November 2016

Volume 49

Issue Issue 33

November 2016

MASTHEAD Daniel Nissim Editor–in–Chief

W27

A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR It is at this time that one of President John F. Kennedy’s most famous quotes seems especially relevant: “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.” While it may feel like the political process is something that is being done against us, we, the public, have a voice and a right to be heard. While this election might feel like defeat for many, it should be a call to action for all.

Jenny Kim Executive Editor Andrea Navarro Managing Editor Kayla Renshaw Treasurer

EDITORS Kayla Renshaw Meghan Kane

As college students, it is easy to get caught up with school work and friends – not focusing on the political picture. Now, more than ever, you should take the time to learn the issues, work out your own opinions and do something about it. I won’t lay down some “we are the future” shtick. But, you know, I guess technically, we are the future.

ART Rose-Ann Reynolds Art Director Valerie Gutierrez Joyce Xu Erin Rouse Henry Barrow Designers

CONTRIBUTORS Cameron Heaney Tabitha Sloane Rohini Mikkelsen Luiza Teixeira Erin Taylor Samantha Nichols Morgan Court Sarah Fielding Taylor Koontz Lau Cheuk-In (Cherry) Sophia Ostapenko Christina Santos Thais Derjangocyan Andy Mitchell Nermeen Ileiwat Carmen Li Anil Singh Professor John Simone Editorial Faculty Advisor

While this election did not turn out the way many had hoped, and even anticipated, its results should not be a cause for fear. Fear is largely responsible for this turn of events: fear of our neighbors, fear from terrorism, fear of economic strife and fear of the unknown. It is at this time that we must hold on to hope, for hope will help bring our great country out of its internal struggle.

There have been thousands of protesters contesting Donald Trump’s election as president in cities all across the country. I have never seen such a passion for politics. As we continue to work through the issues that divide us, we cannot let that passion turn into hate. There was certainly a lot of hate involved in the campaign process, but it is time for us to find a way forward.

Over the coming months, W27 will take the time to discuss the issues. We are going to be fair and balanced, and will do our best to represent both sides. We’d like to get your input, so please send your thoughts to w27_newspaper@ fitnyc.edu with the subject heading “Student Opinion.”

Let me leave you with another inspirational quote from a hero of mine, Jor-El, Superman’s father.

“The symbol of the House of El means hope. Embodied within that hope is the fundamental belief in the potential of every person to be a force for good.”

Cheers,

Daniel Nissim Editor–in–Chief

Professor Albert Romano Advertising Advisor

ON THE COVER: W27 Newspaper Cover art by Natalie Horvath Photos taken by Heather Leigh Cullum

@W27 Newspaper

(www.heatherleighcullum.com) @W27 Newspaper

www.w27newspaper.org www.issuu.com/w27newspaper

FIT

NOVEMBER 2016

contents ON THE BLOCK

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Family Weekend & Legacy Week / How an FIT Alum Became a Senior Editor at InStyle

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Student Spotlight: Jade Lee

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FIT Women’s Tennis Team Dominates at Nationals / Fall 2016 Job and Internship Fair

Times They Are A Changin’: Bob Dylan 20 The Becomes the First Musician to Win Nobel Prize

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The Look for Less: Thrifting in NYC

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Kenzo x H&M: Perfect Timing / Change for All women. All sizes. All ages. All races.

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Fashion Design Books Set to Close in MidNovember / The "Alan Turing Law"

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Vegan Cafeteria Expose / FIT Collegiate DECA

8

Jay and Patty Baker School of Business & Technology Looks Toward the Future

HAUTE CULTURE

9

The New Standard of Perfection / Abercrombie & Fitch and Realistic Models

24 Concert Review: LANY

DEAR INDUSTRY

10

Easy, Breezy, Beautiful…Cover Boy

12

The Perks of Being a Vegan

26 Doctor Strange: Science Meets Magic THE GALLERY

13

Made By Google Pop-Up Shop Takes NYC

14

W27 Staff Thanksgiving

27 The Gallery HOFIT

BEAUTY BUZZ

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& Nitro Ice Cream / Dining at Ninja 25 Rolled New York

The Best Foundations Under $10 / The Risks of Sharing Makeup

FEATURES

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Balmain’s Creative Director at the MET

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From Design to Print: An Interview with Natalie Horvath

28 Humans of FIT MONTH IN REVIEW It Will Take To Make America Great 29 What Again

FIT SPEAKS

30

Not Fall-ing for the City

31

Thanksgiving for International Students

STYLE ON 27 W27 is PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER. PLEASE RECYCLE AFTER READING. A FIT STUDENT ASSOCIATION PUBLICATION.

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Winter's Coming

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ON THE BLOCK

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Family Weekend & Legacy Week

BY CAMERON HEANEY The week of Oct. 24 was quite eventful on the FIT campus.

With the 5th annual Legacy Week activities along with Family Weekend, the school was buzzing with spirit and excitement. Throughout the week, students enjoyed events hosted by the FIT Student Government Association, Residential Life, Student Life and several other campus organizations.

Laugh FIT, hosted by the FIT Student Government Association, was a huge hit among students. Comedian Matt Bellassai of “Whine About It” had students, faculty and staff cracking up at his quirky humor and comedic, yet relatable, outlook on life. Student Will Hasbrouck stated that he “wasn’t too familiar with Bellassai before the show, but couldn’t stop laughing the whole time.”

Another highlight that week was #ChalkFIT. This event allowed art students to showcase their skills by using chalk to draw and make designs on the FIT buildings on Seventh Avenue between 27th and 28th street. The artwork was appreciated not only by members of the FIT community, but by those who passed by on Seventh Avenue as well as the families who visited during Family Weekend.

The first day of Family Weekend began with breakfast and a welcome from President Brown. This was followed by a street fair, an alumni panel and a tour of the FIT Museum exhibition, “Proust's Muse, The Countess Greffulhe.” The day ended with a double-decker bus tour at sunset. On Sunday, families and students were offered breakfast-to-go as everyone said their goodbyes, trying their very best to stifle their tears.

Student Shannon Sforza enjoyed the weekend with her parents who came from upstate New York. Her family “had a lot of fun, especially with the caricatures and all the carnival-themed food,” which was offered at the street fair on campus.

Freshman Emma Norlin had a different experience during Family Weekend. Because she’s from California, she doesn’t get to see her family often. However, her older sister came to celebrate the weekend and explore NYC. The pair enjoyed the graband-go breakfast offered in the Dubinsky building before heading out on an adventure for the day.

ELIZABETH DONOHUE AND MARISSA GREEN PHOTO COURTESY: MARISSA GREEN

EMMA NORLIN AND HER SISTER PHOTO COURTESY: EMMA NORLIN

All in all, it was another successful Legacy Week and Family. Be sure to mark your calendar’s for next year’s festivities.

STUDENTS WITH COMEDIAN MATT BELLASSAI PHOTO COURTESY: WILL HASBROUCK

At a small event held by the PRSSA club at Lord & Taylor, Jennifer Ferrise, senior editor at InStyle, gave advice to FIT students on how to be successful.

“The reason you go to FIT is for the internships,” said Ferrise, who graduated 5 years ago. With no retail experience, Ferrise joined the merchandising society in her first semester, participated in work study and worked in the Style Shop.

Unfortunately, this ended up having the opposite effect, earning her a scolding from her boss. She did, however, learn a valuable lesson: “It’s not always about doing things the fastest, but doing it right,”Ferrise explained.

Ferrise is currently the Senior Editor of InStyle’s feature section. “I only pitch the things I’m really passionate about,” and she has the power to only pick stories she would personally read.

Having started out as a reader of the publication has proved instrumental because it helps her look at the features through a reader's eyes when establishing which ones make the cut.

During her second semester, Ferrise landed an internship at Glamour in the fashion department. She stayed a semester for credit and another for a stipend. After doing another fashion internship at W Magazine, Ferrise only had positive Ferrise knew she wanted to be things to say about FIT and a writer. her experience as a student here. And with only five years After graduating from FIT, between coming from Ohio Ferrise took an internship as with no retail experience and the editor-in-chief's assistant becoming a senior editor at at InStyle. There, she learned InStyle, it is easy to see why. a major life lesson. “I think it’s important to own up when you make a mistake,” said Ferrise. As an intern, she had to put together research files to prep her boss for the day and pool recent articles on people he would be meeting.

In an attempt to make a good impression, Ferrise rushed and tried to get the research done as fast as possible.

“The reason you go to FIT is for the internships”

HOW AN FIT ALUM BECAME A SENIOR EDITOR AT INSTYLE

BY SAMANTHA NICHOLS

PHOTO COURTESY: SAMANTHA NICHOLS

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Student Spotlight: Jade Lee

A YOUNG DESIGNER’S PATH TO A PERSONAL FASHION COLLECTION

BY SOPHIA OSTAPENKO

Many students who come to FIT dream of making it big in the fashion industry. From Calvin Klein to Ken Downing and Nina Garcia to Carolina Herrera, FIT has produced some of the most well-known and talented figures in their respective fields. This has left some pretty big shoes to fill. Jade Lee, 29, is a designer and current student at FIT, and she is trying to do just that. Lee has already showcased her collection on runways across the world and is widely recognized. Attending FIT has given Lee the chance to expand her knowledge of fabrics and receive valuable feedback on her work. And through hard work and dedication, she is well on her way to accomplishing her dream.

Lee has always been interested in fashion design and has worked for various fashion companies such as Oscar de La Renta, Brandon Sun, Diane von Furstenberg and Prabal Gurung. Next semester, she plans to work for Proenza Schouler. In 2012, SHEI Magazine contacted Lee to create garments that would later be seen in the publication. Eventually, the garments were incorporated into a collection called “Conceptual Work Since 2012,” which have been featured in three fashion shows: Elements of Style, Noire and The Bronze Elegance Fashion Show. Lee’s pieces were also displayed at a fashion showcase in Michigan. Her shows have received positive feedback and several buyers have invited her to participate in trade shows. She likes to work

with a wide range of materials such as leather, knit, quilted and stretch fabrics. Combining various, utterly distinct materials seems to have paid off because, according to Lee, “people can always recognize my work.”

Lee’s inspiration is reflected in several of her pieces and comes from a variety of sources. Her “grey padded jacket and jumpsuit borrow imagery from crop circles.” She used quilted fabric with circular patterns for this dark indigo jumpsuit. She further explained that “the structure and shape of a red knit coat and dress were inspired by blood vessels.”

In addition, Lee recommends using social media to network with other individuals in the industry, and in fact attributes some of her own success to Instagram. “After I posted pictures of my work on Instagram, my career started to take off. Several people reached out and offered me a place in their fashion shows.” The more she shared her designs, the more opportunities she received and the positive feedback came rolling in. While staying connected and interacting with your followers can have a major impact on your career, Lee added that you should always “stick to your own design aesthetic, and your effort will pay off.”

Other standout pieces include a gold corset and bodysuit, which were inspired by drag shows. The “pink and grey athleisure piece was inspired by Turkish painter İrfan.nürmen’s work, which I saw at the C24 gallery in Manhattan,” Lee said. “I loved his use of color blocking and layers, so I wanted to incorporate that into my work.” The budding designer also finds inspiration in “unique objects and phenomena,” childhood memories and the history of certain things.

Lee has also taken quite a bit of inspiration from her courses. “FIT has very different courses than other schools,” said Lee. Fashion schools tend to dictate what the designer has to create, but at FIT, students are given freedom to experiment and Lee finds this to be the most inspiring. “Other fashion schools have thesis classes, so students make garments for the theme they have been assigned.

At FIT, we are making new garments in every class.”

Lee describes herself as “a designer who likes to try things people have never done before.” So it should come as no surprise that her favorite thing about being one is when she gets to “experiment with new materials, stitching and fabric manipulation techniques.”

Lee has been recognized for her outstanding designs by fashion houses, magazines and countless social media influencers. She has managed to take her vision, and make it a reality.

It is clear from all she has achieved that she knows a thing or two about what it takes to break into the fashion industry. “Sometimes, people are worried about conceptual work because of sales. So long as your collection is coherent, people will appreciate wearing something that’s unique.”

PHOTOS COURTESY: JADE LEE

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ON THE BLOCK

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FIT Women’s Tennis Team

DOMINATES at Nationals

BY TABITHA SLOANE

On Saturday, Oct. 22, in Peachtree City, GA, the FIT women’s tennis team defended their title as first runner pp at the 2016 NJCAA Division III Women's Tennis National Championships.

FIT has made appearances at the last three championships. In 2014, the team came in third, but have come in as first runner up over the past two years.

The doubles national championship was perhaps the most hotly contested match. All throughout it, FIT pushed Oxford Emory to the edge, making them work hard for every point. FIT won the first set 6-4, lost the second set 5-7, and then pushed the third set to a tiebreaker. Sadly they came up short, barely losing the doubles national championship crown with a score of 6-7(10-8).

As for regional play, the women's tennis team dominated — not losing a single round robin tournament this season. And during non-region play, the team finished as runner ups in the Mercer Community College Women's Tennis Invitational, where some of the toughest teams in the country competed.

Keith Heron, the Athletic Director at FIT, is beyond proud. “It is not easy to put together such accomplishments in three consecutive seasons because of turnover,” Heron explained. “Our athletes can only compete for two years, so finishing top three nationally three years in a row is a great accomplishment in any sport at the NJCAA level.”

FALL 2016 JOB AND INTERNSHIP FAIR:

TURNING DREAMS INTO REALITY

BY SOPHIA OSTAPENKO

From Chanel to Bed Bath and Beyond, FIT’s Fall 2016 Job and Internship Fair had it all.

Whether you are a current student or alumni interested in landing an internship with Michael Kors, or searching for a part-time job at Toys “R” Us to support your lifestyle, the chances to network and potentially start your career were endless. Those attending the fair were instructed to bring several copies of their resumes and line up with all the other jobseeking students near the company that interested them. This process offers students at FIT a unique way to network with some of the biggest brands in a variety of industries, providing them with a host of opportunities not otherwise easy to come by.

Companies such as Toys “R” Us, Bed Bath and Beyond, American Apparel and The Shoe Box were looking for individuals who were interested in part-time or full-time jobs, preferably current students or alumni, between the ages of 18 and 30. There were also many opportunities for those who were interested in interning.

Reputable brands such as Michael Kors, The Camuto Group, Calvin Klein and Coach, Inc are just some of the companies who were hiring.

Whether you were looking to add more to your work experience or start an internship in your field of interest, this year’s Job and Internship Fair had something for everyone. The wide range of companies in attendance and the positions available all offered extensive options for a successful future. Be sure to prepare for the next fair scheduled for Thursday, March 23.

Special recognition goes to Nicole Druzhinsky, Alexandra Krynychki and Maia Sepulveda, who competed in singles and Kiana Brooks and Nadya Zelenova, who competed in doubles. These players have been the driving force behind the continuous effort and dedication displayed this season and have proven that FIT is more than just a fashion school.

“These players have been the force behind the continuous effort and dedication this season and have represented FIT as more than just a fashion school.”

FIT

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BY ERIN TAYLOR

If you live on campus at FIT and stay in traditional style housing, you are mandated by the school to have a meal plan. Though it is optional for those in apartment style housing, the majority of students living on campus have a meal plan or eat at the dining hall regularly.

In theory, this all sounds great. However, if you have any dietary restrictions, eating in the dining hall is a nightmare.

Many students on campus are vegan, vegetarian and/or gluten free; diets that are accommodated at most restaurants with a variety of options. At FIT, however, that is definitely not the case. As a vegan myself, I am unable to eat animal products of any kind. Coming to FIT, I figured I would not have trouble maintaining my veganism on campus because the dining hall would have an appropriate amount of options for me to eat. I couldn’t have been more wrong!. During the first week, all I ate was salad and French fries. I had heard some students rave about the vegan sushi and decided to give it a try, which I regretted five minutes after eating it. What I had expected was an avocado roll and what I received was a spoiled avocado with rice. I was hungry for the rest of the day.

I thought maybe the vegan hot bar would be a good alternative to my constant array of salads. It was not. The vegan meatballs they

so frequently offer are dry and tasted like overcooked cotton balls.

When I decided to give them another try, they were surprisingly juicy. However, I also noticed that the flavor was quite different. Let me just reiterate here that these came from the VEGAN hot bar. Well, vegan they were not! I came to find out that the mysterious flavor I had tasted had been chicken broth that was poured over the vegan meatballs earlier that day by an employee. This type of carelessness is what forced me to get a job so I could afford to eat off campus and buy groceries.

Trying to find a genuine vegan meal on this campus is not only hard, but also boring due to the limited amount of options. And eating on campus is twice as hard if you are gluten-free. The high likelihood of cross-contamination is also quite scary. I watched in horror as my veggie burger was cooked on the grill next to a Philly cheesesteak; none of the cooks change their gloves at the grill station and they prepare different meals in virtually the same spot. If you ask for something with no bun, odds are you are getting a crosscontaminated meal that could quite possibly harm you. These are issues that many students at FIT face daily while trying to endure the struggle of eating at the cafeteria — an issue that will continue to go unrecognized due to the lack of recognition and care.

FIT Collegiate DECA Takes Home a Prize at the Collegiate Leadership Academy Competition

BY DANIEL NISSIM

FIT Collegiate DECA is one of many clubs at FIT operating with little notice, but still garnering success. Comprised of FBM and AMC majors, the club takes part in several competitions during the school year. The Collegiate Leadership Academy Competition (CLA), held from Nov. 3-5 in New York City, is one of many such competitions.

The competition has five different tracks such as marketing and communication, fashion merchandising and retail management, and over 25 schools from around the country compete in it. A group of over 16 FIT students competed this year, the sixth year in a row for the club, with students picking their preferred track. Each group visits a company and is given case study projects to solve, such as last year’s advertising in Times Square challenge, in a 24-hour period. The groups then present their projects and winners are selected for their work. This year, second-year FBM student Soni Solano won an award in the Business Management and Administration in the Fashion Merchandising and Marketing track for her work on Men’s Wearhouse — a great achievement both individually and for her team.

Another major competition for the club is International Career Development Conference (ICDC), which will be held in Anaheim, California. The club has been very successful in past years with seven out of the eight girls that attended last year placing in the competition.

FIT DECA has already established themselves as one of our school’s most essential clubs. Their continued success in competitions and their fundraising work through the sale of trail mix are great examples of their ability to apply what they learn in the classroom in a practical manner. To find out more about FIT’s DECA chapter including information on their corporate trips, be sure to follow them on Twitter and Instagram at @FIT_DECA.

PHOTOS COURTESY: DANICA TANEDO

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ON THE BLOCK

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The Jay and Patty Baker School of Business & Technology Looks Toward the Future

BY DANIEL NISSIM As seismic shifts continue to shake the retail industry, it is clear that universities with retail programs must adapt to this change. In this respect, the Jay and Patty Baker School of Business and Technology is about to see some major technological advancements. From FIT’s hosting this year’s Middle Atlantic Association of Colleges of Business Administration (MAACBA) to the business school’s impending accreditation, FIT has made a commitment to secure the future of their programs.

The 66th Annual MAACBA Conference took place from Oct. 26-28. After two years of planning, FIT played host to deans and administrators from over 150 colleges. Speakers included FIT professors, Microsoft Global Business Manager David Cox and CNBC’s Sara Eisen, co-anchor of “Squawk on the Street.” On MAACBA and the Jay and Patty Baker School of Business and Technology, Dean Steven Frumkin said, “It’s part of what we’re doing in the school of business to reintroduce ourselves to the business academic world…We wanted to step out into the world and be involved with other business schools.

We’ve got faculty writing books now.

We’ve got faculty doing more speeches around the world, etc. And this conference brings us together with our peers in about 150 schools along the eastern seaboard of the United States.”

Oct. 27’s “Future of Retailing” plenary session explored the advancement of the retail industry. Moderator Robin Sackin Litwinsky (Chair of Fashion Business Management, FIT) was joined by panelists Howard Kreitzman (VP Cosmetics and Fragrance, Bloomingdale’s NY), Shelley E Kohan (Resident Retail Expert, FIT) Robin Lewis (Founder and CEO of the Robin Report) and Greg Petro (Chief Executive Officer, First Insight, Inc.). Petro discussed the need for retailers to change their perspective to the consumer’s point of view. He went on to highlight the new marketing advantages of mobile platforms as consumers continue to engage in new ways.

Kreitzman talked about the need of retailers to shift their focus from catering to baby boomers to catering to millennials. Millennials have different shopping patterns and seek a social aspect in their retail experiences, Kreitzman added. By making the retail experience pleasurable, companies will be better equipped to succeed. Kohan discussed the advan-

tage of using analytics as legacy stores have been slow to adapt to smaller operations. Lewis praised Amazon — how they lease space for others to operate off their platform, adding that retailers should emulate Amazon’s model.

In David Cox’s “Technology, Disruption & the Digital Enterprise”session, Cox spoke about the role of technology in the shifting retail world. Data collection, and the ability to plug said data into algorithms, is a crucial part of helping to predict future events and trends. Cox went on to pitch Microsoft’s HoloLens and its game-changing role in the industry.

never done her before and how it relates to 800 other business schools around the world. So we might find that 799 other schools teach students ‘this,’ and they know ‘this’ and you’re competing with these people and we don’t do that. Or we might find we’re way ahead of the pack. That’s a way of looking at other business schools and what they’re doing and monitoring ourselves just as you’d with other students or basketball player on a basketball court or another menswear designer. What are you going to do that is better and different?

"We wanted to step out into the world and be involved with other business schools. We’ve got faculty writing books now. We’ve got faculty doing more speeches around the world, etc. And this conference brings us together with our peers in about 150 schools along the eastern seaboard of the United States.”

Imagine designing a dress in a 3D mixed reality space and then printing it instantly with a 3D printer. Cox’s colleague, Jean Acosta, went on to discuss the shifting identity of what it means to be a store — it’s no longer this static thing. For a business to be successful, she added, they must nail the storefront or else they’ll fail.

Beyond the MAACBA Conference’s success, Dean Frumkin spoke about FIT’s goal of obtaining accreditation for the School of Business and Technology when interviewed. He highlighted some of the different benefits that it would provide.

The programs will start to change based on the assessments that we’re going to be doing that we’ve

The accreditation should be approved by next year, and Dean Frumkin hopes that the school will be “recognized in higher education as a go-to place business school.”

Apart from the impending accreditation, Dean Frumkin, along with the faculty in the School of Business and Technology, have implemented many changes over the last couple of years.

“Fashion Business Management has been integrated over the last couple of years since I’ve been dean — technology in every single program. They’ve also instituted many interdisciplinary projects,” said Dean Frumkin. He also went on to highlight some of the college’s specific technological advancements. “We’ve

put together a class that takes mathematics at a much higher level and it puts it in an algorithm to predict future buying patterns even based on weather. We’ve got a 3D body scanner in that department. We’ve got a 3D body scanner in production management. We’re all about technology in the classroom now where we never were before — much of it donated.”

The changing retail market has forced many schools to take a good look at the state of their programs. But bringing the MAACBA Conference to FIT and the prospect of the School of Business and Technology becoming accredited, have left Dean Frumkin believing that FIT has a bright future. FIT is known for equipping its students with the tools needed to succeed in their respective industries, and it is clear that the School of Business and Technology is making a concerted effort to keep up with the industry changes.

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PERFECTION

Gigi Hadid is now the face of the “#PerfectNever” campaign and clothing line, Reebok’s latest installment of their “Be More Human” movement.

Their message aims inspire women everywhere to feel empowered and confident through physical fitness. A former competitive boxer and horseback rider, Hadid is a great choice for this campaign.

Hadid’s career has skyrocketed within the past few years, but such amazing success comes with a price, and she is no stranger to criticism. From Photoshop mishaps to constant judgement regarding her body, she’s experienced her fair share of hate. Sadly, this is the norm in the fashion industry and celebrity culture in general. Instead of being defeated, Hadid harnesses the negativity into something positive. In an interview with InStyle magazine, Hadid said that embracing her mistakes and her imperfections ultimately motivated her to strive for greatness. Recently, she took to Instagram to celebrate her campaign with a photo captioned, “May we always remember that good is the enemy of great. Don’t settle.”

The fashion industry has a long history of catering to women who wear a size 2, utterly disregarding the fact that most women actually wear a size 12.

Even plus-sized models have been shamed and told to lose weight in order to book certain jobs.

Only recently, with the advent and proliferation of social media, have models that represent all different types of women and those with more

BY CHRISTINA SANTOS

unconventional looks been discovered. Brands are finally becoming even the slightest bit more inclusive. But despite this modicum of progress, the fashion industry still has a long way to go.

The #PerfectNever campaign is taking steps in the right direction. Its goal, along with destroying the idea of perfection, is for women to feel motivated through working out and embracing their imperfections. With Reebok, Hadid is spreading body positivity and the multitude of benefits that are gained from physical fitness. Hadid has also spoken out against body shamers in the past through open letters on Instagram and responses to comments.

Following in the footsteps of Ronda Rousey, a major force in the competitive world of UFC, Hadid has some very big shoes to fill. Both women have even previously appeared in Sports Illustrated together. In a statement to Reebok, the unapologetic Rousey said, “Not everyone is always going to like you, but life will go on, you’ll be OK and you can still love yourself.” She couldn’t be more right.

PHOTO COURTESY: WIKIMEIDA COMMONS

ABERCROMBIE & FITCH X REALISTIC MODELS

BY ERIN TAYLOR

Over the years, consumers have grown tired of Abercrombie and the way they market themselves. Advertisements featuring muscular, wet, shirtless men sexily posed with a thin, straighthaired female allude to the idea that if you wear Abercrombie, you can look just like them. People are angry about the brand and this standard of beauty.

Many have taken to social media outlets like Facebook to voice their criticisms of the brand and offer business advice. One woman commented, “Nobody is that skinny.

Use more realistic photos of women and you’ll get more business. Thank you and goodbye.” Others have said, “That girl needs a burger or two. That's not sexy. It’s not even realistic!!!!!” and “Gotta love stick thin girls that look half dead.” Comments like these have led the brand to rethink the models and marketing tactics they employ.

Last year, a spokesperson for the brand told Business Insider, "We are reviewing images in our marketing and will take appropriate action as we move through that process." After being attacked by consumers on social media and across news publicans for their thin models and how they positioned their brand, Abercrombie has begun to revamp every aspect of themselves as a brand from their models to their clothing to their ad campaigns.

The company has been criticized before for having unrealistic and abnormally thin models represent the brand. According to dailymail. co.uk, a report by the Sunday Times stated that, “all the models on the Abercrombie & Fitch website had a waist-to-height ratio of less than 0.4,” which, according to nutritionists used by the Sunday Times is “the minimum safe level.” Abercrombie & Fitch employs models who are 0.1 inches away from being clinically ill. In doing so, Abercrombie is communicating that in order to wear their clothes, you have to be incredibly thin. And with more consumers speaking out about body image in fashion and more designers showing full-figured models, The new face of Abercrombie & Fitch Abercrombie can’t keep up consumers is the former ASOS model, once are starting to notice. featured on the cover of Harper’s

Bazaar Australia, Alex Libby. A new look for Abercrombie, Libby is a far cry from the clean cut Abercrombie model we’ve grown accustomed to.

Though he is built like the typical Abercrombie model, he has long hair and a beard. This has caused quite a stir on Facebook, with some people calling him “homeless.” However, publications like W Magazine are raving about Libby being the new face of Abercrombie, calling his “rough-around-the-edges surfer vibe a throwback to the Abercrombie we all knew and loved.” The support Libby is getting from media publications is working Abercrombie’s favor. It is also helping them achieve a “more elevated and distinguished look,” which they have tried to incorporate into their new 2016 campaigns. For example, their 2016 denim campaign, “The Blues,” features a racially diverse group of models who are still thin but in a light and playful way rather than the traditionally dark, shirtless and sexy way.

Abercrombie & Fitch is doing more than just switching models. The company is currently undergoing a

complete rebranding. Even the stores are changing. Instead of walking into Abercrombie and feeling like you are at a cheap club, they are giving them a softer, quieter feel in order to attract their target market and reach out to new customers. These changes are largely due to the fact that the demographic Abercrombie is aimed at has grown up, and the brand has to grow with them. That being said, it will likely be awhile before we start seeing truly real looking men and women modeling in their campaigns, but at least they are making an effort.

Rebranding takes a long time, often years, but the progress Abercrombie & Fitch has made so far is refreshing and the brand is more inviting than ever before.

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DEAR INDUSTRY

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Easy, Breezy, Beautiful… CoverBoy ROHINI MIKKELSEN

On Oct. 16, CoverGirl nearly broke the internet. With a click of an Instagram button, a shock wave rolled through the web.

The 55-year-old makeup company announced that the newest face of the brand, their newest “Cover Girl,” was actually a Cover Boy. A far cry from their usual pick of a popular female celebrity, James Charles isn’t a Hollywood celebrity and he isn’t a girl, but he is the first male CoverGirl.

Before Charles was made the first male face of a leading cosmetics brand, he was a self-taught makeup artist and a high school senior.

He became a breakout star on Instagram and Twitter by sharing his creative and original makeup looks. He went viral when he tweeted his senior yearbook photo, in which he wore a full tux and mimicked applying highlighter to his already glammed up face. As he said in a tweet, “I love being extra.” In his case, extra was just enough. His internet

fame instantly skyrocketed across a multitude of social media sites. Charles now has an impressive 867,000 plus followers on Instagram and holds a steady YouTube following of over 216,000..

In addition to being the first male CoverGirl, he was also named one of Time Magazine’s most influential teens of 2016. In response, he tweeted, “Holy crap I am literally on this list. James Charles, 17. Right there.

That's me. I am beyond speechless.”

With his unparalleled cosmetic skills and such a wide audience at his fingertips, he is definitely deserving of his spot on the list.Thanks to the upcoming CoverGirl campaign, this 17-year-old will find himself displayed across the globe on billboards, in magazine ads and in TV commercials. To make the whole experience even sweeter, Charles received virtual support and congratulatory tweets from some of the biggest names in beauty. Makeup creator

and YouTube star Jaclyn Hill sent him a tweet calling him “so inspirational,” while his fellow CoverGirl and campaign ad costar, Katy Perry, gave him a shoutout on Instagram to her 58.1 million followers, boosting his internet exposure even more.

What is beautiful about his new position as a CoverGirl amounts to so much more than his stunning makeup look in the campaign ad — it is the message that the brand is sending. This campaign will cause a passersby to stop, look and recognize not only James Charles’ sheer talent, but the fact that beauty is not one size fits all, as well. As Charles said in an interview with the New York Times, “This industry is actually becoming genderless and we’re really making the push toward equal opportunities for everybody, regardless of race, sexuality [and] gender.”

Attention all artists!

WANT TO SEE YOU WORK IMMORTALIZED IN PRINT AND DISTRIBUTED ACROSS CAMPUS? Then send your work to w27_newspaper@fitnyc.edu

W27 is open to feautring all art & design majors For our December issue, please submit samples of your work by November 25th

PHOTO COURTESY: JAMES CHARLES

FIT

NOVEMBER 2016

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DEAR INDUSTRY

W27

The Perks of Being a Vegan

BY MORGAN COURT Over the last two decades, so much in and about the world we live in has changed that some might say it has become an unrecognizable place. Despite the positive advancements we have made, recent events have made it clear just how grim things actually are.

We are constantly bombarded with stories of spontaneous bombings, environmental disasters, deadly mosquitos, social injustices and even clowns with machetes that are scaring people left and right. With all of the horror that exists in today’s time, it makes sense that people are seeking out ways to better themselves, both inside and out. Whether it be through clean food, outdoor activities or exercise, the feel-good movement is gaining momentum, specifically veganism.

Veganism, however, is not for everyone. Hamburgers and hot dogs are a huge part of our culture, as is turkey, (try and imagine the fourth of July or Thanksgiving sans the aforementioned foods) and the average, meat-loving citizen might find it difficult to give up not only the hamburger patty, but the cheese as well (a concept that many vegetarians are also averse to). However, it’s slowly yet surely being adopted by the mainstream. Vegan bloggers are flooding social newsfeeds, plantbased restaurants are popping up all over and compassionate clothing (a.k.a. Vegan and cruelty-free) lines are surfacing everywhere.

The Harris Interactive Service Bureau recently conducted a survey in which they found that, “approximately five percent of the U.S. is vegetarian (close to 16 million people) and about half of these vegetarians are vegan.” These numbers have grown exponentially over the last 20 years and it is no different in the U.K. Since 2006, the U.K. has seen a 350 percent increase in the number of people who follow a vegan diet, rising from 150,000 people to 542,000 people. And the majority are between the ages of 14 and 34. The Guardian followed up on this story and interviewed five teenagers between

14 and 17 years old to find out why so many young people are making such a drastic change. Though they all had different stories and reasons to support their choice, one thing was clear: social media played a large role in each of their decisions and continued participation in the vegan lifestyle. Megan Malthouse, 17, from Hampshire, told The Guardian “Most young people are into it (especially about my age) because publicity for it has grown on social media, especially on Instagram.” Colleen Brennan, who at 14 was the youngest person interviewed, explained that her interest in veganism began after and watching some YouTube videos on the subject. 15-year-old Isabella Hood, a New Zealand native, said “Me and my vegan friends connect a lot through Facebook. I am in countless vegan groups and get updates on upcoming event such as vegan food fairs and protests. I use the groups to ask questions and discuss ideas with like- minded vegans. I also watch quite a few YouTubers who are very inspirational.”

In general, people’s attitudes toward their food have been shifting in recent years. Being aware of what is actually in the foods we eat and a desire to lead a clean and healthy lifestyle have both become major factors in what we consume. Veganism and vegetariansim have long been related to animal rights and though that will always be a major factor in why some people choose these lifestyles, recent data suggests that it is no longer the main one. Industry expert Eric Pierce explained to foodnavigator-usa. com that 35 percent of consumers associate eating vegan with eating healthy, compared with the 23 percent that associate it with animal welfare. “In addition, 13% associated it with cleaner ingredients, 12% with weight loss, 11% with environmental responsibility and 8% with social responsibility,” according to data Pierce presented.

The health hazards that result from eating red meat have been welldocumented. There have been countless studies on this subject and the findings are frightening.

One such study examined a compound found in red meats known as carnitine that can cause the hardening or clogging of blood vessels, and increased levels of this compound are related to higher risks for heart disease.

Another study, from the Harvard School of Public Health, found a link between eating red meat shortened life spans. There have also been links between eating red meat and developing Type 2 diabetes and also in developing

"...one hamburger uses approximately 660 gallons of water to produce. So in essence, you can take your time in the shower to exfoliate or do whatever it is that you like to do, and instead of eating a hamburger, have a veggie burger."

Alzheimer’s. According to prevention. com, meat has a lot of iron in it and “when iron accumulates in the brain, myelin—a fatty tissue that coats nerve fibers—is destroyed. This disrupts brain communication, and signs of Alzheimer’s appear.” The World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research reviewed many studies and found strong evidence to suggest that eating red and processed meats can cause colorectal cancer, and that, though it is limited, there have been links to throat, stomach, lung, endometrial and pancreatic cancers.

Understandably, red meat is not all meat. However, most animal products are high in saturated fats, or as Harvard Medical School refers to them, “in-between fats.” Over indulgence in these “in-between” fats can drive up cholesterol and prompt artery blockages. According to Harvard Health Publications, the good fats come mainly from vegetables, nuts and seeds, which also all happen to be 100 percent vegan.

Aside from preventing health hazards, going vegan very well could prevent excessive ecological waste. In line with the recent shift in perceptions is the realization that vegetarianism/ veganism and environmentalism directly correlate with one another.

The secrets to energy and water conservation do not lie within short showers or recycling, but actually within our diets. According to the Los Angeles Times, one hamburger uses approximately 660 gallons of water to produce. So in essence, you can take your time in the shower to exfoliate or

do whatever it is that you like to do, and instead of eating a hamburger, have a veggie burger.

Unbeknownst to most, agriculture is actually one of the biggest contributors to the downfall of our environment. The Ian Somerhalder Foundation reported that the U.S. commercial livestock and poultry operations produce three times more waste a year than that produced by the entire human population. Cow farts alone emit some of the deadliest methane gas emissions, and that’s not a joke either. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, “Animal agriculture is responsible for 18 percent of greenhouse gas emissions, more than the combined exhaust from all transportation.”

While downsizing our agricultural industry may provide environmental improvement, doing so would negatively impact the economy.

Agriculture is the foundation and the base of all commercial flow. If that were to suddenly disappear, millions of people would be out of work. With this notion taken into account, a compromise called sustainable and organic farming was invented. Slowly and surely, more and more farmers are adopting sustainable practices to their agricultural systems. Time Magazine reports that the number of organic producers in the U.S. has risen more than 5 percent in the last year. In addition, the USDA even put forward $66.5 million in funding towards the cause.

Change is happening and we need to change with it in order for things to improve. The evidence that eating red meat has adverse health effects is overwhelming and difficult to refute.

Environmentally speaking, living a vegan lifestyle would undoubtedly have a positive impact. However, following such a strict diet is not for everyone and it certainly won’t solve all of the issues in our world today. But if any of this resonates with you, you can always take it slow. Try not eating meat for a week, or even a month and see how it goes.

You never know. This feel-good movement might just be the thing for you.

FIT

NOVEMBER 2016

MADE BY GOOGLE POP-UP SHOP SHOP TAKES NYC

BY THAIS DERJANGOCYAN

On Oct. 20, Google’s first concept store, Made By Google, pitched its tent right in the heart of SoHo — blocks away from the SoHo Apple Store. The purpose of this venue is to showcase Google’s latest products by having customers try them out. They are offering a full-on retail experience to engage consumers with their latest hardware. While not a sales location in the traditional sense, it serves as a place where customers can test out their future purchases.

Set up as a high tech version of IKEA, the Made By Google shop features their latest smartphones, the Pixel and Pixel XL, Google’s virtual reality headset and controller, Daydream View VR, and Google Home, a voice-activated product that brings a Siri-like assistant to any room in your house via a Wi-Fi-connected speaker.

The store is designed to resemble living space so customers will be able to see what these products would look like in their own homes.

The space also offers a service called “Pixel 101” which answers current Google smartphone users’ questions through a Google guide. "It’s a great way to quickly learn about Pixel,” says the company’s website. “In small groups of five or less, a Google guide will tell you all about your new Pixel and answer your questions."

It is not clear how long this pop-up shop will be in town, but rest assured it will not be the only one. Digital Trends reported that from now through December, there will be a number of cutting-edge pop-ups coming to New York from a variety of tech companies, including Samsung, which is no stranger to this kind of thing. Two years ago, Samsung rented a three-story penthouse apartment in Chelsea where they set up a smart home. However, the products showcased were not for the average consumer, but aimed instead towards the uber wealthy. Even Amazon is jumping on the bandwagon, having opened pop-up shops in malls across

America, giving consumers a chance to try and (and hopefully purchase) their products.

The holiday season has long been integral to a store’s success. According to acuative.com, “Retailers bank on these busy periods, not only for their current fiscal year, but as the gateway to their next year’s projects, budgets, and more.

The pop-up store is revitalizing retailers during this crucial time, offering them a new, temporary venue in which to draw in customers and revenue.”

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FEATURES

W27

"I AM THANKFUL FOR THE EXPERIENCES AND OPPORTUNITIES I’VE HAD SINCE I MOVED TO THIS CITY. ALSO, ALL THE NEW FRIENDS I’VE MET THIS YEAR (AND THE OLD ONES WHO HAVE STUCK AROUND) AND THE GOOD BOOKS AND STORIES I’VE READ AND SEEN SO FAR." -ANDREA NAVARRO

"I AM THANKFUL FOR BEING A PART OF SUCH AN AMAZING SCHOOL. I AM ALWAYS STRUCK BY THE QUALITY OF WORK PUT OUT BY STUDENTS ON A DAILY BASIS. I’M ALSO THANKFUL FOR MY AMAZING TEAM AT W27. WE’VE PUT OUT SOME GREAT WORK SO FAR AND WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO THROUGHOUT THE REST OF THE SCHOOL YEAR." -DANIEL NISSIM

W27 Staff is "I’M THANKFUL FOR ACAI BOWLS, AIRPLANES AND MOST IMPORTANTLY MY DOG, LAVENDER. I AM ALSO VERY THANKFUL FOR THIS CRAZY CITY THAT I NOW CALL HOME, AND OF COURSE, FOR MY FAMILY, AS THEY SUPPORTED THE CHOICE I MADE TO MOVE ACROSS THE COUNTRY, EVEN THOUGH I MADE NO CERTAIN PROMISE OF COMING BACK (SORRY, MOM)."

"WHAT I’M MOST THANKFUL FOR IS HAVING THE MOST AMAZING MOTHER WHO HAS ALWAYS BEEN THERE FOR ME AND HELPED ME BECOME THE PERSON I AM TODAY. MY MOTHER IS THE NUMBER ONE REASON WHY I STRIVE FOR SUCCESS AND REMIND MYSELF THAT WHATEVER PROBLEM OR SITUATION I’M FACED WITH, THERE IS ALWAYS AN ANSWER OR SOLUTION TO KEEP ON MOVING FORWARD."

-ROHINI MIKKELSEN

-SHADEN ESPINOZA

"THIS THANKSGIVING I AM THANKFUL FOR MY BEST FRIEND EVEN THOUGH SHE LIVES IN FLORIDA. I FEEL AS THOUGH WE HAVE NEVER BEEN CLOSER."

"I'M THANKFUL FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO LIVE, WORK AND STUDY WITH WONDERFUL PEOPLE IN THE GREATEST CITY IN THE WORLD."

-ERIN TAYLOR

-MARTIN ALLEN

"I'M THANKFUL FOR OUR W27 WRITERS WHO ARE THE MOST HARDWORKING WRITERS IN THE WORLD! AND MASHED POTATOES." -JENNY KIM

"I'M THANKFUL FOR HEALTH, FAMILY, FRIENDS AND SCHOOL! I'VE ALREADY LEARNED SO MUCH IN MY SHORT TIME AT FIT, AND I'VE HAD AMAZING EXPERIENCES WITH NEW FRIENDS." -CAMERON HEANEY

"I AM THANKFUL FOR MY STRONG SUPPORT SYSTEM OF FRIENDS AND FAMILY." -TABITHA SLOANE

FIT

NOVEMBER 2016

"THIS YEAR I AM EXUBERANTLY THANKFUL FOR ALL THE LOVE AND SUPPORT OF THOSE CLOSEST TO ME. I AM THANKFUL FOR A FAMILY I ALSO GET TO CALL MY BEST FRIENDS, EXPERIENCES AND OPPORTUNITIES I HAVE BEEN GIVEN BY ATTENDING THE FASHION INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY. AND LASTLY, I’M THANKFUL TO BE WRITING FOR W27 NEWSPAPER FOR FOUR YEARS STRAIGHT BEFORE GRADUATING THIS SPRING 2017."

-THAIS DERJANGOCYAN

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“I AM THANKFUL FOR MY FAMILY AND EVERYONE WHO HAS INPIRED ME AND WHO STUCK BY MY SIDE THOUGHT THICK AND THIN. AND FOR ALL THE OPPORTUNITIES THAT I'VE BEEN ABLE TO TAKE PART IN AT FIT” -ROSE-ANN REYNOLDS

Thankful For… “I AM THANKFUL FOR MY FRIENDS AND FAMILY, OF COURSE. BUT ALSO THE OPPORTUNITIES THAT HAVE COME MY WAY SINCE BEING AT FIT.”

"I AM THANKFUL FOR SUNSHINE, FOR IT ALWAYS MAKES ME HAPPY WHEN TIMES ARE GRAY." -MORGAN COURT

"I'M THANKFUL FOR THE NEW FRIENDS THAT I'VE MADE WHILE AT FIT, ESPECIALLY MY ROOMMATES WHO FEEL LIKE FAMILY! I'M ALSO THANKFUL FOR $1 PIZZA, CENTRAL PARK, AND AMAZON PRIME FOR GETTING ME THROUGH THIS SEMESTER SOMEWHAT SANELY."

-KAYLA RENSHAW

“I AM THANKFUL FOR EVERYTHING THAT I HAVE IN MY LIFE. WHETHER IT’S THE PEOPLE WHO SURROUND ME OR THE OPPORTUNITIES I HAVE, I AM THANKFUL FOR IT ALL.” -SOPHIA OSTAPENKO

-TAYLOR KOONTZ

"I AM THANKFUL FOR MY PARENTS FOR SUPPORTING ME, MY FRIENDS FOR GETTING ME, AND MY BOYFRIEND FOR LOVING ME. ALSO, FOOD AND NYC." -VALERIE GUTIERREZ:

"I'M THANKFUL FOR THE CHALLENGES OF THIS PAST YEAR BECAUSE I WAS FORCED TO LEARN ABOUT MYSELF AND GROW STRONGER AS A PERSON. I'M ALSO THANKFUL FOR MY FAMILY AND MY FRIENDS. WITHOUT THEIR LOVE AND SUPPORT, I WOULD SURELY BE LOST." -MEGHAN KANE

VECTOR ART COURTESY: BSGSTUDIO

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BEAUTY BUZZ

W27

The Best Foundations Under $10 (YOU’RE WELCOME)

BY ROHINI MIKKELSEN

e.l.f Moisturizing Foundation Stick Why: The price is pretty much unbeatable and the adorable tube applicator is perfect for any on-thego beauty fix. If you are someone who needs a quick fix in the morning to even out your skin tone, but don’t want a foundation that’s heavy on the skin, this uber affordable option could be your match.

Coverage: Light but buildable. Similar finish to a BB cream.

Price: $6.00 Where: Target, Ulta

Maybelline Fit Me Why: This all-star foundation is offered in forty different shades, two different finishes and accommodates both oily and dry skin. If you want a matte finish but you have oily skin, no worries. You have your pick between “Matte and Poreless” or “Dewy and Smooth,” depending on the look you want to achieve.

Coverage: Medium-Full. Don’t let the price fool you, this foundation is excellent for uneven or acne-prone skin. The formula can easily be built up to full coverage, and if that’s still not enough, a matching concealer is offered.

Price: $7.00 Where: CVS, Duane Reade, Harmon’s Face Values, Target, Ulta

L’Oreal True Match Why: This little bottle may not catch your eye when perusing the beauty aisle, but the proof is in the pudding, or the foundation in this case. This award-winning makeup is a winner.

With 32 shades that accommodate warm, neutral and cool skin tones, someone who may not normally find cosmetic success within the drug store may find the perfect match with this product.

Coverage: Light-Medium. Even if you apply more than one layer of this foundation, the natural finish still gives off a fresh, youthful look.

Price: $8.00 Where: Harmon’s Face Values, Target, Ulta, CVS, Duane Reade

Milani 2 in 1 Why: The name speaks for itself; a concealer and foundation all rolled into one — yes, please. You can use this product as a full coverage foundation or as a concealer. Just a few pumps and you’re golden. Milani has answered the college student’s prayer with this product. No need for a concealer application means you might be able to hit that snooze button one more time.

Coverage: Full.

Price: $9.00 Where: Harmon’s Face Values, Target

PHOTO COURTESY: FASHIONM.COM

The Risks of Sharing Makeup

BY LUIZA BATISTA Getting together with friends for a group makeup session or even a free makeover at a cosmetic store sounds like it would be fun, right? Wrong!

This seemingly innocuous activity can potentially be be extremely dangerous.

Sharing makeup can cause skin irritations and viruses and transmit bacteria and fungi. Even diseases like herpes can be transmitted through sharing makeup or using unclean makeup utensils.

Specialists say that the risk of contamination for microorganisms is very high. In fact, a large percentage of common (but serious) eye infections are the result of having shared makeup.

or try on lipstick in a store without sanitizing it first — you have no way of knowing how many other people tried it on before you and what their lips have touched! If you still are not convinced of the dangers of sharing makeup, keep reading for a more detailed list.

Lipstick: According to Dr. Leo di Oliveira Carvalho, a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, not only can mononucleosis and herpes be transmitted, sharing lipstick can also cause bad breath, tooth cavities and gums problems.

Blush and eye shadow: Though it more difficult to transmit diseases by sharing these kinds of makeup brushes, the Brazilian Association of Cosmetology explains that unclean sponges or brushes can cause a type of bacteria that inflames the skin and can cause itchiness, acne and blisters.

Cleaning personal brushes and makeup utensils every two weeks with neutral shampoo or makeup brush cleaners is recommended as it reduces bacteria from forming. Just Eyeliner: Considered the most think about what happens if you share dangerous, sharing eyeliner with your mascara with a bunch of friends someone else greatly increases the

risk of getting various ocular diseases, explains Dr. Carvalho. Examples include Conjunctivitis, an infection that makes your eyes red and feels you have sand in them; Blepharitis, which causes itching, photophobia and diminishes the vision; and Trachoma, which bring about chronic inflammation that causes swollen eyelids.

enough to get some sort of infection, say conjunctivitis for example, make sure you get rid of any and all products you may have come in contact with, and inform anyone else that you may have shared them with!

Sponges and Brushes: Sponges and brushes can accumulate viruses and bacteria in the roots of facial hair.

However, by washing the utensils every 15 days with neutral shampoo and letting them dry in the sun, those problems can be avoided. Also, when getting a makeover in a store or going to a salon, it is always a better option to ask for disposable sponges and brushes.

Mascara: Scarily, mascara is the item that friends share or borrow the most, and yet it is also the one warned against the most. Sharing it leads to the same risks as sharing eyeliner.

So, if you happen to be unfortunate

PHOTO COURTESY: SWEETSPUN.COM

FIT

NOVEMBER 2016

BALMAIN’S CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT THE MET

BY SARAH FIELDING

Olivier Rousteing spent the first five months of his life in an orphanage in France; thirty-one years later he sat on stage at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York for “The Atelier With Alina Cho” event as the creative director of Balmain. Rousteing used this opportunity to reflect on his upbringing, the increasing need for diversity, celebrity culture and more.

Rousteing grew up with the notion that there was no black and white, but that people are just people. When his parents saw him at the orphanage, they immediately fell in love.

The workers went on to tell the couple, “We have white kids, you know.” Appalled by this blatant racism, they decided to go ahead and adopt Rousteing. Growing up in Bordeaux, he never saw his family as any different until some kids at school began mocking his appearance. They made comments such as, “Oh, that’s surprising you want to study Latin, or that you want to take Greek.” The children tried to make him feel bad because he looked different. Throughout the talk he stressed that because of his upbringing and experiences, he has made it a top priority to help the world see beyond color.

Rousteing first pursued a law degree because his parents wanted him to, but never completed the schooling. At this point, he acknowledged his calling and decided to attend fashion school, which he also dropped out of — not wanting to spend anymore time at university. After leaving school, Rousteing struggled to find direction and to figure out what he wanted to do with his life. Fashion had always interested him but never seemed like a realistic path. “I didn’t realize your passion could also be your job,” he stated. “I always loved fashion, but I thought, ‘Maybe it’s just a passion, not a career.” He felt an urge to start working as soon as possible and moved to Italy to begin an internship under Peter Dundas at Roberto Cavalli. However, he longed to be in Paris, and after climbing the ladder at Cavalli, he moved there and sent his resumé, along with a letter of praise, to Balmain.

Christophe Decarnin, then creative director, and recipient of the letter, hired Rousteing as his right-hand man. Eighteen months later, Decarnin suddenly left Balmain and Rousteing was appointed the new creative director at the tender age of twenty-five. At first, the fashion industry was hesitant to accept him, but Rousteing quickly turned things around. Initially, Rousteing aimed to keep the aesthetic of the clothing extremely similar to his predecessor, but over the years, he has developed a signature style that has been adapted to fit today’s consumer.

Since Rousteing took over as creative director of Balmain six years ago, the fashion industry has changed dramatically. This in part has to do with the explosive popularity of social media. Rousteing was the first creative director to create a personal Instagram account. He now has four million of his own Instagram followers in addition to the five and a half million followers the Balmain account has. The brand has fully embraced this type of promotion and understands how to use it as a marketing and communication tool. Even as a luxury brand, Balmain is able to interact with customers from all walks of life and make them feel like a part of the experience.

Balmain also has a very close relationship with a great deal of social media celebrities such as the Kardashians, the Hadid sisters and other popular models. Rousteing’s celebrity friends are commonly referred to as the “Balmain Army,” which generally consists of those he dresses for award shows and galas.

However, Rousteing made it clear that he will not dress just anyone. In the past, celebrities have reached out to the brand for clothing and been denied because, as he once explained, he will only dress people who he respects and admires.

features and give consumers the ability to be proud of their body, no matter what shape they are. When asked about diversity in the fashion industry, Rousteing did not want to point fingers, but he did emphasize how much further the industry still has to go in order to be considered truly diverse.

Rousteing also took the time to discuss Balmain’s upcoming line of accessories. There will be shoes and bags, along with other accessories, with black and gold prominently featured on a range of products. Rousteing was most excited about the fact that this will allow him to bring great quality to a wider range of consumers due to the fact that accessories sit at a lower price point. He mentioned last year’s H&M collaboration and it thrilled him to bring the Balmain aesthetic to the mass market customer.

Under Rousteing, Balmain has become known for strong, structured designs. In the latest collection, however, the clothing has softened and does not possess the same intense tailoring as before. Rousteing attributed this to his feeling that the “Balmain Army,” whom he not only dresses, but admires and uses as his muses, have softened. He explained that while they are still strong, their need to fight isn’t as heavily at the forefront of their thoughts.

The change might also be a reflection of the fact that Balmain was recently bought

by Valentino’s parent company, Mayhoola.

When asked about the acquisition, Rousteing explained how well it has been going and how much he loves working with the new company.

The event was supposed to conclude with a Q&A period, but instead it ended when the entire audience rushed the stage with everyone trying to get a selfie with the designer. Despite the craziness, the event was social and smart, just like Rousteing himself.

Rousteing has been applauded for his diversification both on and off the runway. He is one of a few high-end designers who doesn’t design clothes that are only flattering on a size 2. His designs highlight a variety of women’s

"In the past six years since Rousteing has taken over as creative director, the fashion industry has changed dramatically."

PHOTO COURTESY: SARAH FIELDING

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ON THE BLOCK FEATURES

W27

FROM DESIGN TO PRINT: AN INTERVIEW WITH NATALIE HORVATH

BY SARAH FIELDING

At under thirty students per class, textile/surface design is an exclusive major, and Natalie Horvath, 21, is lucky enough to be a part of it. As president of the Textile and Surface Design club, it seems that Horvath can’t get enough of textiles. I sat down with Horvath to learn more about the artist behind the fibers.

SARAH FIELDING: HOW DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR MAJOR? Natalie Horvath: I’m actually a transfer student. At my past school I took a few screen printing classes and fell in love with it immediately, and I realized that I really enjoyed designing textiles and prints.

So I looked up textile design programs, and FIT just fit the bill.t SF: WHAT IS IT THAT YOU LOVE ABOUT SCREEN PRINTING? NH: I love how your design is transferred directly to fabric.

You can make a design online in seconds, on the Internet or in Photoshop and have it printed. It’s just such an involved process that I enjoy. Burning screens and mixing your own colors, to me, it just feels like the textile really becomes yours.

SF: WHAT KIND OF JOBS COME OUT OF THIS MAJOR AND WHAT WOULD YOU PARTICULARLY WANT TO DO? NH: As far as jobs, I would love to be a print designer in apparel or home design, even. Though it wouldn’t involve screen printing, it would involve creating patterns in repeat.

I’m more interested in being a textile designer for an in-house company than working in a studio setting.

FIT

NOVEMBER 2016

SF: WHAT WOULD YOU DESCRIBE AS YOUR AESTHETIC WHEN IT COMES TO PRINTS? NH: I’m a prepster at heart.

SF: HENCE J. CREW. NH: Yes. So, I like those kind of clean designs that are kind of derived from past textiles. I love looking at ancient textiles. I was really inspired by the history of textile design class I took. I like making old things new again and freshening everything up.

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SF: WHERE ELSE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION? NH: Inspiration is literally everywhere, especially living in Manhattan. I love going to museums. It’s one of my favorite things to do. I also love Pinterest — everything, all the time!

SF: WHY WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO PURSUE THIS MAJOR? NH: I think it’s such a great combination of things and whether you are weaving or screen printing, it is very hands on. It also brings fine arts together in such a way that can be used and not just seen, and I think that is something amazing.

SF: WOULD YOU WANT TO WORK AT A FASHION COMPANY? NH: Yes. I love J. Crew’s prints. They’ve had great prints recently, and I’ve been falling in love with them. I would love to work with someone like that.

SF: HAVE YOU WORKED IN THE INDUSTRY YET, OR HAD ANY RELATED INTERNSHIPS? NH: Yes, I’ve been interning at a company called Holland & Sherry, which is a home interior fabric and wallpaper company. I interned at their studio this past summer where they make handmade wallpaper, and it was an awesome experience. I’m now working there, part-time, in their marketing department, which has been amazing.

SF: HAVE YOU WON ANY AWARDS OR RECOGNITION FOR YOUR WORK? NH: I have. I won the Billie Gordon award this past spring.

ART BY: NATALIE HORVATH PHOTOS BY: HEATHER LEIGH CULLUM

SF: DO YOU HAVE ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO ADD? NH: Can I talk about the club?

SF: YEAH! NH: The Textile and Surface Design club is something me and a few of my classmates brought back. It had been defunct. We thought it was really important to the major to have sort of an outside meeting space where we could discuss work and get ideas. We have open studio days and guest speakers from the industry come in and talk to us about what it’s like to work in the field. It’s just a better environment for things we can’t get done in the classroom, but we would really like to get done while we’re at school.

SF: How many members are there?

NH: Currently, we have about forty members.

If you are interesting in joining the Textile and Surface Design club, please email textile_design@fitnyc.edu.

20 FEATURES

W27

The Times They Are A Changin’

Bob Dylan Becomes First Musician to Win Nobel Prize

BY KAYLA RENSHAW

Bob Dylan has had a successful career as a musician for the past five decades. His talent as a singer and guitarist are paled by his ability as a lyricist. His songs have been the soundtrack of countless lives and have touched the hearts and souls of people across the world. On Oct. 13, Dylan was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature “for having created new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition.” This achievement represents the culmination of his life’s work. Dylan is the first musician to have received the honor since its inception in 1901.

Originally born Robert Allen Zimmerman on May 24, 1941 in Duluth, Minnesota, music played a prominent role in Dylan’s life since childhood. Dylan formed his first band when he was a freshman in high school and at this point he could play both the guitar and harmonica. During this period Dylan heavily drew influence from Elvis Presley and Little Richard.

It was not until he was attending the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis that he began performing folk and country songs at which time he took on the name “Bob Dylan.”

In 1960 Dylan dropped out of college and moved to New York to pursue a career as a musician; frequently performing in folk clubs and coffeehouses throughout Greenwich Village. The village in the 60’s was a hotbed for creative types, so it is no surprise that Dylan ended up making his way there. After receiving a notable review in The New York Times in 1962, Dylan signed a recording contract with Columbia Records and legally changed his surname to Dylan.

In the early 1960’s Dylan’s music was primarily folk and touched on controversial topics — hosting a slew of “protest songs,” a title that he would later break away from. Dylan was strictly accoustic at this time, known for his simultaneous use of guitar and harmonica. In 1965, with his album, “Bringing It All Home,” fans were shocked when they realized that a rock-and-roll band backed him on half of the record, breaking the singer free of the folk label.

Over the next two years, Dylan’s lyrics were analyzed and quoted like never before. This attention is what prompted Dylan to shy away from the spotlight.

During this time, the counterculture movement was popular among the youth, and Dylan was no different from his peers. He has said time and time again that he is a writer and performer, not a civil rights leader; his songs are how he expresses his feelings. Throughout the movement, Dylan sang songs that touched on prominent social issues such as the Vietnam War and Civil Rights, and his words made him a popular choice among the demographic.

He challenged society in a way that hadn’t been done before with lyrics such as, “how many times must the cannon balls fly, before they’re forever banned?”

The 70’s were a decade filled with rock-and-roll for the musician. Dylan released seven albums and made it clear that his passion for pressing social issues was not left behind in the 60’s. One song in particular, Hurricane, was written about professional boxer Rubin “Hurricane” Carter and touched on the athlete’s wrongful conviction in a triple homicide that occurred in 1967. With Dylan’s help, Carter’s case gained national attention, further proving just how

powerful his lyrics were.

In 1989, Dylan was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Bruce Springsteen spoke on his behalf, saying that, "Bob freed the mind the way Elvis freed the body, he invented a new way a pop singer could sound, broke through the limitations of what a recording artist could achieve, and changed the face of rock and roll forever."

Dylan continued to tour and release music throughout the 90’s, but he also took the time to focus on telling the story of his life. “Chronicles: Volume One” was released in the fall of 2004 and was the first part of a three-part memoir series. In 2005, a documentary titled “No Direction Home: Bob Dylan” was released and included Dylan’s first full interview in 20 years, giving fans a rare glimpse into his private life.

In addition to music, Dylan also tried his luck with painting, drawing and writing. His paintings have appeared on the covers of his albums including “Self Portrait” and “Planet Waves.” Dylan has also published six books that have featured his paintings and drawings.

Celebrity persona aside, Dylan has been married twice throughout the years and has four children with Sara Lownds. For such an influential individual, he is quite reserved in nature, and he hardly interacts with his audience when he performs. He is not the type to blow you away with a well-planned acceptance speech, even though he is more than capable of doing so.

Although, there is a first time for everything: in 2015 Dylan shocked journalists during a speech when he was recognized by MusiCares, a charity affiliated with the Grammy Awards, “these songs of mine, they’re like mystery plays, the kind Shakespeare saw when he was growing up. I think you could trace what I do back that far.

They were on the fringes then, and I think they’re on the fringes now.”

This is not the first time that Dylan has received a prestigious award. In 1990 he was named a Commandeur dans l’Ordre des Art et des Lettres, France’s highest cultural honor. In 1991 he was given a Lifetime Achievement Award and in 2012 he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama. Dylan has also been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and has received 18 Grammy awards over the years. Despite receiving backlash from multiple media outlets regarding his qualifications for receiving the Nobel Prize, his music has touched millions of lives and he has consistently been recognized throughout the years for his work.

Even though Dylan took two weeks to respond to the honor, he finally broke his silence on Oct. 29, when he told UK’s Daily Telegraph, “It’s hard to believe.

Whoever dreams about something like that?” He also told the paper that he will accept the prize in person at the award ceremony that is set to take place in December. For now, as the singer said, “All I can do is be me, whoever that is.”

FIT

NOVEMBER 2016

21

The Look For Less: Thrifting In

BY TAYLOR KOONTZ

Being a student in New York City is not easy: classes are long, work days seem even longer and everything is insanely expensive. A night out for dinner can lead to eating dollar slices for the rest of the week, art supplies cost an arm and a leg and rent is way too expensive.

However, one thing you can avoid is spending a fortune updating your winter wardrobe. Taking the time to search through racks of clothing at vintage and thrift stores is worth saving the extra cash. Whether you’re shopping for winter basics or a specific piece, you’re sure to find something cool and totally unique. Here are W27’s favorite thrift/vintage stores in NYC.

Beacon’s Closet Brooklyn-based and femaleowned, Beacon’s Closet has four locations throughout New York City. The store is one of the city’s most popular thrift stores, and for good reason. Not only do they boast a wide selection of clothing, but the store also has an impressive bag and shoe collection. Their inventory is constantly changing due to the high influx of clothing received each day. Beacon’s Closet is a great place to sell clothes and make some extra money.

According to their website, they will pay either 35 percent of the price offered in cash, or 55 percent worth of store credit. Either way, you will be getting a good deal!

Manhattan Location: 10 West 13th Street, New York, NY 10011

No Relation Vintage/L Train Vintage No Relation Vintage, located in the East Village, and L Train Vintage, located in Williamsburg and Bushwick, are known for having some of the most affordable vintage clothes in the city. No Relation is two stories, and it boasts a large inventory that is organized by category.

T-shirts and dresses are priced at $15 or less, and shoes tend to range from $20- $30. L Train Vintage is very similar to No Relation, hosting a large selection with most items priced under $30.

They have plenty of denim, especially Levi’s, as well as military jackets and coats.

Location: No Relation Vintage – 204 1st Avenue, New York NY 10009 L Train Vintage – 1377 Dekalb Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11221 or 629 Grand Street, Williamsburg, NY 11211

The Break Vintage The Break Vintage is a popup shop located in Brooklyn that sources vintage clothing from all over the world.

Their website states, “We up in your city, raiding your thrift stores so you don't have to.” The Break makes it easy for its customers to find interesting, unique pieces without spending hours sifting through racks.

In addition, they have also hosted different events ranging from art shows to happy hours. Although they are only in NYC until early November, you can check out their latest findings on their website.

Location: 84 East 7th Street, New York, NY 10003

St. Luke’s Thrift Store

Locatrion: 86 Dobbin Street, Brooklyn, NY 11222

Located in a basement in the West Village, St. Luke’s is a hole in the wall. However, it is a great place to get good deals on designer and name brand pieces. Although the store is a bit disorganized and may take a while to get through, it offers great deals on clothing and accessories, especially designer shoes.

They also have a home goods section where they sell furniture and other home accessories. Their prices are negotiable, and the employees will bargain with you so that you are able to get the best deal!

AuH20

Location: 487 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10014

Located in the East Village, AuH20 is small compared to most, but don’t let its size fool you. AuH20 is extremely organized with only a few racks to sort through, providing for a quick and easy shopping experience.

Since they are more of a thrift and consignment store rather than a vintage store, their prices are very low, with $5, $10 and $15 racks. They also have shoes, accessories and vintage jewelry.

N Y C PHOTO COURTESY: FLICKR

THRIFTING TIPS: • Make sure to try on clothing before you make a purchase, if possible.

• Check for holes, stains and other damage while you are in the store. If there are any, see if you can negotiate with employees for a lower price.

• Get out of your comfort zone! Thrifting is a great way to find items that are totally PHOTO COURTESY: FLICKR

unique and show off your personality.

22

FEATURES

W27

KENZO X H&M: PERFECT TIMING

BY MEGHAN KANE

It's that time of year again, when we begin to salivate over the drop of H&M’s annual “fast fashion x designer” collaboration. This year’s event, on Nov. 3, was all about Parisian brand Kenzo. H&M honored its collaborator’s heritage, as it has done each year. But there’s a reason why Kenzo is bigger than ever, and it’s not just because of this new accessibility. The core concepts of the brand — excessive prints, Japanese silhouettes, romantic skirts and, of course, the styles from its heyday in the 1980s— are undeniably current.

Kenzo, established by Kenzo Takada in 1970, reached international fame in the 1980s and was known for its colorful animal prints and psychedelic florals. The brand has a history of blending Japanese and European styles while also incorporating Amazonian influences. Takada’s first Parisian boutique was titled “Jungle Jap.” It was decorated with trees, vines and animal skins. By the late 1990s, the brand’s exotic appeal had become too brash for the temperament of the times. After being sold and diversified, Kenzo was forgotten by fans.

Carol Lim and Humberto Leon, founders of cult U.S. retailer Opening Ceremony, took over as

creative directors in 2011 and paved the road to modernity. They were instrumental in helping to guide the label back to the forefront of fashion.

In the Kenzo x H&M collection, striped dresses with layered appearances, both mini and maxi, were adorned by Kenzo’s iconic explosions of flowers and roaring animal prints. One such dress is a tiered, mostly scarlet frock featuring tiger prints in both light pink and scarlet. It also has stripes in glowing neon floral prints and a gem motif, both of which can be seen on various other pieces in the collection. Its long, boxy sleeves and layered skirt are indicative of two trends that were seen at shows for both Fall ‘16 and Spring ‘17; reimagined peasant skirts and kimono-style sleeves. Ruffles on billowing skirts were seen at Tanya Taylor and Zimmerman during this past NYFW and tiered skirts were all over the Fall ‘16 runways at Gucci, Giorgio Armani and Christian Siriano. The wide, Asianinspired sleeve was shown in a number of interpretations at the fall collection for Fenty x Puma and the upcoming spring collections for Andrew Gn, Cynthia Rowley and Balmain. By bringing these two silhouettes together, Kenzo x H&M created a Spanish-Japanese dress

that’s almost like a costume, but still pricey at $549.

The collection was on-trend in so many ways. The sleeves on a selection of blouses and dresses of the same colorful nature stand stiff at the shoulders like the wings of an odd butterfly. Whether we like it or not, maximalism is back.

‘80s influences, specifically in the form of dramatic shoulders, were prevalent in the Fall ‘16 collections at Gucci, Ronald van der Kemp and naturally, at Kenzo. Butterfly accents, while traditionally a symbol of springtime, have also been considered a trend for fall thanks to Valentino, Gucci and Phillipp Plein.

Both designers and consumers are ignoring the rules about seasons and the idea that there is a time and a place for fashion. Maybe it has to do with the befuddling mix of fall, spring and “seasonless” collections that came out recently in response to the “see now, buy now” trend.

But people on the street are wearing whatever colors and prints they want, and they’re wearing them with whatever they want. All of this helped make H&M’s choice for this year’s collaboration a perfect fit for the times. But it’s no longer the 1980s. It is 2016 and Kenzo is with it.

PHOTO COURTESY: ELLE / OLIVER HADLEE PEARCH

“Whether we like it or not, maximalism is back.”

Change for All Women. All Sizes. All Ages.

All Races.

BY TABITHA SLOANE

Why is it that when I walk into a clothing store, or turn on the TV, or even flip through a magazine, I never see women that look like myself?

This question has haunted me for the better half of my life. However, on Oct. 26, when I attended the “Every Beautiful Body Symposium” hosted

by Refinery29, in collaboration with Lane Bryant and Aerie, I reluctantly found support in numbers: 67 and two. 67 being the percent of American women that are above a size 14, and two being the percent of all media imagery that include them.

Stacy London, former co-host of “What Not to Wear,” offered her expertise at the symposium stating that “It’s a common misconception that we all perceive fashion as an industry that runs us, but it doesn’t.” She went on to explain how important it is for women to step off the scale and instead stand up for what they want.

Your voice is your greatest weapon, and companies that fail to create or promote equal representation and inclusive fashion need to start listening. And according to Bryan Bietler,

the Chief Marketing Officer of Lane Bryant, they can’t afford not to.

In fact, the fashion industry’s economic strength has been dwindling significantly, Bietler explained. “There is a huge disconnect between designer and consumer…[before] it was cost prohibitive to give the consumer what they want,” he said, but now, it’s necessary.

Melissa Aronson, known professionally as Emme, the first plus-size supermodel and author, also spoke at the Symposium. She recently launched a program at Syracuse University, her alma mater, called Fashion Without Limits. Fed up with wanting to buy clothing that is on-trend, but not being able to find pieces in her size, Fashion Without Limits is her way of getting to the root of a problem that has been making real women cringe for years.

According to Business Insider, “The program’s curriculum teaches emerging designers how to craft designs for plus-size women,” because, according to Emme, “the general consensus among plus-size women is ‘I am more

fashionable than what you are giving me - no more muumuus.’ The current, matronly one-sized fits all isn’t working.”.

Dominique Norman, a graduate of Washington State University, also decided to take on the industry when she became the first student there to develop plus-sized collection while completing her undergrad degree because “Less than five Universities include plus size clothing in their curriculums.” In a private interview with her, she stressed that most universities aren’t teaching their students how to create clothing larger than a size six, a motivating factor in her decision to start a plus-sized fashion line.

She told Refinery29 that the reasons she started a line that focuses on the 67%, “a.k.a. the oft-neglected majority of shoppers today,” was because I realized that I did not see people who looked like me in my textbooks or in my curriculum, at all. I began asking my professors why we were only making clothes for one kind of woman, especially when most women do

not look like the mannequins we were using. I was faced with the answer that anything larger than a fashion size 8 is not 'industry standard.' We were taught how to make all of our designs based off of a fashion size 8, which in the real world is about a size 2 to 4. I felt like my education was being limited to a single demographic.

Like Stacy London, Bryan Bietler and Emme, Norman has become quite the fashion activist and is currently getting her Master’s at Parsons.

What finally made me realize that my voice could start a revolution was my experience with actress and keynote speaker, Danielle Brooks. Handing her a tissue as she attempted to choke back tears moved me to tears myself.

“Under representation cuts your selfworth,” she explained. And it was at that exact moment when I realized how important it is now, more than ever for change.

Change for all women. All sizes. All ages. All races.

NOVEMBER 2016 23

FIT

Closure of Fashion Design Books: The Breakdown

BY JENNY KIM 400 signatures have been gathered for the petition to prevent the closure of Fashion Design Books — a long-time savior for many FIT students’ due to its close proximity to campus. Empty corners, torn boxes and signs that scream “50% off” on every rack are what’s left of the bookstore. Despite the backlash from students, store manager Alex Salauarria said that it is too late to stop the store from closing, as it is expected to clear out by Nov. 15.

In March, FIT, along with other potential tenants, were contacted and told that the space for Fashion Design Books was up for grabs as the decade-long lease was set to expire. FDB’s owner offered the landlord $24,000 a month—a $10,000 increase from the current rent.

However, FIT counter-offered to $35,000 — too high for FDB to match. The owners didn’t have a choice, and they had to let it go.

The petition seemed to stir quite the storm at FIT, raising

speculations about FIT’s priorities when spending funds. One student expressed her frustrations regarding the lack of updated classroom supplies, “they never use their finances to make our studios better, broken machines and broken irons where boiling water has spewed at the students… desks and chairs in the textile design department that my current professor said they have been using since the time he/she went to school here many, many years ago.”

Sherry Brabham, FIT’s Treasurer and Vice President for Finance and Administration, stated that there has been a major misunderstanding regarding this issue. While agreeing that Fashion Design Books has been a great asset for students, the space is,

after all, an independent store and privately-owned.

The building’s landlord approached FIT about the space and the school saw an opportunity relative to the impending construction of new academic buildings beginning soon.

This is an attractive offer for several reasons. FIT is already space-constrained and has consistently been looking into ways to maximize classroom space. Fashion Design Books' location is ground level, meaning it is easily accessible.

Additionally, for the type of real estate, the price isn't bad.

Bradham said that FIT is looking into using the former bookstore and cafe as a “swing space” to accommodate the construction that will take place behind the Marvin Feldman Center. The front lobby of Feldman will be undergoing changes as well, leaving the Registrar’s office scrambling to find a new location. Brabham said that the new space could also serve as a way to make this transition smoother.

Responding to student complaints about equipment, Brabham said, “FIT has been trying to address these problems already. Equipment should be replaced and FIT is committed to doing that.

We have been taking sets of classrooms and renovating them one by one.”

promised that would not happen as FIT has a contract with Barnes & Noble, but they are considering moving it to street level, thus providing easier access for students.

As for the overall petition, Brabham said, “students want the facts and they need to discern where the truth is. There is a lot of misinformation — it’s regrettable. Nevertheless, Fashion Design Books store should be proud for the role they played at FIT.” Sadly for many students who had come to rely on FDB, no plans have been made to re-open the store at another location.

FIT also stated that they will work closely with Barnes & Noble in the future to carry supplies that students need, although some students have speculated that Barnes & Noble may also be closing its doors in the future. Brabham

Thousands of Gay and Bisexual Men to be Pardoned by The “Alan Turing Law"

BY ANDREA NAVARRO

On Oct. 19, the British government passed the “Alan Turing Law,” posthumously pardoning thousands of gay and bisexual men for what until 1967 was a crime in England and Wales — gay sex, or as it was previously referred to, “gross indecency.”

Alan Turing is best known for his efforts in ending World War II with the breaking of the German Enigma Code. It is estimated that he shortened the length of the war by 2-4 years. Turing was a brilliant Mathematician and is regarded by many as the father of computer science. He was convicted of “gross indecency” in 1952 and shortly after decided to be chemically castrated rather than going to jail.

Two years later, Turing killed himself at the age of 41. In 2013, he was granted a posthumous royal pardon — 61 years after his death.

Rachel Barnes, Alan Turing’s great niece, has been heavily involved in the campaign to pardon other gay and bisexual men for a long time — launching a petition in January 2015 that gained over 500,000 signatures over a two-week span.

Barnes stated that, “as Alan Turing received a pardon, it is absolutely right that those who were similarly convicted should receive a pardon as well.”

She also added that the passing of the law made for a “momentous day for all those who have been convicted under the historic laws, and for their

families. The gross indecency law ruined people's’ lives.”

For many, though, Turing, and the rest of the men whose only crime was having consensual sex with other men, don’t deserve a pardon, but an apology instead.

mention of an offense from criminal record checks.

Although the past can’t be rewritten, it’s important to take note of the efforts the British government has done to push history in the right direction.

Hopefully, other countries will take notice and abolish outdated laws that no longer serve a purpose and never did in the first place.

“I was not guilty of anything,” George Montague, 93, a gay activist and author who lives in Brighton, England told BBC about being convicted of gross indecency in the 1970s. Montague added that Turing is a hero and he doesn’t need to be pardoned either. “What was he guilty of? He was guilty of the same as what they call me guilty of: being born only able to fall in love with another man.”

Consensual sex between men over 21 was decriminalized in England and Wales in 1967, Scotland in 1980 and Northern Ireland in 1982.

According to the New York Times, the Turing Law was pushed by John Sharkey, a member of the House of Lords who estimated that 15,000 of the 65,000 men convicted under the law were still alive.

Charged under the “gross indecency” law, these men had the opportunity to apply to British Home Office and have their names cleared through a “disregard” process that is available. According to The Independent, this process would remove any

PHOTO COURTESY: ETSY.COM

24 HAUTE CULTURE

Concert Review:

BY ERIN TAYLOR

On Oct. 25, LANY and Transviolet took New York City by storm when they performed at Webster Hall.

The concert was filled with an energy so great that it was tangible from the very beginning.

From waiting in line, to the performances, to the after show chaos, excitement filled the air. Both LANY and Transviolet had high hopes for the show at Webster Hall.

After the first song, both bands paused for a moment to talk about the significance of what it meant to them to be performing at the iconic location. Paul Kline, the lead singer for LANY, had mentioned how much of an honor it was for him to be able to play on the same stage

LANY

as so many of his favorite artists. Kline’s excitement translated to his exaggerated spastic dance movements and frequent trips into the crowd.

LANY has come a long way since they officially formed as a band in 2014, and playing Webster Hall was a big milestone for them. The emotional sentiment was obvious between the band members — at one point Kline hugged bass guitarist, Les Priest. Videos were featured in the background and light displays washed over the crowd, creating a memorable experience.

W27

The concert left me with an overwhelming sense of euphoria. I went in with fairly low expectations and was pleasantly surprised. LANY definitely proved themselves worthy of seeing the second time around.

LANY did not sell out Webster Hall like they had hoped, but still brought in a large crowd.

PHOTOS COURTESY: ERIN TAYLOR

Upcoming Events Concerts

Shows

Troye Sivan - Terminal 5 (Nov. 15)

“Oh, Hello on Broadway” – Lyceum Theatre (Until Jan 8)

CRX - Bowery Ballroom (Nov. 18)

Dorrance Dance with Toshi Reagan & BIGLovely - Joyce Theater (Nov. 15 – 27)

Strfkr - Music Hall of Williamsburg (Nov. 25) Metric - Music Hall of Williamsburg (Nov. 29) Bastille - Bowery Ballroom (Dec. 05)

Movies

Young Thug - Terminal 5 (Dec. 18)

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find them (Nov. 18)

Art

Manchester by the Sea (Nov. 18)

“The Art of Dance” Exhibition - Ivy Brown Gallery (Nov. 9 – 30) “On the Inside: A Group Show of LGBTQ Artists Who Are Currently Incarcerated” Exhibit - Abrons Arts Center (Nov. 5 – Dec. 18) Missoni’s “Surface Conversion” Exhibition - Missoni's Madison Ave Store (Unitl Jan. 29)

Rules Don’t Apply (Nov. 23) Allied (Nov. 23) Jackie (Dec. 2)

NOVEMBER 2016 25

FIT

ROLLED& NITRO ICE CREAM

My Dining Experience at NINJA NEW YORK

BY LAU CHEUK-IN (CHERRY)

BY CAMERON HEANEY

Walking down St. Marks Street, you could very easily pass Lab-320 without even knowing it, with its underground location. However, once you see the neon sign boasting the name, you know you've made it to one of the coolest (literally) and trendiest ice cream shops in the city.

If you haven't seen "rolled" or "nitro" ice cream on your Instagram feed, you're probably living under a rock, and you are definitely missing out! These traditional Thai styles of making ice cream have recently become a huge hit in NYC and other major cities across the country, and for good reason. Not only is it fun to watch it being made, but it tastes fantastic too!

Lab-320 offers both Thai inspired flavors such as green tea and Thai tea, as well as traditional ice cream flavors including a wide variety of toppings to choose from. The ice cream making process is fascinating enough in itself. According to Forbes, if you order a flavor such as strawberry rolled ice cream, the creator of your sweet treat takes a whole strawberry as well as liquified ice cream and pours it onto a plate well below zero degrees. They then proceed to chop up the strawberry or whatever flavor you ordered, and evenly spread it across the cold plate before rolling it into perfect tubes of ice cream. The serving size is quite large, so be sure to bring a friend to share it with.

Nitro ice cream is Lab-320's other specialty. Also hailing from Thailand, this dessert is creamier than normal ice cream due to the rapid freezing of the fat and water particles, according to Instructables.com. The process takes place right in front of you, so you can see exactly what goes into your ice cream and it is always fresh to order. The shop offers different flavor combinations while also giving guests the option to customize flavors and toppings.

The perk of getting your rolled ice cream fix at Lab-320 is that it hasn't been as publicized as its rival “10 Below,” which attracts long lines of people that wait up to an hour for their dessert. Lab-320 will rarely have longer than a 10 minute wait, and the employees are very enthusiastic about making ice cream.

If you haven’t already added Thai rolled and nitro ice cream to your food bucket list, now is definitely the time. In addition to tasting amazing, the trend contributes to the craze of different cultural desserts finding a place in American society.

Lab320 is located at 27 St. Marks Place.

“The process takes place right in front of you, so you can see exactly what goes into your ice cream and it is always fresh to order. ”

Would you dine in a restaurant where waiters are dressed as ninjas and sudden attacks are a large part of the experience? If the answer is yes, then you are in luck.

The Japanese-themed restaurant Ninja New York, located in SoHo, is unlike any other dining experience in New York City. The restaurant thrives on excitement and keeps you on your toes, with ninjas lurking in corners waiting for the perfect opportunity to jump out and scare their next victim. To get inside, you have to walk through a dark and narrow hallway, which, right off the bat lends a mysterious vibe.

Within the first minute of entering the restaurant, it is easy to tell that you are about to encounter something completely out of the norm. Instantly, you are transported into a whole new world — a village in the feudal Japan. The space is divided into individual Japaneseinspired rooms that include culturally authentic lanterns and wood sliding doors, all of which

make the experience feel even more real. Some “ninjas” carry a lightning sword while others perform magic tricks in front of the diners. Throughout my meal, I was subject to many “tricks” which startled me on more than one occasion. The food is well presented and congruous with the ninja vibe.

Smoke and fire are as part of the cuisine as the Prime Ribeye Steak, which is actually set ablaze in front of the guests. Being seated so close to the action, the heat from the fire pillar warmed my skin as the fire enchanted me with its magnificent splendor. Even my order of edamame came with some tricks from a ninja.

To me, dining is not only about enjoying the food, but also the atmosphere you are in, and Ninja New York has found a unique and fun way to combine both. Not only is the cuisine delicious, but the experience is one that you surely won’t forget.

NINJA NEW YORK 25 HUDSON STREET, NY, 10013 ninjanewyork.com

26 HAUTE CULTURE

W27

Doctor Strange Science Meets Magic

BY DANIEL NISSIM

On Nov. 4, Marvel Studios released “Doctor Strange,” its latest addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

The film, a deviation from Marvel’s science-based cinematic collection, is a welcome change. Before I got the chance to see the film, I dialed into a phone interview with “Doctor Strange’s” science and philosophy consultant, Adam Frank.

Frank, aa professor of astrophysics at the University of Rochester, was brought on to consult by Director Scott Derrickson. The major obstacle for Frank was two-fold: how to incorporate “Dr. Strange” in a largely science-based MCU and how to merge science with the mystical abilities with the sorcerer supreme. “All the other Marvel movies are very ‘sciency,’ right.

They took the gods of 'Thor' and made them into super-advanced aliens. But you couldn’t really do that with Doctor Strange without doing too much damage to the character, so that was the conundrum. So that was why I was brought in because I’m a physicist, and a I’m an atheist. I have an interest in what I would call ‘human spiritual endeavor,” said Frank when interviewed.

A major component in explaining Doctor Strange’s abilities was exploring consciousness. “The open question here is really a philosophical question, not necessarily directly a scientific one. And it’s the question of the nature of consciousness, or in philosophy it’s what we call the mindbody problem. We don’t even have a scientific theory on consciousness.

We’re not even close…. So a lot of what I wanted to do, you know in our discussions, was about how to ground Doctor Strange’s powers in the open about consciousness — the fact that there isn’t a scientific theory

for that means that’s the sort of place Studios logo filled the screen where you could put him and that could really be the source of where his Simply put: “Doctor Strange” does not powers emanate from,” Frank added. disappoint. Benedict Cumberbatch’s portrayal as the highly egotistically Dr. Looking at how “Doctor Strange” can Stephen Strange was refreshing. There have a larger impact beyond the silver are shades of Robert Downey Jr.’s Tony screen, Frank discussed Marvel’s past Stark, but Strange is a unique addition successes. “The Marvel movies, and to the MCU. As the self-obsessed the Netflix ones also, have brought surgeon loses the use of his hands, we up deeper issues. You look at ‘Jessica see one man’s journey as he rises as a hero. Other cast members of note include Rachel Adams as Christine Palmer, Strange’s loveinterest. Palmer acts as an anchor to reality as Strange continues to explore the unkown.

Jones’ and the representation of feminist issues or ‘Luke Cage’ and issues associated with Black America.

That sometimes these movies can go beyond just being superhero movies, and I think ‘Doctor Strange’ has that possibility of getting people to think about, for example, the nature of consciousness,” Frank explained.

Frank also went on to explore the science-fiction genre. “It’s the nature of good science fiction, of intelligent science fiction, to consider the possibilities — to extrapolate…

In many ways, in many examples, you see science fiction leading the way in imagining the consequences of different kinds of technologies or scientific ideas becoming instantiated in a society,” Frank added.

After my interview with Adam Frank, I was more than eager to see “Doctor Strange.” I was able to find my way into an early press screening and sat at full attention as the new Marvel

Strange finds his way to Nepal seeking KamarTaj, the place that offers a cure for his damaged hands. It is there where he meets Mordo (Chiwetel Ejiefor), Wong (Benedict Wong) and most importantly, The Ancient One (Tilda Swinton)—three characters critical to Strange’s success at Kamar-Taj. Swinton’s casting as the traditionally male character paid off as her asexual acting schools lend to establishing an aura about the character. The king of villainy, Mads Mikkelsen, provides Cumberbatch’s Doctor Strange with an antagonist. As always, Mikkelsen nails the role with

equal parts creepiness and fear.

By far, the visuals are the highlight of the film — think “Inception” times ten.

I don’t suggest seeing the film, or really any film for that matter, in 3D. The intense visuals are more than enough to send your mind in a tailspin. Frank

discussed the digital artwork involved in the process. “The representation is really a place where the art comes in. They did a beautiful job of, that I don’t think I could have provided sort of representing artistically what it would mean to unzip reality — what does it mean to fold space and time back on themselves. So that’s a place where…art is going to have to lead the charge to giving us creative representations for things that, unless you’re a mathematician, you really can’t see. And when you’re seeing it as a mathematician, you’re seeing it through the lens of mathematics.”

Another great example of this successful translation of science to film visuals is Christopher Nolan’s “Interstellar.”

“Doctor Strange” will do for MCU what “Guardians of the Galaxy” did two years ago. It has brought something completely new to the table that’s nothing short of visually stunning.

The end-credits scenes clearly cement Cumberbatch’s Doctor Strange as a major player in Marvel’s plans for the future, and I can’t wait to see how this soon to be Sorcerer Supreme changes the game when put together with the other heroes of the MCU.

PHOTOS COURTESY: MARVEL

NOVEMBER 2016 27

FIT

The Gallery The Gallery is a new section we've added to W27. Each month, The Gallery will feature work from two student artists from across the many majors of FIT. If you'd like to see your work in this section, please send examples of your art to w27_newspaper@fitnyc.edu, with the subject heading "The Gallery."

Sofya Dudnik (aka Sofi Du) Major: Fine Arts See more artwork on Instagram @sofi_du_nyc

BLUE GIRL “My series of “Sofi Girls” represents a girl who is directing her focus to her inner world and looking for a harmony within herself. My motto is “Du what you love” because I strongly believe that everyone should follow their passion.”

GREEN GIRL

SCALE GIRL

“To be able to depict the glamour, styles and evolution of fashion keeps me on my toes and serves as a constant inspiration for my work.”

Monet Kifner Major: Fashion Illustration

28

HOFIT

W27

HOFIT BY: ANDY MITCHELL

Phuong Vo

Gabby Manfredi

Evan Angelastro

Hometown: Saigon, Vietnam

Hometown: Long Island, NY

Hometown: Westport, Connecticut

Major: Fashion Design

Major: Photography

Major: Photography

What or who keeps you motivated?

I tend to look into pop cultures of the past, especially with movies and music, to look for inspiration and gain knowledge. That’s part of my motivation. The other part is my parents. They’ve always been really supportive with my career choice.

Should fashion design majors be expected to be more stylish dressers?

I don’t think fashion design majors should be expected to be better dressers as we have a massive amount of work and we always have to stay late after school. It requires comfortable and functional clothes.

In my opinion, people should look at us as the ones who create the vision and the beauty of clothing, rather than models.

What’s one thing you miss about where you’re from?

I miss a lot of things from Vietnam since I moved here. Probably the weather. The weather in Saigon is very distinguished.

We only have 2 seasons, sunny and rainy.

It’s hot and humid, and the rain is long and pouring. I miss riding my motorbike in the rain. Something about the rain there is very beautiful and poetic. It makes me nostalgic whenever I think about it.

What kind of photography do you want to go into?

If you could shoot photos of one person, who would it be?

I’m a fine arts photographer, so I kind of just freelance. I really want to have shows that go off in the galleries in SoHo, Brooklyn and Chelsea. I just want to have shows, show my work and get paid for it.

The most normal looking tourist on the face of the planet. I like very bland looking people in funny situations.

When do you usually shoot?

I predominantly shoot during the golden era which is around when the sun is setting, so you get the best color and shadows for your subject. I mostly shoot outside. I don’t shoot in the studio as much.

Do you usually shoot in black and white or color and why?

I shoot exclusively in color because the way I see the rest of the world is in color obviously, and color has always been a big decision making factor of when and where I will take a photo.

NOVEMBER 2016 29

FIT

What It Will Take To Make America Great Again Just before 3 a.m. on Nov. 9, Donald J. Trump made his first speech as the President-elect of the United States.

It was clear that he was deeply moved by having just won and was, to the surprise of many, quite conciliatory. It was a side of Trump we had seen once before: when Senator Cruz conceded the Republican nomination, Trump’s speech was heartfelt, he stayed on script and on message and actually addressed his former opponent respectfully. When he made that speech, many hoped that Trump had dialed down his rhetoric and was turning over a new leaf. Not surprisingly, however, that was not the case, and it soon became clear that nothing had changed. So when he finished his victory speech early this morning, Democrats and Republicans alike were left questioning, yet again, if this will be the Trump that takes office, or did he just pull the wool over our collective eyes yet again?

Whether or not Trump set the tone for his presidency with that speech remains to be seen, but what is clear is the heartbreak, shock and fear felt by so many around the world. Here, in the city, the mood was especially somber. As the nation begins to digest and process the idea of a Trump presidency, the real question on everyone’s mind is, what’s next?

The first person to be elected that has neither any military or political experience, (which was actually what appealed to so many that are fed up with the government and sick of the status quo) Trump was consistently vague throughout his campaign when it came to actual policy. And it is because of this, among other things, that so many Americans are feeling insecure about their personal futures and that of our country as well. There are a host of grave issues facing us including the struggling economy, the threat of terrorism, our infrastructure and a fractured and divided nation.

Trump made quite a few promises to the American people, without mentioning any plans. When he steps into office, his voters will be waiting for him to make good on those promises.

BY NERMEEN ILEIWAT

In 2008 and 2012, the state of the economy was the predominant issue for voters, and it has remained in the forefront throughout this election as well. Regardless of the turnaround experienced under President Obama, Trump’s campaign was often focused on berating his policies and promising to undo them. What is lacking, however, is what he plans to replace them with. Despite the unemployment rate having dropped to five percent, many working-class families are not making ends meet.

Non-college educated white men and women were largely responsible for getting Trump elected. And it is these same men and women who are really counting on him to strengthen the economy by way of manufacturing jobs, which he promised to bring back. Economic experts, however, don’t believe that this is possible. MIT economics professor David Autor explained to CNNMoney that “Many of the jobs lost were in factories that made toys, clothing, furniture and other labor-intensive industries, which were relatively low-skilled. The manufacturing jobs that return will involve more technology and require more education and training.” He also pointed out that Americans, especially those that are poor and middle-class, benefit from cheaper goods that are made overseas. Items made in the U.S. will probably be more expensive and “You’ll see a huge increase in the cost of living,” he said. Trump has also suggested he would apply a complete tax reform, which includes eliminating estate taxes. This reform is suggested to set back the United State’s federal revenue between $4.4 trillion and $5.9 trillion, as reported by the Tax Foundation. According to NPR.org, “Trump’s plans could easily damage the economy,” creating “only 1.4 percent average growth per year over the next decade and lead to several years of negative employment growth.”

Mexico pay for it). He has also taken a hardline against accepting refugees.

Trump claimed that there is no system for vetting refugees and promised to suspend immigration altogether from “areas in the world when there is a proven history of terrorism against the United States,” he said in a speech on immigration and terrorism. But there has been a vetting process in place for thirty years, and it was reworked following 9/11. Not only has America agreed to accept only 65 thousand out of the 4.8 million that have been displaced, but they are some of the most heavily vetted people that enter this country. Trump has painted a picture that creates the illusion that these refugees pose a threat, one that only he can fix. He has also expressed a desire to increase deportation rates of illegal immigrants. This has left millions of Americans in fear and feeling that their future is uncertain.

And not just illegal immigrants.

(Think about the American born children of illegal immigrants who are citizens but might lose their parents if they are deported.)

Another issue that took center stage throughout the election was immigration. The Syrian refugee crisis and the impending threat of terrorism have fueled new fears for many Americans, which Trump has played on since he began his bid for the presidency.

One of the cornerstones of his campaign has been building a wall on the Mexican-American border (and making

The issue that is unique to this election is citizen dissatisfaction.

Four out of ten Americans were unable to choose between Clinton and Trump because they didn’t want either candidate to be their president.

Overall satisfaction has not been this low in over two decades. Only 43 percent of Democrats were satisfied with their choice of candidates and only 40 percent of Republicans were satisfied with their candidate choice, according to the PEW Research

The issue that is unique to this election is citizen dissatisfaction.

One of the most important issues of our time and one that has been on the minds of every American is terrorism, with the threat of an attack hanging over our heads. While Trump has expressed his passion regarding ending terrorism and fighting ISIS, he has not been clear on how he plans to do so. He has made statements that allude to the fact that, if anyone can do it, its him. He infamously stated that he knows “more about ISIS than the Generals do, believe me” and that he would “bomb the shit out of them.”

Though the latter is a great sentiment, it is a little more complicated than that. As our commander-in-chief, Trump will have to come up with a course of action that is both effective and plausible, working in tandem with these generals that he apparently knows so much more than.

Center. This is likely why voter turnout was extremely low with 46.9 percent of eligible voters failing to show up at the polls. While Secretary Clinton won the popular vote, she became the fifth candidate ever to have done so while also losing the election.

This dissatisfaction became even more clear in the 24 hours following Trump’s stunning upset with protests breaking out across the country. In Manhattan, thousands gathered in Columbus Circle by Trump Hotel and on Fifth avenue outside of Trump Tower where he is living in the interim months. Chanting “Trump is not my President,” protesters literally shut down the street. Even important and high-level members of his own party have spoken out against him. Perhaps the most notable has been House Speaker Paul D. Ryan, but he is just one of many. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said that he is not interested in pursuing any of Trump’s proposals. Though the Republicans will now control Congress having won the majorities in both the House and the Senate, Trump’s volatile relationship with key members of the party will make passing certain legislation difficult. Whether or not we will have a Washington that still can’t get things done remains to be seen.

The country is divided. Minorities, especially, feel ostracized and unwelcome in their own home.

Trump’s campaign has spawned this sentiment. Throughout it he has criticized Hispanics and Muslims, refused to condemn his white supremacist supporters, made fun of a disabled reporter, and was accused of sexual assault by 12 women. To call him a polarizing figure might even be an understatement. But now that he has won the election and will take office as the leader of the free world in a few short months, we have to have hope that the hate and vitriol he spewed throughout his campaign was just a way for him to gain support by playing into the prejudices that exist in the darkest corner of some people’s minds. Because it will be up to him as President to unite a country divided by his own doing. As President Obama poignantly said, “We are actually all on the same team... We are not Democrats first. We are not Republicans first. We are Americans first.”

30 FIT SPEAKS

W27

NOT FALL-ING FOR THE CITY

BY TABITHA SLOANE

It’s officially fall when I’m surrounded by familiar faces tucked into sweatshirts and blankets, gathered in a backyard under the stars. Feet are resting on the brick foundation of a bonfire, a marshmallow is roasting over the flames and a combination of grey smoke and the sweet smell of dewy grass fill the air. At least, before moving to the city, these were the indicators that fall was finally upon us and it was time to break out those puffer jackets and UGG boots. Consuming anything and everything pumpkin spiced was now an obligation, not a suggestion.

Thankfully, I know that I am not the only one experiencing FOMO, (fear-of-missing-out) after moving to New York City and suddenly being away from those crisp fall nights. Halie Retterath, FBM major from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Gracie Jenkins, TDM major from Amarillo, Texas, also struggle to replicate the home-style charm of their own fall traditions.

For Retterath, her fall traditions are strongly rooted within her community. Every Saturday, she used to go with her parents to a farmer’s market that takes place at Falls Park. They would stop by their favorite booths that serve wood fire pizza and fresh fruits and veggies, pick out sunflowers, and enjoy the progressive color changes in the leaves at a nearby coffee shop when they finished. Retterath explained, “after [the farmer's market] we used to visit Josiah’s Coffee Shop, which is my favorite little coffee shop in town, and then we would head home to make pumpkin bread.”

as bowls for the soup.

As of now, Jenkins has yet to try and master her mother’s recipe. As far as decorating goes, she “doesn’t have a porch to decorate, and it’s not the same without [her] family.”

Fall is different for everyone although traditions are what bring people together.

Whether that’s achieved through making s’mores around a bonfire, indulging in homemade soups, spending the day at the farmer’s market, or decorating the porch, families, friends and communities pay tribute to old memories by recreating them time and time again.

It’s now officially fall and pumpkin patches have been replaced by the nearest grocery store, kitchen stoves and microwaves are the closest thing we're getting to an open flame because of fire hazard regulations and car fumes and pizza have replaced the sweet smells of nature. Unfortunately, Time Square billboards are the closest things we will get to stars.

As for Retterath, Jenkins and I, we won’t let geography keep us from enjoying this time of year. Even though New York doesn’t make it easy to cross off everything on our fall to-do lists, with new friends and a new city, we have tried different ways to celebrate the changing of seasons.

It’s not the fall we are used to, but it sure makes for a fun adventure.

Retterath takes her coffee serious, so it has been a mission of hers to find a comparable coffee shop in the city. It must offer the same value and atmosphere as the shop back home. So far, the only place that comes close is Madame Espresso, which she says makes “a mean café miel, which is my go-to back home.” However, she has yet to find a great farmer’s market with scenery and treats as great as her hometown’s — she is still on the hunt.

As for Jenkins, family is at the center of all her favorite fall traditions. Jenkins explained that in Texas, it is customary to decorate the porch with the family throughout the fall. Porches are dressed in lights and novelty decorations, carved pumpkins and hay are arranged on the steps and a wreath hangs on each door.

The Jenkins family is a great example of the “go big or go home” mentality — taking pumpkin carving to the next level. Like many other families in Texas, gutting the biggest pumpkin in the patch is just the start of creating the “best fall soup.” Not every soup is the same, but her family stews a pot all day, filling the house with its mouthwatering smells. And as they play the waiting game, other little pumpkins are carved that will serve PHOTO COURTESY: TABITHA SLOANE

FIT

NOVEMBER 2016

31

THANKSGIVING FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS EXPERIENCES, TESTIMONIES AND SUGGESTIONS

BY ANIL SINGH

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, having some time off from school is all most students can think about. However, while many American students will go back home to indulge in turkey and partake in various traditions, others will spend this time alone in the dorms, with barely any indication that it is even a holiday. When it comes to international students, specifically, how we view and spend/celebrate this occasion greatly varies. Some of us are influenced by the excitement around us and join in, while some don’t think it is significant enough to bother participating in any of the traditions.

Thanksgiving is an American holiday, so it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that international students and other foreigners rarely know much, if anything, about it and how it is celebrated. For me, as a kid growing up in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), I always knew what Thanksgiving was and when it was coming around. The majority of television channels there are of American origin, and so I was exposed to their holidays and traditions. For as long as I can remember, I believed that Thanksgiving in America was a gathering of people with tons of food on a table. That’s what I would often see when it was portrayed in movies and TV shows. The significance of a turkey or ham also was very evident and often seemed to be an important element of the celebrations.

and my classmates more time to travel and to enjoy any family gatherings during the break. It also appeared as though most of my American counterparts took the journey back to their respective hometowns to spend that time with their families. I, however, spent the break exploring the city.

The international student body here at FIT is extremely diverse and so is how they choose to celebrate. After speaking with other international students, it became apparent that while some have chosen to assimilate and join in on the festivities, Thanksgiving is of no significance to others.

“...most of my American counterparts took the journey back to their respective hometowns to spend the break with their families.

I, however, spent the break exploring the city.”

Now in the BVI, the idea and even celebration of Thanksgiving has been adopted by many of the residents in a rather shallow manner. I can tell you this from years of witnessing it. The main reason people there even consider celebrating Thanksgiving is for the chance of having a variety of foods at one’s disposal. So, most of the BVI’s version of a Thanksgiving pays little, if any, homage to what the holiday actually represents. Rather it is used more as an opportunity for a social gathering. However, one could argue that some modern Americans “celebrate” Thanksgiving for the same shallow reason, giving little thought to what the holiday One student from Japan expressed that truly represents. she admired the idea of a holiday such as Thanksgiving in America. She told me that I have never been one to indulge in she is very fond of having the opportunity holiday festivities. And I most definitely for family gatherings because in Japan, never joined in with friends and family there aren’t holidays that are family back home in the BVI to eat food just oriented. Last Thanksgiving, she actually because it was “Thanksgiving” — attended a house party where her and other something I continued with during my Japanese students celebrated their own first Thanksgiving in America last year. version of the holiday. This year, she is very It was surprising, however, to see how excited that her mom is coming to visit her big of a deal the celebrations were to my from Japan during the break, and they are American professors and classmates. I planning to take a road trip and do some had one professor cancel our class a week sightseeing. before Thanksgiving just to give himself

Likewise, a Swedish student expressed that she rather enjoyed the celebrations. This year she’ll be spending Thanksgiving break in Ohio with the family that hosted her when she was an exchange student from 2009-2010. She added that in Sweden they don’t celebrate Thanksgiving, but she thinks it’s a “cute” holiday and that she liked that families come together and express thanks.

Though there were many international students that have adopted American traditions and some that even came up with their own, I also encountered some who have barely even given it a second thought.

One student from South America stated that he doesn’t care much for the celebrations as it was never a tradition back home. Though he admits to be being influenced by his peers now as a student here in America, he still doesn’t see himself wanting to be a part of it. He was, however, emphatic that he’d never turn down the opportunity to eat turkey, one of his favorite foods.

As an international student myself, I can definitely see why foreigners have the need to try new things and see what is out there. Being in a new country with different opportunities and other things that we never had available back home is quite attractive and hard to ignore. So for this Thanksgiving, why not try something new, something different? Go and see what it is like to eat so much you fall into a food coma, or join a friend at their family home and see that you are not the only one whose family is dysfunctional. You might actually enjoy it!

However, because Thanksgiving is very family-oriented, and many of us international students do not have family here, this time of year can often be daunting. Luckily, New York City is home to a plethora of other Thanksgiving-related festivities and traditions. Perhaps one of the best known is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which celebrates its 90th anniversary this year. With giant character balloons, celebrity appearances and musical guests, this parade attracts people from all over and of all ages. Also, many restaurants will be open and featuring Thanksgiving specialty menus that will hopefully give you a taste of what you’d find at a family dinner table gathering.

After dinner, you can take a stroll over to Rockefeller Center to do some ice skating.

But if the opportunity arises, and you are invited to join some classmates over the break, you should definitely accept. Give yourself the chance to do something new!

32 STYLE ON 27

W27

STYLE ON 27

BY CARMEN LI

Winter is Coming

EUN IM, FBM

ROY HINTON, ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT

FREDERICK MILLER, FD

Where did you get your coat/ Jacket? What’s your go-to item for the upcoming winter?

Where did you get your coat/ Jacket? What’s your go-to item for the upcoming winter?

Where did you get your coat/ Jacket? What’s your go-to item for the upcoming winter?

Where did you get your coat/ Jacket? What’s your go-to item for the upcoming winter?

“I got my jacket for Buffalo Exchange. My to-go item is definitely wired jacket. I love this army jacket, and I also have a jean jacket that my friend screen printed on. I love to make thing my own. ”

“My coat is from a Korean brand, SJSJ. Mostly I’ll choose a down coat, because it’s freezing outside. I usually wear a lightweight jacket under my wool coat that I can warm up easily or I just wear a heavy down coat.”

“My jacket is from Zara. I try not to focus on brand, but on style. As long as the item is good and affordable, I will buy it. A long winter coat with a good pattern, and that’s what I’m looking for now!”

“This coat is from Baserange, and they do all organic fashion.

I got it for $150 on simple sale down in SoHo! So, for winter, I’m trying to pick up some tabby gloves by Martin Maison Margiela. I love the boots, but the gloves are little bit more accessible.”

SOPHIA DI RADO, TEXTILE/SURFACE DESIGN

JUYEON JIN, FD

KANEISHA BRIGHTWELL, FD

7.

CHIHEE HAN, FD

LUCY BORDEN, PHOTOGRAPHY

Where did you get your coat/ Jacket? What’s your go-to item for the upcoming winter?

Where did you get your coat/ Jacket? What’s your go-to item for the upcoming winter?

Where did you get your coat/ Jacket? What’s your go-to item for the upcoming winter?

Where did you get your coat/ Jacket? What’s your go-to item for the upcoming winter?

“This coat is from Madewel. For the go-to item, I’ll definitely choose a piece of skinny woven scarf. It’s warmer and easy to match.”

“I bought it at a thrift store.

Definitely the bomber and the hoodie. Sometime I just wear a oversize scarf that I can just pull up as a hood. My head gets cool because of my short hair.”

“My coat is from ASOS. I usually go for anything like oversize in the winter. This is a size 10 as well. I like anything that is bigger since we have to layer it up in the winter.t”

“The coat is H&M. I’ll say fur jacket and a nice pair of suede gloves. It doesn’t have to be a real fur — just a nice warm and puffy jacket will be good for winter.”