Couture - SFC Fashion Magazine (1st Edition, Spring 22)

couture

SPORTS DRESS CODE: Oympics’ games have exposed sexist uniforms (6-7)

PALESTINIAN FASHION: Real meaning behind the clothes (32-33)

FASHION & THE COP26: The race against climate change (20-21)

SFC STUDENTS REVEAL IDENTITY THROUGH FASHION

sfcfashionclub@gmail.com

@sfc.fashionclub

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR by Gabriella

06 09 20 22 32 34 36

FASHION IN THE SPORTS FIELD

by Katarina Cordero

RARE: SFC Students Style

by Ivana Grandic

FASHION AND SUSTAINABILITY

by Gabriella Nascimento de Oliveira

PHOTOSHOOT

by Anna Maria Leal

PALESTINIAN FASHION

by Maryam Shuaib

OP-ED: FASHION INCLUSIVITY

by Jessica Huang

OP-ED: PERSONAL STYLE

by Ivana Grandic

Nascimento de Oliveira

CONTRIBUTORS

Gabriella N. de Oliveira Editor in Chief

Gabriella is the Founder and Editor in Chief of Couture - the newest magazine of the Fashion Club at St. Francis College. She writes about the fashion business, sustainability, trends, and marketing. She is also the creative director of the photoshoot and the designer of the magazine graphics.

Katarina is a Communications Art student with a concentration in Digital Media at SFC. She is interested in sports, writing, and media. As a writer for Couture, Katarina covered Olympics events and described the problem of dress codes inside the industry.

Antonio is a freelance photographer with a focus on landscapes and portrait photography. As a photographer for Couture, he gives visual life to the article about SFC students’ style with Ivana Grandic. You can follow his work at @thatguy_antonio on Instagram.

Ivana is the News Editor of Couture and leads the main article of this edition. Besides interviewing SFC students, Ivana also wrote an opinion editorial about her style. On top of that, she leads creative direction in her photoshoot article.

Maryam Shuaib is a PalestinianAmerican devoted to increasing Middle Eastern representation at St. Francis College. As a writer for Couture, she explains how fashion and politics are connected to symbological prints on garments.

AnnaMaria is a graduate student majoring in Psychology at SFC. Her love for photography lead her to reestablish the Photography Club on campus after it had been inactive for several years. During her presidency, the club has been awarded Special Interest Club of the Year for 2 years in a row.

As the Executive Assistant of Couture, Beatriz manages daily activities for articles and photoshoots. She is responsible for scheduling appointments with talents and running errands during creative projects and executive meetings.

Jessica Huang is a psychology major at St. Francis College. She focuses on news about fashion, inclusivity, and new trends. As a writer for Couture, she gave her personal view and wrote about her experience with fashion as a person with a disability.

Alexa LaBarbera

Charles Bonsu

Ivana Grandic

James O’Brien

Kayshaw Saravia

Leila Olivier

Makayla Simpkins

Minerva Spence

Sophia Marino

Sunia Rahman

Ivana Grandic News Editor

Beatriz Amarante Executive Assistant

Katarina Cordero Writer

Maryam Shuaib Writer

Jessica Huang Writer

Antonio Connolly Photographer

AnnaMaria Leal Photographer MODELS

expression of fashion LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

In the last two years, sophisticated and high-fashion style transformed into comfortable pieces and athletic wear in the surge of the COVID-19 pandemic. By the end of quarantine, exuberance was back in the streets as a response to the desire for in-person

connections. Whether you have been following the global trend or not, one thing is clear: fashion has always been a representation of how society feels about the world. Pants are connected to the surge of women in the workforce. The women’s movement for equality also brought miniskirts later on. The rebellion against conventions

resulted in the 80s overstatement of garments. MTV and bands’ success gave rise to subcultural styles such as hip hop, indie, and bohemian. As a teenager, I had different styles. Gothic, streetwear, and hippie were just some of them. I was inspired by a different musical taste, high school friends, and old dreams. I was representing what was true to me at that time. I expressed all of my teenage dreams. It is normal to keep changing until you find clothing that defines you. Since fashion expresses so much about a person, it is common to try it out until you find your own voice. By growing up and finding my passions, I found my true style. The students of St. Francis College have also found something expressive and worthy of your time. The first edition of Couture is all about identity and expression. St. Francis College is a very diverse campus, but every student is connected to their inner style, showcasing their personality in this magazine. For us, it is essential to get on the core of fashion as we start this new journey at SFC. We’re also covering important topics on sports, sustainability, Palestinian culture, and fashion inclusivity. Welcome to Couture and enjoy this edition.

Gabriella Nascimento de Oliveira, Editor in Chief @ella.nascimento

POWER OF FASHION — An instrument of expression and identity.

Women Dress Code

by Katarina Cordero

During the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, female athletes spoke out about an important matter. Several female athletes discussed how their apparel made them feel over -sexualized and shamed.

The German gymnastic team chose to use full-body leotards instead of bikini cut leotards at the Toyo Olympics to avoid the over-sexualization of their athletes.

“It’s about what feels comfortable,” German gymnast Elisabeth Seitz said. “We wanted to show that every woman, everybody, should decide what to wear.”

World Champion and double Paralympian, Olivia Breen discussed an issue regarding British officials and the length of her shorts. She was told that her sprinter briefs were too short for competition.

In a statement posted to Twitter, Breen questioned whether a male competitor would be similarly criticized. The female official’s comment, “really shocks me and makes

me really cross,” Breen wrote. “I just thought, that needs to change.”

There was also an incident with the Norway women’s beach handball team. Each member was fined $1,500 for “improper clothing” when players decided to wear shorts instead of bikini bottoms during a European Championship game.

According to International Handball Federation (IHF) regulations, female athletes must wear bikini bottoms with a maximum side width of 10 centimeters (3.9 inches), a “close fit” and “cut on an upward angle toward the top of the leg” -- though the dress code allows male athletes to wear shorts that are “not too baggy” and 10 centimeters above the kneecap.

“With those bikinis, we were all the time checking if it’s in the right place. We were focusing on other things than the sport — and that’s not something we want,” said Julie Aspelund Berg, a defender with Norway’s beach handball team.

Women have always had to fight for their place in sports.

SEXUALIZATION OF THE DRESS CODE IN SPORTS

“Women’s sport only ever gets the same representation as men’s

sport during the Olympics, and I think Wimbledon is probably the only

- Olivia

Code in the Playfield

Olympics first started in 1896, women were not allowed to participate until 1900. Of the 997 athletes, only 22 were females that competed in only five sports. Women competing in sports like lawn tennis in the 19th century wore corsets and big skirts, which obviously didn’t allow very good movement.

Dress codes were “trying to hit that balance between their femininity and their athleticism. So, basically then after they finished playing tennis, they could still find husbands,” stated Hobson.

Conversely, male clothing is never commented upon.

The International Olympic Committee instructs broadcasters not to “focus unnecessarily on looks” like make-up, hair, nails, clothing or “intimate body parts” like “crotch shots, cleavage, backsides” “especially if it does not relate to an athlete’s performance.”

Olivia Breen has questioned the administration’s decision.

other time it happens,”

Michael Hobson, a lecturer

in physical and

sports education at St Mary’s

University

stated.

Even though the

Numerous studies have been done on tennis tournaments, like Wimbledon, investigating how often female clothing was commented on.

Female athletes should be shown the respect they deserve without their sexuality being on full display. Having female athletes taking charge of their clothing and athletic wear brings the attention forward.

It will start conversations of how fashion and sports about hand in hand.

CHASE FOR EQUALITY — Women speak up about having to wear a bikini as a uniform.

RARE:

Insight of the students styles in the Brooklyn Heights campus.

by Ivana Grandic

Photography: Antonio Connolly

Creative Director: Ivana Grandic

Model (left to right): Ivana Grandic; Charles Bonsu.

When walking through the St. Francis College halls, there are various people who have impeccable style. These individuals all have an identity of their own and I had the privilege to be able to discuss what fashion really means to them and how they find it to be impactful to others. To begin, I got to interview one of my good friends James O’Brien. He is someone who always has a good sense of street style and is able to pull a look together. Whether it’s a casual or sophisticated outfit, he knows the perfect way to pair his clothing. With this, I knew I wanted to take a page from his book and really divulge into James’ mentality on fashion and how he makes it into his own form of art.

I: When you think of the word style, what does that mean to you?

J: To me, style means wearing something that makes you feel good and confident.

I: What’s something that’s trending in the fashion industry that you are a fan of?

J: I’m a fan of the Nike SB’s, Jordan Ones, and workwear clothing such as Carhartt and Dickies.

I: What are the typical shops that you invest the most time in?

J: Some shops I tend to look into are L train vintage, Zara, and Depop. Depop and L Train Vintage are where I tend to buy vintage shirts and sweaters. When I’m looking for a pair of jeans, I know I have to check out Zara.

I: What is a brand that resonates with you and why?

J: Carhartt and Harley because it provides good fitting for my body, without being too baggy or tight.

I: What’s something you feel that’s always changing in the fashion industry? What stays the same?

J: Accessories are always a staple and continue to stay the same. This can be anything such as rings, necklaces,

belts, hats, and earrings that can really put a look together. When it comes to change in the fashion industry, I think the fitting of clothing evolves differently. Fittings used to be heavily super skinny and tight, but now the baggy type of fitting is much more popular.

I: Who do you look up to when it comes to fashion sense?

J: Jordan Clarkson who is a basketball player for the team Utah Jazz. Connor McGregor who is a notorious UFC fighter. I really like their fashion and confidence. Even when they are wearing something that is more ‘out there’, they still remain true and confident to themselves.

I: In SFC, what clothing or style do you think is a major trend right now?

J: I feel like a major trend I see in SFC is people wearing sweatpants, pajamas, or SFC gear.

I: What’s one piece of advice you have for people pursuing a career in fashion? And want to improve their style?

J: My one piece of advice is to keep an open mind because everyone has a different taste and sense of fashion. Sometimes what one person may like wearing, the other may not, which is all a part of the way fashion is.

After getting to dive deeper into James’s love for fashion, it is clear that he is very well-versed in terms of fashion brands, moguls, and shops. He provides fresh insight on how clothing is changing in the industry, while also remaining true to his own representation of what designs and style mean to him. Not only does he explore various types of clothing, but he challenges others to do the same and embrace who they are. Confidence and uniqueness are what he urges people to strive for when putting on their favorite look for the day. I hope with this, you all find his positive and innovative outlook to motivate you to continue owning who you are despite what others may think.

Photography: Antonio Connolly

Creative Director: Ivana Grandic

Model (left to right): Ivana Grandic; James O’Brien

Photography: Antonio Connolly

Creative Director: Ivana Grandic

Model: Alexa LaBarbera

When thinking about the next person I would love to discuss fashion with, I knew I had to ask my close friend Alexa LaBarbera. Every time we would record podcast episodes together, I would always take note of how effortlessly it was for her to assemble a trendy outfit. Alexa particularly has an eye for making her outfits as color-coordinated as possible, ranging from her top all the way to her shoes. It is without a doubt that she could formulate her own trends with her bold looks and confidence.

I: When you think of the word style, what does that mean to you?

A: Personally, I think of style as a physical way for someone to really express themselves by what they choose to wear every day.

I: What’s something that’s trending in the fashion industry that you are a fan of?

A: I’m obsessed with the new trend of small purses like shoulder bags. I think they’re the perfect accessory to dress up any outfit.

I: What are the typical shops that you invest the most time in?

A: One of my favorite stores at the moment is H&M. I’m not really someone who shops as a hobby, instead I find myself in a store only because I need a new outfit for a party or an event. Recently, I’ve been going to my nearest H&M to grab a cute outfit for outfit that’s fast, easy, and very reasonably priced.

I: What is a brand that resonates with you and why?

A: One of my favorite brands is Aritzia. I love everything they sell from their puffer jackets, leather pants, and sweatsuits. Everything in my opinion is good quality and super cute. If I ever get the chance to treat myself to a new special piece to add to my wardrobe, Aritzia is always my go-to.

I: What’s something you feel that’s always changing in the fashion industry? What stays the

same?

A: I think accessories are always changing, especially from 2019 to 2021. I feel like there have been so many phases of accessories that have come and gone. Scrunchies were a big phase a few years ago, but now hair clips are the newest trend. As for things that stay the same, I feel like the basics such as jackets, sneakers, etc. have a longer chance of staying in someone’s clothing rotation because they are always in style.

I: Who do you look up to when it comes to fashion sense?

A: I absolutely love Hailey Bieber. No matter what she wears even if it’s just a cozy sweatsuit she always looks so put together in such a gorgeous way. I also love Emma Chamberlain, she is someone who’s really able to express herself through their style and outfits. I think they both make really big impacts with their style and are always catching people’s attention in the best ways.

I: In SFC, what clothing or style do you think is a major trend right now?

A: As the weather gets colder in the city I love seeing how people around SFC dress for the cold, but still manage to keep a good outfit. Everyone’s been accessorizing with their favorite jackets, boots, hats, etc.

I: What’s one piece of advice you have for people pursuing a career in fashion? And want to improve their style?

A: For anyone who’s pursuing any creativity-based career, I encourage them no matter what it is they do, to take the risks to try something new and different. Make sure it hasn’t quite ever been done before.

“Make sure it has not quite ever been done before.”

When evaluating Alexa’s own perception of fashion, I found it to be extremely knowledgeable and fascinating. She is able to easily gather what is trending within the industry and what is no longer popular. It is amazing how she knows what catches people’s attention and can make something that is perceived as bland to be captivating.

By keeping updated with fashion moguls, she represents this generation’s ability to quickly adapt to new fashion trends while also remaining distinctive among a crowd.

For those who are ever conflicted about where to shop or want to be an uprising fashion icon, Alexa is your go-to girl for all things style and fun.

FASHIONABLE CONVERSATIONS — Ivana Grandic interviews her close friend Alexa LaBarbera.

TRENDSETTER — Alexa represents boldness and confidence in her style.

“Alexa is your goto girl for all things style and fun.”

Photography: Antonio Connolly

Creative Director: Ivana Grandic

Model: Charles Bonsu

As I began to wonder who I would love to interview next, immediately my good friend Charles Bonsu came to mind. He has always been known to make statements through his fashion by effectively choosing articles of clothing that speak to him the most. It is done with such ease which displays not only his love for fashion but how finding a suitable style for the day comes naturally to him. This confidence and ability to make an outfit shine is what I wanted him to embed in others.

I: When you think of the word style, what does that mean to you?

C: To me, the word style means a person’s fashion sense. For example, dressing to suit your personality, being comfortable, and feeling good in whatever you wear.

I: What’s something that’s trending in the fashion industry that you are a fan of?

C: Kanye’s new fashion lines, especially his puffer jackets. Kanye’s creativity is amazing and his clothes are extremely comfortable.

I: What are the typical shops that you invest the most time in?

C: Shopping online is cool, but I always hated the idea of waiting for the clothes to come, and then when they arrive they don’t fit. This caused me to spend a lot of time in thrift stores instead.

I: What is a brand that resonates with you and why?

C: I’m not a person who likes anything trendy. I like to stay away from trendy clothes with the exception of supreme brands that preach comfort because I am all about looking comfortable. I don’t have a brand I resonate with.

I: What’s something you feel that’s always changing in the fashion industry? What stays the same?

C: A lot has been changing in the fashion industry, everything is always changing. I honestly think nothing stays the same. There is always a different agenda in fashion every year and every decade.

I: Who do you look up to when it comes to fashion sense?

C: I personally don’t look up to anyone. I am selftaught. My idea of “style” is about being comfortable, dressing to match your personality.

I: In SFC, what clothing or style do you think is a major trend right now?

C: The black SFC hoodie I’ve been seeing almost everywhere and I think it looks good. I want one, someone to tell me where I can get one. Another major trend is wearing different face masks.

I: What’s one piece of advice you have for people pursuing a career in fashion? And want to improve their style?

Charles is all about being authentic with fashion.

C: If you’re pursuing a career in fashion, go for it, as long as it makes you happy. If you want to improve your style, dress to match your personality, look comfortable, don’t dress to impress. It’s very lame if you ask me.

Photography: Antonio Connolly

Creative Director: Ivana Grandic

Model (left to right): Ivana Grandic; Sunia Rahman

Not only did Charles evaluate what fashion means in this day and age, but he encourages others to have more faith in their style. He is the epitome of ‘breaking away from the norm’ and following the beat to your own drum. There is an importance in looking comfortable, but representing your own while doing so. By admiring other moguls’ creativity, he acknowledges other forms of art and understands the hard work that goes into making an iconic fashion look. It is with this respect, passion, and individuality that has allowed him to influence those who are entering into the fashion world Finally, I wanted to examine a newfound blend of fashion through my friend Sunia Rahman’s culture. She offers a fresh perspective on various trends and moguls who are causing an uproar through social media. It was crucial for me to assess how she pieces articles of clothing together because she has a knack for assembling a casual, but cute look. With her particular uniqueness, one can find her mindset to be fascinating, yet still simple and calm.

I: When you think of the word style, what does that mean to you?

S: It means creativity and confidence. I like being able to put different clothes together and just letting my imagination run free.

I: What’s something that’s trending in the fashion industry that you are a fan of?

S: To name a few, I like corsets, hoodies with blazers, and sweater vests.

I: What are the typical shops that you invest the most time in?

S: Forever 21, Zara, H&M are the three that I shop the most from.

I: What is a brand that resonates with you and why?

S: I don’t shop from Aritzia but I enjoy their new lines every time. It resonates with me since they have a wide selection and most of their clothing is modest as well.

I: What’s something you feel that’s always changing in the fashion industry? What stays the same?

S: I feel that old fashion trends always come back with a twist. Chokers, low-waisted jeans, flared pants, bell sleeves, etc. are all old fashion trends that took over the fashion industry again. Trench coats I think will never go out of style since you can pair them with just

about anything.

I: Who do you look up to when it comes to fashion sense?

S:I follow a lot of Muslim vloggers and they have a very unique sense of fashion that also is modest at the same time. Also, just fashion ideas from social media platforms.

I: In SFC, what clothing or style do you think is a major trend right now?

S: Mom and boyfriend jeans for sure, I see everyone wearing them all the time. Not that I blame them since I do the same.

I: What’s one piece of advice you have for people pursuing a career in fashion? And want to improve their style?

S: Taking risks for sure. You never know what you look good in unless you try it so it’s good to experiment.

“You never know what you look good in unless you try it so it’s good to experiment.”

Overall, I was enamored with everyone’s refreshing attitude toward fashion and how different styles make one unique and special. There is significance found in owning who you are no matter what anyone has to say. Your self-worth is determined by who you truly are and what allows you to feel your best. Never let anyone tell you otherwise and continue to be your most fashionable self just like James, Charles, Alexa and Sunia exert to others. Always remember to remain rare.

“Sometimes we just need to be reminded how rare we actually are. Be you, be proud, be rare.”

“To me, style means wearing something that makes you feel good and confident.”

- James O’Brien

COP26 Powers Up the Fashion Sustainability Race

by Gabriella Nascimento de Oliveira

It is time to act in the fashion industry. Following the COP26, the big leaders of the fashion empire have decided to act more sustainably to reduce environmental damage. Along with new government measures, the UN Fashion Charter was also updated with new goals and signed by multiple companies.

Sustainable discussions have been on the rise in fashion for the last few years, but the industry is still a major contributor to pollution. The current measures are not enough to decrease global warming. According to the Global Fashion Agenda report, the fashion industry’s emissions will rise to around 2.7 billion tonnes a year by 2030 if production stays the same.

The United Nations 26th climate change conference, which happened in Glasgow this year, confirmed the urgency of the issue. The global goal is to keep within 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-

industrial levels. Fashion brands decided that it is time to accelerate the process in order to align with the internationally agreed limit of global warming.

“Our position as a leader entails social and environmental responsibilities. We need to go further than simply meeting standards,” said Bernard Arnault, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of LVMH, who recently joined the UN Fashion Charter.

LVMH’s participation in the climate action is a remarkable act since the conglomerate holds famous luxury brands such as LouisVuitton, Dior, and Marc Jacobs.

Along with one of the biggest conglomerates in the industry, a variety of fashion brands claim to make efforts to reduce the climate change effects.

The promises around the COP26 include regenerative farming, low climate impact fabrics, and supply collaborations.

Besides that, the organizations plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,

WILL FASHION EVER BE SUSTAINABLE?

— Brands have updated goals around the COP26.

reaching zero carbon emission by 2050.

The commitments also involve transparency in the production chain - the startup Eon has proposed a digital ID that shows sustainability credentials to customers. Similar to a passport towards clothing, the digital ID powers circular commerce and leads buyers to a network of suppliers.

The appearance of revolutionary technologies and new sustainable goals have given hope to the public. Particularly, Gen Z and young Millenials feel more prone to buy from brands committed to environmental care.

“In the race against climate change, we aren’t just waiting for solutions, we’re creating them through greater use of sustainable materials and developing sustainable products that rely on circular design,”

says John Donahoe, President & CEO of Nike. However, there are still difficulties to overcome. Some heads of State, like President Xi Jinping of China, Vladimir V. Putin of Russia, and Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil refused to travel for the UN conference. This could mean a lack of willingness to implement regulations in some countries. Another issue in the climate mission is the absence of financial ability to move towards sustainable practices in developing countries.

At this time, it is complex to point out the existence of state regulation or funds towards sustainable practices. However, it is certain to say that fashion is more committed to sustainable production, degrowth, and circular economy after the COP26.

IDENTITY THROUGH FASHION

Photography: AnnaMaria Leal

Creative Director: Gabriella N. de Oliveira

Models (left ro right): Leila Olivier, Kayshaw Saravia

Photography: AnnaMaria Leal

Creative Director: Gabriella N. de Oliveira

Models (left to right): Sophia Marino; Minerva Spence

Photography: AnnaMaria Leal

Creative Director: Gabriella N. de Oliveira

Models (left to right): Kayshaw Saravia; Makayla Simpkins

Photography: AnnaMaria Leal

Creative Director: Gabriella N. de Oliveira

Models (left to right): Minerva Spence; Makayla Simpkins

Photography: AnnaMaria Leal

Creative Director: Gabriella N. de Oliveira

Model (left to right): Leila Olivier; Sophia Marino

Threads of Resistance

By Maryam Shuaib

communicate a more laid back and relaxed environment. Fashion, as a concept, is the epicenter of any form of communication that does not contain verbal interaction. Given the multitude of messages, fashion is capable of encapsulating in everyday life, it is also one of the most political choices people make. Palestinian fashion is an example of this as the occupation of Palestinian territories has shifted the dynamic indigenous Palestinians have over their homes and native lands.

From its salty seas to its glimmering blue cloudless skies, Palestine is a rather unique country that captures many forms of history. Aside from its picturesque landscape, apartheid and occupation are common concepts embedded into the deep roots of olive trees. To Palestinians living in the West Bank and other Occupied Palestinian Territories, resistance against settler colonialism is the only way for them to claim their existence.

In recent years, the Palestinian movement of resistance has been popularized on social media outlets with symbols of black and white scarves appearing in protests as people march for Palestinian liberation. These scarves are known as kufiyahs, which encapsulate many symbols of Palestinian culture and resistance. The stitching of the kufiyah represents many aspects of indigenous Palestinian culture. The fishnet-like stitching represents the deep connection Palestinians have with the Mediterranean Sea. Detailed stitching on the perimeter of the kufiyah represents perseverance, strength, and resilience. Lastly, the bold black lines represent trade routes of natural and cultural exchange.

PALESTINIAN RESISTANCE

popularism as people marched for Palestinian liberation (1).

Many associate clothing with subliminal expression. Silk button-ups and black slacks are often synonymous with the formalities of everyday life while ripped denim jeans and a graphic crewneck

Authentic Palestinian kufiyahs are made in the Hirbawi factory in Hebron, Palestine, which is in the West Bank. The Hirbawi factory is the last standing factory in all the West Bank that produces the mainstream symbol of Palestinian resistance, thus making the display of this scarf in protests more politically significant.

Celebrities like Bella Hadid have also worn the kufiyah as a symbol of political resistance,

— Kufiyahs

as she demonstrated her solidarity with Palestine at a protest in late May of this year. The iconic kufiyah is an explicit example of how fashion can serve as a political symbol in the fight for freedom.

In a world where settler colonialism occupies any possibility of sovereignty, fashion in Palestine works to create a world of hope, perseverance, and strength that will live on to depict just how long and hard Palestinians have and will continue, to fight for the right of return.

Another example of implicit advocation for independence is through the intricate art of weaving. Tatreeze is a form of embroidery embraced, mostly, by Palestinian women. Tatreeze depicts the political relationship between the needle and thread as it produces a thobe, or Palestinian dress, that contains unique patterns of colorful thread around the chest, arms, and hems that implicitly demonstrate endurance. Every thobe’s pattern differs from its place of origin, however, threading techniques are generally the same.

The occupation of Palestine has changed the trajectory of tatreeze; shifting its symbolism to represent the deep connections Palestinians have to their vast lands. The stylistic decisions made as women embroider thobes are mainly motivated by the villages they originate from.

On the top (2), Congresswoman Talib’s thobe contains mostly red snitching and occasional

pops of color, which shows that in Palestine, she originates from the city of Ramallah, hence demonstrating her connections to the West Bank.

At surface value, the intricate stitching patterns may not spark any symbolism to people who are not of Palestinian origin, however, to Palestinian natives, the meticulous result of tatreeze is a form of fashion that represents the ongoing fight to liberation with the certainty that Palestinians will once again rejoice in their lands as they did prior to 1948.

SYMBOLISM — Palestinian patterns (3).

A PUBLIC POLITICAL FORCE - Congresswoman Talib’s thobe showcases Palestinian symbology (2).

Fashion Forward

THE IMPORTANCE OF ADAPTIVE FASHION

FASHION SHOULD NOT BE A LIMIT — Brands should think about disability when designing clothes.

By Jessica Huang

We all have our own unique identity and a big part of our identity lies in what we wear. People with disabilities constitute the largest minority group in the world, many face challenges finding clothes that are both fashionable and functional for their abilities.

This is where adaptive clothing comes in. It is clothing that has been designed to meet the needs of people with different disabilities.

Imagine how it feels for a person to be able to dress for the first time. What could this mean for their ability to get ready for work in the morning?

As a wheelchair user and young adult with cerebral palsy, a disorder that affects movement and coordination, having access to adaptive clothing has eased the dressing process.

Adaptive clothing is vital to fostering independence, increasing confidence, and opening a world of possibilities for people who have disabilities. It is the key to fostering independence for people with disabilities during the dressing process and throughout everyday activities.

Think of all the individual components of a piece of clothing. Buttons and zippers can prevent difficulties for those with poor manual dexterity, limiting their independence; some adaptations that can be made include magnetic fasteners and snaps.

These are easier to grasp and do not require as much precision, conserving time and energy adaptations can make it easier for a person who struggles with manual dexterity to adjust to the temperature changes without asking for help.

The adaptations mentioned above can also be applied to footwear. When it comes to tying shoes and zippers can ease the process into one smooth motion.

Pockets on clothing are often only big enough to fit certain phones. Some clothes do not have pockets at all. For a person that uses an assistive device, such as a walker or wheelchair, having more space to store their belongings can help them concentrate on moving around safely.

With independence comes confidence. Anyone

should be able to feel confident no matter what they wear.

People who require assistance dressing, often have to give more consideration to factors such as the weather and where they are going for the day when they decide what to wear. this is because the dressing process can be tedious for both the individual and caregiver. Having to make such decisions limits the clothing one is able to wear that limits their style.

From personal experience when it rains, my parents always encourage me to wear a hoodie, rather than a raincoat. This is a difficult choice for me because my raincoat matches with some of the pants I have. At my age, I also feel more comfortable wearing something I choose than something that a caregiver chose.

With adaptive clothing, many of the barriers in the dressing prices are eliminated and people can wear outfits that make them feel confident.

Having adaptive clothing of all types opens up a world of possibilities for people with disabilities. Different types of clothing are appropriate for different settings and occasions.

I have personally always struggled to find dresses of appropriate length for my wheelchair. I had a hard time finding a dress for my graduation this past June.

If there is not an expansion of adaptive fashion in the future I am concerned but I will not be able to find dresses to wear to work. With more adaptive formal wear, people with disabilities will be more prepared to participate in interviews and go to work.

Outfits play a role in an employer’s perception of potential job candidates. Therefore, having adaptive clothes can go a long way in creating opportunities for people with disabilities.

Brands such as Tommy Hilfiger and Nike are creating and expanding adaptive fashion lines. This expansion is helping people of all abilities feel confident and beautiful no matter what they wear.

Disability should not limit individuals.

As Robert Hazel said: “There is no greater disability in society than the inability to see a person as more.”

Classic Never Goes Out of Style

By Ivana Grandic

Ever since I was a young girl, I have been influenced by the style and creativity of the people in my life. Whether it was through my mother’s sophisticated business attire or my aunt’s lavish couture appearance, I always admired the way they express themselves. As I grew older, I knew I wanted to establish my own sense of style to best portray my personality. While I have gone through many phases throughout the years, I finally have felt comfortable enough to be in my own skin. When wondering how I would describe my style, I have to say it is sophisticated and classy, but casual. I have an assortment of blouses, corsets, and blazers that I love pairing with various high-waisted jeans, slacks, or skirts. To me, I feel the most confident when it comes to wearing a bold color such as red that makes a statement or any shoe with a block heel. With this, I learned what my favorite shops were that fit exactly what I want in representing myself. This ranges from stores such as Brandy Melville, Zara, PrettyLittleThing, and Urban Outfitters. Each store allows me to express myself through an assortment of clothing and in a variety of ways. Whether it is Brandy Melville’s delicate oversized sweaters, Zara’s intricate blazers, or Urban Outfitters fitted corduroy jeans, I have different styles I can tap into. All of these factors reveal my personality because I consider myself an extrovert who is very personable and polished. I find enjoyment in creating a ‘character’ for a day that allows me to feel I can embrace all different parts of who I am. This type of mentality I have is from following other fashion designers who have made their mark in the industry through experimenting with clothing. To be specific, I admire designers such as Gucci, Virgil Abloh, and Christian Dior for breaking barriers through their innovative techniques. Starting off with Gucci, I absolutely adore how they use bold colors to create knitted silhouette dresses. It provides a sleek, but proper look that makes someone stand out from the crowd. Personally, I am a huge fan of Gucci’s

iconic GG belt and monogram crossbody bags because they are great accessories that can add to any outfit. As for Virgil Abloh, I am in awe of his way of defying the traditional view of ‘street style’ by creating something radical and subversive. With his creation of the brand ‘Off White’, he experiments against the classic silhouette in designs and embraces being the ‘grey area’ in fashion. The brushed painted label can be seen from a mile away and makes everyone stop and stare with its large print. Now, Christian Dior made me fall in love with the feminine and preppy side of dresses. Executing the dresses with a cinched waist, bows and creating a princess aesthetic, made me feel I was in a real-life fairytale. He created an allure of couture and class with a sense of delicacy that I appreciate deeply. Finally, it has been an exciting journey experiencing different styles throughout the years and finding the style and stores that best suit me. I find pleasure in creating different aesthetics and sharing them with others so they can be inspired and motivated to be their true selves. As time goes by, I find that fashion continuously changes and so does our perception of ourselves. What one may once find trendy, can now feel dull. Some colors may have once made you feel confident and lavish, but now seem too eccentric. Life, fashion, and perspectives change and it happens to the best of us. It is all about making our mark within our own identities and creating a newfound territory that we love and adore. While I feel very pleased with the way I portray myself through my fashion choices, I am excited to see what innovative styles and trends designers bring to the table. Who knows? I may end up adding a new thing or two into my wardrobe that I would have never possibly imagined. Only time will tell.