Examining Julia Fox's Style

Image via The Citizen.

Odds are you have heard of Julia Fox. Whether you first encountered her as “Josh Safdie’s muse when he wrote Uncut Gems” (Youtube, 5:40-45) or as the notorious short-term girlfriend of Ye (formerly Kanye West), Fox has undeniably popped up as a sort of cultural icon.

Odds are you probably also love her or hate her, as is the case with many famous and infamous women. If you want to find out more about her enigmatic rise to fame, her interview with podcaster Alex Cooper was nothing short of enlightening. In short, Fox grew up in New York City and from early on had multiple encounters with the law and ongoing struggles with substance abuse. Her former occupations include dominatrix, designer, photographer, model, actress, and director. (Wikipedia) She also has a one-year-old son.

Though I’m not here to talk about her backstory, both her former careers and her adolescence in New York City seem to exert a particular influence on her style today. Firstly, her job as a dominatrix impacts her leather- and latex-centered, skintight sets donned on red carpets and at fashion shows. Secondly, her early life spent flirting with danger and navigating big city club scenes is characteristic of Fox’s deep sense of spontaneity, evident in her personality, clothing, and careers.

Fox (rightfully so) has moved up from unknown model and actress to an alluring cultural and fashion icon.

In her rise to fame, we’ve seen how her spontaneous, it-girl-on-the-go nature carries over to her outfits. Particularly, two DIY looks have garnered buzz on social media.

Firstly, in March, Fox was seen wearing a set of jeans and a matching denim top— paired with Alexander Wang denim knee-high boots and jeans sewn to be a bag.

Like the generous icon she is, she revealed on her Instagram a tutorial of how she split one pair of high-waisted jeans into the set that she created herself, using the remaining fabric of the jeans to make the top.

Image via @juliafox on Instagram.

Directly following her viral double denim DIY, Fox customized another simple outfit for herself, similarly pairing it with designer accessories.

Image via @juliafox on Instagram.

She sliced a plain white Hanes tank top in half to create and ultra cropped top with a matching mini skirt. With it she wore Giuseppe Zanotti black thigh-high boots with matching gloves, a small black Balenciaga bag, and black sunglasses. Fox similarly posted a tutorial for cutting the tank-top into a two-piece on her Instragam.

In her matching sets, we see a slight departure from her normal sense of style, self-described as “dominatrix couture” in her interview with Cooper. Yet, Fox stays true to her core self, evident here in the patent black leather gloves and boots that are both villainous and chic.

It’s these shiny, black, Cat Woman-esque looks (often paired with with smoky black eyeshadow done by Fox herself) that I adore the most. They feel the most Julia, rather than the perhaps Kanye-influenced version of Julia that seemed to be popping up in their short yet public relationship in which he often styled and purchased clothes for her. Despite frequent criticism that Julia Fox is “copying” Kim Kardashian, who Kanye also used to style, it’s when she’s clad in leather that Julia is in her most bewitching state.

Featured image via Glamour.

Meg Ryan is my spring style inspo

Oh, Meg Ryan. We all know and love her by her iconic lead performances in timeless rom-coms like When Harry Met Sally, You’ve Got Mail, and Sleepless in Seattle. Due to this, we may associate her with the chunky sweaters, shoulder-padded blazers, and high-waisted jeans that came with her 80s film career. This look is doubtlessly iconic. Tiktokers even went so far as to claim fall 2021 as “Meg Ryan Fall”, taking inspiration from her normcore look in When Harry Met Sally. Yet, I have grown an obsession with Meg Ryan’s style through the lens of a different era: the 2000s and 2010s. 

One fateful day, there she was on my Pinterest feed: Meg Ryan. Though I’m unsure of which particular Meg Ryan street style moment first struck my heart cords, I can envision the silhouette that often characterizes her outfits. With loose and oversized pieces for bottoms and well-fitting neutral t-shirts for tops, she pairs her too-cool-to-care pieces with the perfect accessories to create an androgynous aesthetic.

In this era, Meg evidently repeats her staple accessories and garments, making the recreation of this style sustainable and supportive of basic pieces. Meg Ryan is all the inspiration I need as spring rolls around. Let me break down her street style in 5 photos so you can help recreate her looks too.

Look #1:

Image via Pinterest.

Here is a classic Meg outfit in which we find her sporting many of her staple pieces. She wears a neutral, well-fitting t-shirt paired with loose dark wash jeans held up by a thick black belt. She pairs green athletic sneakers with her classic black messenger bag, silver jewelry, aviators, and a newsboy cap.

Look #2:

Image via Pinterest.

With this outfit, we begin to see how Meg recycles pieces in her closet. She continues to belt oversized dark wash jeans and pairs them with a t-shirt, this time an olive green color. Over her r-shirt, she layers with a brown leather jacket, which matches her brown Dr. Martens. Meg accessorizes again with her classic messenger bag, aviators, and paperboy cap.

Look #3:

Image via Pinterest.

In a look suited for warmer weather, Meg is spotted in an all black outfit with belted, baggy pants, a simple black t-shirt, and black Nike Huaraches. We see her messenger bag and aviators make another appearance, but paired with a small-brimmed straw hat that breaks up the monochromatic look.

Look #4:

Image via Pinterest.

Riding down an escalator, Meg wears variation of her staple dark wash belted jeans. She pairs them with black clogs and a zip-up brown leather jacket. Alongside her messenger bag she wears narrow glasses.

Look #5:

Image via Pinterest.

Lastly, in a fit perfectly suited for the ambivalent spring weather, Meg wore a neutral toned outfit with black accessories. She belted oversized beige trousers and wore a loose-fitting cream top. With all-black dad sneakers, she added her classic messenger bag, paperboy cap, and sunglasses.

In the next months, I will surely be taking a page out of the Meg Ryan street style playbook. Unafraid to repeat and recycle, a review of her outfits always inspires me to recreate paired-down, carefree vibe.

Featured image via Pinterest.

The Age of Celebrity Cosmetics

“The last thing the world needs is another beauty brand. But that’s too bad,” Lady Gaga proclaimed in an advert for the launch of her makeup line, Haus Laboratories. She is not wrong to point out that there has been an increase in the number of new beauty brands hitting the market—many being led by celebrities. None of this is necessarily new, but the rate at which celebrities are taking control of their cosmetic lines has increased dramatically in the last decade.

Back in 1987, Elizabeth Taylor created one of the first, and certainly the biggest, celebrity-launched perfume line. At the time, celebrity endorsement was growing as a means to advertise products, but Elizabeth opted to start her own company, the House of Taylor. Her first perfume would win her a Fifi award, the most prestigious award in the fragrance industry, and her subsequent perfumes would establish her perfume line as a staple of celebrity brands.

Thirty-two years later, and the Haus of Gaga (Lady Gaga’s creative group) would launch their own beauty brand, Haus Laboratories. The line currently sells eyeliners, lip glosses, shimmer powders, and lip liners. Although technically a collaboration with Coty Inc. and Amazon, the brand’s public image is all Gaga. Gaga joins a long list of contemporary celebrities starting up their own brands. Selena Gomez has recently launched Rare Beauty, and Ariana Grande launched her own “thank u next” perfume line.

Although Grande’s perfume is her first dip into the fragrance world, she has been collaborating with makeup brands for years. Most notably, in 2015 she joined the ranks of Selena Quintanilla, Mariah Carey, and Madonna with her first MAC Cosmetics collaboration. The proceeds to her collection go towards helping those affected by AIDS. MAC is iconic for their inclusion of celebrities, and Ariana’s partnership with them proved not only that she was stepping into a new realm of stardom but that MAC still knows how to remain in the social consciousness.

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As is apparent with Ariana Grande launching her own line, though, celebrities are seeking more autonomy over the products they release. It seems that many have grown past the desire to have their names attached to a prestigious beauty brand. It has now become a race to make one’s own name prestigious.

Indeed, after launching her own brand with money she had saved from modeling, Kylie Jenner surpassed any and all expectations with the success of her Kylie Lip Kits. Since 2016, the brand Kylie Cosmetics has launched its creator into becoming the youngest “self-made” billionaire. It stands to wonder if the success came from the already established Kardashian fame, or did Kylie Cosmetics really revolutionize the lip market?

Whenever Kylie Cosmetics is mentioned, Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty is not far behind. Certainly, Rihanna’s cosmetic line has grown to be one of the most notable cosmetic brands of the past decade despite only being released in 2017. With its focus on an inclusive shade range, it quickly eclipsed other brands in sales and publicity.

Fenty Beauty has clearly become the focus of Rihanna’s attention for the past few years, much to the disdain of her music fans. Any time a new release comes, there is as much praise for the products as there are, “Where’s the album?” comments. Similar comments have been directed towards Lady Gaga as Haus Labs appeared to be her focus over her “Chromatica” album. Do celebrity beauty brands come at the cost of their art? The annoyance directed at Rihanna’s beauty venture has nevertheless been eclipsed by praise. Her latest photo promoting her Savage x Fenty lingerie line has become one of her most like posts in a matter of days.

On a different note, brands like that of Rihanna and Gaga are not as entirely independent as they first appear. As mentioned, Haus Labs is owned by Coty Inc. This company is also affiliated with Kylie Cosmetics, Katy Perry Perfumes, and many other well-known brands. Notably, 50% of Fenty Beauty’s revenue is now owned by Louis Vuitton SE (LVMH). Despite celebrities having more control of their beauty products, the major beauty corporations have managed to forge new partnerships that benefit them. The names of brands have shifted, but the big players have not.

Nevertheless, it cannot be denied that celebrity-owned brands are growing in cultural influence over past, well-established brans. Kylie Cosmetics is in the top 10 most influential beauty brands of 2019, and Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty has been adapted in the social lexicon for beauty brand excellence. Fenty was popularized for being one of the first beauty lines to release a truly inclusive shade range. This followed various scandals of brands promoting a diverse range but failing to execute. It is clear that celebrity brands have a reputation for being at the forefront of innovation and inclusion.

As established beauty brands continue to collaborate with celebrities, and opening the world up to YouTube celebrities as well, it is clear that this a symbiotic relationship that will continue to flourish. However, the artist’s need for control over their art is driving celebrities to gain as much ownership as they can over products that use their likeness. As the beauty industry shifts towards more inclusivity and diversity, the biggest names in Hollywood like Rihanna and Gaga are leading the charge. The real question—will traditional brands allow this takeover?

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The Award for Least Sustainable Goes To: Awards Shows

Grammy’s 2020

Grammy’s 2020

Award show season is well underway with plenty of commentary to be made about outfits, snubs, and drama, but the one thing that seems to have evaded the spotlight for the nth year in a row is the wastefulness and lack of sustainability behind the lavish yearly Hollywood ordeals.

Hear me out: I’m not coming after the practice of celebrating individuals for their contributions to music, theater, art, and pop culture in general. Instead, my point is to highlight the excessiveness of the culture surrounding awards shows. Every year, celebrities gather in events that produce massive amounts of paper and plastic waste, not to mention the environmental impact of all the one-time outfits, fossil fuels exhausted on the private jets, and limousines used for transport. 

Golden Globes 2020

Golden Globes 2020

Arguably, the private transportation—especially on the ground—is somewhat of a necessity given security concerns for some A-listers, and the non-reusable award show outfits are advertisements for the celebrities, the projects they are involved in, and the designers that create red carpet looks. It could even be argued that American consumerism and obsession with demonstrated wealth is what drives the cycle and curiosity surrounding Hollywood’s showy lifestyles. But lately it seems like those that we idolize (or those that we are conditioned to idolize by tabloids, if you want to think about it that way) reflect public and global concerns increasingly less. It is undeniable that celebrity voices have lent spotlights to foundations doing good work, and that in recent years many have been more outspoken on issues with the entertainment industry and greater injustices in the world. However, this all becomes a little sour when the hypocrisy of the institutions that they participate in is considered…

How many private jets are flown into awards shows? How about the idling lines of limos that each celebrity takes? The napkins used at every table? How much food from the on and off-set dining menus is tossed out into landfill without being touched? If we’re going to talk about the unsustainability of fast fashion, why should we keep to a double standard that wags its finger at companies that offer clothing for affordable prices to the general public rather than the amount of resources used to create single use suits and dresses for red carpets?

SAG Awards 2020

SAG Awards 2020

The fact of the matter is that celebrities have a unique platform to elevate important causes, but advocacy seems to only infiltrate Hollywood selectively. If celebrities and awards shows really wanted to set an example and take a stand for the issues that so many in Hollywood claim to be invested in, they should find ways to reduce the environmental impact of and the waste produced by these events that are attended by a relatively small circle of people. 

Re-evaluating the orders put in for supplies and food for awards shows is a place to start. Few celebrities actually eat at awards shows—instead choosing to eat before arriving—and the leftovers get put in landfill, contributing to the 3rd largest cause of methane emissions in the US. On the celebrity side, reconsidering transportation options to red carpet events and repeating outfits (quelle horreur!) are ways to reduce individual impact and start to change the wasteful culture surrounding awards shows. 

This season has already demonstrated attempts to be conscious of these concerns. The Golden Globes changed the menu to entirely vegan dishes in an effort to control for the agricultural impact of serving filet mignon for hundreds of people that likely won’t eat it anyway. Joaquin Phoenix has announced that he is partnering with Stella McCartney to wear the same suit to every award show he attends this season in an effort to reduce waste. But these are only two specific cases of change.

In a time when awards show viewership has hit the lowest point in 8 years, we need to ask whether it is enough, whether the entertainment industry is keeping up with global concerns, and whether they’ll demonstrates a willingness to walk the walk instead of just talking the sustainability talk.

Images via here, here, here, here, here.

In the Influencer World, Sponsored Posts Outweigh Social Responsibility

The latter half of the 2010s certainly owes the Kardashians credit for developing the concept of the “Instagram body,” with Kourtney, Kim, and Khloe’s unending posts about their flat tummies and curvy bodies. Of course, with the evils of Instagram, there is no way to escape the barrage of influencer-backed products. A small list begins with Sugar Bear Hair (hair vitamins), FitTea (detox tea), and HiSmile (teeth-whitener kit).

While there is nothing wrong with product promotion on social media platforms (despite being incredibly annoying), there should be greater transparency as to prevent misleading advertising that tricks consumers into equating the complex body-maintenance of high level socialites with a silver-bullet diet product.

This is where Jameela Jamil comes in, with her informative and almost heroic takedowns of the Kardashians. In the post below, The Good Place star offers an honest critique of problematic influencer advertising.

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Tea, for lack of a better word. #CommentsByCelebs

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Khloe has since deleted the post but has yet to make a formal apology. It seems fairly unlikely that future promotion of these products with end on the Kardashian camp, considering that Momager Kris Jenner has described the upwards of six-figure deal her daughters have per post. Jamil has solidified her stance, stating in an interview:

“Weight is such a stupid way to monitor your health because it doesn’t mean anything. Women saturate water, and fat weighs less than muscle, and there’s so much misinformation out there I think we shouldn’t be thinking about our size, we should be thinking about our health and our mental health.”

Jamil serves as a true defender of body positivity and is right to point out the harmful nature of these products that promise an easy way toward weight loss for an “ideal” body. These companies profit off problematic beliefs and target vulnerable populations, especially young women who are struggling with body image.

Harvard scientist and eating disorder activist S. Bryn Austin has praised Jamil, claiming that the actress’ prominent voice has informed consumers more effectively than the fine-print warnings that note that none of these products are FDA-approved or necessarily healthy for consumption.

Hopefully, major influencers like the Kardashians will become more socially responsible in their brand partnerships, cut their losses on profits, and take up a slightly more virtuous route by leaving these products in the past.

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Highs and Lows of the 2019 Grammy Awards

The Grammys delivered its predictable mix of questionable choices re: fashion, tributes, and snubs, but this year also gave us a few glimpses into the light at the end of its fraught tunnel. Crowd favorite albums like Childish Gambino’s This is America and Ariana Grande’s sweetener both took home prizes—or rather, were later sent the prizes, as neither artist attended the show. In fact, there was a considerable chunk of absent star power with artists like Beyonce, Jay Z, Rihanna and Taylor Swift joining the list of no-shows. The winning artists who did attend didn’t fare that well, as the show featured many cut off speeches and production issues.

After the awards show mutinies of 2018, all eyes were on the Recording Academy to finally adapt to the current landscape and reward artistic exploration, especially by women and minority musicians who are consistently robbed of accolades. Last year #GrammysSoMale went viral, and this year could have been subtitled “revenge of the women.”

In comparison to previous years’ shameless disregard for innovation, this year’s Grammys definitely delivered. The package may have gotten lost in the mail and arrived a little beaten up, but it was delivered… eventually. Here are my five most notable moments of the 2019 Grammys:

Michelle Obama’s cameo

No, she’s not a musician, but anyone who doesn’t think her appearance elevates any event is kidding themselves. My First Lady joined Lady Gaga, Jada Pinkett Smith, J.Lo and host Alicia Keys onstage to express her love of music. But there’s absolutely nothing I can say about her that’ll sound better than her own words. I miss you, Michelle!

J.Lo’s Motown tribute

Notable for all the wrong reasons. I’m thinking of suing for emotional damages… whichever old white man who chose Jennifer Lopez to deliver a tribute to Berry Gordy’s groundbreaking black record label needs a serious talking to.

As someone who grew up on the likes Marvin Gaye, Gladys Knight and the Temptations, there is positively no reason to have J.Lo’s 00’s R&B/showgirl stylings in the ring for a tribute to Motown Records. Yes, she is a super talented artist, but put the “soul” in Motown’s “soul music” she does not. Please sit down, Smokey. To add insult to injury, Berry Gordy received no shoutouts? Producers, Diana Ross was literally in the room! Speaking of Miss Ross…

The Diana Ross tribute, by the only person qualified to do so…

…Diana herself! Rather than get J.Lo’ed, Miss Ross took her legacy into her own hands and performed a few of her hits as she approaches her 75th birthday. The palate cleanser we all needed. A true daughter of Motown, Diana’s mark on pop culture is as undeniable. Her lilting voice, big hair and seemingly bigger eyes have been stopping the world in the name of love for 50 years and counting.

Though nominated 12 times and eventually recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012, none of her music ever received a competitive Grammy, but nothing has ever held Diana down. She’s the ultimate definition of a legend.

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Cardi B in general

Belcalis Alamanzar was the indisputable champion of the 2019 Grammys. Her red carpet look was easily the best of the night, a 1995 Thierry Mugler haute couture look inspired by the birth of Venus. Paying homage to one of the finest works of art is a perfect middle finger gesture to those who write her off as nothing more than a ghostwritten hoodrat.

Never one to do things halfway, Cardi further discredited her haters by cinching her first Grammy for Rap Album of the Year, Invasion of Privacy. But for me, the icing on the cake was her transcendent performance of hit single “Money.” From the moment that pianist looked straight into the camera, we didn’t stand a chance. The costumes (all three of her Grammys looks were Mugler!), the dancers, the synchronization, the instrumentals, THE COSTUMES… show-stopping is too tame a word.

Music video by Cardi B performing Money (LIVE at the 61st GRAMMYs). 2018 Atlantic Recording Corporation

All of the other performances

Besides the Motown tragedy, the night’s performances really consistently delivered. The rise in visibility of public opinion and outrage on social media has rendered the awards themselves much less relevant than the performances. The Dolly Parton tribute was beautiful and demonstrated a great understanding of her legacy, the Aretha Franklin tribute was perfectly casted by women clearly influenced by her sound, and Janelle Monae’s “Dirty Computer” medley was an entire production. A personal favorite was Camila Cabello opening the show with “Havana” featuring special guest Ricky Martin.

All in all, the Grammys are bouncing back in a major way. Who knows, in a few years artists may actually be receiving awards show credit directly proportional to the quality of their work! Stay tuned!

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Rihanna Makes History with LVMH Partnership

We may not be getting new music anytime soon, but everyone’s favorite multi-hyphenate businesswoman Bad Gal RiRi is expanding her empire with the world’s largest luxury conglomerate LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy). This historic deal marks her as the first female designer of color to receive her own clothing brand with the huge parent company, which also owns Dior, Givenchy, and Fendi.

Details about the contract are currently unknown, but sources close to LVMH have confirmed the partnership. According to these sources, LVMH has already handpicked a number of employees from within the company to work on the project with Rihanna and her associates. The Internet went into a frenzy with speculation when Rihanna stepped out in Manhattan wearing gold shades with her her Fenty brand name spelling out across the temples. Some claimed the star was test-driving a prototype of the sunglasses, while dropping a tease for this next big step in her career.

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Rihanna has been a monumental influence in the make-up and fashion world for many years now, with her tenure as the creative director of Puma, successful lingerie line Savage x Fenty, and iconic outfits cementing her as a fashion icon.

The launch of her formidable beauty brand Fenty Beauty in September 2017 changed the way that people of color are treated in the beauty community. Her efforts to create make-up for all skin shades with the creation of 40 shades of Pro Filt'R foundation, shook the beauty community and garnered her international acclaim from industry heavyweights. The undeniable success of Fenty Beauty has compelled other makeup companies to similarly fall in line and expand their range of options for consumers; it’s even been nicknamed The Rihanna Effect.

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Her collection with LVMH will span ready-to-wear, leather goods and accessories, and could potentially be released with her ninth album (speculated to come out sometime later this year). Rihanna’s new luxury line signals a shift in focus for LVMH as it continues to diversify its holdings beyond its heritage brands, including investing $2.6 billion in luxury travel operator Belmond Ltd.

Images via: cover photo, Rihanna in gold glasses, Rihanna’s 40 Shades

Eckhaus Latta Is Breaking down Fashion Boundaries

Many labels have taken on the theme of modern deconstruction in their collections, though few are able to pull off the aesthetic as well as Eckhaus Latta. Founded in 2011 by Mike Eckhaus and Zoe Latta, Eckhaus Latta has firmly established itself as an avant-garde brand that is not afraid to push boundaries. Despite being relatively young, the brand has already developed a cult following, especially in NYC, and celebrities such as Kendall Jenner and Troye Sivan have been spotted wearing their pieces around town.

Runway images via.

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What’s refreshing about Eckhaus Latta is their attitude towards fashion; they are known for rejecting gender binaries and pushing the limits of what is acceptable and “wearable,” which makes their approach to design feel more authentic. The designers’ DIY vibe adds a certain rawness that can be difficult to find nowadays. Their runway shows reflect this sentiment perfectly, from the unconventional models to the not-so-glamorous settings (for example, the SS19 show was held at the top floor of a metal factory in Bushwick, a far subway ride away from most NYFW shows). Such choices would feel gimmicky for other brands, but the clothes prove that Eckhaus Latta is not a fleeting trend, but rather the beginning of an empire. The brand’s use of unexpected fabrics and the way it plays with textures and silhouettes takes staple pieces and transforms into wearable works of art.

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Eckhaus Latta already has a number of achievements under their belt. Not only were they one of nine finalists for the 2018 LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers, but they also opened their show Possessed at the Whitney Museum, making them the subject of the first fashion-related exhibit for the museum in 21 years.

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Eckhaus Latta has over 44 stockists, including Nordstrom, Ssense, and Opening Ceremony, and their increasing popularity will certainly lead to more. You can check out their Instagram at @eckhaus_latta.

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Crazy Rich Asians: A Step Forward for Asian-American Communities

In light of the upcoming romantic comedy movie, Crazy Rich Asians, based on Kevin Kwan's best selling novel by the same name, it is important to recognize the significance of this major studio film especially for Asian American communities.

Crazy Rich Asians follows the over-the-top lives of several elite families living in Singapore, all set to attend wealthy starlets Colin Khoo and Araminta Lee’s “wedding of the year.” We also follow the relationship of Rachel Chu, a Chinese-American economics professor from California and Nicholas Young, a Singaporean-British history professor who comes from a lineage of incredibly rich Singaporeans.

In this narrative, Asian and Asian-American characters don't occupy the supporting character roles that typically accompany a white cast’s agenda—they are the very center of the storyline. Moreover, we see Crazy Rich Asians deconstruct common stereotypes about Asians-Americans by critiquing Western society's misconceptions about Asians and Asian culture through the lens of unique and multi-faceted characters.

The Crazy Rich Asians trilogy; image via

The Crazy Rich Asians trilogy; image via

With the novel’s fun, hilarious storyline set to translate onto the big screen, the movie has great potential in finally representing Asian-American communities in respectable and authentic ways. Here is movie that presents Asian men as attractive and desirable, that doesn’t over-sexualize Asian women and that validates Asian-American identities.

The fight for Asian-American representation in the movie industry has been going on for too long. Huffington Post reported that, “research on diversity in Hollywood found that barely more than 3 percent of film roles in 2016 went to Asian actors. In contrast, more than 78 percent went to white actors.” In this movie, the majority of the cast is Asian—many of whom represent various East Asian identities and cultures.

This movie is a step forward in finally showing just how beautiful and unique the many facets of Asian cultures are. To portray complex backgrounds that actually resonate with various East Asian groups is not only empowering, but revolutionary especially in light of conversations about race and identity and how we reconcile the two in a world that prioritizes white stories and agendas. Needless to say, this movie is important.

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The 2018 Met Gala: Where Celebrity Meets Heavenly Bodies

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Every May, the Met Gala marks the penultimate fashion event of the year as celebrities and leaders in the fashion industry flock to the Met's red carpeted stairs. This year, Andrew Bolton, the Met's Costume Institute curator in charge of visualizing and planning the annual show, found inspiration in Catholicism and the many influences it has asserted on fashion and materialism from the medieval era to contemporary brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Chanel, Versace, Dior and more. 

“Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination" opened on May 10th, marked by the much-celebrated Met Gala and will run until October 8th. Co-hosts for the Gala include Anna Wintour, joined by Rihanna, Amal Clooney and Donatella Versace.

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Interestingly, a majority of the designers featured in the show are from Catholic backgrounds. The influences of their religious upbringings in their later creative visions manifest in an array of compelling designs and theorizations about religion and materiality. In the pieces selected for the show, inspiration is drawn from Catholic doctrines, imagery, metaphor and narrative that spans history and moral spectrums. Purity and chastity meet with eroticism, sensuality and carnality. Spirituality stands alongside idolatry and materialism, monarchy with school uniforms and monastic garb.

“... what struck me is how religion—Catholicism in particular—has really shaped the mind of these designers with a richness of imagery, a storytelling tradition, and seeing the world through metaphor. I hope, no matter what your faith, this will cause you to reflect on whether your religion has had an influence on your creative development.”
— Andrew Bolton to Vogue.com

For a more in-depth discussion of "Heavenly Bodies" and the influences of Catholicism in fashion, public imagination and American society, refer to the following article by Maureen Dowd for Vogue.com.

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From Disney Starlet to Hollywood's Newest Triple Threat

At just the tender age of 20, Zendaya has already managed to snag a handful of life and career defining milestones. From establishing herself as a powerful voice for the millennial generation on everything from feminist issues to prejudice and the realities of race in America, to launching her own highly coveted fashion line, and securing her status as a beauty icon that defies traditional norms and expectations, the starlet's continued success is well earned, to say the least.

The list of Zendaya's countless accolades and accomplishments goes on, but she also has her own Barbie doll, modeled after her iconic Oscars look, and stars in the Disney Channel hit K.C. Undercover, one of the few programs the network has ever run that stars a biracial lead actress and features a black family.

Zendaya's latest claim to fame? Fronting the cover of American Vogue to discuss everything from her humble childhood, her meteoric rise to fame, her first love, her latest movie (Spider-Man: Homecoming), and her strategic next moves as a burgeoning music artist and Hollywood star making her first forays into the film industry. Click here to read Zendaya's introspective cover feature and check out the gallery below for some of the stunning stills from her Vogue photoshoot. 

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Oscars 2017 Best Dressed

Oscars Best Picture announcements gone awry aside, the stars came out in full force last night, with La La Land (Best Actress, Best Director, Best Song, Best Score, Best Cinematography) and Moonlight (Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor, Best Adapted Screenplay) going home with some of the biggest awards of the night.

While most played it safe on the red carpet, an array of shimmery gold, soft white and velvety black numbers were gracefully donned by some of the biggest stars of the night, from Best Actress winner Emma Stone's resplendent Givenchy number, to Taraji P. Henson and Karlie Kloss' classic looks, which channeled a certain air of Old Hollywood glamour. 

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Golden Globes Highlights

The stars were aligned earlier this week for members of the La La Land, Atlanta and The People v O.J. Simpson casts, who all won big Sunday night. Compiled below are several of our favorite moments from the show, from ethereal ball downs that paid homage to the city of stars, to host Jimmy Fallon's clever opening montage and Meryl Streep's potent speech about the importance of activism and artistry. 

Most red carpet goers opted for monochrome or pastel looks, with sparing accessories and pared down makeup that lended the whole night a more classic, old-Hollywood feel. Stand outs include nominees Evan Rachel Wood of Westworld and Loving's Ruth Negga, who ventured into more ambitious territory with a sleek tuxedo suit and silvery, sequined gown. Best Actress winner Emma Stone, however, stole the show with her beautiful, constellated gown by Valentino.

All images above via Vogue.com

In addition to the long overdue recognition of many minority filmmakers and actors, especially with Moonlight's win for Best Drama, Meryl Streep's timely and moving acceptance speech for her lifetime achievement award served as the night's unifying call to action. 

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A Year in Review: Culture, Fashion & the Arts

2016 was a standout year on various fronts, from political races and celebrity deaths that left us reeling to counter cultural movements across fashion and the arts that reflected our disenchantment with the current state of affairs. Included below are several of the highlights and low points across the fashion, beauty, arts and entertainment industries from this past year. 

January

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David Bowie's death left many saddened at the loss of such an unparalleled talent. Beyond his iconic status in the world of music and fashion, Bowie's nuanced portrayal and discussion of his own sexuality and spirituality proved inspiring to many; "that’s who he was to all of us. He was a piece of bright pleated silk we could stretch out or fold up small inside ourselves when we needed to" (Lorde). 

February

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The Oscars fell under scrutiny for the blatant lack of diversity in its nominations across various categories. #Oscarssowhite outrage sparked a series of important debates about diversity in the film industry, shedding light on the lack of recognition and opportunity afforded to non-white actors and directors. These discussions seemed to have generated tangible results, however. The BAFTAs recently announced that starting in 2019, "movies will only qualify to be nominated for two of the most coveted awards if they meet specific diversity standards" (Refinery29). 

March

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Anticipation for Game of Throne's sixth season reaches a fever pitch. The ensuing season does not fail to disappoint with its endless plot twists, untimely deaths and cinematically epic battle scenes. The show goes on to the sweep the Emmys yet again. Keep a look out for season seven, airing spring of 2017.  

April

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Many lost another hero following the announcement of Prince's sudden death. Countless accolades and achievements in music aside, to many, the musician represented hope and acceptance, regardless of race, gender, sexuality or upbringing. His credo of love and tolerance is important to keep in mind as we face political uncertainty in the coming years.

May

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Beyoncé Lemonade craze hits full force following its surprise release, a string of successful single drops, a stint at the Super Bowl, performances at the BETs and MTV award shows and endless discussions about who Becky with the good hair could be. Queen Bey goes on to sell out her entire Formation World Tour, grossing $256 million worldwide. 

June

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Lin Manuel Miranda moved many to tears with his emotionally honest acceptance speech/sonnet at the Tony Awards this summer, reminding all of us that amidst a year of political turmoil, humanitarian crises, violence and injustice that "love is love is love is love is love is love is love is love, cannot be killed or swept aside... now fill the world with music, love, and pride.”

July

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After a series of creative director shakeups at a handful of major fashion labels, Maria Grazia Chiuri was appointed Dior's first female creative director. Chiuri has taken the historical precedence of her role to heart; her debut collection for Dior had a decidedly feminist message, with bold statement looks and slogans emblazoned across t-shirts and dresses that underscored her commitment to empowering women. 

August

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Sports arguably served as our saving grace this year, with athletes from all corners of the globe donning medals emblematic of hope and human achievement at the highest of levels. Ryan Lochte drama aside, the Olympics were an important reminder of the meaning of good sportsmanship at an international level.

September

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Kendall Jenner snags the cover of US Vogue's September issue, eliciting mixed responses from fashion world leaders and readers alike. Controversy aside, Jenner's rapid ascent into the upper echelons of the industry has solidified her status as a major force in the fashion world and beyond, alongside fellow social media born talents such as Gigi and Bella Hadid, Hailey Baldwin, Cara Delevingne and Emily Ratajkowski. 

October

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High school senior James Charles is announced CoverGirl's latest ambassador and first ever cover boy. Charles' contract with the makeup behemoth is an important step towards diversifying the beauty industry. CoverGirl made headlines a second time after appointing fellow YouTube star Nura Afia as the company's first Hijab-wearing brand ambassador. View Charles' YouTube channel here and Afia's here. 

November

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To say supermodel and body activist Ashley Graham had a breakthrough year is an understatement. From hosting her own TEDxtalk, to landing the cover of Sports Illustrated and starring in DNCE's latest music video, Graham shows no signs of stopping her star trajectory. She also received her own Barbie doll, raising further awareness for body positivity. "This past year, along with creating dolls modeled after Beyoncé, Zendaya, and Ava DuVernay to add greater racial range, Barbie also released three new body types: curvy, petite, and tall in seven skin tones" (Forbes). 

December

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The fashion world bid farewell to Franca Sozzani, the revolutionary creative genius behind Italian Vogue. The editor-in-chief was renowned for her rebellious take on fashion and ready embrace of diversity in an industry infamous for its narrow perception of beauty. Most recently, she was the subject of her son's film Franca: Chaos & Creation, an intimate portrait of a woman fearless and endlessly forward thinking in her vision for Italian Vogue and the fashion world writ large. Read Anna Wintour's reflection on the iconic fashion figure here. Watch her son's full documentary here.

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