The Newest Trend for This Year? Crochet Sneakers.

The newest trend for this summer? Crochet sneakers. Fuggit, created by Rich Riley, is a brand of handmade sneaker-slippers that mimic your favorite types of shoes, such as Air Jordan or Yeezy. All of their shoes are lined with Sherpa and soles similar to Birkenstock for maximum comfort.

The brand’s name idea was born out of a moment of loss, after a friend of Riley’s was killed in a drug-related incident in 2013. During this time, Riley was thinking that his friend lived his life with a lot of energy and his whole vibe was ‘fuck it’, hence the name Fuggit. Riley, along with a team of eight craftsmen, worked their crochet skills to create this unique sneaker concept.

The label addresses issues beyond fashion right from the beginning. “I always have been into researching consumerism and material violence and sneaker violence,” Riley says. “That was one thing that always bothered me, because being in that community of sneakerheads, and going to sneaker cons, it was never addressed.”

The label has attracted many high-profile and stylish fans, including Erykah Badu. “She definitely represents the way we want to go with the look and vibe, that intersection of hip hop and social issues. It’s a look that is not so opulent and shiny, which makes it more wholesome. It has quality, love, and texture,” says Riley.

His ultimate goal? To produce products that can promote arts and education and create peace in communities.

Report: Woo Jong Kim

Prabal Gurung is the Fashion Designer We Need During These Times

Today, influential people are held to a higher standard of how to respond to crises. The money and power they possess are crucial in turning the tide in fighting for justice. Some called to action include fashion designers, who now have to adjust not only to the ongoing pandemic, but to recent racist incidents shedding light on the fashion industry. A designer contributing to the cause is Prabal Gurung, who for years has actively included diversity and pushed for more Asian representation in fashion.

Recently on Instagram, Gurung detailed how his brand “posted, donated, signed petitions, marched in protests, spoken on panels, and shared important resources.” In light of George Floyd’s murder and the uprising of the Black Lives Matter, it was announced June 3 that the brand’s former collection, “Stronger in Colour,” will be getting a revival. With options including a t-shirt for $95 and a hoodie for $175, it was revealed that 100% of the proceeds from the collection would be given to The Bail Project, a non-profit dedicated to fighting the disproportional rates of Black people being mass incarcerated. In addition, Gurung contributed to the “Define American’s Black + Gold Forum” that focused on the relationship between the Black and Asian community. Sometime during the pandemic, he and The COVID Foundation donated 2,000 N95 respirator masks to the health industry. Gurung took into account that the masks were delivered to the Brooklyn Hospital, Elmhurst Hospital, and Metropolitan Hospital Center, as they were in areas of marginalized communities affected the most. Continuing his efforts, Gurung has also given to the new collective, All Americans, designed to help out underserved communities affected by the Coronavirus.

Singapore-born and Nepalese-raised, Gurung has admitted that he was not as educated to the ongoing racism experienced by the Black community. It wasn’t until he moved to America that he was exposed to a racist system that negatively impacted people of color. In response his brand, conceived in 2009, has and continues to fight for equal representation into the fashion industry. Gurung’s runway shows gained attention over the years due in part to the casting, as it’s considered one of the most diverse ranges to ever appear on a runway. He received further praise when he employed an all-Asian cast for a “Stronger in Colour” campaign. Pivotal in breaking down Asian stereotypes, he also drew inspiration from key female figures of Asian history. These included the Gulabi Gang, Indian female vigilantes against violence, and even the very own Nepalese women during his upbringing.

As more brands adjust to a more sustainable and activist platform, Gurung believes now is a time in which everyone should look into their ethics and see what is not working. A crucial part to New York City, he is actively figuring out how to evolve the fashion industry into a more conscious, social-driven cause.

Photo Credit: Town and Country Magazine, The Zoe Report, Fashionista.

Report: Charlene Piccio

Forever21 Filed for Bankruptcy Last September. What's next for this Fast-Fashion Empire?

When fast-fashion retailer Forever21 filed for bankruptcy 9 months ago and then, like many other retailers, suffered financially as a result of COVID-19 closures, many wondered if this would be the end of the trendy, low-priced clothing store popular young people. However, one of Forever21’s new owners, Authentic Brands Group, has announced other plans.

According to AdWeek, Authentic Brands has partnered IB Group with plans to expand Forever21 into Mexico, and later Central America, South America, the Caribbean, and even the Philippines. With this design, 37 new stores will be opening across Mexico. Forever21’s new owners Authentic Brands, Simon Property, and Brookfield Property also plan to launch new lines of various accessories including jewelry, shoes, and handbags. They say they hope to launch fresh new marketing campaigns and collaborate with influencers in order to gain back their young customers they've lost in recent years.

Leading up to its filing for bankruptcy, Forever21 faced challenges from rising online competitors such as BooHoo, Fashion Nova, ASOS, and H&M. In its prime, the retailer stayed on top of trends almost as soon as they emerged, however, in recent years Forever21 has become more of the butt of the joke in terms of style, trendiness, and quality. Additionally, they have been hit with 50 copyright lawsuits in the past decade as a result of efforts to mimic success from other brands such as Gucci and even Ariana Grande. It goes to show that while the retailer experienced impressive and speedy growth, this culminated in an equally speedy demise. However, many loyal customers remain globally, and they will be looking forward to see what the future holds for this re-branded, newly-owned Forever21.

Forever21 was sold to Authentic Brands, Simon Property, and Brookfield Property for a whopping $81 million back in February. Authentic Brands Group is somewhat known for buying out stores in bankruptcy. They also own other notable retailers such as Barney’s, Juicy Couture, Aéropostale, and Nine West.

Report: Grace Carlos

Ariana Grande and the Issue of Fetishized Racial Ambiguity

When I was in high school, a beauty industry insider told me that I should consider becoming a model because I'm “ethnically ambiguous”. I have never been a stranger to comments like this; most people either try to guess what country my parents are from or decide to directly ask me out of their own intense curiosity. I have been labeled as Latinx. I have been assumed to be from the Mediterranean. I have been met with shock when I offer up my Asian roots on a platter of explanations. More times than not, I have been asked "are you sure you're Asian?"

The memory of this encounter resurfaced for me when a friend turned to me and stated, “wait, I thought Ariana Grande was Latinx”. I refuted, explaining that the pop star is an Italian-American white woman with a penchant for appropriating black culture. My friend turned to their brother to ask if he knew she was white, only for him to exclaim surprise as well.

Alongside the memory, I also felt an old bubble of bitterness arise in me. What had struck me most about my exchange with that woman was the blatant fetishization of my skin for media consumption. When I had asked the woman what she meant by “ethnically ambiguous”, she explained to me that I was marketable because I appeared as everything and yet nothing at the same time. In her eyes, my skin was malleable at the hands of the masses; I was to toss aside my roots in order to be valuable. It was solely this lack of perceivable identity that placed a sudden and weighty worth on my shoulders.

Ariana Grande’s image does nothing to aid the struggles of those with features that her fellow white onlookers cannot identify. She not only appropriates black culture but tans to the point of appearing something, anything, other than white. This appeal that she caters to, the decolouring of music made largely by and for people of colour, stands at the same point that I was told to model on. She capitalises on a false identity; I was told to capitalise on my supposed lack of identity.

Representation is something that matters. There is not one image, one kind of face, behind any race. I am Southeast Asian and it is something I am truly proud of. Just because I don’t look like what people assume to be Asian does not mean that I am not. I implore those out there who have faced similar struggles with the question of identity to not let others’ opinions define you. You are who you are. Embrace it fully!

Photo Credit 1: https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/mb8pan/ariana-grandes-wax-figure-is-her-minus-pretending-to-be-black

Photo Credit 2: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/photography/proof/2013/09/17/visualizing-change/

Report: Nicolette Schneiderman

Self-Love: The Road to Happiness and Growth

Self-love is regard for one’s own well-being and happiness.

Sometimes we tend to forget about ourselves and shift our focus to the ones we love most. We also lose ourselves. Death, breakups, any loss or heartbreak can sometimes to lead to carelessness which can become dangerous if action is not taken.

Self-love is essential in order to live a happy, and healthy lifestyle. Self-love comes in different forms. First there’s taking care of your appearance. Second there’s wellness or your health. Third, there’s self-reflection.

Grooming is important because that is what usually makes you feel good. For women, think about when you finally get your hair and nails done. Think about when you wear a nice outfit or your makeup is done. How does that makes you feel? For men, think about when you get a haircut, line-up or even shave. Think about when your wearing your best outfit and fresh scent of cologne. Men know one way to a woman’s heart is that smell of cologne. Then there’s also pampering yourself. This can be going to get a massage, maybe taking a bath with some bath bombs in your tub, or going on a vacation or to a spa.

Health is top priority. When you look good, it is important to feel good too. Healthy eating and exercising requires consistency that can be hard but is possible. Even mental health is important because this is part of your well-being. Going to a gym, working out at home, even yoga or meditation can help when it comes to your body. A safe and relaxing space is needed in order to have a peace of mind. Once you’re at peace with yourself, you will handle stressful situations effectively. Self-reflection is important when it comes to self-love and growth. You need to be able to think about your actions, motives and character. You must question yourself and your past. Maybe you had a pass situation that you did not handle too well. You ask yourself “What could I have done differently?” Maybe there are things about yourself that you never came to terms with but someone close to you has. They’ve told you things that they notice about you that hasn’t changed for the better. You ask yourself “What steps do I need to take in order to change?”

Self-reflection starts with you and it is when you make startling and surprising realizations about yourself that you never even knew. Maybe in this process you realize new things about yourself based on the situations and experiences that you have encountered. Self-reflection is the key to growth.

Self-love starts with ourselves. Always remember that you have to love and take care of yourself as best as you can because if you don’t, who else is going to? Find peace and happiness within yourself, don’t settle for less and be open to change.

Report: Juana Norales

Instagram: @juana.n_

No Laughing Matter

During the recent events of the Black Lives Matter movement, protests have gone on all over the country and around the world as a means to end racial injustice black people have faced on a daily basis before and following the murder of George Floyd by police.

Many news outlets continue to cover these events, including television journalist Christopher Cuomo who has recently taken charge of CNN to speak out about the injustice going on.

Cuomo had the opportunity to interview Attorney Earl Gray who is representing Officer Thomas Lane, one of the four officers involved in Floyd’s death.

When Gray was asked for an explanation he gave the excuse of experience on the job between the officers. Once Cuomo said how wrong the whole situation of George Floy’ds death was in order to end the interview, Attorney Earl Gray made a point to bring up a speech Christopher Cuomo’s father made 50 years ago and Cuomo explained his father would be shocked to see these events taking place today.

The attorney laughed, this understandably upset Cuomo and ended the interview. Cuomo went on to explain that the situation is no laughing matter. The actions of all four officers are unjustifiable.

It’s understandable to try to gain control of a potential threat but once that threat is contained there’s no logical, justifiable reason to use excessive force on that threat.

For Chauvin to put his full body weight with force on George Floyd’s neck with his knee for an extended period of time with multiple pleas to stop, his actions were purely intentional.

Attorney Earl Gray made a point that at a certain point the civilans that were present should’ve intervened. This statement is pointless because the history between police and black civilians shows that when a person tries to show any type of defense for themselves or another person police tactics show that they are quick to shoot and a life is lost.

For an already escalated situation with an officer’s knee with full pressure on Floy’s neck, for any one of the witnesses to take action and intervene at that moment would’ve been another arrest or struggle with police that turns into another murder.

There needs to be more accountability. Police officers need to understand that because they represent the law it is also their duty to protect others and that they are not exempt from the law.

Report: Josephine Coiscou

Harlem's BLM Movements Have a Whole New Look

Stylist Gabriel M. Garmon decided to organize a demonstration in Harlem, paying respect to George Floyd, a Minneapolis man who was killed by a police officer last month. He hoped that many other black men in the area would join him. However, Garmon didn't want this to be an ordinary demonstration. He encouraged all the participants to show up looking "your best," as a way of paying respect to Floyd, whose funeral would be happening in Minneapolis on that same day. "We wanted to honor him and our other lost brothers and sisters in a way that felt appropriate,” says Garmon who organized the event with the help of friends and fellow Black creatives Brandon Murphy and Harold Waight.

The event took place on 125th Street at 10 AM. The amount of people who showed up in their nice clothes far exceeded Garmon's expectations. Several people wore shirts with the phrase "Black Lives Matter" on them, along with their three piece suits. Others dressed in the styles of 1960's activists. Others wore clothing with bright patterns that they had purchased from local clothing stores. But all participators tried to wear their best clothing. “I asked myself, would I wear this to someone’s funeral? To a relative’s funeral? How would I bring myself?” says Elias Hightower, a fashion consultant who was among the demonstrators who took to the streets. “I almost wore Vans with my suit, but I knew I couldn’t do this by halves. This was really about changing the narrative and showing the power of dress.”

Participants also brought handmade signs supporting the movement, and the black members of the LGBT community, specifically the black trans community. “It was such a peaceful experience, it was such a unifying experience and that’s all we wanted,” says Tiffany Ray-Fisher, a local choreographer and organizer who spoke at the event. “No matter our gender or what industry we’re in, it is upsetting to us on a deep level that our presence can be scary to people. Our chant was: We’re not to be feared. When people heard that, they were hanging out of their windows clapping for us, cheering us on.”

For Garmon and his cohorts, this is just the beginning of a much larger movement. “It doesn’t stop here. And I really want to highlight that. We all need to register to vote, we all need to be more vocal,” says the stylist who is in the midst of organizing a second demonstration, this time to commemorate Juneteenth. “Change is coming soon, I know that.”

Report: Anna Bechtel

The Hundreds and Billionaire Boys Club Collab for BLM

The brands The Hundreds and Billionaire Boys Club have teamed up to release a new collaboration. During these intense times, the brands have released a new t-shirt which supports the Black Lives Matter movement. All the proceeds made from this design will go towards the Black Lives Matter movement, as well as the Black Mental Health Alliance.

The shirt is a black t-shirt, with white outlines. It also has double-needle bottom hem and sleeves, shoulder-to-shoulder tape, a preshrunk fit, and is 100 percent cotton tubular jersey. The front part features a bomb with a lit fuse starting to explode, with the capital letters BLM, obviously standing for "Black Lives Matter." Below, the words "Billionaire Boys Club," appear in smaller writing. The back side of the shirt features the words Black Lives Matter, a smaller bomb identical to the one on the front, and a person wearing a helmet.

The brands are the latest to step up with an effort to raise funds for such causes amid worldwide protests calling attention to police brutality, systemic racism, and the dire need for change on all fronts. Other voices who recently announced contributions to social justice organizations include Supreme, Palace, Basketcase, Alife, and more.

Report: Anna Bechtel

Aurora James Calls for Retailers to Support Black Owned Businesses Long Term

Global outrage in response to the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and countless other Black individuals has called attention to the need for reform not only within law enforcement but in retail and the fashion industry as well. Over the past few weeks, we’ve seen fashion and beauty companies pledging their allegiance to the Black community through monetary donations to anti-racism organizations or by using their platforms to promote Black creators but is this sufficient? Aurora James, the founder of sustainable accessories brand Brother Vellies, has stepped forward and proposed a plan that would enable retailers to support Black businesses not just now but long-term. In an Instagram post on May 29th, she called on Whole Foods, Target, MedMen, Walmart, Saks, Sephora, Net-A-Porter, Barnes and Noble, and Home Depot and asked that they would commit to purchasing 15% of their products from Black-owned businesses. What is most admirable about this call to action is it’s blunt nature. James directly told these retailers “So many of your stores are set up in Black communities… We represent 15% of the population and we need to represent 15% of your shelf space.” She continued highlighting the substantial positive affects this pledge could have saying that “Investors for the very first time will start actively seeking [black businesses] out. Small businesses can turn into bigger ones. Real investment will start happening in Black businesses which will subsequently be paid forward into our black communities.” In addition to her Instagram post, Aurora launched a website https://www.15percentpledge.org and 501 (c)(3). Thus far, Sephora has been the only retailer of those tagged in the initial post to commit to the 15% pledge which has many wondering if the others will follow. Still, according to James “thousands of people” have signed the pledge since it began. Individuals who would like to sign the petition can do so online at https://www.15percentpledge.org or by texting “PLEDGE” to 917-540-8148. As Aurora said herself “You want to be an ally? This is what I’m asking for.”

Photo Credits: @aurorajames @15percentpledge

Report: Corine Gauthier

COMME des GARÇONS CDG Launches Social Justice Charity Capsule

COMME des GARÇONS‘ affordable CDG sub-label often issues approachable goods emblazoned with its own branding but the brand’s new selection takes things a step further, dropping slogan-laden goods in support of a good cause. Nine new styles have launched online, with all profits benefiting Minneapolis’ Northside Achievement Zone.

Originally designed as a cheery welcome message for customers returning after the coronavirus self-isolation period lightened, COMME des GARÇONS has repurposed the garments for a more timely cause. Encompassing a host of familiar Japanese-made silhouettes and monochrome shades, the nine items utilize three types of goods to deliver the optimistic printed messages. A black coaches jacket, white tee and black tote all feature a variation of three slogans: “thinking and doing will result in the FUTURE,” “On To The Future, With Good Energy,” and “Believe in a better tomorrow.”

“This is just the first of many actions we are planning for Black Lives Matter. Epitomizing our continued commitment to furthering diversity and equality of opportunity within CDG and DSM, and to listen and learn and do better, in the struggle to obliterate the evil of racism, prejudice and discrimination from the world.” a Dover Street Market‘s site explains.

Report: Amanda T Lou

All About the Benjamins

Rising celeb B.Simone has heads turning from her comments recently. Following her comments with the black lives matter protests and her stance on the situation, B.Simone expressed in an interview with Nick Cannon that her future boyfriend can’t work a 9-5 job. She prefers a “hustling entrepreneur” or a man with a CEO status.

While its always a great thing for someone to have a drive and passion for what they do in life, a lot of important entrepreneurial skills come from 9-5 jobs. Many people who have dreams of owning their own business understand the difficulties that come with it, knowing that although it’s not impossible its a challenge.

Part of owning a business is knowing that you’ll put in much more money than you’ll initially get out. Understanding that it can take a couple of years before seeing a substantial profit from business and in an instant, it can all fall apart just because of how unpredictable the business world is.

It makes you wonder where was B.Simone before her very new famous status? While she may have been hustling for a long time, it is only now that her name is really known in the media.

Its understandable to want a man who has career goals, whether he’s a CEO or an investment banker, or a lawyer shouldn’t matter as long as he is willing to build with you. Everyone has to be willing to meet in the middle because the finished product of a person has nothing to offer besides materialism.

Everyone has standards when it comes to dating. Knowing what you want is important, but sometimes you don’t always know what’s best for you. Have high standards in what you deserve rather than what a man has to have going in order to be with you.

Photo Credit:

https://theblast.com/133098/b-simone-has-social-media-buzzing-after-saying-her-future-boyfri

https://img.srgcdn.com/e//UFhIY252aGtKQ1haNlZQcjdPWHMuanBn.jpg

Report: Josephine Coiscou

Purses For Every Occasion

If you love purses as much as I do listen up. A very important Italian designer has caught my attention. While looking through a magazine I came across this emerald purse sketch. This Italian designer has a brand-new collection of purses just in time for the summer. Bottega Veneta was set up in 1966 in Vicenza, Italy by business visionaries Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro. The organization built up a particular cowhide weave configuration, called intrecciato, that was utilized on the outside of a significant number of its items, and turned out to be generally connected with the Bottega Veneta brand. This unique look has carried on for years for a new modern look. This modern look consists of a crossbody sack in a twofold face maxi weave. It is made a with wide twofold face Nappa strips in a symmetrical weave. The interior is indistinguishable from outside; fitted with a zipped pocket with a magnetic closure. One last thing it has an adjustable shoulder lash overlap inside the pack to convey as a grasp. It comes in hustling green, black, light orange, mortar, custard, orange, caramel and fondente. This purse collection is the perfect purse for the summer/spring to add to your accessories collection.

Photo Credits: Bottega Veneta

Report: Tykaia Rose

"Dear Class of 2020" Love, Chloe x Halle

YouTube’s “Dear Class of 2020” was an extravaganza of musical performances and celebrity appearances that culminated into an online commencement ceremony for the titular graduating class. While there was never any doubt that superstars like Lizzo and Megan Thee Stallion would deliver spectacular shows, audiences were most captivated by the divine, dulcet melodies of Chloe x Halle.

Proving their worth as Beyonce’s protégés, the sister duo performed an enchanting rendition of their hit song, “Do It”. Further embodying what they called “black girl magic,” they were both draped in bejeweled cage dresses crafted by high-fashion designer Zana Bayne. Even the undergarments they wore were the creations of the distinguished brand Venus Prototype. While not as flamboyant or ornate as their fellow musicians, Chloe x Halle nonetheless awed viewers with their vocal talents alone. The class of 2020 certainly felt honored by the sisters’ harmonious brand of congratulating them, turning their remote, unorthodox graduation from isolating to unforgettable.

Report: Nia Hunt

The Netflix Channel For Fashion

London Fashion Week 2020 is the latest fashion event to switch completely to a digital format in accordance with coronavirus safety precautions. While the entire industry is still adjusting to its full conversion to online spaces, London Fashion Week in particular has been radically transformed by this virtualization in more ways than one.

The British Fashion Council (BFC) has announced the premiere of a new digital platform that will serve as the venue for London Fashion Week 2020. In what BFC spokeswoman Clara Mercer is describing as “a Netflix channel for fashion”, industry heads and consumers alike will be treated to a myriad of fashion shows and panel discussions hosted by the participating designers. This online platform is the first to be created by the BFC, and the content will be free and available for all.

London Fashion Week’s online shift has resulted in other smaller changes. In place of New York’s men’s week will be London’s gender-neutral show that includes smaller women’s labels. In fact, smaller, emerging labels will dominate London Fashion Week 2020, whereas the larger brands that are typically mainstays in the annual event will be absent this year. There are multiple reasons for these alterations, the main explanation being the adherence to social distancing requirements.

Photo credits:

https://hypebeast.com/2020/6/london-fashion-week-2020-virtual-schedule

https://www.voguebusiness.com/fashion/london-fashion-week-new-digital-plan-lfw

Report: Nia Hunt

British Vogue Auctions Models' Wardrobes to Raise Money For NHS Charities Together and the NAACP

British Vogue is teaming up with luxury resale site, Hardly Ever Worn It and 23 of the world's favorite supermodels to raise money for NHS Charities Together and the NAACP (The National Association For the Advancement of Colored People). "The Way We Wore" auction, which began on Tuesday, June 9, at 9 a.m. ET, includes one coveted fashion item from each of the models' luxury-filled wardrobes, and will be available to bid on for 72 hours.

Models supporting this great initiative include: Adut Akech, Amber Valletta, Candice Swanepoel, Ashley Graham, Bella Hadid, Christy Turlington, Gigi Hadid, Zayn Malik, Helena Christensen, Imaan Hammam, Irina Shayk, Xiao Wen Ju, Joan Smalls, Karlie Kloss, Kate Moss, Lily Aldridge, Mariacarla Boscono, Karen Elson, Paloma Elsesser, Pooja Mor, Rianne Van Rompaey, Shalom Harlow, and Stella Maxwell.

"We asked 23 of the biggest models to photograph themselves at home in pieces that were special to them, and subsequently donate to the auction," said Sarah Harris, British Vogue's deputy editor and fashion features director, in a video post on Instagram. Model Pooja Mor will be donating her Gucci bag, Lily Aldridge is giving her Prada dress, Candice Swanepoel is sending a sweet Chanel bag, and Imaan Hammam is donating her Celine earrings to support frontline healthcare workers in the UK and the NAACP in the United States.

You can view and shop all the items available in the auction on the Hardly Ever Worn It website now

Report: Amanda T Lou

Vogue of Action

When my latest issue of Vogue came in mail, I was very excited. I noticed the cover was a white background with a very dark red rose. I thought it was strange considering it wasn’t a celebrity on the cover. It had common thread written at the bottom of it. If you want to learn more about this important cause listen up. Vogue was founded by Arthur Baldwin Turnue in 1892. From 1909 the founder of Condé Nast Publications, brought Vogue in transformed it into a women’s fashion magazine focused on beauty, composure, and etiquette in the rest is history. There recent issue that just came out has took a different approach it has become a beacon of hope for designers and creators out there. Vogue has partner with The Council of Fashion Designers of America. This new partnership has now viably brought over $4 million up in easing financing through A Common Thread, it is a video arrangement that will tell stories about how designer’s and their colleagues are adapting and how their organization have been influenced by the Covid-19 pandemic. With this assistance anybody can donate to the fund to help designers. To learn more information please pick up the latest issue of June/July Vogue now.

Photo Credits: Vogue

Report: Tykaia Rose

Date Night Makeup Looks to Match Your Style

When date night finally comes along and you have your outfit picked out and your hair is done, it can be hard to find the right makeup look to match. Whether you want a full face of makeup or a fresh faced look, it all depends on your style.

The Fresh Face: Now the fresh face doesn’t mean you aren’t wearing any makeup at all. If you’re looking for a natural and clean face for your date night, then this is your look. A groomed brow, a sharp line of liquid liner, defining mascara and a nude lip stick or lip gloss, can leave your face looking refreshed.

The sun-kissed look: This look is all about using warm tones. Anything from a peachy tone to a bronze tone for eyeshadow with heavy black eyeliner and mascara. Along with some bronze hue on your cheeks, a shimmery golden lipgloss, and a golden highlight on your cheekbones.

The bold lip: Regardless of the color that you choose, you should prep your lips beforehand by outlining your lips with a matching pencil to really give it that “wow” factor. Then, match the look with neutral eyeshadow tones and a strong defined brow. A winged eyeliner always compliments the bold lip.

Classic smokey eye: The smokey eye is the go to for any candlelit dinner. Since this look is all about drama it’s important to accentuate the outer part of the eye with a dark eyeshadow and the inner part with a lighter eyeshadow to create the ombre effect. Having a strong brow is important for this look as it outlines the eye. Finishing it off with subtle lashes and glossy lip gloss.

The glittery look: Choosing the right eyeshadow is crucial as this will be the prime focus of the look. The color could be nude or it could be a vibrant purple, as long as it has glitter, gloss, or shine it works for the look. Matching that with a soft brow, and over the top lashes will seal the deal. You can also top it off with a strong highlight on your cheekbone to give your face some more glimmer.

The rosy monochrome: This looks light, airy, and flirty. A light pink works perfectly for the eyeshadow, keeping it subtle is key for this look. Along with rosy cheeks and a soft pink lipstick or lipgloss. Keep the eyebrows and lashes subtle and not overdone and you can even skip eyeliner for this look.

Bold liner: Using bright colors for eyeliners is a great way to keep all eyes on you, so this is a great date night look. The eyeshadow could go a little off the nude palette but not too far keeping everything moderate. No matter what color you choose, it should be applied to either the top of the lid or as under liner, but it shouldn’t be both. To complete this look you’ll just need gentle brows and mascara.

Report: Alycia Williams

Beauty Bakerie Now Recognizes Juneteenth as Their Company's Independence Day

In an effort to do their part in addressing years of systemic racism beauty brand, Beauty Bakerie will no longer celebrate the 4th of July. Instead, the brand will recognize Juneteenth (June 19th) as its independence day. This is a bold move and a huge stride in addressing the deletion of black people in American history. After talking about this with many of my friends they questioned why it mattered.

So what is Juneteenth? And why is it so important to celebrate this day? Although the United States was freed from British control on July 4th, 1776, black people were not yet independent. It was not until nearly 100 years later everyone in this country was truly free. Juneteenth, also known as the “Black Independence Day”, signifies the day the last slaves were freed. The Emancipation Proclamation was implemented on January 1st, 1863 but remote states like Texas were not really affected by the proclamation. It actually wasn’t until after the Civil War in 1963 that ALL black people were freed from slavery.

Right now, Juneteenth is not celebrated as a national holiday. Communities still observe this day as the holiday it is! And while many group celebrations have been put on hold there are still ways to enjoy this day on your own. These include using social media to inform your followers about the history of Juneteenth. You could also support black-owned businesses the entire day. Finally, purchase Juneteenth signages and drape them outside and throughout the house to educate your household guests.

Photo Credits: beautybakerie.com, gvwire.com

Report: Lauren Tucker

Various Scents of the Mediterranean

This fragrance collection has been around for many years. It’s only getting bigger by adding a new scent and color to the collection. This collection is very popular in I have no doubt that this scent will be a hit! Sky, Light and Acqua all unique and unforgettable names. This brand-new scent I am willing to share with you will make you fall in love. The Armani design house was established in 1975 by Giorgio Armani. Giorgio entered the style of business as an visual merchandiser however before long settled himself as a fashion designer. Throughout the years, Armani has developed to turn into a worldwide brand equivalent with exquisite effortlessness and refinement, an ethos that has kept on spurring and move Giorgio and is obvious in everything from Armani apparel, jewelry, and accessories, home décor and cosmetics. With this new perfume from Di Gioia Eau De Parfum Collection it is called Ocean Di Gioia Eau Parfum.

This new perfume is made up of a crystalline flower aroma that pays tribute to the exuberant, cheerful nature of the sea. It's worked around the sea-going newness of water jasmine, the delicious notes of shining pear, and facetted by a woody musk base. This new scent will sure take you to the beach or island of your choice!

Photo Credits: Giorgio Armani Beauty

Report: Tykaia Rose

I'm Black & I'm Proud: Songs to Uplift our Community

The deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery are only the tip of the iceberg when addressing black lives lost to racism. At a time when blackness is seen as a weapon, it is hard to stay prideful and inspired. It’s difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel. We need a reminder of how great blackness is. Music is the soundtrack to life. Music is what has helped the black community through our greatest struggles. That is what motivated me to make the list of song that has helped me stay inspired and prideful this last week.

I’m Black & I’m Proud - James Brown

James Brown could not say it better! The funk song was written in 1968 but still speaks to many of the issues the black community faces currently. Addressing the need for black empowerment. This song is number one because right now black equates to “criminal” or “dangerous”. Instead, black people need a reminder of how amazing we are and take pride in how far we have gotten.

Alright - Kendrick Lamar

Used back in 2015 by young activists when protesting police brutality this song became coined the “unifying soundtrack of the movement”. This song is a message of hope, telling us that we will be okay as long as we are in this together.

Keep Ya Head Up - 2Pac

This track uplifts and defends black women. Written when Tupac was only 21, this song addresses how black women are often stereotyped and taken advantage of in and outside of our community. Instead, Pac used this song to show the strength and the importance black women are to the community.

Freedom - Beyoncé

The title speaks for itself. This song performed by Beyonce is meant to elevate the black people and demands “freedom” for oppressive authorities. The music video also illuminates the beauty, softness, and the strength black women exude, showcasing the mothers of Trayvon Martin and Eric Garner holding pictures of their sons. Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar touch on the issues black women face as well as the social injustices the black community faces as a group.

Fight The Power - Public Enemy

We have all heard this phrase before. This song is the reminder we all might need to continue to do our part if we want to reform to the police and justice systems. This song is on my list not because of its super uplifting but because it reminded me that we have the power to change our communities and government. So than months from now, our voices are still being heard.

Photo Credit: Wikipedia.com

Report: Lauren Tucker