The Ryan Murphy Series "Hollywood," and its 1940s Costumes

Ryan Murphy's newest TV masterpiece is the Netflix show Hollywood. It centers around the TV and film industry in the 1940's, with aspiring actors and directors trying to make it big. It is almost a "what if" look at the industry, with fictionalized versions of well-known figures, like Rock Hudson.

Since the show is a period drama, the fashion and costumes were a big part of the series. Costume designers Lou Eyrich and Sarah Evelyn based the fashions on "golden age cinema". They used a color palette of golden browns, pinks, caramels, reds, greens, and purples. Evelyn and Eyrich call this palette "harvest tones". They also took references from famous 1940's icons and movies, like Woman Of The Year, Casablanca, The Red Shoes, The Killers, Gilda, and Gentleman's Agreement. "As we looked at the characters and made the tone board, we developed style icons for each of the characters", Evelyn says about their process. Evelyn and Eyrich also worked closely with the hair and makeup departments, to determine the looks. "If Ryan chose a specific hair color or wig", Evelyn said, "that would affect our work greatly".

Many of the costumes were custom made because, "1940s clothing is extremely difficult to find and generally very small", Evelyn explains. However, some of the pieces were bought from vendors who specialize in vintage clothing.

Several of the show's actors enjoyed their costumes, some even got attached to them. "We definitely had characters who got attached to their costumes and wanted to take stuff home", Evelyn says.

Report: Anna Bechtel

Return of the Tie Dye

During quarantine, most of us are stuck in our homes wondering what we can do to keep ourselves busy. Spending about 8 hours on TikTok is definitely one way to pass time, but many people have also been bringing out their creative sides. Painting, baking, home projects and having some fun with their wardrobe.

TikTok is famous for people creating fun dances, making viewers laugh, and also for spreading some fashion tips and tricks. There has been a recent trend that has surfaced with this latest social media platform. Tie dye tutorials have always been around, but it has become much more popular thanks to this app and more people giving it a try.

Did I mention how easy it is? All you need is any piece of clothing you are willing to spice up, rubber bands and of course, bleach. You can also buy liquid dye in various colors to create your own look. These tutorials are easy and fun and are always displayed with songs that are trending on the app. This helps lure viewers, likes and makes the whole experience fun for people to do.

If you're looking for more ways to be fun and creative, other than tie dye, TikTok is the best place to check out. One account called Style is one of the best sources to use for style and beauty. What is so neat about it is it shares average people like you and myself and their style tips, then tags and shares them on their page.

Overall, the tie dye fits have become very popular and it can be used as a fun way to keep busy or even just to spruce up old pieces of clothing you were thinking of getting rid of. You don't just have to bleach it, you can cut it and turn it into crop tops or incorporate cool designs. Have fun with it and make it your own!

Photo Credits: Pinterest

Report: Melissa Adragna

QUAY X LIZZO FOR GOOD

You're going to need a pair of sunnies to shade your eyes from the shine of Quay's new collection. The Australian sunglass company just dropped a new line in collaboration with, the only and only, Lizzo. With a spark and originality that only the artist herself could embody, the new shades will be the vibrant addition to your summer wardrobe that you’ve been craving.

The singer, songwriter and performer took the world by storm with her fun, empowering, resilient music and energy, and these qualities become tangible as they are integrated into the new designs. Featuring colorful yet sophisticated styles, the collection has superstar written all over it.

The Lizzo inspired line includes a variety of silhouettes such as aviators and cat eye, as well as sunglasses with metal brow bars and studded embellishments like mini stars and rhinestones. Some of the shades are also offered in a translucent rainbow finish. No matter what style you choose, every pair will help you shine a little bit brighter before you ever even hit the sun.

Probably the most significant reason why this new collection outshines that of its predecessors is the fact that proceeds from every purchase will be used towards donating meals all across the United States. In addition to teaming up with Lizzo, the Quay company has also partnered with Feeding America during this time of uncertainty. Each individual purchase is the equivalent of 100 meals that are distributed by local food banks.

Besides the obvious charm and enthusiasm of the new collection, the ability to contribute meaningful meals and provide a sense of security to fellow Americans is what makes this line one of our favorites of the season. You will undoubtedly add a spark to your style when wearing these fun and eccentric shades while simultaneously making a difference in the lives of people who need it most.

All photo credit can be attributed to the Quay website.

Report: Alexandra Donnelly

Good News Beauty Gurus...Sephora is Reopening!

Finally, some positive news! Beauty lovers it is now your time to shine because Sephora is officially opening up its stores! Let’s discuss the info that really matters…the who, the when, and the where!

First up: The Who. Sephora is officially beginning its reopening phases since they were forced to shut down in mid-March due to the coronavirus pandemic. It’s been a long 3 months for beauty gurus, and I’m happy to share that we’re starting to see some form of normalcy! As states begin to get their groove back, Sephora is working on it too!

Next Up: The When. 70 stores will be reopening as of Friday May 22, 2020. New and improved safety procedures are being instilled into every Sephora. The, “Sephora Health and Hygiene Guidelines”, include almost fifty safety procedures as well as proper training for its employees. It may not be the average Sephora you were so used to before, but just remember, your safety is their highest priority! Line coordinators will be on guard, no testers allowed, social distance required, and a customer capacity will all be put into place for re-openings.

Lastly: The Where. States that are included in the first stage of reopening include: Colorado, Indiana, Idaho, Mississippi, Kansas, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Georgia, Alaska, Arkansas, and Alabama. Don’t see your state? This is only the first step in reopening, so more states are sure to pop up in the future.

Sephora is keeping up with the daily heath procedures to ensure every persons safety. Deep cleaning throughout the store will take place every day. All customers and employees are required to wear face masks, and their employees will even have their temperature tested during their shifts. Hopefully I’ll be sharing more info on even more store openings soon!

Photo Credits:

https://community.sephora.com/t5/Customer-Support/As-we-start-to-reopen-some-stores-we-want-to-share-what-we-re/td-p/5369029

Report: Kaitlin Gallagher

Insecure Where? These Looks Exude Confidence!

Though titled Insecure, the looks that the ladies on this show have been serving this season are far from that! Costume designer Shiona Turini, who also designed the clothing elements on Queen and Slim for which she was nominated for the Costume Designers Guild Award for Excellence in Costume Design for a Contemporary Film, is the fashion mastermind behind it all. What I admire most about Turini is that she purposefully seeks out Black designers and brands for Insecure. Doing this is not only important because it gives black designers a platform, but it also connects viewers with the characters as informed young individuals who understand the importance of supporting black-owned businesses. Here are just a few of my favorite looks from this season of Insecure.

First are the Cancun Vegan Leather Blazer and Wrap Skirt by Nanushka that Issa wore to the mixer she threw to promote her upcoming block party. I love this look because it gives me boss vibes which is exactly what Issa is radiating throughout this season. She is all about the success of her block party and has proven to be a hard worker.

My next favorite is the Diverge Drape Dress by Dion Lee that Molly was wearing on her date with Asian-bae Andrew. In my opinion, this dress is so fitting for Molly’s character whose high fashion sense matches her high expectations. Another favorite of mine was the cardigan dress Condola wore by Alessandra Rich. This dress looked so elegant especially with the details on the buttons and reminded me of something I’d see on Coco Chanel.

Another Molly look that I loved was the Asymmetric Deconstructed Blazer by Monse that she wore on the Thanksgiving episode. This top is just so bold and unique from anything I have ever seen, and for Molly to wear it on Thanksgiving there’s no doubt that she is the Beyoncé of her family.

Last but certainly not least, is the light blue pleated dress that Tiffany wore to Issa’s mixer, which happens to be from one of my personal favorite brands, Pyer Moss. The way this dress flows and the color really highlighted how beautiful maternity is and looks on Tiffany. I could probably go on forever about the stylish ladies of Insecure and how Shiona Turini never misses but you guys should just see for yourselves! Tune in with me on HBO Sundays at 10 pm EST.

Photo credit: @Insecurehbo

Report: Corine Gauthier

The Music I Can’t Stop Listening To

Rema Photo Credit: Medium

Nigerian rapper and singer, Divine Ikubor (Rema), recently released a song entitled “Beamer (Bad Boys). This song channels a lighter, more R&B-infused vibe similar to that of Mr. Eazi, Maleek Berry and a few other Afrobeats artists. Featured on this track is international singer, Becky G. I literally can’t stop listening to it!

Future Photo Credit: Sneaker Report

Future’s new album, “High Off Life” is what gen z would describe as “a whole mood.” Despite the Quarantine we’re all experiencing as a result of COVID-19, this album has plenty of songs that feature the artists we love hearing on the radio during summer; Lil Uzi Vert, Lil Baby and Drake to name a few.

Sumney Photo Credit: Genius

Alternative artist Moses Sumney released “grae,” an album consisting of a series of short songs that lean more into his alternative sound than R&B. More importantly, he managed to get Jill Scott to feature on a song and sampled her song, “Cross My Mind.” This is the music I listen to when I’m just wanting to relax with my beverage of choice, likely on a Saturday evening.

Polo G Photo Credit: Hot New Hip Hop

Polo G is a rapper that I recently discovered and whose music I absolutely love. In his recent album, “The Goat,” the artist manages to merge both meaningful, heartfelt songs with the lighthearted summer bops we all want to blast in the car after leaving a day party. Whenever I want a boost, this album is my go-to.

Report: Julian Alexander Randall

Fashion and Stocks: Everything To Know Before Investing

As investors plan their next move when it comes to either buying or selling their stocks, the thought of buying a share towards a fashion company is often not considered. For those not familiar with the stock market, it is indexes of investments towards sharing ownership in a company. Technology companies and big brands such as Amazon, Tesla, Apple, Paypal, Shopify and more are all what these investors normally strive towards. But what about the fashion market and the constant growing of consumers everyday who rely on these companies? Some of the most successful fashion brands such as LuLuLemon is not only an expensive stock but it is at the top of the list for several fashion stocks. Ranging from yoga, loungewear, lifestyle and fitness, this stock has continued to grow to about 90% since last year. Another strong stock in this industry is Nike. Being such a popular and valuable apparel company, there is no doubt that they continue to sky-rocket every year when it comes to sales and revenue. Despite not being a cheap stock being priced at almost $100, it is inevitable that even the highest priced stocks will continue to dip in the midst of the pandemic.

Even luxury brands such as Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior and more continue to remain steady in their sales and profit. The most important question regarding all of these brands is, are fashion stocks worth the price? It can be a risky investment due to the fact that a lot of people have been switching their shopping habits from fast fashion to more sustainable and ethical ways. It is okay to invest in a brand you know a lot about and consistently shop at but you need to be aware of the risks that you are taking when doing so. Some of the essential tips you should know is doing deep research on the brand itself. Look at their quality, how much people shop there, how much they make, gross margin, sales data, growth rates, earnings, and their competition.

If you invest into a fashion brand but then there is a competitor that can slide your stock off the market, then it will affect how much you’ve put into the stock. Once figuring out the research of the brand and their success, it is based on personal judgement whether you should make this investment or find another company.

Photo Sources: capital.com, currency.com, ig.com

Report: Pamela Valdez

High Off Life

Future’s highly anticipated album is finally here. The Haitian-American rapper recently released his latest project titled “High Off Life” and it has caused quite the buzz on social media. This is his first project following the hit 2019 album “The Wizrd”. The songs have had all the men feeling as though they can relate the hit rapper. This is Future’s seventh No. 1 Album. High Off Life was at No. 1 on the most recent Billboard 200 chart. It earned 153,000 equivalent album units for its debut week which ran until May 21 which was mostly streamed and the rest purchased.

Future is known as one of the most influential artists of the past decade and he’s managed to conquer the charts by emulating a sound that has reshaped rap as a whole. Ever since he peaked with DS2, he has continued to release music steadily. Although Future spent the first half of the 2010s changing his sound and experimenting, this new album emulates the signature sound that all major Future fans were waiting on. The entire album centers around men evoking confidence in life and not necessarily focusing on women, but rather themselves. A lot of women think that his lyricism may give the idea that women are disposable in his opinion but that is up for discussion.

The Atlanta rapper has been under some fire on social media due to his personal family drama, but what makes this album so iconic is that despite all that, he claims “Life is Good” which is one of the top songs on the album featuring Drake. The album is for sure an album for the summer and has so many hits that will make you feel like nothing else can bother you because life is going great. Future will continuously be an iconic rapper for all those who listen.

Photo Credits:

Album cover: @future

Colored picture: @future

Report: Soila M Douce

Opening Ceremony's Announcement

The fashion industry has been struggling for a long time, specifically their retail stores. With online shopping getting more and more popular, and people finding it way easier to use, retail stores have started to close. The COVID-19 crisis and lockdowns have already forced most businesses and retail stores to close. However, this might not be a temporary thing. Several high end and well-known brands, like Neiman Marcus and Forever 21, have already closed locations, citing financial issues. Last week, Opening Ceremony, an American clothing brand founded by Carol Lim and Humberto Leon, announced it would be shutting all of its locations down permanently. Lim and Leon announced this development on their Instagram. "We were going to set up a karaoke machine and ask you to sing a song with us. Make you a drink and give you some snacks. We were going to work in the stores for our last month so that we could thank you and hang out the way we did in 2002 when we first opened,” they wrote. “But while that is not in the cards, the feelings of gratefulness and love are still there.”

In January, Opening Ceremony announced that it would be selling a majority of its stake to the New Guards Group. Later, they announced that they would be transitioning away from retail by closing locations. Lim and Leon stated that Opening Ceremony would now be focusing on in-house collections of ready-to-wear clothing and accessories. Opening Ceremony's online stores will continue to operate into June. Their official re-launch is scheduled for later this year. However, Opening Ceremony will continue to "tie fashion obsessions to culture at large," which has been their goal from the beginning.

Report: Anna Bechtel

Savage x Fenty Teams up with Megan Thee Stallion for Their 2020 Campaign

Rihanna’s lingerie line, Savage X Fenty, has announced Megan Thee Stallion as their 2020 brand partner. The collaboration deemed #SavageXTheestallion, is part of the brand’s community-led summer campaign where brand partners, ambassadors and influencers take photos from inside their homes. The brand is teaming with mixed media artist Rafatoon to put together the campaigns.

The “Savage” and “Hot Girl” singer was given this opportunity with Savage X Fenty after she helped launch TikTok’s account in April with the #SavageChallenge. From the app, she was seen modeling the brand’s lingerie while dancing along to her hit song, Savage. The challenge has become viral and has nearly 800 million views.

When interviewed about the collaboration, Rihanna said “Meg is the energy we were looking for. She is a risk-taker with an attitude, character and personality.”

In the first campaign shots, Megan is seen wearing a yellow lace bra, paired with a matching thong. Another shot shows Megan on top of a leather chair featuring the same lingerie that she wore from the original #SavageChallenge video.

The collaboration will feature fits of all available sizes, from 32A-42H and XS on www.savageX.com, Amazon.com, ASOS.com and Zalando.com and is nothing short of classy, bougie and ratchet.

Report: Woo Jong Kim

Different Decade, Different Look: 25 Years of Oprah

On May 25, 2011 our favorite talk show came to an end. The Oprah Winfrey Show is iconic in daytime tv history. This long running talk show ran through multiple decades, and as the decades changed so did Oprah’s style. She was able to keep her looks fresh and new from the fist show which aired in 1986 to the last show which aired this week nine years ago. Let’s take a look at Oprah in each decade.

On the very first Oprah Winfrey Show, she wore a red oversized suit and the notorious hairstyle of the 80’s. The large clip earrings that she’s weaning is considered vintage now but in the 80's that was the go to for any business woman.

Oprah is a total transformation since the 80’s. This simple black turtleneck and jeans look could work now but for the 90’s she was right on parr. Her big buckled belt and shorter teased hair just screams 90’s.

In the 2000’s it was in style to wear bright colors and in 2003, Oprah wore a tailored bright red suit with a matching bright red pump. Her simple, brushed back, sleek hair and bright suit was a really popular look in the early 2000’s as we see in multiple movies from those times.

The show ended in the beginning of her fourth decade as a talk show host. They had come a long way but on her very last show she kept it simple and classy with a little detail in this knee length baby pink dress. The 2010’s was all about keeping it classy and that's exactly what Oprah did for her last episode. Her hair is long straight and beautifully positioned as she waves goodbye to the most iconic talks show ever.

Report: Alycia Williams

The Summer of Virtual Fashion Weeks

This summer, Europe’s most prestigious fashion events will be joining the rest of the industry’s temporary relocation to online platforms. Paris, Milan, and London Fashion Weeks have each announced the different ways in which they will be transporting their awe-inspiring shows to digital media. Interestingly enough, the sudden and mandatory switch to online spaces has actually compelled each Fashion Week to present their collections more creatively.

Going digital for the first time, London Fashion Week aims to be inclusive of both industry professionals and everyday fashion enthusiasts by making their shows accessible worldwide. As a result, this will also be the first London Fashion Week that merges womenswear and menswear, creating a gender-neutral showcase that will be less wasteful than those of previous years.

Following London Fashion Week is Milan Digital Fashion Week, which will be available through the National Chamber of Italian Fashion’s website cameramoda.it, as well as their many social media accounts. To further immerse viewers in the Fashion Week experience, there will be additional online features, including masterclasses and webinars led by industry experts. Remaining mindful of the pandemic, Milan Digital Fashion Week is an extension of the “China, We Are You With You” initiative, which began in February as a means of remotely keeping Chinese citizens who were unable to travel to this year’s event updated on its affairs.

Lastly, Paris Fashion Week will debut its new video format on July 9 through July 13. This Fashion Week is more traditional than the previous two, however, as the focus is more on the adherence to industry conventions and the display of collections rather than any digital innovations. Nonetheless, even this devotion to Fashion Week customs has the potential to elicit creative ideas for making audiences feel as though they are attending the grand event in person. Paris Fashion Week has yet to confirm its schedule or featured brands, but the fashion capital of the world will never fail to dazzle audiences during its most significant week, regardless of venue or format.

Report: Nia Hunt

JCPenney Files for Chapter 11

As America’s economy has continued to drop over the past 2 months due to the global pandemic, the future of our country is anything but clear. The governments decision to halt economic growth in order to save the lives of our country is a tough decision to understand, but also to make. With the amount of time passing where stores remain closed, we can foresee many businesses filing for bankruptcy.

JCPenney has officially filed for Chapter 11 as of Friday May 15 in order to bring down their astronomical amount of debt and restructure financially. Of course, filing for any form of bankruptcy seriously discredits a business, but if JCPenney wants to continue opening its doors, this was the only way to help it.

JCPenney’s plan of action includes a restructuring support agreement (RSA) that the court will continue to oversee between lenders who hold about 70% of JCPenney’s lien debt. Terms and agreements have been pre-arranged to allow a sense of relief during this process. As the debt is payed off, the financial restructuring will occur within the organization to ensure this never happens again. Even with a smart new plan, some stores are still expected to close for good.

JCPenney continues to support its customers throughout this time, and with new states opening every week, its stores will open when the timing is safe. JCPenney has been a major department store for years and has been shown a tremendous amount of support from its employees, customers, and vendors. JCPenney is doing everything they can to protect its loyal workers, and will continue to provide relief for its customers during these unprecedented times.

JCPenney is not the only nationwide department store to file for bankruptcy as Neiman Marcus has also filed for Chapter 11 in the recent weeks. The two department stores offer brands to different levels of cliental, but have both built a solid plan for future endeavors.

If you are a supporter of either of these two businesses, please consider supporting them throughout this crisis.

Photo Credits:

https://www.dailywire.com/news/jcpenney-files-for-chapter-11-bankruptcy

https://abc11.com/jc-penney-has-filed-for-chapter-11-bankruptcy-protection-a-report-said-friday/6186759/

Report: Kaitlin Gallagher

112 Verzuz Jagged Edge

We have received countless Verzuz battles, from Erykah Badu vs Jill Scott to Teddy Riley vs Baby Face. Little did fans know that we’d get a new one. Just a few days ago, Swizz Beats and Timbaland teased fans on Instagram Live with the idea of having two famous R&B/Hip Hop groups come head to head. Which two groups you ask? Music lovers have all been waiting for is set to happen as 112 versus Jagged Edge has been confirmed to battle on Memorial Day at 8pm EST. Fans are excited and debate as to which group has what it takes to win.The 90’s era has always been a feel good vibe, so why not have it on Memorial day?

As you know, Jermaine Dupri signed Jagged Edge to So So Def Records in the late 90’s. Some hits include, “Where The Party At?,” “Let’s Get Married,” “Promise,” and much more. 112 was discovered by Diddy who was then signed by his label, Bad Boy Records. They produced hits such as “Cupid,” “Peaches & Cream,” “Dance with me,” and much more; there’s no telling who will win in this epic battle. Although 112 is no longer a group, some fans are worried if they would all attend the Verzuz battle. It was then confirmed by Daron (former member of 112), that he and Q will not participate due to a legal issue. Could this affect 112 negatively? Guess we have to wait to find out! So pull out your dancing shoes and popcorn because it’s on ladies and gentlemen!

Due to COVID-19, we are all focused on finding various forms of entertainment. Whether it be Quarantine Radio hosted by Tory Lanez, Live-streamed concerts or Verzuz created by Swizz Beats and Timbaland. This battle is a great way to keep fans on their feet and have a great time while practicing social distancing.

Are you tuning in? Make sure to watch on Instagram live @theofficial112 or @official_je.  

Photo Credits:Instagram: Verzuztv

Report: Jessica Tamay

Music At What Cost

In the past year, Summer Walker quickly rose to fame like many other musicians at a young age. As a woman, the music industry can use and abuse then throw you away if you’re not the total package. It’s not enough to just have the voice of an angle anymore, not since sex started to sell.

Many talented female artists such as Lil Kim, K Michelle, and Nicki Minaj have undergone extremely dangerous plastic surgery to their body to appeal to the music industry and its fans. Today, artists are speaking out and freely about their toxic journey in the industry that has led them to their addictions to be accepted and promises to be made a star and make it to the top. Industry professionals have brainwashed women to thinking unless they channel their creativity through drugs or make millions showing their assets, then they had no career.

The most recent is Summer Walker. She’s previously spoken out about how she’s dealt with her newfound fame and constantly being in the spotlight. On her last tour, after dealing with the performance part of her fame Summer only performed at nine of the tour dates canceling the original 29. She then took to Instagram to explain what she was feeling to her fans, “I’m not going to be able to finish this tour because it doesn’t really coexist with my social anxiety and introverted personality.”

Summer Walker - Before

“I’m a person; I have feelings. I get tired, I get sad and it’s just a lot.” She added, “I want to give you all what I can, so I’m going to keep making music and I might do a few more shows, but I can’t finish.” “I hope that you understand that wellness/health is important.”

Following this courageous act, Summer Walker decided to take a break from social media after receiving backlash on multiple occasions following her canceled tour and her public breakup with London on Da Track On May 16, it seems she is a new woman. Summer Walker is practically unrecognizable in her newest Instagram video and photos showing off what looks like a new face and body. It makes you wonder, what led her to this new transformation with a noticeably new bigger butt. Is she the newest victim of mental abuse from the industry and social media?

Is she the new Lil Kim? Why is it that the music industry teaches young black women that unless they have curves they’re talent means nothing? It is an industry that makes hit records and millions of dollars on a regular basis and young black women and their mental health pay the price.

Report: Josephine Coiscou

"The History of the Seattle Mariners" Concludes with King Felix

Felix Hernandez was the primary subject in the final episode of “The History of the Seattle Mariners,” a YouTube series which chronicles the story of “the most fascinating team on Earth.” The series was created by Jon Bois and Alex Rubenstein as part of the Dorktown segments on SB Nation’s YouTube channel.

Bois and Rubenstein continue the method of analyzing old news articles to tell obscure stories and using visualized data to emphasize certain statistics. It not only is a creative method that ensures the accuracy of their research, it also makes their videos appealing to anyone, not just sports fans. This series is no different, as even non-baseball fans will be entertained by stories of old stadiums being burned down, toilets being filled with jello and a community deciding the fate of a team just as it is giving its fans something to root for.

The series of course also focuses on the immensely talented players that have worn the Mariners cap, with Hernandez, the most recent star of the team, being the focus as the series concludes. Hernandez was a local celebrity in the Seattle area when he was pitching at his peak. However, playing on the west coast and never having an opportunity to pitch in the playoffs, which is no fault of his own, never allowed for him to reach nationwide celebrity status. But despite his declining skills, Seattle fans gave him a standing ovation when he pitched his final game last season. Everyone in the ballpark, including Hernandez himself, was aware that he would not be returning to the team next season. Hernandez was last pitching for the Atlanta Braves in spring training before the COVID-19 pandemic postponed the season.

The series is highly recommended for both sports and non-sports fans alike, but especially for sports fans who are pining for some content with no live sports to keep them entertained. The entire six-episode series is around three hours and 40 minutes in total and can be watched for free on SB Nation’s YouTube channel.

Photos courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

Report: Michael Rosen

Chanel Boosts Prices on Some Handbags, Small Leather Goods

Chanel has raised prices worldwide on a few of its products to counterbalance the increased cost of raw materials amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The French fashion house told Reuters that price hikes apply to some handbags and small leather goods, with the increases varying between 5 to 17 percent in euros. Chanel told the news agency, “The price adjustments only regard Chanel's iconic handbags, 11.12 and 2.55, as well as Boy, Gabrielle, Chanel 19 bags and certain small leather goods,”

Chanel named the legendary 2.55 handbag after the month and year that it was originally released, with 2.55 standing for February 1955. Creative director Karl Lagerfield’s modernized version of the 2.55 bag was the 11.12. Other luxury brands have seen price surges as well, including Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co. While Louis Vuitton Korea has raised prices by 5 to 10 percent on some items, Tiffany’s has hiked prices up to 11 percent for limited merchandise in South Korea. Bulgari has also increased its prices.

While brands blame increased prices on company pricing policy, exchange rate fluctuations, and raw material costs, some believe that these companies are purposefully raising prices so that certain customers will make extravagant purchases after being forced to social distance and remain inside.

Report: Amanda T. Lou

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Keeping up with Quarantine Trends

As we are in the middle of a pandemic, how does one still dress "trendy?" It's tricky since everyone is stuck at home for the time being. However, even with quarantine going on, people are still finding ways to keep up with different fashion trends. Here's a couple for you so that you can keep in the loop!

One popular one that I've noticed is quite obvious. I've been shopping for nothing but comfort wear since being home. Doesn't everyone want to relax in their pajamas all day? I know since I have a bunch of zoom calls and facetime with friends that I still want to look cute. Matching sets with oversized sweatshirts and sweatpants are so in and incredibly cozy. What makes them even trendier is that people have started a bunch of DIYs and tie-dying or bleaching. It is all over my Instagram and TikTok feed. If you're looking to buy some, I'd recommend Etsy where you can support small businesses.

Another trend fits this period perfectly and that's face masks. I've seen people in supermarkets and walking on the streets wearing not just plain boring ones. I saw one girl wearing a cheetah print mask and another wearing one with bright colors on it. These fun masks make wearing them a lot easier for some people. It allows you to be safe while still being fashionable. People are making them themselves or ordering them online.

Where could you get some cute ones? Kim Kardashian has a fashion line of undergarments called SKIMS, where she has now included a collection of non-medical face masks. It comes in 5 different skin tone colors of Sand, Clay, Sienna, Cocoa, and Onyx. They are all one size fits all. SKIMS is additionally donating 10,000 Seamless Face Masks to charities. The masks became so popular that they sold out in less than 30 minutes! They will be more coming soon if you're interested!

*Photo Credits to @SKIMS Instagram account*

Report: Anna Levitus

Fashion Podcast to Listen to While Quarantine

We’re officially entering double digits of weeks spent social distancing and while we’ve somewhat adjusted to life at home, it’s very easy to find yourself uninspired during this time. Whether in the fashion industry or an admirer, we understand it’s crucial to have inspiration and use this time wisely to build a business or knowledge. Podcasts allow you to dive into different stories and discussions gaining insight and ideas to fuel yourself. If you don’t know where to start, check out our list of fashion podcasts to listen to while quarantined.

Business of Fashion Podcast

If you’re not privy to the Business of Fashion and the journalistic aspect they bring to the fashion industry, this company produces news, analysis, entrepreneurial expertise, and overall global information about the fashion industry. If you’re looking for unique conversations about the fashion industry to start your day, their podcast covers an array of topics from fashion houses to retail to small businesses.

Dressed: The History of Fashion

Looking to expand your knowledge of the fashion industry? Why not go back to basics and the beginning with Dressed: The History of Fashion. In this podcast, hosts not only cover social and cultural histories in fashion in the past but also in the future.

The Future of Fashion Business

If you’re a designer needing inspiration to start your day from successful creative directors and those in the fashion industry, The Future of Fashion Business features inspiring entrepreneurs giving business and brand advice. Brands featured on this podcast include LVMH, Urban Outfitters, Tommy Hilfiger, and Banana Republic.

Fashion History with American Duchess

Another podcast to check out featuring the history of fashion is Fashion History with American Duchess, discussing a wide variety of clothing pieces like bustles, shoemaking, African head wraps, and overall dressing. As fashion enthusiasts, it’s important to not only evaluate and study the current trends but past styles that have influenced us.

Vogue Style Revolution

As many publications have come out with podcasts to subscribe to, Vogue’s Vogue Style Revolution, although dated, features exclusive interviews with well-known names in the fashion industry with timeless inspiration. Episodes feature the iconic September Issue, how to become an it-girl in the modeling industry, and exclusive interviews with top fashion houses.

Photo credits: Instagram

Report: Necole Jackson

Pyer Moss to Hold Drive-in Premieres for New Film ‘American, Also’

Kerby Jean-Raymond has been transparent about his process. He has been vocal about what he wants to do and when he wants to do it. He told WWD at the CEO Summit last October that he will have a show when he has something to say.

The founder and designer of New York City-based fashion brand Pyer Moss will hold drive-in premieres for his film, “American, Also”, following social distancing and lockdown requirements. More details on the event and locations will be revealed this summer.

The film, which has been two years in the making, follows Jean-Raymond and his team, partners and collaborators producing the Pyer Moss runway show in September 2019 at Kings Theatre in Flatbush, Brooklyn. The show was significant for its location — Jean-Raymond’s home neighborhood — as well as its venue, which has been said to be unsuitable for black people. The trailer begins with a clip of Matt Lauer saying neighborhoods are still segregated and that when black people move to affluent neighborhoods, “The result is ‘white flight.’”

What follows is a behind-the-scenes look at the show’s production with models in hair and makeup, the band rehearsing and voiceovers from Jean-Raymond. He recalled a conversation with an editor in the trailer, who said, ‘You know, I’m not coming to any more of your shows. They’re just so negative.’ And I was like, ‘You can’t see that this is for us? This is for us to see us.’”

The film explores what went into the show’s production, which serves as a backdrop to the greater discussion of the black experience in America. Jean-Raymond said, “It’s always been our mission to show the amount of thinking and laboring that goes behind putting together a collection — we’ve been slowing down the speed of how much we produce and improving the quality of what we produce throughout the years. This film aims to show the love and care our entire company puts into every single moment we create and will show that we appreciate fashion as an art form and communication tool.”

The series itself highlights black people In American culture, the first of which centered around the cowboy, initially a derogatory word used for black people who herded cattle that debuted at Spring Studios in February 2018. The next, an ode to the black family, debuted in September 2018 at Weeksville Heritage Center in Brooklyn, one of the United States’ first free black communities.

The third installment, at Kings Theatre, is about Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the matriarch and pioneer of rock ‘n’ roll music. Jean-Raymond is premiering “American, Also” during the lockdown as a way to bring the community and New York City together, and also to engage with his fans. It will also be available to the public.

Report: Amanda T. Lou

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