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(03/25/04 5:17am)
I have realized the fashion industry is very exclusive. The most people get to see of the industry is on television and through magazines. This limited view of the industry tends to create stereotypes concerning fashion and the people who love it. Although some of the stereotypes can be scathing, others are quite comical. \nOne of the biggest stereotypes of fashion people is that we are all derelicts who sit around sipping martinis talking about the next orgy we are going to attend. I have concluded this stereotype was taken out of thin air by someone who did not understand the passion or process of design, photography or writing. \nTo set the record straight, fashion people are not stupid. They are some of the smartest people I have ever met. When statements that undermine the intelligence of fashion people are made, it doesn't make the perpetrators look like rocket scientists. Making such a statement takes for granted the mathematical intelligence needed in order to design, pattern, draft and sew. \nMaking patterns from scratch isn't easy -- and it doesn't come easy to most people the first time around. You have to be able to calculate measurements in your head accurately. For instance, when drafting a neckline you have to draw lines that are 1/12 of a bust measurement minus 1/4, and then do 1/12 of the bust or 1/6 of the neck measurement plus 1/2 , and that is just a part of the process. \nBesides the calculations being difficult when dealing with measurements like 38 and 3/4, you have to be able to do them in a timely manner on a ruler. I dare anyone to say fashion people are stupid to a fashion design student who just finished making a tailored suit for a hunchback. The reaction won't be pretty. \nAnother stereotype I find amusing is fashion people are always dressed to impress. I remember bringing pictures home of Ralph Lauren and Michael Kors, and my boyfriend's little brother saying, "Why are they dressed like that? If I were him, I would be fresh from head to toe." I usually ignored remarks like that, because I thought, "They know not what they say." \nThen one day a co-worker said, "You don't dress up. Most fashion people dress up. The ones I see are always dressed up."\nI thought to myself, "The ones I see" -- as if he was schmoozing with these people everyday, and "they are always dressed up." Meaning every time you see them in a magazine/television, or meaning after they just got done working until 3 a.m.? Statements like this are weird to me. When people go to fashion week, they will see designers come out and take their bows in jeans, a wrinkled shirt, sneakers and with bags under their eyes. If you have ever seen a model in passing, not on the runway, they are not dressed up. In fact, I noticed the look is "I just got out of bed and decided to put on cowboy boots." \nIf you want a show, build a runway and hire a make-up artist. If you want real life, go to a designer's studio during fashion week. The grueling hours and the pressure to create a great show are apparent when you meet the photographers, models, designers, seamstresses and writers. \nOne of the most irritating and far-fetched assumptions is fashion is irrelevant and tripe. To say fashion is irrelevant is a narrow-minded view of the world. As long as the law says we have to be covered in public, fashion will always be relevant. Clothing appeals to us for the exact reason it is considered to be a tripe subject -- because of adornment. \nIf fashion doesn't matter, then go to a job interview wearing a warm-up suit. When an intern for Vogue writes me and says "jobless and creditless" college students can't afford designer threads, it begs the question, what did she wear during her internship, and has she noticed the Louis Vuitton bags, Juicy Couture sweats and Kenneth Cole coats on campus? Of course many people notice it and that is why there are internships at Vogue. To claim college students can not and do not pay attention to fashion ignores the buying power of students trying to make a good impression, or just wanting to be in style. \nTo claim nothing fashionable is going on in Bloomington is like saying the fashion shows student organizations coordinate are not worth the coverage they receive. If fashionable events weren't taking place on campus, they would not be in our paper. If fashion wasn't important, I wouldn't get letters. Economist Thorstein Veblen summed it up when he said fashion is just as important as war, sports and politics.
(03/25/04 5:00am)
Maxim's Hottest Woman of the Year for 2003 is now starring in one of her most complex roles, with a movie due out April 9. Elisha Cuthbert, siren and star of "The Girl Next Door," and award-winning actress on the dramatic series "24" speaks about her experiences in a starring role. In this interview, Cuthbert speaks candidly about her experiences playing a porn star, co-starring with Emile Hirsch and her future endeavors as a rising sex symbol and full-time actress. \nEditor's note: This interview took place as a conference call between several writers including Weekend writer Patrice Worthy.\nQ: How did "The Girl Next Door" differ from your other movies?\nA: "I am used to playing on a drama that involves real-life issues like death and pregnancy, so being in a movie where I have to be funny all the time was challenging and different. At the time I was filming "The Girl Next Door," I also had to be on the set of "24," so it was a challenge going from a dramatic set to playing a porn star. I would come to the set of "24" with my costume from "The Girl Next Door" on and everyone would be like, 'Whoa!'" \nQ: What was the most challenging part of playing Danielle?\nA: "Well, I picked the role because it was challenging. I have never played a character like Danielle before, and the transformation she makes from being 'the girl next door' to Athena, the porn star, is a real challenge. She goes from being normal to this out-there girl in nails, a wig and boots."\nQ: Were there any inhibitions you had to let go of to play the role in "The Girl Next Door?" \nA: "I had to definitely begin to let my guard down. I researched the role by talking with some porn stars, and asking them what (making a porn movie) was like. I realized you have to be very self-confident to be a porn star, and I had to let go of some of my own stereotypes about porn stars and their feelings. I learned the porn industry is a huge industry and lots of people are making money. It's crazy! Luckily for me, this girl was not happy with her life, so that made it easier on me." \nQ: Why didn't you do a nude scene in the movie? \nA: "When I took the role, I had a meeting with the director and I told him I would do the movie, but I would not do a nude scene. I felt it was unnecessary in the movie, and I really wanted to develop the role. It made me really proud because to go to a director and say I am not doing a nude scene in a movie about porn is crazy." \nQ: Do you think as you get older your views on nudity will change? \nA: "I know as girls get older their body image changes. I'm not saying I don't feel secure enough to do one now, but I don't see myself doing a nude scene in the future. It is not something I want to do." \nQ: How do you feel about being voted Maxim's Hottest Woman of the Year? \nA: "Oh my God, it is crazy. When I found out I thought it was great, but it is going to take some getting used to."\nQ: Do you ever get the stereotypical diva attitude?\nA: "Sometimes it comes out, but only around close friends and family. It comes out when I have had a rough day, or I am really tired and I come home and go on about this and that happening. I am really careful about it, and it only comes out in private or behind closed doors." \nQ: What other roles would you like to tackle in the future? \nA: "I would really like to do drama. Like I said before, I am really interested in roles that are a challenge and where I can bring something unique to the table. I picked "The Girl Next Door" because of her transformation from everyday life to a porn star. Even though doing comedy is challenging because you have to be funny all the time, I would like to do more drama."\nQ: What movies have influenced you as an actress?\nA: "The Girl Next Door" was very much like the movie "Risky Business" ... I like movies like "Risky Business," and the "Breakfast Club." Those are the movies that I am inspired by and that is the feel I like into bring to a role." \nQ: What about Emile Hirsch, would you date him? \nA: "Emile is such a sweetie, and he is really cute. I think I would date him in real life"
(03/24/04 8:29pm)
Maxim's Hottest Woman of the Year for 2003 is now starring in one of her most complex roles, with a movie due out April 9. Elisha Cuthbert, siren and star of "The Girl Next Door," and award-winning actress on the dramatic series "24" speaks about her experiences in a starring role. In this interview, Cuthbert speaks candidly about her experiences playing a porn star, co-starring with Emile Hirsch and her future endeavors as a rising sex symbol and full-time actress. \nEditor's note: This interview took place as a conference call between several writers including Weekend writer Patrice Worthy.\nQ: How did "The Girl Next Door" differ from your other movies?\nA: "I am used to playing on a drama that involves real-life issues like death and pregnancy, so being in a movie where I have to be funny all the time was challenging and different. At the time I was filming "The Girl Next Door," I also had to be on the set of "24," so it was a challenge going from a dramatic set to playing a porn star. I would come to the set of "24" with my costume from "The Girl Next Door" on and everyone would be like, 'Whoa!'" \nQ: What was the most challenging part of playing Danielle?\nA: "Well, I picked the role because it was challenging. I have never played a character like Danielle before, and the transformation she makes from being 'the girl next door' to Athena, the porn star, is a real challenge. She goes from being normal to this out-there girl in nails, a wig and boots."\nQ: Were there any inhibitions you had to let go of to play the role in "The Girl Next Door?" \nA: "I had to definitely begin to let my guard down. I researched the role by talking with some porn stars, and asking them what (making a porn movie) was like. I realized you have to be very self-confident to be a porn star, and I had to let go of some of my own stereotypes about porn stars and their feelings. I learned the porn industry is a huge industry and lots of people are making money. It's crazy! Luckily for me, this girl was not happy with her life, so that made it easier on me." \nQ: Why didn't you do a nude scene in the movie? \nA: "When I took the role, I had a meeting with the director and I told him I would do the movie, but I would not do a nude scene. I felt it was unnecessary in the movie, and I really wanted to develop the role. It made me really proud because to go to a director and say I am not doing a nude scene in a movie about porn is crazy." \nQ: Do you think as you get older your views on nudity will change? \nA: "I know as girls get older their body image changes. I'm not saying I don't feel secure enough to do one now, but I don't see myself doing a nude scene in the future. It is not something I want to do." \nQ: How do you feel about being voted Maxim's Hottest Woman of the Year? \nA: "Oh my God, it is crazy. When I found out I thought it was great, but it is going to take some getting used to."\nQ: Do you ever get the stereotypical diva attitude?\nA: "Sometimes it comes out, but only around close friends and family. It comes out when I have had a rough day, or I am really tired and I come home and go on about this and that happening. I am really careful about it, and it only comes out in private or behind closed doors." \nQ: What other roles would you like to tackle in the future? \nA: "I would really like to do drama. Like I said before, I am really interested in roles that are a challenge and where I can bring something unique to the table. I picked "The Girl Next Door" because of her transformation from everyday life to a porn star. Even though doing comedy is challenging because you have to be funny all the time, I would like to do more drama."\nQ: What movies have influenced you as an actress?\nA: "The Girl Next Door" was very much like the movie "Risky Business" ... I like movies like "Risky Business," and the "Breakfast Club." Those are the movies that I am inspired by and that is the feel I like into bring to a role." \nQ: What about Emile Hirsch, would you date him? \nA: "Emile is such a sweetie, and he is really cute. I think I would date him in real life"
(03/11/04 5:17am)
I had to see what all the fuss was about. Everyone was talking about the new Target opening. I couldn't go anywhere without hearing about it -- the bus, the newsroom, campus. "Target has a Starbucks and a Pizza Hut Express. They have everything," they tell me. So yesterday, I finally did it. I made my pilgrimage to the new Target. Before I made my journey, a friend called me on her cell phone and said, "Everyone and their five kids are here." \nThen another friend told me about the new magnetic controlled cart that stops just before you go into the mall. So my anticipation was mixed between excitement and a fear of hearing screaming babies every five seconds. But I went anyway.\nFirst, I checked out the home accessories, and I saw stuff I never knew I needed. Pretty trash cans, decorative foot stools and pillows -- and the coveted vanity stand. I didn't have any money, though, so I was safe. I wanted everything from the bath towels to a wooden hole punch. I must admit, Target has great home décor. \nThen I made my way over to the clothes, and I saw a few things I liked. I saw lingerie that even had the new built-in garter belt pantyhose. Go Target!\nOne of my friends tried on a pair of cargo pants with a low-cut V neck sweater, and it looked really good. Then I got to the shoe section and saw a pair of brown boots and brown heels I really liked. The heels looked like something women wore in the 1970s when they would go out to dance all night. They covered the heel and the toe, leaving the middle of the foot exposed, with a strap around the ankle. I was starting to see what all the fuss was about, but, once again I didn't have any money, so I had to keep moving. \nAs I looked at and examined more clothes, I stumbled across something that shocked me. It was an Isaac Mizrahi shirt with "ISAAC MIZRAHI" across the front. I thought to myself, "Is Isaac Mizrahi the Tommy Hilfiger of Target?" And at $14.99 each, that wasn't too far-fetched a question. Isn't Target supposed to be reasonable? \nHaving names plastered across the front of your chest was out years ago. While it is nice Target is offering designer labels, or former designer labels at good prices, some things just shouldn't happen. \nSoon, every town with a Target is going to have girls walking around looking like Isaac Mizrahi cheerleaders. They might as well sell pompoms to go with the neon-colored shirts. I was happy to see that the rack of shirts looked untouched. Offering designer clothes is one thing, but exploiting the life out of them is another. \nThings got worse when they said they didn't have any chili cheese nachos, and then my boyfriend turned to me and commented on a little girl wearing a pink and red striped shirt with pink and white striped pants. \n"Look at that little girl. I can't believe her parents dressed her in that," he said. \nAt that moment, I knew it was time to go. Target had gone to our heads. \nI can see it from my apartment -- the massive structure that glows in the night. It sits there, waiting for us to come and spend our money in the new Starbucks and on the Isaac Mizrahi line. I admit I appreciate having a Starbucks within walking distance -- it's a really nice addition to the east side. But, I have to say one thing, consumers should remember it is not Targét, it is Target.
(03/09/04 4:41am)
Rumors have been circulating about Bloomington's College Mall. Why stores are leaving and what is going to happen next are some of the questions many Bloomington-area residents have been asking. \nThere have been several store closings in College Mall, including Lazarus, Baby Gap, Gap, Freshens Smoothies, Gingiss, MCL Cafeteria among others. Mall employees say many residents blame the mall, but Billie Scott, public relations representative for Simon Property Group which owns College Mall, said the closings have absolutely nothing to do with College Mall or Simon.\n"Many of the corporations have chosen to close stores because of bankruptcy or other reasons," Scott said. \nLazarus, a department store that was once located in the mall, closed as a result of a corporate decision. \n"Lazarus made the decision corporately to close a number of their stores," Scott said. \nLazarus isn't the only store that has closed as a result of corporate bankruptcy or a drop in profits. \nB.Moss and Wilson's Leather are also feeling the effects of an economic downturn. B.Moss closed last month and Wilson's Leather is in the middle of clearing out the nearly-empty store. Tina Terrell, a manager at Wilson's Leather, said the closing came as a surprise. \n"The store wasn't doing well. It struggled, but they told us we would stay open," Terrell said. \nTerry Skirvin, College Mall manager, told Business Network magazine, a Bloomington Chamber of Commerce publication, that many of the stores aren't just leaving College Mall, but the corporate offices are closing other stores as well. Wilson's Leather decided to close 155 stores, including the College Mall location. \n"The decision was corporate. They just decided to downsize," Terrell said. "Indy is saturated with Wilson's stores." \nIn the same article, Skirvin said the results of an economic downturn are usually seasonal. \n"If stores or companies are going to file for bankruptcy, you usually see it at the first of the year after the Christmas season," she said. \nScott said the store closings aren't a trend within the Simon Property Group. \n"Occupancy percentages in our mall stay pretty steady," she said. \nThough the process seems slow, it is a part of what happens in malls, Skirvin said. \n"Most of the leases expire at the same time," she said. \nThough there have been several closings in the mall, Scott said it isn't a sign of things to come. \n"There are stores planning on coming to College Mall, so be on the lookout," she said. \nAccording to the article, Dena Mayes-Marietta, marketing director for College Mall, said when stores leave the mall, it gives them more options. \n"When stores leave, it just creates an opportunity for us to fill niches in the market that aren't being served by somebody else," she said. "Just because one tenant leaves doesn't mean there is nothing going on behind the scenes at that store space."\nAbout 95 percent of the store spaces in the mall are leased, Mayes-Marietta said. \nThough a number of stores have left, new stores have also popped up in the mall. Yankee Candle, Motherhood Maternity, 5-7-9, Subway, Hot Topic and Target are all new to College Mall. \nScott said Simon tries to accommodate multiple interests in its malls. \n"Obviously, we try to make each of our malls the best it can be for people and the community," she said. \n--Contact assistant arts editor Patrice Worthy at pworthy@indiana.edu.
(03/04/04 5:37am)
Two British supermodels, Twiggy (1960) and Kate Moss (1990), strutted down the runway at five-foot-five and five-foot-seven, weighing less than 100 pounds each. The standard of fashionably thin was set. The standard was to be tall and very slender, with legs up to one's chin. \nOne of the most mysterious aspects of the fashion industry is that it harbors some of the most beautiful people in the world: the supermodels. The supermodel or the goddess of beauty is a rarity not just in American society, but around the world. I don't know many who can name five people who could become a model. It is almost impossible, because the supermodel is more like a mythical figure than a day-to-day girlfriend. \nPeople always ask me, "Patrice, do you ever get intimidated by all those models?" I answer no, but there is a reason for this. In the fashion industry, everyone has a role. Your role may be to design, dress, report or just watch. Most people don't spend a lot of time gawking at the models. Even when they are on the runway, you are looking at the clothes, not the models. I only get intimidated by their height -- when you are five-foot-five and try to dress a person who is five-foot-ten, it presents a challenge. Especially when you have to help them put on a shirt or jacket. Models are just models, human clothes hangers who walk down the runway. They have a job -- being thin. \nOf course, you have to appreciate the beauty of the model/supermodel, but I think appreciation is a as far as it should go. I believe this because like so many other industries, the product is manipulated into being something it is not. Considering all the models I have met and dressed, I will say most of them look exactly how they are portrayed in magazines. But are they a true representation of the model and women in general? The Victoria's Secret catalog stirs up a lot of questions, such as is it humanly possible to be that tall, thin and still have a D-cup? Many experts agree the answer is absolutely not. \n"Their proportions are improbable if not as preposterous (as) those of the women in Playboy," said Holly Brubach in her article "The Athletic Esthetic," published in the New York Times Magazine in June of1996. \nBrubach, along with Nancy Etcoff, author of the book "Survival of the Prettiest," go on to say large breasts are nearly impossible at that weight. \n"Because breast tissue is composed mostly of fat, a woman that bosomy would be fuller in the hips and thighs as well." (Height and weight included) \nBrubach goes on about the Victoria's Secret model and the fantasy that is exploited in the catalog. \n" … Is the result not of what they've done but what has been done to -- or for -- them: breast implants and in some cases liposuction. Even so their legs and arms are never scrawny. Unlike fashion models, these women look as if they have an extra layer of upholstery gently cushioning the sharp corners of their joints," Brubach wrote. \nI don't know if all models have had cosmetic surgery, but I will say the first time I ever saw a pair of breast implants was behind the scenes of a runway show. \nI think American women and all women should take into perspective the model's country of origin. Most runway models aren't from America. Many of them are from Africa or Europe, such as Naomi Campbell, Alec Wec, Iman, Naomi Lenoir, Isabeli Fontana, Karolina Kurkova, Elle Macpherson, Carmen Kass, Heidi Klumm, etc. Out of a list of 50 models, only about nine of them were Americans, supermodels included. Of course, women from countries where they don't eat as much and the food portions are smaller are naturally going to be thinner. Sounds like the standard isn't necessarily American. \nWhile it is nice to appreciate the rare beauty of the Victoria's Secret and runway models, it should all be put into perspective when judging one's self.
(02/26/04 5:12am)
As spring break gets closer, I wonder what I will wear. I have a few engagements planned, but none that excite me enough to spend money. Though I won't go shopping before spring break, I am happy I finally have a style reference for shopping during spring break. \nThis season, some intersting new fashion trends have developed. Some of these are repeats of old trends with a bright twist. Others are continuations of the most fashionable winter looks. \nOver the course of winter, there has been a battle over the color and style for the spring wardrobe. You could see it being played out in magazines such as Elle, Marie Claire, In Style and Vogue. The ads in the magazines were suggesting something totally different than the style advice. \nYou can see Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren ads with models decked out in ultra-bright oranges, yellows and greens. Then, a few pages later, there would be an article about spring's ultra-femme look that suggests wearing skirts in pastel pink, cardigans in white and soft yellow and white pants. \n"Brighten up with spring's freshest palettes of pastels," read the subhead of a Marie Claire article "101 Ideas."\n"What was going to rule style for spring?" I asked myself. Forecasting for this spring was nearly impossible. The only thing I was sure about was chandelier earrings. My shopping was minimal in case something crazy happened, like what happened-- this past winter. \nOn the fall 2003 runways, we saw the mod look and the minimalist look, but that got old quick. After the spring 2004 runway shows, something incredible happened. The looks from the runway began to surface on the streets. Lace became a must for the winter wardrobe, along with wearing pink camisoles as shirts. No longer was it in to wear black boots; instead the furry Uggs of Australia were popping up everywhere -- including IU. The soft ultra femme look had taken over. \n"This season's designers looked to nature -- from the garden to the desert and the beach -- and came away with a true spring palette that is feminine, passionate, rejuvenating and energizing. With bold saturated colors that would do Lilly Pulitzer proud ..." the Pantone fashion color report for spring 2004 read. \nBut wait ... that was the spring 2004 color report, not fall 2003. I will admit after the drab fall 2003 shows, I was waiting for something else to happen. I didn't expect the change to be such a vast difference from what was on the runways. Usually the runway trends or versions of them trickle down into department stores, but not this time. \nOn the cover of the December 2003 issue of Elle, you can see Drew Barrymore wearing a a pink cardigan over a nude camisole with lace trim paired with a bright blue tank underneath. Women on campus were wearing lace tops underneath cardigans in January. The color/style scheme for 2004 was forming. It was a mix of soft, saturated color against a neutral palette. \n"Kick start your khaki classics with easy, breezy whites and a twist of spring's juiciest hues -- fresh lime," the Marie Claire article "10 Items, 10 Ways" said. \nI must say I am very happy the Tommy Hilfiger look didn't take over. In my opinion, the mix of color and ultra femme style is well balanced. The style is soft with an added boost of color for confidence. \nI don't know where I will be going, or who I will see over spring break, but the ultra-femme look does suit me. I mean, I look damn good in pink and lace. Of course, I will add a scarf to anything, but what about shoes? Supposedly, Uggs will still be in for spring, since they are backed up on orders until April. Call me crazy, but I think my sanity will be questioned if I walk around in 60-degree weather with a skirt and a pair of furry boots. And to think all this time I was hoping for a revival of suede.
(02/19/04 4:27am)
Last week was the heart of New York Fashion Week -- a week full of runway shows, parties and free gifts. Unfortunately, I was not able to attend this season, but my misfortune opened my eyes to a bigger picture. On my way to New York, I got into a car accident and so I asked Mallory Zalkin, a fashion reporter for the Indiana Daily Student, to report on the week's festivities. As I was editing her story, I had to log on to an Associated Press site and pick out pictures to accompany her coverage.\nAs I was looking for these pictures, I stumbled across Naomi Campbell strutting her stuff at Sao Paulo Fashion Week. I then stumbled across fashion week pictures from Lebanon, Hungary and Spain. I had no idea all of these fashion weeks were going on at the same time. Although I was supposed to be looking for pictures from New York Fashion Week, my fascination with the bright colors from Lebanon and the abstract fashion on the runways of Brazil got the best of me. \nI began to think of an e-mail I received with links to fashion from Pakistan. I was caught up in the pictures for hours. The bright array of colors and the way fashion was expressed was so different from the American norm. \nEverything was so ornate, and the hand-dyed silks in shades of purple, gold and red were striking. The big eyes peering mysteriously from behind a beautiful sari makes you want to be that girl. From an artistic standpoint, it was absolutely phenomenal. \nTo know the embroidery on some of the garments takes years. It made me think of the different cultures and how each one adds something to the fashion industry that makes it one of the most unique industries in the world. Of course, anyone can appreciate diversity, especially the contribution made by people from different countries. You have to appreciate the Italians for their craftsmanship and ease, the British for their edge, the Japanese for their modern cuts, the French for their luxury and artistic presentation of fashion and of course, the Americans for making fashion functional -- i.e. jeans. \nAccording to Women's Wear Daily, Pakistan, The United States' fourth-ranked supplier of cotton, is planning on making a killing in the American textile/apparel market now that China's cotton supply is scarce. \n"Five of Iraq's neighbors -- Turkey, Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait -- export measurable amounts of apparel to the United States. Jordan in particular has seen its exports grow sharply since President Bush inked a free trade pact with King Abdullah in September 2001, said WWD writer Scott Malone in his article "War & Trade."\nNow that fashion has grown increasingly global including places like Hungary, Brazil, Russia and Lebanon, it makes me ask myself, "What will they contribute?" \nLooking over the designs of Carlos Miele and other Brazilian designers, I must say Brazilians are bringing inspiration from nature directly to the runways with wings, feathers and colors that provoke thoughts of the sky and the rain forest. The Russians bring a sense of drama with long flowing coats, furs and clothes decorated with jewels, the Arabic culture has influenced many with embroidered pants, shirts and headwraps or veils. Now I am seeing shirts and skirts made of Batik, an Indonesian fabric, at LaRedoute and other clothing stores. \nI have found hope in a dark place. I was not able to go to fashion week this season, but I was able to see fashion in a new light as a powerful force that brings us all together. Soon, we will need fashion diplomats, people who go to shows signing international runway agreements and help countries upstart their own fashion industries. Even if there is a war, we still have to look good. Isn't it wonderful when everything comes full circle?
(02/13/04 4:56am)
Every year people look forward to Valentine's Day, and why not? It is the one day when you get to shamelessly express your love to you boyfriend or girlfriend. Though the concept is endearing, many people find themselves under a great deal of pressure to live up to the standards of such a romantic day. Many girls have no idea what to do for their boyfriends. Guys want their girlfriends to be able to brag to their friends about how great their Valentine's Day went. All of the candy, balloons and cards are enough to make anyone dizzy. So here are a few Valentine's Day activities for anyone wanting to pledge their love in a special way.
(02/06/04 5:00am)
Two weeks ago, I had my first experience with making a wedding dress. Normally, I shy away from events like weddings and birthdays because I don't like them. Plus, whenever I look at a wedding dress, I cringe at the satin tulle madness some poor designer had to work with. Wedding dresses usually aren't my style. \nWhen a friend from New York asked me to re-do her dress, my first thought was to say no. I saw how much she loved her husband and the look in her eyes, so, I said yes. \nWhen she brought the dress to me, I had my mind made up to run the other direction. It was hideous. It was a 1970s dress with a shoulder yoke and a lace neck. It had long shear peasant sleeves with lace cuffs, and the skirt was lifeless and kind of just hung from the bodice. I had a lot of work to do. \nIt was me and the dress -- a heap of too much white material that just wasn't working. \n"It needs something," I thought. "She can't go down the aisle looking like the bride of someone who fought in the Alamo." She had to look divine. After all, it was her wedding day. \nI figured it out. The dress needed pizzazz. \nI started hacking away, and the shoulder yoke had to go. I was a little surprised when I examined how to take off the lace without ruining the dress. The previous dressmaker glued the beads on instead of using a needle and thread. Great, now I had old glue to work with on top of antique yellow stained lace. I was afraid bleach would permanently yellow the lace instead of brightening it, so I soaked it in baking soda for two days. \nI got rid of the neckline completely and made it into a low-cut bodice. \nThe bride-to-be wanted to keep the long sleeves, but I didn't. Instead of doing away with the sleeves, I made it an off-the-shoulder dress. Now I was getting somewhere. I dried the lace and began to cut it so only the beaded sections remained. I began piecing it together, and I went for my sewing machine. \nI really knew better, but I did it anyway. I tried to use a machine to sew on beaded lace. All I really ended up doing was breaking my sewing-machine needles and almost losing an eye.\nFinally, I began to do it the right way -- by hand. I put lace on the top and in the middle of the bodice. \nI then began to add life to the skirt by cutting the top layer of material down the middle. Then I gathered it to give it more life. I sewed the skirt back onto the bodice and applied lace trim around the waistline. \nFrom there, I placed beaded trim around the lacing on top of the bodice, around the waistline and down the sides where the skirt split. I took out the zipper and made it lace up the back. A lack of resources for the bride and me forced me to use gift-wrapping ribbon as lacing, and it turned out to be really pretty. The ribbon sparkled down the back. \nI was so proud of the transformation and couldn't keep my eyes off it. It went from plain to being a sparkling dress. The dress fit the bride's personality perfectly. I was so proud of my dress until I got to the wedding. \nThe bride's future mother-in-law told her her hair looked awful and said nothing to me about the dress. Thank God I didn't do her hair. When I saw her with the dress on, I wanted to cry. She looked so beautiful, and she told me she felt beautiful. As a former makeup artist, her face was flawless. \nShe wore her hair down and a little tousled with the floor-length mesh and lace veil placed on top. \nSeeing her in the wedding dress was one of those poignant moments in fashion. The diva leaves and you become a part of something greater than yourself. I can't believe I almost told her no. Like one of the students said in Mary Grusak's tutu class, "It feels like giving birth to a baby"
(01/23/04 4:10am)
One of my friends came up to me one day and said, you should write a column on metrosexuals. I thought to myself, "I am a fashion columnist, I think the Kinsey Institute should tackle that one." Obviously, I didn't know what a metrosexual was. Then he explained, you know the show "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy?" If one of those guys was straight that would be a metrosexual. So, basically a metrosexual is a guy who takes time to look good. Then, I thought, "Why is that a such a big deal?" Before, I could fully think about this word, I was bombarded with articles on metrosexuals accompanied by beautiful pictures of David Beckham. Then I thought, "This is stupid."\nDavid Beckham is not only a soccer star, but he is also a football player, which translates into God in almost every continent on the globe. Of course he is going to look good. I have a problem with people making a big deal out of men wanting to look good. I also have a problem with the word metrosexual. It sounds so awkward and unappealing. \n"Sounds like someone who only has sex downtown or on a subway," said Bob Forest of Tempe, Ariz., in the article published in The Indianapolis Star. \nI agree -- the word makes it seem as if men have never been aware of their appearance, or worse, they are not supposed to be aware. According to the same article, students from Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., placed in No. 1 on their top-ten list of words that should be banned.\nIn my opinion, men are some of the slickest dressers and always have been. Look at Michael Jordan. He never missed a beat in his knee-length lavender coats with matching slacks and sweater. What about Pierce Brosnan with his fine self. He will make any woman take a metrosexual any day. Even the fashion industry is dominated by men who live to dress well and design some of the most stylish clothes on the runways. Men such as Ralph Lauren, Andre Leon Tally, Patrick McDonald, Sean "Puffy" Combs, Michael Kors and Valentino. The list can go on forever. \nThe point is that from the beginning of time, men have adorned themselves. In the animal kingdom, the male species are more embellished with color and frill. \nFor example, the peacock and the lion. I will admit, every culture has a gender code, but I think it was crossed when men started wearing earrings in both ears and Jean Paul Gaultier introduced the male skirt. \nI remember the first time I saw it. I was at a show, and all the ushers had to wear them. It was surprisingly masculine. Made out of worn-out looking leather, the skirt wrapped around and draped all the way to the ankles. It was worn with dark-colored pants underneath. The look gave off a warrior-like quality. It made me think of the hunters and gatherers that embody masculinity. Who would have thought a male skirt could do all that? \nI even began to think of the movie Velvet Underground and Plunkett and McClain -- those were men who really paid attention to their looks and even crossed gender lines with lipstick, nail polish and colorful clothes in purples, pinks and greens. The clothing wasn't just for costume, but each movie showed a true account of men in the glam scene and high society who lived to flamboyantly adorn themselves. In both instances, this excessive adornment was not considered out of the norm. They also accessorized these clothes with huge hats and tight pants that revealed all of their anatomy. \nSo, I agree with the students of Lake Superior State University. Metrosexual should be banned, never to be spoken again. Men have a right to be fashionable without being labeled. In fact, It makes me \nwonder, if society didn't confine men to the suit and tie, what would they choose to wear?
(01/16/04 4:26am)
For some reason, fashion seems to bring out the dark side in people. A person can be a designer making beaucoup money, a model that looks perfect 24 hours a day or a consumer that has the right outfit and will carry the "no one can touch me" attitude. Fashion people are notorious for being high browed, snooty and nasty people. During my short time in the fashion industry, I have come across a lot of people. Many of these people -- models and designers -- have been the warmest and most welcoming people you would ever meet. But I have found the worst attitudes come from the ones trying to become famous. I admit I have taken part in many fashion wars. I have received letters from girls that are bitter and jealous and girls trying to put personal ads in the paper disguised as letters to the editor. \nC'mon, I really don't need to know your boob size. \nThen there are the wars that come from competition. When I was at fashion design school in Chicago, we loathed the Columbia girls because we competed for the best dressing and modeling jobs. Or when Phoebe Filo left Stella McCartney's side to design for someone else, the media had a field day with that war. Fashion wars come and go, but then there are those that last years.\nOne would think that if a person is living a dream life and looks like a god or goddess, a beautiful attitude would follow. Fashion breeds some of the cutthroat people, including myself. Over break, I realized exactly how ridiculous attitude and fashion wars can become. \nI decided to ask my mother for a pair of very fashionable warm boots. I didn't see a problem with it, considering I pay my own rent, tuition and whatever else I need. So one day, I told my little sister, Deanna, to put my mom on the phone, and I asked for my boots. All of a sudden I heard this bull horn in the background, screaming: "Why does she get a pair of expensive boots, like she done came up." \nThat is when the war began. \nFrom that point on, my little sister was everything but a child of God. No longer a family member, she was an enemy standing between me and my boots. She had to be taken down. If anyone has a sister -- or like me, two sisters -- they would know fashion wars can become incredibly hostile and violent. My little sister is a model in training, so that just adds to the attitude. \nI tried everything -- reason, name calling and even the name-off. The name-off is when you name off everything you have ever received from your parents to prove your sibling gets more. Yes, it's low, but I had to go there. I wanted my boots.\nSo, during the tenth round, my sister said, "Okay you can have the boots as long as I get a pair." This was ridiculous since she didn't even know about the boots until I asked. Plus, my mama was not going to drop all that money for two pairs of boots. So, on the sneak tip, I persuaded my mom to buy them for me without her knowing. \nThis is an example of when wars can spin out of control. I will confess to doing things like hiding Louis Vuitton scarves so no one else can buy them and even wearing my roommates' clothes without them knowing. These are examples of fashion guerrilla warfare. You don't even want to see someone wearing the same outfit as you, it's at least enough to give a girl a stroke. When people wage war, it brings out the ugly in all parties involved. Deanna blocked my style, so I had to counter-attack. Now I am going to buy my sister the boots, drop her off in Siberia, pick her up a week later and ask, "Are they warm enough? I needed to know before I get my pair"
(01/14/04 4:27am)
Ice Cream Gelato is hard to miss. Located in College Mall, the shop nestles close to the South entrance. And the shop's namesake, the gelato, is as brightly colored as the décor. Bins of bright green, pink, yellow, white and purple fill the coolers. These colors are a direct result of the natural fruit and ingredients used to create the creamy treat. \nGelato, the Italian word for ice cream, originated in Sicily during the 16th century. According to www.specialty food.com, the word gelato is the past participle of the Italian verb gelare, "to freeze." The ice cream is made very slowly with whole milk, cream, eggs, sugar and fruit, nuts or purées. It has little or no air, which makes it more dense. Plus, the low butterfat content means more intense flavors. Chemical stabilizers and emulsifiers are not used. \nThe gelato is homemade by Grace Lee, one of the shop's owners. Lee takes pride in the fact the gelato is all natural. She uses whole milk and natural ingredients instead of artificial flavoring and syrups like regular ice cream shops use, she said. \n"For instance, if it is chocolate, I use milk chocolate and sugar," Lee said. "People like the chocolate flavor because it is from Italy, and most people like European chocolate better." \nChocolate isn't the only flavor people come back for. The most popular flavors at the shop are the fruit flavors. \n"They like the fruit ones a lot because it's fresh fruit and it's not so heavy," Lee said. \nNot only does the gelato taste exactly like its fruit flavor, but if you look closely, you can see the strawberry seeds in the strawberry gelato and the kiwi seeds in the kiwi gelato. \nYisel Burns, a mall employee, stops at the shop on her breaks. She said she likes it because Ice Cream Gelato uses real fruit. \n"I like the Mango, Kiwi and Pineapple flavors -- it is really good," Burns said. \nLee notes the flavors Burns likes are the ones without milk. \nWhen Lee and her husband Sukwon Lee, came up with the idea to open a gelato shop, they wanted to provide a light, healthy product. She also said the gelato appeals to Bloomington residents because of their health conscious attitudes. \n"People here care about health -- it's like a little California," she said. \nThough the Lees opened the shop for Bloomington residents, Susan Jacobs, an employee and sophomore majoring in dietetics, said most of the people who visit the shop are from New York, New Jersey and California. \n"A lot of people in Bloomington don't know about it. People from bigger cities tend to like it because they are familiar with gelato," Jacobs said. \nBlair and Mary Roderique, who just moved to Bloomington from New York City, are prime examples of this. They come to the shop every time they visit the mall.\n"We usually get the mango and green tea gelato," Blair said. \nThey say the shop is a fresh addition to Bloomington, and they miss the gelato shop from the Chinatown ice cream factory they used to visit in New York. \n"It is nice to see people in Indiana branch out and have new things," Mary Roderique said. \nThe shop offers more than gelato, it also offers sandwiches with chips, smoothies, coffee, tea and other products. \nJacobs said the gelato is addictive and the sandwiches are really good -- especially the bread. \n"(The bread) is so good but she won't tell me where they get it," \nLee is very protective of her recipes and ingredients. She acquires all of the fresh fruit from a market out of town, and the bread is ordered from an unknown source. \nThe base recipe comes from an Italian gelato maker who traveled from Italy to give her private gelato-making lessons. \n"I did not know how to make it when we first got the idea." Lee said. \n"In Italy, it is served softer, but people here are used to firmer ice cream, so I make it to accommodate their tastes." \nShe perfected her recipe through trial and error, and now she can make almost any flavor on demand. \n"Green tea gelato is popular in Japan and China," Lee said. "And I made it because an international student came in and asked for it."\nWhen a Korean student wanted sweet potato gelato, she thought it was a little weird, but made it anyway. \n"Now, lots of Korean students come in to get it because it is popular in Korea," Lee said.\nJacobs said the relationship the Lees have with the customer is what makes the shop unique. \n"They are really nice -- they go out of their way for customers -- they will even come from behind the counter to give you your gelato," she said.\nShe even comments on Sukwon Lee and his humorous approach to customers.\n"Everything he says cracks me up -- he remembers all the customers by face," Jacobs said.\nGrace Lee's aim to please her customers has led her to try new flavors like rum and raisin and cranberry. She also makes gelato cakes for customers.\n"If my customers ask, I will try to make it," Lee said. \n-- Contact assistant arts editor Patrice Worthy at pworthy@indiana.edu.
(01/09/04 6:15am)
I was reading Time Magazine for Kids, and I actually came across some interesting inventions. This year, fabric makers have been taking bold turns, and technology is moving to the forefront of the fashion world. Luminex is on the top of the new fashion inventions list. Luminex is a new fiber that glows. The designers of Luminex took flexible optical fibers and wove them into ordinary fabric. The power comes from a battery woven into the cloth. \nWhen I first heard about the invention, I thought to myself "Who the hell is going to wear a fabric that glows?" Then I asked myself, "Why would anyone wear fabric that glows?" \nBefore I could finish knocking the new invention, I saw a picture of it. I was impressed. It was lively, innovative and sexy. The dress was simple, it was knee length, long sleeved with a cowl neck. What made it stand out was the blue light illuminating from it. I wouldn't wear the dress plain, but I would if it were made out of Luminex. Now, I want a pair of pants that makes my booty light up. At $330 per yard, it will be a long time before I get it, but the fabric is expected to be seen on the runways of DKNY this year. \nAs I was flipping the pages, I came across another fabric that makes people invisible. According to Time Kids, this fabric contains a camera that records everything behind you, giving the illusion of invisibility. According to TIME, it won't be on the market until 2008, but it is still cool. It made me want to sing, "I wear my invisible jacket at night so I can spy on my boyfriends." All these new inventions have me wondering what is next for the future of fashion. \nWhile attending boarding school in Chicago, I became convinced the future of fashion was in the hands of the candy kids I would see at raves. Though I never adopted the style, I was completely in awe of the bright red, pink and blue hair, the reflective elephant pants and glow sticks. I would think to myself "Before long everyone is going to be wearing iridescent visors, glitter and spouting that annoying phrase, 'Are you rolling?'" \nThe candy kids were as futuristic as it got for that time period. In a time where fashion keeps repeating itself, the rave style was refreshing. \nThe future of fashion has been predicted and expressed in many different ways. \nIn the movie "Water World", they wear pelts of fur and leather scrapings. In "Mad Max" and "Thunder Dome," the cast wears warrior clothing in leather and black. People are draped in chains and wear scary looking boots. What about the fashion in "The Fifth Element?" There's a plan -- all the women are models, and the clothing is as colorful as the aliens who visit Earth. I wouldn't mind looking like a model in 2020, but the pink hair might be a problem. \nOne futuristic look I admired was the look of Andre 3000 during his Erykah Badu days. Inspired by George Clinton and his work with Funkadelic, watching Andre was like having a glimpse into the future. The white hair, pink oversized glasses and the pink and fluorescent green balloon pants was a part of the futuristic vibe of ATLiens and Stankonia. What was so ironic about the look was that it was inspired by the past. \nIn my opinion, the future of fashion will be full of bright colors and unique ideas. I think the marriage of technology and fashion is here to stay. I believe fashion will become more and more extravagant and will serve multiple purposes. One example is the no contact jacket. The jacket is fashionable, but it also serves to protect the wearer. Like an electric eel, if the wearer feels threatened they can blast 80,000 volts of electricity through the material. The electric shock will knock any predator back a few paces, leaving the wearer feeling secure and fabulous all in one stride. \nI hope the future of fashion will be as original as I imagine it. I hope I can afford a Luminex handbag by Donna Karan and sport it while wearing my invisible jacket. When the aliens finally land, I want to be dressed to impress or dressed to kill -- whichever fits.
(12/12/03 5:52am)
Throwing fashion to the wind to stay warm is a very practical approach to winter. Then the holiday sales come, and I black out in the mall. I usually give in to winter trends. As I look down at my hands clad in lambswool hand warmers, I am thinking: "why did I buy these?" They are really pretty, but they serve no function -- they don't actually cover the fingers. But I will wear them with a chunky white cashmere sweater, matching scarf and make them work. Winter is about survival, and fashion will survive with a little color added to the palette.\nColors such as yellow, green, white and red are in this season. The colors bring life to what can often turn into three months of slow death. These colors have been seen on Kenneth Cole's runway, especially white pants and skirts. Orange is also popular for the winter. Orange is one of my favorite colors -- I have a bright orange silk sweater I love to wear during the holidays, and I also like to wear a bright baby blue pullover. Sweaters are essential to a winter wardrobe. So, brighten up the winter blues with a bright sweater.\nOne way to add color to your wardrobe is through winter accessories. Scarves, ear muffs, gloves and hats can brighten up a dull winter day. Colorful accessories in yellow, green and pink can accent a peacoat or your winter outfit alone. \n"Add a splash of intense color to liven up a monochromatic color scheme," says fashion designer Carolina Herrera.\nTry getting these accents in cashmere or lambswool. These materials are soft, warm and add a rich texture. The best place for affordable quality cashmere is Banana Republic. \nBanana Republic also offers cashmere socks. They are comfortable and warm, and at $9.99 for a pair of regular socks and $18.50 for a pair of trouser socks, they are worth the investment. Colored tights are also a great staple because they keep your legs warm and guard against cold feet.\nSpeaking of feet, boots are a must. IU sidewalks are covered with sand to prevent freezing instead of salt. Every year I see fashionistas kiss the pavement in a pair of fashion boots with no traction. My suggestion is to find boots with traction. Steve Maddens and Timberlands for women are good choices because they provide comfort and style. \nOn Nicole Miller's runway, models wore short skirts with black knee-high boots and black leg warmers over the boots. The look is flirty but adds warmth. For men Timberlands, Lugz and Frye boots provide quality and style. \nWinter parties are fun, but remember to dress for the weather. If you are going to a Christmas party or a frat party and want to combat the cold, wear a coat. Freezing isn't fashionable, and neither is being sick. Full-length cashmere and wool coats look good with short skirts and a pair of leather boots. I have a full length cashmere coat, and I like it because I can wear it to any occasion and it's warm. Natural fabrics are good for both men and women because they serve many purposes.\n"Instead, try a wool or cashmere blend coat, both of which have staying power…Wear a classic. A lined, belted trench coat can work through fall and early winter. Bonus: It's instantly and eternally chic," says Lisa Kovalovich of MSN. \nAlso, there are also long hooded coats made of velvet and suede that are embroidered and trimmed in faux fur. These coats are fashionable and dramatic. They are perfect on a cold day because you can wrap yourself up in them. \nEveryone should guard against cold weather and damage to skin and hair. My favorite shampoo and conditioner for the winter right now are Redken Smooth Down and Physique. For my face, I use Queen Helen oatmeal and honey facial scrub and AmorePacific face hydrator. H2O Milk Bath products and cocoa butter mixed with tea tree oil are also two of my all-time favorites. These products give moisture to your face without extra oil, making the skin softer. To protect hair from breakage, cover it with a head scarf or use a scarf big enough to cover your head and body.
(12/12/03 5:16am)
Many stores around Bloomington have recently stocked their shelves just in time for Christmas with gifts to suit every whim and need. Stores such as Barnes & Noble, Radio Shack and Victoria's Secret have holiday items on sale to lessen the dent shopping can make on the customer's pocketbook.\nOverall retail sales on the first day after Thanksgiving jumped 4.8 percent from last year to this year and totaled $7.2 million, according to ShopperTrak.\nModern Trends, a hair salon in College Mall, said the most expensive items are the most popular in the shop. \n"Girls are telling people who would actually get them the most expensive item to go out and buy it for them," said Adrienne Kinser, a sales associate at the salon. \nShe said the most expensive items are flying off the shelves, and they have had to re-stock several times. The hair salon's Chi Flat Iron is going for $175 and the Alterna White Truffle Luxury conditioner and shampoo is going for $130. Both are selling fast.\n"College girls love their Chi Flat Iron," Kinser said. \nModern Trends isn't the only store not giving into the traditional Christmas sale. The athletic shoe store Finish Line is leaving its best-selling shoe at its normal price. The Nike Shox running shoe for both men and women is selling well, store manager James Lietz said, but it will not be going on sale. The shoe is $99.99, and comes in black, with air pockets on the bottom. Though the Nike Shox are not on sale this season, Finish Line does have the popular quilted retro jacket on sale for $20.00 off.\n"Anything with a retro license has been popular," Lietz said. \nGame Stop, a store that caters to video game and movie fans, has also seen an increase in sales.\nRon Kolhouse, store manager, said the Playstation 2 has been doing very well this season.\n"I haven't seen so many go in such a short amount of time," Kolhouse said. \nThe game system is selling for $179.99 and will not be going on sale. Kolhouse said the Eye toy, an accessory that goes with the PS2, is also selling well at its current price of $49.99. \nThe prices have not stopped consumers from buying. Kolhouse said he has had a surge in business over the last three weeks.\nHe said Mario Cart, a Game Cube system game, is popular at $49.99, and Need for Speed Underground is popular for all systems at $49.99 also. \nAlong with the game systems, other electronics are also popular during the holiday season. Radio Shack is catering to its customers by putting some of its most popular items in stock on sale. Justin Koharchick said the store's biggest seller is the DVD/VCR combination. \n"It is popular because no one buys tapes anymore," he said. "They buy DVDs, but many people still have tapes."\nKoharchick said the best deal is a Cinevision DVD/VCR combo on sale for $119.99. \nThe Verizon Wireless phones are their most popular phones said Mike Kloage, a sales associate. He said many customers are opting for the LGVX 6000 camera phone that is $149.99 and $99.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate. The phone is very popular among college students, mainly because of its versatility. The camera phone allows users to see a picture of the person calling, send pictures, access the Web and download, and has games, ringer tones and voice-activated text messaging. \nDVDs have also been successful this holiday season said Julie Drake, store manager of Barnes & Noble. The store has 15 of its top-selling DVDs discounted. "Down with Love" and "Anger Management" are 15 percent off, "Tomb Raider: Cradle of Life" is 20 percent off and "Lord of The Rings," the special edition with 43 minutes of new and extended scenes, a four DVD set is $39.99 with 15 percent off. \nThe jump in entertainment is not surprising, and has been tracked by financial experts. \nVisa reported consumers whipped out the plastic 13.3 percent more than last year, with notable gains in travel and entertainment, according to the Wall Street Journal.\nMusic has been selling well at Barnes & Noble, especially local artists, Drake said. Joshua Bell, a violinist and graduate of IU, has released a new CD that has been successful over the holiday season. \n"A lot of people come in and buy it because he was an IU student, but once they hear it they get hooked," Drake said. \nDrake said the "American Idol" Christmas album is also doing well, as is Harry Connick Jr.'s Christmas album "Harry for the Holidays." \nThe buying trend for this year seems to center around electronics and the most expensive items in the store. If it is popular, don't expect it to be on sale. If you need it, expect to pay full price. \nBut most stores hold after-Christmas sales, said Cathryn Lee, store manager at Eddie Bauer. \n"We don't know until after Christmas what is going to be on sale in January and February," Lee said. "If we don't do well, then we will have a lot on sale; we have to make room for our spring transitions."\n-- Contact staff writer Patrice Worthy at pworthy@indiana.edu
(12/09/03 5:14am)
During his four years at IU, senior Jason Lee became an artistic Renaissance man. Graduating in December, Lee said his final goodbye to IU in a recital Saturday in the Frangipani Room of the Indiana Memorial Union.\n"I'm sad and I'm nervous, because I'm leaving college," Lee said. \nThe performance combined Lee's two loves -- classical music and acting. It was a one-man act presented in an intimate setting, with all of Lee's closest friends and associates. \nLee's sister Rebecca Burke is very proud of him and has enjoyed his success. \n"Seeing him perform is wonderful," Burke said. "It has been beautiful watching him evolve."\nLee, majoring in piano performance and theater and drama, has made a lot of memories here on campus. He has been the president of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity and has a successful concert piano career. He is a two-time bronze medal winner of the American Music Scholarship Association World Piano Competition. The win gave Lee the opportunity to play at Carnegie Hall in New York City. He was a also a first place winner in the DeBose National Piano Competition and a three-time winner of the Beethoven Young Artist Festival.\nOriginally from St. Louis, Lee received the Dean of Music Award for Concert Piano when he entered IU in 1999. Many of his peers say Lee has always been an entertainer, even before he entered college. \nLee said one of the most memorable moments is during a summer piano camp when he played a duet with a friend. During the performance, instead of sliding over the pieces of sheet music, he threw each one to the ground. His actions received mixed reviews, but it foreshadowed what was to come. \n"I've always been an entertainer, I was always interested," Lee said. "But I didn't know much about how to go about it."\nLee said he loves piano, but he was always drawn to acting. He has performed widely with IU Theatre, including Junny Buggy in "Playing the Bones," the title role in "Othello" and Jabber/Chilli in "In The Blood." \n"In high school, I would stop watching the movie and pay more attention to the art of the acting, like how the characters did certain things or how they could pull on so many emotions," he said. \nIn his performance Saturday night, Lee played pieces by Claude Debussy and Frederick Chopin. He acted parts from "Top Dog/Underdog" by Susan Laurie Parks, "Funhouse" by Eric Bogisian and "Much Ado About Nothing" by William Shakespeare. The pieces formed a unique montage, but each one represents something different for Lee.\n"They're a big contrast," he said. "I picked them to show my versatility."\nHe said he chose "Top Dog/Underdog" because it is powerful, and Debussy for the parallels between his personality and that of the composer.\n"Every time I perform, I like to portray a picture," Lee said. "And Debussy is impressionistic."\nThe "Top Dog/Underdog" performance moved the audience, as he acted out an emotional scene about Boot killing his older brother Lincoln over a card game.\nJunior Eric Saunders had nothing but good things to say about Lee's show.\n"I had seen the play in New York, and I really liked his 'Top Dog/Underdog' performance," he said. "It was real, especially the last scene."\nFor his final piece, Lee played "Fantasy Impromptu" by Chopin. Lee selected this piece because he said it is a culmination of his college career. \n"The rhythm is four against three, which has been my overall struggle in college to balance two things and bring it together," Lee said. \nAs Lee looks forward to the future, he is ready to move on. He will be the musical director of "West Side Story" at the St. Louis Community Theater, which premieres Feb.13. After that, he plans to move to Los Angeles to pursue his acting career.\n"I've done music my whole life, but my passion is acting," Lee said. "I think music opened the door for acting."\n-- Contact staff writer Patrice Worthy at pworthy@indiana.edu.
(12/05/03 5:13am)
Women don't wear underwear -- they wear lingerie, I read in The New York Times over Thanksgiving break. The phrase brought on a cringe, but it also made me smile. The word "lingerie" has a tendency to do that sometimes. Sometimes undergarments can make me feel very proud to be a woman.\nThen, there is decorative underwear, which can be a little uncomfortable, the kind I call the "they-go-on-to-come-off undergarments." One of my first major experiences with underwear was when I was about 6 years old. It was cold outside, and I had to wear knitted tights to school. I hated those tights and the way they itched. I couldn't stand the way they would get all twisted after I went to the bathroom. So I tried to pull them up. Then I thought, "What about my first ornate push-up bra and panty set?" Oh, how I loved them. \nIt poses the question: is lingerie for function or for show? \nLingerie has always been my favorite part of the holiday season. It's pretty, it's on sale, and it can warm up a bedroom faster than any furnace. Can we say, "I like the way you move," in lace? Women love lingerie; it embodies everything feminine. We love the shiny satin colors, the embroidered pink thong, the red push-up bra that gives the illusion of very expensive implants. \nWe love watching the Victoria's Secret runway show, looking at the decorative undergarments, and thinking, "Yeah right." \nLingerie is for show, and let's face it; we like to keep the playground pretty. It is the perfect gift for a man or woman. If it's your boyfriend's birthday, you can buy lingerie for yourself, and tell him it's for him, that way you both benefit. \nStill lingerie is also functional, but some unanswered questions exist regarding its purpose. For instance, is it white or black lingerie under white clothing? A sales associate at the Victoria's Secret store in College Mall said the best choice is nude lingerie because it obscures the underwear. \nOf course, there are some women who don't waste time on pantyhose and go with the thigh-highs. Thigh-highs can be a very good choice because they are sexy and functional. \nAnother ambiguous question is whether you wear panties or no panties with pantyhose.\nOne day in my Survey of the Fashion Industry class, my teacher asked this question and the entire class was in an uproar. One half of us said no panties, and the other half said panties. The question still goes unanswered. The Victoria's Secret sales associate said it was a personal preference. \nWhat about the nagging question from Grandma, "Do you have on a slip?" \nOnly wear a slip when the dress is shear enough to see through it. But when going for a see-through look, forget the camisole or slip and get a leopard-print bra, or don't wear any undergarments.\nWhile women love to adorn themselves in pretty lace and mesh, we also appreciate being able to take a breath without getting a wedgie. So if you are looking for a variety of lingerie try La Perla, Chantelle, Felina for show and comfort. Try Joe Boxer and St. Eve. for comfort, and Victoria's Secret for bringing the heat. \nUltimately, lingerie is for women. It helps us feel and look good. According to MSN, one of writer Anna Johnson's ways to feel sexy in five minutes is to wear special-occasion lingerie every day. Additions to lingerie are also sexy -- such as perfume, flowers, heels and pillows. \nSometimes, it can be a God-send to have an embroidered push-up bra, silk nylons and tummy control underwear. But it is also just as nice to have boy-cut panties, a seamless bra, a slip and thigh highs you can prance around your apartment in, while sipping eggnog and reading the year ahead astrology guide in Cosmo. \nRemember, lingerie is nice, but like a friend once told me: everything needs air, and Lady Marmalade needs air, too.
(11/24/03 5:41am)
Freshman Lanetz Speller was crowned the 2003 Miss Black and Gold Scholarship Pageant winner Saturday at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater. The event, hosted by Alpha Phi Alpha, is in its 11th year.\nSpeller said she was surprised by the announcement.\n"I think throughout, all of my friends and family support is what got me here," she said. "I will be using it to represent the Alphas better, and to be a role model to others." \nJason Lee, coordinator and host of the pageant, said the final decision was close. Sophomore Tania Taylor was named first runner-up, and junior Uzoma Florence Oluka was second runner-up and Miss Congeniality. \nThe women spent about two and a half months preparing for the event. \n"It was stressful preparing and making sure you make the deadlines, and then preparing for the actual event," freshman participant Vonshay Brown said. \nMiss Black and Gold 2002 Alexis Carter said the preparation was tough. \n"The hardest part was getting ads, on top of trying to stay on top of your game as a contestant," she said. \nThe women said they also benefited from the experience. Lee said they have learned how to work in a group and compromise.\nSophomore Leila Price said she learned a lot from her experiences.\n"I learned how to incorporate all ideas without knocking others down," she said. "It's not just one person's pageant. It's our pageant."\nParticipants were judged in five different categories: goals and achievements, creative expression, talent, formalwear and a question portion. \nThe judges also tallied points for the women's achievements before the pageant, including ad sales, volunteer service, leadership roles on campus and interviews conducted before the event.\nLee said the pageant was the final product for the judges to make their decision. \nThe women displayed their talents to the audience in many of the events. Most read original poems and danced to hip hop.\nSophomore participant Tania Taylor recited a poem called "Wasted," about a woman's decision to have an abortion. The crowd also gave eventual-winner Speller a standing ovation after her rendition of the gospel song "Tomorrow." They interrupted her twice with cheers and applause.\nCarter gave specific advice to Speller, as the newly-crowned Miss Black and Gold.\n"Wear the crown with pride and continue to be a positive light to the campus," she said. "Continue to know you're a winner."\n-- Contact staff writer Patrice Worthy at pworthy@indiana.edu.
(11/24/03 5:25am)
The Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity presented two new members to the Gamma Eta chapter Saturday at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater in hopes of rebuilding the chapter after this year. \nJuniors Antoine Jones and William Speed were given a warm welcome into the fraternity at their coming out celebration that was held after the Miss Black and Gold Pageant.\nSenior Michael House, chapter president, said the men's "crossing" is good for the fraternity. He said only four members will be left in the organization after May, once all the older members graduate, so Jones and Speed are important for the chapter's rebuilding. \n"We throw them into the fire and show them the ropes about how to run a chapter," House said.\nHouse said he is confident in the men and believes their seasoned brothers will teach them the way. He said the chapter has been down to only three members in the past.\nJunior Ueline Newmon, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, said he has a lot of faith in Jones and Speed. \n"I am ecstatic," Newmon said. "I feel blessed to have somebody join a frat for the better. They joined to do something for the people." \nSenior Jason Lee, an Alpha Phi Alpha member, said crossing over into the fraternity is a significant experience in their lives, and they are welcomed with open arms.\n"This is life changing once they join the organization," Lee said. "It's a brotherhood." \nSix hooded men wearing black and gold masks stomped onto the stage, chanting Alpha Phi Alpha slogans. They were accompanied by a grim reaper, who said, "Six were chosen, but only two were frozen," and the remaining four fell to the ground. \nOnce on stage, Jones and Speed took off their hoods and masks and began reciting raps in honor of their big brothers, while a crowd gathered around the stage to look on.\nThese "Neophytes," or new members, called themselves "The T.R.U.T.H." \nJones said his family was very proud of his accomplishment. He said his older brother drove from Alabama to watch. \n"I feel excited and blessed," Jones said. "It was a lot of work and long process. It took diligence (and) patience."\nSpeed said it was hard work, but he plans to keep on putting in a strong effort, while Jones said he plans to bring a sense of leadership and responsibility to the organization. \nAlpha Phi Alpha members from Purdue University, Indiana State University and Ball State University came to welcome their new brothers.\nAlpha Phi Alpha is the largest African-American fraternity in the United States.\n"We have a requirement of a 2.5 GPA, which is one of the highest GPA requirements in the greek system," Lee said. \nHe also said they look for certain leadership qualities in the new members. \n"They have to be involved in campus," he said. "We are leaders. We all hold positions outside of the fraternity. They have to bring something to the table." \nNewmon said he is proud of "The T.R.U.T.H." and feels they will be beneficial to the fraternity. \n"All greeks come from the people," Newmon said. "We are supposed to give back to the people. 'The T.R.U.T.H' is here to give back to people. They did not join for selfish reasons."\n-- Contact staff writer Patrice Worthy at pworthy@indiana.edu.
