Fashion may be too quick to stand by the old adage “forgive and forget”. It has only been three years since John Galliano was shamefully ousted from Christian Dior after a video of an anti-Semitic tirade he made was unearthed. The famed British designer went from one of the most successful faces of fashion to a reviled figure who Dior couldn’t distance itself from quick enough.

Despite Galliano’s best attempts to reinsert himself in the scene, he has remained on the outskirts. A workshop that he was scheduled to lead at Parsons last year was called off after it came to light that Galliano was not willing to comply with the New York design school’s wish for him to conduct a forum about the effect of his remarks on his career. Galliano was thrown a bone by Oscar de la Renta who allowed him to design a collection of dresses for his New York Fashion Week show last year, but he has still largely been ostracized.

Galliano’s condemnation to the periphery was alleviated on Oct. 6, when Maison Martin Margiela announced that he would be taking over as art director. The house’s namesake had retired in 2009 and had since been headed by a collective of unnamed designers. Of the appointment, Renzo Rosso, president of Margiela’s parent company, had this to say: “Margiela is ready for a new charismatic creative soul ... John Galliano is one of the greatest, undisputed talents of all time – a unique, exceptional couturier for a Maison that al- ways challenged and innovated the world of fashion.”

I’m all for a progressive mindset, but appointing a known anti-Semite may be challenging the world of fashion in the wrong way. Galliano apologized for his conduct in an interview last summer saying, “it's the worst thing I have said in my life, but I didn't mean it...I have been trying to find out why that anger was directed at this race. I now realize I was so angry and so discontented with myself that I just said the most spiteful thing I could.”

Galliano apologized, but there’s really no coming back from praising Hitler. It’s too bad that an esteemed house like Margiela felt the need to resort to Galliano, for not only will he bring the wrong kinds of scrutiny to an already stressful operation, but he’ll bring his penchant for heavy-handed theatrical designs to a normally avant-garde couture line.

As LL Cool J said in “Mama Said Knock You Out,” don’t call it a comeback. Instead, usher Galliano out.

By: Daniella Porano

As a university student, money is always tight. My decimated bank account is used to cover the basics of classes, food, rent, and my personal favourite, $200 hundred-dollar textbooks that professors never end up using. To my great sadness, this leaves virtually no room in my budget for purchasing new clothes and creating a dream wardrobe. Fortunately, basics that most university students have can be reworked into easy outfits that feel fresh and new.

The first step to having a wardrobe that is functional and versatile is investing in quality basic pieces. Step away from the Forever 21 denim rack and think about pieces that need to last. If you’re like me, buying cheap “fast-fashion” clothing at discount retailers in the mall feels wasteful, especially when they tend to fall apart after the first wash.

On the same note, while I love reading fashion magazines and browsing designer boutiques, the cheapest of pieces are still completely unaffordable to most university students. The compromising middle ground for us underfunded fashionistas is searching for quality pieces to build your outfits around. To do this, look for proper and in-line stitching, nice material, and a great personal fit, and don’t be afraid to spend some time in big box stores like Winners or even secondhand stores like Value Village, where quality (and designer) pieces can turn up for fractions of the original retail prices.

Most importantly, do not ignore your footwear and bag choices. The easiest way to jazz up the most basic of outfits is to subscribe to the power of a statement bag and perfect shoes. Although, I’d argue it’s important to invest in timeless pieces like neutral coloured boots (combat, riding, heeled booties, or other lasting styles) and similarly with bags, there is room to play with trends and vibrant colours and patterns. To make sure this works well and to ensure your style remains affordable, select pieces that mesh well with your basic pieces. Consider your current wardrobe whenever you go shopping for colourful or trendy pieces that accent your outfit and bring your personal style to life.

For example, I live in all shades of blue (particularly navy), black, and varying hues of gray, so when I shop for statement pieces I gravitate towards complimentary maroons, reds, and pinks. Keeping an inventory of the colours and styles of your basics makes shopping easier, more affordable, and keeps clothing from the dreaded ‘do-not wear’ pile at the back of your closet.

1. Dark-Wash Skinny Jeans

Every pair of quality dark-wash skinny jeans I own are quite possibly the best purchases I’ve ever made. The key to this style is simple: find a few pairs that fit you extremely well and build outfits around them. I’ve styled my own black and dark-wash blue jeans with everything from dressy peplum tops and colourful heels to a plain white t-shirt and combat boots with perfect ease. To change it up, try colourful denim alternatives like oxblood, military green, or dark gray.

2. The collared button-up shirt

Collared button-up shirts are one of my favourite pieces to wear. More fun than simple t-shirts, and not as dressy or demanding as silky blouses, they’re the perfect pieces to build an outfit around. Chambray/denim, solid colours, or even plaid, have the effect of looking prim and proper when buttoned up with a statement necklace, or looking cool and easy paired with boyfriend jeans and smoking slippers. Experiment layering under chunky knits or fitted cropped sweaters for fall for a cozy and refreshing outfit. Alternate between pairing with flared skirts and formfitting denim. Tuck them in or leave them loose. Button them up or leave them open with a great tee underneath. The options are limitless and perfect for chilly weather.

3. The perfect fall jacket

As Canadians, we can’t survive without a sturdy fall coat. Invest in a coat that goes with the majority of your wardrobe and that makes you feel instantly put together when you put it on. For me, it’s my navy military-esque trench, but it can be anything depending on your personal style. A perfectly cut leather jacket or a worn distressed denim jacket, a camel coloured trench or a cozy blanket coat, can be all that is required for a perfect fall outfit.

By: Daniella Porano

September in New York City marks the beginning of the semi-annual fashion pilgrimage that takes fashion’s elite through New York, London, Milan, and Paris on a month long fashion extravaganza. This past week, New York Fashion Week hosted a wide variety of designers displaying their Spring/Summer 2015 collections. The result was nothing short of New York fashion magic, with an impressive array of enviable trends and an innumerable amount of beautiful pieces suitable for any closet.

1. The military look

This look was effortlessly championed by veteran Marc Jacobs this season. His show swept the runway with a glossy collection of coats with large round buttons and pockets, complimented with structured dresses in earthy tones of cream, gray, army green, and navy. Shoes were an uncomplicated selection of either utilitarian sandals or black leather boots, a nice compliment style to the busy collection.

2. Floral prints

Floral prints were in full bloom for nearly all NYFW spring/summer collections. While floral prints are the most predictable staple for spring/summer collections, Michael Kors, Kate Spade, and Erin Featherson all created collections that were refreshing and beautiful. It served to remind us precisely why florals are so important for spring collections rather than feeling recycled and redundant.

3. Oversized jackets

Oversized jackets were critical to the runway this season, although they were surprisingly heavy and layered for spring/summer collections. Regardless, coats, jackets, and blazers were layered atop pretty feminine dresses and sharp black pantsuits in a manner that displayed a marriage of beauty and wearability. The designers used varying jacket styles to highlight their labels and set a tone for their shows. For example, Rodarthe used a multi-coloured army jacket to ground their airy asymmetrical skirts, which were paired with stunning mid-calf heeled gladiator sandals. Philip Lim designed sleeveless blazers and trench coats as an unexpected transition piece into spring fashion. Halston Heritage introduced a cape-like blazer as the new office essential, especially paired with easy black heels, well-tailored traditional trousers, and a simple clutch.

4. Full skirts

With slightly raised hemlines from previous seasons, NYFW redefined the chicness of the mid-length skirt with casual grace. Paired with simple white t-shirts and crop tops from Michael Kors, vibrant sweaters from Alice + Olivia, and structured utilitarian jackets from Proenza Schouler, the skirt has once again become the main event.

5. Gingham print

Gingham prints took an elegant twist for Oscar de la Renta, Michael Kors, Diane von Furstenburg, and Altuzzara. Their collections all embodied the classy elegance their respective labels are known for, with a wonderful turn on a classic summer print. Using light shades of pink and blue, as well as black, the print particularly stood out on de la Renta’s beautiful coats and crop top/skirt pairings, Altuzzara’s clinched waist dresses and blazers, and von Furstenburg’s breezy dresses of varying hemlines. The revival of the beloved print has certainly set spring/summer 2015 on a sensational path.

Brianna Buziak
The Silhouette

Most would agree that the only good slush is flavoured, in drink form and consumed in the summer months. But until the temperature rises, or until we encounter the infamous April heat wave, we are stuck with cold, wet, dirty slush. The worst part is figuring out our footwear: do we sacrifice warmth for dryness, or dryness for warmth? Well stay tuned fair reader and find out how with these options you don’t have to sacrifice either.

Women’s Classic Knee High Rain Boot $39.99 (Target)- The name says it all. These boots will never go out of style nor will they ever be out of commission unless, of course, you move to a desert.

Men’s Arctic Cat Sherbrook Cold Weather Boot $59.99 (Target)- Being described as being a cold weather boot and having a water resistant construction, we can only assume that this boot will keep men’s feet both dry and warm this winter season.

T-Max Heat Thermal Socks $9.99-$10.99 (Mark’s Work Warehouse)- if you want to continue wearing your tried and true wellies throughout winter, add a pair of thermal socks to keep your toes toasty. Available in both men’s and women’s, these are a great addition to any cold weather wear closet.

Hunter Boots $150 (Footwear retailers)- on the pricey side, these boots are meant to keep feet dry throughout the wet months. They are great for treading through slush but not necessarily the warmest. There are many options for fleece socks and insulated liners. Although not as popular, there are also styles for the gentlemen who don’t want to get cold feet.

Jason Woo
The Silhouette

One morning, as I pulled off my blankets and placed my feet on the ground, I reflexed and kneed myself in the face. That’s how cold and unforgiving the floor was. That is also how I knew it was November.

November marks the beginning of the annual “Dark Age”, in which it looks like it’s 2 a.m. outside when it’s actually 6 p.m. Do not fret though, as this is also the time to pull out your oh-so-comfortable, huggable, and everything in between sweaters.

Since they’re so amazing, here’s a list of different types of sweaters you can own so you can be comfortable everyday without wearing the same garment.

 

1)   The Classic Hoodie: This is so ubiquitous that I don’t really need to explain why it is awesome. Instead, I will say that a customized hoodie with a club name or favourite musician is a handy topic for conversation with strangers and acquaintances.

Where to find them: Pretty much any clothing store

 

2)   The Winter Cardigan: November is also the time you pack away your thin fall cardigans, but that doesn’t mean you need to stop sporting cardigans all together! Knitted cardigans are warm, fashionable, and can double as a miniature blanket.

Where overnight viagra to find them: Zara, H&M and the like

 

3)   The Christmas Sweater: Thanks to Macklemore, you cannot really find a tacky Christmas sweater at a thrift shop anymore, but this does not mean you shouldn’t look for one! Winter’s here to stay, so embrace it with your sweater and remind yourself (and everyone around you) that Christmas is just around the corner.

Where to find them: Thrift Shops, Urban Outfitters, Sears, tna

 

4)   The V-neck Sweater: November is the time to layer and this nifty garment lets you do just that. Paired with a dress shirt, a regular shirt, or just going solo, this sweater works for a variety of occasions. P.S. a sweater vest also serves the same purpose.

Where to find them: Banana Republic, Club Monaco, J. Crew

 

5)    The Turtleneck: One of the oldest types of sweaters known to man, this has truly stood the test of time. A true multipurpose sweater, it can be used in casual, business, and even sporty occasions as long as they are paired properly.

Where to find them: Gap, Tommy Hilfiger, Roots

*Note: no real models used in the making of this article.

Sending those boho vibes:

The classic boho scarf. This is the type of gal who will have a small novel of travel stories (whether she has actually seen the alligator infested rivers of Mongolia is irrelevant, isn’t it?) and is most likely waiting until you suggest grabbing a dark Americano in any independent coffee shop. Don’t suggest Starbucks, unless you’re prepared to back yo’ ass with how corrupt their profits are.

Picking up on a "parisian" glow:

This girl will probably greet you in French, even if she doesn’t know a word of it beyond, “Allo!” The tightly tied bow suggests a desire for control in her life, and so her term reports are most likely sprinkled with as many 11’s and 12’s as her single donut she indulges after ballet class.

Wrapping yourself in culture:

Oh, the sophistication. The culture is strong cialis on ine with this one. She will be more than pleased to share with you how the symphony went last night. In fact, her scarf only compliments her relaxed demeanor, and she would love a saunter through the courtyard of Divinity College.

Bundled up with giggles:

Bunny ears! She always has a little joke up her sleeve, just fitting for her quirky choice in scarves. Don’t ever underestimate her quick wit, even if she does enjoy reading her Sunday horoscope, simply for the “irony” of it.

Amanda Watkins
LifeStyle Editor

If you are a normal, living, breathing human being, either male or female, it is likely that at one point in time, you have wanted to be Zooey Deschanel. It’s a huge generalization, but that does not make it any less true.

Many “alternative” and “hip” celebrities, like Deschanel, sport a style that is uniquely their own and often reminiscent of eras past. And often, when we long for the style of another, we ask ourselves, how do they manage to look that way, all the time?

I’ll let you in on a little secret – many of these alternative and hip celebrities shop vintage.

Vintage clothing and styles have been popular since the early two thousands when thick-rimmed glasses made viagra tablet weight a comeback and Mad Men took flight with ratings. Old was new again, and styles long forgotten were resurrected by high fashion designers and street style pros alike.

Wearing vintage clothing tends to have yuppie-ish connotations that are both inaccessible and untrue. Second-hand styles are easy to find and can be worn by all. Buying twice-loved clothing is a sustainable and cost-effective alternative that allows for a unique and exciting shopping experience.

Hamilton is lucky to have several vintage fashion stores within the area that offer selections for both men and women.

Lauren Erickson, owner of La Bichette, a vintage and contemporary store located off of James St. N. and Barton, started selling second-hand fashions in June of this year when her store first opened.

“A lot of people think that because something isn’t new, the quality isn’t as high. But, it’s actually quite the opposite,” said Erickson.

Older clothing will often be handmade and feature higher quality fabric that can’t be found in today’s mass-produced goods. Detailing with buttons, stitching, and extended seams are also common traits that make for easy alterations, fittings, and unique styles.

When gathering goods to market at a vintage boutique, there are several different ways that clothing can be acquired and made ready for sale.

“I’ve been collecting for probably 10 years,” added Erickson when asked where her supply comes from. "I’ve inherited some of the pieces from family and friends, purchased some from estate sales, and have thrifted many of the pieces."

Consignment stores are also a popular choice for vintage shopping. They sell second-hand clothes from a starter price point, and as time goes by and the item is not sold, the price is gradually reduced.

Although boutique-style stores tend to be the more popular choice for second-hand and vintage shopping, there’s something to be said for thrift stores a la Value Village and Talize. With time and patience, filtering through racks can result in a rewarding shopping experience.

“If you’re going to shop vintage, make sure you have time,” recommends Erickson. “It can be a lot of fun, but you have to factor in time for trying on items and looking through all of the options.”

Shopping vintage is a lot like constantly finding great deals on sale. It can be a thrilling experience, especially when you find a unique buy. Some pieces are actually better purchased twice-loved, such as outerwear and party dresses.

“You’ll never have to worry about someone having the same dress as you,” said Erickson in reference to shopping vintage.

Purchasing vintage clothing is easy and accessible, especially in Hamilton. And contrary to popular belief, it is available and appropriate for everyone, and not just certain sects of society.

“Vintage isn’t just for hipsters. Everyone can wear vintage,” said Erickson.

Shopping vintage can be a fun and beneficial experience. Looking up to icons of the past, and alternative stars of the present, you may be setting the trends of the future. And if you look past the common misconceptions surrounding it, you may just be the next Zooey Deschanel.

 

 

Emma Suschkov
The Silhouette

You make some really beautiful dresses.  You make some ugly dresses too, and some dresses I don’t really understand, but still really want.  I’d like to own these aforementioned dresses but, for reasons beyond my control, I cannot.

This is one of the most reasonable priced products I have seen, and I trust online canadian pharmacy. Indian pharmacy. Since online pharmacies have appeared a lot of opportunities appeared which have to be implemented.

I think you’re missing a rather large target demographic when you design dresses.  The dresses and skirts on the market are absolutely PERFECT – if you are 5’4” or less.

It happens all the time – I’m shopping and see exactly what I want.  I go to try it on and then I check myself out in the mirror and – wait, when did this dress become a shirt?

I can’t buy clothes that don’t even cover the, you know, necessities.  It’s not about looking “slutty” (I will wear what I want, judgment be damned), it’s about the need to not flash everyone.  It’s not MY FAULT that nature made me tall and it’s not my fault that your dresses lead to public indecency.  Can you just do me a favour and ADD A MEASLY INCH OR TWO TO THE HEMLINE PLEASE?

This is not even coming from a six-foot tall girl – man, you girls have it rough.  How do you ever find jeans?  I’m 5’8”, and that is NOT that much taller than average.  Dresses/skirts should fit me!  Dressmakers, you would get so much money from so many more people.  Don’t you want that money?  Don’t you want to clothe the masses?

And yeah, I could go shop at those specialty stores for tall girls, where you see that longed-for “L” after the number size.  And where the prices are spectacularly exorbitant.  I’d love some well-fitting clothes, but I can’t sacrifice $150 at the altar of fashion for a single dress.

So please, people who design skirts and dresses for major retailers, make some things that’ll fit me.  Seriously, I need some dresses long enough not to need a pair of booty shorts as flash-prevention.

Get to it.

All the best,

Every dress-lover taller than 5’4”

Brianna Buziak
The Silhouette

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This Thanksgiving, you may find yourself at a get-together with friends or family. And if it’s been a while since your last family reunion, get prepared for the constant “I can’t believe how grown up you are,” or “I remember when you were only this tall.” Regardless of whether you have seen these party attendees two weeks ago or two years ago, a get-together calls for you looking your best.

Girls

No matter what, you can’t go wrong with a denim shirt (unless it’s paired with matching jeans). We’ve paired a light denim button down with a textured cranberry skirt. The colour of the skirt fits in with autumn beautifully and should you happen to spill some cranberry sauce on yourself in the middle of dinner, it may just go unnoticed.

Tuck the shirt into the skirt and roll up the cuffs of the sleeves a few times for a more relaxed look.

For when the night gets a little chillier, add this knitted shawl cardigan for a warm and cozy look.

This statement necklace inspired by autumn leaves compliments the outfit by incorporating the cranberry colour from the skirt into another element of the outfit. Since the meat and potatoes of this outfit are basic, have fun playing with the accessories. Patterned tights are always a great go-to accessory to add extra style and warmth once the temperatures start to drop. Perfect for an autumn evening.

The final touch to any outfit is the shoes. Nothing says fall quite like a pair of lace up oxfords. Keep the heel small so you can mingle around the room and aren’t glued to the couch because your feet hurt. Enjoy the season of fashion and socializing.

Payless: $30

H&M: $19.95

Forever 21: $9.80

Dynamite: $39.90

Aeropostale: $30

Icing: $18.75

Boys

Girls aren’t the only ones who get to play with fashion these days. Our handsome boys have more options than ever before when deciding what to wear. For the gentlemen, we have a pair of navy trousers, a great neutral to carry through to every season. Look for these in a slim cut to maintain a put-together look. The only natural option for fall is to channel your inner lumberjack and rock a plaid flannel button down. They come in a wide variety of colour schemes so choose your favourite.

To, literally, top it off, we’ve added a light fleece sweater in light grey. Wear the sweater so the collar and a small portion of the neck of the flannel are showing. Cuff the sleeves of the flannel over the sweater to tie it all together.

Add a pair of faux fur lined moccasins to keep the outfit comfy and casual.

Aero: $22.25

H&M: $29.95

Old Navy: $15

Payless: $25

Katie Dhaliwal
The Silhouette

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For all the fashion-forward students out there, there’s a new club in town. “Style at Mac”, is a website and student-run group that offers fashion lovers recognition on campus. Run by three McMaster students, Nancy Pham, Sherry Du, and Victor Cheng, SAM uses photography and fashion to share homegrown Hamilton styles with the student community. Du, a fourth-year Biology student, loves blogging, photography and making her own jewellery. Cheng, a third-year Multimedia and Communication Studies student, is an esteemed “iPhoneographer” and loves to design his own clothes in his spare time. The two sat down for an interview with LifeStyle to discuss their new initiatives and to give us the inside scoop on fall fashion trends.

First, it’s important to note that SAM isn’t just a fashion blog—according to Cheng and Du, it’s a venture that attempts to create an open forum for students interested in fashion to meet, discuss their passions and express themselves. Previously missing from campus, they felt that this club would try to fill that niche for fashion enthusiasts. This initial idea was what led to the creation of their new website and plans for an upcoming fashion show in March.

Their website displays some of these trends and focuses on students with outfits that SAM’s photographers have deemed eye-catching or original. They’re looking for “great patterns, a well put together outfit or even just a great choice of colour,” says Du. However, this isn’t to say that these outfits will be rated or dissected. Victor made it very clear that the aim of the website is to simply document and share new trends while creating a sense of pride in those that are photographed. Du added, “It’s important that we try to create an inclusive environment that showcases uniqueness on campus and the diversity of all students”.

Their plans for their first fashion show will also feature McMaster talent by showcasing the work of student designers as well as local, independent clothing boutiques to support our surrounding community.

Only one month into the semester and SAM has already picked out some fall trends emerging on campus. Cheng mentions vintage clothing and styles from the 80s and 90s have made a big come back, with combat boots being a major front-runner in must-haves for the season.  And for those of us that struggle to find something to wear on days with early morning lectures, SAM has us covered, as it’s a question they often ask the stylish men and women they photograph. A good suggestion would be to take a few extra minutes to plan your outfit the day before, so that in the morning it’s quick and hassle free. Cheng also emphasized not to wear the same coloured shirt and pants unless it's all black. As for favourite accessories, Cheng can’t leave home without a watch to complete his outfit, and Du loves a silk or cotton scarf with a bold colour or pattern because “they’re an easy way to spruce up any outfit”.

You can check out SAM at www.styleatmac.tumblr.com. Their March fashion show is a few months away, but in the mean-time keep an eye out for their cameras and keep our campus stylish.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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