Craving something different from the Haussmann buildings and endless boulangeries of Paris, I took a weekend trip to the former Eastern bloc to the city of Prague.
Read MoreWhere & Wear: Gilt Bar
Gilt Bar masters the vintage European feel without feeling too out of date. Tucked away in River North, the restaurant's low lit chandeliers, plush red sofas and customized photo booth create the perfect backdrop for decently priced dinner and desserts, along with an extensive drink and craft cocktail menu.
I would definitely recommend any of their delicious pasta dishes. My friend and I tried the Truffle Pasta and Orecchiette, which were flavorful and perfectly proportioned to leave room for dessert! The menu's "on toast" looked equally satisfying and ideal for splitting amongst friends. The warm brownies with vanilla ice cream made for an indulgent dessert – the large portion of three large slices makes it ideal for sharing!
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The service was fast and attentive, and a glass of table red or white was only $5. The upstairs area was slightly rowdier and home to a lively bar. For something more relaxed and conducive to conversation, venture downstairs for a more intimate group or date setting with a Jazz Age, speakeasy feel.
Image via
Gilt Bar is chic, but don't overdo it. Several diners were casually dressed, others appeared to be coming from work or a show. Especially as winter snow flurries surround us, opt for warmth over excessive style! Check out the Gilt Bar for date nights, birthday parties, or a pre-show dinner.
10 Ways to Get Smarter Over Breakfast
Keeping up with current events may seem like a lot of work. There is so much going on in the world and who has time to sit down with a newspaper and flip through it all (and if you do, well lucky you). With a rapidly increasing number of media companies offering "morning briefings" to be read quickly over a cup of coffee or while waiting on line, "I don't have time to stay informed" is no longer a good enough excuse. Think of it as working out for your brain - just 10 minutes every day quickly adds up to make a difference. So next time a "that kid" brings up Theresa May and Brexit or the AT&T/Time Warner merger, you'll know what's up.
1. theSkimm: "Making it easier to be smarter" is the big idea behind theSkimm, a daily email newsletter beloved by Oprah, Trevor Noah, Reese Witherspoon, Olivia Culpo, and Leslie Odom Jr. Covering politics as well as current events, it's an easy way to keep up to date on all the biggest headlines of the day. Think of them as your slightly more knowledgeable, sassy older cousin keeping you in the loop. Plus you get cool Skimm swag for free through a simple referral program. Sign up here!
2. Maroon newsletter: Stay on top of all the latest happenings on campus and around Chicago with the Chicago Maroon's newsletter which goes out on Tuesday and Friday mornings. You can also stay on top of events happening on and around campus on their new events page.
3. Refinery29 This AM: Refinery29's app is sleek and easy to use. Simply swipe through the 8 cards to read the biggest headlines in politics, pop culture, sports and entertainment in less time than it takes to order your morning triple venti half sweet non-fat caramel macchiato at Starbucks.
4. NYT Morning Briefing: Get the best of the best in journalism with a daily briefing on the biggest stories of the day. You can choose other free newsletters covering a wide variety of topics - from weekly travel deals, op-eds, staff TV recommendations, personal finance to science.
5. Morning Brew: Similar to theSkimm but a little less snarky and with a greater focus on markets, Morning Brew is daily newsletter with updates about some of the world's largest and most relevant companies with links for more stories and stocks.
6. Economist Espresso: The accompanying app to the news magazine is published 6 days a week, focusing on current events and markets and a Saturday issue dedicated to sports and culture. Slightly lengthier, but with clear (and sometimes witty) prose, the Economist Espresso is pretty much the only coffee I consume on the regular. Bonus, it's free in the App Store.
7. Recode Daily: A daily email newsletter from tech site re/code, this one has a more tech/media focus, keeping you in the loop of the latest in those industries as well trending stories on their site for more leisure reading.
8. WSJ MoneyBeat: This newsletter is more markets focused, covering the biggest stories affecting Wall Street, stocks to watch as well as links to other articles for more market coverage. Definitely more of a leisurely breakfast read rather than scan the screen as you scurry across the quad but a must for those interested in finance! The WSJ also offers other specific daily newsletters covering the White House, Brexit, tech and more.
9. AP News: Keep up with the day's breaking stories with this news app from the Associated Press. Set customized alerts for updates on stories you care about and explore more in depth context about topics that matter to you with their "topic hubs".
10. Vox Sentences: Read through a curated briefing on a wide variety of topics with one to two sentence headline summaries and check out links to more comprehensive articles if you have extra time.
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Your Galentine's Day Guide
What to do and where to go with your best gal pals.
Read MoreWhat's In My Bag: Belle
The Bags
I wish I could rock some of the pastel colored backpacks Herschel has, but I'm a pretty monochromatic person and a plain black backpack just makes things easier. My Herschel Backpack is my staple piece for school. After carrying a leather tote everyday for two years, I needed to give my shoulders a break. This backpack is not only lightweight, it's super capacious. I typically carry two notebooks, my planner, one or two books, and my 15in. MacBook Pro and there's still space for more. I got my backpack from Urban Outfitters' mens section. Head over to the UO downtown or click on the link above to check out Herschel's other models!
Balenciaga Giant 12 Gold Mini City
I am obsessed with bags and purses and WOCs and totes but I always find my way to my Balenciaga Mini City. I carry it LITERALLY. EVERYWHERE. For brunch in the city, traveling, or hanging out with friends, this is what you want. The Balenciaga mini city is so sturdy and holds surprisingly much for its size. Its black and gold color scheme goes with every outfit. If you're like me and likes to wear black on black on black, this Balenciaga is the perfect way to add an accent to your outfit without really trying. I recommend going for the lambskin rather than other leather for this bag, just because the toughness keeps the purse's shape better and longer.
image via Belle Chen
Content in the bag!
For School
Planner
Moleskine 18 Month Academic Planner
I use this planner on the daily to remind myself of assignment due dates and deadlines. For me, having a physical copy of my reminders help me stay on top of things. It is oddly satisfying when I checkmark every task I've completed!
image via Belle Chen
There is also an 18-month calendar in this planner, which I use to mark dates I travel and multi-day events.
Stationary
MUJI. MUJI. MUJI. Need I say more? I'm obsessed with the simplicity of their products. The ink also flows super nicely. Muji Online Store US
For Everyday Wear
Skincare/Cosmetics:
Mario Badescu Rose Water Spray L'Occitane Hand Cream
This Mario Badescu Rose Water is the bomb. I spray it on my face and hair more often than needed, but why not? The spray contains aloe and keeps my skin hydrated and refreshed throughout the day. I also use it to set my makeup sometimes if I'm only wearing some bronzer and don't want my face to feel heavy. If you're wearing a full face make up, though, this Urban Decay Setting Spray will keep you matte for the long day (or night).
I have very dry hands, especially during the winter. I carry a travel size L'Occitane hand cream with me at all times. This product has one of the highest Shea butter content among all hand creams on the market (so I was told by a Sephora shopper), so it keeps my hands moisturized and soft.
Fresh Sugar Lip Therapy Tom Ford Lipstick in Indian Rose
This Fresh lip balm is honestly amazing. It has a subtle citrus scent and reminds me of a lemon sorbet. It is also a light weight base for my lipstick, hydrating my lips without adding too much oil that can prevent the lip color from setting in.
I'm obsessed with the shade Indian Rose by Tom Ford. It's a combination of a metallic finish and a creamy dusty rose color. It's great for everyday wear but also goes well with a heavier eye makeup.
Electronics:
myCharge Portable Charger with Chords and Built-in Wall Prongs
I got this portable charger as I was waiting to board at O'Hare. It is truly a lifesaver. It's carry-on sage! The built-in chords and wall prongs make my life so much easier and I don't even have to worry about bringing my charger or untangling the chord. This portable charger can charge my iPhone 6s up to 4 times. It also recharges super fast when plugged into the wall.
Featured image via
Valentine's Day: Chicago Desserts
Valentine's Day is steadily approaching! If you don't want to do the standard box of chocolates or you can't cook to save your life, check out our dessert list compiled by our bloggers down below to satisfy that sweet tooth! Whether you go with your S.O. or your friends, I promise you won't be disappointed.
❤️ Bombobar: Plump bombolini's, home-made gelato, and over-the-top hot chocolate? Bombobar's cute walk up window is a great place to stop by in the Fulton Market District if you're looking for a dessert to complete your Valentine's Day meal.
❤️ Jeni's Ice Cream: My favorite ice-cream spot in all of Chicago- Jeni's in Wicker Park offers a variety of unique flavors like Brambleberry Crisp and Pink Grapefruit Buttermilk Frozen Yogurt to the classics like Milkiest Chocolate and Ndali Estate Vanilla Bean. Don't forget to get the ice-cream in one of their home-made waffle cones.
❤️ Mindy's Hot Chocolate: Another favorite in Wicker Park, the hot chocolate will warm you and your date right up. House-made marshmallows melt in your mouth, and if you're looking for that extra kick, Mindy's can spike your favorite chocolate with a shot of brandy, cognac, or rum. Check out MODA's review of Mindy's here!
❤️ Firecakes: If you're looking to satisfy your sweet tooth with donuts, Firecakes in River North is your classic Chicago donut joint! One of our bloggers suggested getting the ice-cream donut sandwich, and my personal tip is getting the mint ice-cream for the inside.
❤️ More Cupcakes: Recommended by one of our bloggers, More Cupcakes, located in River North, will satisfy that cupcake craving. The interior is chic and modern, and if you're looking for something to take back home, this would be the perfect dessert.
❤️ Pierrot Gourmet: If you're trying to impress your date, Pierrot Gourmet in the Peninsula Hotel in River North is the place to go! Their wide variety of pastries will cater to a multitude of taste buds, and one of our bloggers, Angie Kan, suggested the apple cobbler!
❤️ Honey Dessert: If you're looking for a fun dessert that's perfect to share, Honey Dessert's shaved ice in Chinatown is what you should look for. It's even recommended by our EIC, Ashley Xu.
Hopefully this guide has helped you find some inspiration. Have a wonderful Valentine's Day from the Blog!
Featured image courtesy of Juliet Lee
Look for Less: Valentine's Day Date
Made plans for Valentine's Day with someone special, but don't know what to wear? MODA's got you covered on everything from a casual coffee date to an intimate dinner for two!
❤️ DAY TIME CASUAL LOOK ❤️
Don't overthink things, a cute and casual look will put you at ease. Wear varying shades of pink and red if you're really into the whole Valentine's Day vibe, or opt for something less festive–whatever feels most authentic to you!
❤️ EVENING FORMAL LOOK ❤️
There's no better excuse to up the ante with an amazing outfit than date night on Valentine's Day. If you don't feel like being super dressy, throw on a nice coat or a pair of killer shoes to make a slightly more subdued statement.
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What's In My Bag: Olivia
In all honesty, I'm not the biggest fan of pocketbooks and tote bags. I find most of them too fussy or inconvenient to carry around, and prefer the comfort and versatility of a backpack. I've been using my Fjallraven Kånken as a schoolbag and purse for almost two years now and love how compact it is. It's just large enough to fit my laptop and textbooks, portable enough to drag downtown and weatherproof to a certain extent. They're also really fun to customize–I sewed on this Chinese opera mask patch last summer and like to accessorize with pins every now and then. Check out Fjallraven's website here.
I have this massive wallet and it's such a hassle to carry, so for the most part I use this Leather Pouch from Madewell for classes. It's the perfect size to store my UCID, a couple cards and some cash. I also got mine monogrammed with my initials, which I'm pretty sure you can get done at most Madewell stores for around $10. They have a lot of size and color options, which you can shop on their website here.
I definitely prefer lip stains and tinted chapsticks to products with glossy or matte finishes. Something nourishing is essential during the winter months and I try to look for cruelty free and USDA organic products. Neutrogena's MoistureSmooth Color Stick in Juicy Peach and Fiction's Lip Tint in shade Sydney are some of my current favorites.
Recently, I’ve become more and more reliant on my journal for jotting down ideas and keeping track of longer term projects. I prefer journals with blank pages in case I need to work on a design for class or an RSO. My Moleskine comes with a compartment in the back for storing documents which is an added bonus! Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters also have a lot of fairly inexpensive and attractive options.
My pencil case is constantly overstuffed with pens. I’ll go for anything that’s precise—fine point Sharpies are great for taking notes, Pigma Microns from 005-02 are really good for drafting and sketching and I really like STABILO point 88 pens for their colors. If you want to splurge, Copic markers render larger blocks of color and shading in perfectly even tones. You can find all of these at the Blick art store on State St.
While I definitely don't carry my Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 everyday, I like to bring it on weekend excursions and outings with friends. It's such a fun way to document special moments in your life and I love to display them on my wall or in tiny Polaroid frames–which you can get from Urban Outfitters for fairly cheap. I buy my film in bulk from Amazon.
Featured image via Olivia Jia
Feeds to Follow: @the.wing
Ever thought the radical women's club movement at the turn-of-the-century was in need of some reviving? Look no further than The Wing, a newly opened women's club based in New York City that describes itself as "a home base for women on their way."
Co-founded by Audrey Gelman and Lauren Kassan, The Wing provides various amenities and work spaces for its members, in addition to hosting influential panel discussions and guest lecturers, mostly revolving around the themes of politics, policy, female empowerment and entrepreneurship.
Where & Wear: The Dearborn
Chicago does New American food the best, and its definitely shown through The Dearborn. Located in South Loop on Dearborn (hence the name), this American upscale tavern serves up hearty, mouth-watering dishes.
For appetizers, look into their steamed mussels. The soup they serve it with is AMAZING and perfect for dipping with their bread. I was hesitant about the roasted marrow of beef, but it was the best thing I ate at The Dearborn. Eaten with bread, the marrow provides a rich and buttery experience. I also enjoyed the tartare of venison.
For mains, my friends and I shared the wild striped bass, beef oxtails, and rabbit & curry pot pie. At this point, I was way too stuffed from the appetizers to enjoy the mains, but was nonetheless impressed with the tastes.
The restaurant is warm and relaxed, so feel free to wear something more casual. Pair a cute top or a bodysuit with some jeans (with a stretchy waistband of course) and add a pair of booties, and you're good to go! Or, opt for a skirt paired with a slouchy sweater and thigh high boots.
145 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60602 // $$ // American Restaurant
Featured image courtesy of Ashley Xu
I Went On a Chocolate Tour in Paris. Spoiler: I Still Love Nutella
Can the decadence of Parisian chocolate turn me off my beloved Nutella?
Read MoreFavorite On Campus Coffee Spots: Yamini x Hallowed
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 Yamini Nambimadom, a first year potentially majoring in Economics or Public Policy, with a minor in Theater & Performance Studies.
1. What kinds of RSOs and activities are you involved in on campus?
Off Off Campus, photographer and writer for MODA Magazine, photographer for MODA Blog, Photo & Video Intern at the Center for Identity & Inclusion.
2. Why is Hallowed Grounds your favorite cafe on campus?
Hallowed has an old-school college bar feel, with the gothic windows, pool tables, and dimly lit atmosphere. Every barista plays soft, relaxing songs from their own personal playlist (usually very well-curated), which, mixed with occasional chatter, creates a comforting background noise. Located in Reynolds Club, it's pretty central to most of campus, which makes it really easy to pop in before and after classes and work. The baristas are so sweet and I've often had great conversations with some of them.
3. How often do you come here?
I usually stop by at least once a day! My favorite time to go is in the evenings, because the crowd dies down and the music is usually more soothing.
4. What is the best type of activity to do here?
I love reading here, because the background noise is quiet enough for a focused environment but lively enough not to be intimidating. If I can snatch a table, I also like to work on papers here. The ambience really stimulates my brain like no other work space has! It's also always a lovely place to get a snack and chat with a friend.
5. What’s your go-to drink?
The Chai! They make it with extra cinnamon, so it's truly an experience. It's sweet, spicy, and has a great kick to it.
6. Best item on the menu?
I tend not to *eat* very often at Hallowed, but their croissants are delicious!
7. What are you wearing?
A distressed knit cardigan from Missguided, a mock neck tank top I thrifted, a pastel floral envelope skirt from Forever 21, UNIQLO HeatTech tights (I want to be cute but I want to be warm too, y'know?), cream knit socks from Target, and my Jeffery Campbell Chelsea Rainboots!
8. How would you describe your personal style?
Kind of all over the place? I love following trends, but I also draw my inspiration from all over the place. I watch people in the airport and scope out cool pieces they're working, I watch old sitcoms and draw from some of their outfits, and I pore over fashion blogs and style guides. I guess I would say my style is girly and glam with a bit of an edge to it. I like soft textures and muted colors but I also love throwing in leather, distressed pieces, biker boots, chokers, etc.
All images courtesy of Kiran Misra. Check out her photography portfolio here.
Kick Up Your Cocoa a Notch
Add a little oomph to your favorite winter drink.
Read MoreWhat's In My Bag: Kathryn
What are the essentials that the MODA bloggers carry from class to class and around downtown? This quarter we will be featuring each blogger's personal bag and their favorite items to stow and use, as well as where to find these products. So what can't the fashionable bloggers of MODA not live without?
Up next is Kathryn's tragically overstuffed, DIY patch emblazoned, and frequently linty backpack!
Read MoreDocumenting the Women's March on Washington
With over 1 million individuals turning out to march on Washington, DC and over 5 million showing their support at sister marches around the world, the Women's March on Washington stands as a powerful signifier of how far our country has yet to travel in the struggle for equality–and how many individuals around the world will be fighting beside us along the way.
I had the privilege of attending the March on Washington myself, and remain in awe of the determination, creativity, fury, frustration and sense of unity that surrounded me last Saturday. The turnout in DC was overwhelming–seas of protestors were visible from every direction, occupying the entirety of the National Mall’s nearly two mile span. Later on when the march officially began, the crowds left downtown DC at a standstill.
As a first time voter, November left me astounded and aghast at the state of American politics and my own place in its grand schema–and I'm sure many of you share this sentiment. The results were disheartening, to say the least, especially for those who feel Trump’s persona and policies promote a culture of intolerance and fear unfit for a democracy founded on our principles of equality.
The March was a beautiful, much needed reminder of the importance of solidarity and activism under times of political and social uncertainty. Whether marchers were advocating for women’s and reproductive rights, the LGBT+ community, minority representation, immigration reform, climate policy, religious pluralism, or something else entirely, every individual stood for equality, acceptance and love. The sense of community and support was unspoken and firmly established the moment you stepped foot into a crowd or met eyes with someone marching beside you.
While Trump’s policies, appearance and actions were the undisputed target of a majority of the chants, conversations, signs and speeches I witnessed, the overarching dialogue was one of hope. Throughout the day, people were praying together, confiding in one another and forming connections that transcended gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity or ability. A collective identity emerged amongst strangers, bearing the message: I see you, I hear you and I am with you. I can only hope that this collective consciousness will remain intact in the years and months to come.
Funny signs and slogans aside, here are some ways you can stay active and keep the opposition alive:
1. Complete the Women's March 10 Actions for the first 100 days to do list and sign up for their newsletter to stay up to date on their various initiatives.
2. Call your local representatives, express your concerns and propose solutions.
3. Donate to Planned Parenthood, the Environmental Defense Fund, the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, or any other cause you feel passionate about.
4. Download the fact checking Google Chrome/Firefox extension for Trump tweets.
5. Set a reminder to vote for your Congressmen in November 2018.
6. Volunteer for a local organization you care about or plan an event in your community–grassroots movements can lead to concrete policy changes.
7. Download the FREE app Countable onto your phone. It provides the contact information for your local representatives and senators. You also can select what topics you are most concerned about and the app will give you notifications when a vote on a bill is coming up that you might be worried about.
8. Download the Indivisible Guide to learn more about local groups and the most effective ways you can reach Congress.
9. Help register voters for upcoming elections.
10. Stay nasty!
All images courtesy of Olivia Jia
5 Easy Ways to Be Greener This Year
Going green in 2017 is about more than just Pantone's color of the year.
Read MoreHere's Looking At You, Kid
In the trip of a lifetime we went from palm trees, to snow-covered mountains and snow monkeys, to Christmas in the desert with camels like a real Nativity scene, to lush oases, ringing in the new year in a small beach-town.
Read MoreWhat's In My Bag: Kardelen
What are the essentials that the MODA bloggers carry from class to class and around downtown? This quarter we will be featuring each blogger's personal bag and their favorite items to stow and use, as well as where to find these products. So what can't the fashionable bloggers of MODA not live without? First up is my bag!
The Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs Mini Natasha Crossbody Bag, purchased here.
Effortlessly chic in excellent quality leather, I use this small bag to go exploring downtown as well as when I'm in a rush and need to stash a few items. I bought this for myself as a "congratulations-you-survived-first-year" present upon returning for my second year, and I am beyond happy with the purchase. Next up are the array of items I cannot leave outside of this bag.
The Contents:
1. The Wallet: Fossil Bella Bifold Wallet in Black.
Although this wallet isn't sold anymore, it is a favorite leather good of mine for the sleek quality of its leather and its tremendous holding capabilities. It fits absolutely perfectly into my purse and even functions as a clutch when I need it most. Buy a similar one at fossil.com! Image courtesy of macys.com.
2. Tide to Go Pen
When I am out and about wearing that lovely new top from Aritzia that I just scored, the idea of getting it stained sends me into paroxysms of stress (who has time to dry clean everything anymore?), so to prevent those onsets of terror, I carry this handy dandy little pen with me in the convenient zip pouch at the top of the purse. Buy it here.
3. Smashbox Full Exposure Mini Palette
This is the damn cutest palette that God ever graced us with, and not only because it is the size of a credit card (really). The colors in it are neutral, pigmented and perfect for that on-the-go brow filling job or for just a quick swipe of shimmer to wake up tired eyes from spending ten hours in the Reg. Buy this little sweet thing here.
4. Maybelline Dream Wonder Powder
As a chronic sufferer of shiny, shiny skin, the best way for me to prevent midday makeup crises is to carry some light, mattifying pressed powder on hand. Pressed powder is perfect to carry in a purse because it won't make a mess like loose powder will. Buy it here.
5. Skyn The Antidote Cooling Lotion
Living in such a harsh environment is hard on the skin, so in order to preserve the suppleness of youth, I use a lotion on my face before going out (read :all the time) and my personal favorite is the lush and lavish Skyn Cooling Lotion. It feels like a cold slap in the face, but in the good, tingly, invigorating way, and leaves my skin feeling smooth, moisturized and (almost) ready for the Chicago wind. Buy it here.
6. TONYMOLY Peach Lip Balm
I bought this because it was cute, and it is. It also smells magnificent with great staying power, even if it is very light to the touch. It's more of a conversation piece than a real heavy duty lip balm for the winter, but I enjoy having a little touch of the whimsy in my otherwise very functional and (hopefully) mature purse. Buy it here!
Featured image via
Wake-Up Shake Up
Don't let bad weather stop you from sticking to your New Year's resolution to get in shape.
Read MoreBite-Sized Resolutions for the New Year
Hopefully these five of mine give you a little inspiration on some baby-step-themed resolutions to add to your list.
Read More