Homecoming: Vol. 2 Issue 2

HOMECOMING VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 2

01

02 02

Photographer: Abbi Roane Models: Aubrey Matson, Katie Lantigua, Kristen Phillips, Lauren Erolani, Madison Corley, Maggie Winston, Zoie Bodden

EXECUTIVE BOARD

TAYLOR LAMMI

MARY TRANTHAM

MADISON QUINN

HALEY NOBLE

CECI VAIL

ABBI ROANE

CO-PRESIDENT

CO-PRESIDENT

LIFESTYLE & FEATURES EDITOR

DANA DANG DESIGN CHIEF

FASHION & BEAUTY EDITOR

MADELYN OKRUHLIK

ONLINE EDITOR & DESIGN CHIEF ASSISTANT

03

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

PHOTOGRAPHY CHIEF

BETH BAUMLER PUBLIC RELATIONS CHIEF

TEAMS WRITING TEAM Aubrey Matson Ceci Vail Grace Bercher Grace Kauderer Gretchen Evans Haley Noble Katie Clardy Larissa Villegas Madison Quinn McKenna Madis

SHELBY MUEHLSTEIN MADISON CORLEY VIDEOGRAPHY CHIEF

RECRUITMENT CHIEF

PHOTOGRAPHY TEAM Abbi Roane Ally Lain Angel Frando August Nennman (Photography Chief Assistant) Becca Cook Cullen Powitzky Esha Uddaraju Flora Patteson Olivia Garza Savannah Patterson Sophia Howard Stephanie Carrillo

SOCIAL MEDIA TEAM LINDSEY ROGERS DIGITAL STORY CONTENT CHIEF

KRISTEN PHILLIPS DIGTAL MEDIA CHIEF

Ferrell Tugman Kayla Rudy Lauren Ercolani Kristen Phillips Lindsey Rogers London Marchman Mackenzie Davis Marilyn Espinoza

DESIGN TEAM

Anna Keller Annette Guerra-Armendariz Dana Dang Jade Sung Josh Carley Lili Sullivan Madelyn Okruhlik

VIDEOGRAPHY TEAM CASSIDY SCHIPPEL BREANNA GAMBLE EVENT CHIEF

TREASURER

04

Haley Cox Shelby Muehlstein

EVENT TEAM Cassidy Schippel Jordan Williams Madison Betts Molly Tinkle

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dear reader, This year has been nothing short of a triumphant return: to routine, normalcy, and life as we knew it. We’ve watched the pioneers of medicine reopen the world and give us a true sense of stability for the first time in over a year. While we started 2021 finding our footing and finding comfort in community, we’ve grown far past uneasy beginnings.

Baby steps away from home have turned into long strides, and exploring the unknown has never felt so good. But as we wrap up this monumental year and another successful semester, one universal truth rings loud and clear: no matter how far you run, you can always go home—to the small towns that built us, family trees that raised us, and stereotypes that shaped us. The thrill of the unknown will never beat familiarity. You know what you’re getting into because you’ve been there before.

Homecoming is about looking in the nooks and crannies of small-town America and seeing what they’re truly made of. Just like with anything, there are positive and negative aspects. From gossip mills running rampant (p. 13-16) and gender stereotypes prevailing (p. 27-30) to bigger-than-life traditions (p. 31-34) and hometown life standing the test of time (p. 41-44), we have it all. The creation of this print issue has been a blessing from start to finish. Entering my first semester as editor in chief was daunting, to say the least, but creating an issue centered around something so tangible made my job a little easier. We made this print issue to show that while there are things to keep in mind, there’s nothing to run from in small towns. There’s an unspoken beauty in growing where you’re planted. This edition is dedicated to those that have never left and those who have yet to return.

Though different in chosen life paths, we all started together in the same place: home.

To finding your way back home,

Madison Quinn Editor-in-Chief

05

LETTER FROM THE DESIGN CHIEF Dear reader, Expressing my creativity through the digital medium has been a fulfilling learning process for me, and this print issue challenged my digital art skills and expanded the bounds of my creativity. For me, it has been an unforgettable experience, and I hope that everyone that gets to hold Homecoming in their hands can see and feel the love and dedication put into this print issue.

The design team and I hope that our work radiates what true collaborative creativity is. We also hope it serves as an inspiration to those around us to express themselves unapologetically. Our design team is filled with passion and talent, and they have worked hard in embracing the brand’s new direction towards a more editorial style. They have been receptive, enthusiastic, and eager to learn and test their abilities.

All their efforts have not gone unnoticed.

Thank you to everyone that made this artistic growth and opportunity possible. I am sad to be leaving after this semester but from afar, I hope to see this organization flourish and break the bounds of creativity.

With lots of love,

Dana Dang Design Chief

06

IN

Photographer: Sophia Howard Model: Josh Carley

07

THIS ISSUE WESTERN EXPANSION.............................11-12 YOU DIDN’T HEAR THIS FROM ME......13-16 THE PARTON EFFECT..............................17-20 BEAUTY QUEEN SECRETS......................23-26 EMOTIONS HAVE NO GENDER..............27-30 BIGGER IN TEXAS......................................31-34 COWBOY COUTURE...................................37-40 HERE TO STAY............................................41-44

08

FULL PAGE SPREAD

09

10

Photographer: Ally Lain Model: Madison Corley

We s

t

n r e

11

E x p a n s i o n

A

merica is a nation of small towns—intertwined and forever connected. Many people decide to raise their families in these tight-knit areas due to the comfort level, familiarity, and overall welcoming environment. However, after growing up within the confines of a small town, some decide to leave this bubble and venture out to new places. They might be leaving some things behind, but their wardrobe isn’t one of them. The pieces you reach for in your closet follow you wherever you go.

Fashion trends are highly concentrated in locations and quickly spread through a population. Each hometown has different things in style at any given time. One could witness a rise in the popularity of chunky booties, while another is experiencing a denim takeover. Certain clothing items or fashion styles can become popular in these places overnight, as people usually shop at the same local stores. Those looking to shop locally usually migrate to boutiques, as they’re more common in small towns than certain store chains. These trends can become stagnant, but it only takes one person leaving to bring their hometown styles to the big city.

But what impact does this have? People are highly influenced by— and tend to adopt things from—the people around them. Style is no exception. Moving to a highly populated town means exposing residents to a new fashion sense. Ruffles may be a foreign concept to someone, or maybe they have only seen cowboy boots in movies. Learning about these trends from someone new may inspire them to buy some for themselves. As popular small-town trends move in, more people add these styles to their wardrobes and contribute to their rise to fame. No matter where you go, you could be inspiring others and sparking a fire that will spread.

You have the power to share your fashion sense with the world. On the other hand, you can also get inspired by others’ hometown fashion.

Many fashion trends have followed this pattern of expansion and grown in popularity in big cities recently. For example, there has been a rise in dressing high fashion clothing items with fringe as the perfect addition.

It has moved so far up that many celebrities are rocking fringe on jackets and glam dresses, like Blake Lively and Dakota Fanning. Fashion trends spread like wildfire, and people bringing their hometown fashion with them only accelerates the spread. You might not feel capable of expanding a trend, but it only takes one person getting inspired.

Writer: Grace Kauderer Photographer: Stephanie Carillo Designer: Jade Sung Models: Alacia Sauser & Taylor Lammi

12

YOU DIDN’T HEAR THIS FROM ME

I

magine walking into a salon full of busy hairdressers and middle-aged women who have never gotten a hairdo anywhere else in their entire lives. Salon chairs lined up, surrounded by hair tools and bowls of dye, the air thick with the scent of hairspray and bleach. The women sit and chat with their stylists and one another.

It may seem like a relatively average scene to most, but it has a different meaning in those small-town salons. All the patrons have grown up together. They are all too familiar with each other's families and friends. Their children attend school together, and they all see each other at church on Sundays. These connections create what many know salons to be: a hotbed for gossip.

13

People know who is getting a divorce, which housewife may be battling a drinking problem, and whose son or daughter snuck out last night to go to a party. This lack of privacy can be damaging to relationships and self-esteem and encourage secrecy.

This cliche has become a known fact to all who live in places like these. It can be perpetuated as a stereotype in movies but is often a staple in the south. While this kind of deep gossip is not specific to hair salons, it is usually a guarantee that you will hear secrets or canards about someone you know there.

What makes this small town gossip particularly harmful is that it often focuses on young people.

Although it takes a certain kind of first-hand experience to understand this dynamic, you can picture how much it could hurt a teenager to have people twice their age talk and spread lies about them. Imagine having to fear that every mistake you make will be blasted across town or having to be extra careful about who you trust out of fear that the people you call your friends may let that information get into the wrong hands. Trying to get through high school can be challenging enough, but having the eyes of everyone in town can make it downright unbearable.

The growing period, when you’re stuck between childhood and adulthood, is beyond difficult.

You’re trying to figure out who you are and who you want to be. So many paths lie in front of you, and the weight of choosing rests on your shoulders. When a direction is chosen, and it isn't up to society's standards, gossip ensues. Take a high school graduate who decided it was better to begin working instead of attending college.

Though going straight into the workforce might be an easy choice as it's in their best interest, it can be nearly impossible to deal with the gossip that follows. People traditionally look down on this choice because it isn't seen as the right next step. Everyone is making assumptions about other people and encouraging others to jump to their own conclusions. It can feel like everyone is talking about your life, and, most of the time, they are.

Sometimes, the people who gossip can mask their nosiness with concern and act like they’re checking up on you. This deceit is common in small towns because the people spreading rumors have probably known the subjects of their gossip since they were babies and can try to come off as a caring older figure.

14

This dangerous cycle can be detrimental to mental health and how people continue to go about their lives. If you knew everyone would hear about the decisions you make, you would think twice before deciding anything. It can lead to that little voice in your head constantly wondering what people will think. Often, that voice stays with you for the rest of your life.

For this reason, small towns can create societal pressure for young people. They may not do what is best for them because of outside opinions. It creates problems in their relationships, futures, career choices, and usually causes them to move away to escape it all. And while this gossiping problem is often just accepted as the way things are, it can cause lasting damage and should be looked at from a new angle. Being wrapped up in the life of someone is only going to harm the one gossiping as well.

Perhaps we need to look this problem in the eye and decide to be done with it. It causes more harm than good every single time. And while those small towns use the excuse that everyone here knows everyone and people seem to believe that to be a good thing, they could decide to believe in a level of respect for privacy instead. Most people don’t dream of living somewhere where their neighbors know every detail of their lives. Do you?

So, for the women in small-town hair salons everywhere, it’s probably best to stick to talking about the weather from now on.

Writer: Haley Noble Photographer: Savannah Patterson Designer: Dana Dang Models: Aubrey Matson, Emma Trueba, & Jessica Le

15

16

17

“It’s hard to be a diamond in a rhinestone world.” Perfectly encapsulated by the queen of country herself, this quote by Dolly Parton not only rings true of the world and its realities, but the world of fashion as well. Finding a diamond in the rough in the whimsical world of fashion and design is challenging, to say the least. Only a few can say they have truly become a trendsetter. While many create, which creations will be foundational in years to come?

X and Kacey Musgraves for implementing this aesthetic into current fashion; however, its roots can be traced much further back. We’re taking this back to the ’70s with the rise of country icon Dolly Parton. The original queen of country is known for her specific style and is perhaps even the originator of these flashy western elements. Whether it be a dazzling fringe of glittering rhinestones or boots that can be seen from miles away, Parton is the original inspiration for this dreamy, disco cowgirl look.

Here in 2021, we are now deep into a fashion renaissance. We are past the dark ages of Tumblr and “scene” aesthetic looks that dominated the 2000s and early 2010s; new is mixing with the old in many different formats. We see the return of the ’70s with the reemergence of platform boots and flared bottoms, and the ’80s are returning for an encore by gracing the runway with pieces in shockingly vibrant colors. However, there is a new and unexpected trend on the horizon.

Parton has been championing this look for quite some time, with her road to stardom starting in the late ’60s. And we might note, she has been dressing like a human diamond since the beginning of her career. Parton has seamlessly mixed disco features of the ’70s with extravagant western elements, generating a multifaceted look that ties together two opposite ends of the fashion world. This mix is a fashion Venn diagram that would not exist had it not been for Dolly.

If we immerse ourselves in the jungle of today’s pop culture, we are probably all familiar with music festival and award show fashion. Similar to the MET Gala, we are all ecstatic to see what our favorite personalities will be wearing.

So, what have we been seeing? Right now, a new trend is forming right before our eyes. A general theme of glitter and bright colors, yes, but something more specific: western fashion.

No, this is not what we see at the rodeo, but more a sort of disco cowboy. This cowboy look is accentuated by glitter fringe jackets, cow print, thigh-high western boots in every color, and of course, a bedazzled cowboy hat.

Many credit top-tier celebrities such as Lil Nas

Today, we see the essence of this style on virtually every red carpet and stage; revivalists from numerous corners of celebrity life are bringing this look to life once more, decades after its establishment. As mentioned prior, Lil Nas X has been a frequenter of Dolly’s disco glamour with numerous western glam looks under their belts. Lil Nas X has created spectacles in the past, namely his neon pink head-to-toe Versace outfit, complete with a matching cowboy hat, western boots, and an audacious amount of rhinestones at the 2020 Grammy Awards. And to boot, this is not limited to the hip hop sensation: other names

18

that have carried on Parton’s glamour include Beyoncé, Post Malone, and Miley Cyrus.

It seems we are just now understanding the magnitude of Dolly’s vision, reflected in a grandiose explosion of glitter and fringe.

So yes, it is strenuous to be a diamond in the rough in today’s fashion climate, but Dolly Parton has been able to not only pull it off effortlessly but also pave the way for numerous generations reflected across countless circles.

It proves that innovation in the industry often does not go directly from designer to runway, but from an outside pioneer. Now you know that the next you try to attain that disco-inthe-wild-west look, you’ve been struck by the Parton effect.

This trend is without a doubt not limited to high society. How else would we explain the wide availability of cow-printed apparel and western boots at your everyday boutique?

This accessibility doesn’t even include outlets specifically for festival attire, able to singlehandedly take care of all your thigh-high chap, flashy boot, and glitzy cowboy hat needs. At any name-brand shop, it is a guarantee you can find some combination of razzle-dazzle and country. Parton’s legacy is very much alive across nearly all cliques of fashion.

Writer: Aubrey Matson Photographer: Becca Cook Designer: Annette Guerra-Armendariz Model: Maggie Winston

19

20

Photographer: Esha Uddaraju Models: Sophia Doran & Stephanie Carrillo

21

22 22

s et r sec

n e e u Q y ut Bea

23

W

hen you call big, voluminous hair and effortlessly glamorous makeup into question, all eyes turn to the southern belles, debutant darlings, and pageant queens who know them best. They have spent countless hours in front of the mirror, practicing their hair, learning new makeup techniques, and testing out an array of products. Small, southern towns would not be complete without their philosophy of stepping out of the house with your best face forward and making sure you look presentable from head to toe. The real beauty is knowing that all these tips and tricks can be recreated with products from local, small stores for a fraction of the price. Luckily, we are here to let you in on our best-kept beauty secrets.

Achieving the iconic full-hair look is all about rollers and hairspray that turn even the thinnest hair into a whole new shape. The technique focuses on curling away from the face and around the crown of the head.

When grabbing sections, make sure the strands are not too thick so the curl will hold, and you will not end up with a half-hearted ringlet. With hot rollers, wait until they are completely cooled down and add hairspray before removing them. If using regular velcro rollers, leave them in for your desired amount of time and add hairspray again before releasing the curls. Finish the hairdo by flipping your head upside down and shaking the curls out, then voila!

Even if this look is not your style, a good hairspray can hold your hair for hours longer—no matter what your favorite look may be.

Maybe it’s the jitters that come before a first date with the next-door neighbor or the butterflies you feel before going to homecoming with your crush. Either way, knowing your lip look will last all night should be the least of your worries.

First, lining the lips gives you the flexibility to create a more or less plump pout, and a darker shade from the lip color will provide contrast to make your lips pop. Darker shades also make teeth look whiter and brighter, so keep that in mind.

PRO TIP: Lip stains will stay on longer than any lipstick.

The finishing touch is a gloss on top for a light-catching shine. Avoid worrying about your lip color off on your teeth by grabbing a jar of Vaseline. Pageant professionals rub a little on their teeth to prevent any products from sticking.

24

The biggest secret is that the product itself is not the main focus: but rather the application. If you don’t have a Sephora within reach, don’t fret. Small town stores such as Sally’s Beauty, Walmart, or the local grocery store have affordable alternatives. Big-name beauty brands hold their prestige for a reason, but many drugstore dupes work just as well, if not better. Some beauty queens come from small towns and rural upbringings, so they’re experts on going from grit to glam in a matter of steps.

When priming before foundation is applied, the Smashbox Photo Finish Primer is well-known, but NYX Studio Perfect Primer provides the same matte, poreless base. For an even easier find, some beauty queens swear by men’s aftershave for primer because of the glycerin in it! Staying bronzed and sunkissed with a warm shade along the jawline not only helps shape the face but gives an overall glow and lively complexion. The Becca Sunlit Bronzer has met its match with the drugstore product Butter Bronzer by Physicians Formula. A big pageant smile is half due to a glittering grin and half due to the rosy apple cheeks achieved by a perfect shade of pink blush. Nars has their iconic blush in the shade Orgasm, but Milani Baked Blush has multiple shades that give them a run for their money.

A good setting powder is crucial to protect the finished makeup look, so reach for the Maybelline Fit Me Loose Powder—a clever alternative to the Laura Mercier Loose Powder.

After the homecoming dance ends and the pageant queen takes her final walk, the makeup must eventually come off. Coconut oil is known to work wonders as a natural and sensitive choice over traditional makeup wipes and chemicalheavy products. Keep that jar of Vaseline close to remove layers of mascara that regular makeup wipes miss. The ageless illusion many beauty queens have mastered is the result of a dedicated moisturizing routine. Cleansing the face each night and letting your skin breathe will keep you looking and feeling youthful. Taking care of your skin after wearing makeup is essential to keeping your face clean and ready for whatever the next look holds.

Whether you live in a small town or big city, try these techniques and dupes next time you are getting ready and want to look like pageant material.

Writer: Grace Bercher Photographer: August Nennmann Designer: Lili Sullivan Models: Frida Guzman, Jo Unger, Touluwalase Agboola, Victoria Hinojos Larrazolo

25

26

”

A “ ct L

L a a d e y k i

Emotions have no Gender.

27

U

nsurprisingly, there was a time when a woman’s only job was to cook and clean. Back when the world measured her value by the success of her husband and the happiness of her marriage. Over the decades, we’ve watched women go from shadows in the kitchen to breadwinners and change-makers. Yet one thing has remained the same: to “act like a lady” typically means to not act like a person at all.

There’s the underlying belief that being ladylike means being everyone’s cheerleader, but your own. An advocate for all except yourself. The ideal woman by that definition? “A poised woman with her emotions in check and her agenda always free to take care of those around her,” says Texas A&M student Taylor Lammi.

Out of all survey respondents, 86.5% expressed that “act like a lady” has a negative connotation, and 100% agreed that angry and opinionated women are negatively portrayed. We’ve all heard the phrase and watched women step outside of its definition just to be ridiculed because of it.

But those that judge were raised to let conversations pass them by—to cross their ankles, bite their lip, and smile even when smiling felt impossible. Times have changed and what it means to be a woman has too. Empty smiles have turned to frowns, disagreements have become verbal objections, and anger is no longer buried beneath the surface. Women are bolder and more authentic than ever. So why use an outdated metric to measure the worth of the women of today? Better yet, why must we measure it at all? There are bigger things to focus on than acting the way you identify.

Overwhelmingly, the most common response when asked for a new definition of “act like a lady” was quite simple: nothing. There shouldn’t be a phrase nor definition of what it means to be a woman. Those that decided to rewrite the meaning were all on the same page too. All agreed that people should be free to express themselves and their emotions how they please, as long as they respect others in the process. “I think it should mean to stick up for yourself and others and to show kindness when doing so,” says Tara Wunderlich.

“Additionally, I think it should mean to go after what you want. Most importantly, it should mean to be yourself.”

The time of the unwillingly docile woman is over. Small-minded definitions are no longer applicable. Polite doesn’t mean submissive, and kindness doesn’t mean complacency. “Acting like a lady” means more now than a single definition could ever encapsulate. This article is an open invitation to all to embrace every emotion—big or small—and feel it as it is, without reducing it to what it should be.

28

The world as this generation knows it has always emphasized the rigid dichotomy between masculinity and femininity. These labels are presented in a multitude of ways, but they all serve to answer the same question: is it for boys or girls? Clothes are an obvious example, colors a close second.

But what about emotions? The idea that boys and girls have different sets of emotions is not only wrong but extremely dangerous.

Small towns tend to have smaller-minded definitions of what it means to be a man—or a woman, for that matter. They often reinforce the idea that men are sturdy, unmoving feats, while women are supporting characters.

Gender stereotypes are taught to us the same way everything is: by watching the people we grow up with and consuming the media that surrounds us.

Boys learn what it means to “be a man” by copying the men in their lives and taking note of society’s reaction to their behavior. They observe what happens when they cry, stand in the background, or admit their fears: the world tells them to “be a man.”

In a privately conducted survey, 86.5% of respondents voted that the phrase “be a man” has a negative connotation. According to Leslie Mondagron, a political science major at Texas A&M, “it reinforces the idea that a man has to act a certain way.” It’s limiting in its definition of what it means to be a man and conforms to the idea that men can’t have emotions. “Anything involving emotions is associated with weakness (and) as a man you shouldn’t be weak,” commented Markus Bernal. By placing men in a box with no room for growth, we’re building a society of toxic masculinity and repression.

If we’re going to define masculinity, we need to transition away from using emotions as the baseline to values. Rather than being impenetrable, brave, and static, how about being respectful, honorable, and dignified? In a TED Talk, Joe Ehrmann states that “being a man” should be about building relationships and having a commitment to a cause during your lifetime.

By removing the walls built around men and their emotions, we give them room to become the best version of themselves.

With 97.3% of those who took the survey saying that emotional and sensitive men are portrayed negatively, it’s clear that we still have a long way to go in showing that emotions have no gender. Sadness is not feminine, and anger is not masculine. The vast spectrum of emotions is not only natural but crucial to what it means to be human.

Writer: Madison Quinn Photographer: Angel Frando Designer: Josh Carley Models: Becca Cook & Josh Carley

29

“Be a man”

30

31

32

T

exas. This southern state is known for its boastful demeanor and doing things bigger, and, in Texans’ eyes, better than anyone else. The total area of Texas is twice the size of Germany and could be self-sufficient economically if this state were ever to secede—as some Texans like to claim will happen. Rich traditions and the winning mentality are deeply rooted in Texans. Take Friday Night Lights, for example. High school football is no longer just a sport in this state—it’s an event that calls for stadiums and jumbotrons larger than some university venues. The traditions attached to throwing some pigskin are just as grand.

Every average American football game has cheerleaders, a band that performs at halftime, and a star quarterback expected to play like Tom Brady. Colorguard in any other state provides a satisfactory performance as an ideal partnership with the band. They wave their flags proudly and dance to the beat of the music. Texas takes this dynamic a step further with a dance and drill team. Elaborate routines, flashy rhinestone clothing, and exclusive military titles are all valuable features. They may sound intimidating in theory, but their routines are more than welcoming. They offer a precision style of dance, award-winning smiles, and dazzling pom-poms. To ensure perfect execution at every performance, drill team members practice just like any other sport. The hours of hard work pay off as some fans in the stands are solely there to watch the halftime performance.

Of course, other states may attempt to present their version of a drill team, but Texas outshines and outperforms its opponents in every aspect. Creators of this style of dance call Texas home. Today, more high schools have drill teams than universities, but the first drill team appeared at the collegiate level. The Kilgore College Rangerettes from Kilgore, Texas, is an exclusive, well-known collegiate drill team that travels nationwide to perform. They even go on world tours!

The more unique Texan football traditions come out when the season’s homecoming game rolls around. The sweltering heat is (hopefully) coming to a close, and students are whipping out their letterman jackets. Girls wear large floral centerpieces around their necks to complete this getup. These heavy necklaces, or corsages, are better known as mums. Bells, garland, ribbons, charms, trinkets, and stuffed animals, can all be attached to this floral arrangement.

33

Homecoming mums are the epitome of school spirit. They are the grand finale that can be seen and heard down every hallway, leaving a trail of glitter as they go. However, this extravagant display of homecoming affection wasn’t always so eyecatching. Texas can’t even claim ownership over this modern-day, highly-anticipated tradition.

The University of Missouri has alleged ownership of these floral roots. Suspected to start at a homecoming game in 1911, boys presented their dates with live flower corsages. Texas students caught wind of this idea and brought it down to their home state. These corsages were modest in size and a lovely compliment to their date’s outfit.

Nowadays, a homecoming mum is the outfit.

Mums are the Texas staple that is more important than promposals. True to the state’s personality, each grade level’s mum is bigger and better than the last. More recently, senior girls opt for an allwhite and silver mum to distinguish them from the rest of the school. Some seniors even parade homecoming mums that have programmed LED lights! Boys sport complementary garters. These are toned-down, miniature versions of the mums. The colors of the ribbons and trinkets often reflect the high school colors, mascot, and personal touches, like their class year, name, and respective sport methodically displayed. It is also common for parents or family members to give their child a mum. Friends exchange garters and mums in the same fashion. Homecoming mums are intended for everyone to celebrate and showcase during this amplified time of school pride.

The downside of this tradition? The price. Whether you’re getting creative with family members and making it yourself or outsourcing to professional mum makers, mums add up. On average, they cost anywhere from $30 to $150! The price is primarily dependent on size and accessories, but they rarely come cheaply. For those looking to save on homecoming mums, omitting flashy LED lights might do the trick. Craft stores like Hobby Lobby and Michaels are well-prepared for homecoming season in Texas, and a ribbon shortage rarely occurs. Don’t wait until the Thursday before the big game to start creating your mum, though, as they need an ample amount of time to put together and exchange.

While more traditions give Texas its fitting reputation, the importance of Friday night, high school football, and the signature homecoming game is a unique, whirlwind experience—especially for outsiders looking in. The next time someone mentions Texas football, think about a world-traveling, military-inspired dance team and gigantic floral arrangements. And remember, everything’s bigger in Texas.

34

Writer: Gretchen Evans Photographer: Olivia Garza Designer: Jade Sung Model: Larissa Villegas

EA DR

IG &B

NS

W

T

O

COUNTRY IS S I MA TH DE UP OF S M A L L

35

M

S.

36

Photographer: Sophia Howard Model: Samyam Pandey

37

T

he western style is permeating today’s culture and redefining the way society views southern charm. As Nashville meets old Hollywood, the country-style has been scattered across runways and found its way into the closets of A-list celebrities. With major artists making triumphant strides in pop culture, people are opening their eyes to the possibilities and creative expression that the western style offers. Today, the cowgirl has become the new It Girl.

Paying homage to the classic hometown styles, workwear pieces such as boots, hats, and denim have found themselves in some of the hottest looks. These items are not simply seasonal—they are here to stay. Diving deep into how traditional western pieces compliment modernistic and glamorous styles, let us reveal what happens when cowboy meets couture.

Free yourself from the monotony of stereotypical boots and use your footwear to make an audacious statement.

Neutral colors such as whites and beiges pair seamlessly with fall attire, ready for a day at the office or an afternoon coffee date. Shultz, a popular shoe and boot brand, took this trend and ran with it. In tune with their mission statement, Shultz produces sleek designs that boost any casual outfit. Their favored piece is a sandcolored snakeskin boot, offering a simple statement piece for any wardrobe. Designer Jeffrey Campbell has a stunning calf-hair boot to add a western touch to a contemporary look. But the possibilities aren’t simply black and white. Bold hues of pinks, silvers, and blues allow one to delve deeper into endless styling opportunities by embracing the potential that cowboy boots hold. Spice up a nightwear outfit with daring colors that elevate your attire from a hometown cowgirl to a city-bound star. Brands such as Dingo and Isabel THE SOUTHERN CROWN Marant put out saturated, colored boots intended to add a spark of excitement to your look as you make your Once only sported by big names in the country and way across the dance floor. And no, cowboy boots are bluegrass music industry, cowboy hats now qualify as no longer reserved just for two-stepping. Sport them on a must-have for every wardrobe. Celebrities aided in a night out and make an electric appearance at the bar bringing this headwear back into the limelight, such as with boots that demand attention. Step out onto the when Kendall Jenner iconically paired a cow print hat town boldly and bring a little western spark under the with her purple zebra print two-piece set. As she posed for a picture of her applying lip gloss in front of a mirror, lights of the city. pop culture and the fashion industry opened their minds to the lively accompaniment a cowboy hat adds to any outfit. With tons of different styles and colors to choose from, the cowboy hat pairs beautifully with any look for any occasion: parties, game days, or even a night out with your girls. Embellishing this accessory with light-catching gems, faux fur, and brand logos separates them from the stereotypical cowboy hat. Countless small businesses across Etsy make customizable hats, from rhinestones to animal print, allowing everyone to find the perfect cowboy hat for them. This western accessory now presents itself as a staple piece for every glam look you could dream up.

THESE BOOTS WERE MADE FOR MORE THAN WALKING For years, people saw cowboy boots as reserved for ranchers and country artists only. Yet, at the turn of 2021, cowboy boots are making waves in the world of fashion by introducing a touch of southern charm to modernistic glam styles. The classic western leather boots are being transformed into a multitude of designs.

38

DENIM: THE TREND THAT NEVER FADES Blue jeans are a principal piece for western wear, but the versatility and relatability of denim transcend across all styles and looks. The creation of blue jeans dates back to 1873, designed as the perfect western workwear pants.

Decades later, women took the reins and began wearing jeans. This piece of clothing has remained present in fashion ever since. Jeans are classic and timeless for a reason: there are endless styling combinations. Recently, people have been ditching their skinny jeans for new styles erupting on the fashion scene. Straight leg cuts and flared silhouettes allow individuals to take this southern American classic and rebrand them into more stylish looks. Pairing simple boot-cut jeans with your favorite blazer or printed top serves as a throwback to western days while seamlessly incorporating a new age of fashion.

One could even go as far as to get dyed jeans or bedazzle them with rhinestones to add a flirtatious twist on timeless denim. Believe it or not, the diversity of denim doesn’t stop there. Denim dresses, jackets, and tops add a bit of blue jean to your wardrobe. All give a subtle nod to the influence that denim has on American culture.

The influence of cowboy wear intertwining with contemporary pieces curates a new-age Americana style that anyone can enjoy, from the rural plains of western America to the urbanized big cities in the East.

Old-town-road-inspired articles, from boots to hats to fringed denim, add the charm of the south to a variety of collections and looks. Whether you’re home visiting family, out on the town, or under the big city lights, these looks are versatile and extravagant—an ode to vintage America and the small-town nostalgia that each person holds deep inside them.

ADD SOME FRINGE Get ready to giddy-up. Migrating from the west into the collections of modern fashion names such as Khaite, Topshop, and Anna Sui, we have the age of fringe. Notorious for embellishing western pieces such as jackets and boots, the fringe trend has transcended into dozens of different looks. The beauty of fringe is all in the details. Adding it to a simple, contemporary clothing piece or accessory gives it a western flair. Suede jackets, cocktail dresses, and even matching two-piece sets can come with fringe ornaments. Fringe is a delicate adornment that must be balanced well. Too much of it can be overwhelming, so adding a touch of it to an otherwise classic outfit is the best way to elevate a look.

While daring, tassels subtly and successfully add texture to any item, giving a southern sweetheart feel to a casual or nighttime look.

Writer: Katie Clardy Photographer: Cullen Powitzky Designer: Anna Keller Models: Ceci Vail & Mary Trantham

40

HERE TO

Home is where the heart is.

STAY 41

There is magnificent evolution that comes with feeling at home within yourself before anywhere else can become your happy place.

A

las, we have set the scene of small-town life stigma, the most iconic cowboy couture trends, the glamorization of westward expansion, and everything glitter, fringe, and in-between. Although many construe stereotypes have evolved around small towns, it’s not hard to admit that a part of us finds bittersweet comfort in the ambiance of our hometown. In the faultless words of Kacey Musgraves, ”you can take me out of the country, but you can’t take the country out of me.” At the end of the day, we’re all just dime store cowgirls. So much so that we may wonder what life would be like if we moved back and settled down there.

Scary to think about returning to your past and willingly making it your future?

For most, yes. Is it as bad as it’s made out to be? Absolutely not.

First, let’s paralyze the shameful gossip that follows a return from post-grad life or any other chapter that has come to an end.

42

You are not the first person to move back home, and you certainly won’t be the last. There is no reason to feel guilty for deciding to take some time and figure out life at home. If anything, it’s a mature one. Life in your 20’s—or any age—is demanding, complex, and downright tiring. It’s nerve-wracking trying to plan a successful life and nourish the one you’re currently living. None of the support or well-wishes from family and friends can amount to the feeling of the future, where real life begins, drawing closer every minute. Home is meant to be a safe space, a sanctuary, where your wellbeing and best interests are the top priority. Whether your motive is to save up money, be closer to loved ones, or plan your next creative venture, moving back home is not a catalyst for a failed life. Returning is a stepping stone to bigger and better things—regardless of what the local salon patrons have to say about it.

There is beauty in having the freedom to venture out and comfort in knowing that you can always find your way back home.

Someone great once said that you cannot grow within your comfort zone. Change is good, often exhilarating, and it’s the kind of self-transformation you feel in your soul. But when the adrenaline runs out and you’re back at square one, where do you go? Back to what you know. Home is where the heart is. For many people, this means family, friends you grew up with, and neighbors who, though they knew everything about you, also looked out for you. Sometimes your comfort zone is the solace of the hometown you grew up in or the company of those who raised you, and it’s okay to be content staying there. People often mistake comfort for complacency, but there’s nothing shameful about being fulfilled. There is magnificent evolution that comes with feeling at home within yourself before anywhere else can become your happy place. If not, your heart will always be aching for something more—a feeling of acceptance from an unfamiliar scene. Finding satisfaction in the small corners of your hometown should be celebrated, not belittled.

43

Our generation, now more than ever, has romanticized living in big cities. Shows like Gossip Girl and Emily in Paris have portrayed moving to a big city as the pinnacle of achievement and refinement.

The luxury, the nights out, and the rooms of opulence all sound ideal in theory, but they come with their own challenges.

Lifestyles like those can be impossible to maintain, and the illusion relies on appearances more than truth. On the other side of the lavish spectrum, settling down in a small town doesn’t have to mean settling. Many people return home after a few years away to begin their steady career, get married, and start a family. Those that have never left follow similar paths.

The simplicity of a small-town lifestyle is often what inspires people to do so; there is no longer an obligation to keep up with the Joneses. There are fewer expenses, the environment is often safer, and you’ll find more time for the things you love. But this white picket fence paradox is not the ideal life for some, and that’s valid. There is beauty in having the freedom to venture out and comfort in knowing that you can always find your way back home.

We all have distinct visions, preferences, and desires for our lives. Whether you decide to chase your dreams miles away from your small-town or you are here to stay, remember that there is room for growth and pursuing your passions. There is excellence in familiarity. There is reassurance in homecomings.

HOME Evolution.

Satisfaction.

Freedom.

“There is beauty in having the freedom to venture out and comfort in knowing that you can always find your way back home.”

44

Writer: Larissa Villegas Photographer: Flora Patterson Designer: Madelyn Okruhlik Model: London Marchman

45

46

Photographer: Abbi Roane Models: Aubrey Matson, Katie Lantigua, Kristen Phillips, Lauren Erolani, Madison Corley, Maggie Winston, Zoie Bodden

LETTER FROM THE CO-PRESIDENT Dear reader, My name is Mary Trantham, and I am one of the new CoPresidents of A-Line Magazine. As the Co-Founders branched out into the real world, they left major boots to fill. This new semester has encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and opened my eyes in the best way. Ever since I can recall, I’ve found myself in awe of enormous skyscrapers, twinkling skylines, and traffic lights reflecting off the pavement in big cities. While my younger self desired freedom and independence, I felt I had to leave home to acquire these luxuries. As a society, we are constantly searching for the next best thing, a feeling of excitement or the unknown. Yet, in seeking out these things in new places, we lose sight of our roots. To appreciate the new, we must acknowledge the old. The most important realization to make is that you can find magic in anything if you look closely enough. Once we shift our focus, we will start to see the beauty in the little things that encompass what a small town truly is.

Whether you were a pageant queen, a band geek, or a star football player, the role you played contributed to the identity of where you came from. As these stereotypes trickle into every conversation about small towns, it’s crucial to remember those who excelled beyond these labels while staying true to their hometowns. And, while you expand your horizons, we hope these pages have reminded you that, every once in a while, it is necessary to come back home.

With gratitude,

Mary Trantham Co-President

47

LETTER FROM THE CO-PRESIDENT Dear reader, I knew 2021 would hold many things, but I didn’t expect creating a physical magazine to be one of them. Nor did I anticipate helping run the process or the organization. One of the many things I love about Homecoming and A-Line is the opportunities created to step out of our comfort zone, all while being surrounded by a supportive community—something many people may or may not find in small-town living. The opportunity to take on such a big responsibility at a young age has given me a mixture of fear and exhilaration as I wondered if I could do this organization justice.

I’m sure many people experience a similar feeling when trying to live up to the standards our hometowns have placed on us.

For me, A-Line Magazine has become my home away from home: a community and outlet where I find myself feeling comforted. The foundation we’ve created has allowed us to design Homecoming and combine southern living with glitter tears.

Homecoming provides readers with a story of the ups and downs of the small town and how, in the end, you always find your way back home. I cannot express how proud I am of each member, and it is clear the amount of hard work and talent that has been poured into this magazine. I cannot wait to re-do this process all over again for another few years because, with so much change, A-Line will always be home.

Cheers to Homecoming,

Taylor Lammi Co-President

48

WHO WE ARE

49

In dreaming up the mission behind our organization, the intention was twofold: recognize the creative talent of the individual and fuel their capacity for greatness. Voila–enkindle the human spirit through self-expression and embolden all to excel beyond their social norms.

Allow us to explain: We envisioned each written work, curated photo, and skillfully crafted graphic to be a bold platform for our community of creators to shine. Our members are the new-generation artists that grace our digital day and age with contributions of modern relevance, leaving positive imprints on our college community. Our unique trait is the A-Line print issue, a tangible representation of us that defies online standards and relights the magic behind the magazines we cherished growing up. We understand the reality we live in: those brief, quiet moments amid our busy lives are priceless. Through an effortless scroll on your device, we hope to open the door to the relatable article you didn’t know you needed, advice on being productive during a pandemic, and, of course, style inspiration to bring out your inner trendsetter. A breath of fresh air in an ambiguous world, we are unified through the common interest of passion—a free kindling of the crafts that set our souls on fire.

Let’s get to creating, together.

Sincerely,

Dasom Lee Co-Founder

50

Photographer: Olivia Garza Model: Jorgia Fellhauer

WE’RE ONLINE. T H E A L I N E M AG .C O M