cologie, Anna Franz, Becca Goodburn, Jenny Joseph, Scott Lambert, Nicole Ranieri, Kyla Schmalenberger, Kellie Snyder, Hannah Rose, Kylie Whittaker
MODELS
Cody Baker, Jackie Bon, Jake Brown, m Busch, Brittany Buynak, Kaylee Cappello, Caleb Fullen, Becca Goodburn, Katie Hawkins, Lisa Herald, Risa Katz, Jonathan Locey, Macauley McGrew, Nicole Robertson, Maddie Stevens, Kylie Whittaker, Nicole Zefran
VIDEO TEAM
Maddie Gaither, Lo Martinez, Jordan Pellegrini, Mike Zorbas
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d a e r th
Z U B » #CAMPUSFASHION: WHAT SPRING TREND ARE YOU THE MOST EXCITED FOR?
» #CAMPUSFASHION: IF YOU WERE GOING TO A LADY GAGA CONCERT, WHAT WOULD YOU WEAR?
Molly Gallagher I’m excited for nudes/whites,
Aimee Rancer
SO sick of a sea of gray!
shirt and shoes. Nuff said.
Jordan Valinksy Looking forward to skinny
Connor Goddard all I’m wearing this Sat. to
khakis and iced coffee!
@ladygaga is body paint & things that can be
Bradley Parks I’m looking forward to slipping
purchased at a hardware store
I would wear leather shorts,
on my @SanukFootwear every day this spring/
Brooke Bunce Going to a GaGa concert, I’d
summer!
wear spikes, studs, shoulder pads, leather, lace,
Jamie Ratermann I am ready for some bright
chains...and meat.
colors, skirts and strappy heels. I also look forward to being tan and the sundresses with boyfriend blazers, of course!
Scott Lambert I’m excited to not be wearing dark winter colors anymore!!!
Sami Hurr I looking forward to all the new bathing suits, boho style!
Bradley Parks I’d wear stilts to a Gaga show. Zipped Magazine I’d show up in an egg! Just kidding, I’d go with sunglasses, big hair and anything hot pink
Zachary Weiss I’d rock that metal beard plate like the dude in the Bad Romance vid lol
Allen Henry I’d try to imitate the infamous
Rebecca Collins tops & sunny yellow sheers!
kermit the frog outfit if i went to see @ladygaga
Brooke Bunce I am super pumped for rompers,
Jamie Ratermann My craziest heels, Bow tie
jumpers, overalls! :)
hair and a leather leotard!
PHOTO BY AMERICANISTADECHIAPA S 12 | THREAD
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in good fashion
> > > S WU
O
FOLL
MAG D A E R H M/T O MAG C . D R A E E T R T I H T W T OM/ C . K O O FACEB
JEFF KOLADA The album cover re-creation photos are amazing. Plus 100+ more pages of awesomeness. Go Thread!
NSPEARS13
KELSEYSPELLMAN Kelsey
KIERSTEN BONIFANT loving that you mixed it up this issue with the 6 Looks We Like!! great idea.
spellMan
huge shoutout to @threadmag for another amazing February issue! everyone needs to check it out now!
nicole spears
@threadmag LOVE the february issue! Especially the In Good Fashion, I want a pura vida bracelet right now!
CONNOR RIDIC GODDARD
WESLEYLOWERY wesley lowery
The magazine is PHENOMENAL as usual. SOOO happy to be a part of my Thready family. Love you all! <3 MUAH!
The latest issue of @threadmag is featured on the front page of Cover Junkie. Congrats guys, and great issue.
HEATHERFARR12 heather farr
CHRIS RATERMANN The Feb issue
Obsessed and impressed with the new @threadmag. Especially love the album shout-outs on page 98-111.
is incredible! I love the embedded video in this online magazine. The library scene and the OU dance school videos were fun and entertaining. Another outstanding edition!
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Pants from Athens Underground
Since not many men want to be wearing a suit jacket when walking outside, we opted for a breezy black jacket with a lighter fabric for spring.
We paired the leather jacket with a white cotton shirt adorned with feathers for an unexpected cool vibe.
bottega veneta
These pants play with the loose and light fabric feel that appeared many times on the runway, adding a casual vibe to the look.
runwayrealway
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By ALI MAZZOTTA and KAYLYN HLAVTAY Photos by JEFF KOLADA
ormal and casual wear were the buzz in the spring 2011 collection of Bottega Veneta. From the monochrome tones of green, tan, white and brown, the collection displayed a minimalistic theme, while still holding on to the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s urban formality. A variety of leather, cotton and fitted suit jackets gave way to an edgy, yet sophisticated look. Creative director of the brand, Tomas Maier, kept pants slouchy and wrinkled while the jackets re14 | THREAD
mained fitted allowing everyday style to still be intact. Understated pieces of white and desert shades were evident in crew neck T-shirts and button downs. An urban twist was apparent in over-the-shoulder messenger leather bags and high top shoes and sandals, which go against the typical leather loafers and business carryall. The overall collection was filled with military tones that can be worn anywhere one wants to travel this spring season.
seams This bouclĂŠ jacket adds unexpected texture and neutralizes the bright top and shorts.
This scalloped chiffon top adds color & style to the outfit.
A
thens is getting warm, students are wearing shorts to class and the talk of fests is reverberating around campus. Spring is in the air and what better time to try one of the hottest spring ready-to-wear collections than now. For her spring collection, designer Rachel Roy kept it effortless. Her line displayed bold, jewel-toned colors and metallic prints. Roy also belted her pieces, all of which can all be
rachel roy How fabulous are these strappy shoes?
mixed and matched. To achieve the Rachel Roy look, wear bright and bold colors â&#x20AC;&#x201D; like this neon yellow chiffon top from H&M, hot red shorts and pastel pink skinny belt from Forever 21. To break up the shock of these vibrant colors, pair this look with a black and white jacket from BCBGeneration. Whether going to class or going out with friends, this spring look is sure to keep all eyes on you. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 15
Illustration by LINLEY MYERS
streetpeeps Photos by TYLER CLOSE
HOW DOES YOUR SIB INFLUENCE YOUR STYLE?
“We do not influence each other the way we dress. Maddie is more simplistic and all about function when it comes to what she wears. Will is more retro and hip/hop in terms of what he wears.” MADDIE & WILL MEYER
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“No, we do not influence each other the way we dress, mostly because we are brother and sister and do not find the same things attractive. But, in general, we are both pretty casual in what we wear.” COURTNEY & CONNOR MCHENRY
“Yes, we definitely influence each other when it comes to what we like to wear. We are both into American Eagle and Victoria’s Secret type apparel.” TIFFANY (LEFT) & ASHLEY COLEMAN
“We do not influence each other on the way we dress. I (Jake) dress more business causal and Libby dresses more alternative and earthy.” JAKE & LIBBY NEWTON
“Yes, we do influence each other in the way we both dress. We both enjoy clothing like Victoria’s Secret, Forever 21 and Anthropologie.” ALI (LEFT) & TRISHA (RIGHT) TIGHE
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blogger of the month
sportsstyle By BRADLEY PARKS Photo by LISA BEGGS
F
or those looking for a reminder that summer is on its way, baseball spring training has recently begun. But, with the NBA just past the All-Star Break, the NHL swinging into the second half of the season, and NCAA basketball getting into the most exciting portion of the season (see: March Madness), it is a bit tough to get excited for baseball so soon. However, let me remind you of a few things that come with baseball season: warm weather, sunshine, barbecues, swimming pools, shorts, tans and baseball caps. I probably had you at warm weather, didn’t I? Yes, friends, it is coming and spring training is just the first taste of spring. Remember those baseball caps I mentioned earlier? Probably not, since you’re still probably hanging on warm weather. No matter! I’ll remind you once more of those contoured crowns caressing your craniums. I’m sure you’ve seen them all around: the flat bill baseball caps. Major League Baseball probably didn’t imagine they would create this big of a fashion statement with their fancy hats. But what is it that makes “The Official On-Field Cap of MLB” so appealing? A few years ago, the straight bill was often seen as kiddish and those who wore them risked being called Jesper Parnevik, a professional golfer famous for his flat bill hats. Now you can hardly go anywhere without seeing
at least one person wearing the cap of their favorite team. New Era, the company behind the caps, came out with the new line of 59Fifty caps a few years ago featuring a black underbill, rather than the previous gray and green underbills. The biggest change to these caps, which most likely brought about their popularity boom, was the switch from wool to polyester. It makes a lot of sense, really. In the heat of summer during baseball season, the last thing a player or a fan wants to have on their head is a thick wool cap. Think about it: How pleasant could 90 to 100 degree summers be for sheep? Fans all around love to support their teams and the great thing about the 59Fifty is that it is the authentic cap. No matter how old or young you are, something about having the real deal makes you feel happy inside. It’s a good feeling for every baseball fan to know his or her favorite ball player is wearing the same cap. While you’re gearing up for this baseball season, embrace that little kid inside of you and go buy one of these caps with your favorite team’s logo embroidered on the front. Ladies and gentlemen, in anticipation of springtime and warm weather and baseball, please rise and put on your caps. Just be sure to remove them when “The Star-Spangled Banner” starts.
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Look
1 S T Y L E
1
<< red suspenders
accessories 20 | THREAD
With menswear increasingly becoming a part of womenswear, suspenders create s pop of color and style to any outfit. A button down with a ruffled detail is a key pairing for suspenders, both in a solid color. These red suspenders are an outof-the-ordinary accessory that dress up any pair of jeans and makes any outfit look polished and clean.
S U S P E N D
into style By EMILY KOENIG | Photos by STEVE ROSS
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S T Y L E
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black suspenders>> For men, suspenders have been pulled out of older businessmenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s closets and put onto men of every age for a classic look. As seen with the ladies, the suspenders look for men is best worn with a button down.
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S T Y L E
3
<< leather detail suspenders
Suspenders with patterned accents are a great way to add detail to a basic backdrop like a blue button-down shirt. The simplicity of the shirt is complimented by detailed stitching and leather accents of the suspenders. With the shirt as a canvas, the suspenders are an unexpected feature with a big presence.
S U S P E N D
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maintainedmane By LAURA STRAUB Photos by MICHAEL MAURER and KELLY CLINE
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ts almost springtime in Athens, and that means the sun is coming out and the hats are coming off. Without bulky hats or crocheted headbands covering your tresses, there are so many more options for styling your locks.
For girls, braids are always a fun and simple style. Those who are tired of traditional braids, a fishtail is the perfect option. Also known as a herringbone braid, they look much more complicated than they actually are.
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the fishtail
1 2 3 4 5 28 | THREAD
Simply divide the hair in two sections.
Take a small strand from the outside of the left section and join it with the right.
Then take a small section from the outside of the right side and join it with the left.
It will create a crisscross look. Keep repeating the cycle until you run out of hair.
Finish off the braid with an accented elastic or add a flower or headband for extra flair.
seams
easy alternatives
T
here is no need to worry if your hair is not quite long enough for a fishtail. A small French braid close to your hairline and pinned on the side of your head instantly adds interest to a plain hairstyle. Start with three thin strands of hair and begin to braid, gradually picking up more hair into each strand. Pin it with an embellished bobby pin or clip. There are lots of hairstyles for girls for spring, but it's time for the guys to take off their hats, too. A retro, slicked back look is easy and fast â&#x20AC;&#x201D; perfect for your average guy. Rub some styling mousse or gel into the palms of your hand and slick the hair from front to back. Preciseness is not important because tousled hair is sexy. Next time you are wondering what to do with your mane, leave you winter headgear in the closet and try a new look. From fishtails to slicked back hair, you cannot go wrong with maintaining the mane.
Illustrations by LINLEY MYERS
!
TIONS A C I L T PUB FFEE N E D U RT ST STARD â&#x20AC;˘ CO O P P WE SU ROZEN CU F
Located on the corner of Court Street & Union Street OUTHREADMAG.COM | 29
Illu str ati on s
by
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S UHA
middleeastern style By NADIA SHENG Photos by PHIL SAM
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n the eyes of the fashion industry, the most looked at markets for fashion are those that have the largest potential for growth. In light of the mounting anti-government demonstrations, sights are set on the Middle East. Global leaders are working toward fitting the needs and wants of the people — and designers aren't far behind.
SAUDI ARABIA AND WOMEN'S FASHION Saudi Arabia's vast landscape allows for mega malls that attract even the choosiest of shoppers. Montaha Aldoaan, a graduate student of biological science, from Jeddah. Shopping in the cosmopolitan city is an event that Aldoann finds hard to replicate in Athens. “When I go shopping here, there are some things I don't like because, you know, most women in the Middle East like to wear clothes with a lot of things on it — like crystals,” Aldoaan said. 30 | THREAD
The upscale Tahlia Street in Saudi Arabia sets the scene for Saudi fashion and is home to many boutiques that often double up as outlets for women to custom embroider designs on their “abayas,” or long over garments. The “black uniform” abaya is what most people envision when thinking about Middle Eastern dress, but variety exists. “Nowadays they look like dresses and many teenagers like to wear colored abayas,” Aldoaan said. However, teens mostly like to decorate the back of their abaya with unique logos and pictures. Many misconceive women’s fashion in Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries to be either otherworldly or unimportant. “Most people don't know about our fashion because they can't see it, it's just between us,” Aldoaan said. Heavily beaded and often fine fabrics, gold accents and heavy makeup are becoming in-
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creasingly mainstream and popular. The cateye style of lining eyes compliments and accentuates what many across the globe hold to be the main facial feature on an individual. “Women in Saudi like to color their hair, doing their eyebrows, and nails, everything,” Aldoaan said. “And they usually go to the salon to do it.”
JORDAN AND MEN'S FASHION When discussing fashion in the Middle East, Ahmed Tarawneh, a first-year graduate student studying civil engineering from south Jordan, said it's important to understand that influences stem from the region's long spanning traditions, religious cultures and globalization. For instance, Ahmed said the heads of Jordan's many different tribes are distinguished by the “bisht,” or cloak. Husam Hajar, a second-year graduate student studying civil engineering is from Salt, a city in northern Jordan. If one wants to find out what's hot in Jordan, Husam said flipping through magazines won't do justice. “If you want to follow the fashion, it's easier to go to universities and the capital Amman,” said Husam. On the other hand, Husam said tight knit communities in Jordan aren't shy about making their opinions known. “In the southern parts especially, whenever someone follows a certain fashion that doesn't meet the community, he will be criticized,” he said. For instance, the “sagging” trend remains a favorite among young Jordanian men. Husam said that, along with brightly colored shirts, baggy pants are not seen as tasteful by the majority. “It's the traditions of the community, and I don't think that wearing this type of pants is good for such a community,” Husam said. Although the fashion movement is more 32 | THREAD
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“Most people don’t know about our fashion because they can’t see it, it’s just between us.” MONTAHA ALDOAN OUTHREADMAG.COM | 33
apparent in Jordan's neighboring countries, with international designers such as Elie Sabb and Reem Arcra hailing from Lebanon, the region incorporates what's popular in Egypt, Turkey and Lebanon.
ATHENS AND MIDDLE EASTERN INSPIRED STYLE “I have ralli quilts on the walls, Uzbek and Tajik suzani embroideries, lamps and tables 34 | THREAD
from Morocco and also stuff from T.J. Maxx and Gabes,” explains Hilarie Burhans, cofounder of Salaam. She has a self-described eclectic sense of style that goes along with her love of food and fabrics. “That eclecticism suits the food that I serve. I don't pretend to serve incredibly, down to the detail, authentic stuff,” Burhans said. “A lot of ours is inspired by.” Salaam aims to create a fun atmosphere by having belly dancers entertain and entice on Saturday nights, Burhans said. “I want people to walk in the door and feel like they've gone on a mini vacation, and belly dancing is one more thing we do to contribute to the ambiance.” Having spent some of her childhood in Pakistan, Burhans fell in love with the blue and green combination found in Jaipur blue pottery. “And it’s not just in the restaurant … I look for a fabric that has that mix when I'm making a shirt.” “I still love that layered look. A dress over pants is something I do a lot,” Burhans said. Whether it is in relation to the region's deep rooted tradition or the rapidly changing times, there remains a circle of cause and effect when it comes to the reasons for one's fashion choices.
diy
repairyourpair the art of reinventing your jeans By SOPHIE FREDERICKSEN Photos by EMILY NEWMAN Illustrations by MEGAN HILLMAN
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good pair of jeans is a wardrobe essential, and nothing is worse than when your favorite pair of jeans are not pulling their weight. Ripped pockets, torn inseams, holes and frayed bottoms on too-long jeans — it’s bound to happen on a well-worn pair. Instead of casting the jeans aside or paying to have them fixed by a tailor (or mom), break out a needle and thread and revive your favorite denim yourself.
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hemming jeans Materials:
MATCHING THREAD
PINS OR SAFETY PINS
STEP ONE Try on your jeans with the shoes youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d usually wear with them. Then, cuff the jeans making sure the cuff ends at the desired length and pin the cuff.
STEP TWO Measure the length of the cuff (ignoring the original hem) and divide the length in half. Using the new length, re-pin the cuff.
STEP THREE Stitch in a line below the original seam all the way around.
STEP FOUR Turn the jeans inside out. There will be a little bit of fabric left over. Tack this fabric down by sewing a few stitches at the side seams.
STEP FIVE Now you have perfectly hemmed jeans.
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MEASURING TAPE
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Denimtherapy.com
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iiiiippp. Instead of replacing damaged jeans yourself or opening the wallet for a brand-new pair, denimtherapy.com let’s you send them in for a new stitch. It’s just $7 per inch. Here are the personal experiences by two Ohio University students who recently used the website.
“They were awesome about answering my questions via e-mail and Twitter. Because I'm a cheap college kid, I mailed my jeans in an old Franzia box taped up with cheetah duct tape. When I tweeted that that was how I was sending my item to them, they tweeted back at me a few times and even Twitpic'd my package when they received it! Because I originally spent about $70 for my Gap jeans, I thought my $35 repair was just a minor investment.” —MADDIE STEVENS, SENIOR STUDYING PUBLIC RELATIONS
“Last November, I thought my jeans had ripped beyond all repair. I was excited about the whole process, but the quote I got was $42 when I had been expecting $21 at the very most. I sadly had to decline the quoted price, simply because it seemed too steep for the original retail value and the amount of work needed. Luckily, Denim Therapy offered to donate my jeans to charity when it was all said and done. For future experiences, I will definitely only send in high-priced jeans and brace myself for a steep quote!” —MAKENZIE BOWKER, SENIOR STUDYING MAGAZINE JOURNALISM
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torn pockets Materials:
MATCHING THREAD
STRONG NEEDLE
STEP ONE Turn the jeans inside out.
STEP TWO Next, stitch the patch over the hole made by the torn pocket.
STEP THREE Stitch the pocket back in place onto the patch stitching over the original stitches.
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STEP FOUR Trim excess thread and fringe for a clean looking pocket.
STEP FIVE To repair a torn belt loop you follow the same steps.
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JEAN PATCH
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fixing holes Materials:
MATCHING THREAD
SANDPAPER
CONTRASTING FABRIC
STEP ONE Turn the jeans inside out.
STEP TWO Trim away any fringe that gets in the way to give a clean stitch.
STEP THREE
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Hold the ripped edges together and stitch the hole up. Make sure you aren’t stitching on the fringe edges because the jeans will just rip again. Backtrack over the stitches.
STEP FOUR Another option is to stitch a piece of contrasting fabric to the backside of the hole so that the fabric shows through.
STEP FIVE
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If the hole is small and in a location that doesn’t overexpose (thighs, knee), embrace it. Rub sandpaper over the hole and jeans to create a distressed look.
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buildingblossoms By OLIVIA OHLIN Photos by SARAH BALSER
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ately, it seems like students have been waking up each morning to a canvas of gray that can only be described as “blah.” Anticipation of the blue skies and sunshine that springtime brings to Athens is on everyone’s mind. While waiting on a lifestyle of daily outdoor lounging, weekly fests and a verdant landscape, create a touch of spring to turn your dorm or apartment into a winter weather retreat. Spring and flowers go hand-in-hand, and there is no better reminder of the season than a vase filled with bright blossoms. A few supplies, some of which may already be lying around, and good ol’ handy-work are the only tools needed to bring spring to your space early.
SUPPLIES paint (a little goes a long way) sponges, brushes or even your hands! 1 thin panel of wood (we used a 2x2 panel of birch from Lowe’s) 1 yard ribbon (optional) 1 mason jar (or any glass food jar you may have in your recycle bin) 4-5 artificial flowers/real flowers/homemade ones out of coffee filters 4 nails, screws or a drill 1 yard hanging wire
Begin by painting the wood. A solid color makes flowers the focal point, but feel free to sponge-paint, decorate with stripes, design a pattern, add glitter, sand down the paint for a OUTHREADMAG.COM | 41
distressed look, splatter paint, stencil or even finger-paint the back-splash. The possibilities are endless, so let your mind run wild. While waiting for the wood to dry, arrange your choice of flowers in the mason jar. Choose a color theme, whether it be monochromatic, a color family, complementary, whatever. To add some more color, place glass marbles at the bottom of the jar. Ribbon adds some shine to the jar with a simple bow. Have an old bracelet or necklace collecting dust in your jewelry box? Hang it around the jar to fancy the vase up, or opt for the vintage route by staying simple and leave the hanging wire wrapped around the jar exposed. Now it’s time to bust out the hard hats and power tools. Grab a screwdriver to finish off the masterpiece. Mark with a pencil where the screws will be placed. Then, fasten one on each side of the jar and two toward the top of the board. Make sure to only screw them in half way. Twist the hanging wire around the screws 42 | THREAD
or secure it behind the board through the holes created. Wrap wire around the mason jar Twist more around the screw or hole on the other side, and make sure the jar is suspended and secure. Next, twist another piece of wire around the top two screws or holes to allow it to hang. Don’t be discouraged if the jar or flowers aren’t cooperating. If the flowers are flopping forward, drill another hole or add another screw on the board and wrap wire around the flower to attach it to the board. Just make sure to hide the adjustment under pedals or leaves. If the jar tips from side to side, secure the base of the jar with wire, too. Spring has now sprung in your humble abode. Hang it on the wall, a bulletin board, a hook on your door or any other area where it will be seen often. Little pops of color that bring a bright, friendly reminder of OU’s favorite quarter in your room can go a long way. Let’s hope Punxsutawney Phil’s early spring prediction is true. While waiting for the remaining weeks to pass, fill your space with these fun treasures.
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springtransition Discover 3 simple ways to transform seasonal clothing
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By CARLY WIITA Photos by CONOR LAMB
inter weather is still in full swing, but stores have been teasing shoppers with spring lines for months now. Since most college students don’t have the money to run out and buy a whole new wardrobe for the upcoming warmer days, turning winter favorites into spring essentials can help cure the March blues.
THERMAL A worn-out thermal can be easily turned into a V-neck perfect to wear under cardigans on chilly spring days. Take a long thermal, cut off about 2 inches from the bottom and hem the shirt. Shorter lengths are better for the warmer months. Cut off the sleeves to a length you prefer, whether it’s three-quarter length or a regular T-shirt length. Hem the sleeves when done so you’re sleeves stay put and don’t fray. To turn a crewneck into a V, make an outline of where you want the V-neck to be — whether it is a shallow or a deep cut is up to you. Cut out the fabric. Sew that excess fabric into the neck to create a hem. 44 | THREAD
JEANS It may not be quite warm enough for jorts, but cut-off capris are ideal for fresh spring days. Start out by cutting your skinnys just below the desired length. For us shorter folks, avoid cutting the jeans into capris that are tight in the calf because they tend to cut your legs in half and make you look shorter. Lucky taller girls can cut jeans a bit longer to accentuate height. For a cuffed capri, roll each pant leg somewhere below the knee and above the ankle, using about a 2-inch cuff. Be ready to rock all your new items as the weather starts to change and surprise your friends with your new recycled wardrobe.
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CREW NECK SWEATSHIRT Transform a classic crew neck sweatshirt into a short-sleeve boatneck for a top thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfect for in-between winter and spring days. This project can go in two directions: to cut out the trim/ hem at the bottom of the shirt to give it a looser feel or keep the hem for a more tailored look. For a standard boat-neck, cut out the original collar to about the middle of the shoulder. For a more relaxed, slouchier look, cut one side off the shoulder.
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artsyattire By BENTLEY WEISEL Photos by EMILY MARTIN
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he hallowed, aged Seigfred Hall houses more than a labyrinthesque exterior and countless works of art — it’s also the official home for the art students of Ohio University. Art majors of all sorts spend more than their fair share of free time in this building, working tirelessly on various projects. Such an investment easily affects an art student’s wardrobe. Not only are these students constantly inspired by everything around them, but they also have to choose their ensembles based on comfort and practicality to work and create their art. Therefore, their selected attire must be p r e - pared to experience anything. This can range from splatters of clay to splashes of paint and even smudges of charcoal — their clothing suffers in silence. Stephanie
int, a P l– y, C l a a r c o a nts’ C h studes Artlotheit all! c ce fa 46 | THREAD
Morrison, a junior studying commercial photography with a minor in studio art, tends to gravitate toward muted colors to accentuate her accessories and their more noticeable color for her personal style. She often opts for more comfortable threads throughout the week when she is in and out of Seigfred to work. “I worry about the colors I choose to wear more. I want them to flow well and have the right ones stand out,” Morrison said while wearing her working girl ensemble of comfortable jeans, a crew neck sweatshirt and a pair of well-worn moccasins. Katie Repas, a sophomore studying art, is all about the combination and usage of colors in her daily wardrobe. Whatever outfit she creates for herself she wears all day, despite the work she has to do in-studio. She claims to see art in everything and wears whatever will amuse her most that day. “I wear whatever I feel like being seen in that day,” Repas admitted, adding that “there is always that risk that I am going to mark a pair
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who what wear of pants or a sweater with paint, but it doesn’t bother me. The extra paint adds character.” Kyla Foster, a senior studying art history and art, bases her clothing choices on what she is doing that day. She prefers useful shoes and one-of-a-kind thrift store finds. Foster’s used clothing preference adds elements of frugality and individuality to her personal style, which is convenient when most pieces will likely become stained in some way or another. “We work with dirty materials, so that is how we look and dress most of the time,” Foster explained while wearing an over-sized “ugly man sweater,” cuffed jeans and clunky hiking boots. “Whatever I decide to wear to class is what I wear when I go other places,” Foster added. Devin Nolan, a senior studying painting, has a more laid-back outlook when it comes to creating his daily outfits, however, his artistic background is evident. He favors darker color combinations and wears things he does not mind getting dirty or ruined while in-studio. “Everything I wear eventually becomes dirty,” Nolan said, wearing a faded flannel shirt, green cargo pants and heavy boots, topped off with a purple hat. He added that “my regular clothes often become my work clothes because everything becomes dirty.” Comfort seems to be the common theme among the collection of art majors. So much of their time is spent working in-studio that their fashion thought process is based on the project they will be working on that day. Each art student’s style varies depending on his or her area of specialization. It is easier to identify and analyze the wardrobe differences from an inside perspective, as outsiders tend to stereotype art students’ fashion. “People always seem to label me as a hipster,” Nolan said. Art students are “pushed to
be individuals.” Though the stereotype for art students is definitely present, it is not necessarily taken or meant to have negative undertones. “I feel like artists dress alike because they have the same general mindset. We all think in artistic ways most of the time, which could come off in what we choose to wear. I highly doubt that my classmates wake up and say, ‘Today I will dress artistically!’ It just happens naturally,” Repas declared. It seems unanimous that as artists, their personal styles are affected by their art. More often than not, their ensembles for the day are worn to class, in the studio and even when going out with friends on weekends. To these art majors, fashion is seen as a personal form of expression and creativity. And, as Foster said, “Something is considered art anytime someone gets inspiration to create it.” OUTHREADMAG.COM | 49
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who what wear
garbagegetup By RYAN JUDY Photos by MARA GRUBER
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old and exhausted students are walking around uptown, and there’s something trashy creating a scene at the corner of Court and Union Streets. That trashy something is the newly formed Ohio University organization, the Environmental Theater Brigade (ETB). The 11-member group uses street theater, skits and dance to inform students and residents of ways they can protect and preserve the environment. There’s no missing the chants, hollers and, of course, wildly intricate attire the ETB employs. In fact, the costumes that the group wears are the main channel used to relay its message. Sierra Nagay, founder and director of the ETB, allows the team to take her ideas and
craft their costumes on their own, sending the message through appearance and performance. “I have a vision of what I want costumes to be, then I let everyone take their own reins,” she said. “I don’t make it my group. I make it our group.” Regarding the costumes, the group starts with basics — sweatpants and sweatshirts. They then add to it, making it more elaborate in style. “We get the trash from all over. We save all of our recycled items, stuff we like — drinks, pictures or things that say different things — and use them,” Nagay explained. For the ETB’s first skit, the group used “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle,” which was presented last Fall Quarter. “I wanted the whole skit to reflect how OUTHREADMAG.COM | 53
“We’re the trash, speaking for the environment. … The makeup we used was to represent how our trash is handled, so we made our faces looking all beat up.” SIERRA NAGAY much we are using, making ourselves form into a human sculpture of trash,” Nagay said. “We’re the trash, speaking for the environment. … The makeup we used was to represent how our trash is handled, so we made our faces looking all beat up.” With spring around the corner, the ETB is changing up their choices of skit and costume with a new presentation, “Mountain Top Removal.” Nagay, a senior studying theatre and international studies, is looking forward to showing off the new concept to the public. “Every single person will be a different part of the mountain: coal, dirt, trees, water and politicians that represent coal companies. We’re going to use actual sticks, dirt and crafts,” Nagay said. She intends to personify the dirt aspect of the skit. “I want to represent how beautiful dirt and soil really is,” she said. “I want people to be taken aback by my costume.” Along with helping the environment 54 | THREAD
through the ETB, Nagay uses her principles in deciding what to wear outside of the group. “Being environmentally friendly is a hard thing to shop for because it’s expensive, but there are other things you can do,” she said. “I’m all about shopping at Plato’s Closet, exchanging clothes with friends, recycling old clothes, bringing out old jeans, doing different things with them and reinventing your clothes.” Renee Harding, a freshman studying environmental biology, has noticed the ETB around campus and the community.
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“I think it’s really cool to see what they’re doing,” she said. “They’re really reaching out to the students and community through their message and especially their costumes.” For example, one of the group's main goals is to reach out to local Athens residents. “I support staying local, helping your community, making a movement and creating empowerment that helps getting you inspired,” Nagay said. The group exhibits its distinctive style around campus twice per quarter, making sure
they get noticed. “We’re going to be performing ‘Mountain Top Removal’ the last couple of weeks this quarter and the first couple of weeks in Spring Quarter,” Nagay said. “The last few weeks of Spring Quarter, we’re going to do alternative energy with focus on natural gas.” Nagay hopes the group continues thriving next year but wants to make sure one thing will remain: the costumes. “I feel the skits would not be what they are without the costumes,” she said. “It’s all about the visual experience, and I feel the costumes help convey that.” OUTHREADMAG.COM | 55
darkhorses By CATHERINE CALDWELL Photos by MARY HAUTMAN
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litz and glamour reign supreme in an arena where one’s appearance is just as crucial as a quality performance. In this equestrian pastime, riding ability is not the sole factor for judging-- a mix of talent, dress and poise shape a successful western rider. Wandering eyes can get lost in a ring of riders wearing vivid colors and gems that emit glistening reflections as they circle the arena saddled to a 1,200-pound prancing stallion. Among the colored clothes and emphasis on appearance, 25 girls chose to make a dramatic fashion statement by dressing in basic black. These black beauties, competing in identical, personally tailored ensembles, compose the Ohio University Western Equestrian Team (OUWET). Their sophisticated and streamlined all-black look not only adds an alternative allure, but also equalizes the riders, creating a greater sense of team unity. OUWET is making industry strides in being the first western Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) team to boast “team uniforms,” said Alissa Trucco, team president and OU senior studying journalism. “Showing western is a world of one-ofa-kind custom-made outfits with thousands of rhinestones costing between $2,000 and $4,000 each,” Trucco said, acknowledging the expenses involved in equestrian sports.
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“We went the complete opposite way this year with simple, starched and tailored black button-ups with the university logo embroidered on them.” The look of OUWET is essentially a uniform, the main piece being an $80 customized Brooks Brothers black dress shirt with the Ohio Bobcats emblem stitched on the left breast. The shirts are paired with plain black polyester slacks, fitted hats and boots and worn with a leather or suede belt with a decorative buckle, often awarded as a prize, to break up the black. A lot of thought goes into the rider’s appearance, from selecting a lipstick shade to the proper belt buckle and hat shape. Team members make a trip to the dry cleaner after every competition to have their shirts starched, ensuring a sleek look during performance. “I approve every outfit that gets worn at the shows from pants to boots to chaps to shirts, the amount of starch on the shirts and the shape and look of our cowboy hats,” Trucco said. “Horse shows can almost be a beauty pageant as much as anything else. You have to be talented, but if every hair isn’t in place or you don’t look good doing it, then it won’t happen.” The decision to eschew bling is, said Trucco, “completely unheard of” in their niche equestrian sport. Yet this daring
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“Horse shows can almost be a beauty pageant as much as anything else.” - ALISSA TRUCCO
and demure black wardrobe choice is proving fashionably functional. The all-black outfits are affordable, accentuate performance, and create a sense of team unity. “In horsemanship, there is a lot of emphasis on posture in appearance, which is strictly linear. You want your body to form a straight line, and the streamlined black outfits work well in helping us achieve this,” said Taylor Longman, a junior studying English education and
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a three-year OUWET veteran. Sophomore Laura Bukowski likes the team’s outfit adaptation for its price and for placing the emphasis on the rider, not the outfit. “Before, we were responsible for getting our own outfits. Once we started wearing the new uniforms, we got many compliments from other teams and bystanders,” she said. “The sleek feel levels the playing field and makes us all equal. Plus the black profiles really well.” OUWET is a mix of students from all different backgrounds and abilities. However, team members all have one thing in common: their identical outfits and love of horses, which bonds them together, setting the OUWET apart from other organizations. Trucco’s passion for her teammates’ success is evident in all her efforts. Claiming her team “works way too hard to not look presentable,” Trucco’s installation of team uniforms assures that OUWET’s riders are not overlooked in the competition. She would know a thing or two about standing out — she has been ranked among the top five riders in the world. “Showing horses isn’t technically a team
sport,” Trucco explained, “but these outfits give everyone a sense of belonging to the organization, no matter what their skill level. Between people who have been ranked nationally to people who have never ridden before, you can’t tell just by looking at them.” A sense of connection is evident not only in the team’s outfits and actions, but in the members’ involvement outside the stables through service and social activities. Although OUWET receives some funding from Ohio University’s club sports, horseback riding is a costly hobby. Longman, who is in charge of the team’s fundraising and community service, organizes activities and fundraising events for their competitions. On average, OUWET has two shows per quarter, competing as the only club team against varsity teams at schools like Miami University of Ohio. In addition to weekly meetings and practices at Coach Tony Kennedy’s farm in Tupper Plains, team members participate in 20 hours of community service per quarter. Past events include volunteering at the Athens dog shelter, Good Earth Farm and Last Chance Corral. Longman is in the works of organizing a 5K in the spring to raise money for their next show. For horse lovers like Longman, OUWET is more than just an extracurricular; it’s an outlet and a safe haven where horse lovers can feel a sense of belonging. “I didn’t even know this was offered when I came to Athens,” Longman admitted. “I met Alissa and some of the other girls at the Campus Involvement Fair my freshman year. The team really helped me find my place at OU.” While fully capturing the captivating world of horses and its politics is no easy task, it is evident that OUWET is in an arena of its own, proving the dark horse often noses through. “After all,” Trucco laughed, “everyone looks good in black.”
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OUonline
ohio university, at your fingertips
REGISTRATION BEGINS FEBRUARY 8th for Spring Quarter on-campus and online courses WWW.OHIO.EDU/OUONLINE
SUMMER SESSIONS WINTER INTERSESSION OU ONLINE
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www.djishinelive.bandcamp.com
By MIKE ZORBAS
Fatal Attraction Check out our behind-the-scenes video of
filmed at Tonyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tavern
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Fatal Attraction Styled by JAMIE RATERMANN Photos by SARA SPIEGEL
After immersing yourself in film noir culture, the wish to emulate femme fatale swagger and attract men in tailored suits is hard to ignore. Actors and actresses, including the likes of Jack Nicholson, Humphrey Bogart, Faye Dunaway and Sharon Stone, have played these coveted roles since the â&#x20AC;&#x2122;50s. Thread wants to give you the guide to your inner seductress or power male. Become the intrigue of desire with unending confidence and an irresistible attitude.
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Embrace your sexuality through low-cut dresses, a dark red lip and a mysterious edge. For men, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t underestimate the power suit. A well-tailored suit can be a simple way to drive women wild. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 65
Femme fatales are known to use their sexual allure to win over power. With an eye-catching hair accessory and a body hugging skirt, you can pull the opposite your way. 66sex | THREAD
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Suspenders and skinny ties aren’t just for your father. Dress it up a bit next time you go uptown, and we’ll bet the ladies will give you a second look. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 71
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public
decency Styled by SAM FINK Photos by BECKY WILLIAMS and CAITLIN MCCONNELL Illustrations by CHELSEA LEASURE
Lingerie rarely brings to mind things you can wear out of the house, let alone out of the bedroom. But new lingerie-inspired fashions have changed our perspective on this trend. Bring out the lace, satin, corsets and flowy kimonoes this season, and don’t forget the killer confidence. Like our models, you can wear these looks in the most unexpected places like the grocery store, laundry mat, car wash or even chowing down on your favorite hot dog at O’Betty’s.
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The latest trend in lingerie fashion is the bralette. Channel Rihanna in this look by pairing it with a blazer or cardigan. Add a pair of red pumps for some added sex appeal.
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This all lace dress mimics lingerie in the sweetest way possible. The Miu Miu floral inspired Mary Janes add to this|innocent 78 THREAD yet sexy look.
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A floral kimono wrap is the perfect way to rock this trend during spring in a subtle way. Pair it with a pencil skirt and heels for a sophisticated meets seductive look. 82 | THREAD
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looks we like
Date Night
Illustrations by LIN LEY MYER
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coffee house cool With a look like this, you won’t need caffeine to feel the energy between you and your date. Updated denim makes a simple outfit look café chic when paired with bold accessories. Wearing warm earth tones will melt your date’s heart and allow your natural chemistry to thrive. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 87
game day ready Break the ice by wearing your favorite sports teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s jersey or logo. Patterned tights, ornate jewelry and classic boots take a simple look to the next level. Your teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s last game may be the topic of conversation, but your outfit will be stealing all of the attention. 88 | THREAD
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lights, camera, action
Even if your date isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t starring in the latest romantic comedy, you can still dress like a movie star. Comfort is a must when watching a movie, so jeans and a relaxed top are ideal. Laying jewel tones and natural stones over neutral pieces will take your dateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attention away from the big screen and on to you.
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OPPO SITES ATTRACT By ANNA LUCZKOW and PAT DOYLE Photos by LISA BEGGS
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I think the clothes you wear definitely do send a message.”
GENERATING GENDERS
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istorically, fashion has been worn to send a message. Whether signaling socioeconomic status, cultural character or personal preference by showcasing elements of identity, trends seem to solidify a purpose contrary to their traditional treatment for covering up. “I think the clothes you wear definitely do send a message,” said Nichole Shippen, a professor of women’s and gender studies at Ohio University. “If you’re unkempt or don’t wear socks, it’s going to send a different message than someone who looks very professional.” Conflicting opinions on levels of attractiveness and appropriateness are inevitable, as to what’s in style. But even more segmented is the style sentiments between the sexes. While one gender thinks a
NICHOLE SHIPPEN
look is exquisite and eloquent, the other may think it appears awkward and injudicious. This barrier between the two has spurred a blogosphere of defenses for each mode of dress. For females, there is The Man Repeller (manrepeller.com), a site by fashion-forward women who realize fashion trends are sexy but men don’t always agree. For men, there is The Urban Gentleman (theurbangent.com), a blog dedicated to a modern gentleman who is dedicated to style, class, culture and swag. “I think that people who don’t necessarily care about the fashion world can still appreciate people who are fashionable,” Shippen said. But the same cannot always be said for the rift between the female and male fashion worlds, where clothing creates confusion and seasonal styles continue to shock the senses. As each gender generates their own dress code, the opposite attempts to interpret the outlandish outfit expressions of the other. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 93
Fearlessly Fashionable Females
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igh-end female fashion is so often tailored from the male perspective as excessive, elaborate, unnecessary — a turnoff. A labyrinth stitched of grotesque patterns, menacing jewelry, offensive fits, hazardous shoe heights and avant-garde make-up distract men from any otherwise attractive qualities. The Man Repeller, which defines its title as “outfitting oneself in a sartorially offensive way that will result in repelling members of the opposite sex,” seeks out styles that typically turn the average male off, and could result in a solo fashion season for women who rock them too heavily. Items in question include jumpsuits, boyfriend jeans, body chains, harem pants, feathered styles and most shoes that extend beyond the basic black heel. Ohio University males should count themselves lucky that they don’t have to fumble with frivolous furs, unsightly animal prints and shoulder pads on a daily basis, as the college campus environment induces extreme downplay of the latest runway looks. Even so, it appears that the Athens effeminate appearance continues to awe the opposing sex. Tom Busch, a junior studying communications studies, condemned campus women for their misuse of a certain college closet staple. “I have one point to make: leggings are not pants,” Busch said. He does not take women seriously who swap slacks for spandex. “Grown women do not wear leggings. They wear pants. They wear dresses. They wear skirts. And if you have a skirt that you need to wear leggings under, you probably need a new skirt.” Busch cited women who frequent some
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Court Street bars such as The Crystal for this common offense and as his main motive for avoiding the popular bar, advising women to garner their class by shopping at places like Banana Republic or Express. Adam Mosley, a junior studying finance and pre-law, also recommended ladies take the classy route, at least if they’re aiming for his attention. “Business casual, now that’s a classy look,” Mosley said, a dogma perhaps emblematic of his finance and pre-law studies. Despite the late night “showing” of the short, tight and over-expository dress, Mosley said that for the most part OU women dress decently. “A girl with opened-toed heels, you can’t get much better than that,” said John Hicks, a junior studying economics. However, at a university where a parade of pajamas hit the bricks each morning, a growing affection toward an otherwise real world fashion felony is evident. “I’m not gonna lie. I really do like girls in hoodies. And, those Victoria’s Secret yoga pants are legit!” Hicks said. But, the infamous post-sleepover morning
“
I never pay attention to the things girls wear that I don’t like.”
stroll walks in a shameful category all its own. “Girls cannot pull off guys’ gym shorts,” said Hicks. Among other items that baffled boys were capris and longer shorts, the distaste deriving from the pants versus shorts categorical dynamic. Fanny packs, brimmed hats and onepiece suits, of which Sanderson warned very few can pull off, deeply disturbed male counterparts as well. If steadfast fashionistas adhering to the gospels of Nylon and Vogue have given up on ever finding a man with an appreciation for female fashion, fear not. There is hope for the glamorous gentleman-seeker whose wardrobe also reeks of man repellent.
EVAN COLE
“I never pay attention to the things girls wear that I don’t like,” said Evan Cole, a senior studying sociology and history. His appreciation for the bohemian style and literary look (his terminology) make him a keeper. However, a man with such respect for womenswear is not single. “She has a very broad style,” said Cole about his girlfriend. “What she wears is dependent on what she’s doing. It’s always occasionally appropriate.” Occasionally appropriate: Perhaps this is the key to configuring closets and reeling in the attention of male suitors. Like finding a balance in heels, there seems to be a tipping point between male repeller and fashion fiend.
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Man-tastically Misunderstood Males
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n a fashion world based around the prim and proper, it’s not always easy for OU men to dress to impress the women on campus. Instead of drifting aimlessly through a sea of Persian headbands and leather mini-skirts, guys tend to wear clothing that makes sense. This could make it seem that a lot of men are unfashionable, but in actuality, male fashion is misunderstood. It’s not that dudes are incapable of understanding women’s fashion. They just have difficulty gauging it sometimes. For example, if a girlfriend has a guy’s opinion about her new furry vest, most men would reply with a compliment of its warmth. This is, unfortunately, why some guys come off as being oblivious to the fashion scene. When, in reality, most guys are actually thinking that that girl resembles a badger every time she pulls on the vest, but that does not necessarily always go over well. Boys are not the only ones who are puzzled by some of the fashion choices of the other sex. Women have different tastes when it comes to particular styles, but one combination still creates a stir among the genders. Despite all the hate, guys have continued to rock this combo for centuries, and possibly decades. Sandals and socks are the culprits. Once deemed a look fit only for the fashionably challenged, girls have found this combination to be one of the most appalling sights on campus. “I can’t stand it,” said Brittany Smith, a junior studying communication sciences and disorders. “Socks and sandals really just don’t make sense. They’re awkward, goofy and above all, my dad wears them, too.” But girls disregard why guys wear this combo in the first place: Guys can wear sandals
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at any time of the year! Let’s face it ladies, it looks kind of sexy, too. With other fashion items, the opinions varied drastically. In fact, the article of clothing that stirred up the most debate is also one of the least exposed. Interestingly enough, women who had similar tastes in men had conflicting ideas when it came to the nether region garments. While boxers are the only choice for some women, others melt at the sight of some fine tighty-whiteys. “Boxer shorts are for third graders,” said Brogan Carder, a senior studying painting. In the battle of male underpants, it seems there is no victor. “Show me a man in boxer briefs and I’ll show you a man who desperately needs attention,” said Katie Doup, a junior studying broadcast journalism. While sandals and socks may be considered the finest way to keep females away, they are by no means the most horrendous items inside the male
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It’s great to see guys all dressed up, but I personally think a guy looks his best when he is most comfortable.” wardrobe. Supposedly, the single most hated piece of clothing is a “man classic”. In fact, several OU women said that they are dreading Spring Quarter because of the men who will most likely be strutting in this garment. Often labeled as, “hideous,” “atrocious” or “too short”, the jean shorts, also known as jorts, have tortured the eyes of females all over this campus. “Jean shorts are out of the question,” said Carder. But despite all the hate swirling around the fashionably functional garment, some girls on campus have found a level of beauty
CHELSEA ACOCK
within the jorts. “I enjoy a fine pair of jorts,” said Emma Burke, a student studying integrated language arts. “I just hope they aren’t tighter than my own.” An excellent pair of jeans is priceless, but the calf area can get a little cozy in the summer heat. Herein lies the beauty of the jorts. With just a few quick snips of some scissors, that favorite pair of jeans can instantly become a pair of shorts. While individuality and creativity are two of the strongest forces in fashion, women ironically admitted that the look they enjoy most on campus is simply a nice pair of jeans (not jorts) and a white T-shirt. “It’s great to see guys all dressed up, but I personally think a guy looks his best when he is most comfortable,” said Chelsea Acock, a senior studying communication sciences and disorders. Acock is not alone in her assessment either. Women all over campus made this exact claim. In a fashion world that so heavily stresses extravagance, OU women instead find the idea of simplicity most intriguing. While the ladies may not appreciate the ridiculous Big Dog sweater and jort combination, they will appreciate the confidence to which it emanates.
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Leggings, rompers, jorts and sandals with socks aside, at the end of the day these aren’t just clothes to be taken off. Fashion is not a facade; rather, it’s an outward display of individual tastes and a reflection of character. Assembly of attire should be alluring, enticing and seducing — not repulsive. To reject one on the basis of the length of their shorts or style of their undergarments is outmoded and ignorant. To approach a member of the opposite sex on a matter of intrigue is much more the sophisticated style. Just as clothes don’t make the man, they don’t make the woman either, and whether one chooses to “hit on” or “hate on,” he or she should not be hindered on detail of dress. So do the other sex a favor out of decency. Instead of mentally undressing them, pay attention to their external appearance and admire their outfit. Then, go and find out the inspiration behind their personal look.
VISIT THE BLOGS FROM “OPPOSITES ATTRACT” 1) MAN REPELLER www.manrepeller.com A site by fashion-forward women who realize fashion trends are sexy but men don’t always agree. 2) URBAN GENTLEMAN www.theurbangent.com A blog dedicated to a modern gentleman who is dedicated to style, class, culture and swag.
»Click here to view our spring picks video OUTHREADMAG.COM | 99
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Beautiful
ody
From the runway to the bricks By SARAH MALOY and TESSA DUFRESNE Photos by MARA GRUBER
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Boxcar Burlesque “I have to wear something that is comfortable and free, and I feel like that’s what people feel like when they dance and perform,”
BELLA BARONE
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ight women saunter across the room, clad in matching outfits. They wear black underwear, fishnets or thigh-highs with their black bras peeking out from beneath tuxedostyle vests or military-inspired jackets. A few wear top hats while another wears a black bowler hat. As they move across the stage, dancing to Gloria Jones’ 1960s hit “Tainted Love,” they first toss their hats aside. Then the jackets come off, and soon they are ending the number in matching red heart-shaped pasties. The performers are just barely keeping covered, but are “more classy than strippers” — a motto that the girls frequently repeat. These are the ladies of Boxcar Burlesque, Athens’ sole burlesque dance troupe. Some of them have voluptuous curves, and some are thin and bony. But, no matter their body type, each woman is beautiful and confident. The idea that curvy women can go onstage or even out into the world to strut their stuff is relatively new to many people. Society in its entirety isn’t yet fully accustomed to the
idea that shape can be sexy. New York Fashion Week aimed to change this perception last year when attendees had the opportunity to see the world’s first plussize-only runway show. OneStopPlus.com, a company that sells clothing for women sizes 12 to 44, hosted the event, which featured top fullfigured models such as Toccara Jones, formerly a contestant on America’s Next Top Model. Across the Atlantic, Jean-Paul Gaultier walked numerous plus-size models down his Spring 2011 ready-to-wear runway at Paris Fashion Week. Other top designers, such as Marc Jacobs, have announced their plus-size clothing line adoptions. “What counts is personality, there is not just the one form of stereotyped beauty. This collection’s pleats can be worn by any size and adapt to different body shapes,” Gaultier told New York magazine’s fashion blog The Cut. In Boxcar Burlesque, the women are not dancing and dressing in their costumes for the audience — they’re doing it to make themselves feel good. “You know when you’re dancing and OUTHREADMAG.COM | 103
you have excess clothing on, it’s just not as fun,” explained Bella Barone, a senior studying English and French. “No way can I dance and feel good in all this.” She gestured to her heavy, orange, fur-lined winter coat. “I have to wear something that is comfortable and free, and I feel like that’s what people feel like when they dance and perform,” Barone said. “I just dance because I love to dance, and these are the clothes that make it comfortable.” One would expect the women of Boxcar Bur104 | THREAD
lesque to compare their bodies to those of the other dancers, but Coco Levine, a nine-month burlesque veteran, said that the fact that everyone is one-of-a-kind has helped her to become confident in her own body and identity. “We always talk about how we look so different, but, if you look at famous burlesque performers today, no two of them look alike,” said Levine, a junior studying architecture. “That helps us build confidence. Especially today, when it’s hard to be a young woman and put aside those images of what perfec-
tion is supposed to be.” Yet despite the overt confidence that these women exude onstage and that Levine engages in every aspect of her life, they still have insecurities hovering beneath the surface, proving they’re vulnerable — just like everyone else. Dolly Derringer, director of Boxcar Burlesque and a local Athens resident, was concerned about her exposure in her newest costume, an arrangement of black beads, sequins and white taffeta, which she designed
for herself. During the dress rehearsal before Boxcar’s Valentine Varietease show, Derringer continually ran out of the Kantner Hall rehearsal space into the empty hallway or hid behind curtains to adjust her costume and compose herself. Even the most confident women, able to show their almost-nude bodies to large crowds, struggle to remain poised. “I feel like this is a challenge for a girl because I’m afraid to go onstage and to take off pieces of clothing in front of lots of people,” said Barone, who is blonde, curvy and just over 5-feet 10-inches tall. “I’m afraid to do that in front of boys that I know because I don’t want them to see what I look like and then not like me anymore.” Before performing with Boxcar, the closest she had come to onstage nudity was when she wore a short skirt and corset last October in the Rocky Horror Picture Show. “I’m very hesitant to take off my bra and have pasties, but I have a strange sense of intrigue with it. I feel like it would be interesting to be liberated and just say, ‘Here is my body. Here is what everyone is thinking about every minute of the day. So why can’t I just take off my clothes and put it out there?” she said. She frequently refers to herself as narcissistic and having a need to be desired “That’s what everyone wants,” she said. “Even though there are some girls who are smaller than me and conventional society tells me I need to be smaller and have little features, all the girls in Boxcar, no matter if they have cellulite or are bigger or if they have tiny boobs, everyone just walks around in their underwear and dances and enjoys their own dance and their own body,” Barone said. Although she is not stick-thin, she is confident in her body, and she performs to empower herself, not to satisfy anyone else.
Editor’s Note: Thread refers to the Boxcar Burlesque performers by their stage names in this article per request.
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Men and Body Image
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lthough most men don’t struggle as much in deciding what to wear, body image affects them, too — particularly athletes. Tony Guglielmi, a junior studying interactive multimedia and a member of the wrestling club, explained that wrestling is and has always been a huge part of his life. He characterizes the typical wrestler as conceited and arrogant but, in the same breath, defends this self-acclamation by reasoning that wrestlers are trained to fight and need to have self-discipline to succeed. Because of that, he constantly works to stay fit and chides himself if he feels out of shape. “I hate walking up Jeff Hill and feeling out
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of breath,” Guglielmi said. On a personal level, he cares about his health because he wants to be a person that others would be proud to be around. When Guglielmi is with a girl, he hopes that she will want to introduce him to her friends and show him off. Though Guglielmi’s body fitness is essential to him, he said he is not one to call himself fat or point out an area on his body that needs to be more toned. Guglielmi is happy with who he is and what he was given. This feeling carries over to the way he views others. Guglielmi focuses on the traits that people bring to the table rather than their image. “It’s what’s inside that counts,” he said.
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Activist Groups
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ody image is a hot topic among friends, the media, the fashion industry and health and wellness industries, to name a few. Currently, activist groups are beginning to unite around the issue of body awareness and acceptance. One such group is People Acting for Gender Equality (PAGE), a student organization at Ohio University. The group’s mission statement explains that they aim to promote gender equality through raising awareness about issues that affect the collegiate atmosphere such as sexual assault, positive body image and the promotion of being socially aware and responsible. Tiffani Smith, co-president of PAGE, believes that many people do not see body issues as an epidemic on college campuses because it is not discussed or is easily hidden. Their organization crusades against that idea. One way they attempt to start conversation is through publicity campaigns on campus. Last year, PAGE created different signs with collage-like cutouts of body parts and models paired with inspirational messages such as, “You don’t have to look like this to be beautiful.” The group said that during the effort, they heard the topic being discussed while walking on campus and sitting in classes. There was also an increase in attendance at the organization’s dialogue-based weekly meetings. Their hope to increase conversation prevailed. PAGE puts on one of the fashion shows during Moms Weekend as their main effort to promote body confidence. This May will be the show’s fourth year. Smith said the event’s message is to endorse defying stereotypes. They do this by encouraging all ages, sexes, shapes and sizes to model the clothing that makes them feel best. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 109
tease backstage
Athens-own Boxcar Burlesque group is reinventing the definition of femininity. They proudly display their flesh and take control on their own image. This isn't nudity â&#x20AC;&#x201D; they still leave some room for the imagination. Photos by MARA GRUBER and DEANNA SAKAL Photos edited by ANNIE SCHELTENS
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behind the scenes of boxcar burlesque
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in good fashion
perfectfit A sisterhood sends formal dresses to Athens’ closets By CATHERINE CALDWELL Photos by NATALIE TAYLOR
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manda Cotleur spent $35 on her dress for her junior prom. She found it the Saturday before the dance. At more than $200 off the original price, the full-length white dress with ruching and a large silver brooch was picture perfect. That was until the Cotleur, an Ohio University sophomore, started taking the actual prom photographs. “On the day of prom, I was taking pictures and there was a thread and my mom went to pull it and the whole thing unraveled,” she recalled. “We were in the bathroom sewing the dress while everyone was taking pictures.” Luckily for Cotleur, who is the Women’s Panhellenic Association vice president of community service, her mother’s sewing skills made the dress as good as new. Prom itself is some kind of cultural milestone, Cotleur explained, it’s in the same right-of-passage as getting your driver’s license or turning 18. In Athens County though, which is the poorest county in the state, princess-like prom nights are not always a reality for high
school juniors and seniors. “We all know that the situation in Athens is that there are a lot of girls who can’t afford things, nevertheless trying to figure out where they are going to get the money to pay for prom, dresses and hair,” she explained. After a community member contacted OU’s Campus Involvement Center expressing the need for a way to provide girls in need with dresses for formal events, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Dresses was born. Every dress has a story, Cotleur stressed, and during the weekend of April 15-17, girls will be invited to root through donated formal wear at the Market on State, 1002 E. State St., shops to find their dream dress. A storefront has been donated to hold the event, and the girls will be able to choose from a vast variety of evening wear and continue the legacy of the gowns, she said. “There’s kind of this thing that came up, ‘the sisterhood.' You have your story with your dress and now you’re giving it to another girl so she can have her story,” Cotleur said. “The idea of the sisterhood is that you don’t know this girl, but you have this bond because you have this great OUTHREADMAG.COM | 127
“The idea of the sisterhood is that you don’t know this girl, but you have this bond because you have this great experience with your dress, too.”
AMANDA COTLEUR
experience with your dress, too.” When Char Kopchick, assistant dean of students with the Campus Involvement Center, was approached about the idea of recycling dresses she fully embraced it. “We all have a closet full of things that are just hanging there and just dying to be worn again,” Kopchick said. “We know that we probably won’t use them, but there are other people who would love to give the dress a second life and add to the memories.” Girls in the area are to be invited to the event by school counselors. High school juniors and seniors are given first priority, but, with a goal of stocking more than 300 dresses, chances are younger girls will get their pick as well. Invitees will be provided with personal shoppers to help them find the perfect fit, she said. For those unable to donate a dress, Kopchick suggests making a donation to the event to ensure that dresses of all sizes will be available. Each sorority in WPA is required 128 | THREAD
to donate at least 30 dresses to the drive, a goal that will be easily met with the amount of members, especially ones like sophomore Emily Zito. Combining her formal wear with that of her sisters and cousins, Zito gave 12 dresses to the drive, she said. “Personally, I grew up — most of us grew up — watching Disney movies,” Zito said. “It was Cinderella. It was Snow White with the big poofy dresses and knights in shining armor. The closest things we have are our proms and homecomings. It’s the dress and the shoes. The date is just kind of there.” Zito’s dresses are well-traveled already but still have many places left to go, she said. “When it comes to the homecoming dresses, and with the dresses we’ve (my family) had, multiple people have worn each dress,” Zito said. “The dresses have already had their travel period, but we are happy to let them travel more so everyone would have an opportunity to wear them.”
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kindlyknits By RACHEL SWALIN Photos by AUDREY KELLY
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ands work methodically in a circular motion, wrapping yarn around the pegs of a medium-sized loom. Over and over they wind the thread, pushing it over the pegs when it’s time to add more layers. It’s a difficult process at first, but eventually they begin to control the yarn, molding it into their own original creation. These motions are repeated until the entire work is displaced from the loom and a single thread remains. With the pull
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of this thread, the yarns merge together, forming a multi-colored knit hat full of life; a hat that will ultimately become the sacred possession of a child who has never owned one in his or her life. This is Hats for Heads, a service project started within Ohio University’s chapter of Alpha Phi Omega, the National Coed Community Service Fraternity. Led by Service Vice President Gaby Swisher, the project brings 10 students together once a week to hand-knit a batch of playful beanies to donate to Athens school children who lack their own headgear. “I’ve kind of gotten the chance to see what true Athens is like,” Swisher, a senior social work major, said. “I think a lot of OU students don’t understand the extent of the poverty here.” Swisher started the project after looking for a way to give back to the Athens community. With her major, she’s been able to get an inside look at how deeply poverty affects the region, especially for children. The beanie hats, with their range of bright colors, make for the ultimate kidfriendly accessory. The knitters use a rainbow of yarn, with tints of cotton candy pink, midnight blue and sunshine yellow. Every color imaginable is in attendance. While adorable, the hats stand out more
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seams
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in good fashion
“I think everybody just assumes that everybody can afford a hat, but that’s actually not the case.”
– GABY SWISHER
for their ability to help the children brave the harsh winter weather. Soft to the touch and as cozy as a wool sweater, they provide the warmth these children have been missing during the long winter months. While the process of making these knit hats can be tedious and difficult at first, Swisher assures it’s a simple process. So easy, in fact, that anyone could do it. First-time volunteers usually stick with the simple pattern of choosing two complementary yarn colors. Once knitters get into the groove, however, they begin to add their own flourish to the hats and experiment with more complicated designs. Marissa Gebhardt, a sophomore studying
sports management, decided to get involved with Hats for Heads because she was intrigued by the prospect of plunging into a new service project within the fraternity. Though she started off with no clue of how to knit the hats, Gebhardt has evolved into the expert beanie weaver. She now searches for new patterns online and works to branch out of the traditional two-thread model. The more experienced volunteers within the group can finish a hat in about 45 minutes. For those just starting out though, it can take anywhere from two to three hours to finish just one. For Gebhardt, the hats stand out because of the dedication fraternity members put into
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“I really like picking out the thread for myself because it gives me a little bit of artistic license.” GABY SWISHER
making their own one-of-a-kind creation. “People actually put thought and effort into making a hat rather than just going and buying it,” Gebhardt said. “Even though it’s easier to buy it, the satisfaction of making it is always a plus.” Each member’s ability to go outside the box when it comes to creating the hats is quite impressive. To escape the same pattern, Gebhardt has made what she calls patchwork hats which feature little holes within the knitting that stretch out slightly when worn. It has all the features of a store-bought knit and it’s hard to believe the hats are actually handmade. Sometimes, Swisher will add her own personal touches by including stripes, or she’ll try mixing multiple colors. Once when making a hat, she ran out of red thread and began a new layer with green at the top. It came out resembling a snug strawberry beanie.
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“I really like picking out the thread for myself because it gives me a little bit of artistic license,” Swisher said. Swisher first learned to make the knit hats last June while working as a camp counselor. Taught by one of her cocounselors, Swisher began making a surplus of hats at camp, accumulating a box she planned to donate to Athens children when she returned to school in the fall of 2010. Swisher felt getting the fraternity involved in the knitting would have more of an impact for the Athens community. It certainly has worked out splendidly so far, with more than 90 hats donated to boys and girls of the Plains and Chauncey Elementary Schools. Even though Swisher will graduate soon, she still has big plans for the project. In the spring, she hopes to branch out and donate the hats to cancer ward patients at O’Bleness Memorial Hospital who face the uncomfortable experience of losing their hair while undergoing treatment. Ultimately, this project proves that a hat is more than a simple possession. For these people, a hat means hope; it means security. A hat is a bright shining star for the future, Swisher said, and giving back to the community in that way is what means the most to her. “I think everybody just assumes that everybody can afford a hat, but that’s actually not the case,” Swisher said. “It’s important to realize how lucky we are and with that take it and help somebody else out.”
in good fashion
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globalgala By BROOKE BUNCE Photos by MYLAN CANNON
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onder Woman, Rosie the Riveter and Xena — all are warrior princesses and all are ultimate symbols of girl power. Although the same thing may not be said of female scientists, doctors or mathematicians, one message still remains — they are all symbols of female empowerment. Empowerment will be displayed at this year’s third annual International Women’s Day Festival (IWDF), put on by Ohio University’s Women’s Center. The March 11 event aims at celebrating the past, present and future accomplishments of women worldwide. “It’s a chance for (students) to come and see what women all over the world are accomplishing and doing, and how they’re moving forward into the future,” said Kara Kauffman, a graduate assistant in International Student-Faculty Services as well as an intern for the Women’s Center. The theme of this year’s festival, “Pathway to Decent Work for Women,” is about equal access to education, training and science and technology. The event will include performances and presentations that showcase women, namely international women, and those involved in science or technology. Susanne Dietzl, director of the Women’s Center, explained the importance of this year’s theme adding that the purpose is to improve women’s participation in science and technology. “We know that women are still lagging behind in science and technology, but we also
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know that the key to the future is for women to be involved in those disciplines,” Dietzl said. In addition, IWDF will feature a fashion show full of international flair. With the help of FACES Modeling Club, the runway will be bursting with style and attitude from almost every corner of the globe. “We want to represent the world,” Kauffman said. President of FACES, Ashanti Murdoch, said that the club will be working with first-time models. “(IWDF is) giving them that little confidence booster that everyone kind of needs,” Murdoch said. As the models strut down the stage at Baker University Center Theater, they’ll have a chance to highlight their personal style with a pinch of global panache. The models are encouraged to show their ethnicity through their outfits, while emphasizing their personal style at the same time. Kauffman hopes to get models of almost every nationality on the runway for the festival. She already plans on having one student in full traditional Muslim dress, and anticipates more styles rarely seen in Athens. “If they want to just wear something fun and fresh and new and something that they would wear in their home country, then that’s what we’ll showcase them wearing.” Kauffman said. “(But) we’re not really stressing too much traditional dress.” Both undergraduate and graduate students will have a chance to show their OUTHREADMAG.COM | 137
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“We want to represent the world.” KARA KAUFFMAN
talents at the IWDF. The Women’s Center strongly encourages anyone who wants to perform to send in a proposal. The festival will include poetry, impersonations, readings, songs, dances, speeches, artwork and presentations on women’s culture, politics and history. Additionally, the IWDF is going to feature booths of local vendors, such as Jewelry For Choice, Athens Women’s Crafters Guild and Renewables. “Even though we (as women) might not be
as far along as we want to be, we are moving closer and closer. We keep moving forward rather than backward,” Kauffman said. The IWDF is a chance for women of all ages to gather and appreciate the many talents of women across the world through performance, education and fashion. “I think what it will do for the campus is illustrate … that we have beautiful women on campus and we want to highlight their beauty and creativity and activism and their contributions to the world,” Dietzl said. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 139
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hotshoulder
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By BRIDGET MALLON and CYNTHIA ROBINSON Photos by LEVI FINLEY
he 1980s were a time for women who pumped up the volume in their wardrobes and looks, thrusting themselves into the workforce with a vengeance. Enter: big shoulders, big hair and big, lavish lifestyles. Although the extreme hairstyles and luxury have slightly deflated, the structured shoulder has slowly begun to creep its way back into our current sartorial culture. At the Golden Globe Awards, Anne Hathaway’s look indicated that a modern adaption of the ’80s trend is back with shoulder pads jutting from her sequin-covered, longsleeved, backless Armani Privé gown. French designer Balmain has also recreated the strong, military-inspired jackets, which have made their way into the closets of fashion icons like Rihanna and Beyoncé.
The contemporary use of shoulder pads, however, is quite different in relation to its working girl past. Today’s styles are much more structured, sculpted and perhaps more flattering than what was seen in previous decades.
THE ORIGINS Although shoulder pads are best remembered for their frequent inclusion in 1980s fashions, they made their first appearance much earlier. In the 1930s, Italian designer Elsa Schiaparelli utilized padded shoulders in her line of evening jackets for women, said Gertrud Lehnert in her book, A History of Fashion in the 20th Century. The look took off in the early 1940s when shoulder pads were seen on many high-profile women, including actress Joan Crawford. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 141
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This often-masculine appearance of suits during the time helped the women, who performed traditionally male-dominated jobs during World War I, declare their independence and strength. The trend didn’t last long, though, said Francois Baudot in his book, Fashion: The Twentieth Century. In 1947, Christian Dior’s feminine “new look” featured full skirts, and defined waistlines replaced the boxy, shoulderaccentuating style. When women began asserting their power in the workforce again in the late 1970s and early 1980s, shoulders became the focal point once more. Professional women had wardrobes full of jackets with distinctive shoulders. Some actresses, such as Melanie Griffith’s character in Working Girl, made a
bang with wardrobes full of boxy jackets with that extra padding from the neck to the upper arm. Their towering, hair-sprayed coifs and masculinity-infused style became known as “power dressing.” They were asserting themselves in the workplace, and their wardrobes helped display their initiative to climb the corporate ladder. Designers like Giorgio Armani in his Fall/Winter 1984 collection embraced the idea of dressing for success and started creating clothes that could be adopted for men and women, Baudot said. Shoulder pads were worked into the wardrobes of America’s most powerful women and their male counterparts. While structured male jackets were used to define the shape of the actual man, they OUTHREADMAG.COM | 143
served as a way to alter the female figure for women. After helping to redefine the image of the workforce, this figure-accentuating style made the transition into everyday garments. “In the ’80s, people started putting shoulder pads in everything,” said Michelle Price, an Ohio University professor of retail merchandising and fashion product development. 144 | THREAD
Casual shirts and sweaters were adorned with extra shoulder padding, and many women had shoulder pads sewn into their clothing. Evening wear transitioned from subdued and sophisticated looks to statement-making outfits with considerable amounts of eye-catching sequins and rhinestones. Shoulder pads became the norm and most
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women embraced the look, regardless of how much it flattered their figures. “It isn’t a look everyone can pull off,” Price said. “If you’re short or petite it can be overwhelming, but for other women it can almost help balance their body type.”
RE-EMERGENCE Three decades have passed since the strong-shouldered heyday of the ’80s, but the look is beginning to creep back into contemporary fashion. “Fashion is always evolving,” Price said. “Designers draw inspiration from the past and look to reinvent things in a new, fresh way.” This fashion evolution has brought emphasis back to the shoulder. Strong shoulders are everywhere — not only in Jean Paul Gaultier’s and Armani Privé’s Fall 2010 Haute Couture shows, but
“I don’t see it getting as big and as baggy as before if designers pull back and use it appropriately,” MICHELLE RICE
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“Everything’s obviously in a cycle, and I’ve noticed a lot of things from the ’80s have come back. KRYSTLE BLUME
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also trickling down into the more accessible, mainstream world. Stores like H&M and Forever 21 are featuring leather jackets, cardigans, blazers, even T-shirts with ruffled, bunched and metallic shoulders. “I have a few cardigans which showcase the style,” said Rachel Grimm, a junior studying French and English. “But I wouldn’t go as far as sporting something resembling a power suit from 1984.” Price believes this modern adaption of the trend will not become as extreme as it was in the ’80s. “I don’t see it getting as big and as baggy as before if designers pull back and use it appropriately,” Price said. Several Madonna-inspired styles have become prevalent in today’s fashions. Leggings, lace and pearls join strong shoulders in the ’80s re-emergence. “Everything’s obviously in a cycle, and I’ve noticed a lot of things from the ’80s have come back,” said Krystle Blume, a senior studying retail merchandising. Instead of the stark, sharp shoulders that were popularized by the opulent wardrobes in the ’80s television show Dynasty, today’s pieces place more emphasis on femininity and structure. Ruching details and poufy sleeves add a different feel without being masculine or dated. The crystallized, stylized shoulders featured in Stella McCartney’s Resort 2010 line reference the fashion statement of the past while adding a girly touch. Some of the most recognized style icons of our time, including Blake Lively, Lady Gaga, Angelina Jolie and Jessica Alba, have sported red carpet looks that emphasize their shoulders.
MODERN APPLICATION Although countless designers, including American designer Nicole Miller in her Pre-Fall 2011 collection, have jumped on the shoulderemphasizing bandwagon, many young people are still hesitant to go all out, not wanting to look like a diamond-encrusted quarterback. “I really don’t like shoulder pads, they make you look like a football player,” said Megan Nicol, a freshman studying biology. “I like to think of women as dainty and even though they’re supposed to make your waist look smaller, they really don’t.” The use of strong shoulders in the modern fashion world is still transitioning into the mainstream. “It’s difficult to go from one extreme to the other,” Price said. “It takes a while for things to creep back completely.” Designers are bringing back strong shoulders not necessarily for power purposes, but for exhibiting individual and artistic style. Although popular performers and models in magazines can be seen sporting the look to its extreme, its movement into the mainstream seems to be subtle. Blume said that although she notices more structured shoulders, she sees a more poufy look. “But when people go to career fairs, I notice more people have jackets with shoulder pads in them,” she said. Shoulder-emphasizing looks seem to be popping up rapidly in post-modern style but with more of a feminine or individualistic touch. Shoulders are not exactly intimidating, but rather ruched, embellished and almost coquettish. “Back then they were more manly,” Blume said. “Now they have more of a feminine touch to them, which I think is nice.” OUTHREADMAG.COM | 149
Illustrations by ANNIE CERCONE
sweetescape By LEAH FIGHTMASTER Photo Provided and by EMILY MUELLER
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ith a shaking hand, you flip the page of your psychology book. Hopped up on caffeine and awake for what feels like days, you've been reading line after line. Your last final is in 10 minutes. All that’s running through your mind is sitting comfortably on a sandy beach somewhere, the warm sun pouring down. Your hard work will soon be highly rewarded in the form of spring break. Even though I’m a senior, this is the first one I’ll spend away from home. Going home instead of road tripping to a sunny beach, I’ve only imagined the student-covered beaches of Florida or any other spring break hotspot. 150 | THREAD
But, packing for this epic trip is different from any family vacation — it’s my last shot at spending a relaxing but crazy week with my friends before the end: graduation. Overpacking is one of my fatal flaws. Instead of just tossing on a bikini and shorts and sliding into a pair of flip flops for the duration of the adventure, I’ve made a list of five essentials any smart spring breaker would bring along for the ride.
DITCH THE JEANS, SNATCH THE SUIT The first thing on your list should be a stunning suit to accompany your tan. But all the styles, colors and prices of swimsuits can
drive any sane person crazy. This year’s hottest suit doesn’t have to be the priciest. Victoria’s Secret advertises swimsuits of all styles and prints. Bandeaustyle tops, sported recently by MTV’s The Hills star Lauren Conrad, are popping up everywhere from swimsuits to actual shirts. The ever-popular triangle-top bikini still holds its reign as queen of the swimsuits. Everyone has them, from Hayden Panettiere to Kim Kardashian. But if you want to look outside of the box, then take a look back in time. Fashion works in cycles, and the more conservative counterpart of the one-piece from the 1950s is making its overdue comeback. Designers and stars alike are embracing the higher cuts and polka dot prints, such as Taylor Swift. Even Lindsay Lohan is sporting this retro look on the August 2010 cover of German GQ Magazine. But don’t shell out serious cash if you don’t have it. Those gorgeous suits are fabulous, but be smart about your money. Target’s selection is like the poor man’s (or
woman’s) Saks Fifth Avenue. Look like a million bucks in a purple ruffled triangle-top bikini top and bottom for $14.99 each — not unlike CW’s 90210 star AnnaLynne McCord’s pink version. If you’re looking to class it up 50s-style like Audrey Hepburn, ModCloth is a Mecca for vintage swimsuits. Whether you like a ruched halter one piece in wine red or the high-rising bikini in plaid, both for $89.99, grace the beach with confidence in your vintage look. I can’t imagine anyone not finding a sexy suit at a reasonable cost. At some of the prices these stores offer, not to mention the irresistible sales, pick two and show off twice the style.
LOOK LIKE A STAR, NOT A LOBSTER Any trip to the beach should be accompanied by this substance — and I don’t mean alcohol. Being generous with the sunscreen might save your skin and trip. An average of SPF 30 should be a minimum OUTHREADMAG.COM | 151
to keep from waking up the next day with too much of a tan. But forgetting to reapply could mean the difference between burning and tanning, said Dr. Dawn Sammons, a local dermatologist and Ohio University graduate. A higher SPF means leaving room for error — few people remember to put on sunscreen as often as they should. Instead of applying every two hours, an SPF of 70 or 90 could be effective twice as long, Sammons said “Ideally, you should not even be getting a tan at all, because it’s your skin’s reaction to protect from UV rays,” Sammons said. “There’s a misconception that getting a tan is healthy, but you’re still susceptible to skin cancer later. It’s just as bad to tan than to burn.” Few people are going to avoid tanning on a trip to the coast, but be a smart sun soaker. Slather on the moisturizer and suck down the non-alcoholic fluids to stay safe. “Sun in moderation is healthy,” she added. “Just like everything else in life.” Shorts and sandals and sundresses, oh my! For a spring break success, stuff your 152 | THREAD
suitcase with more than just a suit and shorts. It’s still March, so the Relient K line “sunny with a high of 75” might not describe the weather in places like Panama. “The first two or three days weren’t bad,” said Kaitlin Cuske, a senior studying exercise physiology and a veteran Panama City Beach spring breaker. “The last two (years) were colder and cloudy. During the day wasn’t too bad, but walking around or standing outside of clubs at night I wore jeans or capris.” It’s your choice if you want to just chill out in your swimsuit and shorts during the day. But you’re going to stand out in bars and clubs at night, and not in a good way. A distinctive sweater or casual jacket paired with a floral sundress that you’ve been dying wear will set you apart among the clubbing crowd. Stylish sundresses are taking over clothing racks everywhere. Show off your sweet and sexy side with a cute but inexpensive dress from Forever 21, with prices ranging from
$12.50 to $27.80. Asymmetrical one shoulder dresses, along with floral prints and denim, cover Forever21.com dress section. Forever’s more reserved cousin, Delia’s, is also breaking out the floral and denim. With prices starting at $34.50, they’re also bringing back the long dress — soft, flowing and perfect for walking the beach at sunset. “It’s not normal OU jeans and a T-shirt,” Cuske added.
FLEX YOUR THINKING MUSCLE Spring break doesn’t mean we should just shut our brains down, but I’m not suggesting you get your spring quarter textbooks early and drag them down south to the beach. Spring break is luxury reading heaven. Maybe you want to get started reading for next quarter — I’m not judging. Dig up a classic novel — possibly a traditional love story, such as Pride and Prejudice, or maybe your idea is Snooki’s new guido-loving book A Shore Thing (again, not judging). Shuffle through Oprah’s book club or ask a friend for his or her favorite
read, then sit back in the sun and enjoy.
BE YOURSELF, LITERALLY Bringing fake IDs, like owning one in the first place, is both illegal and dangerous. What’s worse is, if you’re on spring break, you’re out of state — an Ohio driver’s license looks more suspicious to a Florida resident checking your ID, Cuske said. “A lot of people in Panama thought Ohio IDs were fake,” Cuske said. “They were really strict because everyone knew it was spring break.” Even though you might not be part of the 21-and-over crowd, plenty of bars and clubs are 18-and-over. Even if bars aren’t exactly your scene, shopping, miniature golf, water slides, pirate-themed waterparks and zoos are attractions everyone can enjoy. Spring break shouldn’t be stressful, so knowing what to pack and what to leave home frees up more time to relax. Instead of stressing, come back for Spring Quarter with a fabulous tan and legendary memories.
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1 1. BOOK
Enjoy some educational entertainment by cracking open a new book.
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2. SUNGLASSES
UV rays damage eyes, too. Keep the sun out of your eyes with some stylish shades.
3. SUNSCREEN
Prevent the pain from a sunburn by lathering on the sunscreen. If you do get burned, dab on the aloe for some cool relief.
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5 4. SWIMSUIT
Pretty self-explanatory, but don your cutest suit to look and feel like a celebrity.
5. FLIP FLOPS
Protect your feet with some stylish sandals. Toss on some flip flops for the inevitable flip-flop tan.
6. SUNDRESS
Show off your sunkissed skin at night with a cute sundress to look both sweet and sexy. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 155
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fake
prescriptionglasses
rant By GRACE AUSTIN
S
ince I can remember, I have been nearly blind. In my sixth grade math class, I would embarrassingly reach down into my L.L. Bean monogrammed backpack and pull out a pair of whoppers — dark, thick-framed glasses — so I could see the chalkboard. When the faux glasses trend took off a few years ago, courtesy of rappers and fashion victims alike, I was surprised. I could not figure out
why someone would want to look like a geeky bookworm. And as most trends go, I thought this too would pass away into fashion oblivion. Instead, this trend has remained popular, despite its stupidity. If you love accessories, try a hat or a chic necklace, not faux glasses. Leave the spectacles to the vision-impaired. Please, for those who partake in this ridiculous trend, retire your fake glasses before you actually need them.
rave By SANDIE YOUNG
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eading designers like Gucci, Prada and D&G compete to create fashion-forward glasses. Those who say that glasses aren’t fashionable probably aren’t looking in the right places. A certain stereotype is attached to those who wear glasses — overachiever, snobish and nerdy. Yet, if done right, these looks can work in your favor. Glasses give an outfit a sense of authority, even if they aren’t for seeing purposes. When thinking of the typical glasses-wearer, some immediately envision an intellectual spending hours studying at Alden
Illustration by KIERSTEN BONIFANT
Library. However, more recently, wearing fake prescription glasses has evolved into a trend. Take it from Justin Timberlake, whose fashionable black-rimmed glasses at a recent movie premiere turned a few heads. Johnny Depp, Alicia Keys and Drake also wear their glasses fashionably. Slipping on a pair of glasses is the reasonable equivalent to wearing your graduation cap in public. It is a bold, worthwhile trend, and it is no one’s business to know that your eyes are, in fact, perfectly capable of seeing without these eye-catching accessories. OUTHREADMAG.COM | 157
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