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(09/23/04 4:58am)
I was sitting in the Indiana Daily Student this summer talking to my surrogate mother Rebekah Spivey about life and everything that gives us trouble, when I admitted something I wouldn't dare admit to anyone else. \nI am not happy, I said. I am not really doing what I want to do. \nAt the time. I was working at DialAmerica and the IDS. I didn't have anytime for myself. Actually, I didn't have anytime to make clothes or do anything else fun. It was miserable, and it had been that way for about six months. I was going completely crazy. I would stay up at night, and my soul felt like it was stirring. I would tear my nails at work and be on the verge of tears because of my lack of time and energy.\nWhen I finally went to sleep, I would be depressed because nothing got made that night, and I was too tired to think. After telling Rebekah about my dilemma, she said you should follow your muse. \nFinally, I took a trip back home and went fabric shopping. I got some really nice fabric, but for some reason, I wasn't feeling it. I was happy about my purchases, but I wasn't feeling inspired. Then, I got a couple of my favorite catalogs in the mail, quit DialAmerica and BAM! the inspiration hit me like a ton of bricks. I had all kinds of fabric in my closet -- gold brocade, pink crepe and satin among many others. I couldn't wait to get started.\nThen Fashion Week came, and I was freaking out. My friend Dena came over, and we were going through fabric. I told her I didn't have enough time to go shopping, and she said, "I'll go shopping for you." \nI thought "This is ridiculous" -- I had no time for myself, and now people were volunteering to go shopping for me. I finally had to let the ball drop. I took half a day off during Fashion Week and went shopping. That was just the beginning of following my muse. \nWhen you are into fashion they way I am, and as sensitive as I am, everything has an influence on what you do. I couldn't make clothes without my sewing machine in Bloomington, so I did the next best thing -- I slept in, cleared my head and blacked out in Banana Republic. The shopping brought me back to a time long gone. I was getting my inspiration back as I looked through lace trim camisole tops, pink silk blouses and sexy black dresses. Though my own creations are nothing like what is in Banana Republic, the setting did the trick. \nBy the time I returned to Bloomington, it all came streaming to me. Expressing my creativity through art works best for me. Though writing about fashion does help to get out a lot of the built-up thoughts, I have a strange need to create. \nSo now I have decided to dedicate time every week to creating whatever I want. I am not going to stick to clothes either -- I love making glass kaleidoscopes, and mosaics bring me serenity. I have found there is nothing worse than not following the voice inside yourself and nothing worse than feeling empty of inspiration. I advise anyone who feels trapped or numbed by people with no imagination to stop tearing your nails, take a trip and follow your muse.
(09/16/04 4:10am)
As Fashion Week continued and parties jumped off, I received advice from professional editors that was quite surprising. I had actually received the advice first while in Chicago, but when you are 18, you tend to miss a lot. \nThe advice was to more or less be 'snobbed out.' Being snobbed out is not just a materialistic way of life, but an attitude. My best friend, Gulia, who is from Russia, has it down perfect: Ignore those not on your level, watch the company you keep and never argue with anyone about anything, just move forward. Be 'snobbed out.'\nAs the week progressed, I began to notice situations and people, I began to realize the poignancy of the advice. When I walked into the tents Thursday, I decided to not follow the fashion groupies and instead wear something a little more conservative. \nI wore a lime green, quarter-sleeve, second skin shirt and gray pencil skirt with a dark green Eddie Bauer sweater and black heels. My legs and hips looked incredible, and while I was standing there, I heard someone ask, "Who is that girl? She looks fabulous in what she is wearing." \nAs I stood there with my nose up, I watched as the good advice paid off. All the security officers were asking me if I needed to get into any shows, and a public relations assistant ran up and asked me to come into the Esteban Crotazar show. \n(It is extremely difficult to get into shows to which you are not invited). \nThe next day I decided to go with a simple but sleek black, knee-length wrap dress, black heels and my new Anne Klein diamond-studded sparkling watch. The dress hugged my curves just right, and as I walked into the tents the security guard caressed my arm and held the door open. It was great. My new Anne Klein watch was blingin'. This was the night of the Zac Posen show, and I had to get in.\nWhen Mallory Zalkin walked into the tents, we complimented each other on our outfits and proceeded to head into the already packed line. As we schemed on how to get into the show, false names, bribery and so on, I came up with a better plan. I told Mallory we were going to stand in line with our noses in the air, making no eye contact with the people checking invitations and act like we owned the place. \nLow and behold, the plan worked. We were in the Zac Posen show, the hottest show of the year, with no questions asked. \nAs I stood there waiting for the show to begin, my act became real. I started to question whether or not I wanted to be around the people who attended the show. Everyone was there to see Puffy and Paris Hilton, two people who I couldn't care less about. As the show progressed, I realized I couldn't care less about the show, and apparently Paris Hilton felt the same way, as she checked herself out in a compact mirror during the presentation.\nBy the end of the show, I was more than ready to go. We were packed in like sardines, and a girl was on the floor vomiting. I didn't bother to exit out the front -- I went out the side happy to be gone. \nBy Saturday, I had taken the 'snobbed out' advice as gospel. As I waited for the Lloyd Klein show, Ivana Trump was doused in champagne by an overeager audience member, and I realized I must watch the company I keep. I would not want to be associated with that guy. \nIt all became clear: If you act the part, you will get the part. Discretion is needed in all walks of life, and when it comes to fashion, being snobbed out in a black dress is definitely in and will get you next to Ivana Trump.
(09/13/04 5:32am)
NEW YORK -- Spring 2005 Fashion week has been full of surprises -- supermodels walked in the shows of unknown designers, and the lights went out before one of the biggest shows of the season. \nAs Fashion Week continued, designers surprised their fans with a blending of clothing inspired by palettes of rose, soft yellow, lavender and white with brown and black. It resulted in a strong yet feminine mood. Sass & Bide, Jenna Rivers, William Quigley and Lloyd Klein presented unique looks that were bold with a soft sexuality. Donald Deal and Zang Toi presented more elegant looks with a modern edge of sleek sophistication. \nAmid the sparkling jewel-like clothes of spring, Ivana Trump and her entourage were doused in champagne by another guest. They were present at both the Toi and Klein shows. Trump said she enjoyed the edge of both shows.
(09/10/04 6:01am)
NEW YORK CITY -- Fashionistas descended on New York City this past Wednesday for the Spring 2005 Olympus Fashion Week. This is the second year Olympus has hosted the event, and with it, they have brought many changes. \nThe week started off buzzing as Olympus along with coordinator Jacque Kelleher set aside room for the Olympus NCCRA auction press conference. Mayor Michael Bloomberg attended the conference. He warmly greeted visitors, thanking everyone for coming to Fashion Week.\nBloomberg then spoke about security concerns and the heightened Terror Alert because of the approach of 9-11's anniversary. He told the crowd that no one should worry. The mayor used the National Republican Convention as an example, saying everyone thought it was going to be like the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago with riots and chaos plaguing downtown. He pointed out how this year's convention had been a success. \nThere are many events happening in New York City this week, including the U.S. Open and the third anniversary of 9-11. These affairs, along with Fashion Week, have attracted many journalists to the tents at Bryant Park. The tents were full as journalists waited to receive their Kipling gift bag full of free items from Olympus. Photographers were also allowed to check out the new Olympus E-1 SLR camera as a part of Olympus' royal treatment given to journalists and photographers. Journalists also received free manicures and bags from Woman's Entertainment Network as they waited for the shows to begin.
(09/09/04 4:00am)
"Vanity Fair," the screen adaptation of the novel by William Makepeace Thackeray, opened this weekend to eager audiences. What they got was a stunning visual tale, with too much drama packed into a two-hour movie. \nThe movie, set in the 1800s, begins with Becky Sharp (Reese Witherspoon) as a young girl in her father's atelier. Her father, a well-known painter, is approached by the Marquess of Steyne (Gabriel Byrne) to buy a portrait of her dead mother for five guinea. The young Becky immediately steps in and tells the Marquess he can have it for a higher price, and the story begins. What follows is a series of events showing Becky Sharp's rise in European society through exploiting people's weaknesses and taking every opportunity that lands in her lap.\nSharp leaves boarding school to live with her good friend Amelia Sedley, played by Romola Garai. They scheme on how Becky can gain the affections of Amelia's brother, Joseph Sedley. Becky tries to manipulate her way into the Sedley family, but gets the boot when her plans are discovered. \nBecky is forced to use her street smarts and ambition to help her and her family rise to the top of society life. During her mountain climb to the top, she encounters many obstacles and is eventually choked by her own ambition. \nThough he script is filled with drama and complex relationships, the characters are not developed. Becky evolves with each tragedy she faces while other characters are left deflated. The relationships in the story are not well-defined. The costumes steal the show, but the content leaves viewers wanting more.
(09/09/04 3:05am)
"Vanity Fair," the screen adaptation of the novel by William Makepeace Thackeray, opened this weekend to eager audiences. What they got was a stunning visual tale, with too much drama packed into a two-hour movie. \nThe movie, set in the 1800s, begins with Becky Sharp (Reese Witherspoon) as a young girl in her father's atelier. Her father, a well-known painter, is approached by the Marquess of Steyne (Gabriel Byrne) to buy a portrait of her dead mother for five guinea. The young Becky immediately steps in and tells the Marquess he can have it for a higher price, and the story begins. What follows is a series of events showing Becky Sharp's rise in European society through exploiting people's weaknesses and taking every opportunity that lands in her lap.\nSharp leaves boarding school to live with her good friend Amelia Sedley, played by Romola Garai. They scheme on how Becky can gain the affections of Amelia's brother, Joseph Sedley. Becky tries to manipulate her way into the Sedley family, but gets the boot when her plans are discovered. \nBecky is forced to use her street smarts and ambition to help her and her family rise to the top of society life. During her mountain climb to the top, she encounters many obstacles and is eventually choked by her own ambition. \nThough he script is filled with drama and complex relationships, the characters are not developed. Becky evolves with each tragedy she faces while other characters are left deflated. The relationships in the story are not well-defined. The costumes steal the show, but the content leaves viewers wanting more.
(09/02/04 5:01am)
Timing is everything in the fashion industry. We celebrate with clothing when things are going well and, as we saw in fall of 2003, our clothing can reflect the state of our economy and the mood of the nation. Now it is 2004, and the look for the season is a lady-like, modest montage of 1940s glamour without the overt sexuality that existed in the past. The days of low-rise jeans, high ponytails and cleavage-baring tank tops are long gone, and I happily say farewell. \nThis year the lady is back and at the perfect time. I was reading an article in Harper's Bazaar titled "Democrats vs. Republicans: Who Dresses Best." The article was filled with photos of John Kerry's daughters, Teresa Heinz-Kerry, the Bush twins, first lady Laura Bush and other female political leaders. Though the article was entertaining, I think it missed a valid point. \nIt wasn't that the ladies didn't dress well. The fact is they are either the wives and daughters of political leaders or political leaders themselves. They can't stray too far from the conservative clothing path. They have to find other ways to gain attention. As I began to peruse the article, I thought of something: these women are strong, confident and sexy -- and they cover up. Even the Watson's girl from the pool commercials has gotten conservative. \nIs it their affiliation with politics? Of course. These are women, who, for the most part, cannot use their sexuality to get what they want or to obtain respect from male counterparts and voters. These women have to use their brains. At any given moment, they have to be sharp as a tack.\nThen, I began to think about the look for fall. It is A-line skirts that fall below the knee, straight tweed skirts, lace camisoles under corduroy blazers, cuffed jeans, pumps, ballerina flats, broaches, animal prints, heavily decorated coats and herringbone hats. The perfect uniform for political debates and conversatives -- modest but attractive. \nNow, when a presidential election looms upon us, it is important for women to exercise their right to vote. This presidential election is surrounded by controversy, desperation and political issues that skin alone cannot tackle. We, as women will have to step up to the plate and show this world a thing or two or three. We will have to use our brains and wear the outfit to match. Important decisions have to be made, and it's important we dress the part for such a solemn occasion. We will look much better at the polls in a blazer, A-line skirt and hat than in a pair of low-rise jeans, flip-flops and a tank top with the word "Glitter" on the front.\nWhen women received the right to vote in 1923, dressing like a lady was still en vogue. Being able to act your age and accept the responsibility that comes with it was a big part in gaining the right to vote. When black women were trying to gain the right to vote, they were encouraged to look respectable and lady-like -- not like today's Britney Spears, who has worn a snake around her neck. \nTo me this year's collections of ponchos, wide leg pants and coats are a symbol of the times. Today's fashion trends show the need to act and look like ladies and not sex objects. This will mean that when we get into the political debates about why women rock and why they should rule the world, men won't be distracted by the butts and breasts that hung out in the past. They will agree because we women will be using our minds and not our bodies. Maybe then men will follow our lead, and campus will be filled with men wearing argyle sweaters, loafers, hats and wool coats instead of baseball hats and sagging pants. Hopefully, our sexy confidence and intellect will help them rise to the occasion.
(09/02/04 4:00am)
When preparing for a class, one has to buy books, double check the class schedule and find out where the classes are being held. The first week of classes can be draining and hectic, but one of the best parts of preparing for school is picking out what you are going to wear. Many people on campus claim to wear sweatpants and a T-shirt to every class, but there are the few who put time and effort into how they look. The golden rule of dressing for class is the better you look, the better you will perform, and freshman Alison Cooper agrees. \n"Dress affects how your professor sees you," Cooper said. "You should look conservative or at least nice for class."\nCooper said for music for the listener, a class where many people struggle to get a B, she would dress in khakis and a nice shirt. She feels dressing in a more conservative manner would help her get a better grade. \nOne thing many people keep in mind at IU is to dress for the occasion. Ashton Jones, a freshman, said she would dress totally different for chemistry as opposed to dressing a little more laid-back for the infamous hip-hop class. \n"I would wear more formal clothes for chemistry, like a straight skirt or nice pants and something more like a pair of low-cut jeans and a tank top and sneakers for the hip-hop class," Jones said. \nThere are so many different activities and classes to take at IU that dressing in the morning can leave people feeling overwhelmed. Most people find solace in fashion magazines and resources that can guide people in school shopping and trend spotting. Editors at magazines such as Glamour, Harper's Bazaar, and InStyle are swearing by animal prints and over-embellished accessories. According to the Pantone Color Book Report for fall 2004, clothes in shades of purple, blue and magenta are must-haves if you want to obtain this season's look. \nAn article in the Pantone Color Book states: "Fall's heritage shades are expressed in luxurious fabrics such as tweed, boucles, jacquards and embroideries often mixed with antique metallics presented in combinations that are striking and unexpected." \nLauren Davis, a senior and sales representative at Pitaya on Kirkwood Avenue, said there are plenty of different ways to wear fall's new looks even on campus. One of the more popular classes on campus is history of rock 'n' roll, and Davis said she would wear an outfit that is fitting for a class with a such a laid-back atmosphere.\n"I would wear something with more of a vintage style. Something like a vintage rock T-shirt and cuff jeans," she said. \nConsidering cuffed jeans are in this fall, Davis said Pitaya is selling a lot of boot-cut jeans, and as of Sunday, it only had one pair of cuffed denim jeans left.\nThough Cooper is a fan of casual dressing, she said she would dress differently for a literature or political science class where you have to give your opinions on important issues. \n"I would cover up; I wouldn't show a lot of skin," she said. "I always cover up, but for a class like that I would wear pants and a nice shirt." \nDavis also said she would dress up a little more for a literature class. \n"I would probably wear a boot-cut jean with a tank and a nice sweater over it, or a cardigan," Davis said. \nIn the August issue of InStyle, it suggests having an A-line skirt (shaped like the letter A) and at least two blazers. You can dress both pieces up or down. \n"We have a lot of A-line skirts, blazers and short jackets," Davis said. "I think an A-line skirt can be worn really dressy or casual. If you wanted to dress it up for class you could wear them with ballerina slippers or T-line shoes." \nIf you're looking to accessorize, the Pantone Color Book suggests fur and decorative purses. The Color Book states: "By far, fall's strongest trend in accessories is fur, dyed in the season's vintage palette, lending Old World glamour to scarves, shrugs, wraps and muffs." \nIf you're looking for accessories to match this season's vintage trend Cactus Flower on Kirkwood Avenue and the Antique Mall at 331 W. 7th St. are the best bets for purses, brooches and hats in Bloomington. So if you're dressing up for chemistry or are looking laid-back for hip-hop, there are plenty of places for shopping in B-Town.
(09/02/04 3:30am)
When preparing for a class, one has to buy books, double check the class schedule and find out where the classes are being held. The first week of classes can be draining and hectic, but one of the best parts of preparing for school is picking out what you are going to wear. Many people on campus claim to wear sweatpants and a T-shirt to every class, but there are the few who put time and effort into how they look. The golden rule of dressing for class is the better you look, the better you will perform, and freshman Alison Cooper agrees. \n"Dress affects how your professor sees you," Cooper said. "You should look conservative or at least nice for class."\nCooper said for music for the listener, a class where many people struggle to get a B, she would dress in khakis and a nice shirt. She feels dressing in a more conservative manner would help her get a better grade. \nOne thing many people keep in mind at IU is to dress for the occasion. Ashton Jones, a freshman, said she would dress totally different for chemistry as opposed to dressing a little more laid-back for the infamous hip-hop class. \n"I would wear more formal clothes for chemistry, like a straight skirt or nice pants and something more like a pair of low-cut jeans and a tank top and sneakers for the hip-hop class," Jones said. \nThere are so many different activities and classes to take at IU that dressing in the morning can leave people feeling overwhelmed. Most people find solace in fashion magazines and resources that can guide people in school shopping and trend spotting. Editors at magazines such as Glamour, Harper's Bazaar, and InStyle are swearing by animal prints and over-embellished accessories. According to the Pantone Color Book Report for fall 2004, clothes in shades of purple, blue and magenta are must-haves if you want to obtain this season's look. \nAn article in the Pantone Color Book states: "Fall's heritage shades are expressed in luxurious fabrics such as tweed, boucles, jacquards and embroideries often mixed with antique metallics presented in combinations that are striking and unexpected." \nLauren Davis, a senior and sales representative at Pitaya on Kirkwood Avenue, said there are plenty of different ways to wear fall's new looks even on campus. One of the more popular classes on campus is history of rock 'n' roll, and Davis said she would wear an outfit that is fitting for a class with a such a laid-back atmosphere.\n"I would wear something with more of a vintage style. Something like a vintage rock T-shirt and cuff jeans," she said. \nConsidering cuffed jeans are in this fall, Davis said Pitaya is selling a lot of boot-cut jeans, and as of Sunday, it only had one pair of cuffed denim jeans left.\nThough Cooper is a fan of casual dressing, she said she would dress differently for a literature or political science class where you have to give your opinions on important issues. \n"I would cover up; I wouldn't show a lot of skin," she said. "I always cover up, but for a class like that I would wear pants and a nice shirt." \nDavis also said she would dress up a little more for a literature class. \n"I would probably wear a boot-cut jean with a tank and a nice sweater over it, or a cardigan," Davis said. \nIn the August issue of InStyle, it suggests having an A-line skirt (shaped like the letter A) and at least two blazers. You can dress both pieces up or down. \n"We have a lot of A-line skirts, blazers and short jackets," Davis said. "I think an A-line skirt can be worn really dressy or casual. If you wanted to dress it up for class you could wear them with ballerina slippers or T-line shoes." \nIf you're looking to accessorize, the Pantone Color Book suggests fur and decorative purses. The Color Book states: "By far, fall's strongest trend in accessories is fur, dyed in the season's vintage palette, lending Old World glamour to scarves, shrugs, wraps and muffs." \nIf you're looking for accessories to match this season's vintage trend Cactus Flower on Kirkwood Avenue and the Antique Mall at 331 W. 7th St. are the best bets for purses, brooches and hats in Bloomington. So if you're dressing up for chemistry or are looking laid-back for hip-hop, there are plenty of places for shopping in B-Town.
(08/26/04 5:00am)
I was in New York on 52nd Street preparing to go shopping when it hit me. I had already been shopping a day earlier, so why was I doing it again? I asked myself, "Do I really want fashion to be the death of me?" I had hit my usual spots like Barami, Kenneth Cole and Aerosoles when I realized fashion is work.\nNot only is being fashionable hard work, but you have to have a fashination with the world around you. \n"Fashination," a word I came up with after all my pondering, means to have a sense of all things artistic and beautiful while having fun at the same time. \nThe keyword is fun. It doesn't mean being pretentious and saying words like "fabulous" every time you feel joy or bragging about the your new Versace skirt even though it's as ugly as sin. Sometimes you have to stop and look at yourself in that out-of-date sweater and hat and say, "Damn I look good, and I don't care if silver isn't in this season." Having fashination means opening up your mind and having fun with fashion, art, food, culture and everything in between.\nThough being passionate about fashion is a big part of having fashination, tunnel vision leaves you boring and one-dimensional. You have to enjoy the art of dressing and living; it can't be a job. Appreciating a good book, watching a stylish movie with friends, eating almond crème brulee after a swordfish entrée at Malibu Grill and then going to see an opera in that really cute black dress and pumps from Cactus Flower is really what it's all about.\nMany people have said fashion is no longer fun and is taken too seriously. I agree. It is more about the money spent than about the design, the beauty and the clothes. Yes, those tweed and patent leather heels in La Redoute are to-die-for, but they would be even better worn while out having fun with friends.\nWouldn't a gray A-line skirt and a pink cashmere pearl button sweater look so good at the chocolate, tea and coffee exhibit at the Lilly Library? That pair of Adidas mules will look so fresh in your Hip-hop class. There is a point when you have to see the world beyond the runways and status-driven Louis Vuitton bag. You have to live a little; no, you have to live a lot.\nAs an arts editor and fashion columnist, I have found that fashion is at its worst when you try too hard, over do it, or just don't have fun with it. So I vow to take responsibility for my sometimes-unfashionable behavior and give the readers of the arts page the most fashionable coverage on events and the arts in Bloomington. This semester, my co-editor Jenica Schultz and I will try hard to bring this town to life through the arts section. We want our section to be a prime example of what fashination is all about. \nWhat is the point of anything if you can't have fun? There is no point. So put on your ballerina sleepers and that wrap-around sweater and go eat a ton of cheesecake while reading about the Saxophone Cartel in the Indiana Daily Student. You can't just wear the clothes, you have to live in them. If you can't have a fashination with life right now, you never will.
(08/26/04 4:52am)
The Black Film Center/Archives has been described as a treasure undiscovered at IU. Located on 10th Street inside the Smith Research building, it is a resource for many students researching black film, black history and black culture.\nAudrey McCluskey, director of the archives, said the center was founded in 1981 to save a dying art form.\n"It started as an attempt to rescue and pursue black history," McCluskey said. "Old films were being kept in people's garages."\nNow the archives boast more than 2,500 movies, documentaries, shorts, posters and interviews, all pertaining to black culture and the black experience. Ketwana Wilson-McCormick, a 2003 graduate assistant and assistant editor of "Black Camera: A Micro Journal of Black Film Studies," a newsletter produced twice each year by the BFC/A containing critiques of old movies, interviews with filmmakers like Spike Lee and articles on how film has affected black culture, said she thinks highly of the BFC/A.\n"I think it has an abundance of material; it is a wealth of information," McCormick said.\nMcCluskey said many students come to the Archives Center to watch a film for class or an assignment, and many instructors use the films in their classes.\n"I think students can access more from watching the films at the Center because if they have more in depth questions about the films, they can really learn from McCluskey answering their questions," McCormick said.\nThe center also receives world-wide attention as result of its Web site. All the films in the archives are listed there. \n"Usually, scholars doing research on black films come here," she said.\nMcCluskey said the Web site has had more than 100,000 hits about every six months, especially from the Arab world. People in Canada, Ghana and West Africa also visit the site. \nThe BFC/A is one of the only Black Center Archives in the United States, McCluskey said.\n"We are truly global. Everybody is interested in black film," she said. "Black film has few experts, and we are one of them."\nThe success of the Black Film Archives can be attributed to the support the BFC/A has received from outside sources. They are funded by internal grants and have also had support from the chancellor.\n"The support we receive isn't necessarily monetary, but sponsors will lend their names to endorse us," she said.\nThe BFC/A has been endorsed by the likes of Ruby Dee, Ossie Davis, Blair Underwood, Tavis Smiley, Sidney Poitier, Renee Poussaint, Melvin Van Peebles and Spike Lee. \nThe archives have attracted many people to the University and to the BFC/A, said Natasha Vaubel, professor of contemporary black film. Two years ago, Peebles was at IU as an artist-in-resident at the BFC/A and taught a class on script writing. Director Lee has also come to IU to speak and check out the film archives.\n"It brings very important filmmakers here so they can teach the students about the films and interact with them," Vaubel said.\nVaubel said at least four of the filmmakers whose works she shows in her class have come to visit IU and the BFC/A. Vaubel and McCluskey said showing the films from the BFC/A in their classes has enhanced the experience, and the students are able to learn more about the history through film.\nMcCluskey said she feels many black students have very little knowledge about black history and the Black Film Archives is a way for students to learn and engage in discourse.\n"Film becomes a venue for discussion. It gives a chance to talk and have open dialogue about issues facing the black community," she said. "If I lecture about it, you might be interested at first, but then you get bored. If I show you, it affects your conscious in a different way."\nMcCluskey uses some of the films in her class "Africana Women Filmmakers in the Diaspora." McCluskey uses the film to get emphasize her lectures, but also to deconstruct the negative models portrayed in many Hollywood films. \nVaubel said she also uses the films to talk about the history of film and to show how some filmmakers work to deconstruct the essentialist view in films.\n"There is an emphasis on black films counter to Hollywood. We look at old stereotypes continue today in film," Vaubel said.\nMcCluskey said she is not interested in having every black film made and denounces movies like "Booty Call" and "Sprung." She said the Black Film Archives wants to reflect the diversity in black films and that is why she also is partial to independent filmmakers like Julie Dash and Charles Burnett.\n"We prioritize age films from the 1920s through 1930s. We have a collection policy that focuses on age, value and diasporic independent filmmakers," she said. "We are interested in filmmakers who may not be household names but have an important message to give about the everyday life in the African-American world."\nThe collection contains film shorts dating back to 1894, films such as "Birth of Nation," made in 1915, and several movies by Oscar Micheaux, the first black director. The collection also includes modern films.\n"We try to select films that generate discussions, like "Monster's Ball" and "Training Day," because of their content, and both lead actors have won academy awards," McCluskey said.\nThough it is called the Black Film Center Archives and most of the films are black films, McCluskey has extended the collection to include Africans in the Diaspora. McCluskey insists that everyone has a story and that the story of apartheid in South Africa is waiting to be told on film.\n"When you get out into the world, you have to step back, and there is a whole different existence and experience outside of America," she said, "and you get to see a different kind of film."\n-- Contact arts editor Patrice \nWorthy at pworthy@indiana.edu.
(08/25/04 5:11am)
The Bloomington Area Arts Council experienced a stroke of good fortune this summer as the staff prepared for the BAAC 2004-2005 performance series. On July 28, Bob Rogge, regional manager of Vectren Gas Company presented Kaira Hogle, performance director, and Diana Corrigan, development and marketing director, with a $1,000 check to go toward the 2004-2005 performance series. This is the second year Vectren has presented the BAAC with money to help support the series. Last year, the BAAC was awarded $500 dollars from the Foundation. Corrigan said she thinks Vectren has decided to give to the program because of its commitment to the community. \n"I think ... they believe in the program, and by giving the award, they are supporting their customers in two different ways: by helping to enhance the community and supporting the BAAC," Corrigan said. \nRogge, the person responsible for administering the Vectren Foundation grant to the Clarksville Region, said Vectren also supports the community by giving donations to several area programs and the BAAC stood out. \n"As such, I have tried to consider not only the information provided with a request, but also follow-up on which grants seem to have had a significant impact on the community. The Bloomington Area Arts Council meets this additional consideration," he said. \nThe BAAC performance series is a group of plays written by local playwrights that are performed throughout the year in the counties of Owen, Lawrence, Greene, Brown and Monroe. All performances in the series are held at the John Waldron Arts Center in downtown Bloomington. Hogle said helping to produce 18 plays in one season can get very expensive. The BAAC helps each group facilitate marketing, design and print materials, and sell tickets. \n"We're a non-profit organization, so our goal is to cover cost," she said. "Productions are very expensive to put on, and we couldn't do it without underlying support. At least your sure to break even."\nHogle also said the money not only helps produce the plays, but it allows for a better presentation. \n"Right now the floor is being refinished, so it helps showcase the plays in a better, more professional light," she said.\nLast year the BAAC received the money in the form of a donation, but this year it is more like a grant process. Corrigan said the BAAC is working on developing a close relationship with Vectren and Vectren has said they hope to work with the BAAC in the future. \n"We have a very positive relationship with Vectren, They care about the community," she said. \nCorrigan feels the program helps enhance the community by giving people a chance to go see a play by a local playwright.\n"It is our way of helping community programs who don't have space or funding," Corrigan said. \nThe BAAC picks each group through an application process based on talent and how much man power it will take to produce the play. Corrigan said the groups are judged on artistic merit, financial viability, targeted audiences, community involvement, educational value and technical requirements.\nThis year the BAAC is co-producing two new works -- "Loose Hog in the House of God" and "On How to Accommodate Marlo's Frying Pan." Both plays are written by local playwright Thomas Kristopher and Under the Billaim Tree productions. By adding new performances to the regular schedule, they are fulfilling their goal and the goals of Vectren, said Rogge. The BAAC also puts on two children's shows each year in addition to its regular schedule.\n"In terms of Bloomington specifically, we hope the grant will be used to support the Bloomington Area Arts\n Council's efforts to present the arts and thereby further enrich the Community"
(04/29/04 4:45am)
School is almost out and everyone is anticipating the summer weather. I, for one, can't wait. I love hot weather, though I do not like what comes with the hot weather, like mosquitoes and having to take a shower three times a day. I appreciate summer fashion, or the lack thereof. The summer is like a three-month fashion show. All kinds of fashion events are going on, such as Marshall Fields' Fash Bash, and the weather usually permits a full day of shopping and lying around. \nOne of my favorite aspects of the summertime is getting up really early in the morning, putting on my hoochie gear and white Nikes and hanging out on the block. In the city, and everywhere else for that matter, this is a very popular summer activity. Me and my girls will get all decked out in our summer dresses, flip-flops and white Nikes and walk around the neighborhoods socializing with everyone. It is the best. People will get all dressed up just to hang out and go sip smoothies. The summer is perfect for people watching and window shopping. \nWhile l am a big fan of linen pants and long silk dresses, sometimes it is just too hot for clothes. I have to give in to the "video ho" look, and wear a tank top with no bra and a pair of lightweight pants or shorts. It is hot and who cares. I remember the first time I took my boyfriend home with me in the summer. He put on this really fresh outfit to go and hang out in the park. Halfway into the journey his shirt was off and he was sporting a wifebeater with jeans shorts and Timberlands. After that I had to tease him, because a couple of blocks into the journey we stopped at a pizzeria and he couldn't help but comment about the girl behind the counter wearing a tank top and a pair of shorts that let everything hang out when she bent over. I tried to explain to him -- the city swelters, it gets really hot, and sometimes high fashion is not the way to go. Of course he realized this when he was walking around looking like someone out of a hip-hop video. \nI have found that hanging around Bloomington for the summer is much different. For one, there are a lot of mosquitoes and bugs here. I am usually forced to wear pants and a linen shirt with long sleeves, because I cannot stand mosquito bites. Though it gets really humid, I have found that dresses do the trick, along with a lot of hair care products. Though Bloomington gets hot, it does not swelter like the city, so walking around half-naked is unnecessary, but hey, why not. Summertime is perfect to show off soft brown skin. The biggest part of the summer wardrobe is letting it all hang out. So invest in a pair of hoochie shorts, white Nikes, a sun dress, linen pants, a thong and tank top. You can't go wrong with hoochie wear when the temperature rises and and the three-month fashion show begins. If you need pointers, watch a Cassidy video and take notes.
(04/22/04 5:59am)
Saturday night at the "Chicken Ranch," a crowd of about 100 people saw the only student runway show this semester. Jesse Deckard, a senior majoring in fashion design through the Individualized Major Program, said goodbye to IU with style. In a rustic setting on the outskirts of Bloomington, friends and family gathered under a white tent to see Deckard's final project, "Because I'm a woman." Before the show started, all of the guests received a free glass of wine. The speculation was present on everyone's face as they looked at the white 50-foot runway bearing the collection name "Esseja Creations." The event was complete with flowers on each table, a cash bar and a decorated runway. Anticipation was hard to contain as old classmates returned to Bloomington to see the show everyone had been talking about. Allison Elkins, a 2003 graduate of the Costume Construction Technology Program and Deckard's tutu model in the 2003 Apparel Merchandising fashion show, was excited to see what Deckard had put together.\n"I haven't talked to him since I graduated," Elkins said. "This is everything I expected."\nThe extravagant show was an ode to Deckard's idol, singer and songwriter Dolly Parton. Each piece was a reflection of Parton's town trash-inspired image. Deckard even dressed each model in a Dolly Parton wigs and make up. Each model had a male escort that represented Deckard's expression of his chosen lifestyle. The models played off of each other, with the female models spanking the male models, and the female models singing to remixed version of Dolly Parton songs. \nMichael Vollbracht, head designer of Bill Blass, said he was proud of Deckard for sticking to his guns. Deckard interned at Blass for three seasons. It was there that Deckard had chance to work with Vollbracht and explain his vision. \n"I love someone who has a point of view," Vollbracht said. "I am happy he did not give into the fashion industry and he went along with the Dolly Parton theme because she is not that fashionable." \nVollbracht said he completely understands Deckard's inspiration, and he can relate to how he feels.\n"As a person in love with Elizabeth Taylor during the 1950s, I understand his love affair with Dolly Parton," he said.\nThe crowd cheered when the first model, Cissy Saylor, arrived on the runway wearing a teal green sequined strapless mini dress with a teal organza princess seamed overdress. She was followed by a male model wearing a teal organza shirt with green satin drawstring pants. \nThe third look on the runway was an alternative piece called "I Can See the Light of The Clear Blue Morning." This piece was a red butterfly silk dress with a diamond neckline, puff sleeves and glass panel inserts. The male model, CJ Vallero, wore a glass panel male corset with black leather striping and clear vinyl hot shorts over a red butterfly g-string. \nDeckard, who said he lives by the Pantone color book given out New York Fashion Week, was right on time with the outfit titled "High and Mighty." The entire outfit was pink, with model Kerry Hall wearing a hot pink sequined strapless princess dress with a metallic pink organza overdress that draped off the shoulder and sleeves. The look was completed with thigh high gold boots. The male model, Robert Kane, wore a stretch organza turtleneck top with an open back and hot pink sequined shorts. "High and Mighty" was one of his more conservative looks, but the color pink and the sequence commanded attention on the runway. \n"It took hours to make the fabric -- we stretched it and pulled the yarn with rubber gloves to get the squiggly look I desired," Deckard said. "I was amazed at how well the model pulled off the essence of the dress, with the whole high and mighty theme." \nDeckard said the models and their display of the clothing was what he was looking for. \n"I think all my girls transformed on stage and that is what I wanted," he said. \nDeckard said he wanted the models to own the runway and not show the clothes in a traditional way. \n"I didn't want it traditional; I didn't want a traditional walk on the runway. I wanted them to own that runway and say we are here and we are not messing around," Deckard said. \nThe next look was one of Deckard's favorite pieces. It was an alternative piece called "Shine," made completely out of mirrors. The crowd oohed and aahahed as the model slowly strutted down the runway in a black bra and panties underneath a bandeau-style dress with fringe made out of mirror. The look was paired with black thigh high boots, which complimented the outfit as model Vanessa Brenchley sang to the music.\n"The model for the mirror dress worked it," Deckard said. "She looked really good."\nBoth the female and male models had a chance to express their sexuality with the outfit, "I'm the queen of the sleazy tabloids." The models danced on the runway clad in black faux leather. The theme was inspired by a dominatrix with the female model wearing a black leather top with a sheer front panel, a fitted mini skirt with black sheer die panels and chain detail. The male model was dressed in a black sheer shirt, with a black satin collar and chain lacing. The black leather pants had a sheer front and back panel, worn with a black satin g-string and laced up the side with chains. \nThe outfit embodied the homoeroticism of the show as both male and female models were shakin' it to the music. \nDeckard said he choose to do menswear for several different reason. \n"Nobody ever does menswear at IU," Deckard said. "I thought how could I convey me as a person struggling through high school with my definition of self." \nDeckard said he felt the audience appreciated the homoeroticism of the show -- and he received no criticism for making it such a big part of the show. \n"I think they enjoyed seeing something like that on the runway if anything, they thought it was going to be worse," Deckard said. "When people see homoeroticism, they apply a negative connotation to the word, it's not negative it's a part of people. It was a part of the creativity of the show." \nA hush came over the crowd as model Kate Walter walked down the runway in the final piece. The outfit was titled "Heartbreaker," wedding dress made of white silk brocade trimmed with mercury beads, sequins, and mercury crepe flounces. The model had a custom-made parasol, and a kimono brought back from Okinawa, Japan by Deckard's grandfather. The male models were more like flowers boys dressed in white silk hot shorts with matching mercury beads and sequined neck ties. Deckard was most proud of this ensemble.\n"I think my favorite piece of work was my wedding dress, and the mirror dress comes closely behind," he said. \nThe crowd cheered and clapped to the music as Deckard came out to thank his friends and family for all of their help and support. \n"Without all of these people who have helped, this show would have never lifted off the ground," he said. \nAfter the show, the audience let loose, ate catered food and watched performances by Miss Gay Indiana 2003, Alana Steele, and newly crowned Miss Gay IU 2004, Bianca Defy. Deckard said he was pleased with how everything turned out. He said everything down to the last detail was a reflection of him. The audience seemed to love the event, and many were not surprised at the magnitude and extravagance of the show. \n"As usual he exceeded expectations, but I knew it would be something fabulous," Elkins said. \nKate Rowold, an IU fashion design professor and curator of the Elizabeth Sage Collection, agreed.\n"I knew it would be terrific, it was a wonderful culmination of the program," she said. \nDeckard had so much fun with the show, he is looking into having another on campus open to the public. \n"I would love to do an encore show to represent my work, the students and the quality of the students at IU," Deckard said. \nDeckard isn't sure if an encore show is possible because of funds, but Deckard's mother, Marcella Brinson Ruth, had one thing to say. \n"Anyone who didn't come to the show missed a spectacular event," she said. \nFor more information contact Jesse Deckard at essjacreations@yahoo.com.\n-- Contact assistant arts editor Patrice Worthy at pworthy@indiana.edu.
(04/22/04 5:49am)
While flipping through my April issue of Vogue, I stumbled across a letter to the editor about one of the most important accessories a woman can have, the handbag. The writer, Jessica Scicchitano, said she never understood the rule of fashion for having one must-have handbag per season. I must say, I completely agree, I have never had one bag for one season. I know there are must-have bags, but one bag -- that is crazy. \nWhat is a girl to do on a date if she is wearing a pink skirt and has a brown handbag. If anyone needs an excuse to have multiple bags, college is it. I have found in college you have to have a bag for books, and even that bag has to look good. I prefer a black bag for my books, but of course I have to be able to take it anywhere. I personally like cloth bags for my books, but right now I'm using a black Kipling bag one my my writers brought back for me from New York. The black bag is convenient, considering most of the school year takes place during fall and winter, and who can resist New York black? \nNow spring is here there are so many different colors to choose from. Right now, I am using my orange Coach oversized tote for just about everything. I am in love with that bag, just because it is orange and no one is wearing an orange bag. I see lots of girl with the pink bag and the Louis Vuitton bags, but I have always gone against the grain. The orange Coach bag suits me fine, plus orange is a color that is in this season. As I began examining my bags, I realized something. None of my bags are the standard handbag or purse. I have a Liz Claiborne brown leather purse used for interviews and conservative day and afternoon settings, but everything else is meant to be something else and is doubled as a handbag. \nIn an attempt to save money, I have begun using makeup bags as purses, especially for parties. I have a bag from Bath and Body Works that is a makeup bag but works even better as a purse. It is the perfect size and shade of irridescent sea green. I like to use this bag in the summer, when I go out to lunch. \nRecently, I sent one of my fashion writers on a mission to bring me back a bag from New York. She brought back a MAC makeup bag. When I saw the bag, I didn't think of makeup, I thought\n"Ohh this will be so cute when I go out." The bag is a small black pleather clutch bag with white stitching and a round silver zipper puller that fits perfectly around my finger. When I wore it to a fashion show, no one knew it was a make-up bag. In fact, I received compliments. \nYou have to have multiple bags for all occasions. A www.msn.com article encouraged women to have multiple bags. The last time I was at home, I went on a shopping spree in Victoria's Secret. I accidentaly walked out of the store with one of those shopping bags you aren't supposed to take. Now it is mine, and I will definitely wear it this summer when in NYC.\nEvery woman should have one for work, play and dressing up. A simple black bag for school works, but a leather bag in orange, red, brown or green is great because those colors can go with different outfits. You should also have a bag for just sitting around and having fun and a bag that is an expression of your own personal style. But please, please avoid the backpack handbag at all costs, because the tiny shape does not look good on top of an adult rear end.\nLast summer in New York, a lot of people were wearing bags shaped like shoes. I didn't give into that particular trend, but I just obtained a catalog from Frederick's of Hollywood that has a purse shaped and decorated like a corset. So I guess all I have to say about the one-bag-per-season rule is, what rule?
(04/16/04 6:00am)
When a small-town boy from Spencer, Ind., sets his sights on bigger dreams, many would call it impossible. This weekend, Jesse Deckard, a senior majoring in the fashion design program will prove with hard work and determination, anyone's dreams can come true. \nDeckard will present his final project in the form of a runway show titled "Because I'm a Woman." The show will start at 7 p.m. Saturday at the "Chicken Ranch." It will include 60 pieces with 17 different looks, all inspired by singer songwriter Dolly Parton. \nDeborah Christiansen, a fashion design professor, said Jesse excels at production and extravagance. The show will have a 50-foot runway, cocktails from 6 to 7 p.m, a free glass of wine for all in attendance and a reception celebration ball, including a performance by 2003 Miss Gay IU. \nExtravagance and going all-out has always been a part of Jesse's style. As a young boy, he used his creative talents to enhance whatever it was he was creating. Growing up, Jesse was a member of the 4-H club. He said he didn't have much of a life because he was always working with cows. \n"I won the herdsmen award every year," he said. "I would doll up the stalls and transform the area into huge exhibits and themes and built on them every year."\nDeckard said his career choice is a far cry from the farm boy he used to be. \n"It is interesting the path I have evolved from. Coming from the background I come from, you would never think I would be doing what I am doing," Deckard said. \nWhat he is doing is following his heart and working to become a designer for his role model Dolly Parton. His inspiration has won him several awards in fashion competitions and the chance to intern at Bill Blass for three seasons. \n"He is a very talented young man," said Michael Vollbracht, head designer at Bill Blass. "He is diligent and a hard worker. I enjoyed the experience working with him, and I hope he enjoyed it, too."\nDuring his internships at Bill Blass, Vollbracht said Deckard was able to work with top models in the industry, help put together the runway shows and accomplish everything he was asked to do.\n"I think the experience was beneficial to him," Vollbracht said. \nDeckard said he has always liked being able to create. He loves party-planning and big, fabulous events. He has decorated for weddings since he was 13 years old, and his upcoming show isn't too far from what he has done all of his life. \n"My show is like a big, gay wedding," he said. \nThe collection is named "Esseja Creations," and Deckard said the show will feature a wedding dress, the best drag queens in Indiana and colorful and racy looks inspired by country singer Dolly Parton. Dolly has been a big inspiration to Deckard since he was in the second grade. In high school, his appreciation for the singer grew because of her love of diversity. \n"I grew up in a community that turned it's head on diversity; Dolly always had something positive to say about diversity," Deckard said. "A vast majority of her fans are gay men. She loves that she is represented, and people love her it's her following." \nDeckard said eventually he started looking at Dolly not as a person or what she had to say, but for her clothing. The clothes in the show are based on Dolly Parton's DD chest and small waist. \n"It is extremely difficult with a chest that big and a waist that small," Deckard said. "It is like putting six yards of fabric in one seam." \nThough the process were challenging, Deckards talents prevailed. All of the female looks are a reflection of Dolly and her "town trash" inspired look. The male pieces are a reflection of Jesse and his pride for his sexuality. \n"The line is inspired by fetish and homoeroticism," he said. "I wanted to convey what I think of sexuality and my sexuality." \nHis designs feature black pants with a sheer front panel that lace up the side with a G-string. Another look for men is a pair of red pants that lace up the sides with silk and a matching female outfit made of red silk brocade with flounces in the front. The models will be wearing wigs and platform thigh boots in red, silver and gold to match the sexy outfits. \n"The models will be playing characters on the runway," Deckard said. \nThough a runway show isn't a requirement for the seniors' presentation of their collections, Christiansen said the show will definitely be a reflection of Jesse and his inspiration.\n"A huge, over-the-top runway show is not a requirement of the program nor is the number of ensembles he created, but this was his dream and desire, and he wouldn't have done it any other way!" she said. "It is Dolly Parton inside and out."\nFor more information about the show, contact Deckard at essejacreations@yahoo.com.\n-- Contact assistant arts editor Patrice Worthy at pworthy@indiana.edu.
(04/15/04 5:30am)
Tommy Hilfiger visits Indianapolis and signs photos. Tommy Hilfiger goes to California, and a runway is built, the stars came out and it looked like a good time. I must admit, saying the Midwesterners are with it is one thing, but where is our party? When they said progress is slow, they meant it. The fashion gods are wearing half smiles, not a full grin. Bloomington is moving into the future, but the progress seems to come only with the force of a Mac truck. \nAnnette Askew, events coordinator for Lazarus-Macy's, said when the store begins carrying a new line, most designers do not go to Indianapolis to introduce it. The fact Tommy Hilfiger came to Indianapolis is progress within itself. Most people who are into fashion sit around and wait for the next big thing to come. We love people-watching and seeing who looks fly. We love going to the fashion shows and watching them on television or on the computer. There is no business like the fashion business. No one parties like fashion people. \nNow that the end of the semester is approaching, there is plenty to look forward to. Jesse Deckard is hosting one of the biggest fashion shows of the year. No organization is putting it on, but he -- a fashion design student -- is putting it on, and from what I hear, it is going to be fabulous. Finally, something to be excited about, a place to dance, drink and surround yourself in fashion. A runway and tents, now that's what I'm talkin' bout. Not to mention a cash bar. Another design student, is holding a show with a more avant-garde twist. The clothes will be on display while people walk around from one look to the next. Can we say classy? The slew of shows this year has been amazing. It has been fashion, fashion and more fashion. Oh, people of Bloomington and IU, we are getting somewhere!\nI want to give a shout out to the Apparel Merchandising Organization, the Black Student Union, the School of Law, all of the writers who have written about fashion and of course, the photographers. We have finally convinced everyone, "No really, we do wear clothes." Now, with the ending of the school year we get to see the fashion design students do their thing. They get to put on their own personal shows like a mini-fashion week. Yes, I said it, a mini-fashion week. I figure if we can all join together to write the articles, organize the shows and go see them, a mini-fashion week isn't too far off. Our peers are presenting their work, and we should all be proud and show our support. Instead of dissing each other, we should work together to make it even better next year. We should also work together and pray IU is represented in the Women's Wear Daily college issue, and we should strive to make it every year. Whoever said there was no fashion at IU was blind. Maybe the Mac truck will run them over. Fashion is an art form, and it should be celebrated properly. \nThe students deserve our support, and why not? Our athletic department isn't looking too good, so this year the fashion crowd has picked up the slack. If President Adam Herbert wants to see a good football game, he is going to have to wait until next year. While he is waiting, he can come see a show and find out what everyone has been talking about. Fashion is IU's new sport, complete with verbal violence, competition and girls in skimpy outfits. \nI hope to see plenty of people at the student shows, as it will be a fun time. Besides, how else would you spend this weekend? IU is proof if you build a runway ... they will come.
(04/08/04 5:50am)
There comes a time in every person's life when he or she has to let go of certain things they hold dear. Ever since I was a little girl, I have had a hard time letting go of certain articles of clothing. It could be anything -- old shoes or jeans with holes in the bottom. \nWhen I like something, I tend to get really attached, and if someone tries to take it away I will get a crazed look in my eyes followed by unreasonable actions. One time, I got into a screaming match with my boyfriend over a pair of old shoes I wore until they had holes in them. What can I say? I get attached. I still wear Pumas I have had since seventh grade. \nNow that I am older, I've found letting go is a part of growing up. Over the past month and-a-half, I have cleaned out my closet several times, but I still have lots of things I will probably never wear again. Each time I go back, I have to think of a different strategy to rid myself of some very tacky items I still have stored away. Every time I clean out my closets, I find the same clothes I never wear are still there. I'm pretty convinced I black out when I am cleaning my closet and the items just don't go into the trash bag.\nIn the April issue of Vogue, there is an article titled " Behind Closed Doors" about reselling your old clothes. Of course, the women in the article were selling back couture items and some very expensive clothes, but I decided to follow suit. I have nice clothes to give away, or so I thought.\nI tried to give away a pair of green suede pumps and some other items to Plato's Closet and they wouldn't take them. I was so embarrassed. It was at that moment I realized I have a problem with letting go of old clothes. Come on, if Plato's Closet wouldn't take them, then they must have been really outdated. \nSo I have decided to clean out my closet and get rid of everything I do not wear, regardless of how special it is to me. To be quite honest, some of the stuff is no more than junk. In the same issue of Vogue, there is an article about ex-model Jennifer Gimenez and her battle with letting go of clothing. Apparently, her weight has fluctuated over the years, and she has learned to let go of clothes that do not flatter her figure. \n"What you won't find in her closet are clothes that are too small for her ... She hasn't even saved any of her beloved Azzedine Alaia from back in the day when she modeled for him," the article read. \nThe article inspired me in so many ways, especially since it concluded her actions are a sign of not living in the past. So I have decided to live in the present and throw away things which I cannot fit into. I have a pair of cargo jeans from five years ago I haven't thrown away -- and let's face it -- even if I could get into them I would not wear them in public. I am a pack rat, and a I need to unburden myself. \nFor instance, I have a pair of white windbreakers I wore with a North Carolina Tar Heels jersey. I would still have the jersey if one of my so-called friends wouldn't have stolen it from me. Anyway, I think it is time to rid myself of these pants, but it is so hard to let go. \nThey hold so many memories. I wore those pants when I was dating my first boyfriend, and now that I think about it, I will throw them away. Hindsight is 20/20, and your vision should be too when looking over old clothes. \nSo if you see a trash bag full of Pumas, green suede pumps and tacky shirts, it is probably mine. Of course, I am going to burn the white windbreakers. Maybe the sayings "if you really love something let it go," and "if it was meant to be it will come back," will prove true. Maybe -- just maybe, my old sneakers will come back as lace up Gucci boots.
(04/06/04 5:20am)
Tommy Hilfiger, a designer known for his stylish casual wear, is growing up and bringing his clothing with him. Hilfiger greeted fans Friday at the Castleton Square Mall in Indianapolis to introduce his new upscale clothing line, H Hilfiger. The new collection came out of a need for a luxurious line that catered to adults and to boost declining sales in his mens' line, Hilfiger said.\n"As I grow up, I think my customers should come along with me," Hilfiger said. \nHilfiger described the line as a more refined line of clothes that can be worn from day into evening. H Hilfiger will be a more expensive line because of the fabrics and quality used to create the clothing. \n"We have never used 100 percent silk before -- now we are using silk, fine cottons, leather, suede and stretch fabrics with new colors and silhouettes." Hilfiger said. "I took the idea from Seville Row in England with the English bankers that would wear flannel suits with bright colored shirts and ties." \nHilfiger said he wanted to inject color into the mens' line, but many people questioned it asking if men were really going to wear pink button downs and brightly colored striped shirts. \n"Now that our shirts are selling, we can't keep them in the store. Jay-Z and Puffy wear the shirts, saying they traded in their jerseys for button downs," he said. "Button downs are the rage among young college kids and golfers. We are selling a lot of knits." \nThe line will be sold exclusively at Federated Department Stores, and the Castleton Square Mall is the state's only location where the H Hilfiger line is available. Annette Askew, special events director at Lazarus-Macy's, said there is one primary store in each city that will have the line. Other cities carrying the line are Cincinnati, Louisville, Ky, Dayton, Ohio, Memphis, Tenn. and Atlanta. Askew said she is excited about the new line and has high hopes. \n"I am very thrilled he came to Indy," Askew said. "We hope we will profit. Everything is selling. We are getting the tailored suits, and while not all stores have the men and womens' lines, we have both."\nHilfiger said the idea behind the line came from him having to make clothes for himself when he wanted to dress up.\n"I had to start making clothes myself, like the tailored jacket, and button downs with two buttons on the collar," he said. "I would make them, and everyone would want one." \nThough the Tommy Hilfiger collection caters to casual styles, many upscale styles could be seen on the runway, but not found in stores. \n"We would put the dressier clothing on the runway, and only make a few styles for the stores," Hilfiger said. "You would see ads that said 'sold exclusively at Tommy Hilfiger stores,' but there weren't that many."\nHe said the production of the new line completes the Tommy Hilfiger collection.\n"I had been wanting to do a more upscale line for some time now," he said. "I felt like the label wasn't complete until now."\nTo help sell the new line, Hilfiger got the idea for an ad campaign featuring Iman and David Bowie wearing pinstripe suits. He said he wanted to use the couple because they represent the current social climate.\n"They, as a couple, make the H Hilfiger line more refined and grown-up," he said. "I like that they are a diverse couple -- It says being in an interracial relationship is OK."\nAfter he introduced his line, he did a walk through one of his sections within Lazarus - Macy's, and then greeted a crowd of fans from all over Indiana. \nAngela Dunn, a loyal customer to Hilfiger, said she was happy Hilfiger came to Indiana because there are so many people in the state that love his clothes. \n"We have so much Tommy stuff," Dunn said. "You pay a little more but it holds -- the shoes and jeans last forever." \nWhen most designers introduce a new line, they usually begin the production of a fashion show, but Hilfiger is opposed to the idea. \n"I am not terribly excited about putting on an elaborate show for the press," Hilfiger said. "The consumers don't get to see the show, and they need to see the clothes, so we are putting the show on the road." \nHilfiger said he will incorporate some of the H Hilfiger collection into the regular fashion show, but he wants the consumer to be a top priority. As a part of his expansion, Hilfiger has launched Tommy Hilfiger Woman, a line that includes up to size 16 and Tommy Petite. He has also just signed Beyonce Knowles as the new face for his Tommy fragrance. He is also opening stores in China, Japan and India that will include the look of H Hilfiger. He also said the company will be selling the same clothes in Indiana, New York and L.A. \n"The Midwest are just as with it as people in New York," he said.\n-- Contact assistant arts editor Patrice Worthy at pworthy@indiana.edu.
(04/01/04 5:57am)
The fickle weather is really beginning to bother me. I have been waiting to write this column for some time now, but I can wait no longer. I thought I'd write a column about shopping when the weather is nice, but spring break brought snow and it still keeps raining. So, in an impatient tantrum I looked at the forecast for this weekend, and I am happy to report it will be partly cloudy with a 95 percent chance of shopping. The weather will finally permit for spring shopping to commence. What a blessing. \nBloomington is one of those places that is great for eclectic, vintage shopping. One of my favorite stores is Cactus Flower, located at 322 E. Kirkwood Ave. The store is appealing because it has the trendy bohemian clothes and the vintage, circa-1950 embroidered jackets all under one roof. You can't beat it. It's full of clothes that can satisfy any feminine flight of fancy. I especially like its collection of Indian-style earrings and scarves. The store is perfect for anyone indulging in the feminine look and looking for spring styles. Plus, they sell Prada knock-offs at a good price.\nPitaya and Cha Cha are also good stores to visit if you are trying to find something feminine for spring. These two boutiques cater to the eclectic, yet in-style college student. They have everything from pink lace shirts to the A-line pink, white and black skirt currently seen in the window. The look of Kirkwood is definitely in this season. \nIf you are looking to take a weekend getaway, Chicago would be my No. 1 choice because it is close and harbors some really off-beat places for shopping. I can't front. Chicagoans know how to style. \nJust a couple of weeks ago, I sent a fashion writer to Chicago to check out some of my favorite spots. Of course she went to Michigan Avenue and Marshall Fields on State Street, but there is so much more to shopping in Chicago. There are the boutiques in Wicker Park, Bucktown and Lincoln Park that carry well-known designer labels next to local designer lines at reasonable prices. Although I love those places, one of my favorite spots to go shopping is at Indian Town on Devon Street. Indian Town is perfect for a full day of shopping or for fashion design students looking for material. The streets are lined with fabric stores, clothing stores, restaurants and beauty salons. \nThey sell some of the most ornate strappy sandals for really cheap prices, along with those chandelier earrings that are in style. \nAnother great perk is the variety of fabric stores. You can get all kinds of silk satins in just about any color. The only catch is you have to buy them in seven-yard pieces because the fabric sold is for saris. Of course there are ways of getting around that. If you go, always ask for the scrap box. The scrap box contains pieces of leftover fabric used to make saris and veils. You can get up to three or four yards of silk for $10. Last time I was there, I found a two-and-a-half-yard piece of pink silk charmeuse for $10. The best part is you can negotiate prices and come out with a ton a fabric for $30. After you're done shopping, you can take advantage of the culture on Devon Street. I like to go get my nails done and my face threaded for about $15. Threading is a hair removal process that uses actual thread to twist the hair off the face. It doesn't hurt much and leaves your face feeling smooth. Between shopping and threading I get hungry, so I usually visit one of the many Russian eateries and feast on bean pies, spinach pies, meat pies and caviar spread. \nWhen in Chicago, don't skip the Salvation Army. You can find vintage Pucci and Gucci for almost nothing, and no one can beat a Pucci dress for $20. \nIf anyone is planning on going to New York, I suggest visiting the obvious places like Fifth Avenue, SoHo and NoLita. These places are great for people watching, eating and, of course, shopping. Another neighborhood becoming fashionable is Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Williamsburg is the neighborhood you enter right after you get off the Williamsburg Bridge. It used to be my hideout from all the hustle and bustle of Manhattan; now it has become very fashionable with little boutiques, unique clothes created by up-and-coming designers, and restaurants and clubs that have a laid back style synonymous with Brooklyn. \nSo if you have been itching to shop the way I have, I hope this column was helpful. Shopping and saving money go so well together. While taking those weekend shopping expenditures, don't forget to catch a bite to eat in Indian Town or get a cup of joe at a coffee shop in Bucktown or Williamsburg. It is so relaxing to be able shop, sip coffee, eat and not think about homework until it starts to rain again.
