STITCH Fashion Feed

FASHION FEED HAS MOVED

2009-04-08T10:18:00.000-07:00

We've had enough of this blogspot shit.

Check out the NEW and IMPROVED STITCH blog at

stitchfashion.com/blog

Exciting multimedia content! Sexy web-only photos! Daily updates! The future is now.

BIG IN 2009 - MICACHU

2009-02-20T12:03:00.000-08:00

"dance with me and turn me well"

micachu
lo-fi dance from london

2009-02-17T18:14:00.000-08:00

Reaaaally good shadow puppets..

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

2009-02-14T20:34:00.000-08:00

Say Hi to Daul...

2009-02-10T18:32:00.000-08:00

I love the supermodel/artist/blogger Daul Kim. She has walked for Anna Sui, Christopher Kane, Chanel, and Rodarte. Her style off the runway is effortless, chic, and the epitome of cool. I especially love the way she combines and layers her clothes to create unique silhouettes. She is bold. You might have heard of her giving the finger to a Barney's sales associate after an unpleasant customer service experience or her controversial polaroids. Not only is Daul a talented young model, but she is gaining renown as an artist. Check out her blog I Like to Fork Myself. Plus, she reads Tolstoy...

And in other news, NY Fashion Week starts on the 13th!

BIG IN 2009 - THE XX

2009-02-09T22:17:00.000-08:00

drink tea and talk about 'big love'

the xx
an up-and-coming, missy-elliott-quoting band from london

Music Video of the Week

2009-02-08T15:14:00.000-08:00

LAURIE ANDERSON - O SUPERMAN

"Eula" by Brian Joseph Davis (2007)

2009-02-01T13:35:00.000-08:00

"Several years ago, forward thinking Sony/BMG created a new form of music by creating CDs with computer viruses and hidden contracts. This is a cover, by a women's chorus, of Sony's best song, End User License Agreement."

Click to listen.

It's so eerily beautiful... like a 21st century corporate monastic hymn.

Listen to more of Davis's work on UbuWeb, and his website.

Curated Fashion?

2009-01-28T13:31:00.000-08:00

Change- the buzzword of 2009. Fashion is an institution that reflects change. With the folding of magazines, the increasing popularity of the blog medium, and general economic meltdown, the fashion climate has dramatically altered from last year. However, an interesting new enterprise has been established by Urban Outfitters.

Although slightly suspicious of the chain store that has brought trendy, "hip" clothing to the masses, I am intrigued with UO's "new retail experiment." Called Space 15 Twenty, this new LA concept mall amalgamates the feel of a store with that of an art gallery. Space 15 Twenty hosts a variety of designers and artists that rotate every few months. Currently, one could find street styles from Alife, vintage clothing from What Comes Around Goes Around, architecture books from Hennessy + Ingalls, bohemian clothes from We The Free, Steven Alan designs, and publications from TV Books. In addition to these installations, Space 15 Twenty works with local musicians to hold outdoor performances.

Rotating designers is by no means unprecedented. NYC's Opening Ceremony is one boutique that chooses to focus on a new country each year and showcases a few impeccable designers. Paris's Colette immediately comes to mind as the original innovator when it comes to fusing clothing, design, culture, food and art. However, I maintain that Space 15 Twenty creates a revolutionary shopping experience and would look forward to a Chicago location.

Music Video of the Week

2009-01-26T23:57:00.001-08:00

NITE JEWEL - ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Music Video of the Week (bonus!)

2009-01-12T20:28:00.000-08:00

HEARTSREVOLUTION - C.Y.O.A

Pugh for You

2009-01-12T19:41:00.000-08:00

New year, new quarter, new issue, new Fashion Feed feature! At the beginning of each month, STITCH will post a new, bite-sized profile on the who's who in fashion (whether it be in Paris or on campus). We picked British designer Gareth Pugh as January's leading man-- as for why? Well, you'll just have to click and find out, won't you?

WINTER ISSUE 09

2009-01-11T21:14:00.001-08:00

The latest STITCH is here. Click above to view.

We'd love to hear your feedback too! Send us an email.

Music Video of the Week

2009-01-09T13:23:00.000-08:00

"Alice"

A Slavish Addiction to Shoes

2009-01-05T13:30:00.000-08:00

My new year's resolution for 2009? Take a hint from the demigods of fashion and don seemingly unorthodox footwear. Although it is questionable how easily it would be to saunter down Sheridan Road in five-inch stiletto heels with spikes protruding from the toe, the wearers of these alluring shoes would encourage risk-taking. Moral of the story: embrace the abstract, the not-easily-understood, and the avant-garde.

(From top: Ann Demeulemeester, YSL, Nicholas Kirkwood for Belstaff, Stella McCartney, Christian Louboutin for Rodarte via Jak & Jil)

2008: what we've seen.

2009-01-01T14:43:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year readers! It's time for a look back through the past year at the trends we saw. 2008 brought us interesting footwear, dramatic hair statements and new clothing silhouettes.

We said goodbye to demure when the classic Mary Jane was reintroduced with a flair. New styles popped up everywhere- colors and heights ranging from the traditional modest black to vibrant velvets with thick 4 inch heels. Leather boots, from ankle to above the knee, also make the list of top footwear trends. Two-tone strappy heels and peep-toe stacked platforms were introduced for fall, just as the last gladiator sandals were put away.

Hair made a statement as well- short flirty cuts paired with eye-catching accessories. Following the Blair Waldorf-esque trend of the oversized bow headband, clips and bands appeared in almost every style, with lace, bows, and feathers as just the beginning. Bangs were, and are, still going strong, whether swept to the side or covering the forehead.

Blazers and belted-jackets gave a new shape to the body- squared shoulders and narrowed waists. Chunky sweaters were treated the same way, simultaneously comforting and a little slimming at the torso. Leggings and skinny jeans were the common choice for bottoms, a trend no doubt continuing into the new year.

What's coming in 2009? Trendwatchers are seeing asymmetrical silhouettes, more loose-fitting, harem-style pants, shrunken blazers and ballerina-inspired dresses. Happy styling.

-J.N.

Jubilee

2008-12-23T13:26:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays!

xx, the hipster cookie

STITCH issue #04 PREVIEW

2008-12-22T20:13:00.000-08:00

"dead leaves -- doe lump," photos by Marcy Capron

"Grey Guardians," photos by Marnie Soman

Issue #04, Winter 2009, goes live January 9 'o9. It's better than ever.

STITCH photographer & photo editor Marcy Capron...

2008-12-22T20:06:00.000-08:00

... has a new Etsy store where she is selling her incredible prints. Visit! Buy!!! You won't regret it. She is fast becoming the next big thing in the art world.

- C

A New Kind of Fugly

2008-12-16T10:50:00.000-08:00

The trend on campus? Looking fugly. Fashionably ugly, that is.

The best example of this seems to be the growing tendency to wear those grotesque, hideous sweaters that were hand-knit by some slightly off-kilter relative. Granted, wearing these sweaters in jest has always been somewhat popular, but never has it been such a veritable trend. The best are the sweaters with a vomit-inducing melange of colors or the sweaters with large characters on the front.

The only limit to the acceptable ugliness of a sweater is the wearer's ability to pull off the right attitude. As long as one can muster a hipper-than-thou swagger while walking around in a sweater with a giant Minnie Mouse and tassels on it, the look is sheer fugliness. However, the second the ensemble starts to look like that of a kindergartener who picked out his own clothes for the first time after drinking a Mountain Dew, well then that is just plain ugly.

To look fugly, you've got to back it up with a healthy dose of blase and manage to not look crazy. So boys and girls, this year for Christmas ask your grandmother to knit you a sweater instead of buying one from J. Crew for 89.50 or at least pillage the local thrift store for viable fugly options. Either way, it'll give you more cash in your pocket and more swagger in your step.

Music Video of the Week

2008-12-07T00:20:00.000-08:00

France Gall - Laisse Tomber les Filles (music & lyrics by Serge Gainsbourg)

Best Etsy Ever?

2008-12-03T23:15:00.000-08:00

Oh my lord, seriously. Etsy user Emily Ryan is talented. Amazingly so. The limited pieces she has up now remind me of a kind of mix between Haider Ackermann and Jil Sander. Will we see more of her in the future, perhaps outside of Internet land? I hope so.

- C

Take It to the Street

2008-11-21T10:01:00.000-08:00

I spend at least hour a day looking at online photos of complete strangers. I know, major creeper activity. But I freaking love my street style Web sites.

Photographing stylish pedestrians is nothing new-- fashionable New Yorkers have been gracing the Style section of the Sunday New York Times for over a decade. But after the Sartorialist, imitators were suddenly, and literally, everywhere. To see the clothes horses tromping around Helsinki, you have Hel Looks; for London, London Street Fashion; Berlin, Stil in Berlin; Prague, Made on Stree t; Tokyo, Tokyo Street Style, and the list of cities and sites goes on. Google, and you shall receive.

And now, the Sartorial middleman is cut out with the proliferation of online communities where users post photos of their daily outfits. Big names in the game are: Lookbook.nu, Chictopia and What I Wore Today. Here, photos are more camerawhore than candid, yet come off much more personal-- instead of an anonymous fashionista standing on a Milanese street corner, you have Karolina F. from Poland or Wen L. from Guangzhou. You have a face and a name, explanations of where they wore the outfit to, the pretentious indie song lyrics they use as post titles, their apologies for "looking like poo-- i have the flu :( :( ."

So go on now-- Open a new browser window to begin your world adventure, and start clicking away. But remember: There's no place like home.

Music Video of the Week

2008-11-19T18:25:00.000-08:00

Kate Bush - Running up that Hill

Garçons, s’il vous plaît…

2008-11-11T19:41:00.000-08:00

Finally, the time has come: Comme des Garçons Limited Edition collection for H&M debuts this Thursday. Comme founder Rei Kawakubo promises that the line is "very much Comme des Garçons to its roots." Thus, we can expect a black, white and navy palette, sleek silhouettes, and avant-guarde elegance. "Comme des Garçons" translates to "like the boys," which explains the brand's embrace of the androgynous. The Japanese couture staple usually retails in the thousands, but the Comme pieces for H&M will range from $14.99-350.00.

If the success of H&M's collaborations with Lagerfeld, Cavalli, and Victor & Rolf are any indication of the demand, you better be reading this post from your tent in front of H&M.

Music Video of the Week

2008-11-06T20:35:00.001-08:00

Grace Jones - "La Vie En Rose"

Speaking of Fasion Penis -

2008-11-05T20:40:00.000-08:00

Remember when everyone used to be obsessed with Johnny Depp, before he got kind of old and reclusive and started dressing exclusively like his character in Secret Window? Well, I haven't forgotten him. And if we're going to start talking about internet crushes, it's time to break out some of those dreamydreamydreamy pictures of Johnny, the heartthrob of my teenage years.

"La Lettre"

2008-11-02T21:04:00.000-08:00

Michel Gondry, a French film director (most famously noted for his work in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind as well as Bjork's music videos), exemplifies the fine line between mysticism and realism; he unleashes the tension between what exists concretely and what exists imaginatively. Through visual and musical media, in his emblematic manipulation of our visual frames of reference, Gondry's work is a tribute to an inexorably childlike perspective, a lens of innocence and boundless creativity.

In one of my most recent youtube tangents, I stumbled upon this short film he made called "La Lettre"... A meditation on weightier ideas like space and time and the role of an artist as well as simpler notions like childlike naivete and the inevitable disappointment therein. I believe these ideas are relevant to all forms of expression, including especially the realm of fashion.

Designers today--Erin Featherston's Spring 2009 collection, for example--are constantly inspired by the act of collapsing the binary between a more dream-like fantasy world and things more practical. Just like Gondry.

Only ten minutes long! Watch it! Ponder and enjoy!

-Kate

First Lady, Glamor Icon?

2008-11-02T18:46:00.001-08:00

After eight years of Laura Bush's conservative -- some might say dour -- style as First Lady, the US is setting itself up for a turn toward a sophisticated style set by either Cindy McCain or Michelle Obama. Either way this country shows stylistic promise, although the two have distinctly different takes on the trends, McCain with a nod to high-end couture characterized by a conservative look punctuated with bright colors, while Obama offers a more forward, experimental look. Think McCain = Oscar de la Renta, and Obama = Maria Pinto (a Chicago designer whose work pushes the limits while maintaining a clearly Midwestern sensibility). The poised, refined image these women exude will clearly become a part of the next administration's public image, but both have also shown that they aren't merely interested in taking the sideline role that Laura Bush assumed, a powerful message about the state of women in the realm of American politics. Regardless of the outcome on Tuesday, America is set to have a new glamor icon in office for the next four years.

Some Internet Crush

2008-10-23T14:25:00.001-07:00

So, in another installment of C's internet crushes, there is this guy. He models some really killer hoodies & hoodie accouterments on a fanciful Etsy store (ruffeoheartslilsnoty).

Buy their stuff! Because, whether or not this dude makes the hoodies or just models them, they are really great.

Recommended:
White SARS GUARD hoodie thing (nice for biking)
Geometrical dress
Hahahaaaaa swooooon

- C

chic people do chic things

2008-10-23T13:53:00.000-07:00

if you're like me, you often dream of a life surrounded by chicago's social elite, holding that effervescent glass of champagne (does anyone know a champagne that doesn't start with an A and end with a -ndre? because i don't.) and showing off your air-brushed legs in a cocktail gown designed to break hearts.

now, for $15, we too - the few, the midtermed-out, the underage - can be truly cultured for a night.

"See the Art Institute in a new light--After Dark. Immerse yourself in the luminous photographs of Jeff Wall. Surround yourself with music from Life during Wartime DJs and performances by the acclaimed theatrical ensemble Collaboraction. Grab a cocktail and enjoy complimentary appetizers. After Dark offers a whole new experience of the Art Institute.

Order tickets online, by phone at (312) 575-8000, or at any Art Institute ticket counter. Tickets will also be available the night of the event."

I like my couture well-done

2008-10-17T13:26:00.000-07:00

The Chicago History Museum’s newest exhibition portrays the glamour of decades of Chicago fashion. Haute couture from Chanel, YSL, and Comme des Garçons are juxtaposed with the backdrop of a gritty, meatpacking Chicago. Escaping the Chicago of Upton Sinclair’s The Jungle, elite Chicago women frequently indulged in overseas shopping sprees. Visitors learn that these women, to counter the reputation of Chicago as hog butcher capital of the world, only wore the most upscale, high-end fashion. In the words of exhibit curator Tim Long, “If you were a Chicago matron who traveled internationally and wanted to prove to the rest of the world that you were sophisticated, you would buy not just Balenciaga, but the best Balenciaga.”

Chic Chicago: Couture Treasures from the Chicago History Museum runs until July 26, 2009.

Cool Stuff Alert

2008-10-15T10:59:00.000-07:00

Strange & satisfying: cartoon earrings by Zachary Pryor on Etsy. Click the image to purchase.

Autumnal Absence

2008-10-10T22:38:00.000-07:00

Call me crazy. But amid the sunny 80 degree weather today and the sea of shorts and flip-flops, I yearned to feel the chill of autumn. Shades of black and grey epitomize fall chic. The following comprise basic transition pieces that would serve one well while experiencing bipolar Chicago weather.

a. Men’s leather sports coat; jcrew.com

b. Men’s Acne jeans; tobi.com

c. Women’s Acne jeans; revolve.com

d. Women’s Miu Miu motorcycle boot; bergdorfgoodman.com

e. Men’s Common Project low-top sneaker; shopjake.com

f. Women’s Alexander Wang silk top; lagarconne.com

Scout scout scout it all out.

2008-09-01T18:33:00.000-07:00

Well, Wildcats, it's about that time again. The dog days of summer are drawing to a close, and those of us ill-fated to the quarter system are resigned to watch our home friends trot happily back to a world devoid of curfews, gas money and eight-hour retail shifts. Before you start wishing these sunny days away, however, consider the silver lining: while they're busy slaving away over research papers and bone-dry textbook chapters, we retain the precious gift of free time...time I, personally, plan to fill with Sex and the City, a boudoir overhaul, and - of course - window shopping for fall must-haves.

Digging on lately?

Gold nail varnish (and the entire Chanel ad campaign).

!iT jeans.

Faux nerd glasses.

This Brighton koi fish necklace, inspired by the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Plum and cobalt skinny jeans.

Shrunken blazers.

Anything zebra or peacock.

Blair Waldorf frocks, tights and headbands.

Sam Edelman moccasin boots.

Kiss kiss bang bang, Northwestern. See you in two weeks!

Informal Non-Poll Poll

2008-08-26T14:03:00.000-07:00

The new Ugg?

It's strange, and new and kind of exciting, but weren't Uggs back in the day? Before everyone got sick of them?

Respond in the comments.

(I don't know why I'm on the TOMS beat all of a sudden, I just get their emails.)

CHICAGO PRINTER'S BALL

2008-08-05T10:03:00.001-07:00

STITCH is going to the ball!

The Printer's Ball, actually.

Hosted by excellent POETRY magazine of the Poetry Foundation, among other fine local publications, the Ball is a 21+ free party-party-time at the Museum of Contemporary Art. You wonder around looking at really great publications (like STITCH!), dancing, drinking, being merry.

Go! Enjoy.

Friday, Aug 22, 5:30pm-10pm, Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave; FREE; printersball.org

Proud Parent of a Male Model

2008-07-06T10:19:00.001-07:00

(Very few) belated highlights from men's Spring 2009 runway.

- Number (N)ine
Steampunk, anyone? Wiggy.

Ann Demeulemeester decided to do her collection entirely in the vein of a certain pirate in a certain Disney movie about pirates. Cool, Ann. Really super (although, she alleges she was inspired by German intellectual and man-of-cultural-import Hermann Hesse. Whatevs.).
On a positive note, LOVE those strappy man-sandals.

More Ann D. Look, it's Keith Richards.

Also, I have a huge crush on Henrik Vibskov:

- C

Summer Sole

2008-07-01T09:04:00.000-07:00

I've recently spent a lot of time looking for a good summer shoe. One that is office-appropriate, but also cool with plenty of air flow and also allows for sockless wearing.

I've found it! A friend who lives in Santa Cruz tipped me off (in Santa Cruz it is always summer so I had no doubt she'd know), they're called Toms Shoes (above) and they are wonderful. Breathable, light, attractive, easy to slip on and a good replacement for you people out there in Internet land, male and female, who are tired of sneakers and/or ballet flats (aren't we all!).

Mine are white, and I have a feeling they'll get dirty fast, but it's worth it. Dirty shoes are sexy.

Big plus: for every pair sold they'll give a pair to a child in need.

- C

The 80s Will Never Die

2008-06-30T19:04:00.000-07:00

... or cease to be amazing.

Check this really killer vintage e-shop Nasty Gal. There are some seriously sweet cyborg sunglasses, killer must-have hooded rain emergency ponchos, and, obvs, the dress above.

Hurry though, the stuff tends to sell out VERY FAST. Because, sorry, you aren't the only one who is cool enough to go vintage shopping. :(

In Vogue?

2008-06-30T18:25:00.000-07:00

Fashion magazines are pretty much evil. Fabulously evil (or something).

Yesterday was the 20th anniversary of editrix Anna Wintour's reign at fashion mag Vogue, and apparently she's done a whole great deal of good for the image of the publication, according to obsequious Robin Givhan, who penned in-case-you-weren't-aware-Vogue-is-really-great for the Washington Post.

Givhan spends the majority of the piece talking about how Vogue has become a cultural icon in its pure fantasy glamor and the fetishization of skinny bitches, celebrity obsession and luxury goods.

[Vogue] taps into that core desire to be gorgeous and declares it righteous and worthy and, most important, smart. [It] validates the modern careerist's fantasy, that she can run the world and look fabulous doing it.

Is that really all we ask from a fashion magazine? That it validate a consumerist cultural stereotype of the power female who not only wants to make a lot of money but spend it too? I mean, is this really celebrating, or even covering in a journalistic sense, the art of fashion? Sure it gives more attention to the few mega brands (CHANEL! PRADA!), maybe even fewer "up and coming" names who are already mostly well-known (Givhan reports that Vogue helped "two promising young designers" by paying for trainers and nutritionists so they could lose weight -- my money is on the Mulleavy sisters of Rodarte who DON'T NEED TO LOSE WEIGHT and have pretty much made it in the industry) but does that provide a cultural service? Or a consumerist one?

I don't know if we could really call Vogue, or Ms. Wintour for that matter, a cultural icon. I think it's more of a capitalist icon. Congrats to you Anna on 20 years of shelling out shit to the uber-rich! Here's to 20 more.

- C

WARNING: NO FASHION HERE

2008-06-10T11:40:00.000-07:00

I have an unrelated question I'd like to pose to the Internet:

Why do you think South Koreans can form enormous protests that cause the government to shiver in their booties, but we here in the US can't?

Don't you think we have better reason to? I mean, I don't eat American beef either, and it's totally worthy of mass protesting, but COME ON. We need to get our shit together. What do you think?

- C

Braided twists aren't just for vending machines anymore.

2008-06-09T15:08:00.000-07:00

Your new best-friend summer shoe:

Forever 21, $7.50. No, really. Let that pedicure see the sunshine!

Say what?

2008-06-09T15:06:00.000-07:00

I take a considerable degree of pride in hating American Apparel for generally being poorly marketed, overpriced hipster bullshit. I also could not be more obsessed with this mélange jersey tulip skirt:

Considering purchasing multiple colors. Be concerned.

Gertrude Stein & Fashion

2008-06-01T22:48:00.000-07:00

[Random Fashion-spiration] Sometimes, when I'm browsing the Internet for inspiration for a photoshoot or a new pair of shorts or something else fashion-related, I always stumble across something that isn't.

Like, for example, tonight. I came upon a poem, Gertrude Stein's "If I Told Him: A Completed Portrait of Picasso":

Shutters shut and open so do queens. Shutters shut and shutters and so shutters shut and shutters and so and so shutters and so shutters shut and so shutters shut and shutters and so. And so shutters shut and so and also. And also and so and so and also.
Exact resemblance. To exact resemblance the exact resemblance as exact as a resemblance, exactly as resembling, exactly resembling, exactly in resemblance exactly a resemblance, exactly and resemblance. For this is so.
Because. [full text]

It's a beautiful and haunting rhythmic ode, but, you know, not at all about fashion. Then I found this dance piece (via a friend's Facebook profile) by Lightfoot León Nederlands Dans Theater, set to a striking recording of Stein herself reading the poem.

Doesn't it all remind you of this piece from Haider Ackermann's Fall 2008 collection? Dark, romantic and mysterious, yet soft and pale.

Inspiration. Thank you, Internet.

STITCH Photographer Tommy Rousse

2008-06-01T22:04:00.001-07:00

Sometimes STITCH has parties. They are lots of fun. Sometimes Tommy Rousse will come and take photos, like the one above. Next time we have a party, you should come!

Enjoy!

Cheers to you, Yves

2008-06-01T19:28:00.000-07:00

Yves Saint Laurent, Fashion Icon, Dies at 71.

You'll live forever in our minds & memories.

lists

2008-05-29T18:55:00.000-07:00

Lists are fun. Who doesn't love lists? When I was a vulnerable high schooler whose blogging (YES, I had a blog...and it was kickass! Someone even *almost* proposed to me on it. He was creepy. A creepy hippie. My blog persona was "barefoothippy," so maybe that's what attracted him to me. But enough about my love life.) consisted mainly of attempts to impress boys, I utilized the clever List blog post to great effect (if I do say so myself...but enough about my love life.). Given that it is almost reading week, and the grinding stress of the school year is about to culminate in one huge, obnoxious, pus-filled TO-DO LIST...here's two quick lists to brighten your day and keep you from jumping over that (very tantalizing) ledge.

good things.

House of Sushi and Noodles in Belmont - it's like eating art.
The "Like I Love You" music video (Justin Timberlake). Can we all pause for a minute and drool over those closeups of Justin? This may be the only time in history that the phrases "sensual" and "white boy" are both appropriate.
The Exorcist. Just watched it, haven't really slept since...
The Christian Dior Extreme Python sandals that Carrie wears in four scenes in the upcoming Sex & the City movie. I don't even like Sex & the City - but those shoes are so sexy!
gofugyourself.com - unfailingly funny.

sketchy things.

Howard Stern as Fartman. I was clueless to this graphic and disturbing segment of US History until a TV at Blomquist enlightened me: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3Zq2HzJH6s
Cafe Mud. I want to like it. I really do. But every time I try to study there, it's just me and that creepy owner who refuses my credit card. It's dark. It's smoky. There are labels on the walls that say "Art By So & So" but there is no art. The worst part is when you walk in the door and the owner just pops up from behind the counter where he's been shooting up/feeling small children/drinking blood lattes with Satan...the imagination runs wild.
People who order complicated Starbucks drinks. Don't pretend like you can taste the difference between 2 pumps of vanilla and 1 & 1/2 pumps.
People who go into other coffee shops and ask for a "venti" or a "grande." Leave poor struggling small-coffee-shop-owners a fragment of their pride, please! (Unless you're at Cafe Mud - then just focus on getting out alive).
Magazines promising thousands of dollars for the first picture of Miley Cyrus kissing in public. It's fun to be a pedophile, NOT.

It's beginning to feel a lot like...may?

2008-05-22T12:06:00.001-07:00

I was willing to give Evanston the benefit of the doubt this winter. I'm from Chicago and tried my best not to complain. A frigid winter? That's nothing new. So what if it was ten weeks of lip numbing wind and lake-effect snow. But now that it's almost June and we're still in school, much to my dismay, I was really hoping for a jump in the temperature. I figure, there has to be at least one month's worth of solid good weather here on the North Shore right?

But while I wait for that day to come when the mercury climbs above 80 degrees, I do have to say that my favorite thing about this chilly spring has been .... sweater weather. Usually something I look forward to in the fall, the ability to wear cute cardigans without overheating in the Chicago humidity or freezing in the rain and snow. And this spring, it has been the perfect temp to leave that old Northface in the closet in exchange for a lighter-weight option.

Like this sweater from Forever21. Perfect for laying over tanks with skinny jeans and those fun new t-shape sandals.

Or this sweater from Gap. Come June when maybe it scorches to *gasp* 70, pair with a big necklace , shorts and booties and you're good to go in this unseasonably cool weather.

Or this option from Urban Outfitters. This has pretty much become my uniform. This oversized sweater + leggings + norbucks = me on any given weekday. Hopefully, it'll be warm enough to order a frappuchino soon.

Table the Label, and Wear Your Own Name

2008-05-20T22:04:00.000-07:00

A classic bit of 80's fashion advice -- featuring Mr. T. Yeah, it's true.

"She's a real hot dog."

STITCH ISSUE 03

2008-05-20T21:10:00.000-07:00

Debuts! So Soon!! These images are a taste of what's to come, from our FABULOUS photoshoots.

stitchfashion.com

Photo by Nick Infusino

Photo by Bryan Young

Photo by Ilana Park Woods.

All images copyright STITCH magazine 2008.

Booze News

2008-05-20T11:39:00.000-07:00

Boba booze!

"Ms. Lo combines green tea-infused simple syrup with milk and a shot of vodka, yielding a familiar flavor — think of a green tea frappuccino at Starbucks and you’re in the right neighborhood — edged with the keenness of the vodka."

Perfect for BYOB at Cozy Noodles.

[NYT]

Hello Kitty named Tourism Ambassador of Japan

2008-05-20T11:15:00.000-07:00

Finally!

[MSNBC]

Those Chinese.

2008-03-03T21:12:00.000-08:00

How's this for DIY? Balloon twisting isn't just for children's parties anymore.

Shoe crush...

2008-03-02T02:45:00.001-08:00

Happy March! Ring in spring with a pair of ankle-strap ballet flats, $148 at J. Crew.

What's old is new.

2008-03-01T10:35:00.000-08:00

Every vintage lover knows that while there's nothing like a one-of-a-kind piece to kick-start the compliments and put a little spring in your step, scouring the racks for something that's stylish, inexpensive and a wearable size can be almost more trouble than it's worth. Fortunately, the Internet has taken a load off the shoulders of vintage shoppers everywhere - but even still, not all of us have the time to continuously refresh our screens until the bidding time is up on that perfect 1950s prom gown.

Red Dress Shoppe is an "indie web boutique" committed to bringing the stylings of the first half of the twentieth century to the modern woman in more reliable sizes and availabilities. Reproducing retro styles at relatively affordable prices, it's the perfect place to find a quirky blouse to wear to lecture...or a dress for that upcoming swing dance performance. Here are a few of my favorite pieces currently gracing its pages:

Ambrosia blouse, $29.

Cinnamon and spice skirt, $79.

Couture dress, $119.

Metroline stewardess dress, $76.

Stardust blouse, $38.

Velveteen candy skirt, $38.

Lovebirds cardigan, $32 (shown from back).

But that's just me - go check out everything else they've got in stock right now! Definitely one for the bookmarks, yes?

Love, Emma

And the winner is...

2008-02-28T10:59:00.000-08:00

Sports fans drain kegs for the Super Bowl. Music lovers rock out with the Grammys. But for those bewitched by fashion and cinema alike, the only answer to a year of silver-screen opuses and lackluster celebrity spottings is Oscar Night. The apex of opportunity for Hollywood's hip and happening to strut their designer-clad stuff in front of an audience of millions, choosing a red carpet outfit is hardly a matter to be taken lightly - and while anything too out-of-the-box can be scoffed at for years to come, stars are often criticized for erring too far to the safe side of the spectrum as well.

This year's Academy Awards saw the incorporation of one-shoulder asymmetrics, sweeping trains, and many a jewel tone, but several icons bucked the obvious choices and still managed to come out on top. Here are my top picks for 2008's Academy Award appearances:

Marion Cotillard was a winner both on and off the red carpet that night -she took a risk with this mermaid-inspired gown by Jean Paul Gaultier and it paid off. The sweeping halter fit her like a glove, while the pale color stood out in a sea of red:

Katherine Heigl appears a bit over-rouged, but the Escada dress suits her figure terrifically and perpetuates her favored air of old Hollywood glamour. Helen Mirren is always gorgeous and age-appropriate at awards shows and looks fantastic in this custom design by Georges Chakra. As a huge Marchesa fan, I may be a bit biased - but all things considered, Anne Hathaway came out the favorite of the night for me. Not only was the color gorgeously striking against her pale skin and dark hair, but the dress was romantic and somehow managed to incorporate all of the season's red-carpet carpet trends without looking fashion victim-ey. I would have liked to see a few soft tendrils pulled out of her ponytail though - maybe something more like what Jennifer Garner had going on:

She and Penelope Cruz went the more traditional route in Oscar de la Renta and Chanel. Both women looked radiant in feminine, dark-hued confections that will undoubtedly stand the test of time and criticism.

Amy Adams was my other favorite. As a fellow redhead, I understand the challenge in hunting down a color that flatters, and this forest green Proenza Schouler fit the bill (and her body) amazingly.

The night was not free of disappointments, however:

Cameron Diaz may be a style icon, but this was not a good look for her. The dress is ruffled in all the wrong places, her cleavage is poised on the verge of a coup d'etat, the pale pink washes her out, and the ruching at her hips just makes it look as though she's been crammed into her limo seat too long. I know casual cool is kind of her thing, but the wrinkled dress coupled with the disheveled hair and lack of accesories is just too much. Get it together, Cam.

Not many people know this, but Tilda Swinton is secretly David Bowie.

I know J. Hud can rock a formal gown. This one isn't terrible. But the fabric looks cheap, especially paired with the reptile skin, and I fear for her boobs almost as much as Cameron Diaz's.

Viggo Mortensen, I know you are attractive. Stop hiding under that beard and Stalin's tuxedo jacket.

And the jury is still out on these two:

When I first saw this, I thought "Oh! Hilary Swank looks so lovely and feminine!" But the more I examine it, the less sure I become. The cut is fantastic, but the sheer thatching is almost too loosely knit to effectively disguise the nude-colored slip that I know is underneath it. And the close-up on those plastic flowers is not a pretty picture.

I have a major girl-crush on Cate Blanchett, and I think the color and floral embroidery on this dress are wonderful. The only place I have problems with it is at the neckline - the thick necklace looks like part of the gown, giving its actual straps the illusion that Cate accidentally left her bikini top on underneath her Oscar gown. Not cute.

I won't lie - I live for this stuff. I'd give an arm and a leg to be able to walk the red carpet myself someday. Until then, I leave you with a shot of the red carpet's classiest young veteran:

Saoirse Ronan in Alberta Ferretti. Brilliance.

Love, Emma

NEW FASHION ITEM FOR YOU

2008-02-18T16:47:00.000-08:00

Real bull penis walking canes.

So hot right now.

dresses I'm desiring: cold Mondays edition.

2008-02-11T13:49:00.001-08:00

Did anyone else think this miserable weather was behind us? I always get so hopeful that more mild weather is on the way, making the inevitable chill all the worse. To further punish myself, I procrastinate by looking at cute spring clothes. Here's a small section of the dresses with which I'm head-over-heels in love.

The "Angelette Dress Organza" from Lilly Pulitzer. It's ridiculously expensive, but hey, this is a wish list. I really like the fitted bodice/flowy skirt combination in dresses, and the bow at the side is a nice little detail. You can pair it with white for a more conservative look (cardigan and pearls, anyone?) or brighter accessories for some real pop!
Great for: Mother's Day brunch, a family reunion, the country club (if you're into that sort of thing)
The "Spin Art Dress" from C. Keer, available at Anthropologie. I love the pattern, colors, and cut of this dress. Anthropologie usually has amazing sales - probably just in time for Chicago weather to catch up!
Great for: Hanging out in the city, date night
The "Fine Jersey Leisure Dress" from American Apparel. I've returned to my preppy roots, so I'm starting to appreciate collars more. Plus American Apparel makes really great staple pieces, and I love how comfortable the cotton items are (this is 100% cotton).
Great for: Anything leisurely - of course!
The "Hazy Shade of Winter Sweater Dress" by Lux, available at Urban Outfitters. Because a good sweater tunic dress is crucial.
Great for: Chillier spring days, evening outings
The "Relaxed Stretch Shift Dress" from Ann Taylor. I think you should always have a dress with little bit of polish and class for "real world" occasions. This is cute and shapely enough for a younger woman, but still conservative enough to be taken seriously.
Good for: Interviews, "serious" jobs and internships

// sacrificed III

2008-02-06T05:57:00.000-08:00

/ observations

Forgive me, anyone and everyone who has donned themselves in the particular pieces of clothing that shall follow this disclaimer of sorts. I have nothing in particular against the items, but as a Northwestern student, I'd like to share my observations on...

The Typical Winter Quarter Outfit for a Northwestern Student!

I know, DUHN! DUHN! DUHN!, right?

A non-descript T

PLUS

Medium-wash jeans

TUCKED INTO

Uggs

AND A...

Fucking North Face!

My sincerest apologies; I guess I got a little too biased on that last one.

Guys... are even worst.

Whatever smells best

AND

New Balances

Of course, these are gross, pun very much intended, overstatements. But, don't for one second try to trick yourself into believing you haven't seen these clothing combinations too many times walking along Sheridan Rd.

Thankfully, there's hope. Phew. And since winter is still among us, here are some suggestions (which can be found in Evanston or online) to finish out the quarter in style.

Fun, warm-colored sweater from Urban Outfitters, with a T or cami layered beneath

PLUS

Dark-wash jeans with a slimmer leg for warmth from Gap

WITH

Warm pair of boots from Gap's Piperlime.com... or Uggs, if you must :(

AND

A fashionable and funtional pseudo-trench coat from Gap

Guys, just try to wear something clean. But, if you're adventurous, try this.

A heather gray V-neck sweater from Gap

PLUS

A pop of color; a coral striped button-front shirt

WITH

Darker, slimmer jeans

AND

Opt for a nice and warm sneaker. It's a mix of styles and gives the outfit a laid-back, effortless look.

TAKE A RISK WITH

A bomber in plaid. It's very unexpected and therefore, fucking awesome.

And this is me peacing out!...

what not to wear: uggs...?!

2008-02-04T12:49:00.000-08:00

I feel as though I should preface my feelings about Uggs with this simple fact: I own not one, but two pairs of Uggs. I have had the black pair since my senior year of high school, when, after getting accepted to Northwestern in December, my mother forced me to buy a pair of Uggs. How can one be "forced" into buying Uggs? I was given $200 as an early Christmas gift and the statement, "I want you to buy a pair of Uggs for college, and I will be checking the tag when you return." My mother, I must add, LOVES Uggs. Apparently, she remembers Cher having a pair.

Regardless of her affection for them, I quickly decided that she had made the right call. My Uggs are warm, comfortable, and durable. But they are not, in any way, fashionable. I can't take myself seriously when I wear them. I reconcile this awareness with the knowledge that I am in college, and that sometimes pragmatism is more important than fashion. For me, the problem comes when we try too hard to make Uggs fashionable. This summer, my roommate had some close encounters with the "Uggs chic" look at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.
Here's the Wahine boot, an embroidered suede creation.

The Wilshire Signature. We didn't see this one, but I had to include it from the website.

Paisley Uggs. Really people? I couldn't find them on the website, but a quick Google search landed me here, if you are so inclined as to purchase a pair for yourself.

Finally, the true inspiration for this post: metallic Uggs. That's something I never thought I would have to type, much less see.

The Classic Tall, now available in metallic.

Oh Uggs. I can't live with you, and I certainly can't live without you...

Stay warm, Northwestern!
-- Justice

Pretty in Pink

2008-01-28T21:37:00.000-08:00

Although the temperature is destined to drop in the next 48 hours, I can't help but get excited for spring with all the recent launches of this seasons make-up lines from the people who do it best.

It seems like there's one thing that we can all agree on. With the upcoming floral trends, the percent accent is PINK.

Bobbi Brown just released her new Pink Raspberry line last week. Check out the "Limited Edition Pink Raspberry Face Palette".

Bobbi Brown Spring 2008

The folks over at Lancome have embraced forals as well with their Garden Party make-up line. Winter's dark hues are being exchanged for all things delicate and feminine.
Lancome Spring 2008

Benefit, every NU girl's guilty pleasure, just released a Cupin-inspired line of products for Valentine's Day, a perfect way to ease your way into spring pinks while snow still coats the ground. Check out their new face powder, throbb.

Benefit Cosmetics Spring 2008

YUM!!!

xoxo,

Sara

so you wanna be Paris Hilton?

2008-01-24T20:14:00.000-08:00

Anyone really dig the dress Paris was wearing in the last sacrificed post? Now you too can party like a wannabe rockstar, for a mere $34.80. Check out this look-alike dress from forever21.com:

Ooh la la.

Girl Talk @ NU

2008-01-22T18:29:00.001-08:00

Girl Talk is coming to the Louis Room this weekend and those of us lucky enough to have jumped the first hurdle (finding a ticket after Norris sold out in only 2 hours) now have to decide what to wear Friday night. In his own way, the self-proclaimed non-DJ is fashion forward. Glancing through the pictures on his myspace reveals that he prefers understated ensembles. In a basic tee and retro shades, Girl Talk (aka Gregg Gillis) looks rough and almost rugged. Ironic, given his flashy, over-the-top dance mixes that will draw hundreds of ecstatic fans to Norris in a few days.

So, will they be wearing glitzy metallics or go for more of a casual hipster sweater? After all, as amazing as this concert will be, we can't forget its a mere floor above Norbucks. Not exactly the Metro.

I'm thinking there's no telling what will be filtering into our student union come Friday.

Dolce & Gabana's metallic belted dress (Spring 2008)

Lux's floral tank (Urban Outfitters)

Dsquared2's halter mini (Spring 2008)

L.A.M.B.'s hipster skinny jeans paired with blazer and white shades

Lux's knit cut-out sweater (Urban Outfitters)

Let's not forget that it's Chicago so maybe with a forecast of 20 degrees, kids will be pulling on some warming gear.

Burberry's metallic trench (Neiman Marcus)

Neutral flared jacket (Forever 21)

French Connection's herringbone button-up (Bloomingdale's)

EYE OUT: Watch for posts from the concert!!! Hope to see readers there

xoxo,

Sara

the new black is dead.

2008-01-22T18:10:00.000-08:00

let's talk about black, baby, let's talk about you and me.

there are many, many ways to wear black. for instance, black is often a popular choice when doing drugs with the eighties hair metal crowd:

black is also a great pick for a fun night out with the girls...

...or while relaxing in the desert with your incredibly hot significant other.

yeah, we get it. black rocks. so what's with the constant reminders from the fashion industry about the *new* black? what's with the never-ending insistence that this year's black is not, in fact, black, but - say - pink? pink is NOT the new black, and never will be. try wearing a pink to a funeral and see how the mourners react. [while you're at it, make sure you show enough thigh. why do anything halfway?]

let black be black, i beg of you! black has been self-sufficient for centuries, and it's glamorous and smooth enough to last until the apocalypse. tell the mortals of the fashion industry to stop trying to spice up black. black is suave. black is complete. there is no new black. the new black is dead.

[emilio pucci would agree.]

love,

*tori

ps: for a handy list of colors that are NOT the 'new black,' visit

this link.

2008-01-20T12:51:00.000-08:00

// sacrificed II

/ sacrifice = pay-off... err, sometimes...

Okay, Paris Hilton sucks. But, she took a risk at
a recent Sundance party and the result was surprisingly
great.

She scores [reluctant] points with me here:

Nice dress.

Great boots.

Asymmetrical bob.

Less skin.

Great job, Paris. Although, complete redemption is not in order.

So much for washed up chic.

/ leather vs. leather

I think Rachel Taylor's implementation of leather into her outfit here works.

Maria Bello's use of leather doesn't work so much. Her entire outfit is neutral overkill. :(

/ in conclusion

Paris looked nice for once. Ricky Martin is living la vida has-been. And, if you're going to wear leather, be like Rachel Taylor.

these are a few of my favorite things.

2008-01-19T14:22:00.000-08:00

I'm a pretty busy woman. In fact, I get the lucky job of being Miss In-Over-Her-Head for a fellow STITCH staffer's pageant project. Keeping a pretty strict schedule helps me get through the day without a minor nervous breakdown. More important to keeping me sane are the things I carry with me. Less like little lucky charms and more like the practical keys to my sanity, these are the things that I can't leave home without:

My Longchamp bag. It's big enough to carry all my favorite things, plus the zip closure keeps everything dry. I used to just go with the oversized tote, but it didn't suffice. I ended up getting my bag at the Nordstrom in Charlotte for a very reduced rate. Sales always make a much-needed purchase more enjoyable.
My iPhone. Yes, I'm that girl. And yes, it's every bit as fabulous as everyone says. I keep a pink incase on mine - so I can see it in the depths of my bag.
My Filofax. I got introduced to this wonderful thing by my roommate. It helps me keep track of my many meetings, to-do list, finances...basically, everything. Plus it looks fairly adult and classy, and the sunshine-y yellow color makes me happy when I have a twenty-pager due in twenty-fours with word count ZERO.
Lip balm - these days C O Bigelow or Rosebud. I got hooked on Rosebud when I was like five, and the COB I picked up when I was Christmas shopping for my mother. I've found they're both great for layering under or over lipstick. The COB is a little waxy, but does a good job moisturizing. The Rosebud is fabulous and can work by itself as a lip color. You can find Rosebud at Urban.
My Hobo wallet. It carries everything BUT my checkbook. I can fit my cards, business cards, change - even a few lucky charms manage to make it in, like a bejeweled four-leaf clover my friend got me in high school and a silver dollar from my late grandfather. The two dozen receipts that constantly make the rounds also fit in with a few bills and some ticket stubs.
Various things to keep me warm - pashmina scarves, J. Crew glittens, and thick socks. A Southern girl can hardly stand these Midwestern winters...

Peace,
Justice

Fashion Shoots - Cows & Otherwise

2008-01-19T12:14:00.000-08:00

So, the magazine world is having a big party for cow-and-dairy trade magazine Dairy Today and their amazing new redesign. The firm that did the redesign, Pentagram, posted this video from their cover shoot, and it's pretty much exactly how STITCH shoots go:

Just kidding, folks. How could I be so rude? Our models are much, much, much better than cows. Although sometimes I have to admit I feel like the dude with the bucket. Only sometimes.

Speaking of video, you can look forward to behind the scenes video actually from STITCH shoots (no cows, yet) uploaded to our site in the coming weeks & months. Hooray!

- C

What's Up With Elle?

2008-01-18T10:32:00.001-08:00

So I am sort of religious when it comes to my fashion mags. Elle, Vogue, Nylon...I look forward to that day every month when something other than credit card offers floats into my mailbox. So when I saw my copy of Elle a couple nights ago, I was, to say the least, disappointed. With such a romantic season approaching this spring I expected bountiful florals and vaca-wear, something to distract me from the fact that I will be spending my spring break this year at home in my exciting hometown of Wheaton, Illinois (where fashion means flares and a university hoodie. no joke).

But then I realized that Elle didn't drop the ball. There is clearly a normal, eye-catching cover featuring Jessica Alba that hit the shelves. But it definitely didn't make its way to Willard. So I'm just putting this out there to those of the fashion literate ...what's up with my cover of Elle?

xoxo,

Sara

VOLUME

2008-01-15T14:06:00.001-08:00

I've always been a huge proponent of volume. Huge. But, the fashion world only seemed to agree with me when it came to the females. So be it, I thought, that golden era of enormous man-wear will have to wait.

Ladies, and Gentlemen, wait no longer:

These images from Alexander McQueen, and really the whole slew of men's a/w 08 so far, prove that designers have finally caught up with me. I have to admit, however, this incarnation is kind of trapped in a morally questionable Cossack furs, North American Spanish cowboy, recycled sari kind of aesthetic that I find only mildly appealing, but whatever.

TO VOLUME!

-C

// sacrificed

2008-01-11T04:26:00.000-08:00

/ what is sacrificed?
“Be daring, be different, be impractical” were the words of Cecil Beaton, an English photographer and fashion designer. I’ve designed my blog, Sacrificed, to deliver that same message.

Fashion is not unlike an amazing and noteworthy career; it is not unlike a committed relationship, an excellent grade or evaluation, or getting the most out of life. They all require some element of compromise, risk, sacrifice. You have to be willing to do your homework, push yourself to your limits, see things a new way, and step outside of your residual comfort zone.

We all make sacrifices whether we realize it or not. We sacrifice our sleep to be with friends or study. We make compromises to ease certain situations. We risk our money in hopes that our purchases will fulfill us more than those bills did.

Sacrifice is natural. Fashion is sacrifice.

My idea for Sacrificed is to show how fun, funny, and rewarding (or disastrous) fashion can be when we take those risks that we ponder about beforehand. Whether I post a picture of Icelandic singer Björk in the infamous swan dress…

… Or talk about how I pissed my mom off by swiping my card a little too much last month… I want to look at everything in a positive way. A great outfit deserves compliments. A not-so-great outfit deserves recommendations. Everyone deserves the chance for improvement, room for mistakes, and opportunity to take more risks.

/ who is sacrificed?
My name is Thomas Johnson. T.J. is the most popular of my nicknames. I’m a Medill student with a passion for fashion and an eye for style. I use clichés, too! :D

I would best describe my style as classic look with new material. I’m a big fan sweaters, the sweater-and-button-front-shirt combo, unique graphic Ts, [slim] jeans, and sneakers. Plaid and argyle are awesome. And I think lumber (pictured below, traditionally seen in black-and-red or blue-and-black) is a pattern that is in right now and should be utilized a lot more.

My newest obsession is wearing graphic Ts with a button vest, nice jeans, and eye-catching sneakers. My most recent sacrifice started while ordering a pair of sneakers from an online shop made by an amazing California sneaker company named Creative Recreation. I discovered that I only could find the shoes a size-and-a-half too small, but I still bought them. Yeah, they’re a bit snug, but I love them. Colored oil brown, khaki and tiffany green, I have gotten several compliments on them. Plus, I don’t wear them daily; so, all is well.

/ how to be sacrificed?
I thoroughly encourage you to email me at Sacrificed@redmoonmidnight.com with:

-Your stories of sacrifice, risk, and/or compromise for fashion. Pictures would add to the awesomeness.
-Pictures in general that you think are worthy of a Sacrificed stamp because of the risk and payoff or even, risk and failure.
-Topics, in general, that you would like to see addressed here.
-Kind words just because you’re a nice person. :)
-Whatever.

Thanks for reading. And remember, as Yves Saint Laurent said, dressing is a way of life.

Bienvenue!

2008-01-10T22:15:00.000-08:00

Hey STITCH readers! Another blogger here. Just a little bit about me...

-I'm a sophomore in Medill
-Daisy by Marc Jacobs is the best purchase I've made in a long time
-Florence is one of my favorite cities
-I'm a natural blonde but brunette by choice
-I hope to one day own a Oscar de la Renta dress
-I am a slave to Urban Outfitters
-I refuse to believe I'm any taller than 6'0"

As cliche as it sounds, I really do believe that fashion is wearable art. This basically allowed me to justify spending hours watching clips from Fashion Week 08 over winter break. With this unseasonal warm weather for a Chicago January, I think everyone is thinking spring...and I can definitely say that with the broad pallet from bolds to florals to neutrals, fashion is getting diverse this season. Here's to forgetting about a winter wonderland and moving on to what's hot.

Check out the link below for a quick overview of the trends that'll be hitting stores as the weather warms.

XOXO,

Sara

fashion roadkill.

2008-01-10T21:43:00.000-08:00

Frankly, I'm still not entirely sure how this "fashion" thing works. My tastes and style are still developing. I imagine that when I enter the real world, my closet will fall victim to an even more discriminating, obsessive-compulsive eye. Until then, I can get away with several of my love/hate favorites. Let's face it: sometimes it's good to let go and move on. The tantrum-throwing significant other? The electric blue eyeshadow? The course packet from your miserable Calc class? Sure, at some time you totally connected and needed those things. They were part of your daily life, maybe even your daily identity. Here are just a few of the memorable fashion and beauty items that made me total fashion roadkill:

1. Hamburger sneakers. Think Converse, but with hamburger print. It's like the Juno phone, but...on my feet.
2. The "metallic eye." I tried to create this hot new eye makeup trick. I would take one of the eyeshadow pencils, cover my entire eyelid, and top that with metallic shimmer powder. My favorite colors for this trick were baby blue, light pink, and silver. How I thought this looked good is completely beyond me.
3. My bright yellow LL Bean backpack. There's really no good reason why this made me fashion roadkill, I'm just glad I've moved on.
4. Red velvet blazer. Think cheap Prince...on a girl...at a debate tournament.

Luckily, I've learned from my past. I still have my hits and misses, but we've all made mistakes. Just sit back and enjoy it. At the very least, you can laugh at the skeletons in my walk-in closet.

-- Justice

Upcoming posts: Uggs, leggings, and my favorite procrastination websites

Viva la STITCH!

2008-01-10T16:35:00.000-08:00

Bonjour, darling denizens of good taste and personal expression! My name is Emma and I’m one of the bloggers for STITCH, Northwestern’s premiere fashion publication. I’ll be posting as frequently as time permits about style, music, movies, current events, life at Northwestern, and whatever else tickles my fancy – but for starters, I thought I would fill out a quick little survey to share a bit about myself and to celebrate the art that transcends time, place, and space to unite us all in one varied and colorful voice: fashion. Off we go.

A: What accessories do you wear everyday?
A faceted silver ring with a tiny green stone on my left-hand middle finger.

B: What is your beauty routine?
A little mascara, bronzy-brown Smashbox eyeshadow, concealer, and some form of lip product. Seven-minute application, tops.

C: What was the last item of clothing (for yourself) that you purchased?

Into it.

D: Do you use a dresser, closet, or both?
Got a little combo action going on. My dorm room has both a “closet” and a “dresser”…I won’t pretend I’m satisfied.

E: What type of earrings are in your ears right now?
Some really classy cubic zirconia studs I got in a Thanksgiving dinner popper. Sure trumps the usual paper crown and confetti mess!

F: What type of figure do you have?
I'm fergalicious.

G: Do you wear glasses?
Most days I’m a contacts kind of girl, but every now and again a quirky outfit or excess of sleep deprivation begs me to bust out the frames. Mine are Donna Karan.

H: What type of handbag do you carry?
Either a brown leather doctor’s bag from Urban (Urb’s) or a gold quilted chain-strap purse I snapped up at the Salvation Army (Salvo).

I abbreve everything.

I: What is your ideal style?
A nice healthy blend of the old, the new, the girly, and the funky. Think Chanel, Chloé, Marc Jacobs...

J: What jewelry are you wearing right now?

K: Do you wear knee-high stockings?
I...don’t make a regular practice of it.

L: Do you have to wear matching lingerie?
Of course you don’t have to. Nobody will heckle you on the street for wearing floral panties with a leopard-print bra (Visible panty lines? Perhaps.). But I challenge you to find a lady who doesn’t feel immediately swankier with a little something special on underneath.

M: Do you wear makeup, and if so, what products do you use?
I’m a big fan of anything by Benefit, Smashbox, or Stila. Here are a few of my favorite products:

My favorite shade of lipstick, however, is by Mary Kay. And when it comes to mascara, you can’t beat that classic pink and green tube:

N: Do you wear nightgowns?
Nope. But I’m extremely envious of all of Blair’s chic PJs on Gossip Girl.

O: What outerwear do you put on when going out on a typical winter day?
A black ruffled military peacoat, some kind of scarf or pashmina, a black crocheted beret, and riding boots.

P: What is your favorite perfume?
Comptoir Sud Pacifique’s "Vanille Abricot."

Q: Is your motto “quality over quantity” when it comes to clothing and accessories?
As a general rule, yes. But I’m not gonna lie – I can never get enough clothes!

R: Do you wear rain boots?
On occasion.

S: Do you wear socks or slippers when your feet get cold?
Socks. I'm pretty serious about socks.

T: Do you have a set of travel luggage?
No, just an assortment of Poppins-esque carpet bags and a printed suitcase by Nine West.

U: What is your daily uniform?
Day dresses with tights, or skinny jeans and dressy tops. I wear them with boots or ballet flats and lots of costume-y grandma jewelry.

V: If you are married, did you wear a veil with your wedding dress? If not, how did you do your hair?
…No.

W: Do you wear a watch?
I have one, but it only goes with silver...that’s what I get for trying to be all fancy. Generally I check my phone for the time.

X: What item of clothing always makes you feel extremely beautiful?
Vintage dresses! I have a stash of pieces I’ve found in thrift stores or on e-Bay. I’m an absolute sucker for anything chiffon.

Y: What is your favorite type of yarn?
Wait, what? What? Seriously?

Z: Do you prefer zippers or buttons?
Buttons on my cardigans and zippers on my jeans.

That's a wrap. Looking forward to a fun future of blogging with all of you!