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(10/16/12 6:06am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>When it comes to partying, IU students are experts. We wake up at 6 a.m. for tailgates, stand outside Kilroy’s in subzero temperatures just to get stamped, and are happily sleep-deprived for the entirety of Little 500. But when it comes to throwing our own parties, we may need a little assistance.Inside spoke with Valerie Peña, executive director and chief of staff for IU’s Office of Public Affairs and Government Relations, about the best party planning strategies. Peña has taught classes on event planning and tourism systems and says she starts planning her fall tailgates in July. Clearly, she knows what she’s doing. Her number one rule? Plan ahead. “You don’t have to spend a lot of money, but you do have to spend a lot of time,” Peña says. “Throwing a good party means more than opening a bag of chips and pretending you participated. You need to start planning about four weeks out so you have time to get creative.”Peña suggests letting your friends take on specific roles. If one person is in charge of food, another handles drinks, and yet another works on dishes, you’ll have more time to work out the smaller details, such as personalized invites, clever decorations, and other creative accents. “It’s all about setting milestones,” Peña says. “Once you reach a milestone, you address the details: Where will I serve this food? What music will I play?” Here, Inside broke down the tips and tricks you'll need to pull off both an awesome rager and a subdued study party.If you have no intention of studyingKnow Your Numbers ?Because nothing is a bigger party foul than running out of cups. ?1 handle = 33 shots | 1 fifth = 17 shots |1 bottle of wine = 5 glasses |1 keg of beer = 165 (12 fluid ounce) beersThemed Party Ideas Underwater: Try anything from a mermaid to a scuba diver. ?Jungle: Me Tarzan, you Jane. Understand? ?90s: The only time scrunchies and fanny packs are socially acceptable.Tight & Bright: Neon, spandex, and black lights. Don't forget Richard Simmons’ invitation. ?Army / Navy: for a patriotic bunch. “I’m Glad I’m Not”: Dress as something you’re glad you're not. Note: Purdue fans are always a hit. Around the World: Dress as a specific country and offer different drinks to represent each. Margaritas for Mexico, wine for Italy, and ouzo for Greece.The Study PartyStudy sessions are just as much a part of our college experience as crazy parties, but they don’t have to be boring or uninspired. Light snacks, a few sweets, and plenty of tea and coffee add up to an enjoyable evening that motivates everyone to actually get their work done.The FoodDon't serve processed foods out of the bag.Do try options that are satisfying, but not messy or greasy. No one wants to feel stuffed when they’re trying to write a thesis. Instead, head to your grocery’s deli section and pick up some hummus (fig. 3) — or try out the recipe on page 10 — and toast a few rounds of pita bread for dipping. Other snacks to try include veggies, mini sandwiches, homemade trail mix, or chopped fruit.Don't order in cookies or other snacks — too expensive. Do look in your grocery’s frozen food section. Try Tollhouse Break & Bake chocolate chip cookies (fig. 2), but break each square in half to make bite-size cookies. They’re less messy and help your guests control how much they eat. Helpful HintsDon't stock up on sugary soda.Do pick up a few varieties of teas and coffees (fig. 1), plus milk, sugar, and flavored creamer, so guests can customize their caffeine boost. Starbucks VIA packets (hot or iced), Tazo Tea, and Nescafé instant coffee require little effort and come in a variety of flavors.Don't make guests sit on your hardwood floor.Do find some throw pillows or cushions, so your friends are somewhat comfortable as they hunch over their biology books.ADDITIONAL INFORMATION1) Halloween PartyPeople say Halloween is the best holiday at IU, and the nonstop parties prove it. But if you’re planning on hosting your own spooky bash, we recommend you skip the generic spider webs and jack-o-lanterns. Prep: The FoodDON’T: Serve candy corn out of the bag. Or any other candy, for that matter.DO: Fill large glass bowls with creative treats like gummy brains, skull lollipops, and chocolate eyeballs (you can find them on Amazon.com). Set each bowl in a different part of the room so everyone doesn’t crowd around one spot.DON’T: Serve store-bought orange cupcakes.DO: Fill homemade cupcakes with raspberry or strawberry jam for a “bloody” treat. Simply cut a small opening in the middle of the cake, squeeze your filling into the hole, and cover the top with your icing of choice.Prep: The DrinksDON’T: Serve ambiguous jungle juice out of a Tupperware bin.DO: Go to potions class...or at least pretend. In Emily Schuman’s book Cupcakes and Cashmere: A Guide for Defining Your Style, Reinventing Your Space, and Entertaining with Ease, she suggests serving drinks in mason jars with chunks of dry ice in the bottom. The drink itself can be simple – a standard vodka soda or punch – but the clouds of vapor rising from the ice make it undeniably fun. Just make sure you serve your drinks with straws so your guests’ lips don’t touch the ice.2) Dinner PartyThis isn’t your parents’ stuffy soiree with old scotch and pound cake. Throwing a casual dinner party for your close friends is a fresh way to host a meal without dining out or ordering in, and it motivates you to get creative in the kitchen. We suggest creating a signature drink, assembling a plate of appetizers, and, overall, keeping it simple.The Prep: FoodDON’T: Serve chips and salsa, cheese and crackers, or any other generic appetizer. DO: Serve interesting finger foods. Peña loves serving small snacks that are both easy to eat and pack lots of favor. “Smoked sausages in croissants, pre-made raviolis, spreads and dips, chopped vegetables, and kabobs are always great finger food options,” Peña said. DON’T: Serve delivery pizza.DO: Stick to what you know. Whether its pasta, grilled chicken or even breakfast for dinner, cooking familiar meals puts less pressure on you as a host. In Cupcakes and Cashmere, Schuman features an easy-to-follow recipe for homemade pizza that would be perfect for a small dinner party. You can prepare multiple pizzas at once – meaning plenty of room for creative toppings – and baking time is under ten minutes.Prep: The DrinksDON’T: Serve boxed wine.DO: Offer one or two signature drinks like a vodka tonic, gin and tonic, or a martini. Create a small bar station with only the necessary liquors so your guests won’t drink too much. Plus, simple drinks allow your guests to get creative. For example, if you’re making vodka martinis, let them mix their own vodka and vermouth, then supply different types of olives for garnish: standard Spanish olives, gorgonzola-stuffed olives, feta-stuffed olives, etc. Prep: The DécorDON’T: Light a dozen candles. How practical is an open flame in a room full of intoxicated friends?DO: Use electric candles. Peña says you can get the same soft lighting without a fire hazard: “Fill a glass bowl with water and the electric candles can float on top.” You can even float small flower buds or leaves in there for added ambiance.DON’T: Buy a pre-made flower arrangement or centerpiece.DO: Stock up on glass bowls and cylinders at the dollar store for sleek and reusable centerpieces. “Fill a bowl or cylinder with rocks, leaves, Christmas ornaments, flowers, or candy, depending on the occasion,” Peña said. Not only is it easy and elegant, but you’ll also stretch your dollar to practically zero.DON’T: Clutter the room.DO: Include thoughtful details. Create place cards by writing friends’ names on small pieces of paper and tying them to pine cones with colorful strings. Or use pinecones for a rustic fall centerpiece by spraying them with gold metallic paint and arranging them in a glass bowl.
(09/11/12 5:32pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Life is defined by a lot of firsts.There’s the first day of school. First sleepover. First job. First relationship. First night at college. These are things you do on your own — things that shape you. However, this was never the case for me. Until last year, I’d never actually experienced anything by myself, especially those life-changing moments. I always had my twin sister Liz by my side to cushion the blow of life’s challenges. We did everything together. Since the very beginning, we’ve been inseparable. We have the same friends, same sense of humor, slightly different tastes in clothing, are in the same sorority and just short of telepathy, we know each other better than anyone. But it’s all we know — to us, this is normal. That’s why the summer of 2011 was so important. I was going to spend eight weeks in England as part of the School of Journalism’s Summer in London internship program, and not only was I going without Liz, but I was going without anyone I knew. It was the ultimate shock, and it represented a big “first” for me. It was the first time I would be completely independent. Twinless. It was like karma had kept track of all the “firsts” I’d gotten out of and was now serving up a colossal plate of stress on an obnoxious silver platter. I’m typically not one to address my feelings, so in the days before my departure, I went on pretending my mounting fears and tearful nerves simply weren’t there — totally healthy, I know. But hiding my emotions didn’t bode well for me, especially when I landed across the pond. On top of severe jet lag, I quickly felt lost, alone, confused, and defeated. For the first time, Liz wasn’t there to smooth the edges and make things comfortable and easy for me. It was like getting glasses for the first time and thinking, so this is what the world really looks like? I was at a loss. My new friends were 20 years into their twin-free lives, and I felt like a five-year-old who had wandered into the eighth graders’ classroom. Who was I without her? I was convinced the world had only seen me as “one of the twins” and assigned the same qualities to both of us. Without Liz, the illusion was shattered. People would see me as I really was: Introspective. Shy. Anxious. What if there were things I didn’t want to uncover about myself? Was I secretly boring? Socially awkward? I couldn’t just spend two months feeling blue, and I’ve never been one for self-pity. I was surrounded by a wonderful group of people who were more than welcoming, and I had seven weeks remaining. This was my opportunity to grow and learn more about myself. And that’s exactly what I did. One weekend stands out the most. A few students booked flights to Madrid. The old me would have never considered going; I still didn’t know anyone particularly well, so my gut reaction was to say no. But I was ready for a change; I bought my RyanAir ticket before I could reconsider. I knew it would be a huge growing experience for me, and I wanted to spend more time with my new friends. It paid off. I had one of the best weekends of my life. I explored a beautiful city, drank copious amounts of sangria, bonded with incredible people, and realized that I could do amazing things on my own. It defined my new attitude. I left Europe feeling independent, confident and unique — three things I had really never felt before.
(05/04/12 2:21am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>I’ll admit the word “beauty” does sound kind of vain. To most of the world, beauty conjures up an image of a beautiful face, a beautiful body, a beautiful person. What makes us beautiful, anyway? But I’m not talking about anything quite this philosophical.The beauty I’m talking about is more than skin deep. It’s the entire beauty industry: makeup, hair, nails, lotions, potions and serums we curate for our specific beauty regimens. Products that make us feel prettier, happier and more glamorous.It’s this “self-improvement” quality that gives beauty a bad rap. Sure, it’s okay to wear a little makeup, but God forbid you wear it every day. And if you don’t wear makeup, you win some sort of prize.Magazine interviews with stunning movie stars almost always point out how the actress shows up without a single swipe of makeup. Even if this isn’t entirely true, writers tell us these tall tales in an attempt to humanize the goddesses of Hollywood.I always wonder if there is actual evidence that women like reading this sort of thing. Personally, I would rather read about Scarlett Johansson’s daily makeup routine or her favorite lipstick before reading the gut-wrenching “truth” that she doesn’t need a single product to look stunning. Claiming she wears no makeup isn’t humanizing her; it’s putting her up there with God, cupcakes and other utterly perfect things. The truth is that every woman cares about beauty. From a tween’s first Lip Smacker chapstick to your grandmother’s umpteenth bottle of Yves Saint Laurent Opium, every woman has her beauty moment at least once a day. Even those women who proudly claim they don’t wear a lick of makeup still wash their hair with their favorite shampoo and carefully choose a scented bar of soap from the drugstore. It all goes back to beauty. We do these little things to make ourselves look and feel better. And what’s so bad about that?I’ve heard time and time again that women who wear makeup every day are just “vain” and “insecure,” that they need to hide behind Bobbi Brown and Clinique. I could easily rebut this by saying those girls who incessantly pride themselves on not wearing makeup are hiding behind the real shield. They’re insisting they don’t buy into beauty campaigns or feel the need for a little mascara. They’re just above it all and somehow better for it. If that isn’t dehumanizing, I don’t know what is.Instead, I see beauty as something that connects women. It humanizes all of us, in a way. We look different and want different things — even skin, thicker lashes, a brighter lip — but these things bring us together. Despite what people might tell you, nothing about makeup is vain or conceited. You don’t lack confidence just because you swirl blush on your cheeks. Beauty is deeply personal, and when I see women bond because of something like the perfect shade of pink lipstick, I’m instantly reminded of this. — emfarra@indiana.edu
(04/26/12 2:33am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>When it comes to fashion, it’s safe to say femininity rules supreme. From Valentino gowns to the ubiquitous Chanel bag, teetering Louboutin stilettos to Etro floral prints, womanly YSL suits to elegant Hermes leather goods. It’s all made for the feminine, confident woman.Fashion exists for countless reasons, but one of them is to flatter the figure. For centuries, women have wanted to look their absolute best. They wanted quality clothes that slimmed their waists and lengthened their legs. They chose perfect-fit pants and crisp shirts, body-skimming pencil skirts and ladylike pumps. They wanted to look at the very least elegant, womanly and pretty. That’s how it’s been forever — until the ’90s rolled around.It really wasn’t until that Kate Moss era of grunge and waifishness that women stopped dressing specifically to flatter themselves. Floor-length Martin Margiela skirts, beaten-to-shreds sneakers, zero makeup, pale skin and dangling cigarettes were all the rage. Women weren’t trying to look elegant or pretty — they wanted to seem tough, carefree and rebellious. Though Kate Moss remains one of the industry’s biggest influences, her sad, grungy waif look has since retired. Many women, however, have held onto that defiant streak. We’re obsessed with oversized clothes, piled-on jewelry, combat boots and bed-head hair. We’ve updated that ‘90s tough girl – she’s just a touch more glamorous, and a lot more hygienic.Even self-proclaimed girly girls like me are wearing thick-soled Doc Martens, spiky bracelets, heavy chains and sack-like tops. What seemed like a ’90s fad is simply evolving and adjusting as new trends, ideas and styles simultaneously emerge season after season. For example, instead of going all-out grunge à la Courtney Love, girls today pair punky accessories with soft dresses, or clunky boots with floral tanks. It’s that sense of juxtaposition — clever mixing and matching — that captures today’s modern tough-girl spirit. Perhaps we’re simply noncommittal, hesitant to adhere to one specific trend. Or maybe we’re after that effortless “what, this old thing?” way of dressing. We take painstaking measures to appear simply “thrown together” while our ensembles are anything but. Whatever it is we’re doing these days, it seems to be working. The new tough girl is here to stay. We’re seeing her in this season’s leather pants, bustier-inspired tops and shredded Acne jeans, but even more in the covetable accessories: Gucci heels with shark tooth details, Alaïa lace-up heels, industrial Mr. Kate ear cuffs. It may not be ultra-feminine, nor is it flattering, but it definitely makes a statement. — emfarra@indiana.edu
(04/20/12 12:29am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Though the races don’t start until tonight, Little 500 festivities are in full swing. In fact, they have been since Saturday — or sooner, depending on exactly how seriously you take the “holiday.”Indeed, the weekend-long event has been stretched into not just a week’s time, but a 10-to-12-day marathon. In one of my evening classes, my teacher warned us: “Class is not canceled Thursday, so I hope to see you all there!”Truthfully, attendance will probably be at 50 percent, if that. Little 500 is treated with a borderline religious reverence. Schoolwork becomes a laughable task, and everyday responsibilities such as attending lectures, eating balanced meals and wearing acceptable clothing suddenly feel impossible. That last part is especially significant. Themed party outfits, IU spirit wear and those slightly obnoxious fringed tailgate tees become our normal day-to-day ensembles. Any type of “fashion sense” goes out the window. Truthfully, there’s only one semblance of a “trend” seen in Little 500 (at least this year), and it’s neon. I felt like I saw neon everywhere I turned this week, but maybe I’m especially perceptive to the trend because I happen to love it. Neon instantly reminds us of tacky 1980s music videos, but the trend has come a long way. (It definitely helps that our hair has become less . . . gigantic.) Women running around in neon Little 500 gear look cute and festive, not ’80s retro.Neon feels fresh, carefree and a little bit quirky in these modern interpretations. Sometimes it’s all in the details: Shocking pink nail polish, a bold lemon mini bag, neon green sandals or a stack of bright bracelets offer a small touch of the blinding trend.On a less conservative note, you can also be bold (literally) and don bright neon clothes outside the Little 500 sphere. I recently wore a loose, pinkish-orange neon dress to a formal, but sleek nude wedges and a few bracelets kept the look from being over-the-top. Since the DayGlo-inspired dress was loose and tasteful rather than skin-tight and cheap, it felt perfectly of-the-moment.The key is to choose simple shapes and scarce accessories. If you’re a jewelry hoarder like I am, that might feel daunting, but the minimalist approach is truly the only way to embrace this Little 500-approved trend.— emfarra@indiana.edu
(04/12/12 1:21am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>I’ll be the first to say I rarely think about “basic” clothing. Though I usually opt for easy ensembles when I’m rushing to class (i.e., jeans and a loose sweater or tee), I’m not one to simply wear a “classic” white v-neck or button-down.In fact, I’m not sure if I own either of those things.When magazines feature “the five basics you need in your wardrobe” or “the versatility of the white button-down,” I usually flip to the next page. It’s nothing I haven’t seen before, nor do I really want to wear a boring white shirt with anything. Maybe it’s because I wore one for nine years as part of my grade-school uniform, but I digress.Something has changed, though. A combination of the season’s minimalist trend, my sudden desire for a streamlined wardrobe and my upcoming summer internship has made me realize the true necessity of basics.But I’m not just talking any old basics — only the perfect basics will do. For me, it isn’t really your typical list; I won’t be dressing in suits every day this summer, but I still need to look polished and professional on the job. For example, instead of the perfect white button-down, I’m more interested in the perfect white blazer. Ditto for black trousers — I’m partial to black cigarette pants — and a black tulip skirt instead of your average pencil.Putting these little twists on the basics not only adds a trendy touch but also injects an oh-so-basic ensemble with personal style. There are thousands of women wearing plain blouses, black trousers and black pencil skirts every single day, but putting your own spin on those simple pieces will help you stand out as an individual in a sea of business casual clones.The same applies to your casual weekend uniform of jeans, tees and sweaters. Contrary to popular belief, this is the time to invest in your wardrobe. You wear these favorites every week, and extra-soft T-shirts, perfect-fit jeans and stylish outerwear are worth the splurge.Slim denim is the foundation of any wardrobe, and if jeggings just aren’t your thing, a chic, straight-leg style will do. Then add solid tanks and T-shirts in white, grey, black and your favorite colors (mine include mint green, pale pink and coral). Choose only the best high-quality fabrics. All-cotton shirts get holes after just a few wears, and synthetics such as polyester and rayon just don’t lay as nicely.Accessories are also key to nailing the unique-but-still-pulled-together look, both on and off the job. Instead of buying a simple silver watch, try a slightly oversized gold-tone piece by Nixon or Michael Kors. After adding a few bracelets, you’re suddenly the most colorful girl in the room. Instead of your standard black tote, try a colorful clutch or something a little more structured. Statement-making accessories enable you to get dressed in fewer than five minutes — that is, if you have a constant supply of perfect basics. You can just throw them on, grab a colorful bag or scarf and look effortlessly chic all day long. — emfarra@indiana.edu
(04/05/12 2:27am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>This title might look like a joke, and this time last year, it would have been a joke. But it’s not.Unless you’re fashion illiterate, you’re well aware of the biggest “trend” for spring: pastels. I, for one, am a huge proponent of pastels. Give me a pair of tangerine skinny jeans, a baby-pink sweater and lemon-yellow sandals, and I’m a happy camper. (True story: I own all of those things.)Pastel colors are traditionally associated with babies, Easter and/or the 1950s, a time where soft-pink poodle skirts and icy-blue cardigans reigned supreme. I often reference the 1950s as one of my favorite fashion decades, perhaps because I’m a sucker for those full silhouettes and retro charm. So when I look at today’s pastels, I don’t see anything childish or youthful about them. Instead, I’m blissfully reminded of 1950s sock hops and ultra-feminine shapes. Not to mention those prim little cardigans — you might not like them, but I find cardigans impossible to hate.But today’s take on pastels is refreshingly modern. It’s not as if we’re going to wear poodle skirts and granny cardigans every day. As much as I might want to.Instead, pastels are being applied to trendy silhouettes, such as skinny jeans, tailored blazers, silk blouses, chunky wedges and oversized clutches. On simple, uncomplicated shapes, pale colors look chic rather than sugary. I love the idea of spicing up a neutral outfit with a pair of mint-green loafers or a blush-pink tote — it strikes the perfect balance between trendy and timeless.But this is a trend focused entirely on color, so what’s the point in playing it safe? In their spring 2012 runway shows, Giambattista Valli and Louis Vuitton expertly mixed multiple pastel hues. Models floated down the runway in color-blocked pastel shift dresses with playful details, such as oversized eyelets and dainty sequins. Combining periwinkle, peach and aqua suddenly seems progressive and fashion-forward. On these colorful ensembles, accessories were chic and neutral. There was the occasional colored shoe, such as the mint-and-metallic Mary Janes at Louis Vuitton, but most designers favored simple T-strap sandals or pumps to create quiet contrast with the girly pastel hues. Try the look yourself by putting together your simple pastel basics. Wearing pink skinny jeans with a mint-green pullover or yellow flats with a baby-blue sundress isn’t just chic and retro; it’s ridiculously easy. Skip the heavy jewelry, throw on your cardigan (just kidding) and you’re out the door.— emfarra@indiana.edu
(03/30/12 2:17am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Although this is technically a fashion column, I’m taking a bit of a break today to talk about something else: accessories.I know what you’re thinking: “Aren’t accessories the same thing as fashion?” Technically “fashion” is a bit of an umbrella term, consisting of clothing, accessories, jewelry and the like. But those discrete parts each deserve their own attention (or at least a Style File article), and accessories are first on my list.Accessories are not only separate from fashion, which really just involves clothes, but sometimes they feel even more important. This is partially for practicality: Unless they’re especially wild, accessories last seasons longer than their clothing counterparts. But it’s about the entire look — the big picture — as well. What’s a fabulous outfit without the perfect bag or shoe? I’d argue that accessories truly make the outfit. They’re the elements that leave a lasting impression and build your personal style.This is especially significant for girls like me who shop at H&M and own the same clothes as thousands of other women. You can mix and match your clothes any way you want, but accessories are truly the icing on the mass retailer cake. They add that je ne sais quoi.Women have no problem saving most of their spending money for accessories. A hand-crafted, pebbled Céline tote not only feels like a thousand bucks, but it’s easy to justify spending that much on such a beautiful piece of leather artwork (if you have the cash, that is). And unlike Céline, some of the best designers specialize only in accessories, such as Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo and my current favorite, Charlotte Olympia. Some fashion bloggers write exclusively about accessories. It’s no joke.But this isn’t exactly news. Accessories have been around forever, and the men and women who transformed accessories into these coveted, luxurious collectibles have been designing for decades. However, my personal stance on accessories has taken a turn to the obsessive.I absolutely love fashion, and I don’t think I’ll ever stop dreaming up outfits in my sleep or playing with the latest trends. I’ve always loved accessories, too. For as long as I can remember, I’ve longed for a Chanel bag the way most boys want a sports car. But something about this season has made accessories more than a blip on my radar. I’m now completely fascinated by the endless potential of a colorful wedge or the supreme versatility of the right mini bag. Maybe it’s because accessories simplify your fashion choices. Your most basic outfits are instantly chic-ified by a cool accessory; Quirky brogue shoes lend attitude to a T-shirt and skinny pants while a tribal clutch spices up an all-black ensemble.The bolder the better. I love my everyday cognac hobo just as much as the next girl, but it doesn’t create the same effect as a bold or bright accessory. Go outside your comfort zone and try something crazy and out of the ordinary. Take, for example, one of the coolest clutches of the season, crafted by none other than Charlotte Olympia. It’s a slim, clear acrylic box that comes with three interchangeable printed cotton inserts, topped with a gold spider closure. Not only does the clutch fulfill the new futurism trend — lucite is everywhere, and I don’t know how I feel about it — but the leopard, leaf and stripe inserts are playful and versatile.Plus, I totally love that it’s called the “Pandora” clutch. Get it? Pandora’s Box? Fashion unleashed! OK, you get it.As a result of such obsessions, I’ve truly become an accessories maniac. My outfits simply don’t feel complete without them. My ongoing flirtation with colored denim — and floral denim and leopard denim — has subconsciously created my spring uniform: statement denim, white tee, colorful sandals and electric blue cross-body bag, which looks a bit like Jason Wu, but it isn’t. Shh.That kind of easy-but-not-boring, chic-but-not-stuffy vibe is exactly what I’m looking for this season, and I’m compelled to invest in even more bold accessories to stretch my wardrobe. On my list: mint green flats, a purple watch, orange wedges and an emerald clutch. I’m hoping to have the full spectrum covered by August.— emfarra@indiana.edu
(03/20/12 2:40am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>When I tell people I’m a journalism major and want to write about fashion, they’re rarely surprised. I’ve loved reading and writing for as long as I can remember, and I probably told my entire eighth-grade class my lifelong dream of working for Lucky or Vogue. Plus, I’m the first to admit I was one of those obnoxious 13-year-olds who changed their outfit 10 times a day. The thing that does confuse nearly everyone I come across is my art history degree. I’m not sure if there’s some strange stigma attached or if they just view it as a “random” major. I mean, it’s not like it’s my only major, but still.My normal response to this is simply, “Well, I love art.” This much is true, but is “loving” something really worth making room in your schedule for 400-level classes that dissect partially-destroyed Greek sculptures from 530 BC?Well, yes. I’d argue it’s worth it. What’s the point of doing anything if you don’t love it? But what I’ve discovered after three years of those intense art history classes (ranging from Italian Baroque to installation art; Polykleitos to Piet Mondrian) is that I’ve actually become a better writer. Or, at least, a better fashion writer.I initially realized this after posting about my obsession with bright, saturated colors on my blog, twin-studies.blogspot.com. The blog post was about spring trends such as cobalt sweaters and aqua handbags, but all I could think about was how it all resembled a David Hockney painting.Another example: A well-known denim company recently launched a pair of skinny jeans with a bold, all-over painted pattern and dubbed them “the Toulouse jean” after French artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Fashion blogs, magazines and websites all around the world praised the “abstract” creations, blatantly disregarding that Toulouse-Lautrec’s work was, in fact, decidedly non-abstract.Actually, nothing about the jeans felt very reminiscent of Toulouse-Lautrec at all: The giant smudges of “paint” colors were hardly representative of his post-impressionist work.The “Toulouse” jeans honestly remind me of more contemporary art. But I digress.That I was making this distinction at all made me realize just how closely art and fashion are linked. As a true fashion-phile, of course I’ve always believed clothing and accessories are the art of our everyday lives. But my now-extensive art education has helped me understand this side of fashion like never before.In this month’s issue of one of my very favorite fashion magazines, a small blurb about the Prada Spring 2012 collection had the title “Push and Pull.” Before I’d read a single word about Miuccia Prada’s spring pastels and metallic finishes, I was brought back to a particular lecture in my art history class about 20th century art.My professor described a George Braque painting and the “push and pull” created by the different lines and shapes on the canvas. Repeated cubes trick the eye into thinking they’re extending into our space, as if you’re wearing 3-D glasses, but a lack of middle ground snaps everything back to emphasize the very two-dimensional painting itself. As confusing as that might sound, that lecture helped me easily understand that Prada description. The phrase “push and pull” wasn’t used to refer to cubes or paint, but instead to explain the juxtaposition of Prada’s different textures, matte vs. metallic, and the balance of simple shapes and minute, beautiful details. Not only does this make perfect sense to me, but in all reality, that tiny little paragraph inspired this very article. — emfarra@indiana.edu
(03/09/12 3:14am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>I’ve written extensively about Fashion Week, and it isn’t quite finished. But I have to backpedal a bit. Truth: The runways of Chanel, YSL and other fashion giants are the original sources of inspiration when it comes to style. For those who can afford multi-thousand-dollar looks, shopping the latest trends is as easy as going directly to the designer. The rest of us are happy to pull ideas from the runways and adapt them to our own lives.That’s what I love about designer runways. Show me peach trousers at Chloé or a brocade coat at Marc Jacobs, and I’ll find chic, budget-friendly alternatives. I love seeing how Isabel Marant updates the Western style with pastels and slouchy shapes, and I always take note of Jenni Kayne’s sleek textures (this season it was neon + tweed). But the fashion gods are no longer the only source for personal style. In fact, sometimes they’re put on the back burner. Instead, “street style” — the everyday style of men and women about town — is taking the cake for fashion inspiration. Bloggers such as the Sartorialist and Jak & Jil have been documenting street style for years, showing us exactly what it means to have your own unique style. It isn’t about the name on your label but how you put yourself together. Correction: throw yourself together. That “effortless” look is kind of all the rage right now. It’s about mixing high-end designer bag with thrift store finds; Céline tempered with ripped jeans, a polka-dot shirt and red sunglasses. Things that shouldn’t work but miraculously do.This is the exact philosophy that guides the best street style subjects. Bloggers such as Leandra Medine have re-popularized “past” trends and generally left us wondering how they do it. How does Blair Eadie make pink look so perfectly non-Valentine’s Day? Or manage not to look ridiculous when she matches her lipstick to her nails? Street style has truly redefined fashion. It’s no longer a cut and dry, wear-this-not-that philosophy. Who’s to say what’s “in” or “out” anymore? Break the rules. Wear white jeans in winter. Mix navy and black. Wear Converse with sequins. Pair stripes with florals. This new take on fashion — hyper-individualized, creative and personal — feels closer to becoming the antithesis of fashion. An immaculate Chanel suit is great, but it isn’t yours until you mix it with your best colorful heels or a particularly bold stack of bracelets.— emfarra@indiana.edu
(03/02/12 2:31am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>The phenomenon that is Fashion Week is still going strong. In fact, it’s kind of hard to keep up with. Between New York, London, Milan and now Paris, fashion’s globetrotting schedule has flown by at a rapid pace.Classic designers, such as Dries Van Noten, and up-and-comers, such as Anthony Vaccarello, already had jaw-dropping shows in Paris this week, but this is just the beginning.Not only is Paris one of the most romantic cities in the world, it’s arguably the Mecca of the fashion industry. The gods of fashion — Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Hermés and Christian Lacroix — started out in France and were influenced by the endless sophistication of Paris.I’ll be the first to tell you this isn’t a cliché. Paris really is the most sophisticated place in the world, and Parisian women really are about 100 times more stylish than anyone else. In fact, I know this from personal experience. Two separate trips to Paris left me positively reeling from my lack of Parisian chic. It was a bit annoying, really.It wasn’t that every French girl wore Chanel shoes and Hermés bags. That’s a common misconception.In fact, I hardly saw those look-at-me labels during my frequent walks down the Seine. Instead, French women wore slim pants, silk scarves, solid-colored tops and leather ballet flats. And that’s it.Their style is the epitome of effortless chic, and it has had fashionphiles like me attempting to replicate it for years. Often unsuccessfully, I might add.The ultra-simple French sensibility leads us to believe these women are just born stylish, that their style is natural and innate. How unfair, right?Though this isn’t exactly true, it really does seem like the French don’t even have to try to look fabulous. It just happens.Coco Chanel once said, “Fashion passes, style remains,” and this immediately applies to French style — in fact, it might only apply to French style. French women never look overdone or dated; they’ve mastered the perfect blend of past and present.This idea makes “trends” seem slightly ridiculous. In 50 years, we’ll be wondering why we bought neon pants and crop tops, while French girls will have zero regrets about their cap-toe heels and tweed skirts.Some of my personal style icons are the women who truthfully created the classic, inimitable French style that will never be considered “out.” Brigitte Bardot is famous not just for her trendsetting hair but for her elegant shift dresses, cropped pants and little jackets, with no loud prints or accessories in sight.A more recent source of inspiration is Charlotte Gainsbourg (daughter of famous French musician Serge Gainsbourg). Charlotte embodies the classic French philosophy, but she successfully modernizes it. She isn’t afraid of a bold print or architectural heel, and she’ll wear boyish loafers with girly mini skirts, once again achieving a perfect balance.French model and actress Lou Doillon also takes French style to the next level. She repeatedly looks classic and unfussy, but her eye-catching ensembles often include a strong pop of color or interesting little detail. One of my favorite Doillon outfits includes a vintage brocade coat layered over a summery (and very modern) coral dress. Simple, unexpected and timeless — what could be better?As someone who loves a great stack of bracelets and mixing bold prints, the simplistic French style feels like shocking new territory for me. But on those days when I feel like I have no inspiration, though my closet is overflowing with options, French style is the perfect solution. Skinny jeans, a loose blouse, my favorite ballet flats and a dainty scarf don’t look at all boring. Instead, they’re perfectly minimal.Sometimes less really is more.— emfarra@indiana.edu
(02/24/12 2:59am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Just as quickly as it began, New York Fashion Week came to a startling close. While attendees took a collective sigh of relief and kicked off their backbreaking heels, eager bystanders like me continued to click through the Internet in a desperate search for more lust-worthy fashion. Luckily, London Fashion Week picked up right where New York left off and has more than satisfied my craving. Some of my favorite shows have taken place in London this week: Topshop Unique, Erdem, Burberry Prorsum, Mary Katrantzou and Meadham Kirchhoff, to name a few.But before I get lost in Katrantzou prints and Burberry cashmere, let’s look back at some of the very best shows this side of the Atlantic. Among the New York trendsetters were Jason Wu, Rodarte, Mulberry, Proenza Schouler, Jenni Kayne and Derek Lam — and they were nothing short of inspirational. Despite my dire efforts, I’m not about to buy any of those fabulous runway looks, but it’s more exciting to take inspiration from those runways and adapt them to your own wardrobe. Whether you’re shopping at H&M or J. Crew, fall’s best trends are completely within reach.One of the most prevalent fall trends worth replicating isn’t exactly a specific piece of clothing or concept: Instead, it’s a lone piece of fabric. The peplum (aka a little skirt-shaped ruffle or half-dome affixed to the waist of clothing) popped up on more runways than I could even fathom. The curve-enhancing detail is undeniably feminine and in line with this fall’s soft, unstructured vibe. Pair a peplum top with skinny pants to balance the volume, or wear a statement-making peplum dress with little more than a few sleek bracelets.Fall designers also embraced pants like never before. The most notable style is arguably the panel pant because of its supreme, figure-flattering potential and graphic, two-tone color scheme. Panel pants are loose, slim pants with thick, black panels down the outer and inner seams — great for lengthening and slimming the legs. Designers such as 3.1 Phillip Lim paired panel pants with structured blazers to up the menswear factor, but they look just as chic with slouchy knits and silk tanks.Or you could add a metallic leather T-shirt and kill two birds with one stone. Metallics were a big trend for fall (when aren’t they?), and designers played with a variety of new textures and shapes. From tough-girl leather to floaty silk and satin, the high-shine, alloy-inspired sheen of gold, bronze, silver and gunmetal is far from fading out. Alexandre Herchcovitz made an especially covetable gold, T-shirt-style leather dress I could literally live in. Simple shapes keep the trend from feeling too “Vegas.”In quite the opposite direction, cozy knits were another recurring trend. I know, I know, you invested in oversize cable knits and intarsia pullovers last fall, but take note of some key changes this season. Graphic elements such as giant logo letters (at Marc Jacobs) and borderline-corny landscape scenes (at Suno) add charm to classic sweaters. Proenza Schouler emphasized the waffle texture of his knits by splashing a bold, orange-and-black check pattern, while Derek Lam opted for a sleeveless cable knit paired with a chiffon maxi skirt. The options are endless for this cold-weather favorite.I may have saved my favorite “trend” for last. The military jacket is hardly new or trendy, but will it ever stop being so ridiculously chic? I desperately hope not. A good military jacket is the perfect topper for any outfit. I tend to wear mine with girly pieces, such as fluttery dresses and floral skirts. But this fall, designers such as Tommy Hilfiger took a different route and embraced the sleek, no-nonsense aspect of military jackets. Paired with matching green skirts, simple skinny pants and little leather caps, these wardrobe staples became masculine and a bit daring. Although I could expand upon tons of other trends (such as sheer overlays, winter white, Asian influences and the return of the pointed pump), I’m obligated to conclude with one of the most obvious fall trends: fur. I don’t mean those adorable little fur vests every girl seemed to invest in during winter break. Those are still fair game, but I’m talking full-on, excessive quantities of fur. Fur stoles, fur caplets, fur jackets, fur peplums (double trend), colorful fur, fur sleeves — let’s just say PETA wouldn’t be pleased. I am after a boxy, cream fur jacket, but jewel tones, such as deep turquoise, are also completely on-trend. I’ve been positively anxious for spring to arrive, but NYFW and LFW have me craving these gorgeous fall trends! Instead of getting frustrated with meteorology, I’m looking at it this way: We now have almost a year to plan our fall wardrobes accordingly. I suggest you start now.— emfarra@indiana.edu
(02/16/12 4:26am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>With New York Fashion Week in full swing, it’s time to take note of what we have in store for fall 2012. We’re only a few days in, but the inspiration is bursting at the seams — literally. From artful layering at Gary Graham to cozy knee-length knits at Yigal Azrouël, the fashion world has been in a fall frenzy. A very welcome frenzy, but a frenzy nonetheless. In today’s brief breakdown of the very best (so far), I’ll start with one of my favorite designers: Alice + Olivia. Far from “high fashion” or couture standards, Alice + Olivia always delivers collections that are both covetable and extremely wearable. This season was no different. Alice + Olivia always uses unexpected combinations, such as sequins with moto jackets or cargo pants with fur coats, and this collection speaks to that juxtaposed philosophy. It’s feminine yet sexy, strong yet subdued. Eye-catching patterns on emerald silk lent some necessary drama, but fur accents, dazzling sequins and Peter Pan collars maintained Alice + Olivia’s intrinsic femininity.On a different note, Theyskens’ Theory erred on the masculine side. The palette was nearly all black and gray, with a few dashes of muted mustard and burgundy for good measure. But the collection was far from dreary — fashion-philes will know that the Olivier Theyskens girl rarely steps out in blinding hues or clashing prints. Instead, leather jumpsuits, ombré corduroy pants and chiffon maxi skirts kept things fresh and interesting, while uncomplicated shapes tied everything together.Jenni Kayne offered a satisfying mixture of tweed, neon and classic prep — things that really shouldn’t work but miraculously do. Inspired by “a proper English gentleman’s hunting wardrobe,” the emphasis was on sleek, menswear-inspired shapes — with a twist. Short suits and wool overcoats felt just stodgy enough, and pops of fluorescent yellow, digitized plaids and feathered mini skirts added a dose of whimsy. Nothing feels too serious or too trendy, and every single piece can be mixed and matched to create countless ensembles. This isn’t a new development. Kayne has always placed a strong emphasis on her separates, and this season’s offerings go above and beyond. Perhaps the most recognizable name on this list is Marc Jacobs, and as usual, his collection does not disappoint. His fantastical, over-the-top line could make even the harshest critic fall in love with the very spirit of fashion all over again. Absurd furry hats, countless layers (upon layers, upon layers ... ), kaleidoscope prints, bedazzled pilgrim shoes and shimmering stripes are the result of Jacobs’ effort to combine old-timey Plymouth Rock with the artistic street style we’re all so fond of today. Though I can’t exactly see myself (or anyone) wearing the collection’s head-to-toe looks, I can’t help but love them. They’re a bit excessive, yes, but Jacobs’ goal was to capture the latest hell-if-I-care disregard toward fashion. Street style photographers such as Tommy Ton and Scott Schuman have been documenting this new phase for the past few years, but no designer has really used street style as inspiration until now. Women today are true fashion influencers. They aren’t focusing on looking flawlessly put together anymore. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. They’re after a unique, unexpected look that’s all their own. They’re mixing prints, piling on layers, wearing gigantic sunglasses and generally doing everything possible to be ironic. Only the strongest women can pull off these hodgepodge ensembles, and this hearkens back to the true function of fashion: It’s about expressing yourself, making a statement and standing out. Marc Jacobs has certainly reinforced that powerful idea. —emfarra@indiana.edu
(02/09/12 3:12am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>You are part of the iPad generation — so chances are, you’ve read fashion blogs. Some are world famous (i.e., The Man Repeller, Sea of Shoes and Style Rookie), while others might be the amateur work of your friend down the hall. But what’s the latest news in blogging? In an unlikely turn of events, bloggers are having their computer chairs pulled out from under them and are being thrown onto the runway. That’s right — during the upcoming New York Fashion Week, fashion website Polyvore will hold a fashion show featuring bloggers as the models. Famous women such as Julie Sarinana of Sincerely Jules and Aimee Song of Song of Style will strut their stuff in clothes they might well have inspired. You might recognize a few more of the 22 names on the list, including perhaps the most notable one: Amy Levin, IU alumna and creator of street-style blog CollegeFashionista.Levin started CollegeFashoinista in 2008 when she was still a student in Bloomington. The site has since become a worldwide powerhouse. CollegeFashionista is more than just a single blog. More than 200 campuses worldwide maintain their own sartorial pages on the CollegeFashionista website and publish daily posts about fashion and beauty trends. Just think: A few short years ago, Levin was in your shoes, sitting in her room, reading the Indiana Daily Student, and now she’s walking in New York Fashion Week. Talk about having a moment.The bloggers will walk in clothes designed by recent FIT graduates Dana-Maxx, Lauren Bagliore, Celestino and Gavaskar. I suggest you mark your calendars for 6 p.m. Monday — I personally can’t wait to see the show live-streamed from the Polyvore website.Thanks to the global reach of blogs, bloggers are single-handedly dominating today’s fashion scene. Designers look to bloggers for inspiration, collaborate with bloggers for new designs and even feature individual bloggers in national advertisements. This isn’t a fad. It isn’t a phenomenon. It’s simply the next step in our tech-heavy world. But why, exactly, are these bloggers so captivating? There are a few obvious factors: Blogs are free. They’re accessible all over the world. They rely heavily on photographs and, thus, cross all languages. They truly speak to the adage that fashion is universal.I’ve always been drawn to the passion behind blogging. Bloggers create content out of sheer joy — no one is paying them, and most certainly, no one is styling them.Bloggers are real-life women putting their uncompromised love for fashion on display, and wouldn’t you know it — they’re setting the trends season after season.Scrolling through thousands of blog photos has provided more inspiration than a professionally styled celebrity ever could. Bloggers don’t spend thousands of dollars on couture, and by witnessing their ability to shop within their means, including brilliant finds at college-girl favorites like Forever 21 and H&M, I’ve learned how to successfully manage my own wardrobe.— emfarra@indiana.edu
(02/02/12 3:58am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>This Sunday will be the highlight of my week. I’m already feeling the anticipation: huge crowds, cutthroat competition, intense strategizing and maybe some blood, sweat and tears, for good measure. Wait — you thought I was talking about the Super Bowl? Not quite... As the true antithesis of a sports fan, I can assure you there’s something far more fabulous in store for Feb. 5.Four words: Jason Wu for Target.The favorite designer of celebrities such as Natalie Portman, Diane Kruger and Michelle Obama (he designed her white inaugural ball gown), Jason Wu will debut a 53-piece line for Target this Sunday. A buzz-worthy launch on Super Bowl Sunday seems like a brilliant strategy to appeal to women while their football-obsessed boyfriends and husbands become rabid animals screaming at the TV. It’s already working — I’m planning on being first in the door at College Mall.If you’re still wondering who Jason Wu is, let me tell you: He is no small fry designer. Wu has gained worldwide fame for the unmatched elegance, beauty and sophistication of his designs. A diverse background — he was born in Taipei but has lived in Paris and Vancouver — has given Wu a global perspective that can’t be duplicated. From his sharply tailored pieces, such as blazers and high-waist shorts, to flowing, romantic skirts and dresses, it’s difficult to find a single flaw in his formula.Wu’s collection for Target is truly an extension of his high-end design aesthetic. Every piece is utterly charming, from circle skirts to prim blouses, and it’s clear Wu spearheaded the design process down to every last detail. Wu’s vision for Target was to create the wardrobe of “an American girl in Paris.” A theme that could quickly become cheesy, but of course, Wu executes it perfectly. Wu takes direct inspiration from Jean Seberg and French New Wave films, and that iconic French style — fresh, minimal and chic — is unmistakable.To me, the collection’s standout pieces are undoubtedly the dresses. Simple, feminine and oh-so French, you can almost imagine them jumping off their hangers and sauntering down the Seine. They’re flowy, figure-flattering and crafted in patterns and shapes that translate seamlessly from day to night — the key to budget shopping. Plus, simple silhouettes allow Wu to play with little details, which is his favorite part of the design process. Stripes, sheer panels, fluttery sleeves and delicate collars are unexpected and add a touch of humor to the collection. Basically, Wu nailed it. Not only is his collection a relief for anxious fans, but Wu will be sleeping easy, too. After Missoni for Target caused a global frenzy — i.e. fist fights and a website crash — earlier this fall, the pressure was on for Wu to really deliver. The Jason Wu for Target collection ranges from $19.99 to $59.99 and will only be available until March 6, so I advise you follow my lead and line up bright and early Sunday morning.— emfarra@indiana.edu
(01/26/12 2:51am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>It’s official: Winter has reached its peak of misery. We’ve narrowly escaped frostbite, watched our cars become ice cubes and endured the first ice storm. Honestly, what’s worse than the gut-wrenching fear of slipping to your death on ice-coated sidewalks? Not much. But one thing that comes close is the mind-numbing boredom we feel upon looking into our closets each morning. Yawn.This is the time when fashion falls to bone-chilling temperatures and the realization that spring semester consists of more than Little 500. You might feel down. Uninspired. Blue, even. In fact, you may feel the urge to blow your life savings in a feeble attempt to revive your “tired” winter wardrobe — but not so fast. Save your pennies for the upcoming spring season, which promises new trends far too amazing to pass up (think soft pastels, 1950s silhouettes, art deco and athletic-chic)Maintaining your style in the dead of winter means mixing your wardrobe like never before. There are just a few simple recipes to keep in mind:1) MIX PRINTS. Who knew the polka-dot blouse hanging in your closet would look so perfect with a leopard-print scarf? Clever combinations like these make you feel like you’re wearing a new ensemble.2) MIX TEXTURES. Try a pair of faux-leather pants with a chunky knit sweater, or a shimmery blouse with rugged distressed denim. Trés effortless. 3) MIX SEASONS. If you think your favorite sundress can only come out for spring break, think again. Throw on a pair of tights, boots and a tweed blazer and say hello to your new favorite outfit.4) MIX COLORS. Try wearing unusual color combinations, such as neon pink and camel, or pair contrasting hues: orange and blue, yellow and purple, violet and green.5) MIX METALS. Jewelry is the finishing touch to any ensemble, but it’s also the easiest way to enhance your everyday look. Wear equal parts gold and silver jewelry; once a major faux pas, this mix is a modern and chic update.— emfarra@indiana.edu
(01/19/12 4:33am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street; fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” — Coco ChanelAs cliché as this quote sounds, it puts into words the power of fashion. Fashion isn’t just about looking fabulous; it’s about feeling fabulous and being unique. Getting dressed in the morning might not be the highlight of your day, but you’d be pressed to find a girl who doesn’t stand straighter in her best dress or man who doesn’t confidently enter a room in his favorite suit. Fashion boosts confidence. It inspires, creates and shapes our culture.While fashion may not be “hard-hitting journalism,” it’s just as relevant to readers as front-page news. This is true at IU, where fashion thrives around every corner. Hoosiers have fun with fashion and make it their own, with an endless array of styles serving as personal inspiration every day. While I credit my fellow fashion-philes for influencing my sartorial choices, I also look to blogs for street-style inspiration.To keep track of these trends, I maintain my own fashion blog, Twin Studies, with my twin sister. From personal photos to shopping and beauty guides, Twin Studies is your source for the latest in college-ready fashion.
(12/09/10 4:36am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>When Kirkwood Avenue shopping sprees and dinners at Mother Bear’s Pizza leave students strapped for cash, Aroundcampus.com is ready to help.Around Campus is an online coupon site for college students that developed as a result of the creators’ own financial struggles when they were in college. It is currently at more than 300 universities nationwide and features a wide range of offers.Students can find discounts on haircuts, restaurants, self-storage, tanning, fitness centers, taxis and even used cars — all tailored to their specific university.Sophomore Betsy Sommers said she thinks Around Campus would benefit countless students experiencing tight budgets during the academic year. “I personally know it’s hard to be frugal during the school year,” she said. “Having an easy-access list of deals I can use would definitely help me keep my spending to a minimum.”Site Director Steve Balduino credits college students themselves as the company’s source for the deals they promote. “Students at each campus work with local businesses one-on-one to put together some of the best deals in town,” he said. “They look for what appeals to the campus community.”Obtaining the coupons is also geared toward students and their busy schedules. Coupons can be printed, sent via e-mail, text-messaged to a cell phone or even posted to Facebook.Coupons and discounts are frequently updated on the site to provide students with the most recent deals.
(11/09/10 4:45am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Dream Corps International added a student-run chapter to IU this summer. Dream Corps is a non-profit organization that sends volunteers to rural neighborhoods in China to improve the learning environment of disadvantaged children. It was founded in 2004, and for the past six summers students have taken books, built libraries, trained librarians and created reading programs for children who lack the supplies for a proper education.This educational inequality in China is Dream Corps’ main concern, and some members worry it is not a widely perceived problem in China or the rest of the world. “Some children don’t go to school at all because they’re too poor ... They don’t even have enough money for food,” said Xini Wang, IU chapter vice president of internal management. “Also, children have no family support because their parents go to the migrant cities to work.”As a result, neighborhoods mostly consist of children and the elderly.The IU Dream Corps chapter spends the entire school year preparing for summer volunteer programs. “Our main purposes (during the school year) are spreading awareness on the inequality in China and raising funds,” said Wei Sun, president of the IU chapter.Funding for the volunteer programs and materials are almost all acquired through donations and student efforts.Each summer Dream Corps sends 40 to 50 volunteers to several different neighborhoods in China, with four to eight people at each site. Hundreds of books are taken to the schools annually. Volunteers help librarians create the library systems and learn physical instruction techniques.Volunteers who travel with Dream Corps are typically college students, but it is not a requirement.“Volunteers have to apply and have an interview. We look for people with a lot of motivation and ask how they think the trip will influence their life,” said Wang, who went to China with the group in 2009. “Teamwork and long-term involvement are also important.”Before traveling to China, volunteers must undergo a month of online training and four days in a Beijing camp to prepare for their complete immersion in rural China. The volunteer groups work and live in their assigned neighborhoods in order to fully understand and experience the lives of the children. “It’s usually a culture shock, so we try to prepare them for interacting with the children and teachers,” Wang said.Technology implementation is the next step for Dream Corps. “Now we have hundreds of alumni from all over the world, and we’re able to get more technology into the neighborhoods,” Wang said.Dream Corps has also started creating technology blocks for Chinese teachers to use and communicate with.“We’re working towards long-term communication with the schools so we can stay in touch with students and teachers after we leave,” Wang said.