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Written by Leah Sininsky
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Monday, 08 March 2010 03:34 |
Alexandra Bloom is a sophomore at Binghamton University in New York. In addition to being my closest confidante, Alex is a style icon on the rise. She has the unique ability to make seemingly un-workable clothing and accessories blend together seamlessly. The staple of Alex's style is without a doubt the hand-made hair-clips that she sports everyday. Her creations are diverse, fabulous, and most importantly, a product of her own labor. Here, Alex gives us the inside scoop on the crafting hobby that caters to her self-described "daring" style.
1. What's the first thing you ever made that you were proud of?
The first gummy bear and Swedish fish bobby pins brought me a lot of pride because people would compliment them and be astonished that it was actual candy and that I had made it myself.
2. What is it about crafting that you love so much?
My favorite thing about crafting is that it gives me a wonderful sense of accomplishment, self worth, and enjoyment. I love looking at my collection and reflecting on the exciting moment when I had the idea to create each one of them. Crafting is something that I can do when I need to change my focus, and be creative. On top of the therapeutic experience of crafting, I have something concrete to show for my time and effort. When I wear a handmade hair clip I feel great pride and joy in showing it off to the world.
3. Do you have aspirations of selling your pieces? If so, how would you go about it?
I have often considered selling my creations, yet since each one is an original item, I have a hard time imagining parting with any of them. But, think at some point, I would bring my creations to an arts fair, or post them online.
Image courtesy of Alexandra Bloom
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Written by Leah Sininsky
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Saturday, 06 March 2010 15:33 |
On Thursday, February 25th in the Trabant multi-purpose rooms, Whitney Thompson, the cycle 10 winner of America's Next Top Model, shared the following statistic: "More young girls are afraid of being fat than they are of nuclear war, cancer and their parents dying."
This is just as true as it is shocking. Thompson's claim to fame is the celebrity status she gained as the first plus-size winner of the popular reality show. However, the message she relays to crowded rooms as a spokeswoman is much more important than her strut down the catwalk. "Healthy is beautiful," is the philosophy that Thompson both lives by and hopes to ingrain in the minds of impressionable young girls.
Thompson is not an advocate for "being fat," nor does she insist that there is only one way to live a healthy lifestyle. Quite simply, she wants to change the diluted perception that anyone can attain the "perfect" bodily proportions of the women who fill the pages of fashion magazines. "No one looks like that," explained Whitney.
Recently, Victoria's Secret released their "Swim 2010" catalog. In the past, the company has been known to feature models with reasonably realistic feminine bodies. However, the model used for the cover of this particular catalog was so prepubescent looking that her picture has circulated in child pornography. As a result of this single photograph, Thompson says, "I will never wear Victoria's Secret ever again." Though she claims to like their clothing, Thompson recognizes that the only way to change the fashion industry is to stop endorsing products that perpetuate the idea that a size 6 is "plus size."
During the week of February 21st, National Eating Disorder Awareness Week (NEDAW), NEDAC, the University of Delaware's National Eating Disorder Awareness club, sponsored several events to teach students about the gravity of this issue and to promote positive body image. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, HELP IS AVAILABLE. Contact the Wellspring Student Wellness Program at (302)-831-3457. And, always remember that healthy is indeed beautiful.
Whitney, with our Executive Editorial Assistant, Samantha Antopol
Image: Leah Sininsky & Samantha Antopol, thanks to Kayla Mantegazza
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Written by Samantha Tharler
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Friday, 05 March 2010 01:11 |
Over the long Winter break, I used some of my free time to practice my sewing skills. I am proud to say that I successfully constructed three garments. Here, I share my experiences with all of you sewing savvy UDressers!
1) My first project was a skirt (see below). I used a blue, printed silk fabric that I got as a gift from Italy. Since taking my first sewing class at Delaware last semester, I felt I had the necessary skills to succeed. This was my first experience sewing silk, and since the fabric moves as you cut and sew, I found it challenging. I had to use several glass head silk pins to hold the fabric down, (which are recommended for silk because they are sharp ,thin and don't leave a mark). I tried doing the Hong Kong finish, (wrapping ribbon around the inside of a seam to leave an elegant finish), but it ended up being too bulky for the fabric. I also constructed my first visible, elastic waistband to add a casual flair to the fancy fabric.
2) My second goal was to create my first dress. I used a fuchsia cloth that I got at a sample sale on 7th Avenue in New York City for $1! Although the pattern said that it would only take two hours, I worked on it for seven. In the end, it was worth the time I spent, because the dress looks great and fits perfectly. My dress is a perfect example of how you can get nice clothes without spending a fortune.
3) My last conquest was a tie, which I made for my father. I ripped apart an old tie for the pattern, and used the podcast "Threadbangers" for directions. I stumbled upon the podcast on iTunes, and since then I've been watching it for great ideas for DIY projects. It was a fun challenge to figure out what to do. Making a tie is harder than it looks. It involves 3 pieces, a lining, and about an hour of hand sewing. I even sewed a tag on the end with my name on it! My dad seemed impressed and no one knew it was handmade when he wore it.
What I love about sewing is the gratification I feel when I finally finish a project. Though it can be painfully frustrating, seeing the finished product makes all of the work I put into it worthwhile and that feeling is irreplaceable.
Samantha models her skirt |
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Written by Katie Ginis
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Friday, 26 February 2010 02:56 |
My train pulls into Grand Central Terminal at 8:45 A.M. Walking through the beautiful terminal, I exit onto Vanderbilt Avenue, and quickly join the busy streets of Manhattan. Turning onto Madison Ave. I walk the 13 blocks to the offices of Morris Visitor Publications. My bright yellow skirt sticks out like a sore thumb in a sea of dark business suits and overcoats. When I first took on the internship I expected that I would be getting coffee for my co-workers or doing other tedious tasks. I was completely wrong.
I was put to work in the editorial department, which they call "the hub". I would be working on the February and March issues of IN New York Magazine, which is a free publication distributed all over New York City. Minutes after my arrival I was given a huge packet detailing all the specifications for grammar and writing for all of the magazines that MVP NY publishes. My mind was racing as I leafed through all the different pages, containing minute differences from one magazine to another...differences that were very small, but very important. Next I was given the task of researching details for art gallery openings, residential locations, retail stores, and so much more. You name it, I researched it. I even had the chance to work on the monthly calendars for the next few issues. It was so exciting to know that I was choosing the events to put in the calendars. Even though it was such a small part of the magazine, it was so exhilarating to know that I had really contributed something to it. I also had the chance to write listings, which are little blurbs about different things such as restaurants and retailers. It is basically a directory in the back of the magazine.
While sitting at my desk one day, someone tapped me on the shoulder. I looked up to see the Editor-in-Chief/Senior Vice President of Communications and Public Relations standing beside me asking me to come to her office to talk. My heart began to pound as I started retracing my actions earlier in the week. I thought I had done something terribly wrong, I was so nervous that she could probably hear my heart beating. Minutes later I walked out of her office with a smile plastered on my face. Since I am majoring in fashion merchandising, she assigned me to the art department to help with the upcoming photo shoot. In order to prepare for the photo shoot I took inventory of all the items that were being lent to the magazine from various vendors and designers all over the city. My eyes widened as I unpacked Versace shoes, a D&G corset and Burberry sunglasses. When the day of the photo shoot finally arrived, a car was waiting to take the art director and me to the location. I felt like a celebrity being chauffeured around Manhattan. The photo shoot was so exciting and I learned so much! They took pictures of all the items separately and then put them all together on the computer. The final product was amazing!
Another day I attended the January editorial meeting where they planned the March issue. It was quite intimidating sitting with some very important people in the company, as they went over all the aspects of the magazine. The typed editorial plan covered things from the focus of the magazine all the way to advertisers for the issue.
Leaving the office my last day my eyes spotted a stack of the Lady Gaga issue. I eagerly grabbed a copy and flipped a few pages in. There it was. My name was printed in a magazine that would be distributed all over New York City. I realize Editorial Intern isn't as impressive as Editor-In-Chief, but hey, we all have to start somewhere, right?
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Written by Samantha Tharler
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Monday, 22 February 2010 23:48 |
Shopping is always fun, but every girl should learn the difference between shopping in a mall in America and walking down the Champs Elysee's in Paris. This winter I got the opportunity to experience shopping in the streets of London and Paris while remarking the difference in style between each country.
London is home to one of my favorite store in the world, Harrods. The experience of shopping in a department store like Harrod's is definitely grander than shopping in an American equivalent. The store is huge and you can find anything from Madame Tusssaud's wax sculptures to Steinway pianos. Everything is beautifully arranged including the golden escalators inspired by Ancient Egypt. When I think of London, I think of the classic woman in a Burberry trench coat and umbrella (mainly it rains so often). London is also home to the Victoria and Albert Museum, which has a great collection of historical clothes from each fashion capital, and avant-garde creations by current London fashion students.
Paris is another fashion capital known for its haute couture fashion houses and glorious shopping streets. I find that women in Paris always look chic and put-together. Parisians also take more chances with their shocking designs. The only John Galliano store in the world is located in Paris and carries such outrageous (and expensive) clothes that I was asked a worker about who actually shops there. She said that there are a few extravagant women in Paris who are loyal customers. All the designer stores had amazing window displays, especially my favorite design house, Chanel. I think the major difference is that while Americans like to look comfortable and cute, French women always try to look classy.
As a fashion student, it is important to see the design influences from around the world. Can't hop a plane to Europe? Try picking up a foreign fashion magazine!
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Written by Dana Finkle
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Monday, 22 February 2010 23:25 |
[Editors Note: Over winter session, freshman Dana is completed a month long internship at a shop in her hometown. This is the final blog in her 3-part series.]
Overall, this internship was of one of the best learning experiences of my life. I now have a stronger appreciation for designers and their work. Plus, having the opportunity to gain insight about what it takes to reach this level of expertise is truly remarkable.
Believe it or not, a considerable amount of a designer's time is devoted to things other than just plain sewing. Often, they spend their time placing orders with fabric stores, confirming appointments with photographers and models, and, when they have the chance to stop by the store, reaching out to customers. In fact, it's not until these introductory details are taken care of that the workers even begin putting together looks for the upcoming show.
In addition, this process of creating a collection can be extremely long and burdensome. It involves selecting fabrics for each and every piece, drafting and preparing actual designs for the garments, producing all of the clothing for the runway, which, in [designer/collection's case] was 70 pieces, and finally, advertising for the show itself. Usually, once the planning begins, there is no stopping until the last model has left the runway.
Observing all that this procedure entails has been extremely rewarding for me. I have realized that in order to be a designer, you really have to risk all that you have. It's about predicting upcoming trends before they occur, considering your customer base, and taking chances greater than you could imagine.
After this experience, my one piece of advice for anyone taking on an internship similar to mine is: don't be afraid to ask questions. This goes for anything, whether it's landing the internship in the first place, or simply double-checking to make sure the work you are doing is correct. Remember, it's always better to do things right the first time than to have to redo all of that hard work later on. Just find something you enjoy and get out there and try your best!
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Written by Colleen Waters
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Sunday, 07 February 2010 18:40 |
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Written by Dana Finkle
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Sunday, 31 January 2010 22:17 |
[Editors Note: Freshman Dana is completing a month long internship at a shop in her hometown. In a 3 part series, Dana lets us in on her design internship!]
When I took on this internship, I really had no idea what to expect. Typically internships tasks consist of running around doing errands, making phone calls, or simply shadowing one of the company's employees. My experience, however, has been quite different.
From day one, I have taken a true hands-on approach in helping out with Jennifer's store. On a typical day I'm usually given a number of garments to hand-sew. Whether things need to be hemmed, turned in at the collar, closed where the lining meets the zipper, inserted with a label, it's always a surprise to me. I even get to try more complex things techniques such as fringing, beading, or bound button holes.
The fact that I'm expected to finish actual garments for real, live customers can be quite frightening. But, at the same time, this just pushes me to approach each task I am given with the utmost sense of precision and care. After all, it's always important to produce your best work!
As fun as my internship is, I have definitely been those days where I have been asked to organize buttons, clean up the back room, and even sort fabrics into their distinguished categories. Certainly this is not as glamorous a job. But, believe it or not, it has still taught me some very useful ways of organizing, especially when one has over 100 tubs exploding with fabric.
Be sure to check back soon for my final internship summary!
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Written by Zeynab Mohammed
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Sunday, 31 January 2010 21:56 |
[Editor's Note: Many of our UDressers study abroad all throughout the year. Whether you're currently abroad, going to be abroad or even thinking about going abroad, heed Zeynab's advice! Safe travels!]
In the fall of 1923, nine University of Delaware students traveled to Paris on the first study abroad program offered by an American university. Paving the way for other institutions, the University of Delaware now offers over 75 different programs in 35 countries making it one of the largest and most distinguished programs in the country. With nearly half of all students studying abroad at least once before graduation, traveling plays a large part in the undergraduate experience for many Delaware students.
This past fall I went on my second study abroad and spent the semester immersed in Parisian culture. My experiences have taught me several things that I wish I had known before departure. Here is just a little bit of advice every UDresser should consider.
1) Pack light. I know, I know, this must sound like a broken record from your mother and the Study Abroad department, but I made this mistake twice and have some very sore muscles to show for it. Not only will over packing cost you steep heavy bag fees at the airport, it is also an avoidable hassle to lug around said heavy bags on and off planes, trains, and buses. For your safety and travel comfort, it is important to take only luggage you can realistically manage. Even on short weekend trips away from your main destination, a small duffel bag will do. Pack wardrobe and travel staples only and aim to leave the US with underweight bags. Choose pieces that you can mix and match easily to create numerous different looks. It is far easier to do laundry often than to deal with managing bags that are bursting at the seams with all your favorite garments. Consider your location's climate and the time of year you are traveling. I cannot emphasize it enough, start your trip with light bags because you will have no trouble filling luggage with foreign souvenirs, gifts, and chic additions to your wardrobe. Which brings me to the next point:
2) Do not buy too much. Spanish author Paulo Coelho said in an interview with Aeroports de Paris Magazine "Spend your money on things you don't need to carry: a great night at the theatre, meals in restaurants, and excursion trips. In today's globalised world of the Internet, you can buy anything you want without having to pay excess baggage". Of course, it is necessary to purchase souvenirs and maybe some gifts for yourself and family/friends from your exotic destination, but before purchasing other items, ask yourself if you could easily purchase it online or in the US. When overseas, engage in the same activities as the locals to get a feel of different cultures and ways of life.
3) Do not try to see too many different cities in one weekend excursion. A common part of studying abroad is going on quick weekend trips or weeklong excursions during the longer semesters. It may be tempting to try and visit several cities during one get away, but this may inhibit how well you get to see each city. I believe in quality over quantity and visiting one city very well rather than a bunch very quickly. By attempting to do too much, you will end up wasting precious time traveling and adjusting to new locations instead of seeing the sites or meeting the locals in one or two cities.
4) Stand up for yourself. While abroad, you will probably do everything from eating meals out, shopping, visiting sites, and going out at night with other students on your trip. However, this does not mean you should feel pressured to eat at restaurants with food you do not like or visit sites that are not very interesting to you. From experience, I have eaten many bad meals at restaurants I did not like simply because the people I was hanging out with wanted to eat there. Have the courage to stand up for yourself and dine at restaurants you like or visit sites you want to see. Some evenings you might be better off enjoying a delicious meal alone or with students not part of your regular social group rather than choking down something terrible with the people you hang out with all the time.
5) Be adventurous. Being abroad is all about trying new things, so embark on things you might normally be too shy or hesitant to do. Do not feel pressured to get too far out of your comfort zone or do anything irresponsible and immature, but do keep an open mind and dabble in the local culture of your destination.
Studying abroad may be one of the few opportunities you have to be a young, carefree traveler so live it up. Look cute, have lots of fun and do fabulous things!
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Written by Zeynab Mohammed
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Monday, 25 January 2010 16:21 |
I'll admit that before setting out on my semester in Paris, I consulted some top guide books and made a list of all of the tourist sites I had to see. Along the way, I received advice from Parisians about their top picks for sites as well. Beyond the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and the Arc de Triomphe, here are my top, personal recommendations of museums, sites, and things to try.
Museums:
1) Musée Jacquemart-André (158 bd Haussmann 75008 Paris, France): Visit the former home of Édouard André and Nélie Jacquemart and see firsthand one of the finest private Italian art collections in France. The couple devoted their lives to amassing wonderful furniture and magnificent artwork, their home is a must see for anyone who enjoys art or pretty things.
2) Musée Marmottan Monet (2 Rue Louis Boilly 75016 Paris, France): For anyone who appreciates impressionism, this museum featuring hundreds of works by Monet and other top impressionists like Degas, Manet, and Renoir is a must see.
3) Musée de la Mode et du Textile/ Musée des Arts Décoratifs (107 Rue de Rivoli 75001 Paris, France): A must for anyone who enjoys decorative arts or just wants to see the fashion and jewelry collections housed on the second floor.
4) Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris (11, avenue du Président Wilson 75016 Paris, France): If contemporary art is more your interest, this museum boasts one of the largest collections in the city.
5) Le Petit Palais (Avenue Winston Churchill 75008 Paris, France): This fine arts museum of the city of Paris houses a noteworthy permanent collection with works by Rembrandt, Poussin, and Cezanne.
6) Espace Dali (11 Rue Poulbot 75018 Paris, France): Located in the north of the city, this private museum features a jaw droppingly amazing collection of some of Dali's finest works.
Sites:
1) The Opéra Garnier (9 Rue Scribe 75009 Paris, France): Visit the opera house that inspired The Phantom of the Opera or better yet watch a performance here in one of the largest opera/ballet houses in Europe.
2) The Panthéon (Montagne Ste. Geneviève 75005 Paris, France): Stop by this church that was built to compete with the original Roman Pantheon. Some of France's greatest men are buried in the tomb under the colossal church.
3) The Grand Palais (Avenue Winston Churchill 75008 Paris, France): Visit this exhibition hall constructed for the 1900 Paris Exhibiton which today features everything from temporary art exhibits to fashion shows.
4) Jardin du Luxembourg and the Jardin des Tuilieries (Located in the 6th and 1st districts respectively): Two of the cities prettiest gardens are the perfect place to people watch, read a book, or catch up on school work.
5) Le Marais/Place de Vosges (Located in the 3rd/4th districts): The Marais is one of the oldest parts of Paris and one of the most charming neighborhoods. Walk the narrow streets and visit some of the many restaurants and boutiques.
6) The Latin Quarter (5th district): Known as the student quarter, this left bank neighborhood has one of the liveliest night life scenes in the city.
Things to Try:
1) Go for a relaxing jog along the Seine or through one of the cities gardens.
2) Have a picnic in the Jardin du Luxembourg.
3) Besides the famous Champs-Elysées, try shopping at great boutiques or department stores on Boulevard Haussman, Rue de Rennes, or in the 7th district in the area around Le Bon Marché department store.
4) Engage in window shopping (or real shopping if you can!) at the designer flagships on Avenue Montaigne, rue Cambon, or Rue Faubourg St. Honoré.
5) Visit a Sunday morning fruit market or flea market.
6) Go to the movies and watch a new American release with French subtitles to practice your French or if you are feeling confident, watch a French film.
7) Watch an opera, ballet, or theater piece.
8) Go to a bookstore or library, the French love to read.
9) Visit some of the city's most exciting clubs, most are located in the eighth district north and south of the Champs-Elysées (other great nightlife spots are in the Latin Quarter or in the Bastille area).
10) Indulge your sweet tooth: try macaroons at Pierre Hermé at Ladurée and decide for yourself which you prefer, eat some famous Berthillon ice cream on l'île Saint-Louis, try the hot chocolate at Angelina and buy bread from the famous baker Lionel Poilâne.
11) French cuisine (Do not judge foie gras before you taste it!)
12) Visit as many of the different neighborhoods of Paris as you can to truly understand what makes each one so unique.
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