For Hot Takes on All Things Fashion, Follow Haute La Mode

Fashion is super intimidating. From the seemingly infinite brand names, influencers, designers, and models (not to mention the endless and ever-changing stream of trends and seasons), it can definitely be hard to keep up with all the buzz… especially as a UChicago student.

Enter Luke Meagher, a self proclaimed “fashion commentur and meme queen,” who runs Youtube channel Haute La Mode. His channel currently boasts 118,000 subscribers, making him a definite contender for the next big YouTube star.

i don't even know what it looks like but i somehow know i hate it

5,739 Likes, 128 Comments - Luke Meagher (@hautelemode) on Instagram: "i don't even know what it looks like but i somehow know i hate it"

Luke covers and reviews fashion brands and the industry as a whole in order to make events and happenings more digestible for the average viewer. He has uploaded videos discussing award show fashion looks and seasonal fashion shows from large, beloved fashion houses such as Louis Vuitton and Balenciaga (to more recently controversial brands like Dolce and Gabbana) Some of his latest videos feature Harry Style’s Gucci campaign, the Celine Spring 2019 show, and fashion reviews of other popular Youtube stars such as Emma Chamberlin, James Charles, and Jeffree Star. He also runs an Instagram and Twitter account by the same name, posting daily fashion memes and satirical commentary.

So whether you are a fashion queen or merely someone who’s looking to keep up with the latest the fashion world has to offer, Haute La Mode is definitely a channel worth subscribing to. In the mean time, check out our own recap of all Fashion Month had to offer.

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How Tati Disappointed Her Following

If you're not big into YouTube beauty bloggers, you may have never heard of Tati Westbrook. But if you had, you know that the mother of makeup reviews is known for her honest reviews and exciting weekly uploads.

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The much anticipated launch of Tati Westbrook's brand in the beginning of March was met with a less than anti-climactic release of not makeup, not skincare, but vitamins.

That's right... vitamins.

Of course, many of her followers remained optimistic about the slightly expensive vitamins. On the other hand, anxious and excited groups were utterly shocked that Tati was releasing what seemed to be another gimmicky SugarBearHair type of product.

The majority of the disappointed reactions were rooted in uncertainty about the actual effect of the vitamins. The product is not FDA approved - though the lab they are produced in meet FDA regulations - and have no solid evidence that confirm their actual benefits. Tati repeatedly claims that it clinically proven that this vitamin works... but what does that even mean?

Here are some claims of the beneficial results of the vitamins.

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My personal reaction was that of confusion, especially considering that if I wanted stronger nails, better skin, and longer hair, I would just let Mother Time take over as I pretend that water is the all-kill silver bullet for all my problems. Personally, I think $39.95 for a month for vitamins seems a little off, even for me, who loves to binge on lots of unnecessary beauty products. You can buy a high-quality foundation and several concealers for the same price, but maybe I should move away from associating Tati with just makeup.

Especially in this age where people are skeptical of gimmicky products, a person who has established a reputation of being truthful and reliable is taking a huge risk when releasing a product that could easily be looped into that family of strange vitamins with large claims and little effect. I hope to see something else from Tati. I was genuinely excited for her launch, but this simply wasn't it.

I'll give it to Tati, though. The packaging is pretty and I'm sure that the longer her brand is around, she will more than likely release amazing products. It's an incredibly inclusive brand so far for those that may encounter ingredient barriers; the vitamins are sugar, soy, preservative, paraben, and gluten free! It's also vegan.

Some unexpected effects, however, began to emerge as people scoured the ingredients and potential side effects. If you're on birth control, maybe be wary about choosing to use this product, since it contains palmetto, which can reduce the efficacy of birth control pills.

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Feeds to Follow: CatCreature

For thrift hauls, beauty looks, daily vlogs with dreamy edits and glimpses into the life of an art student at RISD, be sure to follow multi-media artist and vlogger Annabelle ("Cat Creature") on her YouTube and Instagram accounts.

at long last a sunny day 🌞 // new video went up earlier btw, link in bio :^)

10k Likes, 73 Comments - c a t c r e a t u r e (@pyperbleu) on Instagram: "at long last a sunny day 🌞 // new video went up earlier btw, link in bio :^)"

yoze might

6,753 Likes, 40 Comments - c a t c r e a t u r e (@pyperbleu) on Instagram: "yoze might"

Whether she's visiting friends in New York or Boston, going home to California for the weekend or showing us around her favorite spots in Rhode Island, Annabelle's feed and vlogs are filled with her quirky sense of humor and enviable sense of style. Check out her YouTube account for honest beauty reviews and tutorials, DIY tips and fun travel vlogs. 

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You Are "Good Enough"

YouTube has revolutionized the modern creator. No longer is the norm to stardom and international fame through the traditional means of auditions and mainstream Hollywood, but through a webcam and thousands of "subscribers" that check into a digital platform weekly. This innovative and personal relationship between the creator and subscriber has launched many careers, including vlogger and viner Nathan Zed. Known for satirizing celebrities and pop culture, Nathan has accumulated over 450,000 subscribers over the past six years. 

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Many YouTubers extend their brand beyond their YouTube personality and try to extend into other entrepreneurial fields such as movies, music, sponsorships, and most popular: merchandise. Nathan Zed is no different, and encouraged by the need to uplift those who feel they are not good enough at anything. Detailed in one of his most well-received videos, he discusses the need to compare yourself to others and feel immeasurable and wants to turn this concept on its. Continuing this, he created another video discussing his merchandise line named "GOOD ENOUGH" in the hopes of making himself, and in turn others, feel good. Promoting mental health awareness, especially in a community of color, Zed chooses to feature a diverse group of models and fans to showcase his line of clothing and remind everyone that they don't need to prove their worth to anyone. From Kehlani to John Green, his clothes have become a trademark and reminds everyone that they are good enough.

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Coming in short sleeve, polo hat, and decal, he spreads his hope of positivity and self-love to the world. Click here to check out his merchandise and here to check out his YouTube channel.

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Youtubers to Watch: Caitlin Shoemaker

Welcome to our series: Youtubers to Watch. In this section we will introduce you to our favorite Youtube channels. We hope these channels will be a fun addition to your study breaks and summer internet scrolling!

While moving off campus means fun, friends, more freedom, and a cozier living space, it also adds many more responsibilities to your life. If you are an amateur chef looking for healthy, budget friendly and versatile recipes, Caitlin's cooking and lifestyle channel will become your go-to-source of inspiration!

As a medical student herself, Caitlin also doesn't have much time and resources to cook. However I love her suggestions and recipes–which always end up in both delicious and aesthetically beautiful meals. Ranging from nutritious oatmeal variations to creative salads, chilis and many more samples from international cuisines, her videos promise to give you many ideas to stick to a healthy diet and impress your friends. Her clear explanations make it super easy to follow her steps and allow you to customize her recipes according to your own personal preferences.

Even if you are not vegan, you might want to try her vegan recipes, which look and taste amazing. My favorites include Cheesy Vegan Breakfast Pizza made with Homemade Smoky Tempeh Bacon, Savory Mango & Chipotle Quinoa Buddha Bowl, Sweet Potato, Red Lentil, and Peanut Stew.

Bon appetit!

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Youtubers to Watch: The Bucket List Family

Welcome to our new series: Youtubers to Watch. In this section we will introduce you to our favorite Youtube channels. We hope these channels will be a fun addition to your study breaks and summer internet scrolling!

I discovered this incredibly cute family one day when I was feeling very down, but the adventures of Manila, Dorothy, Jessica and Garrett were all I needed to cheer myself up. After binge watching all their videos, I couldn't stop smiling for a long long time. This young family sold everything they owned, including their home in Utah to start their travels around the world! 

They have seen approximately 40 countries for now, have had 70+ flights and they get a brand new home every single week in another country! Even though they are all such inspiring souls, Dorothy (who is four) and Manila (who is almost two) are definitely my two favorite fearless travelers! Their videos show their adventures across the globe from airplane rides to diving and surfing videos in the most beautiful locations around the world.

I hope you'll be inspired by this incredible family as much as I was. We wish them the best of luck and happiness in the world! 

You can read their story and the amazing philanthropy projects they pursue on their website.

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