Fashion Police

Fashionista

Is Body Positivity the New Standard?

October 13, 2024 - As young girls, we’re constantly exposed to images of the “perfect” woman, the “perfect” body type, and, essentially, the “perfect” everything. As we grow into adulthood, this unrealistic idea of perfection tends to stick with us. From the supermodels we see in the media to the clothes on the racks at our favorite stores, the concept of “perfect” can feel haunting. So here’s the real question: How does the fashion industry continue to push this idea, and when will “body positivity” finally become the norm?

Growing up, we all figure out our personal style, from favorite colors to the silhouettes that complement our bodies. But let’s be real—it also comes with a mental battle. What we want to wear doesn’t always feel “acceptable” by society’s standards. Why do we need to conform to the fashion industry’s typical sizing when the industry itself should be embracing realistic body types?

Let’s face it: Most of us don’t have the idealized “supermodel thin” or “hourglass” figure, and it’s hard to feel confident in our skin when the media we consume contradicts that. As time moves forward and the world changes, we can only hope that the fashion industry does too. The constant inner dialogue of “Am I skinny enough?” or “I can’t try on that dress, I know it won’t fit” is something many of us experience in silence—and that’s okay. It’s normal to struggle with these thoughts when the industry has been projecting impossible standards on us for so long.

Thankfully, we’re starting to see progress. The battle between traditional beauty standards and the push for body positivity is in full swing. Many brands are expanding their size ranges beyond the typical zeros and twos, offering sizes from XXL to 6XL and even custom sizing. Slowly but surely, the industry is starting to realize that there isn’t a “perfect” woman—all women are beautiful, and that diversity deserves to be celebrated.

For us, this shift is exhilarating. Not because the fashion industry is creating something new, but because it’s finally catching up with the reality of today’s world. Body positivity is vital, especially in an industry that exists to make people feel beautiful. Fashion is art, and just like art, it should embrace different looks, sizes, and styles. At the end of the day, no one’s going to remember whether we were a size two. What we will remember are the parts of ourselves we and others loved, and that’s what the fashion industry should focus on showcasing.

P.S.

Just a reminder: Everyone is beautiful in their own way. There’s no such thing as a “perfect” person, and it’s those so-called imperfections that make you who you are. Refusing to let a dress size or trend define you is the most perfect thing you can do.

With love and confidence,

Gabrielle Ramos, Intern

Photo: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Victoria’s Secret

The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show’s Return to the Runway

October 20, 2024 - This past week the iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show came back to the runway after six years. Once the show was announced, we (along with many other Victoria’s Secret lovers) felt a wave of excitement. We were ready to see the angels strut their stuff down the runway, the iconic wings, and the epitome of the “bombshell beauty”. But where was the glitz and glam? Not to say that we didn’t love the show, but it sparked the thought: Has the old Victoria’s Secret been laid to rest, and is that a good thing?

Now, in past years, the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was a lively and extravagant runway show that set itself apart from your typical designer show. The runway stage was covered in glitter, the wings sparkled against the stage lights, and the Angels strutted in elaborate designs with wind flowing through their hair. Naturally, this is what we were expecting but bigger and better. With an anticipated return, new production crew, and lineup of excellent models and performers, we hoped for even more glamor than before. Instead, Victoria’s Secret brought a new version of glamor to the runway this time around.

But still, we know everyone was thinking: Where was the glitter covered runway? Where were the bouncy “bombshell” blowouts? Where were the overly-lively runway walks and poses? It didn’t feel like the classic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, but maybe that is a good thing.

Let’s be honest: The most iconic parts of the show was the glitz and glamor that came with the brand, but sometimes things need to change for the better. We can’t hold onto the past when the only way to go is forward. Personally, we thought it was great to see Victoria’s Secret immerse themselves in their rebranding, from an inclusive model lineup – with women of all shapes, sizes, and skin tones. They upped the ante on the wings, by creating mechanical ones (specifically sported by Gigi Hadid), and created new designs that highlighted women of all ages. 

One of the best parts of the show was the concept of girl power. The whole show embodied this concept and committed to it from the entire crew behind the scenes, the all-women performances from Tyla, Lisa, and Cher, and even all the songs from iconic pop girls like Chappell Roan. We also got to see iconic models come back for the show like Kate Moss, Adriana Lima, Candace Swaneopel, and Tyra Banks!

Photo by: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

In a way, we think it’s great to see Victoria’s Secret branching out and moving forward. As times change, so do companies. Frankly, we did get to see the glitz and glamor but in a new and improved way. Even though there weren't any glitter floors or fancy blowouts, they elevated their designs and intricate wings. Something even more important was how Victoria’s Secret moved towards inclusivity within their brand, with models of all shapes, sizes, and ages. They sent a message of women empowerment with this show instead, which is more important than a few extra wind-fans and shimmery lights, right?

P.S. 

Even though we will miss the basic “bombshell” glitz and glamor, Victoria’s Secret is moving towards new and improved standards of beauty and we absolutely love it. The reality is that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes and is something worth highlighting and should be celebrated.

With love,

Gabrielle Ramos, Intern

Photography by : NA-KD.com

Very Cutesy, Very Demure – A Very Prominent Fashion Trend

October 27, 2024 - As the cold weather slowly rolls in, many fashion lovers are ditching the “brat summer” trends and moving onto a new phase of fashion. The trend: “Very demure, very mindful” has taken over the lingo of many young adults, and is transitioning into the fashion world. Now this concept has sparked two questions: 1) How can we take part in the trend of “demure” fashion? And 2) Haven’t we seen this trend before?

So, from what we have seen on social media and through fashion predictions for the Fall/Winter season, demure means one thing: not doing too much. Usually this would mean low effort in presentation, but it can also mean chic and simple style. This is the idea of clean and neat fashion, through silhouettes, prints, colors, or even price!

The best way to achieve the “very demure, very mindful” fashion trend is to think: modest, subtle, but still feminine. The best option to take part in this trend is to pick pieces that have high necklines or less cropped items. Another way is pick silhouettes with an open back, or wear dainty but flashy jewelry. We are also seeing this trend transition into Fall/Winter fashion, where the modest silhouettes have taken place in long skirts or off-the-shoulder sweaters. The concept of “very demure, very mindful” is to aim for an effortlessly chic ensemble, while highlighting subtle femininity and confidence.

Now that we have the first question covered, something worth discussing is the continuous trend cycle in the fashion industry. For example, the styles of the “demure” trend are very similar to the “clean girl aesthetic”. This trend of subtle, effortless, and girly fashion has definitely been in trend before, but took a back seat this summer due to the “brat summer” fashion. Even though the effortless, girly style never really goes out of style, it definitely had its resurgence due to the Tik Tok from Joolieanne. Since the “very demure” trend has gained popularity, it was a matter of time before it sparked trends in the fashion world, where it brought back chic, feminine style back into fashion.

Photography by : @alexcrpn - Instagram

Honestly, the resurgence of fashion trends is a great thing whether it's from a runway collection or through social media. It allows for different generations of fashion lovers to try new (or maybe just reused) styles. The trend cycle allows fashion to be revamped and rediscovered, making it a great outlet for more creativity and self expression through clothing! We see a variety of clothing used in multiple trends, but it’s just styled differently and given a new name. This is the beauty of trends, because they all feel familiar but allows for creativity to change things up!

If you don't want to hop on the trend now, you can always do it again (because trends will always come back around). If you rather not, you don't have to take part in any trends. You can just wear whatever makes you happy! That's the beauty of fashion: self expression, creativity, and taking part in trends (if you want to). 

P.S. 

Frankly, you can wear whatever you want whether it is trending or not. Fashion should be unapologetic, and it advocates for self-expression, so take advantage of this! You can take parts of trends you like, and match them with your personal style. As long as you are happy with your outfits, and being your most authentic self through your fashion choices, that’s all that matters! That is very demure, very mindful

With love,

Gabrielle Ramos, Intern

Photography by : Nina Westervelt & Lexie Moreland

CFDA Awards – The Appreciation of Art and Fashion

November 3, 2024 - The CFDA Awards happened last week (October 28th) to toast the success of the designers and industry workers in the world of American fashion. For those who are not familiar with The CFDA, it stands for the “Council of Fashion Designers in America”, which is rightfully named. The association is non-for-profit organization that promotes the talents of American designers in the fashion industry. 

Let’s start off by discussing the award ceremony. The ceremony was held at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. The ceremony honors the talents of American designers each year, highlighting the best designers in womenswear, menswear, footwear, accessories, and more! The CFDA awards host the event for industry workers, fashion lovers, and celebrities (like actors and musicians) to join in the celebration. As for some of the categories for awards aside from designers of the year, it included the Fashion Icon award (won by Erykah Badu), International Designer of the Year (won by Daniel Roseberry), and the Positive Change Award (won by Marc Jacobs). This award ceremony is the equivalent of the Oscars in the fashion world.

Naturally with a fashion-filled event, the red carpet looks expected to be amazing. Even though there were so many great looks that hit the carpet and we can’t list them all, here are a few of our favorite looks from the evening. 

Alix Earle in Hervé Léger

Kylie Jenner in Gaultier

Troye Sivan in Tanner Fletcher

Photography by : Jamie Mccarthy & Kristina Bumphrey

Darren Criss in Christian Siriano   

Alex Cosani in Area    

Addison Rae in Thom Browne

Photography by : Kristina Bumphrey & John Naciano

Although all of the red carpet looks were amazing (and honestly one of the best parts of award shows), the point of the ceremony was to highlight the talents of all of the designers. As lovers of fashion, it’s important to recognize the hard work and dedication of designers of our time, and the designers in times before us. Sometimes it’s difficult to remember that designers create passionately, keeping in mind that fashion is something created specifically to highlight the beauty of the wearer. We have to appreciate fashion as an art form, a form of self-expression, and an outlet for creativity – not just clothing on a rack. With these award ceremonies, it allows us to acknowledge and celebrate that fashion, for many creatives, is a form of love and a way of life. 

P.S. 

Even though fashion is an art form that is appreciated by those who (usually) have a vast knowledge of art/fashion, there are many ways to celebrate the world of fashion even if you don’t! You can celebrate by learning about new designers and understand the efforts put into the clothing you have in your closet. The easiest thing you can do is take care of the clothing you have and use it the way it was intended: wear it till you can’t anymore!

With love,

Gabrielle Ramos, Intern

Photography by : @GorgeousLaundry - Pinterest

“Less is More” – The Concept of Quiet Luxury

November 10, 2024 - In a world where fashion is loud, expressive, and quite honestly over the top, some people are partaking in the idea of “quiet luxury”. On the runway elaborate and exaggerated design choices take center focus, but off the runway we have caught glimpses of minimalistic and polished approaches to designer clothing. Quiet luxury will always be a staple in the wardrobes of many, but it does make you wonder: What is quiet luxury, and how do you spot it in fashion today?

The true definition of quiet luxury is: “the fashion movement that emphasizes investment in high-quality, minimalist pieces that have timeless appeal”. The short version can be summed up in three simple words: less is more. Now let’s break this down. 

In the world of fashion, designers create elaborate pieces (specifically the Haute couture and Avant Gaurde), but they also create pieces meant for the racks at retail stores. Each luxury designer keeps in tune with their brand whether it's through colors, patterns, or logos. Oh, so many logos. Some examples of brands that emphasize their logos are Chanel, Dior, and Louis Vuittion. These logos are slapped across shirts, shoes, and bags – but it’s not a negative thing, it’s just the idea of “loud luxury”. It allows the wearer to proudly share the luxury brand they are sporting.

While loud luxury is prominent in fashion, there are definitely some designers that aim for low-key design choices that still highlight their brand. In comes the concept of “quiet luxury”, where more subtle design choices still show the brand’s aesthetic. This can mean consistent silhouettes, color, or fabric choices, or subtle tags and logos hidden in the garments. Some brands that utilize “quiet luxury” are Miu Miu, Fear of God, The Row, and so many more. 

Obviously if we are discussing luxury fashion, we have to mention some celebrities who achieve the “quiet luxury” style with ease. Some celebrities doing this right are fashion icons like Sofia Richie, Hailey Bieber, or Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen. Some other stars include singers like Olivia Rodrigo or actresses like Gweynth Paltrow and Jennifer Lawrence. These big names are wearing luxury designers like Prada, Miu Miu, and The Row.

Olivia Rodrigo wearing a Miu Miu Suede Coat
Photography by : Manchester United via Getty Images

Sofia Richie Grainge wearing a Prada Belted Coat Photography by : Rachpoot/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

Jennifer Lawrence wearing The Row Linen Trousers Photography by : SplashNews

The best way to spot the stars doing quiet luxury right is how they style their pieces. Whether they are wearing a luxury designer dress or a pair of jeans from a thrift store, you wouldn’t be able to tell the difference because they are styling it in a minimalist, understated way. This means no flashy prints, no large logos – just simple, high quality, polished attire. The concept of quiet luxury is to invest in high quality pieces and style them in the most subtle ways. Frankly, that is the highlight of the trend: subtle and timeless outshines loud and luxurious, and it never goes out of style.

With love,

Gabrielle Ramos, Intern 

P.S.

The “quiet luxury” trend is not only obtainable to those who can afford luxury pieces! You can participate in this trend by investing in timeless pieces, instead of buying from fast fashion companies. The beauty of the trend is that style is achievable no matter what your tax bracket is. By wearing pieces that are personally valuable and express who you are is worth more than any designer piece – it's priceless.