Spring 2009
United Planet A Little Paris in Boston Recessionista The New Fashionable First Family Boston’s House of Blues Project Mozart
ART
Shepard Fairey
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BEAUTY
Achieving the Look
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COMMUNITY
United Planet Form to Fashion
TRENDS
A Little Paris in Boston 11 12 Gossip Girl Style 14 Recessionista
ON THE COVER
Season of the Doll
POLITICS
The New Fashionable First Family
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CULTURE
Rock Your Body Euro Fashion
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BOSTON FASHION Project Mozart HOT SPOT
Riding the T
ENTERTAINMENT Three’s a Charm House of Blues
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1844 Commonwealth Avenue Newton, MA 02466 www.Lasell.edu POLISHED Magazine is produced with graphic design support by the Graphic Design League at Lasell College. Visit us at www.GraphicDesignLeague.com Polished is printed by Wing Press, Beau@wingpress.com
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On the Cover:
Photography: Stephen Cicco Model: Sadie Rebello Stylists: Erica Valente and Christian DiPietro Hair and Makeup: Jaime Berkman of Eye4Beauty Photographic Assistants: Rizwan Samma & Neil Bacon Location: Lasell College, Hamel House
Publisher:
Associate Editor:
Lasell College
Erica Valente
Editor-in-Chief:
Faculty Editor:
Mary Ruppert-Stroescu
Becky Kennedy
Founder:
Editors:
Richard Bath
Kristen Augenfeld Fallon Coster
Faculty Advisor: Stephen C. Fischer
Managing Editor Creative Director:
COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANT: Michelle Gaseau
Christian DiPietro
Fashion Editors:
Art Director:
Christian DiPietro Erica Valente
Kayla McKenna
Spring is here and I think it is safe to say we are all pleased. In the months ahead we will find ourselves calling in “sick” from work on those extra-sunny Wednesdays. Until then, we are in for New England weather that can only be described as transitional—making even the most stylish of individuals question whether to wear a fur coat or a light jacket. Find inspiration in our gorgeous editorial of transitional pieces from the boutique Zia. Want the looks on a budget? Flip to the thought-provoking Recessionista article and always remember: it doesn’t have to cost a million to make you look like a million. Feeling artistic? Dive into the exposé on Shepard Fairey. Enjoy, and let yourself get POLISHED.
Writers: Julie Bortnick Elisa Bronstein Erin Copeland Fallon Coster Alyssa Fetera Lauren LaDeau Chelsea Mason Nerissa Mendes Kaleigh O’Brien Bryana Prout Karrissa Ranken Holly Stephens Shannon Thomas
Contributing Artists: Neil Bacon Nordian Davis Kim Eisenberg Allison Geoffroy Loren Grimes Matt Haversat Ted Leist Amy Lentini Breanna Liggan Rizwan Samma
marketing: Alexis Feinberg
Christian DiPietro Creative Director
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lisa E y
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With a recent arrest on graffiti charges in Boston,
an ongoing lawsuit with the Associated Press, and the opening of his first solo exhibit, Shepard Fairey: Supply and Demand, at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, it’s safe to say the only thing Shepard Fairey is not guilty of is lethargy. Fairey’s name has been added to the prestigious list of contemporary artists who have made it into one of the four displays the ICA of Boston promotes. The controversial Frank Shepard Fairey, underground-anything-enthusiast, was born in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1970. Fairey hasn’t always been known for such straightforward artwork. His notoriety began with his love for wheatpasting his posters to public property, sticker tagging, and stenciling for the love of art.
Fairey seems to live up to his artist’s nature; he creates works and will share them with people “by any means necessary,” in addition to creating a constant buzz. Hearing Fairey speak is both riveting and real, and allows the listener to gain a better perspective on the distinctive man behind the art, despite the overwhelming amount of negative publicity recently associated with him. Fairey’s famous HOPE poster used during Obama’s 2008 campaign was recently inducted into the Smithsonian and not only has made Shepard Fairey a household name but also has strengthened the already well-established Obama brand.
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Images courtesy of Shepard Fairey
Fairey had avoided endorsement of mainstream politicians but was so impressed by Obama that he was inspired to “take a simple image and encourage people to do more research into Obama’s views and ideas,” as he states in his interview with Charlie Rose. Although he may now be best known for the campaign artwork, he states he never intended for it to become so widely accepted; nonetheless, he did create the piece with the hope of reaching beyond his regular audiences. His current exhibit at the ICA, which runs from February 6 through August 16, 2009, has aroused interest in his controversial, moving pieces from the past two decades. Fairey’s art consists of graphically altered images, usually in a bold black with subtle images spattered in the background, which evoke a feeling of mystery, curiosity, and defiance. These already iconic pieces are inspiring both socially and artistically; Fairey has charged these familiar images with his sentiments and ideals. The exhibit, a strong representation of Fairey’s belief in the provocative, looks to be an indication of where things are heading for him; the recognition will give him the clout to work in a positive light and still make headlines doing so. If you haven’t checked out Shepard Fairey: Supply and Demand, be sure to do so soon.
art5
Forget your heavy eye shadows and nude lip color,
ladies; Spring 2009 is all about subtle smoky eyes, a flawless complexion, and a killer pair of faux eyelashes. According to fashion experts from instyle.com and new trends sprouting from New York Fashion Week, future beauty trends of Spring 2009 include a more natural look with just the right touch of fantasy.
Naturally Smoky Eye It’s time to tone down heavy, dark shadows and create a more naturally inspired smoky eye. Prime lids with moisturizer or eye cream, and cover dark problem spots with a rich peach-colored concealer. Follow with a coat of liquid foundation over eyelids, as a primer and base for shadow. This step is key for a longlasting look without any midday smudges. Line top lids with a thick brown, black, or grey liner. Continue by dabbing a foam brush applicator into a shadow that’s the same color as the liner. Smudge the color over and slightly above the liner, rimming bottom lids as well. Next, apply base shadow color to the entire lid, using a light earthy hue such as beige, light brown, crème, or cara-
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mel. To achieve the signature smoky look, dip an eye shadow brush into a slightly darker colored shadow, such as chocolate brown, ash, or bronze, and apply color to the deep crease for your top lid. Fan out color to the right side of your lid, making a sideways “V” and meeting the color to the right of your lash lines. If the look seems too harsh, simply apply a second coat of your base shadow over your entire lid. Finish with several coats of volumizing mascara on both top and bottom lashes.
Photography by Holly Stephens
Next Try..
Hydrofirming Eye Cream, $8.99, www.avon.com
L’Oreal Wear Infinite Eye Shadow Duo Mocha Buff, $5.99 www.cvs.com Buxom Lash, $18, www.sephora.com
Metallic Eyes
Low-Key Natural Brows
Try lining eyes with metallic hues to create a bright and bold statement. To achieve this, prime lids with firming eye cream, and prep with a dab of creamy concealer to any dark spots. Trace your top lash line and, if necessary, go back with a cotton swab to smudge the color out. For a bolder nighttime look, lengthen the lash line by extending the liner ¼ inch out from the end of your lids. Repeat the smudging process for your outer lids, keeping away from the inner corner of your eye. As you do this, your eyes will appear bigger and brighter. Top this look off with two coats of curling mascara on top lashes only. This look can also be achieved by applying gel liner and rich eye shadows in place of Try: Cargo Eye Shadow the traditional eye pencil. in Persia $10.50
No longer are dark, filled-in, bold brows appearing on the runway; you’ll see a more subtle and natural version. The key is to keep brows in their natural shape, by trimming the strays. Try to stay away from dark brow liners; stick to brow shadows and creams, if necessary. Use a brown brush to heighten Try: Damone Roberts Brow Shadow your arch, and top it off with a Latte $20 www.damoneroberts.com clear brow gel Valerie Beverly Hills Brow Tamer $25 to keep strays www.valeriebeverlyhills.com in place.
www.planetbeauty.com
Faux Eyelashes
Jordana Eyeliner Turquoise $.99
Although volumizing and thickening mascaras may provide additional length to lashes, Spring 2009 is all about over-the-top lash extensions. Experts suggest applying a set to top lashes, using tweezers to guide them as close to your natural lash line as possible. Let dry for three minutes, and apply either clear or curling mascara to bind false and real lashes together. To create more definition, try applying individual false lashes instead. Keep individual false lashes heavier towards the outside of your eyes, balancing the look.
Glossy Bold Nail Polish
Try: False Eyelashes Slant Black $20 www.shuemura.com
Although Spring 2009 calls for a more natural and earthy look for the face, makeup artists are pairing up flawless complexions with glossy and bold nail colors, to help achieve contrast and add life to the runway. For long-lasting nail color, prep your nails with a clear base coat. Add three coats of your bright color of choice, and add an additional top coat to seal it off.
Try: Maybelline Express Finish Nail Polish Go Go Green $2.30 www.cvs.com So there you have it, ladies – Spring 2009 runway makeup made easy and affordable! For more information and tips regarding the latest makeup trends, refer to www.instyle.com.
Bronzed Face Flawless bronzed complexion is back – this time, without the orange-skin horror stories! Begin by washing and exfoliating your skin, making sure to remove any dead skin cells. For that bronzed goddess complexion, use a foamy long-wear faux tanner mixed with a moisturizer, either lightly over your face or over your whole body. After letting the tanner absorb and then showering, prep your face with moisturizer and concealer for problem spots. Match your skin Try: Mac Sun Dressing $28 tone to a light www.maccosmetics.com powder or liquid Stila Convertible Color $25 foundation. For paler complexions, www.sephora.com stick to pink-toned foundations; use yellow-toned foundations for darker complexions. Apply a light and shimmery bronzer to the apples of your cheeks, your forehead, and your jaw line. Bring your golden look together with a cream blush to create a fabulously sun-kissed look.
Bright Satin Lips What would spring be without any color? Bright hues of berry, fuchsia, and rose are appearing on the Spring 2009 runway. Chanel and Christian Dior are pairing their collections with a matte berry stain to the lips. To create this look, experts suggest priming the lips with a rich lip balm and liquid foundation. Apply lipstick over the foundation, and use powder to Try: Ink Lip Stain in Berry $17 eliminate any additional shine. You can www.urbandecay.com also achieve this look by purchasing a lip stain that absorbs deeply into your lips, creating a long-lasting satin look.
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AMBODIA CHILE COSTA RICA ECUADOR GHANA GUATE
T
by Erin Copeland
raveling to another country can be one of the most breathtaking experiences in someone’s life. Visiting and witnessing a new culture firsthand is an exciting event. Even more powerful than visiting a new country for leisure, is volunteering in another country to give aid to its people. Some third world countries need this help because their people are malnourished, are suffering from disease, or can’t afford education. Through active engagement, volunteers are absorbed into the communities of their travel destinations, learning more about other ways of life than they would have as tourists. United Planet, a nonprofit organization with its headquarters in Boston, was created to give people a chance to volunteer and to gain knowledge and experience through travel to another country. This organization is designed to help volunteers experience a new culture, and it works to help the people of the destination countries receive support.
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United Planet is a charity that was founded seven years ago, with the mission of promoting cross-cultural relations. From there, it has became an organization that sends about four hundred volunteers each year to fifteen different countries around the world to give aid to people in need. To gain the full cultural experience, volunteers live with hosts in the country they visit. Katherine Osgood, Director of International Programs, says, “The best experience is living with the host family, because it immerses them in the country they’re in.” Along with sharing living space with native families, volunteers spend their time in orphanages, schools, and hospitals. The volunteers can also promote environmental conservation in their chosen country, build houses, teach English, and assist with HIV/AIDS awareness. Volunteers can choose a short-term program, which is between one and twelve weeks, or they can participate in a long-term program, from six months in length to one year. Often, the volunteers who
zia tibel turkey CAMBODIA CHILE COSTA RICA ECUA
EMALA INDIA JAPAN JOrDan NEPAL PEru romania tan decide to become part of the long-term program have already participated in the short-term program and want to extend their stay in a foreign country. Anyone between the ages of eighteen and thirty can volunteer through United Planet, and teenagers between the ages of sixteen and eighteen who want to volunteer without a parent’s or guardian’s permission can travel to a few countries: Romania, Peru, Costa Rica, and Ecuador. Anyone younger than sixteen must go with a parent or guardian to volunteer. A short-term volunteer can choose to work in Cambodia, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Ghana, Guatemala, India, Japan, Jordan, Nepal, Peru, Romania, Tanzania, Tibet, and Turkey. Osgood states, “The short-term program is a great way to get a taste of what volunteering and traveling are like.” The shortterm program fee starts at $1,295 and includes training and preparation, food and lodging, airport transportation, emergency medical insurance, and ongoing supervision by United Planet staff. Aside from duration, the programs differ in that another organization is involved in the long-term program. United Planet is a member of the International Cultural Youth Exchange (ICYE), an organization that takes United Planet’s volunteers from the United States and Canada and sends them to their desired country. The ICYE also has its own rules and regulations regarding age and volunteerism schedule. Those who elect to participate in the long-term
program can choose from over thirty countries. The August 2009 and January 2010 prices are $5,965 for six months abroad and $8,965 for a year. This includes everything covered by the short-term fee, plus language training and in-country orientation. Of course, traveling to an foreign country brings up questions of safety. Because of this, United Planet has constant supervision and staff monitoring for safety in each country. Also, the program can be suspended in certain countries if the staff deems it necessary for volunteer safety. United Planet suspended the Tibet program for about four weeks at the beginning of last year, due to the protest at the time of the Olympic Games. Therefore, no matter what country the volunteer is staying in, he or she is always protected. United Planet is an international organization, but it also has domestic programs right here in Boston. One of these is the Cultural Awareness Program (CAP), which sets up opportunities for people to go into local community centers or schools and put on a presentation about their own culture or about the culture of a country they’ve visited. Volunteers who go abroad for United Planet will often come back and share their experiences with a CAP. The other program is called the Ambassador Club and is set up at schools and universities in Boston and on the West Coast. It is a club for people who want to promote cultural awareness within their school.
Photos Courtesy of United Planet
United Planet is a great organization to become involved in, whether in the U.S. or abroad. It offers a way to reach out and help those in other countries, while learning more about the world and about unfamiliar cultures. Whether participating in the short-term or the long-term program, volunteers can experience the feeling of helping to stabilize someone else’s life. United Planet deserves notice for its service abroad and for the rewarding volunteer experience it offers.
Oscar award-winning actress Hilary Swank volunteering abroad at an orphanage during her quest to India
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ADOR GHANA GUATEMALA INDIA JAPAN JOrDan nepal
If you’ve ever wanted to judge or critique those fabulous original fashion designs featured on shows such as Project Runway, your chance is coming to Natick Collection. Grab your stilettos and pretend you’re Heidi: choose which local college designer is either “in” or “out.”
Mount Ida will kick off the competition from April 3 to April 23, and Lasell College will be featured from May 3 until May 23. From June 7 to June 28, The School of Fashion Design will show, and Framingham State will present their designers’ creations from September 10 to October 1.
Beginning April 3, the exclusive Natick Collection “Showing work at the Natick collection aligns will not only host fabulous labels, but also show Lasell and the designers with prestige, quality, and the original designs of local fashion students. luxury,” says Mary Ruppert-Stroescu, Lasell ColThis spring the Natick Collection is sponsor- lege’s Fashion Department Chair. ing Form to Fashion, an exhibition which will include a series of garment displays showcasing the talents of four local schools: Mount Ida, The School of Fashion Design, Framingham State, and Lasell College. “We are thrilled about the debut of Form to Fashion,” says Nicole Guglielmucci, Marketing Manager of the Natick Collection. “Who knows - we may discover someone who ends up in the Fashion Week tents in a few years!” Each school will install a three-week display of both student and alumni designs within the Neiman Marcus court; shoppers will be encouraged to vote for their favorite garment.
by shannon thomas
The Form to Fashion competition will indirectly pit not only design schools against one another, but also students within the same college. Designers involved in this competition are able to display their best work with the chance to connect with future clients – and get their feedback. “The designers have the opportunity to provide business cards as well, so the potential for being contacted by interested parties is high,” says Ruppert-Stroescu. For Lasell College and Mount Ida, Form to Fashion will be a second chance this year to showcase student designs. A similar competition at the Boston Symphony earlier this year, Project Mozart, also featured the colleges’ student designs. “This project differs from Project Mozart in a couple of ways. The designs presented at Natick will have already been created, while for Project Mozart, the designs were created specifically for the competition,” says Ruppert-Stroescu. “Showing several pieces at the Natick Collection competition that were completed independently really gives the viewer a sense of the designers’ aesthetic and capacities in a holistic way.” Votes will be tallied in early October to determine one winner from each school; a “fashion week” inspired celebration will spotlight the designers and their winning garments.
e l t t i L A P rsist o n o B in en
ank R a s s
arri
by K
N
ow it’s not every week you would find me at a museum on a Saturday morning. I decided to head to the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) on a crisp, fall day, looking for something different to do – outside the box. The MFA is located on 465 Huntington Ave. in Boston. You can easily take the Green Line right by our campus to the MFA stop. My friend and I went to see the René Lalique Jewelry showcase. Who is René Lalique? René Jules Lalique was a French artist, master designer of glass, and jeweler in the Art Nouveau period of the early twentieth century.
Photos Courtesy of Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts
His display in the museum was overwhelmingly elegant. One Lasell College professor got to experience Lalique’s work firsthand in Paris: In 2006, Fashion Department Chair Mary Ruppert-Stroescu traveled to France, where she viewed René Lalique’s exquisite work in the Luxembourg Palace. “The showcase in Paris was larger. It’s really significant that the museum in Boston chose to acknowledge the time period of the Art Nouveau,” Ruppert-Stroescu says.
One hundred years ago, fashionistas believed eyeglasses were not very flattering. I saw original glass opticals that women would hold in their hands when they needed to read something. Now fashion-conscious ladies live for sexy glasses and buy them regardless of the need for a prescription. Some pendants resembled a church window. “That time period was really special in all aspects,” states Professor Ruppert-Stroescu, who believes the influence of Lalique’s unforgettable artwork is not only in our jewelry today, but also in home decorating and furniture.
Among the tasteful pieces, pearls were noticed in almost every design. “We are seeing the pearl trend resurface,” Professor Ruppert-Stroescu states. Along with diamonds, pearls will always be a girl’s best friend. When visiting this section in the museum, you will notice the influence of flowers in Lalique’s jewelry. There were hair combs with ivy leaves and a belt buckle with lily pads. Tiffany & Co. tried to imitate the complementary orchid brooch flower pins that I saw. This delicate flower pin (shown right) was handmade with gold enamel, diamonds, three pearls, and the subtle color of seafoam green. Lalique’s long neck chains were popular in the early twentieth century and are still a part of our outfits in the twenty-first century. There was an interesting orange crab-shaped necklace set with two pearls representing the eyes. I was drawn to the dog collar necklaces, which resemble modern chunky bangle bracelets. These necklaces were shaped as beautiful transparent flowers. Years ago, they were worn tightly around a women’s neck.
trends11
GOSSIP GIRL STYLE
by Nerissa Mendes
It looks as if the Upper East Side isn’t the only place sporting the latest fashion. The hit show Gossip Girl, which airs on the CW network, has inspired young adults to dress like Manhattan socialites by adding their own personal twist. This drama has become a phenomenon, even influencing individuals here in Boston to revive their wardrobes by adding a splash of color, a hint of plaid, and an embellishment of jewelry. This edgy, fashion-forward show is here to stay and will be making headlines for its city-chic style. The interest won’t only be in the latest weekly drama; in addition, the clothes will be stirring up the buzz. Until next time, stylistas…XOXO
Left to right Kim, Sohyeon, & Lucy, 18 Boston
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Left to right Stephanie & Rachel, 20 Boston
YOUknowYOUloveME Danielle, 25 New York
Melissa, 19 Boston
Cassie, 20 Canada
Maya, 21 New York
trends13
Photographer: Stephen Cicco Stylists: Aly Beaujon, Demetrik Nealy, Elisa Bronstein, and Alisha Coble Models: Sabra and Shelby Stepanian
D
uring today’s tough economy, a sale is most definitely a sale. There was a time, however, when it was difficult to get excited about a sale, because it was safe to assume that the sale article had been marked up and suddenly, drastically slashed. On recent shopping trips, I’ve come across both unmarked sales and ones that made me feel more like an archaeologist than a Recessionista, but that resulted nonetheless in some wonderful finds. Continuing to follow fashion on a tight budget has proven a challenge, but one that may leave me with lasting frugal habits when the economy has righted itself. Fashionistas turned Recessionistas, like magazine companies, clothing retailers, and the politically prominent, have been put in an interesting position. In the past, Fashionistas have been charged with knowing and showing the latest trends, and now they must continue to display style on a budget. This challenge will only add to the Recessionista’s repertoire, as there are now both fiscal and fashion considerations in the creation of every outfit. Gone are the days when thrift entailed public humiliation; the new ideals of the Recessionista are here to stay. Living the Recessionista lifestyle allows us to feel thrifty, trendy, and fulfilled all at once. What could be better? My personal favorite find on the internet has been Mary Hall’s blog: therecessionista.blogspot. com. Here, Hall, marketing manager at IBM Redondo Beach, California, shares her latest and greatest tips on staying ahead of the fashion curve. She offers exclusive coupons to her subscribers, lists sales that might otherwise go unnoticed, and posts interesting stories that are sure to inspire others to act more like CSI agents when it comes to uncovering
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a sale. Reading through her site, I found these tricks to be the most resourceful: • Know how to reuse classic pieces in your closet in a fresh, new way. • Embrace the courage to be frugal: Ask for sales, use your coupons, and know that even though you’re spending less, this doesn’t mean you’re getting less. • Pick up simple, basic pieces from places such as H&M and Zara and from top designers’ lower-end brands such as Vera Wang’s line sold at Kohl’s.
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• Swap clothes with friends to complete your look without breaking your wallet. • Shop around at Goodwill, Salvation Army, and consignment shops to find unique, quality, lightly worn pieces. Get out there and show everyone your proud Recessionista self!
Get the Look!
Do you want to be perfectly styled while sticking to a budget? Try mixing and matching some of your high-priced clothing with low-budget accessories.
1. Tights, 99 cents (stylist owned) 2.
Fedora, $15 (thrift shop find) Necklace, $1.25 (flea market) Couture jacket (Designed by Dakin Davies)
2. (LEFT) Suit jacket, $10.99
(Forever 21); Purple shirt, $39 (XOXO); Parachute pants, $99 (Free People); Brown Heels, $60 (Steve Madden)
2. (RIGHT) Black dress,
$258 (Jessica McClintock); Tights, $3.67 (Walmart); Necklace, $10 (bought on NYC street)
3. (LEFT) Dress. $39.90 (Forever 3.(RIGHT) Dress, $300 (Karen 21); Earrings, $8.80 (Forever 21)
Miller); Earrings $1.90 (Forever 21)
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3.
Dress, $398.00, Elm Design. Available at Zia. Shoes, model’s own. Bag, price upon request, Sarian Designs. PHOTOS: Stephen Cicco STYLISTS: Christian DiPietro and Erica Valente SET DRESSER: Kayla McKenna PHOTOGRAPHER ASSISTANTS: Neil Bacon and Rizwan Samma MODELS: Gabriella Collado and Sadie Rebello HAIR/MAKEUP:Jaime Berkman for Eye4Beauty LOCATION: Lasell College, Hamel House
Dress, $165.00, Custo Barcelona. Coat, $310.00, ecru. Bracelet, $26.00. Available at Zia.
Dress, $165.00, Custo Barcelona. Coat, $310.00, ecru. Available at Zia. Bag, Sarian Designs. Shoes, model’s own.
Dress, $190, ART. Jacket, $298.00, Jackets by Cino. Available at Zia. Shoes, model’s own. Bag, price upon request, Sarian Designs. Bracelets, price upon request. Available at Zia
ZIA 1054 Beacon Street Brookline, MA 02446 ph: 617-566-1990 fax: 617-566-1770 ziaboston@comcast.net shopzia.com
Top, $136.00, Tribute HENI NEMAN. Pant, $190.00, ART. Available at Zia. Bracelet, $26. Available at Zia.
Dress, $240.00, An Ren. Available at Zia. Shoes, model’s own. Bag, price upon request, Sarian Designs.
Shaunt Sarian, Open Studio 9 Arpi Way (Mathews Avenue) Wayland,MA 01778 508 655 4565 s.sarian@verizon.net http://sariandesigns.com
The New Fashionable First Family by Kaleigh O’Brien
T
he hope and change that President Barack Obama has promised to bring to our country have already appeared in the fashions of the new First Family. The media has been paying close attention to what the President and his family have been wearing. The New York Daily News believes that the Obamas have the power to “shake up the stuffy White House style.” Before becoming First Lady, Michelle Obama was considered a fashion icon and was compared to the legendary Jacqueline Kennedy. Making American designers like Jason Wu, Maria Pinto and Isabel Toledo household names, Michelle is capable of having a classic First Lady look with a modern twist that actually shows her figure. When Michelle appeared on the talk show The View, the White House Black Market dress she wore sold out the following day. When asked about her personal style, Michelle stated in the March 2009 issue of Vogue ,”First and foremost, I wear what I love. That’s what women have to focus on: what makes them happy and what makes them feel comfortable and beautiful. If I can have any impact, I want women to feel good about themselves and have fun with fashion.”
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As for the President himself, Obama is also known for bringing a new look to the commander-in-chief position. Obama has been seen wearing luxurious Italian Ermenegildo Zegna suits and pieces from Hart Schaffner Marx of Chicago, who designed his inaugural tuxedo. The new president has already graced the covers of Men’s Vogue and GQ in the past year. Jim Moore, the creative director of GQ says of Obama: “There’s a very modern thinker there. He’s not the pattern-mixing guy, not even the khaki guy. You’ll very rarely even see him in jeans. He has an urbane, citified kind of palate. He has a vitality to him, and his image transcends race.” Because Obama has the ability to be cool yet business oriented and fashionable, he has become a cultural and fashion icon. Along with being an icon, Obama has become a muse to some of the most well known designers today. Diane von Furstenberg, Marc Jacobs, Isaac Mizrahi, Zac Posen, Narciso Rodriguez, and Vera Wang (to name a few) all created pieces that were inspired by Obama for his “Runway to Change” campaign and were sold on his official website during the presidential race. Donatella Versace even dedicated her Spring-Summer 2009 menswear to the President.
Obama is the first president to be mentioned on the high-fashion runways. Even the new first daughters are making their mark in the fashion world. Sasha and Malia Obama are now associated with J. Crew after they wore bright blue and orange pea coats at the inauguration. J. Crew’s official website crashed the following day, due to people searching for the coats and for Michelle’s now famous green gloves, all of which were designed exclusively for the Obamas. The company’s stock reportedly went up 10 percent in the days following the inauguration, when it was revealed that these were J. Crew products. The exciting part is that because of the large number of requests for those items, J. Crew has decided to add them to its Fall 2009 line. Gerson & Gerson Inc. has even decided to rename one of its dresses “Sasha,” after Sasha Obama wore it on election night and it quickly sold out. It seems that when an Obama wears something, it becomes an instant best-seller. It won’t be surprising if we see whole lines inspired by the First
Family at stores in our local malls. The new look that the Obamas are creating with bright colors and well-known names is helping to prove that politics can be exciting and interesting to follow. The Obama family is changing the way people actually see politics. The lifeless black suits and two-piece dress suits now seem to be White House fashions of the past. The First Family is coming to be known for taking designer pieces and mixing them with affordable American brands like Gap and J. Crew. In this time of economic troubles, all families are looking for a way to cut expenses. The new First Family has had a great influence on the way Americans are spending their money without even realizing it. The retail stores where the Obamas shop are the same ones we can all shop at, and if buying off the sale rack is acceptable for the First Family then it is certainly good enough for the average American shopper. Since it is easy for anyone to go out and dress like an Obama, it makes the general public better able to relate to the First Family.
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k c o “R r u o Y ” y d Bo ster
by Fallon Co
24culture
Body image is a huge focus for every American, from men to women and from children to adults. In our culture, appearances seem to be a high priority, ranking up there with careers and social class. Think about it. How many times have there been front-page photos of celebrity weight gains and weight losses just because individuals don’t display the “ideal” size 2-4 body type? Meanwhile, this ideal is something that few people can healthily maintain. Rarely can you read a magazine without seeing new ways to lose weight or reading about what you should and shouldn’t eat to get a “hot body.” Recent gossip was about Jessica Simpson’s newfound curves, but she is absolutely not the first celebrity to feel the heat. The same ridiculous press was smeared across magazine covers and television screens in pieces on Jennifer Love Hewitt, Renee Zellweger, Britney Spears, Tyra Banks, and so many other female celebrities. The press doesn’t forget the guys, but they don’t get as much scrutiny as ladies in the limelight when it comes to weight. Parents can’t bring their children to any grocery store checkout without encountering a display of magazine covers focusing on body types. Now don’t get me wrong; this isn’t a new problem. We can go as far back as the nineteenth century: Look at the scene in Gone with the Wind when Scarlet O’Hara is scowling about no longer having her eighteen-inch waist (which is about a size 1-2 in stores) after her pregnancy. Even when the 1920s saw moderation in the use of the corset to create a tiny waist, the ideal female body was still extremely and unattainably thin. While there are some women who are naturally slim, there are many others who cannot attain this ideal without sacrificing their health. And is it okay for the media to portray bodies like Jessica Simpson’s, which is healthily full-figured, as being unfashionable, unattractive, or even unacceptable? This presents a problem for the young people who are subjected to such media images. Now we have young girls and boys trying to achieve the airbrushed and personally trained bodies of celebrities, instead of accepting and loving what they have. A truly important part of being an American is the freedom we have obtained and that so many people have died to protect. This freedom includes the ability to embrace individuality in every religion, race, creed, shape, and size. Setting impossibly high beauty standards taints what we stand for as a culture. If having a higher body mass index than models means having reduced opportunities for success, aren’t we replicating the effects of the prejudice of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries?
Back then, it was skin color that determined one’s fate. Is our culture still focusing on appearance, such as body type? Having such judgmental views reflected in the media takes away from people’s ability to love who they are and live their lives freely and happily. Young people see and hear these media judgments every day when they watch television and listen to the radio, and they know that the media will frown upon full figures and emphasize the need to be a slim hourglass with fullness only in the preferred places. There is an entire industry making billions of dollars selling diet products, not to mention plastic surgery, all focusing on the obsessive need to achieve the ideal body. If you turn on VH1 to watch the “100 Most Wanted Bodies,” you will see that Pamela Anderson is rated number one because of her tiny waist and certain larger assets. This may help you understand what television suggests that young people aspire to. Indeed, the VH1 website following the introduction for this program features an extensive guide on how to look like the celebrities, including details on strict diets and daily workout plans. While we should all celebrate our bodies and love what we have and/or work for, it is damaging for the ideal to be so unattainable for such a large portion of the population.
It isn’t healthy for young women to be like Emily in The Devil Wears Prada, eating only a stick of cheese when she feels faint in order to be at her thinnest for the Paris fashion shows. Eating disorders are a very serious issue in our society, and the body image that is promoted everywhere contributes to pressure to go to the extreme to fit that image. As a culture, we need to embrace figures like Tyra’s and Jessica’s, because those celebrities are healthy and happy with their bodies. Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and everyone is beautiful in his or her unique way, no matter how much the media might promote the size 2-4 ideal of a beautiful body. Now it has been said that most women don’t come to accept their bodies until about age thirty, because up until that point they try to reach ideals that their genes and body type don’t allow. Instead, we should love what our mothers gave us, today and tomorrow and every day to come. There are some great celebrity role models out there. We just have to go through a lot of oysters before we can find the few pearls. As young adults, we need to set healthy, realistic examples so that later generations see that no matter how they look, they should be proud and confident. This is the American way, after all.
by Alyssa Fe tera
It took me a while. It took me almost a year: a year to figure out the right school and the right program for study abroad. I knew going into college I would study abroad, but I never actually thought about planning it. My name is Alyssa Fetera, and I am a junior at Lasell College. To be more specific, I am a fashion design major. Most people would assume any type of fashion student, if presented with the opportunity, would choose to study abroad in Italy or France. Milan or Paris would have to be the best places to study. Of course, Milan is Italy’s fashion capital, but what most people don’t realize is that the Italian style and the “Made in Italy” reputation were born in Florence. I took the less obvious path and decided on Florence as my destination. In spite of the exposure and glamour of Milan’s world of fashion, I realized how much Florence’s history has contributed to the creation of this global brand. It seems like a forgotten time, but it deserves the same acknowledgment that the world now accords to Italian style. Florence is most often associated with its artistic Renaissance history; here, tourists can view Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus. More important to our topic, it is also known for its textile history, which is truly the foundation of Italian fashion. Florence is home to the leather district as well as the wool and silk guilds that so many legendary
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designers have drawn from. Salvatore Ferragamo chose to settle and create his shoes here because of the impressive skills and strong craft trades the Florentines offered. Guccio Gucci even founded his famous brand right here in Florence. I know that you all have seen that famous logo on a bag or belt. When I was first introduced to Via De Tornabuoni, my first thought was Fifth Avenue, but better! You can find designer stores everywhere. Gucci, Prada, Pucci, Ferragamo, and many more famous Italian designers line the street with displays, one after another, of new fashion trends. Somehow, the fashions seem to have so much more significance in their birthplace. Even the Italian people live by the fashion the city has created. Both men and women bring a sense of sophistication and power to the streets of Florence in their clothing. High fashion brands aren’t the only style to be found in Florence. Many family-owned shops fill the streets. Nearly everything is handmade and, let’s be honest, when was the last time you bought something made by the person working in the shop? With this advantage, everything is unique as well, and each store has its own personality. Shops flourish with sales of jewelry, flowers, tassels, and much more. Everywhere you walk you are embraced by a sense of creativity and inspiration. To understand why Florence is the birthplace of
fashion, a historical overview is needed. Giovan Giorgini organized the first Italian fashion show at his villa in Florence in 1951. He had a second and then a third show at the Pitti Palace, which is now a museum dedicated to the preservation of paintings, sculptures, and its own costume collection. Each show brought in more buyers and journalists. The third show is considered the actual “birth of Italian fashion,” because at this point there were nine highfashion houses participating and sixteen houses of sportswear and boutique styles. People were really interested in what Italy had to offer. From that moment on, Italian fashion would never be the same. What does all this have to do with us? Ever since the first Italian fashion show, America has been sitting in the front row. Americans loved the Italian style and adopted it as their own, as we still do today. Because of America’s love for creativity and casual comfort, they embraced Italian fashion. From an economic perspective, they greatly contributed to the rise of Italian fashion. Florence did not remain Italy’s fashion capital, because of the rapid boom in the industry. There wasn’t room to accommodate the trade among countries. The fashion industry moved to Milan, where the space to hold events like Fashion Week was available. At this point, the industry had rapidly grown into a business that would soon become an empire.
Walking through cobblestone alleyways and streets, I saw firsthand the profound effect fashion has on life in Italy. The Renaissance architecture and Tuscan scenery present so much beauty and inspiration that flow into the fashion. I have come to appreciate the gift that Italian legends have brought and continue to bring to society. It is incredible that a small city in the heart of Tuscany has filled the Hollywood red carpets with so many glamorous gowns. It seems that anything can be accomplished if you have dedication and passion. I have now returned to Lasell College and, looking back on everything, I cannot think of any place where I could have experienced so much. No other country does what Italy can do. It’s fascinating, the way that certain experiences can lead to greater opportunities. During my stay in Europe, I was offered a chance to attend London Fashion Week. I had met Carlotta Gherzi, the designer of the up-and-coming Sado Fashion House;
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she shared her knowledge of the industry and offered interesting advice for new designers. At the end of our conversation, she offered the greatest gift any design student could imagine: She personally presented an invitation to help backstage at her show during London Fashion Week. To a fashion student, this is the Super Bowl of fashion, the Golden Globe, and the World Cup combined. I returned from London recently with a real image of a part of the industry. Granted, this is more the glamorous aspect; I was able to see the intensity backstage as well as the final outcome on the runway. It is impressive to see the number of people working vigorously in the back for one ten-minute showcase. They have a common passion and no matter the stress or the pressure, they strive toward their shared goal. Why would they want to be anywhere else?
by Holly Stephens
Area design students compete in a Mozart-inspired fashion design contest
Last February, the Boston Symphony Orchestra hosted Project Mozart, a fashion design competition in which eleven young up-and-coming designers from local schools submitted a piece inspired by Mozart’s influential music of the eighteenth century. The eleven contestants competing in Project Mozart included Emily Hancock, April LeBlanc, Charles Neumann, Rheanna Oliver-Palanca, and Christian DiPietro, from with Lasell College; Christel Akouri, Ashley Marie Collett, Virginia Grassilli, Lowander Lee, and Paige Skinner, from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design; and Cam Yen Le, from Mount Ida College. Each designer was given $150 to produce his or her design, and two months to complete a garment. On the big night of February 19, following the symphony, guests were escorted to a room featuring panels embellished with each designer’s inspiration and sketches, elegant food platters, and a carefully constructed raised runway. Judges positioned near the runway included Improper Bostonian’s Jonathan Soroff, Miss Massachusetts Alison Cronin, fashion designer Denise Hajjar, and Tonn, the executive director of Tonn Model Management.
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As each model worked the runway, cameramen snapped photos and the audience roared with delight. After the garments were presented, the panel of judges took a few moments to gather their thoughts and announce the Patron Favorite. Lowander Lee, an alumna of Massachusetts School of Art and Design, was selected; she designed a cocktail dress adorned with purple, silver, and black metallic sheets of Mozart’s music. The runner-up awards were then announced, recognizing Paige Skinner for her beautiful cocktail dress with a fitted bodice beaded with Swarovski crystals and Charles Neumann for his long blue taffeta gown complete with ornate jet-black beading and a exquisitely crafted wine-colored corset. At last, the winner of the Project Mozart competition was announced: it was once again Lowander Lee. Not only did Lee win Patron Favorite, but she was now able to walk away from the competition as the overall winner, awarded a $1000 check to Bloomingdale’s and a forthcoming feature article in Boston Common Magazine.
Photography by Stephen Fischer
Lowander Lee responded to a few questions regarding Project Mozart: How did you first become involved in the Project Mozart competition?
My friend, who is a graphic designer at the BSO, encouraged me to enter the competition. I was really excited to participate and thought it would be a great way to get my name out.
What was your inspiration surrounding Mozart’s music when designing your garment? Was there a particular piece by Mozart that moved you the most? I know the event was surrounding the Mozart concert series, so I looked up the different pieces the BSO would be performing that night. Many of the symphonies were of Mozart’s earlier works and had rarely or never been publicly performed. The one I was most familiar with was Symphony No. 40. I listened to it over and over and found the very first theme very captivating and moving. It had lightness, speed, and intensity. I knew I wanted to make the dress out of paper and decided on creating “petals” to mimic feathers. I wanted to take a contemporary approach so I designed it in a cocktail dress length. Finally I chose the purple color to represent the intensity that can be felt throughout the piece.
How did you go about making each individual heartshaped sheet of music that you adhered to the garment? I first constructed a corset foundation with a skirt that is sewn along the empire seam out of fabric. Then I used 5 different size hearts and cut out at least 500 hearts. I stopped counting after the first 10 sheets I used. I used 50 sheets of paper, which is the entire sheet music of Symphony No. 40, and it averaged about 8-12 hearts per sheet, depending on the size of the hearts. The bust part of the dress is also from sheet music cut into little squares. I started from the bottom and glued layer by layer using the biggest size first with the smallest size ending at the top.
How long did it take you to finish the complete dress? I worked on it over time for a month and a half but I tore apart the skirt section the night before the show because I was unhappy with the silhouette after gluing half the hearts on. The skirt body looked flat and not as trapeze as I had wanted. I recut a new skirt foundation and had to re-sew it onto the corset and cut out new hearts.
How did you go about choosing a model? Lowander Lee with her model on the runway during her big win.
BSO actually sent us a list of models and their portfolios. In looking at the models’ portfolios, I knew I wanted someone with curves since my dress was a trapeze A-line style. I felt my dress would look overpowering on someone that was too “skinny.” I chose Lindsay because she had an athletic healthy appeal.
What was it like when your model walked out with your garment on the big night of the show?
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I was really nervous because by that time, it’s the third night she has worn it and I was afraid some of the hearts might fall off! I did feel a real sense of accomplishment when it was all done...
What was your initial reaction to winning the contest? I was really, really excited and happy. I went to Mass Art’s continuing education program and never had the chance for a “runway” display of my design. I also felt a big sigh of relief that it was all over.
Which of the other designers’ garments did you enjoy the most? I really liked Paige Skinner’s short tulle corset dress. It looked so fun and pretty to wear. I also thought Christel Akouri looked really elegant and classy.
Is there anything you would have done differently in retrospect? I enjoyed every moment of it and I would have liked to have finished the garment sooner but I’m the type that gets my creative rush last minute.
What was the most valuable thing you learned out of participating and winning the Project Mozart contest? That I am so grateful my family and friends are and will always be there to support me with anything I choose to do.
What do you plan on purchasing with your $1,000 reward to Bloomingdales? I am going to purchase an investment piece...a Chanel handbag!
Where do you see yourself in the future regarding fashion? I would love to design my own line. Participating in Project Mozart gave me my creative passion back. Right now, I’m in merchandising. I’m going to try to start out small and start making designs for my friends to wear.
And just for good measure, who are your favorite fashion designers? I love Luella Bartley, Valentino, Chanel, John Galliano for Christian Dior, Marchesa, and Oscar de la Renta. I can’t afford any of them though! The eleven designers stand and wait with their models on the runway as the judges critique and review their designs.
RIDING THE Story and Photography by
Chelsea Mason
Waban Kouzina
1649 Beacon St. The Waban T stop has many options to choose from for a quick bite to eat. One place in particular is Kouzina, a restaurant with a menu inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. At a reasonable price, their well-prepared food is going to delight your senses.
Fenway Therapy 184 Brookline Ave The Fenway stop is filled with life; flashing bright lights and little shops will keep you coming back for more. This is the perfect stop to shop and grab a quick bite to eat. A unique clothing store in the Fenway T stop area is the boutique Therapy. This store carries mainly women’s clothing but also has men’s wear. The clothes are trendy and chic -- hipster meets vintage; the ladies’ selection is urban and elegant. Therapy carries clothing brands by designers from LA and NYC; prices range from $50 to $250.
Brookline Village HC Studio 30 Station St. This hair salon is one of a kind, with a hip ambiance. The studio has high ceilings and exposed brick walls for an urban feel, and the vast windows allow for natural light to shine into the studio. To get started, an appointment for a personal consultation is recommended. The salon has an experienced staff of hair colorists and designers who know contemporary hair styling; haircuts and coloring are based on personal style, to make you look your best. The salon’s services are of high quality, as are its hair products. A special feature of the studio is its alternative space for aspiring artists to display their work; the featured artist changes every two months.
Newton Center Bebe Spa 74 Langley Rd. This spa offers speedy service in a clean salon atmosphere. The friendly staff makes for a loyal clientele, and so do the reasonable prices. Bebe Spa is primarily a nail salon but also offers waxing and tanning services.
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Hynes Convention Center Natural Bean 250 Newbury Street The Natural Bean, which is on Newbury Street in an underground location, provides excellent service and a well-brewed cup of coffee. It’s not your average cup of coffee, because it’s completely organic! As a matter of fact, all the products in this coffee shop are organic. The Natural Bean also offers juice, tea, and organic baked goods; the teas include unique flavors such as jasmine and chai. It is a pleasant surprise to pay a reasonable price for organic products. The atmosphere is relaxing, with limited seating, unique archways, and an exposed brick interior. They also provide free Wi-Fi.
Hynes Convention Center Tapeo 266 Newbury St. This restaurant was established as a tapas bar. It offers an intimate setting for people to come together; it’s a great place for good drinks and a night out with friends. It also has a fun date atmosphere with a relaxing vibe.
Hynes Convention Center Lalo Treasures 255 Newbury Street This jewelry store is filled with organic designs inspired by botanicals, varying in texture and color. The store is vibrant with bejeweled displays of bracelets, earrings, rings, and other small treasures from key chains to candleholders. Prices range from $7 to $100. The designer of the jewelry is Orna Lalo, a graduate of the College of Engineering and Design in Israel.
Hynes Convention Center Kashmir 279 Newbury St. Kashmir would be best described as sophisticated dining in an Indian restaurant that also displays antique and modern artifacts from northern India. This tasteful environment allows you to explore the flavors of India: Kashmir provides good service; the food is fresh and elegantly prepared traditional Indian cuisine. The restaurant offers an intimate setting in Boston for a romantic date or a night out with a group of friends. A reservation is not needed; however, there is limited seating.
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Copley Café 939 Berklee 939 Boylston Street For a cup of coffee and live entertainment, the place to be is Café 939. This coffee house is open to guests of all ages. The atmosphere is intimate, and a unique feature of the café is the live entertainment. Performances range from local artists to national acts; they also showcase student talent and host open-mic nights. Café 939 welcomes all types of music, from jazz to hip-hop and electronic, to avant-garde.
Back Bay The Bee Hive Copley Bar Lola 160 Commonwealth Ave. Located in the heart of Back Bay, this is a hip tapas lounge filled with excitement. Live entertainment and Latino music create a fun atmosphere for a night out in Boston. Bar Lola is well known for its Spanish food and flamenco; the menu is inspired by Spanish cuisine, and the Latino music creates a romantic atmosphere that invites guests to mingle and have a good time. Bar Lola hosts live flamenco performances; the experience is complete with elegant cocktails, dinner, and entertainment.
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541 Tremont Street A fun atmosphere in a club environment, the Bee Hive is a hot club to visit during a weekend with friends. A night out with drinks and dining is well spent while you listen to trendy music that varies from jazz to cabaret. Live music and simple food create an open atmosphere for a good time. The dress is casual and prices range from $15 to $30.
three’s a charm by Julie Bortnick
Three dynamic women, a multitude of clients, one agency: These describe the Moxie Agency, Boston’s newest and hottest public relations firm. Regan Dillon, Jo Swani, and Sophie Zunz came together after many years in and around the business, and they decided to start an agency of their own. Public relations, marketing, consulting, and events are what the Moxie Agency is all about. Services these ladies provide for their clients include reinforcement of local awareness of a company, strengthening of a company’s position in the industry, contact with target clientele, hospitality and retail openings, product launches, brainstorming sessions, and so much more.
Dillon has been in the marketing and public relations industry for over ten years. She has served as Director of Public Relations at the Four Seasons Hotel Boston; in other capacities, she has opened the Liberty Hotel in Boston, promoted celebrity chef Jody Adams of Rialto Restaurant, and worked with a technology public relations agency in Los Angeles. She loves to travel and enjoys exquisite foods. Swani has also been in the industry for quite a few years. She was a publicist at a boutique PR firm, specializing in hospitality and culinary. She handled a nationwide cookbook publicity tour with Chef Gordon
Hamersley of Hamersley’s Bistro, Boston Restaurant Week, and the Boston-based organization Chefs Collaborative. Swani also loves to travel, and she always enjoys trying out the newest and latest hotspot in town. Zunz started working as a marketing manager for Giorgio Armani Fragrances. This led to a position with Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessey in New York, developing new product lines in the Marc Jacobs fragrance division. Here in Boston, Zunz was Director of Public Relations and Promotions for the Charles Hotel. She oversaw PR around the hotel’s incredible renovation. She loves to travel as well, especially to France, and cooking is one of her favorite pastimes.
The Moxie Agency’s client list is an impressive one. Clink, The Charles Hotel, Green Tangerine Spa and Salon, Daniela Corte, and The Achilles Project are among the clients on their extensive and glamorous list. These three women have done something right; they are the most talked about PR firm in the city and have been planning the most popular, hottest events around. Their clients trust them, and it’s clear why. They have helped Boston’s PR scene in more ways than one, and these ladies are in the process of making Boston the greatest city on the map. For more information on The Moxie Agency, visit:
www.themoxieagency.com or e-mail them at:
info@themoxieagency.com.
entertainment
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by Lauren LaDeau & Bryana Prout
33 entertainment
The House of Blues has finally returned to Boston. The former House of Blues, located on Winthrop Street in Cambridge, opened in 1992 but closed ten years later. On February 20, House of Blues reopened at its new location, 15 Lansdowne Street in Boston. With its 53,000 square feet, the new space is nearly ten times the size of the earlier Harvard Square venue. After the closings of Avalon and Axis, House of Blues Boston should be an exciting addition to the nightlife near Fenway. Live Nation plans to book somewhere around two hundred shows a year with a variety of musical performers in the spacious concert hall. There has already been an amazing response, with ticket sales through the roof and
major network press coverage. Marketing manager of House of Blues Howie Turkenkopf says that the House of Blues Boston “fits much more with the brand that it’s become.” If the size of the building alone doesn’t induce visitors to take a look inside, talk of the restaurant and main room should. The restaurant seats about 125 people comfortably, and the front lounge room can accommodate about 350. It’s not a bad spot to hang out in while waiting for a show to begin. The main stage room has three levels: the General Admission floor, the General Admission balcony area, and a reserved seating area above the balcony. This represents quite a contrast from the House of Blues in Cambridge, which held only
180 people; the new venue can hold 2400. In front of the General Admission area is the main stage, which is higher than the main floor. The stage itself is wide and is very deep, which will help the band move in and out much more easily than on the original stage. The walls of the venue are hand painted a burnt orange, with intricate details in a pale yellow. The walls are also covered with original pieces of Southern folk art, giving the space that regional feel. And if that’s not enough for visitors to feel they’ve entered a new realm, they can check out the restaurant. The dining area has a New Orleans look to it, very cultured, with wall mosaics of blues legends, folk art paintings, and tables moved close together so that everyone feels a part of something. In addition to the one in the restaurant, there is a bar on every floor in the main
room, except for the reserved balcony seating area. On the General Admission floor there are two bars on each side, but there is only one in the General Admission balcony area. Setting this House of Blues apart is the lavish VIP Foundation Room. As you enter the Foundation Room, your eyes focus on the walls. They are covered with colorful and detailed fabric from Gujarat, remnants of old Indian wedding dresses. The VIP dining area is definitely a change from the main dining room, with sophisticated décor and a fine dining menu that is different from the one in the main restaurant. Also available to VIP members is a media room and the option to rent out a Prayer Room, which is an exclusive room where a member and guests can enjoy themselves over cocktails. To have
access to the Foundation Room, you need a national membership, which can run $2500 and upward. However, even though it carries a hefty price tag, 20 percent of the profits from the membership go directly to the House of Blues Foundation, which brings the arts to schools and communities through programs that increase public awareness of African American contributions to American culture (IHOBF.org). Familiar as the House of Blues but uniquely Boston, the renewed venue is sure to attract college students in and around the city looking for a local place to have a good time. Providing food, entertainment, and a place to socialize, it will quickly become a big hotspot. House of Blues will undoubtedly flourish in Boston.