Influencing is Ideally Inauthentic

Authenticity is becoming an increasingly prized attribute for influencers. As influencers become more successful and partner with more brands, their sense of authenticity seems to plummet. Fan followings are fickle, so brands search for micro-influencers with less 100,000 followers, in the hopes that their personal pull on consumers will be stronger.

I was struck with disbelief by YouTuber Keaton Milburn’s video “THE REALITY OF BEING AN INSTAGRAM INFLUENCER | TIPS & TRICKS,” in which she straightforwardly describes the process behind her Instagram photos that felt so inauthentic to me. She and her friends, who are also influencers, bring a variety of outfits to a photoshoot session and change clothes between takes in to have a new outfit pic to post every day. She states that even though it is always warm where she lives in Arizona, during the fall she will post pictures of warmer clothing to match the seasons her viewers are experiencing. She and her friends joke about how they would not wear certain outfits “in real life,” but how they look good for the ‘Gram. I felt a strong tingling of the surreal: for a platform that craves authenticity, why would this YouTuber reveal the construction of her image so casually?

Image via YouTube

I am drawn to the Keaton Milburn channel because it allows me to find a cooler version of myself. Her channel allows me to peer into the life of another college-aged young woman in a sorority, but while I’m Asian and nerdy, she is white, (dyed) blonde, and skilled with makeup. Casually watching her routine videos as I did my routines allowed me to imagine for a while that I, too, fit in perfectly with the image of a collegiate “sorority girl” without every worrying about my identity. Her videos motivate me to apply makeup or get me excited for girls’ trips when I’m feeling down.

In studies on the psychology of videogame avatars, Dr. Jesse Fox of Ohio State University found that the avatars people create are idealized versions of themselves. Keaton is my virtual avatar: an excited young woman navigating college with tickets to Coachella but without crises, like myself but a little more certain. Looking at influencers allows us to forget the difficulties we go through and indulge in a life just outside of our reaches, but in order to do so, they must erase the painful parts and emphasize the good. Influencing is inherently inauthentic. It is a job in which a person must depict an idealized life, but whereas that niche had been filled by modeling and acting, influencing takes it to another level of emotional sanitization.

Influencers use a platform that was originally personal in order to sell an image or lifestyle. To cultivate the fantasy for everyone who is interested in that lifestyle, they must curate an extreme, idealized representation of that lifestyle. In the same way that fashion spreads depict scenes and models that correspond not to customers’ realities but to ideals like glamor and elegance, influencing is about creating an idealized space for fantasy to take place. Whereas high fashion makes its sales with exclusivity, influencers make sales based on inclusivity. The tension lies in maintaining that image at all times. Many vegan influencers are breaking down, unable to maintain the strong agendas they push. To become an ideal is a huge burden for a human being to bear, but influencers are supposed to live our ideal lifestyle, so every aspect of their online worlds must work for that image. The paradox of influencing is that its inherent inauthenticity, balanced correctly, sells what we crave. For me, Keaton’s admittance of the construction of her image pushed the boundaries of this tension to their breaking point.

Featured image via 

Chicago Summer '19 Music Festival Roundup

Classes are over in a month, rejoice! What better way is there to ring in summer break than splurging on music festival tickets? A fixture of the Chicago summer calendar, music festival season draws in countless acts across all manner of genres. Into EDM and/or Country? Or maybe you’re a devoted fan of Chicago Blues? You’re bound to find something you like either way. Keep scrolling for some of the major festivals coming to town this summer.

Spring Awakening

June 7-9, Poplar Creek

If you’re looking for non-stop EDM to get you through the end of the quarter (yike), Spring Awakening has everything from small house acts to top 40 regulars like Zedd, Galantis and DJ Snake. Get your tickets here.

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Chicago Blues Festival

June 7-9, Millennium Park

Chicago has long-been a haven for Blues artists, and this annual festival is a fixture in the city’s music scene. The full 2019 schedule has yet to be announced, but admission is free and previous lineups included locally and nationally acclaimed artists such as Corey Dennison Band, Mississippi Heat with Billy Flynn and Giles Corey, Selwyn Birchwood and Mavis Staples.

Country LakeShake

June 21-23, Huntington Bank Pavilion

LakeShake is celebrating five years in business this summer with major Country music headliners Miranda Lambert, Maren Morris, Lauren Alaina, Keith Urban, Brett Young, Luke Bryan and more. Get tickets here.

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Ruido Fest

June 21-23, Union Park

Lovers of Latin music should swing by Ruido Fest for performances by Los Tigres Del Norte, Hombres G and Enanitos Verdes, among others. Offering over a dozen food vendors, swing by for an incredible culinary experience as well. Get your tickets here.

Windy City Smokeout

July 12-14, United Center

Windy City Smokeout is an annual mecca for fans of country music, BBQ and craft beer. Headliners this year include Chris Young, Old Dominion and Cole Swindell. Get your tickets here.

Pitchfork

July 19-21, Union Park

Swing by Pitchfork if you’re looking for something low-key and you’re not trying to break the bank at Lolla. Typically drawing acts from the R&B, Hip Hop and Indie world, Pitchfork also boasts a great arts and crafts market where you can peruse band posters designed by local artists, vintage clothing, vinyls and more. Headliners this year include HAIM, Mavis Staples, The Isley Brothers, Belle & Sebastian, Robyn and Charli XCX. Get tickets here.

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Lollapalooza

August 1-4, Grant Park

The crown jewel of Chicago’s music festival scene, Lolla is hard to miss. This year’s lineup includes appearances from Coachella headliners Ariana Grande, Childish Gambino and Tame Impala, in addition to Twenty One Pilots, The Strokes, Flume, The Chainsmokers and J Balvin. Keep scrolling through the lineup and you’re bound to end up out of breath. Get tickets here.

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North Coast Music Festival

August 30-September 1, Northerly Island

The perfect way to wrap up a Chicago summer, North Coast offers an array of musical acts that span musical genres and conventions. Past lineups have included Miguel, DJ Snake, Jamiroquai, Odesza, Bassnectar and Vulfpeck. Stayed tuned for more updates.

Chicago Jazz Festival

August 23-September 1

Hosted at the Chicago Cultural Center, Millennium Park and other venues around town, the weeklong Chicago Jazz Fest lineup features Dianne Reeves, Ramsey Lewis, Obert Davis and Kurt Elling among an impressive roster of musicians and ensembles and admission is free! Read more about the event here.

Riot Fest

September 13-15, Douglas Park

Specializing in punk, rock, alternative, metal, and hip-hop acts, Riot Fest also features carnival rides and exciting sideshow performers. Presale tickets are available now and the lineup is soon to be announced. Last year’s headliners included Weezer, Beck, Young the Giant, Run the Jewels and Incubus.

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Feature image via.

MODA Blog Favorites: April 2019

After the end of a grueling month of p-sets, essays, and juggling who knows how many other responsibilities and obligations, MODA Blog brings you a refreshing list of favorites from our bloggers and photographers to fill you with inspiration and energy for the next month.

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Olivia

¿Téo?

¿Téo? (Mateo Arias) dropped his freshman namesake album last year and it provides the perfect backdrop to any summer/spring themed playlist. “Thru My Hair,” “Part of Me” and “Belong in the Sun” (feat. Lido) are personal favorites and seamlessly showcase the artist’s trademark medley of Bossa-Nova, Hip-Hop and Alternative genres. “Uno Dos” featuring frequent collaborator and friend Jaden Smith is also a bop. Listen to him on Spotify or Soundcloud.

Knee Deep Vintage

Located right next door to Pilsen favorite Dusek’s, Knee Deep Vintage is your new all stop shop for anything from authentic Japanese kimonos to perfectly worn-in camp t-shirts, vintage Levis and amazing 70s era summer frocks. The owners update inventory daily, so you’re bound to find something new and exciting every time. If you’re still in the mood for great finds, continue down 18th St. for Shady Rest Vintage and Vinyl, Very Best Vintage and Pilsen Vintage.

NOMO

Looking to spice up your Instagram feed or save money on Polaroid film? Download NOMO (free on the App Store last time I checked) and start capturing Polaroid-worthy moments instantly. NOMO frames all of your photos with an authentic looking white border and even washes everyone’s features out just like the real thing! For added fidelity, you can shake your phone to make the photo “develop” faster. Once it’s finished, the photo saves automatically to your camera roll. What’s not to love??

Images via here, here and here

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Andrew

Dedicated

Carly Rae Jepsen is back! I’ve always loved Carly’s poppy dance beats but I think what we’re starting to see in the songs she’s released off of her new album, Dedicated, is that she’s become quite the skilled lyricist as well. This is kind of a fake favorite since the album hasn’t officially dropped yet, but CRJ is being very very cheeky and dropping individual songs off the album for our listening pleasure and let me just say, I am OBSESSED with every single she’s dropped. She’s released four as of now, and I would be completely happy if the album was just the four, they have that signature uplifting, light beat with a really joyful vibe that I adore from Carly. I can’t wait to here the rest when the album drops on May 17th.

Anastasia Beverly Hills DipBrow Gel

When it comes to makeup, I try to keep my routine as quick and efficient as possible, and now that it’s spring, I really don’t want to layer too much product on to my face. I found that recently, my main priority has just been making sure that my brows are all filled in before leaving the house, and thankfully, ABH’s DIPBROW gel has been a big hit in my routine. I definitely like a more natural looking brow that doesn’t have a very harsh arch or angular shape, so I find myself being a little bit more light-handed and sparing with the product. I think brow gel is probably the most efficient way to elevate a natural makeup look, so it’s perfect if you’re really on-the-go or if you’re just getting into makeup like me.

Fruits Basket Reboot

It might sound nerdy, but one of the things that got me really interested in fashion when I was a kid was actually anime. Both realms really take into account the formulation of characters through visual signs, and often make commentary on the world around us through implicit visual details. One of the first animes I ever watched was Akitaro Daichi’s anime rendition of the popular Shoujo manga, Fruits Basket. It’s a bit of a strange series that combines slice of life with Chinese mythology, but I remember thinking it was both hilarious and captivating as a child. Recently, Funimation announced a reboot of the popular series and it does not disappoint. It’s the same kind of childlike humour, but with something almost nostalgic about it. I definitely think the reboot appeals to fans of the original show, while still being fresh and relevant for a new, modern audience. I can’t wait to see how the show unfolds.

Images via here, here and here

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Joseph

Love + Fear

MARINA finally released both halves pf her fourth album this month and it is definitely worth your time. You can read my review for “Love” here. The follow-up review for “Fear” is on the MODA blog as well, so check it out!

Special

This new Netflix mini-series follows a gay twenty-something with Cerebral Palsy navigating social and work-life in LA. It is only seven fifteen- minute episodes so you can watch the entire thing in about two-hours, and it is quite funny. The editor of the blog the main character works at is named Olivia so definitely some MODA parallels…

Steamworld Quest

I got this game on a Thursday, and literally couldn’t put it down until I beat the campaign that Sunday. It is an RPG from the studio Image and Form who are famous for their steampunk aesthetic games. They somehow managed to make a game about medieval steampunk robots and the writing+characters are incredibly well done. The combat is actually a card game which is an interesting spin on traditional turn-based RPGs, and it is for sure worth your time.

Images via here, here and here

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Feature image collage photos via.

Modelland: Another Bogus Attempt to Democratize the Fashion World

Supermodel/businesswoman/TV host Tyra Banks announced the creation of a model themed amusement park called Modelland in February, slated to open in the Santa Monica Place shopping plaza late in 2019. The park gets its name from Banks’ young adult novel of the same name, in which tokenized misfits (overweight, short, and albino) go to Modelland boarding school in order to become models, gain superpowers and escape evil forces… or something. Reading the summary alone made me confused, and the book has understandably been slammed as terribly convoluted and, in my favorite review, '“a befuddling mess of dreckitude.” Modelland is meant to follow the mission of the book by Disneyland-ifying modeling for regular folks. What the park will entail is a mystery, as the website contains nothing but a logo, “Coming Soon” and “Step Into Your Light.” So what does it really mean to “bring modeling to the masses” as Banks claims Modelland is sure to do?

Fashion Café’s supermodel owners. Image via

This isn’t the first model headed business venture based on selling the model image. 1995 saw the opening of theme restaurant Fashion Café, owned and endorsed by titans Naomi Campbell, Elle Macpherson, Claudia Schiffer, and Christy Turlington. Picture the Hard Rock Café/Planet Hollywood, but make it fashion, complete with a red carpeted entrance, iconic pieces like one of Madonna’s tour bustiers, and a gift shop with both Fashion Café branded merchandise and actual designer clothes.

The gift shop is analogous to the venture’s fatal flaw. Fashion Café tried to straddle the line between demographics that couldn’t be more different - tourists and the fashion elite. Average Joe and Jane (picture the stereotypical Middle American tourist: fanny pack, bucket hat, I Heart NY shirt, face perpetually hidden by a camera) were to be convinced they were stepping into a higher social strata than they could ever normally achieve simply by paying an exorbitant amount for “Naomi’s Fish and Chips.” The glitz and glam and signs that literally say FASHION (in case you didn’t get the theme) were to serve as evidence that the fashion elite would ever be caught dead at such a gaudy establishment, eating greasy diner food. Co-founder Tommaso Buti said it all upon the café’s opening, explaining "With something like this, you cannot go too deeply into fashion. The public is not that educated and not that interested. They want to see more the glamour and the entertainment of fashion."

Maybe I’m a cynic, but a major part of fashion’s allure for everyday people is its unattainable image. Supermodels are lauded as queens and goddesses because they represent an elevated version of the mundane. For the majority of the American population, the runway represents a kind of stairway to a heaven that they could never buy their way into. Models are the women that have strutted their way up. Banks claims Modelland is intended to help everyday people to “be the dream version of themselves”, but - disregarding the sheer falsity of that statement, as if acting as a model in a ticketed theme park is changing someone’s life - how can that dream be delivered, barring diets and plastic surgery? The sad truth is that most people don’t want to see themselves on the runway, they want that “dream version” that the media and the fashion world has told them exemplifies beauty. Part of fashion is gatekeeping, par for the course for an industry built on subjective art and rampant materialism. The magic is in the fantasy.

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I loved America’s Next Top Model’s inspirational premise, modeling challenges and reality TV drama. I also know that at its core it was just a TV show, and out of its 24 seasons very few from its roster of (almost entirely traditionally attractive) winners have broken into the industry in any substantial ways, putting many question marks behind Banks’ repeated declaration on the show that ANTM has “changed the definition of beauty.” But the only fault I can attribute to the show itself is its insistence that it has truly diversified modeling. It is simply an appendage of a static and dream fueled industry that if deconstructed would fall apart.

This isn’t to demonize the modeling industry, which I personally find to be a fascinating portion of pop culture. The 90’s supermodel boom is one of my favorite phenomenons. It is important to not let our desires for widened beauty standards and equality cloud the reality of a cutthroat industry that is literally based on selectivity. Beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, but as a culture there are certain glamazons we want to look up to. And after all, isn’t aspiration and continuous wanting the American way?

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Feature image via from The Devil Wears Prada (2006).

TIME's Most Influential People of 2019 Excludes Music's Most Influential Genre

TIME Magazine’s annual list of most influential people has been on the tip of the cultural zeitgeist for 20 years, with this year’s artist inductees including Ariana Grande, BTS and Khalid. While many other publications have resisted hip-hop’s ascendance to its status as the biggest music phenomenon in the country, over the years TIME has consistently acknowledged the influence of the genre’s biggest pioneers like Jay-Z, Kanye West, OutKast and Kendrick Lamar. Last year, Cardi B made the list. However, according to TIME, such influence has come to a halt in 2019 as not one figure in the hip-hop industry graced this year’s list.

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The snubs are only amplified by the way TIME seemed to tiptoe all around hip hop and inadvertently acknowledge its influence with the other artists listed this year. BTS’s style, dance and flow all lift from hip-hop culture. Not knowing much about the culture, the group was even tutored by rap icons like Coolio and Warren G on a reality show called BTS American Hustle Life. Ariana Grande has long been the subject of debate over how much of her genre bending music crosses into exploitation. Both have been accused of the appropriation of black culture, making the absence of artists that contribute to the cultures they both benefit from that much more significant.

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Hip-hop’s influence stretches far beyond music, with artists spearheading awareness and initiatives for various issues like police brutality, prison reform, and immigration. Hip-hop artists are entrepreneurs, fashion icons and have permanently changed pop culture. So why the sudden hesitance? Since the release of the last 100 Most Influential list in April of 2018, the genre has continued to dominate pop culture. Meek Mill’s release from prison and subsequent evolution to social justice warrior, Kanye’s continuous controversy and the release of Ye, Jay-Z and Beyonce’s joint album as well as Beychella (!) are a few of the many events that shaped this year’s cultural landscape.

I guess getting hip-hop back on TIME’s radar is yet another thing to keep our fingers crossed for in 2020.

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Feature image via.

Feeds to Follow: @fruitassembly

Gone are the days of conventional still life paintings of fruit displays. Instagram account @fruitassembly takes traditional compositions and turns it on its head. Think of the typical editorial photoshoot: exquisite backdrops, props, fine jewelry. All of the elements are present, but the model is fruit instead of a person.

It is no wonder why so many people are intrigued by the aesthetically-pleasing fruit displays, garnering the account a following of 24.8k (and rising) on Instagram. There is something oddly satisfying about fruit displayed against purposefully crumpled silk sheets or colorful paper backdrops. With at least one picture posted every day, @fruitassembly is brings added meaning to getting your daily serving of fruit. Enjoy!

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All images taken via.

MODA Blog Favorites: March 2019

After the end of a grueling month of p-sets, essays, and juggling who knows how many other responsibilities and obligations, MODA Blog brings you a refreshing list of favorites from our bloggers and photographers to fill you with inspiration and energy for the next month.

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Michelle

Catbird

As a fan of minimalist jewelry, I was so excited to stumble upon Catbird, a woman owned and operated company that uses only ethically sourced diamonds. Their jewelry, ranging from stackable midi rings to sparkling diamond necklaces, is so delicate and timeless. Additionally, Catbird has a wide range of prices in order to ensure that everyone can afford their quality pieces.

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Maison Cléo

Although I am quite wary of many Instagram shops that push out products produced in a fast-fashion model and that are often low quality despite their high price points, Maison Cléo has proven to be a shop that is worth the extra dollars. The French mother and daughter owned shop produces timeless pieces that are made-to-order to ensure that there is never a waste of fabric. Maison Cléo is known for their sheer wrap tops such as the one pictured. The online shop only opens on Wednesdays and closes when all of the pieces sell out, so if you are interested, be sure to set a reminder!

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Embryolisse Lait Crème

As a native Arizonan, the winters here are pretty harsh on my skin. Although spring is rapidly approaching, I need to give a shout-out to the moisturizer that has left my skin supple and soft despite the harsh winds and arid weather. Embryolisse Lait Crème is a thick cream that has provided my skin with moisture without making my skin look too oily. Even when the weather becomes warmer, I will still keep this moisturizer on my vanity for times when my skin needs some extra hydration.

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Natasha Denona Mini Sunset Palette

As someone who almost exclusively uses orange and peachy tones on my eyes, the Natasha Denona Mini Sunset palette provides me with all of the colors that I need to create a full look without breaking the bank. At only $25, the mini palette features two shimmery metallics, one foiled, and two matte shades. Until I can afford to drop $129 on the full palette, I will be content using this one.

Image via.

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Joseph

Us

By far the best movie I’ve seen this year, Jordan Peele’s follow up to the 2017 hit Get Out shows that horror is not a genre to be taken lightly. Us is poignant, thought-provoking and terrifying in all the best ways as well as being beautiful. Also, Lupita Nyong’o, one of my favourite actresses, gives arguably the best performance of her career playing both the main character and main villain. She is breathtaking and I’m looking forward to her Oscar win for Best Actress next year!

Leon

Swedish pop-vocalist Leon released her first album this month, and frankly, it is amazing. Her lowkey yet emotional ballads paired with some catchy bops were a pleasure to listen to this month, and if you have never heard of her, go stream Falling immediately. I’ve already got tickets for her Chicago concert and I’m beyond excited.

Plastic Outerwear

Do you have great t-shirts that you love to wear, but always get hidden when it isn’t t-shirt weather? Look no further than fully transparent outerwear. Clear hoodies and jackets are both incredibly on-trend and practical, being both water resistant and letting you show off some of your wardrobe highlights when the spring weather won’t always accommodate.

Images via here, here and here

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Andrew

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel-Cream

I spent my spring break in Florida, and wasn’t planning on packing too much makeup or skincare. So when I was thinking about what I could feasibly bring into a carryon that wouldn't irritate or weigh down on my skin, I looked to good old Kiehl’s. As someone with oily skin and knowing that I’d be spending a lot of time by the sea, I was definitely looking for a lighter, oil-free formula that would keep me hydrated all day. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Gel Cream is basically just like water, it’s super light on my face, but leaves me hydrated ALL DAY!

Avocado Ice Cream

Okay, so while in Florida, I stumbled across this amazing ice-pops shop called The Hyppo, and feeling adventurous, I picked up one of their Avocado Ice Pops. I then proceeded to have one every day for the rest of the break and realized that I couldn’t live without them. Honestly, Avocado Ice Cream is a brilliant idea: fruity, but not overpowering, super creamy, and also super adorable. I’ll definitely eat anything that looks really appealing and that pastel green hue seemed to make me less nervous about eating an ice cream… or four.

Copper Wire Jewelry

Once again, a hot Florida find. Since it’s actually summer there, we stumbled across a bunch of really cute farmer’s markets and so many sold these adorable copper wire rings. I’m still trying to get into men’s jewelry, and I’m not sure if I’m willing to drop big bucks just yet, but I find that these really unique farmers market finds are a really solid way to transition into something more opulent. I definitely like to stack thinner, more minimalistic pieces, and I think for the upcoming summer, it’s a really fun, modern take on a bohemian aesthetic.

Images via here, here and here

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Kellie

Lavender’s Story

Lavender’s Story is a tiny body and beauty brand that is local to Chicago. It’s not hard to see that ingredients come from fresh from an urban garden when you can literally stop and smell the roses in her products. If that didn’t win you over, since the brand was created in memory of a loved one who succumbed to cancer, Lavender’s Story often donates part of its proceeds to charity.

Moscow’s Design Protections

Moscow is making a bid to become a major fashion capital, which will could signal a shift in the issues of global fashion. As part of those efforts, it extends legal protections to fashion design. New York, Paris, and the others should be vigilant. I can’t wait to see how this will play out.

Safety Regulations on Cosmetics

A bill in California was proposed to increase safety regulations on cosmetics. Currently, there are few regulations on the ingredients of cosmetics, including a lack of regulation on mercury, asbestos, and more. This bill would solidify the practices to avoid carcinogens and other toxins that many cosmetics companies have into law, ensuring the safety of consumers.

Images via here, here, and here

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Spring '19 Chicago Concerts Schedule

With only one grueling quarter left of school, spend some time away from the Reg or people-watching on the Quad to check out the amazing acts coming to Chicago! From stadium tours featuring the likes of Ariana Grande and The 1975, to more intimate shows at Green Mill jazz club or Thalia Hall, you’re bound to hear something you like!

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APRIL

¿Téo?; Image via.

4.1 - Lil Baby - Riviera Theatre

4.2 - 4.3 - Andrew Bird - Green Mill

4.3 - ¿Téo? - Subterranean

4.11 - Nicky Jam - Rosemont Theatre

4.12 - JAN BLOMQVIST - Spybar

4.12 - Fat Night - Emporium

4.12 - MUSE - United Center

4.28 - Julia Michaels - House of Blues Chicago

4.29 - The Japanese House - Bottom Lounge

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MAY

5.2 - CHVRCHES and Cherry Glazerr - Aragon Ballroom

5.8 - The 1975 - United Center

5.8 - Santigold - Vic Theatre

5.11 - Hellogoodbye - Chop Shop

5.15 - Passion Pit - Riviera Theatre

5.17 - FKJ - Concord Music Hall

Santigold; image via

5.18 - Yann Tiersen - Thalia Hall

5.21 - The Who - Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre

5.23 - Florence + The Machine - Huntington Bank Pavilion

5.23 - 5.24 - Local Natives - Thalia Hall

5.28 - Kali Uchis & Jorja Smith - Aragon Ballroom

5.29 - FRENSHIP - Thalia Hall

5.30 - 6.1 - Empire of the Sun - Metro Chicago

5.31 - Chromatics - Park West

Jorja Smith and Kali Uchis; image via

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JUNE

6.4 - Anderson .Paak - Huntington Bank Pavilion

6.4 - 6.5 - Ariana Grande - United Center

6.15 - Young the Giant - Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre

6.16 - Vampire Weekend - Huntington Bank Pavilion

6.21 - 6.25 - The Rolling Stones - Soldier Field

6.27 - Third Eye Blind - Huntington Bank Pavilion

6.28 - The National - Huntington Bank Pavilion

Anderson .Paak; image via

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Feature image via.

'Shoplifters': A Moving Portrait of Falling Through the Cracks and the Resonance of Found Families

Last month, I finally mustered the resolve to make a trip to Doc Films. If you’re friends with me on Facebook, you’re probably a witness to my routine of randomly marking that I’m “Interested” in whatever screenings are on for that week, as well as my absence at all of said screenings. This weekend was different, as one of the showcased films was Shoplifters, which won arguably the most prestigious award in the film industry: the Palme d’Or at Cannes Film Festival.

Directed by Japanese filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda, Shoplifters takes place in Tokyo and depicts the lives of a group of people entrenched in poverty. Osamu is a day-laborer forced to leave his job after breaking his ankle, and he lives with Aki, a hostess club worker, Shota, a young boy, and Hatsue, an elder woman who owns the home they live in while supporting the group with her dead person’s pension.

It is revealed that Osamu and Shota shoplift goods at various convenience stores, and their routine has become very elaborate over the years. Their reasoning for stealing goods is that unsold goods do not belong to anyone, and that, after a while, they have no choice but to be stolen. Their routine is characterized by creative mischief, and you’re secretly rooting for them every step of the way.

This film is one of sadness, but a sadness that isn’t impossible to accept. It’s filled with minor bouts of grief that are overcome by the group’s ironclad resolve in remaining loyal and honest to each other. The film isn’t a compilation of flat out, in-your-face tragedies that demand audience tears. Rather, it depicts the inconveniences of their menial shoplifting as a result of their extreme poverty. It’s hard to call Shoplifters a sentimental tragedy as it’s much more about battling inevitable nihilism in its denouement and exploring the intimacy and understanding that can only arise amongst a found family.

Feature image via.

Read the Spring '19 Issue of MODA Mag Now!

Didn’t make it to Atelier MODA to pick up your copy of the latest MODA Magazine? Check out our Spring ‘19 edition here–one of the longest issues we’ve published to date!

The MODA Mag team would like to thank all of the stores, businesses and individuals involved in creating, producing and printing this issue.

Designing My First Collection for Atelier MODA

The night before the Atelier MODA Show, I sat on my couch with two black leather shoulder plates on my lap and a sandwich bag of 200 safety pins in my mouth. I anxiously tried to stick more and more silver pins into the plates, hoping that the additions would make the look that much more striking. I suppose I conditioned myself at that point to believe that I could never have enough, and that more than anything, sticking safety pins into black leather was almost a form of meditation to calm my nerves. By that point, my backpack and suitcase were packed, excluding the plates which had to be carried in a separate bag due to their size and sharpness; the next day would turn out to be a wild and memorable night to say the least.

My Mood Board for the NO FEAR Collection.

Designing my first collection for Atelier MODA was a truly enthralling and rewarding adventure. From start to finish, it really did feel like one big blur, during which a collection was fully realized, but I’ll see how much I can relay to you through this reflection.

I went into the whole process basically as a complete amateur. I definitely remember feeling that my lack of experience in garment construction would hamper the final result.

My illustrations seemed more advanced than what was feasible for a three-dimensional model, so I was certainly insecure in the translation process from sketch to garment. Thankfully, I had such a supportive group of designers, models and friends who constantly made me feel that my decisions were justified.

When you design, it feels like you’re translating your own perspective of life, your own experiences, your own desires and fears into design, and to have so much support for my designs without judgement gave me an immense sense of inspiration and freedom.

All of the designers had such unique takes on what fashion means and the messages we wanted to share with our audience, but I was pleased to see so much cross-pollination occurred when it came to my own collection. I tell everybody that so many of my designs have bits and pieces of other designers’ works and that connection between designers is something I find really uplifting; it’s as if we all had a common link that ran through all our collections, perhaps a common love for creativity, for fashion, or for collaboration, all things I valued throughout this process.

It’s hard to believe that upwards of 200 hours of work could all be distilled into one magical night, enough to the point where all those laborious hours feel somehow worth it. I remember that on the day of the show, I told my models that the finishing touches rested in their hands. I made the clothes and now they had to bring their personalities to the pieces to bring them to life.

And they did not disappoint.

Despite the difficulties that come with strapless tops, frayed edges and a harness covered in safety pins, my models transformed my collection into something that I could have only dreamed of. It was like watching my sketches strut off the page and down a runway. The crowd was so welcoming and the comments after the show brought me to tears; I had just realized a dream that I’ve had since I first discovered the world of fashion.

More than anything, this entire process has filled me with a deep appreciation for all the wonderful people that collaborated with me through my journey. To my wonderful co-designers and design mentors, particularly those who worked in DBC with me: you filled me with so much inspiration, so much love and support and so much laughter and joy. Seeing the way you all crafted your own collections influenced my construction so much, so I’d like to say my collection was in many ways yours as well.

To the wonderful MODA Board who put together rehearsals, the venue, lighting, hair and makeup, who supported the entire assembly of the show, I am grateful for the time and effort you put into managing so many people: the show turned out beautifully.

And finally, to my lovely models, who remained resilient despite all the unexpected turns in their outfits, who wore whatever I put them in with no complaints and who continue to inspire me as muses to this day. I could not have asked for a better team, and I am forever grateful that MODA supports this spirit of collaboration. This process likely took up more than 200 hours of my life, but I don’t regret a single second.

If you are insecure or shy or curious when it comes to designing for the MODA Show (as I once was), I highly recommend you bite the bullet and give it a go and apply for the Designer Boot Camp. Fashion design and garment construction have taught me so much about the creative process and my own personal aesthetic, and it’s an experience that I will treasure for years to come.

I can’t wait to see what next year’s show will be like!

Pre-show poke and polaroids

Photos courtesy of Alexandra Nisenoff and Andrew Chang

Stanley Donen Revitalized Hollywood and Rejoiced in Its Magic

The day before the 91st Academy Awards, director Stanley Donen passed away at the age of 94, leaving a gaping hole in the Hollywood firmament. Donen’s magnum opus, Singin’ In The Rain, is often hailed as the greatest movie musical of all time. Its timeless humor, critique of Hollywood and endless joy all combine to make pure movie magic, even decades after its initial release.

The 40’s saw a sharp decline in both the quantity and quality of movie musicals as World War I hardened public sensibilities. Donen observed this change and used Singin’ to poke fun at cultural transitions (represented by the switch from silent films to sound in the movie) with heaping doses of hope and sentimentality. Since its release in 1952, you’d be hard pressed to find a person in America that wouldn't recognize the classic title song or picture Gene Kelly’s iconic umbrella/lamppost pose.

Stanley Donen films are characterized by their ability to deliver sweetness while retaining human authenticity and a sharp wit that keeps them from becoming too saccharine. His directorial debut, On the Town, is a classically cheesy musical staring Kelly and young phenom Frank Sinatra, majorly grounded by Donen’s on-location filming in New York, against the wishes of MGM. Donen saw that the city was practically another character in the movie, and to fake it would be to compromise the story.

Image via

One of my personal favorites, Funny Face, features Audrey Hepburn as a bookstore clerk turned model and Fred Astaire as a photographer in a film that sweetly reconciles intellectualism, fashion and love. In his commitment to authenticity, Donen even drew from Diana Vreeland, a former Vogue editor-in-chief, for musical number “Think Pink”–the editor had sent a memo to her staff saying "Today let's think pig white! Wouldn't it be wonderful to have stockings that were pig white! The color of baby pigs, not quite white and not quite pink!"

Donen’s directorial genius shone brightest through his handling of dance in film. Along with frequent collaborator Gene Kelly, he created the “cine-dance,” integrating the musical medium with film in order to have dances become more than Broadway-style numbers, but rather an artistic collaboration between dancer and cameraman. His ability to strike harmony between so many elements of a musical has made him the director of some of the best movie musical dance sequences of all time, such as Fred Astaire dancing on the walls and ceiling in 1951’s Royal Wedding.

Donen was notably overlooked by the Oscars throughout his legendary career, only awarded for his artistic contributions to film with a Lifetime Achievement award in 1997. Upon receiving the award, the legendary director burst into song and dance, giving us one last piece of that classic Hollywood joy he overflowed with.

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Feature image via

MODA Blog Favorites: February 2019

After the end of a grueling month of p-sets, essays, and juggling who knows how many other responsibilities and obligations, MODA Blog brings you a refreshing list of favorites from our bloggers and photographers to fill you with inspiration and energy for the next month.

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Olivia

Assume Form, James Blake

While I’m all for James Blake’s (often unexpected) collaborations with some of my favorite artists, I’ve been waiting for a solo album for what seems like ages now. Lucky for all of us, Assume Form does not disappoint! The album is chock full of Blake’s signature eerie and amorphous sound with features from Travis Scott, Moses Sumney, Metro Boomin, ROSALíA and André 3000 (wow). It boasts a full bodied range, from sultry tracks like “Can’t Believe the Way We Flow,” “I’ll Come Too” and “Are You In Love?” to tracks like “Mile High” and “Tell Them” that are perfect for zoning out to. Better yet? He’ll be at Riviera Theatre on March 3rd!!!

Mejuri

I try really hard not to buy into every sustainably sourced, fairly priced “it-brand” that pops up on Instagram, but I’ve been holding out on Mejuri for what seems like years. My logic is that $29 for a solid gold hoop for my cartilage piercing is maybe a steal?? Whatever. The $10 flat shipping rate is a definite turnoff but every influencer under the sun has a 10% discount pasted in their bio, so shop smartly ladies and gents! My tiny solo hoop came wayyyy overpackaged in like five different boxes and bags so I’m not a fan of that, but it did have a nice personalized note and the quality of the jewelry really is great. That’s my tentative endorsement.

Fear of Falling Asleep, TENDER

Sorry I’m being lazy, but here’s another album suggestion! I’ve been hooked on TENDER’s otherworldly jams since I heard “Nadir” (off of Modern Addiction) last year on my Spotify Discover Weekly. Fear of Falling Asleep is a superb followup to their 2017 album Modern Addiction, which I honestly wasn’t sure they’d be able to top. The album definitely needs to be listened to in its entirety, but personal favorite tracks include “Tainted,” “More or Less,” “No Devotion,” and “Closer Still.” They’ll be at Beat Kitchen on March 14th and tickets are only $10. You know what to do.

Images via here, here and here.

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Kardelen

Bare Acrylics

One of the things I am known for amongst my friends is always having my nails done. When weeks with two p-sets and three midterms crash upon us (yes, I know), sometimes all we can do is run to CVS and pick up our saving grace when a trip to the salon just isn’t in the cards. These beauties are as good as press ons get- the glue is pretty damn impressive, and these nails can also be painted over. I have gone through three sets and love them for how easy it is to keep my claws on while still spending time at the library.

Yoga Waist Tights

Tights are a wintertime staple when the thigh high boots and skirt looks are calling yet the weather won’t permit it. I love the look (the lower denier, the better), but hate the damn seam. Enter the $6 answer to your prayers: the yoga waist tight with NO SEAM that is as comfortable as the day is long. Gone are the days of tearing your tights off and regretting even putting them on. Be warned: these tights are easy to rip (thank you to the acrylics mentioned above) but well worth the $6 price and Amazon Prime shipping.

Platform Sneakers

I am a whopping five feet tall (and one inch). I feel like a child sometimes. How I counteract that is by making sure every shoe I own has SOME sort of heel, and now the trendy pale pink sneaker is not safe from me.

Images via here, here and here.

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Andrew

Maybelline Fit Me Foundation

Okay not so much an exclusive to February, but definitely a more popular product for me this month. If you’re new to makeup, I highly recommend this foundation; it’s full coverage without being super cakey and it’s non comedogenic so the breakouts I’m trying to cover up don’t get worse. It’s also at a super affordable price point ($8!!!!) so if you’re on a college budget, I find that it’s a pretty solid foundation to get started with. I have pretty oily skin so I normally buy the matte + poreless formula but I know they also have a dewier formula for dryer skin.

thank u, next, Ariana Grande

Come at me, Joseph. I have been nonstop replaying Ariana Grande’s new album, thank u, next, since it came out earlier this month. The track list has a good combo of deeply emotional songs (“needy” and “ghosting”) and also really fun songs that I love to jam out to with my friends (“7rings”; “break up with your girlfriend, i’m bored”). My favorite song has to be “NASA”; as a Gemini who constantly shifts between being extroverted and introverted, I find that “NASA” perfectly encompasses my perspective on alone time, plus it’s got just the right beat for a party for one. If you’re a big fan of Ariana’s work, I’m sure you share my obsession for her new album as well.

Uniqlo House Slippers

As a young Chinese-Canadian, I was raised in a household that always had a healthy stock of house slippers, but since moving to college, I haven’t been able to attain a really solid pair… until now. I went shopping with my roommate earlier in the month, and he pointed out the most adorable slippers I have ever seen. When it comes to anything Disney or stars, I become such a little boy, it’s just so darn cute. I bought a pair instantly. They are the comfiest slippers I have ever worn, I have no idea what they’re made of but they’re super soft and the padding on the sole makes them super cozy. Honestly, after a long day of class, these are the only thing I want to slip my feet into.

Images via here, here and here.

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Joseph

“Handmade Heaven,” MARINA

MARINA (fka Marina and the Diamonds) is officially back after a three year hiatus and the world is better for it. She has dropped part of her name and gifted us with a gorgeous single: “Handmade Heaven,” in anticipation of her fourth album. Regardless of whether you spent all of 2012 and 2015 blasting her previous two albums or had never heard of her until just now, do yourself a favor and check MARINA out.

The Sill

I agree with Olivia in that I try not to get too excited by the trendy, minimalist brands that make direct withdraws from my wallet on social media, but this brand is legitimately cool. Delivered-to-your-door potted plants might seem like an odd purchase, but they have a great selection of plants of all different sizes, and the most aesthetically pleasing pots. Brighten up your home with a new, chlorophyll-based roommate this winter.

Technical Pants

Functional pants have always existed, but brands have started picking up on how consumers want clothes that work with them and make a stylish statement. Windbreaker pants, nylon and elastic-waistbands don’t just have to be for your hiking trip.

Images via here, here and here.

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Victoria

Hoop earrings

The bigger the hoop, the better. This trend has spread like wildfire, making it one of the most versatile accessories. Need something to make simple dress feel more sophisticated or throw together a street style, edgier vibe? Hoops. Are. The. Answer.

Cargo pants

OK listen, I KNOW what you’re about to say. But hear me out, cargo pants have been reinvented and are making a comeback. We have reclaimed cargo pants and made it acceptable for people other than dads and tourists to wear them. They’re comfortable, pretty easy to style, and seem like you tried harder than you did to look good.

Metal straws

I would kind of like to take credit for starting the metal straw trend (if it’s even a trend…) because I see celebrities preaching about their new metal straws but I’ve been out here using mine since last May. Jeffree Star even made his own line of metal straws, so I would like to be given my credit where credit is due. But I guess the real point is, metal straws not only help the environment but are absolutely a vibe. I cannot tell you how many people have asked me where I got mine, so highly recommend ordering some.

Images via here, here and here.

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Katherine

Epona Valley

I do not think I could rave about Epona Valley hair accessories enough. I have their Alexandria Hair Pin in gold, but if I could, I would own every thing on their website. Wearing one of their pieces instantly turns you into a Greek goddess/fairy/sprite/ elf/nymph/Mother Earth… the ethereal options are endless. This brand makes pieces for the fantasy world you want to live in every day. They don’t come at fantasy prices, however. A single bobby pin can cost $54, but I highly recommend saving up for their quality pieces that will give you goddess vibes for a lifetime.

Maple Butter

How did I not know that this was a thing until stocking up for the polar vortex?!?!? As one of those terrible people who hates maple syrup I was skeptical of this little jar of maple butter at first, but holy crap, this stuff is amazing. Put it on pancakes, crackers, or just on a spoon and then in your mouth. Please go to Whole Foods right now and purchase your new guilty pleasure.

Kiehls Turmeric and Cranberry Seed Mask

This is the only face mask I own and will ever choose to buy again. I’ve tried your charcoal, sheet, and bubble masks, but this is the only one I’ve found that really does what it says it will. After leaving a thick layer of the magical goop on your face for twenty minutes or so, your skin will be visibly more radiant and dewy and feel energized and refreshed.

Images via here, here and here.

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Zoe

Statement Belts

My wardrobe is quite boring sometimes, and when I really wanna take the edge off my all black outfits and not look like a combat-chick, I love breaking it up with a statement belt. It is my favorite form of jewelry and always looks good.

Elemis Superfood Facial Oil

In the winter my normal moisturizer just doesn’t cut it. I need something that will not immediately disappear when I walk outside. This facial oil is not only light-weight but smells oh-so-amazing. I truly feel like a hippie goddess.

Joggers

My joggers are my favorite wardrobe element. My joggers immediately give me an angsty confidence that supply my ten-hours-of-class days. Paired with a baggy turtleneck, a tight tank top, or a professional blouse and blazer, my joggers can fit any occasion. Best of all, they are comfy and fit over my thermals!

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Images via here, here, and here

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Feature image Djinane Alsuwayeh.

A Night of Uprising and Upset at the 91st Academy Awards

In a night filled with a historic number of Oscar nominations and wins for minorities, the pinnacle award for the night was a disappointment to many viewers.

Most of the night went exceedingly well in terms of equal representation, including wins for Black Panther’s costume designer Ruth E. Carter and production designer Hannah Beachler, Regina King’s win for Best Supporting Actress in If Beale Street Could Talk, Mahershala Ali’s second win for Best Supporting Actor in The Green Book, Spike Lee’s award for BlacKkKlansman’s script, Alfonso Cuarón winning Best Foreign Film, Best Cinematography and Best Director for Roma, Rami Malek’s win for Best Actor in Bohemian Rhapsody, Bao directors Domee Shi and Becky Neiman-Cobb winning Best Animated Short, Period. End of Sentence. helmer Rayka Zehtabchi’s win for Best Live-Action Short, Free Solo filmmakers Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi’s win for Best Documentary Feature, and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse co-director Peter Ramsey’s win for Best Animated Feature. Even the award presenters were diverse, with 29 of the 52 non-white.

However, once Best Film was awarded to Green Book, the tone of the night shifted. In a film that fits a narrative on race relations better for the 1960s than in the present, Green Book is often touted as the story of a white and black man becoming friends despite their disparate experiences (however, Mahershala Ali’s character was deemed a supporting character in this discussion of race).

The “character arc” of Tony Vallelonga is that of the classic white savior: he helps his pianist employer DC Shirley avoid a beating before explaining to Shirley that he, Vallelonga, is “blacker” than Shirley because he likes Little Richard and Aretha Franklin. A problematic take on race in America that claims progressivism is not the only problem surrounding this film, with one writer criticized for making Islamophobic comments, another writer accused of sexual misconduct, and main actor Viggo Mortensen using a racial slur during a press tour to promote the film.

Mahershala Ali had to apologize to his character Don Shirley’s actual family after the family’s displeasure with the film’s interpretation of Shirley. After winning the award, Green Book producers Jim Burke and Charles B. Wessler and director Peter Farrelly also did not thank Ali’s character Don Shirley in their speech.

Green Book’s win does not come as too much of a surprise when looking at the demographics of the Academy’s voting committee. With nearly 8,000 voters, only about 38% of the voters identify as women and 16% of voters belong to a a racial minority group (as of 2018). Although this is an increase compared to earlier years, a deficiency in diverse perspectives limits the Academy from receiving an honest and holistic understanding of race and representation in film. It allows most voters to lean into a vision of interracial harmony that isn’t too progressive or upsetting.

Following the #OscarsSoWhite controversy that has plagued the Academy for the past few years for its lack of black nominees, this win is a slap in the face for those critical of the Academy’s attempts at inclusion. Many have argued that if the Academy was eager to award a film addressing race relations in America, it should have looked to Spike Lee’s BlacKkKlansman, which won Lee his first Oscar for Best Original Screenplay.

BlacKkKlansman focuses on a black cop infiltrating the Ku Klux Klan to gain intelligence. Many argue this film explores themes of racism, bigotry, and what it means to be black in the 70’s with more nuance and insight than Green Book. Lee himself was upset at Green Book’s win, and attempted to walk out of the room at the announcement to discuss the mistake made by the Academy stating: "I thought it was courtside at the Garden, and the ref made a bad call."

For a full list of the nominees and winners of the 91st Academy Awards, click here.

Images via: cover photo, Leading/Supporting Actors/Actress Winners, Alfonso Cuarón, Hannah Beachler, Spike Lee and Samuel L. Jackson, Domee Shi and Becky Neiman-Cobb, Spiderman: Into the Spiderverse winners, Green Book.