Quad Style: Lauren Torian

October 14, 2019

Hi! I’m Lauren Torian. I’m a 4th year majoring in Music, Anthropology, and Comparative Race and Ethnic Studies. I music direct for Voices and sometimes for University Theatre, but I perform with other groups outside UChicago. I work at Ex Lib so hit me up for your triple-shot red eye. If I’m not working, I’m probably watching some Gordon Ramsey show.

This summer, Lauren traveled to Paris, the fashion capitol of the world, to study European Civilizations and French. Photos Taken at the L’Orangerie Museum.

How would you describe your personal style?

Clean. Casual. Feminin(e). An every day outfit for me is monochrome black with some statement/color piece, whether its my jacket, my shoes, my blouse. When I have more bold days, it usually involves menswear or club wear. I have broad shoulders and instead of hiding them, I play into it, so I wear a lot of oversized blazers.

Where do you find style inspiration?

When I can, I try to aim for a balance between sophistication and comfort. If something’s not comfortable, I can’t wear it, so I typically stray away from red-carpet or runway looks. I feel my best when I feel powerful so I look to a lot of powerful femmes: Janelle Monet’s performance outfits, Beyonce’s casual wear, Olivia Pope (pre-season 5), Jessie J, Issa Rae. The next stage of my fashion development is incorporating lingerie, inspired by Rihanna!

What is your relationship to fashion? Has it changed over time?

I used to not care at all about my clothing because I never had money to buy newer clothes or buy pieces that weren’t compatible with every other part of my wardrobe. There was a point where I decided to dress really simply with the few good pieces that I had. I realized that the way I dressed had the possibility to make me feel better about myself, to bring me past my neutral state of being. What I wear on any given day reflects what I need from my clothes that day; sometimes, it’s a bit of comfort, sometimes, it’s a whole lot of confidence, sometimes, it’s a splash of color on a grey day.

“What I wear on any given day reflects what I need from my clothes that day; sometimes, it’s a bit of comfort, sometimes, it’s a whole lot of confidence, sometimes, it’s a splash of color on a grey day.”

Both pants and blazer are from *Forever 21*. These are my favorite pair of pants because I’m 5’10” and it’s hard to find palazzo pants in my size that are also long enough to allow me to wear heels as well. Wearing this with a printed blazer, I feel super powerful.

Do you have any fashion regrets?

Oh god, I loved knee-length jean skirts, stretchy tube tops, and my purple, square glasses when I was in middle school. Also every time I wore jeans under a mini skirt. All my bright, printed sweatshirts from Hot Topic. Good Lord.

What does fashion mean to you on a global definition?

Fashion is one of those fields of art that has both physical utility and social meaning. It’s a reflection of who you were when you bought it and who you are when you wear it today. It reflects who you are in the spaces you inhabit, or that one part of you that choose to show off. Fashion to me is a microcosmic reflection of who I am and how I happen to feel that day!

“Fashion to me is a microcosmic reflection of who I am and how I happen to feel that day!”

All photos courtesy of Brinda Rao.

Pomp and Circumstance at the Paris Haute Couture Shows

July 13, 2018

While we were all sweltering in States, the Paris Haute Couture shows were in full swing. There's been a bit of speculation in recent years as to whether or not it's worth abiding to the fashion calendar–especially as brands merge mens and womenswear showings and opt out of traditional fashion weeks in favor of more exclusive and exotic locations for their shows. That being said, all of the French haute couture heavyweights came to bat this past week, with Chanel hosting in the Grand Palais per usual, and Dior sweeping guests off into a glazed space surrounded by dress forms donning older designs.

Fendi

Valentino

There was big attitude and even bigger hair at Valentino's couture show this season. Lush fabrics arranged in bell sleeves, full bodied skirts and sweeping trains cascaded down the runway in fuchsia, opalescent or cyan green, turmeric orange and velvety reds. Valentino muse Kaia Gerber made an appearance in sky-high hair that seemed to defy gravity. Other models were accessorized with flowery headdresses that read like more glamorous versions of retro swim caps. Many (including myself) were unsure of Pierpaolo Piccioli's direction for the house following Maria Grazia Chiuri's departure for Dior, but this couture show is a testament to Piccioli's vision for Valentino–his creative strengths clearly suit the resplendency and scale required of couture design.

Givenchy

Maison Margiela

In a statement for Vogue, creative director John Galliano mused that his latest vision for the fabled fashion house is to capture “the raw, raw, undiluted essence, the parfum,” of Margiela. Who can argue with that mission? Galliano's latest foray into the world of all things wacky and wonderful sent models down the runway swathed in all the colors of the rainbow exposed and deconstructed across layers of competing fabrics and unnerving silhouettes. Galliano's work for Margiela by no means follows our conventional understandings of beauty, but there is something unmistakably breathtaking about all of his creations for Margiela.

Chanel

Jean Paul Gaultier

One of Jean Paul Gaultier's greatest successes is his ability to bring a distinct creative vision to life without ever feeling formulaic. Haute couture is about pushing the boundaries technically as well as aesthetically, and Gaultier always manages to have fun with his collections in a way that straddles the line between high fashion and kitsch (something Moschino, Philipp Plein or say, Alexander Wang, often struggle with). Sneakers and baseball caps don't often make appearances on haute couture runways, probably for good reason, but Gaultier's vision seamlessly melds components of streetwear and couture, without sacrificing his tendency towards the fantastic and otherworldly.

Giambattista Valli

Christian Dior

Chiuri is a pure genius when it comes to couture. Her interpretations of femininity–which, for this collection, manifested through muted color palettes and unfussy silhouettes–in nuanced and unconventional forms never ceases to amaze me. This collection defied fashion eras and trends, despite drawing from Dior's storied past. On the intimacy and timelessness of her designs, Chiuru reflects: “Couture is about something hidden... If you go to the atelier, you want to take care of yourself and know that someone will take care of you... We have this big opportunity to work with a different definition of time. Craftsmanship is long; it is a dream for a future.”

All images via Vogue Runway. Feature image via Phil Oh for Vogue.

Simon Jacquemus' #NewJob

April 26, 2018

Simon Jacquemus, founder and creative director of the eponymous luxury clothing brand JACQUEMUS, had spent the past few weeks puzzling his social media followers through his extensive use of #newjob. Was he going to another fashion house? Would he leave his namesake behind? What on Earth was going on?

Well, his Spring 2018 collection in Paris settled all that. He walked out at the end of the runway (following a beautiful show inspired by Jacquemus' time in the souks of Morocco) wearing a beige sweatshirt bearing the words New Job L’Homme Jacquemus. Six years after the debut of his brand, a menswear line–at last!

Some looks from Jacquemus' Fall/Winter 2018 Collection | Images Via

The line can be expected to debut around the start of summer, thought precise location and presentation are yet to be confirmed. Jacquemus has acknowledged that he's already deep into the process: "It was so weird to do a fitting with a male model,” he said. “I usually drape the clothes directly onto the girl, but this was different... so I am learning something new. I don’t want to do the men’s exactly like the women’s. Everything comes from the heart with me, so I am going to discover myself as I design it. My woman was very naive when I started, and she became more sophisticated with time. The men’s is going to be same. It’ll be serious, even if I am not!"

“There were a lot of rumors. That I was going to Céline, that I was going to Versace... Everyone thought I was going to another house but I’m staying at my own. You can have a new job even if it’s at your own house.”

— Simon Jacquemus

On why he's waited so long to start his own menswear line, Jacquemus attributes his creative choice to emotions. "The (menswear) it was something I didn’t feel," he explained. "I didn’t feel it, and I was like ‘when I fall in love is when I’m going to do the men’s because he’s going to exist’. When he’s someone I can see, someone I can smell and I know what he’s eating–I know everything about him."

And that's exactly what happened. "I fell in love and I started to imagine that the Jacquemus man exists. I did Jacquemus women’s for my mother, and while I’m not saying that the men’s collection will be all about my boyfriends, it will still always be a love story."

The brand took shape back in 2009, after Jacquemus dropped out of fashion school following his mother’s untimely death (Jacquemus is her maiden name).

*Simon Jacquemus and his late mother - a big part of his inspiration | Image Via*

From there, his fame in the fashion world skyrocketed. He rapidly gained the support of high profile industry figures and took home the Special Jury Prize in the annual awards held by LVMH back in 2014.

Since then, he has earned a reputation as one of the most talented young designers on the Paris scene, whose name is regularly put forward in the ongoing game of musical chairs at major houses–hence the rumor frenzy surrounding his #newjob.

Looking ahead, Jacquemus has predicted that the addition of a men’s line will certainly impact the mood of the brand. "This is going to change Jacquemus a little in the sense that it’s much more forward-looking, because there is a lot of melancholy in the women’s collections, for obvious reasons," he said.

I for one cannot wait! Keep your eyes peeled for further updates.

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Where & Wear: Bistro Voltaire

April 17, 2018

It's been over a year since I was studying abroad in Paris, wandering the city eating too many carbs. Besides missing the perpetually gray skies and Haussmann architecture, part of my heart always craves some classic French cuisine (I know, it's basic). If you're anywhere close to feeling this way, stroll over to Bistro Voltaire, a not-very-talked-about, but gem of a French restaurant.

I wouldn't say there's anything particularly amazing about this restaurant, but it doesn't disappoint. It benchmarks as the perfect French restaurant that I want to go to. The interior is marked with famous quotes from your typical lineup of Frenchmen, including Bonaparte and obviously Voltaire. The dim-lit aura is true to the likes of similar places in Paris.

The menu doesn't miss anything I crave: from French onion soup to escargot to ratatouille, you'll have a solid lineup of something along the likes of my favorite places in Paris. And yes, that's an eternal shoutout to Le Bon Pecheur.

The food pricing ranges from pre-fixe menus ranging from $33-$55 to general a la carte items that range from $10-30.

The ambiance is romantic and quiet, making it a perfect restaurant for special occasions. There's also a humble wine selection in its small yet comfy space. Bistro Voltaire has even been ranked in 2014 as one of the top 10 romantic restaurants in Chicago.

What to Wear:

With a date night vibe, opt for a cute and muted-color ensemble for your time here. Anything from a simple crew and black leather skirt combination or a dusty-pink dress will do.

Images Via//Via

Feature Image Via

The Best Boutique Shopping in Le Marais

February 27, 2018

Studying abroad in Paris this quarter or next? Planning on visiting the city over Spring Break? No trip is complete to the world capital of fashion without wandering through Le Marais, where boutiques, high end designer stores and vintage shops offer a comprehensive sartorial crash course in French fashion. In the mean time, also be sure to check out our other guides to Paris nightlife, food, desserts and all around fun.

👜 Maison Labiche 👜

Paris based label Maison Labiche specializes in adorable printed and striped tees embroidered with cheeky tag lines ("lolita," "mr. cool," "chérie," etc.) and adorable motifs of bananas, cherries or cacti. From sailor stripe quarter sleeves to slouchy tees and custom embroidered Converse, Maison Labiche offers mens, womens and children's fashions, although many of their items are unisex.

👜 Nice Things by Paloma S. 👜

Nice Things is an adorable boutique that offers shoppers breezy sundresses, linen frocks, delicate sweaters and fun, bohemian jewelry. The brand definitely has a coastal, beach-friendly vibe (it was founded in Barcelona, after all) and you're bound to find something you love as you comb through the store's colorful racks. They also feature a ton of comfy and versatile footwear options as well as fun accessories such as straw beach bags, pom pom adorned necklaces and leather handbags that come in every color from peachy pink to sky blue and canary yellow.

👜 Gang of Earlybirds 👜

This amazing boutique is tucked away in the outskirts of Le Marais and easy to miss! Stop in for sleek swimwear, delicate statement jewelry, home decor, fine leather goods and an array of bohemian meets minimalist chic clothing.

👜 Sept Cinq 👜

Sept Cinq is the perfect spot for picking up cute, one-of-a-kind gifts for friends and family as well as a few souvenirs for yourself. This cozy boutique has a wonderful range of moderately priced jewelry as well as stationery, accessories and Paris themed knick-knacks. The store also shares a space with a café, so if you ever tire of shopping a quick shot of espresso and delicious homemade cakes are just a few steps away!

👜 Daphne Dasque 👜

Dasque's dynamic jewelry boutique is tucked behind an unassuming black facade in the midst of Le Marais. From delicate, stackable rings to chunky statement pieces, Dasque's handcrafted and unique work ranges from easily affordable to more on the pricier side. Whether you're on the hunt for a pair of day-to-day earrings, a hoop for your new cartilage or septum piercing or a ring you plan on investing in for the long term, Dasque's work will never leave you disappointed!

Feature image via

Study Abroad Files: Paris

January 4, 2018

Paris, je t'aime! It's easy falling for a city as beautiful and engaging as Paris. From flapper-era speakeasies that still lure local crowds to top-notch boutique shopping, world-class museums, pastries that dissolve in your mouth and fresh made gelato around every corner, it's hard to go hungry or get bored in this city. Keep reading for our favorite spots in Paris for dining, drinking, dancing and more!

Dining

The Marais is home to everything you could ever want, from boutique shopping to chic bars, galleries and hole-in-the-wall falafel shops. Lizard Lounge is a really fun bar with good music, tasty sandwiches and a ton of fun drinks. Order "Lizard Juice" (spiked fruit punch) for the table if you come with friends! For mouthwatering Neapolitan style pizza, swing by Da Vito a couple blocks away (then head through the back of the shop for the Moonshiner speakeasy). If you ever tire of bread and cheese, Au Petit Thai has some of the best Thai food in the city and is tucked away on an adorable street corner. Nearby is local favorite Le Loir dans La Théière, which offers a range of delicious, house-made quiches and pies, and a menu that changes daily.

While Paris is known for its pastries, crepes and bread, the city boasts a handful of incredible small-batch gelato shops. Personal favorites include Pozzetto, Amorino (a chain you can find almost anywhere) or Berthillon (the best gelato I've ever tasted). If you're craving bubble tea, the O Bubble "bubble tea bar" has tons of delicious flavors, located right in the heart of Montmartre (and definitely gives Joy Yee a run for its money).

The open-air Marché des Enfants Rouges is a fun trip if you're in the mood for super fresh food. The food and flower market sells everything from fruits and vegetables, to cured meats, fine wines and aged cheeses. There are also a handful of restaurants scattered throughout the market, whether you're in the mood for falafel and pita, fresh made pasta or seafood.

Falafel at Marché des Enfants Rouges; image via

For a great boulanger chain you can find throughout most of the city, stop inside an Eric Kayser for afternoon tea or coffee with any one of their delicious pastries, tarts or tiny cakes. For the complete Parisian experience, munch on macarons at the beautifully ornate Ladurée on the Champs-Elysees. Chocolate connoisseurs should also pay a visit to one of Patrick Roger's chocolate boutiques. Roger, "a chocolate sculptor", currently holds the title of Meilleur ouvrier de France, an award that distinguishes him as the best chocolatier in the country.

Sightseeing

Montmartre is fairly touristy but definitely worth the trip. From outdoor markets, some of the best street art in Paris, and the Salvador Dalí museum, to the beautiful Sacre Cœur, Moulin Rouge and Wall of Love, the neighborhood offers breathtaking views of the city, leafy parks and quintessential Parisian bistros pulled straight from the scenes of Amélie.

Grab a bottle of wine, some speakers and head over to Pont Neuf with friends to picnic and people-watch along the Seine. Nearby are the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th arrondissements, home to must-see attractions like the Louvre, Jardin des Tuileries, Musée de l'Orangerie, the Notre Dame Cathedral, Musée D'Orsay, Place des Vosges, Centre Pompidou as well as countless cafés and boutique shopping. For lesser known museums that still house some of the best collections of art, design and fashion in the world, check out Fondation Louis Vuitton located just outside Paris, Musée Galliera for fashion and Musée Rodin, a beautiful mansion and sculpture garden. Check museum websites in advance for days when tickets are discounted or free!

The Jardin du Luxembourg is incredibly lovely and full of locals on any given day. Bring a book to read under the shade and you'll feel straight out of a French Impressionist painting. Nearby are the popular Catacombs of Paris. Booking tickets in advance is more expensive, so come prepared to wait in line for over an hour to see this popular site! Arrive before 5pm for guaranteed entry.

For an escape from city life, the Père Lachaise cemetery is the largest (and arguably the most beautiful) cemetery in Paris and houses several famous historical figures like Oscar Wilde, Gertrude Stein, Frédéric Chopin and Marcel Proust, among others. The Promenade Plantée is essentially Paris' answer to the popular High Line in New York City. The elevated park offers picturesque views of the city and is full of beautiful flowers and greenery. A short walk away is the colorful and oft-photographed rue Crémieux, a side street home to adorable townhouses painted in shades of lavender, sky blue and hot pink.

Shopping

For the best shopping in Paris you have to go to the Marais. From better known chains like COS or Zara, to local boutiques, vintage stores and exclusively Parisian brands, you're bound to happen upon something you like.

The 1st and 2nd arrondissements are populated by high fashion, couture and expensive shopping. Colette is a must-see for fashion lovers with its bespoke couture, jewelry and artwork for sale. On the ground floor it also offers some more affordable options, like art books, tech accessories and postcards you pick up on your way out. Rue Cambon, home to the Chanel flagship store, is also fun to ogle over. For beautiful rooftop views of Paris, head over to the Printemps Haussmann department store and venture up to the 9th floor.

Shakespeare and Co. bookstore; image via

The beloved Shakespeare and Company bookstore along the Left Bank is a must-see for book lovers or anyone who loves history. Founded by George Whitman in 1951, the quaint shop is seeped in nostalgia and still serves as an important literary institution for readers and writers. For antique shopping, vintage clothing, jewelry and miscellanea, spend a few hours exploring the Marché aux Puces on the outskirts of the city.

Nightlife

If you're looking for nightclubs or discotheques, Le Duplex offers multiple floors with different music, from latin, to hiphop, R&B and top 40 hits. Located along the Seine, Wanderlust hosts an outdoor terrace in addition to several dance floors to choose from. Cafe Oz (go to the Denfert Rochereau location) is also a popular bar and gathering place among international crowds that transforms into a dance club and concert venue at night.

For a more laid-back vibe, Moonshiner is a popular speakeasy with incredible cocktails. The venue is tight, so head out with a small group and get ready to mingle and meet locals at the bar or in the smoke room. For great dancing and music, Le Comptoir Général has an undeniably cool atmosphere and lets you lounge on sofas as you sip on fun (albeit overpriced) drinks. For an endless list of drink options that feature everything from lychee to blueberry and apple champagne, Le Crocodile is perfect for several rounds of drinks. The best part? They slip a crocodile shaped gummy into every drink for you to enjoy afterwards.

For live music venues, the intimate, speakeasy style Chez Papa Jazz Club is world renowned, but food and drinks are (understandably) pricey. Little Red Door is also known as one of the best cocktail bars in the world and definitely worth treating yourself to!

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