Contributors

Monday, December 31, 2012



Happy New Years Everyone!

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We appreciate your support and readership and wish you a grand 2013. Keep in mind that “13” is the numerical equivalent of the Hebrew word “Ahava” which means Love. This should be a good sign – don’t you think?
 
XOXO,
Wear Your Invisible Crown
 

Sunday, December 30, 2012

 
Prelude to Post: I can’t seem to fight it. Late Parsha posts are my fatal flaw (well one of them…you’ll soon see that I have many others). Bear with me anyways?

Comparison is the Thief of Joy
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        I’m convinced that I’m an old soul. In fact, I like to think of my soul or consciousness (or whatever you’d like to call it) as a stereotypically portrayed grandmother. There she is with her silvery hair coiled into an immaculate bun, quilt thrown over her legs, knitting a hat, murmuring to herself in Yiddish (which is kind of odd because I’m of Middle-Eastern descent and all…huh).

Thursday, December 27, 2012



St-EYE-lista
Take 2
        Welcome back to our bi-monthly column "The St-EYE-lista!" This column features an individual whose personal style captured our EYE and whose fashion sense can be reinterpreted for the modest dresser. Wear Your Invisible Crown is eclectic. We enjoy representing styles that swing all over the fashion pendulum. Whether your P.S. (personal style) is tomboyish, retro, glamourous, edgy, or classic, we've got you covered.
       This month’s St-EYE-lista is a 21st century Anna Karenina, Lucille Ball, Russian Babushka, and Grace Kelly all rolled into one. Did that pique your interest? Good…It totally should. Her name is Ulyana Sergeenko and she is the second wife to Russian insurance billionaire Danil Khachaturov. At first glance, Sergeenko appears to be yet another Eastern European beauty with the graceful mannerisms of a well-pampered, hoity-toity, high-society woman. Yet, upon closer inspection, one will realize that she is also a deeply creative, avant-garde artiste.  
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       Over the past couple of years, Sergeenko has focused on developing a couture line founded in Moscow. Although she does not yet possess the fame and publicity of other European couture labels (Chanel and Dior), she is still highly illustrious in the fashion universe (especially the Russian fashion universe—Miroslava Duma and model Natalie Vodianova are dedicated followers).
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       Sergeenko’s couture collection is a gift to all vintage-infatuated women. It's simultaneously reminiscent of Jane Austen novels, Grimm’s fairy-tales, Old Hollywood glamour, and Russian aristocracy. The silhouettes, patterns, and textures of Sergeenko’s collection emanate a certain eloquence and nostalgia, one that touches upon every woman's whispered yearning to be queen for a day. (This fantasy starts when a girl is about three and never seems to end...). In addition, although Sergeenko isn’t Jewish, her style is very modest. (Perhaps more modest than the author's? Oy vey).
Without further ado, let us revel in the womanly and aristocratic style of Ulyana Sergeenko!

Monday, December 24, 2012

  

 Prelude to Post: My friend (the talented journalist Atara Arbesfeld) and I recently published an article in The Jewish Press. We wrote a review on Jew in the City's spectacular Chanukah party and her Jewish Orthodox "All-Stars" Video. Please click on http://www.jewishpress.com/sections/features/jew-in-the-city-all-stars-party-lights-up-with-chanukah-inspiration/2012/12/21/to read all about it! If you haven't yet heard of the fabulous Jew in the City, then you must check out her site ASAP (at www.jewinthecity.com).
 
WINTER LAYERING PART 1: THE DENIM JACKET
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        The advantage to being a nifty, thrifty college graduate without a full-time job (yet!) is that you have no choice but to become innovative and economical. You transform into a quasi-Sherlock Holmes and compel yourself to think out-of-the-box. Let's see now--sugar cubes can sweeten my tea and exfoliate lips, while a hairdryer can style my locks and dry the icing on cakes. Clever, huh? From ramen noodles to hairpins, and from rubber bands to lipstick, everything in your house must now serve double-duty. If that's not possible, then we've got a problem here Watson...

Friday, December 21, 2012


 
“Ten Things We Did Better as Children”
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This girl is wearing her "Invisible (or not so invisible...heh-heh) Crown." Yay!
 
       As mentioned in a previous post (October’s “Parshat Vayeira, Hurricane Sandy, and Children”), I don’t believe it’s a mere coincidence that recent head-lining tragedies have centered around the murder of children (Casey Anthony, Leiby Kletzky, the two children and the nanny in Manhattan, the child that passed during the Colorado shooting, and now the Connecticut massacre). As I forge my way into adulthood, I only realize now how “cheated” I feel over my lost childhood. A child’s unadulterated optimism and belief in humanity have not yet been overshadowed by adulthood’s cynicism, embitterment, and blasé attitude towards (almost) everything.
        Many children have a sheer confidence towards life, a “fall down to rise again” doctrine, and a fascination with the smallest trinkets and bugs and flowers. The horrific tragedies involving children not only remind us of how incredibly fragile they are, but also of life’s general fragility. Although I attached this link to October’s post regarding “Children,” I’m not sure if actually worked. I don’t like to take chances again, so I re-typed “Ten Things We Did Better as Children” from www.ThoughtCatalog.com This article is by Chelsea Fagan. It’s worth a read!

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Would You Wear...?

Would You Wear…?
Velvet


Welcome back to our “Would You Wear…?” column! This column introduces trends that would perhaps challenge the status-quo (as far as wardrobes are concerned). It will usually feature a style that is either unfamiliar to you or requires a bit of daring on your part. If you haven't seen our last "Would You Wear...?" post, then please click on the label below THIS post.

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Tom Ford Fall 2011
        There are days when my mother’s tendency to keep clothing from the 1950s-1990s can overcrowd that random wardrobe on the first floor, making it increasingly difficult to eye my own random skirt lying pitifully in the clutter. Why is there so much unnecessary stuff? Then there are days when I proclaim my mother a genius for stubbornly clutching on to the Anne Klein heels circa 1990 (back in the days when they were crafted in Italy!) and a purely wool, Anne Taylor “Grandpa” cardigan circa 1982 (Williamsburg hipsters--be jealous). One of my favorite items from the “random wardrobe-slash-Mother’s personal Smithsonian” is a deep green, velvet GAP skirt from the early nineties.
 
       As soon as I found it, I tried it on, zipped it up and twirled it around. Fortunately, the skirt is the perfect fit and length. To this day, I marvel at its magnetic simplicity. Wearing this skirt is like wrapping caramel around my legs—minus all the stickiness of course. The texture and color are delicious. But, there is one conundrum: What on earth do I wear with velvet? Especially hunter green velvet? Do you have a modus operandi for tackling this striking yet notoriously tricky fabric? I don’t!

So, let’s go on a journey and see what pairs well with it:

Monday, December 17, 2012


This week has been a bit hectic. We apologize for the AWOL. Without further ado:
 
JEWISH HEROINES:
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"Quappi in a Pink Jumper" by Max Beckmann
 
       America has experienced the clichéd “straw that broke the camel’s back” this Friday. The movie theatre shooting that occurred in July carved a deep wound in the nation’s heart, but the Connecticut school tragedy fatally and mercilessly squeezed it. This tragedy is purely unfathomable. The ONLY solace is for G-d to joyously reunite parent with child upon the coming of Moshiach. Any other attempt at consolation is pathetically feeble and terribly inadequate.
      The evil that reared its repulsive face on Friday propelled me to consider the classic Good vs. Evil theme in general. Harry Potter established that “Good” wins as does every other Grimm’s Fairy Tale.

Wednesday, December 12, 2012



St-EYE-lista
       From talk-show hosts to socialites and from Creative Directors to bloggers, Wear Your Invisible Crown prides itself on revealing the kaleidoscopic gamut of fashion ingénues and icons. Since the month of December definitely calls for chic versatility (work, weekend, Chanukah soirees, and winter weddings), is there a better moment to feature the multi-faceted style of Kate Bosworth? Nope, there isn’t.
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       Although Kate Bosworth is well-known for being an actress (and for her different colored eyes!) she is even more well-known for her trend-setting credentials. In fact, I barely ever watched a film that Kate Bosworth was in, but I have seen scores of her stylish snapshots in Vogue. The fashion universe constantly focuses their lens on Ms. Bosworth, because more often than not, she’ll be perfectly executing a bohemian, sporty, sleek, or luxurious look. This girl is definitely a fashion chameleon in her own right.

Check out her modest ensembles below!

Monday, December 10, 2012



CAREER CONFUSION
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       In second grade our teacher asked my fellow classmates and I to sketch a picture of the proverbial “what you want to be when you grow up” in our journals. I happily grabbed my pencil and began to draw a girl who was wearing many hats. Literally. She simultaneously managed to don the clichéd beret of a French artist, a chef’s towering Dodin Bouffant, and the headgear of a submarine swimmer. Talented girl she was. Oh, and she also had five arms. One was to feel a puppy’s heartbeat with her stethoscope, another was to vigorously scribble her N.Y.Times article, another was to distribute prizes to her Preschool students, and so on.

Sunday, December 9, 2012

 

Let’s Get Ready to Partay!
       HAPPY CHANUKAH dear readers! May we all experience genuine joy during this auspicious season. Below is a brief guide to aid you in case you become possessed with the “I’ve got nothing to wear” syndrome right before a Chanukah (or office Holiday) party. The clothing suggestions are founded on one’s “style personality.” Mix and match the various looks if you feel like it. Go ahead…It’s party time! 
The Classicist
First up is The Classicist: She is a mademoiselle who usually opts for timeless dresses and separates. How can a Classicist revamp her Chanukah party style? Sequins of course. At this point, sequins are practically synonymous with winter festivities. It is and will always be the traditional Holiday fashion. A P.O.C (pop of color) in your accessories will surely add further cheer to a sparkly outfit. Speaking of accessories, a statement-making necklace will definitely be welcome when paired with solid yet richly hued separates. A Collar Necklace is what I have in mind.
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Model Hilary Rhoda (left) and blogger Jenny from JennyinJacquard wear collar necklaces with deep colors.

Tuesday, December 4, 2012


LEV COLLECTION
 
       It’s quite interesting how I met Carolina, the founder and designer of Lev Collection. It was three years ago. I was with my friend in a Manhattan pizza store. We noticed a young Sephardic-looking woman eating her lunch nearby. She met a few acquaintances there and her demeanor appeared to be sweet and relaxed. I was considering approaching her and introducing myself. You see, I was on a quest to find an appropriate Shidduch for a specific family member of mine. I wanted to speak to her but my “What the heck? You never know” attitude was restrained by shyness. I finally mustered the courage to introduce myself and we exchanged each others’ contact information. Although the potential Shidduch I conceived did not blossom to fruition, I’m still quite grateful that I met Carolina on that blistering June day (she’s married now by the way!).  
 
      Around a year ago, Carolina began to post photos of dazzling evening and cocktail dresses on Facebook. I quickly discovered that she designed those dresses. Impressive! Carolina’s Lev Collection can be viewed and purchased on www.levcollection.com. Lev Collection offers evening wear for Simchot and formal wear for Shabbat and the Holidays. The clothing is perfectly modest, so you can say adieu to purchasing extra fabric and “fixing it.” Who needs that hassle, right? In addition, the elegant simplicity of Lev Collection’s dresses is truly covetable. Sequins! Feminine silhouettes! Lace detailing! This is the modest yet fashionable woman’s dream. Let’s get to know Lev Collection’s founder and designer a bit better!

Monday, December 3, 2012



CHANUKAH 2012
Need I remind you how beloved these eight days are to your Jewish calendar, Jewish soul, and inner Jewish party girl? 
Here’s a list of a few upcoming Chanukah events in N.Y.
This sounds fantastic: Jewish music performed by the Chassidic-Alt-Rock group, Bulletproof Stockings (interview with them coming up soon on Wear Your Invisible Crown!), designer fashion at affordable prices presented by The Frock Swap, cuisine, yoga, mini-makeovers, and Jewish female talent brimming forth.
 
Wow. Charity and delicious Persian food? Sign me up please.
 
 
Oorah Concert 2012
 Oorah Event  for families
 
Join us at Oorah's FREE CHANUKAH CONCERT for Oorah families.
Featuring Lipa Schmeltzer, Yoni Z,
Shloime Dachs and NYBC
with music by the Shloime Dachs Orchestra.
Special section for The Zone
The concert will be held on
Tuesday, December 11, 2012,
the fourth night of Chanukah.
Doors open at 7:00, concert begins at 7:30
at the Walt Whitman Theatre -Brooklyn College
Avenue H and Nostrand Avenue
Brooklyn, NY

Important note:
New this year: we will be mailing tickets to you prior to the concert.
You must bring your tickets to be admitted.

Y.U. Chanukah Concert 2012
Edon Pinchot, the teen music sensation who burst onto the scene this year as a semifinalist on the TV show “America’s Got Talent,” and veteran Jewish music group Shalsheles, will headline this year’s annual Yeshiva University Chanukah Concert on Thursday, December 13 at 8 p.m. YU a cappella group, the Y-Studs, will open the show. The concert will take place at YU’s Lamport Auditorium, 2540 Amsterdam Ave. in Washington Heights. Doors open at 7:30 p.m.
 
 
"America's Got Talent" Eden Pinchot
 
We hope this was informative. Enjoy these eight days. Woohoo!
 

EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW! TEL AVIV FASHION SHOW REVIEW BY TIARA!!!


Tel Aviv Fashion Show at Greenhouse, Soho
By Atara Arbesfeld

 
         
        It was Thursday night November 15, when Israeli fashion crossed the Atlantic and arrived in New York City. I would normally be heading back home in Queens on the F train or catching up on late night studying. Instead I was at a swanky bar in Soho and feeling pathetically out of place with my kikki rikki, black cardigan, black pencil skirt and flats. It was my first foray into the world of fashion and my expectations were high. I was expecting to be witnessing the cutting edge of Israeli style, kosher food, and extraordinary entertainment, which I did, but not without some initial awkwardness...

This is an exclusive sneak peak - stay tuned soon for the full review!

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Would You Wear...?

 

Would You Wear...?
Plaid on Plaid
        Welcome to our new “Would You Wear…?” column! This column introduces trends that would perhaps challenge the status-quo (as far as wardrobes are concerned). It will usually feature a style that is either unfamiliar to you or requires a bit of daring on your part.
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 Blair Eadie from www.atlantic-pacific.blogspot.com
 
        Fall is my favorite season of the year. Hands down. Yet, when I take a stroll in the park I’m beginning to feel more of a winter nip than an autumnal one. Hurricane Sandy ravaged the East Coast and snow already graced the streets in N.Y. Is an early winter our fate? Maybe. But, I refuse to say “toodle-oo!” to autumn until it’s officially over (December 21st marks the beginning of winter).
       Until December 21st, I’m going to revel in everything that’s considered a hardcore autumnal cliché. This includes apple cider, crunchy leaves, and of course the subject of today’s post: plaid.  The question isn’t if you would wear plaid in general (because of course you would!). It’s “would you wear plaid on plaid?” Would you channel your inner Scottish spirit and double on this print? If the answer is a hearty yes, then behold the bagpipes are playing in ye honor.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

 
 
St-EYE-lista  
Take 2
         I enjoy eclectic and varying viewpoints on interpretive fashion. This explains why I chose to feature two women who contrast in their age, region, and role in the fashion industry for November’s St-EYE-listas. This month's first St-EYE-lista was J.Crew’s Creative Director Jenna Lyons. She’s been in the fashion business for a good amount of years and is globally famous for her role in America’s top-selling brand. Who then is the second style icon of the month? Doina Ciobanu, a young woman in her late teens from Moldova. Now, how's that for a different point-of-view?
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         Unlike Jenna,  Doina has not yet reached the pinnacle of an illustrious fashion career, but in the direction she’s headed, that should become her destiny! Doina Ciobanu tiptoed her way into fashion fame when she started her blog “The Golden Diamonds” in 2010. Since then she has been featured in Vogue Russia, Vogue Paris, Elle China, and Harper's Bazaar. Doina has also caught the eye of renowned street style photographers such as The Sartorialist. In fact, The Sartorialist’s photo was my first introduction to Doina.
Here it is:
 
I love this photo of Doina. Her striking gaze, vintage floral dress, and killer shoes truly stand out in the crowd (as does the woman in the green shawl and blue dress! Perfect).

Sunday, November 25, 2012

 
THE STYLISH STUDENT
       
         Dear college students, I’m sure midterms recently snaked their way into your life (for better or for worse). Either way, they’re over! Whew. I hope you celebrated your midterm finale with a glass of your favorite champagne and soap opera. Kidding. There are even better ways to celebrate…like enjoying quality time with your family and friends over Thanksgiving break.     
 
        Yet, now the holiday is over and you’re bound towards your college classroom. Is there a way to perk up the rest of your semester? How can you tackle another round of Greek and Roman History? Actually, never mind History. What about Organic Chemistry? Hmm?!
 
Well, I can’t help you with the befuddling facts and figures that you must confront, but I can offer one itsy, bitsy tip. What’s that itsy bitsy tip? Dress for the part. Seriously. It has 2 benefits:
 
 
 
1) Confidence: You’ll be more astute when you argue with your professor (about why you deserve an A of course) when you’re wearing an outfit that makes you feel good, as opposed to a dull, uninspired one. Take my word.
2) Self-Expression: I know this may sound ridiculous, but I’ve realized through my own experience that experimenting with clothing is one of the coolest aspects of college. Mull this over: Once you hit the end of the collegiate road and start working, your dress code will be quite restrictive. Of course, not all work environments have uptight dress codes, but still…you can’t exactly toss on your idiosyncratic sweater or well-loved but scuffed boots. Your boss will prefer polished over punk--unless he’s the CEO of Vespa, in which case, go ahead and rock your studded vest.

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Thanksgiving!

 
HAPPY TURKEY DAY DEAR READERS!
 
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Love,
Wear Your Invisible Crown

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Anna Karenina


Anna Karenina Collection in Banana Republic
 
         I finally picked up a copy of Anna Karenina at a local book shop. Five dollars! Definitely one of the best ways I spent five dollars. Like many classics, the beginning can be a bit slow-paced, but once you dig into the meat of the story…ah, then what a pleasure. I am only up to Part 2 of this gargantuan tale, but Mrs. Karenina has already swept me away in her tale of twisted passion and suppressed yearning.
        Tolstoy’s masterpiece has been filmed and is currently playing in theatres now! I’ve only seen the trailer and was practically drooling over the breathtaking cinematography and costumes.

Monday, November 19, 2012

Israel, we love you.

 
 
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         There is no need for elaboration on what is currently occurring in Israel. We know that Israel is liable to pointed fingers of blame. We realize that Israel is surrounded by a hurdle of ravenous wolves. I also don’t want to post a megila on this subject because social media and news pages are being filled with Gaza War updates. It truly makes the heart sink like a stone.
        We can only rely on our prayers, good deeds, and G-d’s mercy to safeguard soldiers and citizens alike. I know my previous post was about how “waiting” can subsequently lead to genuine appreciation, but a 2,000-year exile is a wait that seems never-ending.  
     A spontaneous rally in support of Israel. Times Square, November 15th 2012:  
 
Israel, we love you. Let's return to your borders in peace and joy.
 

Parshat Toldot


“THE BENEFIT OF THE WAIT”
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        The very beginning of Parshat Toldot is what I ruminated over this past week. In the first chapter of Parshat Toldot we discover that our matriarch Rivka is barren. In fact, she was barren for 20 years of her life. She and her husband Yitzchak were deeply distraught and consistently prayed to G-d for children.
         Since 1st grade, my teachers have lectured that righteous individuals (such as Yitzchak and Rivka) do not receive their heart’s desires right away. Instead, they are inclined to pore over their prayer book with continued fervor and faith, beseeching G-d for what they need. When our innocent faces puckered with puzzlement over this, our teachers would enthusiastically state: G-d yearns for the prayers of righteous people. This is why He does not deliver what they ask for right away.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Color Coding: Cobalt


COLOR CODING
  Last month’s color was the rich, highly sophisticated, and sultry oxblood. This month’s COBALT is equally rich, but possesses more of an energy and buoyancy. Let’s just say that I have a crush on cobalt.
        I not only crush on it because it’s the season’s boldest hue, but also because it has the distinct ability to add a glow to many skin tones and features. Think about it: Cobalt beautifully highlights light eyes and intensifies dark ones. It adds depth and verve to whatever you wear.
Here’s a peek of how to wear this divinely vivid hue:
Full On Cobalt
Actress Uma Thurman dazzles in a form-fitting cobalt Armani Prive dress. The beauty of this dress truly motivates me to bail out on black the next time I have an evening event.
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Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Graphic Sweatshirts

         
It’s Just A Little Bit Graphic...
        Graphic sweatshirt. What is that reminiscent of? Weekends spent on the sofa with beer and chips? Your middle-school pajama top? The one that  proudly boasted your Backstreet Boys fandom? (Ah! Those were the days). But let's rewire our attitude towards this "lazy Sunday" staple. 

        The graphic sweatshirt has debuted as one of the season’s hottest trends. Believe it or not, slipping on your college or bird-print sweatshirt is actually au courant. My fellow “creatures of comfort”: Our dreams have finally come to fruition. It turns out that fashion CAN be deliciously comfortable.
 
        Those who consider this trend to only be “teenage-friendly” should realize that graphic sweaters look surprisingly sophisticated when paired with knee-length pencil skirts. Many S/S 2013 Fashion Show’s attendees paired a Kenzo Fall 2012 sweatshirt with a ladylike skirt and polished heels. The result was a fascinating balance of spunk and spiffiness. I love that.
 
Let's take a look at some of Fall 2012's graphic sweatshirts!

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Monday, November 12, 2012

Parshat Chaya Sara

PARSHAT CHAYA SARA
        I apologize for the belated post on the weekly Parsha. I had a spontaneous weekend getaway—very spur of the moment. I was considering in forgoing writing about the Parsha (since Shabbat already passed), but then I realized that it’s Parshat Chaya Sara and the biblical character I am named after (Rivka/Rebecca) is introduced and wedded in this Torah portion. How can I possibly spring past this personally meaningful Parsha and meander into trivialities?
       Aside from that, this Parsha is especially relevant to singles because it deliberates upon the union of marriage. Commonly referred to as the “Shidduch Parsha,” Chaya Sara often draws lectures concerning dating and matrimony from Rabbis’ and teachers’ lips.
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        Do I have any sermons about courtship and walking down the aisle? Hmm…let’s see…Well, I’ve seen the most genuinely kind and noble-hearted individuals (who are educated professionals and good-looking to boot!) being suctioned into a quicksand of loneliness and jaded dating experiences. I’ve also seen infantile and flighty individuals bask in the spell of fresh love and find their intended sooner than you can pop champagne and holler “Mazal Tov!” So, no, I clearly don’t have any sermons about this confounding labyrinth we like to call dating. I’m still as bewildered as the next single person. With very few exceptions, the whole notion of dating and marriage has left me scratching my head more than any other subject.

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Volunteering post Sandy


I’ve Got Your Back
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      There is a slushy coating of snow in early November--causing further harm to Hurricane Sandy victims. Many of us are still expecting a clown puppet to spring out of a toy box and squeak “April Fools!” but then we realize that we are quite distant from April and that this is far from a hoax. This is our reality: N.Y. has once again tiptoed over autumn (all too quickly) and sashayed into weather on steroids.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

 
DID YOU GET YOUR VOTE ON?
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        Voting. It’s today’s prevailing and broadcasted subject. After the heated 2012 campaigns, after Obama’s rebuffs to Romney’s subtle (and at times not subtle) accusations and vice versa—the moment of truth is inching closer and closer.

        I must admit that I’m not politically savvy. When my brainy friends exchange befuddling political jargon, opinions, policies, and historical events, I simply offer a raised eyebrow and a blushed cheek. I wish I could fervently debate opposing sides and sound all politically astute and what not…but I voted! Isn’t that what matters the most in the end?
        I also encountered my 12th grade Political Science teacher today strolling along a main street in Brooklyn. I saw her for the first time in 5 years…you know, on a day when Political Science is just a tad more relevant to me (coincidence?) She was my teacher during the 2008 elections. I vividly remember her stating that she wanted Romney to be the Republican candidate because he’s “the most handsome.” I loved that teacher, mind you.
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         Ultimately, in spite of the rising tension between Democrats and Republicans and extreme analysis of who’s more equipped to govern this country, we are mere puppets in the Hands of the Chief President (a.k.a. G-d). We can only pray that the victor of this campaign significantly bolster our economy (oh G-d, please have mercy on the unemployed!), advance education, ensure that firefighters and policemen receive equal salary to A-list celebrities, and maintain the morality and values that are integral to many of us. MAY THE BEST MAN WIN.
 Photo Accreditation:
 

Monday, November 5, 2012

St-EYE-lista Jenna Lyons

 
St-EYE-lista
        Welcome to the first part of November's St-EYE-lista. Remember that column? We've already featured the style renegade Alexa Chung and the "Modest Muse" Olivia Palermo. Who are we shedding the limelight on this month you ask? The inimitable Ms. Jenna Lyons, Creative Director of J. Crew. If you're like me and you tend to pore over J. Crew catalogues like they're your GED practice booklet, then you simply must read about the leading lady who works the backstage and forefront of this iconic brand.
 
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        I can assure you that Jenna Lyons dwells on my fashion pedestal. Her tall frame is lounged across her gold throne. She sits there with her impeccable denim J. Crew jacket tucked into her silky, fuchsia evening skirt. Her eyes are framed with the ubiquitous hipster glasses and her feet are graced with patent ebony stilettos. Perhaps there is a glass of sparkling water in her hand. Or is that a martini? I can’t tell. Either way, this portrayal evokes eclectic elegance and endearing whimsy in my mind.

Friday, November 2, 2012


 
An End to This Horrific Week, Parshat Veyeira, and Children
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         The East Coast is still reeling from Hurricane Sandy. Areas in NY such as the Rockaways and Staten Island, as well as towns in New Jersey, are straining to salvage whatever they can from their flooded homes. Their power is still weakly wavering, they are waiting an hour for a pump of gas, and their grocery markets can’t even supply basic items such as milk or flashlights (being that they’re all sold out). As we’ve mentioned in a previous post, our hearts and thoughts are with those who have suffered terribly as a result of this natural disaster.
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         It seems as though the earth itself is sagging from the weight of her inhabitants’ financial, personal, and emotional turbulence and is reacting by “letting off steam”  or “blowing a fuse” (literally and metaphorically). Obviously, Hurricane Sandy’s devastation is what mainly occupies NY and its citizens. It occupies my mind as well. Yet, in midst of all this chaos and calamity, I can’t help but think about another NY tragedy that occurred merely a week ago. I’m referring to the unspeakable event that occurred in Manhattan involving a nanny, two young children, and an unsuspecting mother returning home from work. I don’t want to flicker a smile off your face and replace it with a grimace or a frown, but I don’t feel it’s respectful to proceed forth in my blog without giving mention to this horrific action either. Our hearts are still aching for the father and mother who have to endure this immeasurable pain.

Thursday, November 1, 2012

 
Ms. Duma and Her Coats
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           November 1st:  The weather slowly slips from a teasing nip of wind (or ironically not so teasing--Holler to Hurricane Sandy) to hints of winter frigidity. In other words, our fall jackets will soon be replaced by winter coats. Like journalist Amanda Fortini, I too once believed that winter coats were “the sartorial equivalent of a pie crust: an inferior exterior ruining the whole darn thing.” Your precisely coordinated outfit, your sleek pencil skirt, and your ironic sweater are all captives under the prison you call a coat. The question remains: How can you not bear a slight grievance against your winter shield?
           The answer is: Get motivated to no, not wear, but flaunt your winter topper like Russia’s ex-Harper’s Bazaar editor (currently freelance writer) Miroslava Duma. Miroslava Duma’s experimental and show-stopping personal style will be featured in an upcoming “St-EYE-lista: The Editor’s Version” column (which begins in January). Until then—let’s focus on Duma’s ability to work a winter coat like nobody’s business. Her coat collection consists of vivid color, intricate pattern, and high-end designer labels—you know, the kind of coats a university student or freshly employed young woman would surely have in her wardrobe (insert stifled snort or roll of the eyes right here).

Tuesday, October 30, 2012


 
 
  Autumnal Joys


Hurricane Sandy's devastation has been just that: devastating. That wolfish wind
 has wreaked havoc on countless homes and properties. Most unfortunately, there
 were several people who perished as a result of this monstrous storm (heavy sigh).  
Our thoughts are with those who have been severely affected by this disaster.
 
Yet, amidst all the suffering and destruction, Ms. Sandy's dreaded arrival did bear one
positive  perk. She reminded us to be appreciative of not only toaster ovens, Subway lines, nightstand lights, text messaging, and daily coffee runs, but also of the glorious outdoors.
 
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There are moments when I catch myself shrugging off  the gift of mellow weather and instead dwell on my various troubles. There will always be some kind of petty excuse to not indulge in a perfectly balmy day. The whiny voice in one's mind will always grumble that it's too sunny, too chilly, too far, too tiring, too time-consuming to explore the adventures of Mother Nature. What then reminds me to pause and soak up her magnificent bounty?
 
When she turns towards me with a chilling glare and the sound of fury. That's when I'm like "okay, Nature. Take a whiff of lavender and relax! I won't be inappreciative anymore. I promise."
 
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Below are several autumnal activities to revel in once Ms. Sandy packs her purse, salutes the town with a devilish wink, and whisks her way back to heaven (or hell).
Basking in these outdoor activities will remind one that, in reality, Nature is sweetly sensuous, emotionally pacifying, and just plain awesome.