Spotlight on Audrey Hepburn: A Fashion Icon with Beautiful Words

Fashion isn’t only about great clothes. For some, fashion is a way of life. There is a woman in particular who changed the world of women’s fashion and also left behind great messages. Audrey Hepburn came from poverty but left a significant impact on the fashion industry as well as the people she influenced. Here is an introduction on her back-story, rise to stardom and most importantly, her inspiring words. 

Audrey Hepburn (1929-1993): Audrey was an iconic Academy Award-winning actress, fashion model and humanitarian. She was born in Brussels, Belgium, and attended private schools in England and the Netherlands. Her father left her family when she was young, which she recalled as very traumatic. During World War II, Audrey and her mother went into hiding and endured the Dutch famine. Audrey suffered from malnutrition and developed many health problems, but she danced ballet to collect money and take her mind off the hunger. “The impact of these times would shape her life and values,” notes an Audrey fan site.  After the war, Audrey and her mother moved to London where she began studying ballet, modeling and acting. Her acting career really took off when she starred in Roman Holiday with Gregory Peck. After this defining role, she went on to star in several big films of the time and became a fashion icon with her style still being emulated today. Audrey made the boyish, tailored look very popular for her time. She introduced ballet flats and added elegant hats, scarves and sunglasses to accessorize outfits. However, she emphasized that beauty comes from within, which is seen in this famous quote:  

Audrey is defined as a woman who changed the world by biographyonline.net. They state, "Audrey Hepburn defined feminine glamour and dignity, and was later voted as most beautiful women of the twentieth century. After her acting career ended in the mid 1960s, she devoted the remaining period of her life to humanitarian work with UNICEF."  

"Audrey had the reputation of being a humble, kind and charming person, who lived the philosophy of putting others before herself," said audrey1.org. 

Sources: 

-http://www.audrey1.org/biography/7/short-biography-of-audrey-hepburn

-www.biographyonline.net/people/women-who-changed-world.html‎

Emerging Men's Trend: Outdoorsman

Mood board I created for Collection Theory class of

inspiration behind Men's Autumn/Winter '14 Collection

Last year at this time, I was hard at work in Italy with a final project for my Collection Theory class, which entailed creating mood boards and illustrations from the design concept, “American Dream.” My professor was a known fashion designer in the Florence area and had worked at major Italian fashion houses. Needless to say, he was very particular about our work, especially when it came to the illustrations. Since I had limited drawing skills my only advantage for the project was that I was likely the most familiar with the theme "American Dream." Actually, I am sure I was, because I was the only American in the class. I could go on about this cultural experience, but to focus on the topic at hand– the project was very challenging. Although the frustration during the drawing part almost killed me, creating the mood boards was one of the most enjoyable class work experiences I have ever had.  I have always loved creating mood boards, and since I was 14, I have turned the walls of every room I’ve lived in into an assemblage of themed fashion collages.

Editorial featuring Steffen Norgaard

For the men’s collection, I gravitated towards an “outdoorsman” theme. I’ve always thought the outdoors was inspiring and I am most familiar with this concept from living in Montana and Minnesota. I was channeling my dad and my Uncle Joel (who lives in the Northern MN woods) as inspirations behind the collection. Both men are into hunting, fishing and spending time outdoors. I bought a huge men’s fashion magazine from a nearby negozio and began clipping runway pictures from fall and winter fashion lines. There were several design concepts, but I gravitated towards leather, fur and wool fabrics in earth tones of brown, burgundy, tan and forest green with woodsy, outdoor backgrounds. After styling the board, my “outdoors” theme had come to life.

Atelier de L'Armee autumn/winter

 2013/14

Now, a year later, this theme is literally coming to life. Fashion trend forecasting and analysis website, WGSN, describes the theme as “nomadic mountain man. Wild and rustic, rugged and hardwearing.” They say it's inspired by the wild and nomadic spirit of mountain men, fusing outdoors styling and workwear functionality with folk and Navajo-inspired prints and pattern. So men, if you are interested in trying this trend here is what you need to know:

• Key Items: leather jacket, quilted vest, paraffin-waxed jacket, flannel button-downs, corduroy pants, fur hat and knit beanie
• Colors: Earthy palette of olive greens, soft browns, and rustic reds accentuated by ochre (subdued mustard) and leafy green details
• Fabrics: Paraffin-waxed cottons, soft waterproof moleskins, cotton twills, corduroy, leather, fur, and canvas with beads, feathers and rope serving as embellishments
• Print & Pattern: Navajo-inspired patterns and folk prints along with traditional lumberjack plaids

Atelier de L'Armee autumn/winter 2013/14

This trend is a 2014 Autumn/Winter trend and although we are only approaching spring, you can still find ways to incorporate the look and be ahead of it when it gets big across mass retailers. My styling suggestion is to get a leather jacket in brown or black, because it’s versatile for both spring and fall weather.  Leather jackets are wonderful to have and they work well for casual attire or a night downtown. Throw it on and you'll instantly look a little more badass. If leather isn't your style, quilted or padded vests and jackets are also very popular among this trend. They're a little more casual and look great layered with a long sleeve fitted tee underneath. Another idea is to get something with a Navajo print, either a button-down flannel shirt or scarf would be trendy and unique. Otherwise, traditional lumberjack plaid flannel also showcases the trend. 

 

If you want to be a fashion innovator, meaning you’re the first to try new trends before they hit the mainstream, then go out and showcase your mountain man side!

Navajo-inspired pattern shacket by 

Ralph Lauren 

Will you try this trend? Would you consider yourself an outdoorsman? 

      

Sources: 

-WGSN. (25 March 2014). Mountain man: outdoors emerging trend.http://www.wgsn.com.proxy.library.ndsu.edu/content/report/Trend_Analysis/Sport/2014/03mar/mountain_man.html

  

 

Are You a Shopaholic?

One of my all-time favorite books is "Confessions of a Shopaholic," which was turned into a hilarious romantic comedy. In the book and film, Rebecca Bloomwood is hiding the fact that she is a shopaholic from her family, coworkers, love interest and most of all, herself. I  am sure many of us have referred to ourselves as a "shopaholic," at some point or other, most likely after a shopping trip that has left us feeling slightly guilty. I know I have. What makes Becky’s situation so ironic is that she acquires a journalism position at "Successful Savings," a financial savings magazine (with the hope of working her way up to a fashion magazine). Yet, she is $16,000 in debt. In addition to watching the film (a great excuse to see it again) and looking into psychology research on traits and habits of a shopaholic, I found some interesting information pointing towards the question of -- am I and are you a shopaholic?

Healthmeup.com author, Pinto states, “Being a shopaholic is a common habit these days. Most of us wish to have unlimited access to shop at a giant shopping centre, and many of us are also aware of terms like – ‘Shopaholics,’ ‘Shop till you drop,’ or ‘I exist because I shop.’” Below are a couple common signs of shopping symptoms that could mean you’re a shopaholic...

Do you have merchandise still in shopping bags in your closet or items that still have the tags on? Ellisor says that if you have forgotten about some of these possessions then that’s a problem. Becky has a closet full of new and unworn clothes but when it comes time for an upcoming event at her workplace she insists she needs a new dress until her best friend reminds her of a gorgeous dress hanging unworn in her closet. If you have items in your closet that have never seen the light of the day, then you could be a certified shopaholic, says Pinto.

Are you tempted by things you don’t necessarily need? “A store can awaken a lust for things you never even knew you needed!” proclaims Becky. In this case, you are easily tempted to buy what you see, even though you don’t need it, just to make yourself happy. You may be particularly vulnerable to this if you have a materialistic obsession to luxury or designer items, such as shoes or handbags, explains Ellisor.

Do you get a rush when you make new purchases? Getting a buzz from the act of retail acquisition is a notable shopaholic characteristic listed by Svoboda in "Psychology Today". “The dopamine rush and connection between pointless purchasing and feeling better is closely associated with shopaholic behavior,” explains Pinto. If one of your favorite hobbies is shopping, you probably have had this feeling. Becky describes the feeling of purchasing something as, “the best feeling in the world,” with a joyful sensation between yourself and shopping. However, this feeling wears off once you return home and realize you’re out a few hundred dollars. Guilt then settles in.     

Becky is in denial about her problem for most of the film, but her best friend makes her promise to attend Shopaholics Anonymous. Becky attends but it doesn’t seem to help her shopping addiction. It’s not until she loses her job and the man she loves, through being exposed by a debt collector on national television, that she realizes she has a problem. No worries though, the movie ends up with her having a massive sale on all her merchandise and she ends up with the guy. Of course, that's the Hollywood version and if you really do think you have a problem, Ellisor suggests starting with self-help books. You also may want to ask friends and family to help keep you in check or enlist professional help, like therapy or classes. Unlike Becky, I could never get myself in this big of a mess and don't think I'll need to check myself in, at least anytime soon. 

Did you say yes to any of these questions? Do you think you're a shopaholic? 

Sources: 
-Confessionals of a Shopaoholic (film). 2009. 

-Ellisor, Margie. (2014). http://fox2now.com/2014/02/26/are-you-a-shopaholic/

-Pinto, Renita T. (2012). http://healthmeup.com/photogallery-healthy-living/shopaholic-habits-are-you-a-shopaholic/17845

-Svoboda, Elizabeth. (2010).  http://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/201010/field-guide-the-shopaholic

Express Yourself Creatively

Are you one of those people who says, “I’m just not creative”…?  I’ve heard this statement numerous times from friends and family and every time it irritates me because although you might not be the ‘artsy type,’ I believe we all have some creativity in us! 

According to Dictionary.com, the definition of creativity is: “the ability to transcend traditional ideas, rules, patterns, relationships, or the like, and to create meaningful new ideas, forms, methods and interpretations.” For some, creativity comes easier and according to an article by Caroline Gregoire in the Huffington Post, there are certain characteristics creative people do differently. I found myself identifying with many of these, which isn’t surprising since fashion is a creative art form and I thrive off expressing myself through what I wear. However, even if you don’t consider yourself the “creative type,” there are ways you can enhance your creative thinking skills.

Be present and aware: Gregoire states, “The world is a creative person's oyster -- they see possibilities everywhere and are constantly taking in information that becomes fodder for creative expression.” Being aware of your surroundings, making observations and being curious can all enhance your creative side. Next time you’re driving, taking a walk or even watching television, really observe what your mind is taking in and be aware of your surroundings. We often “do,” because our society is so results oriented but when we simply “be” we notice a whole new dimension of the world. If you’re having trouble feeling present in the moment, try mindful meditation. 

Find what inspires you: Find your niche and run with it. Following your dreams and passions will not only make you feel more fulfilled, it will motivate you to accomplish those internal desires. When you feel passionate and motivated about something you care about or want, you will be more likely to come up with great ideas on that subject matter.

Travel and explore: Leaving your home territory for an extended period of time is an excellent way to gain a different understanding of the world, which in turn will open your mind to new possibilities and ideas. Study abroad, spend a summer in a new city or treat yourself to a needed vacation. If you can’t get away for a long period of time, try to go on weekend getaways. Just leave and go somewhere. This is the best way to clear your head and reflect. In order to come up with new ideas, you need to have a blank mind free from current worries.

Take time to be alone: Solitude can do wonders for a person. I know some people say they hate being alone and fear loneliness but I think a large aspect of that thinking stems from a fear of being labeled “anti-social” or as a “hermit.” For myself, this kind of thinking started in high school and I felt weird for not wanting to go out on weekends, but it just wasn’t my thing. I would rather be home in my room contemplating and processing, because this is how I recharge and being social can be very exhausting. Part of this comes from being an introvert, but even extroverts can find benefits in taking time to be alone. If you’re the type who feels they need to be making plans with friends every weekend, try taking a weekend off from your social life and see how it feels. Maybe the solitude will bring new insights you never knew you had. Sometimes all it takes is a few days away from any outside distractions. “We need to give ourselves the time alone to simply allow our minds to wander,” notes Gregoire.

Ask questions: If you question the world and how it works, that’s a sign you are creative. Creative’s don’t accept other's viewpoints of the world, they consider them, but they're open to seeing all the possibilities and seeking further questions. Gregoire says that creative’s opt to live the examined life because they look at the world around them and want to know why, and how, it is the way it is. Anyone can do this by analyzing situations critically and not believing everything they read, hear or see. Thinking about the underlying themes within the media that are reflected in our society is a good way to start. Think critically and never stop asking questions. 

These are a few ways you can get your creative juices flowing and I hope it’s helpful! There are numerous other ways to boost your creative thinking and several articles out there on the topic. If you have any further questions or want to continue the conversation on creativity, please comment below! :) 

Sources: 

-Carolyn Gregoire. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/03/04/creativity-habits_n_4859769.html

-http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/creativity?s=t

Spring & Summer Interview Attire

The weather is heating up and many of us are soon to be graduates with (hopefully) a lot of interviews on the horizon. I have recently been asked about how to dress nicely for interviews with the warmer spring weather. This can be challenging since a classic black pantsuit won't feel so great in hot weather, yet there needs to be a balance between professional attire that keeps you cool and comfortable.

Classic Sheath Dress: 

Classic grey sheath dress & matching jacket
from The Limited Suiting Collection 

• My biggest tip is to swap your winter pantsuit for a tailored sleeveless sheath and coordinating jacket. It’s a very classic and professional alternative that allows for you to remove your jacket until right before the interview, so you’ll stay cooler. The Limited now carries tailored sheath dresses as part of their suiting collection in black, navy, khaki or light grey. Check out this collection at http://www.thelimited.com/womens-clothing/dresses/dresses-sheath-dress. For this time of year, I would suggest the khaki or light grey color. Glamour recommends sticking with a neutral color, unless the company you’re interviewing at is more creative, then it would be appropriate to choose a chic design. The Limited has a few colorblock pattern options in black, brown and coral that are still very professional, but a little more fun than the classic solids. If you want to play it safe and stick with black (which is totally ok), then add a neutral accessory such as a skinny belt. If the position is less corporate, you may want to mix separates, such as a solid sheath dress with a tailored jacket in a brighter color or pattern, suggests fashion writer Nina Myers. Lastly, make sure to wear nylons or nude tights to keep the look modest. 

Crop khaki pants & a black jacket
is both stylish and conservative

If Your Not the Dress Type: 

•  Maybe you're not the dress type and want to stick with tailored pants or a pencil skirt. “A more classic skirt or pants suit paired with a pretty printed silk blouse is also a lovely combination,” states Myers. Go with a sleeveless or short sleeve blouse so you won’t be too hot. Some great spring colors to try are yellow, peach, light blue, mint green and violet. Any of these colors would look great with a khaki or grey suit. Crop or pencil pants are a great alternative to bootcut dress pants and have a slim, tailored silhouette, hitting right at the ankle. These look very sharp with a great pair of pumps.

Colors to Wear (and Not Wear):

• Don’t wear white. Myers says, “White is the least serious color and looks too casual. The lightest you should go is cream.” This is great advice to follow because with color it’s always better to play it safe. I mentioned some great spring colors above and all are pastels or neutrals. Stick with subdued colors for attire and then if you want to add a pop of color you can do so with an accessory piece or shoes.

How to Accessorize: 

Interview jewelry options 

•  Belt: A skinny belt would look great with any classic sheath to create some shape and add contrast. For a grey dress, I would suggest a white or black skinny belt and for khaki, I would do black. However, to stand out Glamour suggests a super skinny belt in a vibrant hue. 
• Shoes: Classic nude pumps are always great, especially if you need to keep it conservative. However, if you want to look a little more stylish, a pair of menswear inspired lace-ups or neutral pumps with interesting details like a trendy wood heel or summery white trim are great options that Glamour recommends. 
• Jewelry: You want to set yourself apart from the competition and jewelry is a good way to do this. Pearls are great for interviews because they’re classy without being too flashy. You want to be simple and not too trendy, so a nice gold, silver or pearl chain works well. For a black, grey or navy suit, wear silver jewelry and for a khaki or brown suit, wear gold. Pearls will work with any color.
• Handbag: A classic, elegant leather handbag in black or tan is the best way to go. Myers says to avoid “it” bags, especially if they’re made of exotic skin or covered in hardware. Your bag should be big enough to carry all of the necessities, such as your portfolio with a copy of your resume, cover letter and any work samples.

Consider this advice and wear what will make you feel most confident. It will all, of course, depend upon the position you are interviewing for. Research the company well to find out their dress policy or ask people who have worked there or somewhere similar. You want your attire to make you look like you’d be a good fit for the company, but it’s also appropriate to look dressier than everyone else if they have a casual dress code. Look serious; look confident and let your outfit enhance your chance of landing the job!

What advice do you have for dressing for a Spring or Summer interview? 

Sources: 
-Nina Myers,  “Summer Career Networking Style: It’s in the Details. http://www.career-line.com/job-search/interview-tips-wear-the-right-clothes-for-summer-interviews/
-http://www.glamour.com/fashion/blogs/dressed/2010/06/what-to-wear-to-a-summer-job-i.html