Hey there fashionistas! Are you tired of pulling on sweaters and boots yet? Spring is officially here - and now it’s time to go on the hunt for the best deals on the cutest outfits.

What’s that? Don’t have much dinero to spend on a new wardrobe? Luckily, stores all across the U.S. have started to lower prices and create mega-deals to get you in their stores. Even discount doors like Target are offering designer duds for less than a whole month’s paycheck.

Target, known for its trendy Go International line, has debuted British designer Alexander McQueen’s “McQ” line for a limited time. Normally McQueen’s tops sell for a pretty $480 or more, according to his Web site - but on Target.com you can get a trendy t-shirt for $22.99. The line features everything from dresses to jumpsuits, all accessible on target.com.

Target is also featuring a handbag collection from designers Hayden-Harnett, whose leather Sonia Tote sells on the designer’s Web site for $548. If you find their line at Target, you can find something comparable (probably without the steel detailing) on clearance for $31.49. Target has also debuted a new handbag line from Felix Rey, online now.

Frugal favorite Forever 21 is also becoming insanely popular during these difficult times. Even though the clothes may not last you years of wear, the store has something for every trend setter - from jumpsuit shorts to flowing hippy dresses, at very reasonable prices.

Visiting the Forever 21 Web site has become easier now too - they have combined sister stores Heritage 1981 and Twelve by Twelve. The popular shop has now incorporated a shoe and bathing suit line, attracting us poor college students to their racks.

The Daily 21 Specials feature random outfits every day for the lowest of prices. Here, you can find a Knotted Front Tunic in red for $12.62, a pair of Grosgrain Pumps for $15.84, and a Glitter Clutch for $14.24. If you keep checking back, you are bound to find something that catches your eye.

Another option that’s pocket friendly? Why not take a peek at H&M’s spring line? With designer Matthew Williamson jumping on board to dish out deliciously cute pieces such as jewel-toned mini-dresses, buttery cropped leather jackets and retro-inspired clutches, what’s not to like? Bonus factor - H&M also has a surprisingly chic shoe collection to complement your spanking new outfit. We’re just dying to get our hands on the pair of cream colored, tie-up wedge sandals!

Want a shoe option with a little more bang for the buck? Steve Madden has been a recent fave of ours, ever since scoring a pair of leather ankle booties for under $100, and trust us, those babies have been put to good use. The store is known for its more than generous sales, with prices on their trendy styles being slashed at times up to 50 percent off or more.

Just browsing through their online store, SteveMadden.com, can turn up amazing finds. Click on the “Under $50,” “Sale,” or “Clearance” tabs and cha-ching! everything from versatile gold ballet flats to classic black pumps to comfy flat boots - right at your fingertips!

Shopping on the Web might be easy, but those shipping fees can really rack up the bill. To find some quick discounts for your favorite stores, go to Web sites like retailmenot.com or dealio.com. Sometimes the deals are magnificent (20 percent off my order from American Apparel!) and some are duds. It doesn’t hurt to try though, right?

Until next time, recessionistas! Bring your change to TD Bank and hit up the closest deals.
Happy shopping!

- The Recessionistas

LORENA CHOUZA and
MAGGY PATRICK
Executive Editor and Editor-in-Chief

It’s on our minds all the time. We want to look good. We want to keep up with the trends. But we still want to have some extra money in the pockets of our stylish jeans. Looking good on a budget is just one of the many dilemmas college students face. Still, it’s not as hard as it seems. Many clothing stores are geared towards the younger generation, which falls right in our college-age bracket. These stores have the goal of providing reasonably-priced, yet still fashionable, style that doesn’t look cheap or won’t shrink or tear after one round in the washing machine. Here’s the rundown on the top five stores for college students based on quality, price, variety and style. I have compiled this list based on opinions of various FDU students and my own. The stores are in order from cheapest to most expensive.

1. Target – Yes, I know, you may look at this and think, “Target, for clothes?” But don’t be too quick to judge. This mega-store that ranks as the fifth largest retailer in the U.S., according to a recent study by stores.org, and has recently been known for its collection of “cheap chic” clothing. Incorporating high-fashion designers, such as Isaac Mizrahi, Mossimo and Jovovich-Hawk, the store’s goal is to “design for all.” The prices in the “Design for All” collection - which includes the above mentioned designers and has a wide variety of items from simple t-shirts to good quality handbags – ranges from $9 to about $70 and has to be one of the biggest steals in designer fashion. My favorite thing about Target has to be the very cute bags and accessories, for example the new Gryson line that has just recently hit its stores. For the latest designer incorporations, check out designforall.target. com.

2. H&M – This Swedish store has recently risen in popularity among college students and has to be my overall favorite of the stores mentioned in this list. Filled with trends that seem to update regularly, prices usually don’t get higher than $40. Another plus of this store is that it receives design inspiration from top fashion designers and even celebrities; many pieces seem to take hints from high-fashion lines such as Prada and Hermes.

Sophomore Darnell Coleman describes H&M as “cheap, chic, [with] a lot of different choices.”

Men and women can choose from a wide range of clothing at H&M; from casual to work-appropriate to night-out-on-the-town styles. The store also has one of the biggest accessory lines, which is well priced. And if you’re allergic to fake jewelry like I am, most H&M accessories are tested to be “nickel free,” which seems to do the trick in preventing that awful bumpy rash some cheap jewelry can give, according to Allergizer.com.

Into donating money for good causes? H&M has been known to collaborate with organizations for such things as raising money for AIDS awareness with their somewhat recent line “Fashion Against AIDS,” which has incorporated the likes of Rihanna and Good Charlotte to design for it.

H&M seems to be a favorite among college students for its variety, fashion and price range.

“I love H&M because the clothes are unique, the prices are good and the sections are color-coded,” said junior Lori Palmer. “Just a lot of variety - business, dressy clothes and bummy clothes, so there’s always something. Since I’m really picky, I usually don’t find anything, but I always find something at H&M.”

Junior Julie DeSimone tends to agree. “My favorite [store] is probably H&M because it’s cute clothes for
cheap and I’m able to find both clothes for work and clothes for going out.”

Junior Andrea Jansky also agrees. “The clothes there are really cute and the prices aren’t too bad. When they have sales it’s great.”

H&M’s latest collections cost about $12.90 to about $35 with the most expensive piece being just about $60. To check out the latest lines and find a store near you, go to www.hm.com.

3. Express – This store is a go-to for party and office outfits. For women, styles range from exotic (think leopard print with gold touches, very Cavalli-esque) to graphic to faded (think the latest Prada line) prints. Men can choose from a wide selection of vests, sweaters, button-downs, polos and blazers. There’s also the ever-popular jeans and other casual pieces for when you’re not hopping from party to party and just want to relax or throw something on to go to that 9:55 a.m. class. Prices range from $16.50 to just around $80. For more information check out expressfashion.com

4. Gap – The store known for its classic pieces has recently revamped its look and marketability with incorporations from the RED campaign and high-end designers. When you want to stock up on the classic white button- down shirt, a pair of jeans that will last you at least through a few semesters or pick up a redesigned pair of Converse, this is the store you should keep in mind. Collaborations with the RED campaign, which raises money to combat the AIDS epidemic in Africa, and with such designers as Philip Lim allow Gap’s consumers to have an air of a sophisticated, knowledgeable, do-gooder.

“It’s always a plus when you know the company is contributing to a good cause,” DeSimone said.

Although some items are a bit pricey when they first come out, clothing usually goes on sale quickly and with huge discounts. This store is best to invest in the classic pieces that you will turn to time and time again. I find myself stocking up on its jeans when they’re on sale. They tend to run in a variety of sizes, shapes (such as skinny to curvy) and lengths (such as short to long) so more than likely you’ll find a pair that fits you perfectly and hugs all the right curves. Prices run from about $7.99 to $60.
Jackets can go up to the $100 range and jeans are from $49.50 to $69.50, with many going on sale as low as $9.99! To find out more, check out gap.com.

5. Urban Outfitters – Think of it sort of as an H&M, but with a vintage feel. This store, with a collection for both men and women, gets its inspiration from past decades and merges it with a funky-fresh take on things. With one of the best collections of shoes, ranging from sandals to boots to sneakers, and a collection of hats, from beanies to fedoras, you can find just about anything to fit your taste. A bit pricier than the other mentioned stores, Urban Outfitters usually ranges from about $20 to $80 but can have some items in the $100 price range. Sales are your best bet at scoring an amazing item. Check out the latest lines and find the nearest store at urbanoutfitters.com

With these stores in mind and a little personal intuition most college students can score an entirely new wardrobe on a budget without sacrificing fashion. Keep in mind that if you splurge on some items, such as jeans or shoes, try to save a little extra cash on pieces that you can interchange to create entirely new outfits, such as shirts and accessories.

“I’m always willing to splurge on jeans because it’s so hard to find a good pair,” said DeSimone. “Pretty much anything else I’ll try to get at a cheaper price.”

Coleman tends to agree with this shopping method. “I splurge on jeans and sneakers and hats,” he said. “I get jeans on sale also, but I never pay too much for a shirt. Cheap is good, I usually shop on the clearance rack.”

Also, know what you like. It may sound simple, but keeping in mind what you’re looking for and the style that suits you can save you valuable time in the changing room when you’re fumbling between one item or the other.

“When I shop, I look for things that are in season, and style,” said Coleman. “Bright colors, different colors, things that I think no one will usually wear. I’m a boy but I like fitted clothes. Baggy is so ‘90s.”

Find out what’s in for you, what suits your body and what fits your budget. Follow your own style, and be selective. At the end of the semester who knows? You might just have some leftover cash to spend.

LORENA CHOUZA
Executive Editor

Published in the May 1, 2008 issue of The Metro.

The classic: a piece that stands the test of time. In the ever-changing world that is fashion, it is the classic that remains eternal. The classic remains everlasting, when all other pieces sizzle for a brief moment, then fade away. Yet what is it about a classic piece that makes it so permanent? What is the allure that allows generation upon generation to fall in love with the classic?

From the CEO to the average student, it seems that classics have that something to lure everyone into their powerful hold.

FDU junior Sierra Hayes thinks that classics have that special appeal because, “They are so simple and can go with almost any piece of clothing. It just makes a quick, easy outfit.”

And it is this reliability and simplicity that makes junior Tara Graziano believe that just about everyone has a classic piece in their closet. “I think that everyone does own at least one of the classics…I know I do,” she said.

Junior Krystin Barnett agrees. “I love classic pieces in fashion. I find myself always turning to staple outfit pieces when I want to feel comfortable and put-together at the same time.”

Sophomore Dennel Avellana feels the same way. “I appreciate the classics. They are easy options when you feel like you don’t have anything to wear, and you can never go wrong with them.”

Thinking of the classic in our very own closets may, in fact, help us figure out what makes them such a staple in our wardrobes. Take jeans, for example. It seems that no other pant has been cut, colored, ripped, and adorned so much, and yet they still hold their natural allure. Jeans may also be the only pants that can be worn under a broad range of social situations. Wear them down with a pair of flats to class, or glam them up with heels for a night out on the town. It’s this very flexibility that makes us rely on them, love them, and keep them throughout the ages.

“I love jeans,” said Avellana. “I’ll never get tired of them. They’re timeless, comfortable, and they look good with pretty much everything. I rely on jeans as a staple for my wardrobe because of their versatility.”

The same sense of reliability goes for the crisp white button-down shirt, tank tops, and t-shirts. Change the cut, dye it a different color, put little frills and bows here and there, they all still remain utterly the same at their base and core. And who can forget about the reliable little black dress (LBD)? Need to go to a last-minute party or a lunch with the boyfriend? Slip into the LBD and you’re flawlessly set. Trench coats, peacoats, leather biker jackets, pencil skirts, cardigans, cashmere, ballet flats, Chanel pumps, Louis Vuitton luggage, Gucci’s leather shoulder bag, the Hermes Birkin or Kelly bag and even Calvin Klein underwear were all pointed out as classics in an article in last month’s Glamour. Under the category of jewelry, who can deny that a simple strand of pearls, a quirky charm bracelet, a pair of diamond studs, or a Rolex or Cartier watch can complement any look?

In fact, there are even some unique and semi-outrageous pieces that have become “unexpected classics,” as the article in Glamour puts it. For example, big sunglasses, animal prints, and even Pucci’s bright acid prints have all become staples throughout recent decades.

What may make all of these pieces everlasting, and termed “classics,” may in fact be that they are subject to change and can morph and mold themselves to fit the times. Just because they are permanent pieces does not mean that they don’t get tweaked and altered to blend in with the changes in society around them.

“Classics change,” wrote Lisa Armstrong in the Glamour article. “Yes I know, that sounds like a
total contradiction, but allow your mind to expand a little…The point is that updating a design doesn’t devalue its core values…classics need to be tinkered with from time to time.”

Hayes said, “Well classics do change, but not dramatically.”

Avellana added onto this idea, “Classics…simply go through phases of variation. A jean is always a jean, distressed or not. Their changes aren’t really significant enough for them to contradict what they stand for as classic pieces.”

Barnett believes that classics may change slightly but they, “still hold that something that makes them a classic in the first place.”

Yet even if classics do change to blend in with the times, they still remain utterly timeless.

“I think it is very funny to see how no matter how much styles tend to change throughout the years. The classics are the ones that still remain…even if they are altered,” said Graziano.

But what exactly keeps classics in style, despite the fact that they are changed?

Avellana sums things up, “Classics remain stylish because even with slight variations, they look great.”

Not only do classics themselves change from time to time, but their individual importance changes from person to person. Not everyone looks good in a trench coat or a tailored jacket. Classics are not the entire society’s uniform, but rather a personal statement.

“We’ve all got classics,” wrote Armstrong. “It’s just that they’re not necessarily the same as everyone else’s. That’s probably why classics have proved so adaptable and enduring. Or to put it another way…Sort out your own classics and your style will take care of itself.”

Many FDU students admit to having their own personal classics.

“The classic style that I can always rely on is the little black dress,” said Graziano. “It always comes in handy for many occasions. Whether it be a fancy dinner or just out with your friends, everybody needs a little black dress!”

Barnett said, “I love nautical, especially with dark browns and beiges. I think classics can be edgy and funky, never boring. For example, I love my aviator jacket, especially with tall boots, aviator lenses, and hoop earrings! Oh and I always wear this large face silver watch I got on the street in France…it’s got a very timeless look to it.”

It’s all about “nailing your personal style,” as Armstrong puts it. We all love mixing and matching a few classics with a very now piece, to recreate our image and establish ourselves as different from the pack. Yet it is the classic that we always turn to for that sense of security and the knowledge that we will look stunning, and effortlessly put-together, when that out-of-this-world fad piece is, simply put, so not you.

“Thank goodness for classics,” Avellana said. “What would we do without them?”

So, what’s your classic?

LORENA CHOUZA
Published in the February 28, 2008 issue of The Metro.

Models. They’ve got that pout, that pose, that perfectly sculpted body. But lately it seems that they’re more than just pretty faces.

Models have taken the dive into different fields that don’t necessarily require being beautiful as a prerequisite. Famous faces such as Tyra Banks, Heidi Klum and Kimora Lee Simmons are proving that they can do more than just strike a pose.

Model Simmons has expanded on her passion for fashion by creating and modeling for her own line, Baby Phat. The line, which stems from Simmons’ ex-husband’s Phat Farm line, uses Simmons as model and muse in their advertisements. Simmons, in turn, has creative say over the line, and is now president and creative director of Phat Fashions LLC.

In the television realm, it seems Banks has been the pioneer of modeling shows. With her hit show “America’s Next Top Model,” which is now in its ninth season, the Banks name has skyrocketed in popularity. As a result, she now has her very own talk show, “The Tyra Banks Show,” which is now in its third season. The show is aimed at young women and is set up under the same format as “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” with its mix of true life issues and celebrity interviews.

Another top model who hosts her own show is Klum. Much like her fellow Victoria’s Secret Angel Banks, Klum has developed “Project Runway.” The show, now in its third season, follows aspiring designers in a competition in which they are pitted against each other for a chance at winning a spot in New York Fashion Week, as well as enough money to start their very own fashion line. Klum stands in as host and judge on this Emmy-nominated series.

FDU students tend to think that models, just like everyone else, need to have more
than just good looks to get by.

“To be successful you need to be more than pretty. They need have the brains to expand their careers,” said FDU junior Sarah Carr.

Senior Mike Sorbino tends to agree that models need to possess more redeeming qualities than just being beautiful. This recent trend of models being more than just breathing mannequins is a good thing in his eyes.

“I think it’s a good trend because now they’re using their brains instead of their beauty to promote themselves,” he said.

This career expansion seems to have a ripple effect on the very popularity of the model. Are models now considered icons and celebrities in this day and age?

“Models have always been celebrities,”said Carr.

Junior Amanda Damato agreed but also pointed out that not every model has celebrity status. “Some models have made themselves into celebrities, like Tyra Banks. There are some of the really popular models that everyone knows but then there are others that no one has even heard of,” she said.

The overall opinion of many students is that all top models are right in expanding their horizons. Despite the fact that many of these shows may be copy-cat images of each other, most still are addicted into this high fashion and glamorous world, tuning in weekly to find out who will be America’s
next “top” model.

“Some of the shows are the same,” said Carr. “But I’m still watching them.”

Says Sorbino, “Keep the shows coming!”

LORENA CHOUZA
Published in the December 5, 2007 issue of The Metro

Working with your own sister? Some celebrities think it’s the key to success and have created their very own fashion lines, keeping it all in the family. Famous sisters Sienna and Savannah Miller, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, and Penelope and Monica Cruz have jumped in on this trend, reaping the benefits of having a reliable business partner.

British icon Sienna Miller has been known for her outfits as well as her acting skills. What most don’t know is that she has a designer for her sister. Savannah, three years older than Sienna, studied fashion design in Central Saint Martin’s in London and under such designers as Alexander McQueen and Betty Jackson. During a brief time when the sisters lived together, Sienna would serve as Savannah’s muse, inspiring her with her quirky attitude, comments, and even standing in as a fit-model.

“Sienna’s always been quite forward-thinking in her approach to fashion, so working with her is great as she comes up with crazy ideas that I perhaps wouldn’t otherwise consider,” Savannah said about her sister on the fashion line’s Web site (twenty8twelve.com). “She’s also great to bounce ideas off and was an excellent fit-model when I was freelancing.”

Sienna feels the same closeness to her sister. “Sav is the closest person to me,” she said in a recent article featured in Vogue Spain. “Now I’m working with her…what could be more fun?”

Their fashion line, Twenty8Twelve, is named after Sienna’s birthday. Sienna serves as the creative thinker, while Savannah stands in as the detail-oriented designer.

“I tell Savannah what I like, and she, who’s used to designing, is the one in charge of the details,” Sienna said in a recent interview with Glamour Spain. “I don’t pretend to make myself draw. I’m not an expert on the technical side of fashion, but I let my instincts take over.”

Their 80-piece line debuted in September in Nieman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman. The line has vintage feminine touches with an air of masculinity. Their style is set to target the mid-range when it comes to high-fashion versus cheap clothing.

“It’s designed to cover the gap that exists between very cheap clothing but that’s not of good quality, and that of great designers, that is exceptionally expensive and that you don’t even think of buying when your 28,” Savannah told Glamour.

“I absolutely adore the Miller sisters’ Twenty8Twelve line,” said FDU sophomore Dennel Avellana. “It’s edgy and androgynous with delicate feminine touches, and that’s something that strikes me as interesting and different.”

Twin actors Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen are also forward thinking fashionistas who have graduated from kid-friendly outfits to an edgier adult line. Known for their commercial appeal, the sisters already have been the face of their own clothing line, which was sold at Wal-Mart, when they were young. The difference was that the clothing was targeted at young girls and the twins had no say or input in the designing process. That all has changed with the introduction of their first high-fashion line, The Row.

“We want to control its image and each piece and each collection,” Mary-Kate said about the new line to Women’s Wear Daily. “The Row is very separate from everything we’ve done so far.”

Ashley added, “It’s definitely in a different marketplace.”

The line falls under a palette of dark hues, ranging from charcoal gray to pitch black, with just hints here and there of the purest white. In the U.S., the line is sold at Barney’s New York and Maxfield in Los Angeles. It includes such pieces as “$3,220 Tuscan lamb-fur coats, $1,700 cashmere tuxedo jackets with three-quarter sleeves, $875 banded strapless dresses and $360 legging-style pants,” according to the article in Women’s Wear Daily.

The twins’ newest line, Elizabeth and James, which is named after two of their siblings, shows a wider range of patterns and hues. “The spring collection, which will be the second season for Elizabeth and James, includes silk chiffon printed tops, high-waisted pants, slim skirts, leather jackets, evening gowns and silk party dresses,” according to another recent article in Women’s Wear Daily. The line is mainly sold on the West Coast by Neiman Marcus but is expanding to include wider spread audience. Elizabeth
and James seems to be the brighter, more upbeat counter part of the older Row pieces.

“When I hear ‘The Olsen Twins,’ I think original, offbeat, and eye-catching,” said Avellana. “This is why I was disappointed when I saw their lines. You’d think a pair of fashionistas like the Olsen twins would pull off a great line, but they ended up coming out with the stuff H&M put on clearance in March.”

Spain’s leading actresses Penelope and Monica Cruz have also created their own Spanish-inspired line for
Spain’s worldwide chain Mango. Modeling in the line’s ads, the sisters have designed a 25-piece collection (with prices ranging from $29 to 219) that includes exotically printed tops, oversized pants, retro and balloon minidresses, winter coats, and accessories, according to the chain’s Web site, mango.com. The Cruz sisters have been inspired by simple things, such as paintings and books on photography, and the very 50’s and 60’s eras to create this distinct, yet oh-so-Cruz style.

“[The line] is thinking about all women, [it’s] following trends, but it’s comfortable and elegant,” Monica said in a recent article in Glamour Spain.

FDU freshman Karina Rodriguez picks the Cruz sisters’ line for Mango as her favorite among the lines mentioned.

“Their clothes are edgy, yet still have a sophisticated tone to them,” she said.

What stands out as distinct from other contemporary lines is that the Cruzes’ exotic jacket pieces are made with only fake fur.

“We would never wear authentic fur, we’re against that,” Penelope told Glamour.

Having some experience in designing for Japanese brand Samantha Thavasa, along with being part of the glamorous world of the movies, fashion is not new to the Cruz sisters.

“Designing for Samantha Thavasa has given us some experience,” Penelope told Glamour. “But we have to be humble; it’s the first time that we make clothing. We love this world, we are really in touch with it because of our line of work. We dedicate time to it and we know about the topic, even though we aren’t professional designers.”

Students tend to think that a sister relationship, like that of the Millers, the Olsens, and the Cruzes, would be successful.

“I believe there could be a lot of success between sibling business partners,” said Rodriguez. “Not only do they understand each other better than say friends would, but they are also more likely to try and work out any problems that may arise in the process of creating a fashion line.”

Yet other students do believe that some tensions may arise out of a sister-sister business relationship.

“On one hand, they could be very successful because their lines could complement each other and they would obviously get along if they were business partners,” Junior Puja Patel said. “But then again…when people who know each other go into business together, their relationships tend to become strained.”

The Cruz sisters have proven otherwise, showing that working with one’s sibling is not only rewarding, but much easier in terms of communication.

“When we get together, we realize that the two of us are following the same path,” Penelope told Glamour. “We have a lot of telepathy,it’s something very curious…We’re a great team.”

LORENA CHOUZA
Published in the November 14, 2007 issue of The Metro.

A Vera Wang dress for under $200?! It is possible. Leading fashion moguls are creating their own fashion lines sold at much lower price tags.

It’s not only high-end designers like Roberto Cavalli and Wang, but stars such as Sarah Jessica Parker, Amanda Bynes and Kate Moss also have pursued their love of fashion by putting on the designer’s hat and trying their hand at providing runway clothing available at prices that most people can afford. These pioneers have teamed up with huge department stores worldwide to provide their clothing to the masses. With the current trend of popular stores such as Forever 21 selling copy-cat images and knockoffs of their runway clothing, high-fashion designers have retaliated.

Wang, known for her sophisticated wedding dresses, has started a “Simply Vera” line, which is sold at Kohl’s. Apparel, accessories, eyeglasses and even home furnishings are available at a $20 to $200 price range, according to Thebudgetfashionista.com. The look is classic Wang, urban chic yet simply feminine, all created under a dark palette of grays and gem-like violets for winter.

Italian designer Cavalli will release his line of affordable clothing in the well known retail store H&M. Following in the footsteps of such stars as Madonna, Kylie Minogue and designer Stella McCartney,
Cavalli brings his exotic touch to 20 men’s and 25 women’s pieces set to be released on Nov. 8, according to the official H&M Web site. The line, which mimics his signature style, ranges from bold
underwear pieces to breezy animal-print dresses.

Top model Moss has widened her fashion spectrum and has designed her own line for the British store Top Shop. The line is described as, “mixing rock’n’roll chic with bohemian charm,” on its official Web
site (katemosstopshop.com). Moss describes her line on the Web site as an “eclectic capsule collection of effortlessly cool, signature pieces” inspired by her very own wardrobe. The line ranges from sheer
party dresses to funky tops to classic overcoats and accessories to top it all off. Prices range from $7 to $300. Discounts slash the pricier and classic pieces - such as a leather cropped jacket - into something just about everyone can afford.

Actresses also have joined in on the “fashion for less” crusade. “Sex in the City” star Parker has revolutionized the fashion industry by starting her own line, “Bitten,” which sells everything for $19.98 or less in Steve and Barry’s stores nationwide.

“We’re so ingrained to think that we can’t get quality and have it be affordable. It was a completely new way of thinking,” said Parker in a documentary on “Bitten,”which can be viewed on the Web site. “I loved this philosophy. I loved the idea of quality affordable clothing, for everybody.”

“It is every woman’s inalienable right to have a pulled-together stylish, confident wardrobe with money left over to live. GET BITTEN,” as stated on the line’s manifesto on the Web site.

The “Bitten” line includes nearly 1,000 pieces, including wool and cashmere sweaters, woven and knitted tops, suits, dresses, swim wear, lingerie, and accessories, according to the official website, bittensjp.com. Parker herself models in the line’s advertisements, wearing shirts with the slogan, “Fashion Is Not A Luxury,” emblazoned across the front.

“It’s stuff that I will wear,” said Parker in the documentary.

Teen icon Bynes created her own line, “Dear,” which is also sold at Steve and Barry’s. Targeting her audience at “a younger woman who wants to be stylish on a budget,” all items are $19.98 or less,
according to the line’s official Web site (dearbyamanda.com). The clothes include casual, teen pieces, from hoodies to tanktops to jean skirts and beaded necklaces.

“I like the idea that designers are making cheaper lines,” said junior Kelli Chapleski. “Charging thousands of dollars for an item of clothing is ridiculous to begin with and the fact that fashion lovers can find pieces by their favorite designers for affordable prices will not only broaden the fashion world but could significantly increase profit for designers.”

Junior Beth Amodeo tends to agree.

“Personally, I think clothing is overpriced as it is,” Amodeo said. “Why should any of us have to pay $50 to $300 for a strip of cloth that isn’t even thick enough to clean my sink as good as a towel?”

Amodeo does think that some good can come out of these cheaper lines. She believes that customers, as well as high-end fashion designers will eventually profit.

“If fashion designers are making their clothing cheaper to compete with the knockoff companies, then I guess I say all the more power to them,” Amodeo said. “In the end, we are the ones they are competing for, and more competition equals lower prices, which is not only better but more
reasonable for us.”

LORENA CHOUZA
Published in the October 31, 2007 issue of The Metro

Designers have taken a stand against knockoffs by suing leading discount stores for copyright infringement. Leading fashion moguls such as Diane Von Furstenberg, Marc Jacobs, Anna Sui, Gwen Stefani, Betsey Johnson, and Bebe have sued stores including Forever 21 for copying their designs to precision and selling them for hundreds of dollars less.

One of the very first to sue to protect what she has created is Diane Von Furstenberg. Last March, Von Furstenberg sued Forever 21 for copyright infringement claiming that Forever 21 has stolen her designs and has sold them for practically nothing, the New York Post reported. Von Furstenberg has specifically pointed out two of her dress designs that have been mimicked perfectly, from the print and cut, even down to the fabric used. For example, her yellow vintage-like printed Cerisier shift dress (price tag: $325) has a cheaper twin, the Sabrina dress (price tag: $32).

Forever 21 is not the only store that carries knockoffs. Stores such as Mandee and Joyce Leslie have reaped the benefits of stocking replications of high-end fashion designers. Huge enterprises like Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s also rely on these cheaper versions to stock up parts of their stores, and bring in more revenue.

Offering the latest at a more reasonable price than their high-class counterparts, many would rather turn to these replications instead of emptying their pockets on the real deal. The problem arises when the inspiration from a certain clothing item turns into a complete copy or mirror reflection of it.

“We don’t copy anything,” says Ms. Anand of Simonia Fashions in a recent article in The New York Times. Anand’s company makes and sells its trendy clothing to such stores as Forever 21. Despite the fact that this clothing tends to mimic to detail high-end fashion, Anand says otherwise.

“We tweak it. We get inspired before we create it,” she told The New York Times.

“For me, this is not simply about copying,” fashion designer Anna Sui told The New York Times. “The issue is also timing. These copies are hitting the market before the original versions do.”

This is made easier through the evolution of technology. The truth is that high-end fashion shows dedicated to a specific season are held months before that actual season takes place. For example, clothing for the spring season is shown in runway shows usually during the previous fall (or sometimes even earlier). After a designer’s fashion show, pictures of their latest creations get posted online. All someone has to do is a little research and hundreds of pictures pop up in seconds. In turn, these “copy cat” companies just need to take one of these pictures, send it to their seamstresses and specify that they want something that looks like the picture. A picture perfect result usually turns out. A mirror reflection of the original is produced and sold in masses even before the original comes out onto the market.

It is common knowledge that the young adult usually does not have sufficient money to splurge on runway clothing. Knowing this, stores like Forever 21 have made these individuals their target audience. Yet with knockoff’s usual flimsy tailoring, and poor material, this audience is wising up and is realizing that it’s actually the pricey designer that deserves recognition.

“It’s right to sue them,” junior Nicole Seow said about Forever 21. “I mean, to use someone’s original idea or design, don’t you have to like discuss it with them first? It’s not fair to the designers.”

Seow said that the designers clothes are “so unique…one of a kind.” She thinks that knockoffs take away from top designer’s artistic value, since these copies do not give any recognition to the original.

“At least give them the glory of their work,” Seow said.

It’s not only the consumer that is wising up. The very mimicked and high-end designers themselves have packed a punch to get back at these imitations where it hurts most-affordable clothing. Realizing that legal actions just might not cut it, designers have created their very own separate line of clothing with affordable pricing. For example, Vera Wang has created her “Simply Vera” line for Kohl’s, and Sarah Jessica Parker has her line, “Bitten,” which sells everything for under $20.

Jumping on board, Target has launched its own initiative. “Designers for Target” aims at “collections that are affordable, stylish and inspirational,” as noted on the initiative’s Web site (designersfortarget.com.au). These designers’ believe that everyone “has the right to look
and feel great.”

“I personally love the idea of designers creating separate lines at much more reasonable prices,” said junior Krystin Barnett. “This way, you get the high-fashion name but at an affordable price.”

With unique designers from all around the globe creating their signature items for less, sales of knockoffs just might diminish.

LORENA CHOUZA
Published in the October 17, 2007 issue of The Metro.

We’ve all seen them. Those fatally skinny models, parading down the runway with their ribs piercing through their flashy designer outfits. And yet, most of us have come to idolize this image of starvation. The fashion industry, along with the powerful force of the media, seems to have forced “thinspiration” upon us. Sure, some women are naturally skinny but there is a huge difference from being healthy to the “skin over bones” look.

“In order to be a model I think that you don’t have to look as if you’re on your deathbed,” says sophomore Rochelle Rojas.

“Some women are naturally skinny,” says sophomore Leah Pederson. “But others are using drugs or starvation to be considered a runway model and are putting their lives at risk.”

Nowadays the public has come to believe that in order to be “beautiful” we have to be extremely emaciated.

“They are making it seem as if the only way a woman can be sexy and beautiful is if she is extremely skinny,” says Rojas.

“Men base their standards of beauty and attractiveness on this ideal and young women do the same,” says Pederson.

“It isn’t right that these modeling agencies have these standards for women,” Rojas says. “It isn’t healthy at all.”

In light of the recent death of 21 year old Brazilian model Ana Carolina Reston, who weighed a mere 88 lbs for her 5’8” stature at the time of her death, the fashion industry has come to realize that their standards are not only unhealthy but they’re frankly deadly. Reston is not the only model who fell to the same fate; recently 3 other models have died due to Anorexia. The most recent death was that of 18-year-old Uruguayan model Eliana Ramos, who was considered to have been under the World Health Organisation’s level of starvation. She was said to have been on a “diet” of only lettuce and diet soda to slim down for a fashion show in capital Montevideo. Not surprisingly her sister, Luisel Ramos 22, died six months earlier, collapsing dead on the runway at the same fashion show.

Due to these shocking events, some fear that the unbearably thin standards of the modeling industry (and celebrities alike) is sending the wrong message to today’s youth and overall causing a rise in eating disorders.

“I do believe that this is causing a rise in eating disorders,” says Rojas. “Most girls now feel that in order to look beautiful and just like a model you have to be a stick,” she continues. “There will be more and more cases of eating disorders just because of the modeling industry.”

Taking steps to correct this wide spread problem, Spain was the first country to enforce bans on pencil thin models in their fashion shows last September. Italy soon followed afterwards. Other leading fashion
moguls, such as those in England, were left debating the ban in their shows. The overall ban stated that any model who’s body mass index (a.k.a. BMI) was below 18.5 would be banned. This means, for example, that a 5’8” model weighing less than 122 lbs would not be hired. (The World Health Organisation states that the “normal” BMI is between 18.5-24.9. Under their standards, anyone under a BMI of 18.5 is underweight.)

“I’m completely in favor of this ban,” says Pederson. “It will project a better message about beauty and body image. This ban will hopefully send out a counteractive message that tells males and females alike
that beauty comes in all forms.”

NYC has also made steps towards the crusade on reinventing the unrealistic image of beauty that has been recently set in society’s minds. Although a ban on extremely thin models has not been passed as of yet, the Council of Fashion Designers of America has issued certain guidelines to alleviate the deadly state of today’s models. These include: banning models under 16 years old from the runway entirely, educating the industry about eating disorders, and serving healthy food during fashion shows while banning the use of alcohol and smoking.

Models and their employers are divided on the topic. Some believe it will not only help today’s models but it will also help those up and coming models who go to extreme measures to gain fame. Others, mainly designers, want to stick by the old system, believing that “skinny sells.”

The models that are in favor of the ban are such super models as Claudia Schiffer and Tyra Banks. Banks even stating on her TV show in a tearful speech (as reaction to the criticism she has recently faced for gaining weight) that, “if I had lower self esteem, I would probably be starving myself right
now. That’s exactly what’s happening to women all over this country.”

Why can’t we just come to the realization that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes? “Women are beautiful whether they are overweight, tall, short,” says Rojas.

Yet, it’s shocking how women in our society tend to underestimate their own beauty. A recent study done in 2004 only proves this. According to Glamour magazine, the results showed that only two
percent of women believe themselves to be “beautiful,” with less than one percent of the participants stating that they are “gorgeous.”

Maybe it’s because more and more we find ourselves trying to measure up to the unrealistic, airbrushed, emaciated images that are drilled into our minds on a daily basis. We’ve come to believe that the image of beauty is this one specific ideal, when in reality beauty is emanated through the unique individuality that everyone possesses.

Sure, maybe the regulations and bans that have been made for models will help alleviate the situation but after all it is up to us to change our mind sets on what we view “beauty” to be. Constantly we may
find ourselves pointing out the defects without looking past the flaws and realizing how beautiful we really are. Only when we come to embrace ourselves, how we truly are, will we finally be able to feel
beautiful inside and out. ’Cause baby, you’re beautiful!

LORENA CHOUZA
Published in the April 18, 2007 issue of The Metro.