Favorite On Campus Coffee Spots: Andrea x Dollop Coffee Co.

From finishing up your first quarter at UChicago, to wrapping up your final year in the College, you've undoubtedly spent at least some portion of your time here frequenting your favorite on campus coffee shop.

Whether you gravitate towards these places for a quick shot of caffeine, a study break between classes or to meet up with friends, we've decided to feature MODA bloggers as a part of the Blog's ongoing On Campus Coffee Spots series to discover the intersections between campus culture, fashion and of course, caffeine! Keep scrolling for our unique profile on Andrea Li, a first year thinking about majoring in Global Studies or Cinema and Media Studies. 

What kinds of RSOs and activities are you involved in on campus? 

Photographer for MODA Blog, Pi Beta Phi sorority.

Why is Dollop your favorite cafe on campus?

Dollop is my favorite cafe for multiple reasons. I live in Max Palevsky, so the location of Dollop is close by. Dollop isn't centrally located on campus like some of the other coffee shops, but just as popular. Compared to the other coffee shops on campus, Dollop has amazing lighting, which makes it a lot easier to stay awake and perfect for coffee dates with friends. 

How often do you come here?

In the first couple weeks of school, I went to Dollop a grand total of five times. But recently, as I've been avoiding the Reg, I go to Dollop about one to three times a week. 

What is the best type of activity to do here?

I love sitting at a table by the window, or if the weather's nice, sitting outside. It's the perfect place to people watch! I like to bring my laptop and my bullet journal to Dollop, get some work done, and drink some coffee while I'm there. It's also a perfect place to just chat and catch up with friends!

What’s your go-to drink?

I'm currently on a mission to try every drink on the menu (including the different types of tea), so I don't have a go-to drink as of yet. I love their cappuccino and chai drinks though!

Best item on the menu?

I love their sandwiches, particularly the roast beef (without the onions though)! As for drinks, I'm obsessed with their dirty chai latte!

What are you wearing?

I'm wearing this burgundy bomber jacket from Forever21 which I am currently obsessed with. I'm also wearing my typical black boots and choker, which are staples in my wardrobe. My favorite accessory I have on is the only item I have splurged on which is my Christian Dior sunglasses. They're my favorite item in my wardrobe and for good reason since they go with every outfit!

How would you describe your personal style?

My style changes everyday and is always evolving. The one thing that always stays constant, however, is that my wardrobe contains lots of neutral colors with statement pieces, especially statement jackets. 

All images courtesy of Yamini Nambimadom. View her online portfolio here and her Instagram page @theyam.cam!

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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Where & Wear: The Allis Afternoon Tea

I love brunch and I swear by it, but something that has always been a soft spot of mine is afternoon tea! And coming to Chicago, I realized that this was something I've continuously ignored. However, Chicago is host to many tea rooms and the Allis in the Fulton Market District is one of them!

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Both a lounge and a bar, the Allis provides a relaxed yet classic atmosphere that's perfect for a girl's day out or even a date! The floor-to-ceiling windows allow for natural light to pour into the restaurant yet still keeping you warm from that cold Chicago breeze. It also has an expansive art collection to check out as well.

The Allis offers two different courses: Sparkling Afternoon Tea and Afternoon Tea. The difference between the two is actually sparkling: a glass of rose prosecco! It's light and airy and will definitely complement the array of pastries, sandwiches, and scones. I would actually recommend eating a light breakfast and even altogether skipping lunch if you're planning on afternoon tea. The finger foods can tend to fill you up and you definitely don't want to not finish them all either. The Allis also provides a variety of different loose leaf teas to choose from. However, if someone in your party is not a tea person, the Allis has Intelligentsia Coffee, hot chocolate, and even champagne! 

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For some outfit inspirations, I would recommend two looks: a flirty dress that screams tea-time or a chic city look that complements the Allis' modern yet cozy atmosphere. 

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$$/13-125 N Green St

Favorite On Campus Coffee Spots: Jaire x Café Logan

From finishing up your first quarter at UChicago, to wrapping up your final year in the College, you've undoubtedly spent at least some portion of your time here frequenting your favorite on campus coffee shop.

Whether you gravitate towards these places for a quick shot of caffeine, a study break between classes or to meet up with friends, we've decided to feature MODA bloggers as a part of the Blog's ongoing On Campus Coffee Spots series to discover the intersections between campus culture, fashion and of course, caffeine! Keep scrolling for our unique profile on Jaire Byers, a first year Psychology major and Statistics minor. 

What kinds of RSOs and activities are you involved in on campus?

MODA Blog photographer, Campus Dining Advisory Board representative, Maroon Mentors mentee (shout-out to my lovely mentor, Qudsiyyah Shariyf)

Why is Café Logan your favorite cafe on campus? 

I love Café Logan mainly for the atmosphere: it's modern, sophisticated, and loungy without being intimidatingly chic like Quantum Café or Plein Air. I also love getting to hear the upbeat buzz of conversation among the creative professionals here at Logan. Things like that make the UChicago campus feel a little bit bigger than just a bastion of academia. Also, I'm never more than two feet from an outlet—props to the interior designers for that.

How often do you come here?

I come here probably four times a week, at the very least every Tuesday and Thursday morning to finish up my SOSC readings and go through my emails.

What is the best type of activity to do here?

I love to come here with my friend Sylvia de Boer and do some light studying together! Other than that, I mainly come here to study on my own.

What’s your go-to drink?

Medium iced chai latte with soy milk, light on the ice.

Best item on the menu?

I'm not sure if I can choose quite yet, I've only really gotten tea here. I've been meaning to try their flatbread pizzas, though—they look delicious.

What are you wearing?

My favorite tortoise eyeglass frames from EYEBUYDIRECT (one of three!), a thrifted forest green cable-knit sweater, black Levi 510s, a burgundy blouson jacket from Banana Republic, brown Mossimo chukka boots, a tribal-print scarf from Express, and assorted off-brand jewelry.  

How would you describe your personal style?

I like to see my style as a reflection of the way I try to lead my life: calculated and controlled with a natural air of casual professionalism. Emphasis on try.

All image courtesy of Nancy Xue.

Interview Series: Christine Sanderson of Le Thrift Consignment

Welcome to MODA Interview Series, where we feature influencers and leaders in the fashion industry in the Chicago area and beyond to discuss their design inspirations, their creative backgrounds and what it means to be a self-starter in the fashion world today.  

Seven years ago Christine Sanderson founded Le Thrift Consignment, a luxury consignment store that sought to cater to women of all income levels in the midst of national economic upheaval. Flash forward to the present and Le Thrift has become an important focal point for vintage and designer fashions in the Chicagoland area. We sat down with Christine to discuss everything from her sources of inspiration to the challenges of running her own business. 

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What informs your design philosophy? Is there anything that inspires you in particular when conceptualizing the image of your store and products? 

I come from a creative background where my professors in college encouraged me to study as much as possible all types of design. Even though I had studied visual communications, they had us learn about textile design, industrial design, fashion design, interior design and the world of advertising. They also had made us curious learners and had us explore different worlds of art dating back to the Roman Empire to modern art. I have taken this curiosity of learning and have applied it to my business. As an entrepreneur you can never learn to much and I often borrow from other business fields ideas and concepts that I can adapt into the world of women's consignment. 

I also saw there was a need to have a store that felt high end, but had fashion obtainable for all incomes. Fashion with history from vintage lines to contemporary that a women can shop for in the same store. I really love the story of Harry Gordon who created Selfridges department store in London, UK. His innovative designs, out of the box ideas and thoughts to retail were the blue prints of the modern department store.

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What did you do before Le Thrift and what inspired you to start your own company? 

Before Le Thrift Consignment, I had my own graphic design company for seven years and then was a fashion representative for Tom Ford in the Midwest. My first out of college job was designing Disney licensed baby clothes for Marshall Fields, Macy's and Target. My career has changed many times due to trends in the economy and I have always had to adapt. I tell people just graduating school that their career may change up to seven times as an adult and to try to learn as much and be adaptive in order to be successful in today's economy.

Le Thrift Consignment has always been a dream business to start up. It was about timing that I actually got the chance to do it. Although it was not under the best of circumstances, I had been laid off from my position with Tom Ford during the last recession. At the time I was a single mother who had been going on countless interviews with no results. I wanted to do something about it and decided to pursue my dream of becoming a luxury consignment business owner. At home while my daughter was at school, I did a ton of research and drew up a business plan. I wanted to offer a type of business that was not offered in Chicago, a niche where I felt there was a demand. 

At the same time, during the recession, my friends and colleagues were losing their jobs and homes and came to me to sell their clothing after the announcement of the business. I started out of my house in a tiny bedroom that became my office. A lot of people told me I could not do it, I had no money and warned me it would fail. Never let anyone tell you that you cannot go for a dream. Just make sure that you have a solid business plan and do the research before starting.

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What's next for Le Thrift? Is there anything you’re looking forward to in particular?

We are moving into the next phase of the business which is to focus more online. This is very exciting for us as this is where we see more potential growth. We are also expanding the business into offering new services that can assist clients and make their lives easier. With this phase of business there will be expansion into another state. Although, any of these details I cannot go into further as there is a lot of competition in my field right now. I am thoroughly excited though to execute this next phase.

What has been one of the biggest milestones in your career so far? 

The biggest milestone in my career has been that other business owners in the same field and across the US take me seriously now and the business has a presence in the fashion world. It has been seven years in the making with little to no capital and a lot of sweat equity. 

What is the hardest part about running your own business?

The hardest part of running my business is following all the changes and trends that happen in retail. The economy is still soft and customers still really think before purchasing an item. Our society has been trained to only shop sales and discounts. As a small business retailer this can be very challenging because even the slightest narrow in our margins can have huge effects on our outcome. We also have to constantly adapt to the market around us. We have more competition than when we first started and the local market has become saturated with consignment , so we are constantly trying to find ways to make ourselves unique and create a niche that the other businesses do not offer to their customers.

What is the most rewarding part about running your own business? 

The most rewarding part of running my business is to constantly be learning and challenged everyday. I meet so many people from different generations, backgrounds and professions that I learn from. Also, the history that you can learn from behind fashion is amazing. When I go to an older client's house and go through their closet, I talk to them about when they wore certain items. They often relate a dress or bag to a certain time or event in history. I love hearing these stories and learning from more a personal perspective of how these events in history affected their decisions in buying and deciding what they wore. There is a anthropology perspective I never thought existed when I first started the business.

Swing by Le Thrift's Chicago location at 1821 W Chicago Ave. You can also shop their site here and visit their blog here. 

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Interview Series: David R. Robinson of Saint Alfred

Welcome to MODA Interview Series, where we feature influencers and leaders in the fashion industry in the Chicago area and beyond to discuss their design inspirations, their creative backgrounds and what it means to be a self-starter in the fashion world today.  

Whether you’re looking for your next favorite pair of sneakers or a killer statement tee, Saint Alfred has made a name for itself as the go-to destination for enviable, streamlined streetwear. David R. Robinson, store manager, buyer and photographer at Saint Alfred, shares with us the highlights of his creative career and the challenges of helping to running a small business. 

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How would you to describe Saint Alfred’s overall design aesthetic? Who is your ideal shopper? What are some cornerstones of the Saint Alfred design mentality and vision? 

If I had to use one word to describe Saint Alfred's aesthetic I would say clean. Whether it's the layout and design of the shop, our website, our graphics or our collaboration we do our best to have a somewhat timeless aesthetic. Something that will not only be fun but also intriguing as well as standing the test of time. We don't have a ideal shopper, we just ask that people are open and receptive. Our customer base is so varied, whether it's kids all the way to older adults, we get them all. We don't attempt to cater to any one type of customer because we would have went out of business years ago trying to please everyone. So we do our best to stay our course and we've been fortunate that people have grown with us.

Over the eleven years we've been in business we've been fortunate to introduce many brands not only to Chicago but also the region. Over that time we've grown from a local boutique to one that's known globally and we don't take any of our customers for granted. With that said we have to balance creating product that will resonate locally in Chicago but also not alienate customers elsewhere on the globe. It's a tricky balance but we fortunately have a great team and have had more hits than misses. 

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What got you into fashion and retail in general? Were you always on that track or did you have more of an "aha" moment after which you segued into more creative industries.

I've always been interested in garments and fashion. I was raised to have pride in my appearance, that for better or worse people will judge you by that first. As I've gotten older and through my various travels my knowledge of designers and brands has only broadened. This has allowed me to focus more on what I personally like and want to wear. I wasn't always on track to be involved in the field I'm currently in.

I went to school for Psychology and Pharmacology but I've always been a creative person. From visual art to writing to now photography. I feel we're all born creative people however as we grow older some of us loose that creative voice or it gets drowned out by other things. I've been fortunate enough to still hear my inner child and still have my creative voice. So at the core of myself I've had two sides to my person, the creative side and the intellectual side. The intellectual side drove me to go down the path of psychology and pharmacology which was interesting to me. People interest me and the reason we do certain things interest me. Human behavior interests me. So around the time I was in school I lost a few people close to me and that put my life into perspective. It was then I chose to put psych on pause and decided to pursue photography because that's what ultimately makes me happy. Fortunately my background in psych helps me with my photography. From me doing freelance work I started working at the shop and I realized my sincere appreciation of garments and fabrics. I've always been into sneakers so this job was a perfect intersection of some of my varied interests.

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What's next for Saint Alfred? Is there anything you’re looking forward to in particular?

While I can't tell you specifically what's next for Saint Alfred I can say we're cooking up a few things we're excited to show our customers. There are a few things I'm looking forward to but they are once again things I can't disclose at this time. In a era where everything is leaked or seen months in advance we like to keep the surprise until it's the proper time. That way we can see the genuine reaction from our customers. One thing I am looking forward to that I can speak about is the upcoming buying season. It's a time when I usually have to travel along with two of my other coworkers I run the shop and do the buying with. I love traveling and this job has allowed me to travel to various places around the globe meeting new people and seeing product in person. It's given me a great deal of perspective which I'm grateful for.

What has been one of the biggest milestones in your career so far? 

I can't think of just one, there's been more than a few which have been amazing and a little surreal. One thing that sticks out is over the course of my career I've been able to meet and in some cases befriend various people in this industry that I look up to. I've read magazines with them in it and now on some levels we're peers. Through that I've been able to learn a great deal from them and they've helped my own personal growth as a person and a creative. Every year has been filled with highlights of one sort or another.  I will say having the chance to meet and talk with Tom Sachs, Carlo Rivetti of Stone Island and Prodigy of Mobb Deep are definitely some of the highlights of this year.

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What is the hardest part about helping to run a small business?

I would say the most difficult aspect of helping run this business is the fact I have no set schedule and work a great deal. Unlike most traditional jobs I don't have a set 9-5 or a set office. Just because I leave the shop doesn't mean I can clock out and not deal with it. Since some people recognize my face and that I work at Saint Alfred I get asked about product or shop related things when I've been at grabbing groceries or out on my personal time. I'm pretty much on call at all times unless I'm asleep, that could mean emails coming through at all times of the night or discussing with my coworkers about a collaboration or developing the marketing for a upcoming in-house release or whatever. Fortunately I enjoy what I do so while the work is indeed work it's also fun.

What is the most rewarding part about helping to run a small business?     

The most rewarding part about helping to run the business is seeing the reactions to customers when they learn about a new brand or get a shoe or item that they're really excited about. I enjoy well thought out and well designed product that lasts and I enjoy talking to other people that are also excited about it. With all the differences we allow to separate ourselves it's interesting and encouraging that something such as clothing or sneakers can bring together people of various ethnicities, genders and incomes under one common love or connection.

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Swing by St Alfred in their Chicago location at 1531 N. Milwaukee Ave. Check out their site here and follow them on Instagram and Twitter.

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Favorite On Campus Coffee Spots: Nivedina x Common Knowledge Cafe

From finishing up your first quarter at UChicago, to wrapping up your final year in the College, you've undoubtedly spent at least some portion of your time here frequenting your favorite on campus coffee shop.

Whether you gravitate towards these places for a quick shot of caffeine, a study break between classes or to meet up with friends, we've decided to feature MODA bloggers as a part of the Blog's ongoing On Campus Coffee Spots series to discover the intersections between campus culture, fashion and of course, caffeine! Keep scrolling for our unique profile on Nivedina Sarma, a first year Molecular Engineering major.

What kinds of RSOs and activities are you involved in on campus?

I write for the MODA blog, tutor at Ray Elementary through STARS, and dance and choreograph for Apsara. Related to my major, I'm one of the Associate Editors for The Triple Helix as well as a member of Benzene (the chemistry society). I also work at the Becker Friedman Institute for Research in Economics on campus.

Why is Common Knowledge your favorite cafe on campus?

I like that Common Knowledge is tucked into the crossroads between the Learning Center and the Harper reading room. That means I can always grab something to drink and take it to study in a cubicle or one of the prettiest reading rooms in the world. My favorite thing about it is the chalkboard that says "Make Time for Our Coffee." It reminds me to take a minute amongst the bustle of the quarter and treat myself to something.

How often do you come here?

Almost every day!

What is the best type of activity to do here?

For me, Common Knowledge is great for everything - from hanging out with pals to working on p-sets with a small group or finishing up my readings by myself. The tables don't wobble, the noise level is just right, and the playlists are the perfect soundtrack both for getting work done and having fun conversations.

What's your go-to drink? 

I like asking the baristas what they feel like making that day, and they always come up with something delicious. So far, my favorite has been a raspberry mocha, but they also make a killer chai.

Best item on the menu?

They have an awesome collection of loose-leaf teas, but since it's getting chillier outside I've been loving the chai a lot more.

What are you wearing?

I'm wearing my favorite pair of skinny-jeans - dark wash, of course. Now that it's fall, I've been wearing a lot more earth tones, hence the olive shirt. And my scarf is from my mom's closet, but we picked it out together a few years ago during a family trip to Cochin. It's so cozy. I love wearing pieces from India because they help me feel rooted in my cultures and remembering my roots gives me a filter of optimism and hope.

How would you describe your personal style?

In general, I love fashion because it's one of those art forms that requires us to participate in it before it can be complete. So my approach to fashion is to engage with pieces that help me feel both comfortable and confident, since I find myself being who I want to be when I'm wearing pieces that elevate me like that. In that vein, I love dresses and skirts. I'm also from Texas, so I'm used to getting to wear dresses almost all year. Now that I'm going to be living through bona fide winters, I've been enjoying layering pieces and playing with color and texture within the layers. My friends joke that I wear a lot of purple, so I'm also trying to branch out with my palette. My inspiration for that is Victoria Beckham because I've always loved how she makes color-blocking look so effortless and beautiful. I'm also a huge fan of statement pieces! Recently, I got a pair of lilac high tops and I LOVE them, so I'm frequently wearing those.

All images courtesy of Paul Lou. Check out his online photography portfolio here!

Where & Wear: The Hampton Social

Sad that you still have weeks left till you can escape the windy city and more importantly the pile of midterms and p-sets? If so, look to The Hampton Social as a nice escape!

Located in Downtown, The Hampton Social exudes warmth and summery goodness of the East Coast to Chicago. The entire restaurant, decorated with a nautical theme, is Instagram and Snapchat worthy. You name it: string lights, hanging succulents, hammocks, and all white furniture. What more does your social media presence want? The live music also sweetens the ambiance, adding to the homey feeling of the restaurant.

But let's not forget about the food. The portions at The Hampton Social are proportionately sized, not too big but not too small. I personally recommend brunch as the restaurant exudes that more fun, lighter side. Along with the classics like pancakes and waffles, they also offer fun East Coast offerings like the Crab Cake Benedict or the L(lobster)BLT.  However, no fear- there's always dinner if you can't make it. But let's be honest- if you come to the Hampton Social, how can you not order the Rose? Probably their most famous backdrop, rose all day, really highlights the restaurant's love for the drink. Their selection changes each time, so make sure to ask your waiter!

For the relaxed, yet spirited social ambiance of the restaurant, go for a simple, bright pieces that contrast with the mostly all white decor. A pop of color with any type of accessory would be a fun addition completing your look.  

$$/353 W Hubbard St

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Source: https://www.timeout.com/chicago/restaurant...

Favorite On Campus Coffee Spots: Olive x Dollop Coffee Co.

From finishing up your first quarter at UChicago, to wrapping up your final year in the College, you've undoubtedly spent at least some portion of your time here frequenting your favorite on campus coffee shop.

Whether you gravitate towards these places for a quick shot of caffeine, a study break between classes or to meet up with friends, we've decided to feature MODA bloggers as a part of the Blog's ongoing On Campus Coffee Spots series to discover the intersections between campus culture, fashion and of course, caffeine! Keep scrolling for our unique profile on Olive Lopez, a second year Psychology major and Gender Studies minor.

What kinds of RSOs and activities are you involved in on campus? 

I’m involved with the Maroon Business Team, Women in Business, Kappa Alpha Theta, and I write for MODA! 

Why is Dollop your favorite cafe on campus?

Dollop is my favorite café on campus because it’s close to my apartment and it has the best coffee and such a wide variety of snacks! I love their quiche (they have two different kinds a day) and savory pastries. There’s a lot of different spaces within Dollop so depending on what I want to do – read, hang out with friends, send emails – I can sit at a counter, at a 2-person table, or on a couch. It also has excellent lighting. Not just for taking pictures of my food and latte art, but I consistently fall asleep in other coffee houses on campus because the lighting is dark and I get sleepy very easily. 

How often do you come here?

I come about once a week – I live in the area and so it’s a great place to send emails between classes, or grab coffee or lunch with friends! The coffee is amazing and so much better than the other coffee options on campus but on the more expensive side compared to other coffee options on campus so I try to keep it to a treat.

What is the best type of activity to do here?

I love to come here and do readings on the couches in the corner, which are cozy but not cozy enough to fall asleep in. I also love to work on the long wooden tables and spread out my stuff so I can see it all and at least feel like I’m an organized person. Dollop is a great place to meet friends and have informal meetings – but it’s not a large enough space to invite your whole RSO. 

What’s your go-to drink?

Their cold brew coffee is my favorite – no matter what the weather is! Although if you ask me that in a couple of months, I’ll probably say their lattes. 

Best item on the menu?

The coffee, no doubt, but I also love the brie sandwich!  It’s perfectly satisfying for a light lunch, and the brie/pear/jam combination is delicious. During O-Week, I lived off of their breakfast sandwiches – they were the perfect size for a morning meal and had the perfect ratio of biscuit to egg! 

What are you wearing?

I’m wearing Madewell boots, a Forever21 skirt, a J. Crew blouse, a Skaagen watch (my favorite!), and a cursive necklace that says “San Francisco” that I found in a thrift store in Wicker Park. 

How would you describe your personal style?

All over the place, but never entirely in one place. I’ll never dress fully preppy or grunge, but I’ll wear my favorite pair of fuzzy leopard print vans with skinny jeans and a blouse. I like to mix it up – I love going to thrift stores in Chicago, and in San Francisco (where I’m originally from) and finding a cool scarf or pair of shoes and incorporating them into my wardrobe. 

All images courtesy of Jaire Byers. View his online photography portfolio here!

Where & Wear: 3 Arts Club Cafe

Nestled inside the airy atrium on Restoration Hardware's ground level, 3 Arts Club Cafe is the perfect brunch destination for foodies and photography aficionados alike. The short menu offers American-inspired fare, from truffled grilled cheese sandwiches to colorful salads and the ever popular RH Scramble (fresh avocado and scrambled eggs with creme fraiche, chives and Texas toast). Stay for dessert and you can pick from a list of sorbets, ice creams and warm chocolate chip cookies. 

From the marble countertops, velvet cushioned seating and copper toned teapots and utensils, it's impossible not to admire your surroundings as you munch on pastries or yogurt topped with fresh berries and house-made granola. For added effect, light seems to constantly dance off the bubbling fountain and low-hanging crystal chandeliers. 

In addition to dining in the cafe, visitors and shoppers are invited to peruse the multistory RH store and showroom–with a cup of coffee or glass of champagne in hand! The leafy rooftop garden and lounge offers nice views of the surrounding Gold Coast neighborhood (and is the perfect spot for impromptu photoshoots on sunny days). Throughout the rest of the store you'll find sleek, marble bathroom mockups, a contemporary art gallery and endless sofas, beds and fluffy rugs to lust after. 

Don't know what to wear? We recommend opting for a minimalist or monochrome look to offset the cafe's warmly lit interior. A neutral palette will also compliment the showroom's cool interiors, which predominantly feature white, grey and beige decor. Add a pop of color in your accessories to pull the look together. 

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$$ // 1300 N Dearborn St

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Quad Style: Jess Mora

Now that the cool temperatures are here to stay, we talked with Chicago native Jess about how she doesn't let the cold weather thwart her style. 

Hey Jess, who's your biggest fashion inspiration?

It's definitely a tie between Kendall Jenner and Cara Delevingne. They both have a great sense of style and aren't afraid to start their own trends. Both on and off the runway, they can pull off anything.

How would you describe your style?

I would say it's a mixture of 90's and contemporary wear. One of my favorite outfits is a pair of denim overalls paired with open heel heels. It makes me feel very retro, but also very much in season. I have also been trying to get into more Mexican style prints. I love the way they look and it makes me smile when I carry a part of my culture with me like that. 

What is your go-to outfit, and where do you like to shop?

That really depends on the season. For the fall, I absolutely love wearing leggings, sweater dresses, boots, and a parka if necessary. It's not only really comfortable, but also perfect for the windy Chicago falls.

Since I love mixing and matching items, I enjoy shopping at a bunch of different places to get a variety of pieces. Some of my favorites include Crossroads (a really great and inexpensive thrift store located around Chicago - check it out!), Francesca's, Nordstrom Rack, Express, Forever 21, and TJ Maxx. 

Jess pulling off a turtle neck. (skirt and turtle neck from Abercrombie & Fitch; shoes from Marshall's)

Jess pulling off a turtle neck. (skirt and turtle neck from Abercrombie & Fitch; shoes from Marshall's)

What's your favorite trend this season, and what's something you're trying to get trending?

Blanket Scarves! They are my absolute favorite. They make me feel very warm and cozy for the entire day. The scarves I own also have very colorful patterns on them, so I adore the pop of color that I get when I wear them. It really brightens my day.

Recently, I've been trying to bring back the denim on denim trend. I know it's very 90's, but I still think it looks cool. I'm a very 90's girl on the inside, so that might be why I'm very into those kinds of styles.

What's something you wish you could pull off?

I wish I could pull off turtle necks. It's one of those things that are perfect to wear in the fall and winter, but I can never get it to look good on me (note from the editor: this is not true - multiple people attest to the fact that Jess can pull of turtle necks!!). I currently only own one turtle neck and I wear it sparingly. I'm not in love with the way it looks on me. Yet.

What do you think is the most important part of any look?

Confidence. You can wear anything, just rock your look with confidence. It's the best accessory.

All images courtesy of Gabe Barrón

Feeds to Follow: infatuation_chi

School is now in full swing, and yes that may kill you a little on the inside. What brings me back to life is exploring the Chicago restaurant scene! Chicago has amazing restaurants and you can check out some of MODA's own reviews here. But if you need some inspiration and a little push, follow infatuation_chi on instagram for restaurant recommendations!

Reasons why I love infatuation_chi

Influenced by viewers- Many of the photos that are featured on the page are photos from real people like us. This allows the content that you encounter to be driven not entirely by commercial purposes but by pure food love. Also, many of the things that are featured are those restaurants' signature dishes, so you're already equipped with some ideas in mind before you even get there!

Synced to Google maps- Depending where the location is can determine where you want to go! Luckily many of the restaurants featured are synced to google maps so you can easily find the location. This feature is so convenient and makes your food hunting journey a lot easier. Also, because google maps shows the other nearby landmarks, you can always discover a quick place to stop by before or after your reservation.

Pure inspiration- Obviously Chicago is known for its amazing food, there's no doubt about that. But @infatuation_chi makes it so easy for you to be exposed to the food scene without much effort. Research is super simplified, and because they're all photos, you can more easily visualize the quality and quantity of food that you order. To be quite honest, I think it gives me hope for the school year, thinking that these restaurants can be my sweet (or savory) escape!

For more restaurant inspiration, check out @infatuation_chi!

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Dorm Decor: Fashion and Functionality

With fall quarter just around the corner, it's never too early to start thinking about dorm decor! And it's never too late to update your current room for a refresh. But space is often limited so you want to look out for pieces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some functional and affordable ways to organize and spruce up your room.

Hexagon Wall Cubbies

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These wall cubbies are absolutely adorable and are perfect for holding those random knick-knacks you never know where to store. Besides, dorm life shouldn't stop you from posting a carefully curated #shelfie to the 'gram. Use paint (or even cool duct tape) to personalize them to fit your space. So stop stuffing your drawers, and start using all that wasted wall space.

Starting at $14

Dry-Erase Calendar

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Dry-erase calendars are extremely helpful for getting your life on track so you don't miss important coffee dates, interviews, or your TA's office hours before the exam. Use command strips to hang it above your desk where you can easily keep track of it. Not only will your life be more organized, but your room will be cuter too.

$26

Jewelry Tree

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Never freak out about having to untangle your favorite necklaces again with this beautiful jewelry tree. Rest it on your desk where it can do double duty as decoration. For the crafty, a wash of gold spray paint perfectly complements your pretty baubles. Now you can stay organized and show off your cute necklaces and rings at the same time.

$20

Over-the-Door Hangers

Chicago weather is wildly unpredictable, so you never know when it's time to put away those winter coats for good. To clear the clutter, opt for an over the door hanger to keep coats out of the way and accessible at the same time, without hogging up precious space in your closet.

$23

Under-the-Bed Storage

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Lofted beds may be a pain to get in and out of, especially after a tough gym class but they do have lots of storage space underneath. Rather than shoving old boxes and unwanted clutter under your bed for everyone see, stuff all of it inside a classy little ottoman! And when you have people over, it can even be used as an extra seat.

$85

Whether you're thinking ahead to next year or doing some spring cleaning, there are plenty of ways to decorate your room for both style and functionality.

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What are your favorite space-saving tricks? Let us know in the comments below!

Source: http://www.modachicago.com/wp-content/uplo...

Not All "Fancy" Restaurants Are Worth Going To!

Yes, this does sound like a first world grievance. But just take a second and imagine this: you and your besties decided to treat yourselves with some delicious food after those seemly endless midterms that came one after another and for which you remained sleep-deprived for weeks. You know the feeling.

You hopped in an Uber after informing your roommate of your special dinner plan the whole day, and then found yourself at the entrance of the restaurant. Your expectation continued to build up as the server walked you to your reserved seats. Everything was perfect until you bite into the first appetizer. Of course, as a persistent person, you didn't lose hope. So you remained hopeful until the server brought up your dessert. No such luck.

To help you retain your faith in Chicago's culinary industry, here are a few places to avoid:

  • Berghoff Catering & Restaurant Group

IMHO, Berghoff is destined to take the first place on this list. There is nothing inherently wrong with it; it's just simply not good. Is it really worth it to commute all the way to downtown to have some uninteresting food that tastes unappealingly bland? Honestly, you are probably better off saving your money and eating at the dining hall. Yup, just goes to show how utterly not-worth-it this place is.

  • The Purple Pig

Greasy! Greasy! Greasy! No other word can better characterize their dishes. Personally, I'd rather dine at an establishment that doesn't leave me on the verge of a heart attack after the meal, and this is why The Purple Pig finds itself on the list. Don't get me wrong, the food itself is pretty good, but the copious amounts of grease in every dish I ordered simply made me feel unwell after. That being said, if you enjoy eating butter plain, by all means you should try their roast bone marrow.

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What famous restaurants don't live up to the hype? Let us know in the comments below!

Source: http://www.modachicago.com/wp-content/uplo...

The Ultimate Fall Quarter Restaurant Roundup

1 - Scofflaw Bar

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Located in the heart of Logan Square, the Scofflaw bar, restaurant and lounge features an extensive and eclectic cocktail list in a vintage, warmly lit atmosphere. Their craft beers and parmesan truffle fries come highly recommended. 

2 - The Allis at Soho House

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Perfect for weekend brunch or grabbing a small bite to eat, the Allis at Soho House is nestled amongst the chic West Loop/Fulton River neighborhoods. From the delicate chinaware to its comfy armchairs, stop in for early morning tea and return in the evening to see the venue transformed into a intimate bar. You can also venture upstairs to the Chicken & Farm Shop restaurant for all rotisserie related cravings. 

3 - The Pump Room

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A couple blocks north of Chicago Ave. in Downtown, the Pump Room boasts an impressive New American menu, from its delicious whole wheat flatbread pizzas to its well rounded brunch menu. Worth the visit if Challah french toast with caramelized apples and smoked bacon or sunny side up frittata with bacon, roasted asparagus and chilies sounds appealing. 

4 - Grange Hall Burger Bar

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With plenty of farm-to-table options in a rustic, farmhouse setting, Grange Hall prides itself on serving grass fed meats alongside organic and locally sourced fruits and veggies. Perfect for ethically inclined diners or anyone who loves really good ice cream.

5 - The Publican

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The perfect destination for meat eaters, this West Loop/Fulton River favorite serves an abundance of fish and pork-centric dishes on long, communal tables. From spicy pork rinds and butter clams, to fried quail or beef tongue for more adventurous eaters, pair any dish with the Publican's extensive craft beer list for a hearty, savory meal. 

6 - Antique Taco

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With a rotating seasonal menu of Tex-Mex inspired tacos and appetizers, stop inside this Wicker Park favorite for reasonably priced Sloppy Joe empanadas, chili cheese curds and house rosemary margaritas. 

7 - Parlor Pizza Bar

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With its craft beers and wood fired pies, Parlor Pizza has become a favorite and highly frequented pizzeria in the West Loop neighborhood. Its outdoor patio and well-worn picnic tables are the perfect backdrop for pizzas topped with everything from gyro meat, guacamole and whipped ricotta to shaved brussel sprouts, lemon zest and roasted apples! 

8 - Dusek's Board and Beer

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Swing by Pilsen for a taste of Dusek's innovative pub grub. Their brunch menu features eclectic pairings like beet cured salmon Benedict or coffee and chili crusted hanger steak and egg. Dinner options include crab tortellini and sweet corn risotto and an endless draft list.

9 - RM Champagne Salon

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Treat yourself to RM Champagne Salon for wine, beer and cocktails amidst a marble fire place and warmly lit chandeliers. A light dinner and cheese and dessert menu are also offered at this chic, upscale West Loop champagne bar. 

10 - Sawada Coffee

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Famous for its green tea lattes, boozy steamers and specialty donuts, Sawada's rustic feel combines cold drip coffee alongside ping pong tables, stylized murals and Macbook toting coffee drinkers. Shares a space with Green Street Smoked Meats for anyone looking for house-smoked Texas BBQ after they get their caffeine fix. 

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Feeds to Follow: thingsbylauren

We're spicing up our Feeds to Follow to showcase some student work! Our first artist is Lauren Han, and her handle is @thingsbylauren!

Hi Lauren, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I’m a second year Econ and Visual Arts major (as of right now) from Los Angeles, California.

What inspired you to take up art?
I think it was the idea that if I really wanted something, I could try and make it myself- things like posters for my room, Snapchat geofilters, etc. Especially in this day and age when modern art can be as simple as one color slapped onto a square canvas. It’s something I turn to when I’m stressed, frustrated, upset, or just bored while I’m watching TV. A creative outlet.

Why choose digital media/photoshop instead of a more traditional medium? I’ve always really liked graphic design and digital art. I started to teach myself Photoshop when I was in 8th grade, just because I was bored. Digital media flows better with me and it’s much easier to control and fix. All I have to do is hit Command + Z to erase a mistake, while with physical forms of art like paint and sculpture it’s not as easy. I also love how clean digital art is, and how there are a million different ways you could take it. It’s actually incredible how advanced programs like Photoshop and Illustrator are- you can do basically anything with them.

Tell us more about your creative process!
I started doing these illustrations recently because my mom wanted a cool artsy poster of our dog for the house (we’re all pretty obsessed with our dog, just about anyone can confirm that). I take pictures or stock photos and I use them as a reference while I draw. I’m drawn towards working with pictures of food, animals, flowers, etc. I draw a lot of things that have some sort of meaning to me.

Do you have any future plans with your graphic designs on campus? Could be for an RSO or just in your free time?
Yes! I’ve actually made a few of the on-campus Snapchat geofilters. I lived in New Grad last year and made that one, as well as the “Go Maroons” one that covers most of campus. I also did the geofilter for Delta Upsilon’s house. I’ve done smaller projects here and there, like designing T-shirts and logos for an RSO, a personal project, and for a frat party. That’s something I’d love to continue doing, assuming people ask!

Last question! Art is only one page of your story, so what other things are you involved in on campus?
I’m a graphic design intern in the Communications department at the Harris School for Public Policy. I’m also the visual design editor for MODA Magazine, the designer for The Maroon’s business team, and a part of Greek life.

To check out Lauren's other work, check out her instagram @thingsbylauren!

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If you know any student artists you'd like to feature, please email julietlee@uchicago.edu