The Fashion Dungjen

When I get a job... | The Fashion Dungjen

2010-01-30T19:45:00.001-08:00

I am buying this bag. I have been eyeing it for at least a year. It's a little expensive for my current income, $91 plus shipping. I'm motivated to get a job anyway, but this definitely would be an extra bonus.

No, Cincinnati doesn't suck | The Fashion Dungjen

2010-01-27T10:09:00.000-08:00

I do this thing where I listen to other people’s conversations when I am near them. I wouldn’t say it’s necessarily a problem — I’ve learned some interesting things about campus happenings and it’s actually led to a story or two on the news page.

Sure, there are times I hear things I’d rather forget — like the guy with a three-week old rash and the very confused and concerned first-year student, “How many guys do I have to sleep with before I’m considered a slut?”

(Can someone answer that question? Seriously.)

And sometimes I hear things that get me thinking and fired up. Last week I overheard two women in Tangeman University Center talking about Cincinnati’s lacking fashion scene. I didn’t catch the entire conversation, but it seemed their overall consensus and generalization was that they can’t wait to get the heck out of Cincinnati and b-line it to New York. In their eyes, Cincinnati’s fashion scene is dead and they’re sick of being surrounded by people who don’t dress well.

I can’t say that my idea of Cincinnati was much different when I started at UC. But at that point I felt determined to get out and explore, to see what was outside of the constraints of campus. I admit, the idea of leaving campus was kind of intimidating. I didn’t know where I was going, didn’t know what to expect or who I might encounter.

But, I did it. I mustered up the courage, asked my Cincinnati-native roommates to join me, and we explored. And when we did, I was surprised at what I saw. There were independent boutiques out the wazoo and I could almost afford to shop at them. The people manning the stores were young, hip, trendy and had a pleasant personality that made shopping and visiting the stores more comfortable.

I started to feel a little bit better about Cincinnati. Year after year I’ve kept exploring areas around campus. At this point, I’ve cast inhibition aside and I’m willing to explore even the sketchiest neighborhoods just in case I’m missing out on something fantastic.

As I kept searching, I began to notice just how fabulous Cincinnatians are. Look around campus, for example. In the last three years, there has definitely been a positive shift in the ratio of people who couldn’t dress themselves well in Vogue’s fashion closet and people who could make anything look good. It would seem Cincinnati has caught the fashion bug.

I mean, in 2008, Esquire named Cincinnatian Kenyatte Nelson, a brand manager, as one of the most well-dressed “real men” in America.

Last season on “Project Runway” one of the contestants was a graduate of the College of Design, Architecture, Art and Plannings fashion program. Laura Dawson, who graduated from DAAP in 2002, was a contestant on Bravo’s reality TV show, “The Fashion Show.”

Whatever your fashion philosophy or personal aesthetic, there’s probably something in Cincinnati that fits your fancy. (That will mean you have to look outside of the immediate borders of campus though.)

And if you really can’t find anything among the myriad of independent fashion boutiques to entertain your fashion whimsy, every year, during DAAP Works, the end-of-the-year senior showcase for DAAP students, graduating seniors in the fashion program produce an on-campus fashion show highlighting their work. Although I’ve never made it to the show, I’ve seen the pictures. It’s worth the ticket price.

So you might argue that New York has Fashion Week. Yeah, they do, but now so does Cincinnati. Cincinnati native and fashion designer Nathan Hurst is organizing the city’s First Week of Fashion. The show is being hosted April 19 to April 23. It’s a five-day extravaganza of local, high-end fashion and promotional events. What more could you ask for?

It took me awhile to notice how abundant and unique Cincinnati’s fashion ideology is. And true, Cincinnati isn’t New York or Milan or London. But isn’t that what makes it so great?

To prove Cincinnati is fashion savvy, I’m on a hunt for the most fashionable people on campus. You can nominate yourself or someone you know who does it right, send me an e-mail with at least two pictures, your contact information, the nominees contact information and why you think the person you’re nominating has what it takes. Send information to thefashiondungjen@gmail.com.

Clothing donations for Haiti | The Fashion Dungjen

2010-01-15T19:30:00.000-08:00

Photo from the Associated Press

It's a long weekend. Sure, you probably have some homework to do, maybe you have to work or have other obligations. But, if you have an extra half hour, consider those affected by the earthquake in Haiti and how you can help.

Chances are you have clothes you don't wear -- things that don't fit, things that were totally so five minutes ago. Take a half hour, sort through your things and donate what you don't or can't wear to those who have lost everything in the earthquake.

From Tuesday, Jan. 19, through Friday, Jan. 22, the College Republicans at the University of Cincinnati are hosting a donations drive in front of Tangeman University Center, 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The student organization will take the donated items (clothing, food, money, water, hand sanitizer, anything you can give) to Matthew 25 Ministries who will then send the goods on to Haiti.

Ignore party politics on this one, folks. This is something bigger than political and social agendas.

For many college students, money to spare might not be a realistic option. Donating clothing, however, is. I've already started to sort through my things, gathering shirts, skirts, pants and shorts that I haven't worn in years.

If you know of other organizations that are accepting donations in Cincinnati, or if you are doing something to aid in the effort, please let me know at thefashiondungjen@gmail.com. Send photos of your clothing donations and text to accompany. I'll post it to the blog. Encourage your friends and family to do the same. Any little bit helps.

V Magazine hilights curvy models | The Fashion Dungjen

2010-01-13T21:57:00.000-08:00

Fashion magazine editors are having a love affair with plus-size models. In the last several months, they’ve been featured in more magazines than it would be worth counting.

Some might say it’s a step in the right direction.

Others would tip the scale differently.

The plus-size model featured in the average high-end glossy is about a size six, a size most American women dream of. A size that, if the average American woman was, would feel stick thin; some might even say too thin. The fashion industry’s plus-size beauty standard is Heidi Klum plus one extra large pizza and a few beers.

But what if a magazine dared to feature women with actual curves? Someone who would be more relatable than Rebecca Romijn, Naomi Campbell or Kate Moss?

That is exactly what V Magazine is trying to do. The magazine’s size issue, which hits newsstands Thursday, Jan. 14, doesn’t just measure up to previous attempts to include plus-size models, but blows those attempts out of the water. It is bigger and more beautiful than the Beth Ditto cover of Love magazine from nearly one year ago.

The women, some wearing nothing but stilettos, are beautiful.

The photos are striking and not just because they’re masterfully done. (The photographs of V’s plus-size models are available for preview on models.com.) These women have curves and rolls and thighs and butts. They have breasts and calves and guts. What they don’t have, though, are dimples, uneven skin tones or any dermatological blemish to speak of. The amount of retouching on the images is disheartening and, in some ways, destroys the integrity of the shoot.

“It’s like they did so much [retouching] to make up for the fact they’re curvy,” said fourth-year journalism student Emily Lang. “Their faces, not their bodies are distracting, in a weird, unnerving way … They don’t even look real.”

But, the women are real. Favorable to all, they are not.

In an online forum, a reader wrote that they were disgusted by the images. Karl Lagerfeld previously said, “No one wants to see round women.” But in this issue he shot an editorial spread of Miss Dirty Martini, a voluptuous burlesque dancer for the size issue; it would appear he’s eating his words.

While I hardly doubt “no one wants to see a round woman” (the average American woman is a size 14, after all), some can’t shake the idea. When discussing the magazine’s campaign with a good friend, who has a few curves of her own, she said she’d rather see emaciated models who look like they have eating disorders instead of curvy, more healthy-looking women.

As a woman who has never been thin, as a woman with a great interest in fashion and the industry, I say it’s about damn time. Not only is the spread incredible, in time, this could dispel the common notion of what a plus-size model is. And, wait for it, if exercising patience is a skill of yours, you might see the term “plus-size” dissipate. Instead, maybe, they’ll just be models.

What a world that would be.

Thankfully, it would appear that I’m not the only one who welcomes the trend.
“Usually plus-size models are just thicker models, these women you can actually see their tummies and everything,” said Tifanei Moyer, a fourth-year communications and public relations student. “They look phenomenal.”

There are some separate modeling agencies for women who are considered to be

plus-size. One of those agencies is Ford+, which is headed by Gary Dakin. In an article by the Telegraph UK, Dakin had encouraging comments for what could come of the magazine’s feature.

“I am thrilled when I see these pictures,” Dakin said. ”Firstly, it shows that these girls can work with great photographers and amazing magazines like V and be taken more seriously for the work they do. For my girls, it means that the word ‘plus’ can hopefully go away soon, since they are now working in every major magazine in the world. It reinforces my belief that beauty comes in an assortment of sizes, shapes and colors.”

And now, what about diversifying the pool of plus-size models, to include women of all colors, ethnicities and backgrounds?

Or is that asking too much?

WANTED | The Fashion Dungjen

2010-01-05T15:53:00.000-08:00

There are some seriously fashionable people on the University of Cincinnati's campus. Seriously? Have you ever seen these people?

We, OK, I, spend a lot of time bashing other people's fashion choices in my weekly News Record column. So, I figured, it's time to recognize some of the work the well-dressed people put in. (Plus, then, maybe, the not-so-well-dressed folks could take some tips.)

Right now, The News Record and The Fashion Dungjen are looking for sponsors and people who would be willing to donate prizes for the well-deserving winners.

Interested? Know someone who might be interested? Send an e-mail to thefashiondungjen@gmail.com.

Sales in Clifton | The Fashion Dungjen

2010-01-04T12:48:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love a good sale? Shoot, I know I do. Chances are, you probably have a little bit of money left from your holiday -- gift cards, money from aunts, uncles or grandparents -- so why not use it to spoil yourself and support a local business at the same time?

If that sounds OK to you, you're in luck. Pangea, Toko Baru and Toko Baru Kids are all having a 20 percent off sale. The sale isn't limited to old merchandise. Oh no. Signs advertise that the sale is on everything in the store. Sounds pretty sweet, huh?

Even better? All three stores are on the same street, Ludlow Avenue in Cincinnati (Better yet, they're practically neighbors.).

Happy shopping. Find something you can't live without? Share your new purchase with us!

Gingerbread boys and girls | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-12-18T16:45:00.000-08:00

I wanted to make some seriously stylish gingerbread boys and girls today. I tried. I did not conquer. It's a lot harder to pipe on the clothes than I thought. Here are some of the results:

Here's Suzi, a little fashionista with a blue bow and matching belt.

My sister made this one. She says it's a tourist. That red blob is supposed to be a hat.

My sister made this one too. He's a "fellow in yellow."

Kasey made this Santa.

Kasey made this old lady, Dorothy.

She also made this "nerd."

This is Kasey's "ho" cookie.

Men in bow ties. Cute.

Fred the corporate amputee.

GHOST COOKIE.

Kasey's bride. We were also watching Platinum Weddings while decorating. It might have been her inspiration.

The unsatisfied business man.

Christmas cookies | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-12-17T16:54:00.000-08:00

I bought a cookie press today. It's so excellent. So, to break it in, I made some Christmas tree spritzer cookies. They're delicious. And very buttery.

I brushed them with egg whites and added red, green and white sprinkles.

I wish I could share them with you all. Since I can't, I'll share this picture with you instead. Enjoy!

Bows, bows, bows! | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-12-17T13:44:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure when it started, but lately I've had a thing for anything with a bow. Maybe it's because there's an almost really cute pair of white gold diamond bow earrings at work (I'd prefer them in yellow gold and without diamonds.) that turned me on to them. Maybe it was an old picture I'd seen of myself (high school) with a big coral bow in my hair. I wish I knew where that was.

Whatever it was, I'm obsessed. Here are some of my favorite bow accessories I found on Etsy.

a- Headband, $39
b- Red bow pin, $20
c- Three-bow pin, $55
d-Bow necklace, $12
e- Studded bow necklace, $34
f- Vintage pearl and bow necklace, $70
g- bow cuff, $42
h- bow and lace necklace, $27
i-coral bow pin, $32
j- huge bow, $10
k- floral bow necklace, $10
l- turquoise bow, $30
m- hair bow, $8.99
n- gloves, $28
o- hair pin, $8
p- bow and chain, $30

I want more | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-12-16T14:18:00.000-08:00

a - key necklace, This sold before I could post it.
b - bow earrings, $5.50
c - elephant necklace, This sold before I could post it.
d - fork and spoon necklace, $9
e - dandelion pillow, $28
f - dress, $124
g - question mark necklace, $40
h - Esmeralda worry doll, $6
i - octopus necklace, $14
j - letter necklace, $32 (I would want a 't.')
k - floral collar pin, $45
l - rainy necklace, $24
m - satchel, I can't find where I found this. :(

Pantyhose fail | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-12-11T20:21:00.000-08:00

Whoever thought these waistband-free pantyhose were a good idea was obviously delusional. I accidentally bought a couple of this particular style a couple weeks ago when I needed them for work. I didn't realize they weren't my usual type until I needed to wear them. The box boasts them as being "roll resistant" which, for the record, is not true. I've never had so many issues with a pair of pantyhose. Maybe they're roll resistant if the person wearing them stands straight with little to no movement for the duration of wear.

I say these pantyhose are a fail.

I want ... | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-12-10T21:17:00.000-08:00

I need one of three things:
a) A lot of money.
b) People with money who want to buy me things.
c) Someone to give me their money so I can buy me things.

My most current desire, aside from anything to furnish an apartment, is a satchel. Mmm.

And scarves.Bigger really is better.

I first thought this was listed on Etsy as 'The accidental cow.' Oops. The accidental cowl.

Circle cowl scarf in lemongrass.

And anything to keep me warm.
Owl fingerless gloves.Take a bow ear warmer.

Guest Blogger: Skip the splurge

2009-12-07T08:37:00.000-08:00

I’m Jessica, but my friends call me Jess, and even people who aren’t my friends call me Jess. I grew up living in closer proximity to cows and cornfields than any establishment that could be considered a mall. An admitted sucker for accessories, I’m also a firm believer that there is nothing wrong with wearing black on any occasion. My favorite things include quotes and YouTube videos. The quickest way to my heart is through a John Mayer song or a great pair of shoes.

I have been cursed with an infatuation with designer fashion. This obsession was much easier to satisfy when Hollister qualified as “designer” and my parents still thought it was their parental duty to buy me clothes. I soon realized SoCal hoodies wouldn’t feed the hunger forever.

In high school I found myself with a lot of spare time (like every day during physics and calculus), which only encouraged my addiction to reading fashion magazines. Thanks to Vogue, Elle and Harper’s Bazaar, my eyes opened to the real world of designer fashion.

I began referring to Michael Kors, Betsey Johnson, Stella McCartney and Marc Jacobs by first name, as if we were old friends. (Too bad we weren’t actually old friends; maybe I could have scored a discount.) While this fashion rebirth was occurring, something else happened. My parents stopped thinking it was fun to buy all my clothes. Now, as a first-year student at the University of Cincinnati, I have come to an unfortunate but inevitable realization: I have no (OK, very little) money.

Still, to a die-hard fashionista, being poor is only a minor setback. Thankfully, the design gods came to my rescue. Many of my dear, name-brand friends began creating more affordable guest lines for major retailers. The emergence satisfies the need to experience the bliss of wearing a beautiful, well-made garment, while keeping me far from over-drafting my bank account or maxing out my AmEx. I’ll even let you in on the best thing to happen to fashion since Diane Von Furstenberg’s wrap dress. Here are my current top five favorite designer guest lines:

1. Jimmy Choo for H&M – The lust-worthy stilettos and handbags arrived just in time for the holiday party season! Every girl should own a pair of Jimmy Choos and now we can. Let’s all smile as we torture our feet in the name of fashion, knowing that we didn’t torture our bank accounts.

2. Jemma Kidd for Target – Her line is always on trend with the hottest color palettes and most wearable makeup. The fun cosmetic products are long lasting and an affordable luxury. Plus, who doesn’t love an excuse to go to Target?

3. Miley Cyrus and Max Azria for Wal-Mart – At first, the thought of this collaboration made me a bit nervous. Actually, it made me cringe. But I must admit, there are some insanely cute pieces in this collection and with everything priced at $20.00 or less, you can try out several of the rock star-inspired garments.

4. Christian Siriano for Payless – Project Runway fans: rejoice! The designer lends his talent and impeccable fashion sense to this collaborative line of shoes and handbags. With edgy zipper details and gold accents the Elisa Sandal and Carolina Pump are, dare I say it, fierce.

5. Vera Wang for Kohl’s – The sophistication of Vera is now available to the masses. The collection is perfect worn in individual pieces or as an entire outfit. Plus, Vera offers apparel, shoes and handbags to make any wardrobe complete and completely affordable.

Dillards discount for UC students

2009-12-01T10:47:00.000-08:00

Hey University of Cincinnati students,

Black Friday is over but the deals and savings are not. I just got a heads up about a special deal for you. Tomorrow, Wednesday, Dec. 2, if you present your UC ID, you can receive a 20 percent discount on your purchase ONLY at the Kenwood location. That could be some serious savings if you need to pick up something for your holiday party outfits or a gift for someone else.

Happy shopping, friends!

Threading | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-11-18T12:36:00.000-08:00

Before Veterans Day, it had been quite some time since I had my eyebrows done. Actually, it was right before I finished my summer internship in Portland, Ore.

Missy, one of my Portland roommates, was going for a bikini wax at a quaint, one-room shop, The Wax Shack. I sat in the 90-degree hallway for about 30 minutes waiting so we could hit up the Portland Beavers baseball game.

When they were finally finished and came to find me, the woman who runs the Shack took one look at my eyebrows (which had not been waxed since before I went to Portland about 11 weeks prior), and said “You cannot leave here like that.”

Long story short, that was toward the end of August. Veterans Day was last week. That’s a pretty long time to go without any sort of eyebrow grooming or upkeep. My eyebrows, to say the least, were a little out of control. So, when I went home, Mom offered to pay to have my eyebrows threaded.

Because Mom was buying, I was game. Over the river and through the suburbs of Dayton to the mall we go.

If you’ve never had your eyebrows threaded, it’s quite the experience.

Threading is an old practice traditionally used in Eastern countries, like India and Egypt. In the last couple of years it’s become more popular in the United States. You can even get your eyebrows threaded in Cincinnati. Maison De Sourcils in Kenwood Towne Centre offers threading. One session with them takes about 10 to 15 minutes, but costs a pretty penny: $32.10 plus tax.

(I went to Nirvana, a shop in Dayton Mall – the price there was $8, four times less than Maison De Sourcils, but also not an eyebrow specialty location.)

It’s a fairly simple process – the only thing the stylist uses is a piece of cotton thread and steady, precise hands. The lack of chemicals or anything else touching the skin means it’s super sterile, which is a plus for a germaphobe or anyone with allergies.

The cotton is wrapped around unwanted hairs, kind of like a lasso. The hair is pulled from the follicle, which means the threading is supposed to last longer than something more common like waxing or plucking.

Because the thread has to lasso the unwanted hairs, it’s ridiculously precise. Even after waxing or plucking with my favorite stylist I usually have to go back through and pluck
a few stray hairs. This time, no such thing.

It sounds pretty cool, right? Sounds like it might be worth your $8 for a simple procedure that lasts up to six weeks. (The hair removal can become permanent if you have it done often enough.)

But I, for one, will never have my eyebrows threaded again.

Threading took about five times longer than waxing and was at least 1,000 times more excruciatingly painful. I’ve since read testimonials that say the opposite, but, in those testimonials, they also say they were given a numbing spray or had a warm cloth compressed on their eyebrows to make it easier to remove the hairs.

Perhaps it was my anxiety that prevented me from finding any redeeming quality about my experience, but I could feel every hair being yanked from my face and the sound of the thread twisting was too much to handle.

My toes curled. My hands were sweating. I wanted to reach up, grab the woman who was threading my eyebrows and throw her to the ground.

I may or may not have cried.

My younger sister Kasey was next in line to have her eyebrows done. After watching me struggle to maintain composure she opted out of the experience. I wish she had volunteered to go first.

No more threading for me, but if you’re into some sadistic-type of pain, you might want to try it for yourself.

Wild about waxing or would you rather admire your flawless – but throbbing – threaded brows? Tell Taylor at thefashiondungjen@gmail.com.

A Cincinnati scarf?

2009-11-11T20:51:00.001-08:00

I'm doing a little bit of Christmas shopping for my boyfriend. I love buying things for other people. It makes me feel like I have an excuse to then buy stuff for myself. Wrong or right, it's true.

He thinks I have a shopping problem. I happen to see things a little differently. But, that's another post for another time.

To the point:

I want to buy Richie a scarf. Why? I love scarves and I think that scarves add an instant and extra measure of attractiveness to an ensemble. Consequently, I want Richie to love scarves. He spends some time outside when he's at work, checking on whatever it is that he has to check on, and in the winter Northeast Ohio isn't really very forgiving. In fact, I'm surprised it hasn't started to snow yet ... Again, I'm getting away from the point. So, I'm looking for a scarf that Richie can wear when he's not at work (the Cleveland Brown's scarf that he has he can use for work). In the process of looking, I found a scarf called "Cincinnati."

It's maroon and navy. What about Cincinnati says maroon and navy? Can someone please clarify? (Don't worry; this is not something I'm considering for Richie. Actually, I find it quite atrocious.)

Insecurity in the Midwest

2009-11-11T20:37:00.000-08:00

I think the Midwest has an inferiority complex. Or is at least a little insecure about how it stacks up to is cousins out west. And, quite frankly, there's a lot to be jealous of. But, even though it seems like they would want to mimic the beautiful state of Oregon, this part of Dayton, dare I say, is marvelous. (The above sign was taken in Dayton, Ohio, in the Oregon District.) Hands down, the Oregon District is probably one of the most incredible neighborhoods in Dayton. It's old. Has a brick road (Bonus points). The houses are so fabulous. It's the ideal neighborhood for my future grown up self. I picture myself living in one of the circa 1850s homes and then taking a walk down one of the tree-lined streets in a forest green, just-above-the-knee dress and a pair of ankle cognac boots around this time of year.

Fall is so good. I need to recruit a friend to go on a fall photo adventure with me.

Bookbag! | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-11-05T09:34:00.000-08:00

Remember my column about book bags from a month-ish ago?

"From what I remember, backpacks seemed to last forever – as a kid, having the most awesome character from a TV show or movie made last week’s bag outdated before you could convince your parents that you needed it to maintain your playground status.
Now, I’m stuck. I have the mentality that backpacks are still for kids. On the other hand, I feel that same mentality tipping toward the whipping out my debit card to buy one each time the straps on my tote rip a little more. (I’m waiting for the day it busts on campus spilling all its contents as I watch a tampon roll down the sidewalk through McMicken Commons.)
It has to happen. For the sake of not chasing toiletries across campus, it has to happen."

Literally, the day after I wrote this column, one of the straps on the bag I had been carrying was reduced to hanging on by one single thread. And a mighty strong thread it was. But, alas, karma bit me in the behind and the bag became one with the dumpster behind my apartment building.

Two summers ago when I was in Alabama, I bought a huge-0-mungo bag for farmers markets and grocery shopping. Now that I never have time for farmers markets or grocery shopping, I converted the large tote into a makeshift school bag. Now, though the lining is ripping and the bottom looks like it might break out.

At the end of my column I posted a cry for help. I had no idea where to start looking for book bags, what types were better than others. I got more responses than I could have imagined. So, with the advice of some wonderful ladies -- go figure, no dudes had any suggestions -- I broke down and bought a book bag.

Pretty, isn't she?

The flunking funk | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-10-20T20:57:00.000-07:00

Usually when the temperature begins to drop I have a heightened sense of style. There is so much more than can be done -- layering, sweaters, scarves, boots. It's the best time of year to have to wear clothes. Really.

This fall, though, I'm struggling. I'm not sure what the deal is, but I need to find some new inspiration and fast. Something has to get me out of this funk, but what? Suggestions?

Curly hair | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-10-12T20:56:00.001-07:00

If everyone with straight hair is so damn jealous of curly hair, and everyone with curly hair is growing to like it more, why is it so impossible to find pictures of women with naturally curly hair? I need inspiration for styling and haircuts, but it doesn't seem to exist. Does anyone else share my frustrations?

If you have curly hair, please send me pictures to thefashiondungjen@gmail.com. I'm going to do a blowout with great curly hair -- make it a resource for all girls in the same predicament. A database of curly hair, if you will. Be a part of the project!

And, if you have friends with curly hair, spread the word!

Guest blogger: Heavy metal fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-10-05T20:05:00.000-07:00

When my friend Nick Grever asked me if he could write a few guest spots on my blog, I wanted to say yes. Maybe it was because I thought there was no way in hell Grever could write something fashion related. I mean, just click the first link in his guest post and you'll see how I feel about his style, or maybe it was because I thought it would be a good opportunity to introduce my readers to something different. Grever has a completely different perspective on fashion since he and I don't share the same ideals of style, but nonetheless, Grever is always the most interested in what I have to say about fashion. Do I get it? Nope. Does it matter? Nope. What resulted is a pretty good post about heavy metal going couture. Did I ever think those two words would be used together? Nope. Is it happening? You betcha.

Hello Fashion Dungjen readers (Dungjenites? Dungjeneers?), my name is Nick Grever. Yes, that Nick Grever.

I offered to write a guest post or two for Taylor and, for some crazy reason, she agreed. She probably wants a day off, but who am I to judge?

But, what exactly qualifies me to make any sort of comment on fashion in any way? I mean, did you read the column I linked? Well, I don’t really have any sort of high fashion knowledge. I don’t know the difference between Chanel and Dolce and Gabbana. I don’t get excited about fall fashions. The last time I looked at a Vogue was in line at Kroger.

But what I can do is observe. I can watch people; watch what they wear and when they wear it. And the job I’ve held for five years now has allowed me to do exactly that. I’ve been working at Hot Topic since I was 16 years old. I’ve seen the good, the bad, the ugly and the WTF moments of every day fashion. For the past three years, I’ve been at Newport on the Levee, a primarily nightlife location. This has added another wrinkle to my observations. And one major trend is the proliferation of heavy metal themes becoming couture. And while I may not be the most knowledgeable fashion guru, I know my metal (shameless plug incoming: www.heavy-metal-war.blogspot.com). And what I’m seeing is more and more heavy metal aesthetics being utilized for so called couture. Affliction and Ed Hardy are the main lines with these themes, along with the massive amount of offshoots and imitators.

Neither line is exactly “high” fashion, per se, but both are higher up on the line than most clothing in general.

And what exactly are these companies utilizing when they charge $50 or more for their products, namely their shirts? Well, let’s see: Skulls, Chains, Hot Chicks, Old school tattoo designs

Interesting … I’ve seen these aesthetics before ... Somewhere …

Hot chicks and skulls

Affliction and Ed Hardy are taking heavy metal imagery and turning them into high-value couture. And furthermore, these labels are being accepted and even flourishing within the general public. And that’s pretty big considering the shirts are expensive. Really expensive.

What’s even more shocking is the fact that these shirts are beginning to count as “dressing up.” Go into night clubs around the city and you’ll see girls in nice dresses and guys in T-shirts. It’s a weird sight to be sure.

But what caused these labels to get so popular, in spite of their price points and generally unaccepted aesthetics? Well, for affliction at least, UFC had a part in it. Many of the fighters attached themselves to Affliction, designing their own signature shirts and wearing them into the ring. With UFC getting more and more popular, it only makes sense that their respective clothes line would as well. And with some mainstream metal acts like Pantera and Ozzy picking up the Affliction banner, they gain even more credibility.

But perhaps the real reason is that Affliction and Ed Hardy skirt the line between rebellion and the mainstream. They have just enough of an edge to give the wearer that beloved feeling of power and strength, but not going over the edge and into scary (or at least what mainstream culture considers scary) territory.

But I wonder, how many people who so devotedly wear the Ed Hardy and Affliction label actually know the origins of the aesthetics they are sporting, or if they even care. Not that it matters per se, but as someone who has a closest full of bloody, skeleton-filled, evil, demonic, violent apparel, to see these same themes on guys who just got home from watching a Bengals game kind of weirds me out.

And, it appears that things may be coming full circle. Lead singer of Judas Priest and arguably the most metal person alive, Rob Halford, has created his own high end clothing line, called Metal God. And Slipknot, possibly the biggest metal band in the world had their own line as well, entitled Tattered and Torn. The line, exclusive to Hot Topic, seems to have been short lived, but is notable nonetheless.

Perhaps due to my background and love of all things metal, this change in the fashion landscape is a fascinating one to me. Will it last? Who knows, nothing changes faster than the public’s tastes. But for now, it seems like lines such as Affliction and Ed Hardy are here to stay. I guess we’ll just have to see if the bands and art that inspired said lines become mainstream too. I just hope I never have to pay $50 bucks for a Slayer shirt…

Best Tweet of the day | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-10-05T20:03:00.000-07:00

From @jillystrunk88: "why would lindsey lohan put out a fashion line? she cant even dress herself most days"

I could not agree more.

R.I.P. | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-09-11T06:49:00.000-07:00

While I was in Portland, my parents took the liberty to go through all of my clothes and shoes and throw away things they didn't see fit.

They threw away my favorite boots and I can't find my green sweatshirt with polar bears on it. Mom insisted she had no ideas what happened to the boots, but I knew she was full of bologna. Finally, she fessed up. Still no word on my sweatshirt.

R.I.P. You are missed.

MIA. Sigh.

There's no place like ... home? (And scarves) | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-09-07T20:23:00.000-07:00

That's actually not true. In fact, I'm not really sure what you can call home when you don't really live anywhere. You see, I lived in Wadsworth, Ohio (Northeast Ohio), for 18 years (one month and eight days), my parents' house is in Springboro, Ohio (Southwest), and I go to school in Cincinnati, come next Tuesday, I'll be in my fourth location. So, what's home? I certainly don't know, but, for now, I'll consider these photos of my time in Akron last week pictures of home.

Gina and I went on several photo adventures when I was home. The first batch are from a big ol' park in Medina, Ohio, although I forget what it's called. I'll hope Gina sees this and fills in the blank. We traipsed and, when Gina lost her green phone in meadow, I used my regrettably fantastic vision to find it. (I want glasses so badly.)

My favorite vest. It's suede. I bought if for $1 when I visited my parents in Springboro for the first time after they moved. It needs to be dry cleaned.

My favorite scarf. Thrifted in Dayton, Ohio. I hate that 'thrifted' always shows up as a misspelled word.

Loved Gina's earrings.
I also love her ring which looks a lot like a Pringle. On the grass/thing is an egg sac. Gina tried to break it open but it didn't work. Good thing. I think it was spiders.

Again, Gina has some wonderful earrings. And I love the blue of the scarf. So good. This photo, and the photo below, are from our adventure to Clay Mountain in Medina. I don't actually think there was a mountain, but we had to walk down railroad tracks and through the woods to find a river valley. It became dark about 5 minutes after we started which made the entire adventure really interesting.

Oma gave me this black floral scarf; her sister, Monika, gave it to her when she last visited Germany. Visiting Oma definitely has many perks. Regifting scarves is one of them.

80s hair | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-07-11T23:57:00.001-07:00

So today (Saturday) is Molly's birthday. She's finally the big 2-1 and, to celebrate, the interns, my roommates and a few others got together for an '80s themed birthday bash. Since my clothing pool is pretty limited by what I could get on the plane and I wasn't planning for any '80s outings while packing, I had to deal with what little I had.

Instead of really dressing the part (minus the neon, obnoxiously yellow tank) I had some super, really fake and unnatural-looking lipstick, jewelry and big, big hair.

Really, my hair was BIG.

This picture doesn't do the hugeness any justice.

Peculiar Portland fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-07-11T23:35:00.001-07:00

My family is in this week visiting from Ohio. My aunt and uncle came in Friday afternoon so I've been spending some good old quality time with them. Today my aunt called, said, "We bought you a donut and we're coming to pick you up." Score. We first went to Saturday Market. Then the Mississippi Street Fair, Hood River and Mosier for some cherry picking.

The Mississippi Street Fair was definitely better than I had anticipated. There were a few questionable fashion statements I'd like to share...

Drop-crotch pants are never a good idea and they're even less of a good idea when they're a onesie.
I think this woman is supposed to be a mermaid. I'm not quite sure though. Maybe she's on her way to prom...?

He wins best dressed.

Peculiar Portland fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-07-03T23:08:00.000-07:00

One thing I've noticed about Portlanders is their unique sense of style. It's definitely not really what I anticipated. With my limited West Coast experience, I guess I was thinking it would something more in line with San Francisco. There are similarities, for sure. The general stereotypes that every city has are here, but I feel like most of the fashion statements I see are kind of questionable.

A lot of it, too, is completely based on functionality. That's one of the things I noticed right away. A lot of people here ride bikes everywhere or spend a lot of time walking wherever they need to go which doesn't always lend itself to the most fashionable attire. But, in circumstances like that, it makes sense to be more practical. (Who wants to wear pumps if you have to walk from SW Broadway and 6th to 2nd and Burnside? Not me.

Anyway, on my way to Chase bank today to exchange my big bills ($5 and $10) for singles (for the bus), I found myself walking behind a girl pulling a suitcase. Now, this is definitely one of those cases where you could make the lame joke "What's red, white and black all over?" and she would totally qualify as an answer.

Behold, my friends:

OK, so I guess she's not wearing any white. I wrote that before I posted the picture. BUT STILL, you get the point: red T-shirt, red and black plaid very mini skirt, red tights with destroyed black fishnets over top and big, clunky, heavy black shoes. Really not favorable.

AND THEN, yesterday, oh my gosh, I saw this girl in a tutu leaping, jumping, spinning, twirling, whatevering down the street.

I actually think she may be a legitimate ballerina and was promoting an upcoming show, but, based on some of the other things I've seen in Portland, I've come to realize anything is possible, AND, the stranger it is, the more likely it is to actually be happening.

Michael Jackson fashion tributes | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-06-27T16:24:00.000-07:00

My parents introduced me to Michael Jackson a really, really long time ago. I've always been a fan. When I was little, maybe 5 years old, I used to push the furniture in our TV room out of the center of the room and dance. Mom would bring the neighbors in and I'd put on a show.

Thriller, though, always used to scare me. I remember one time hiding under a desk in my living room.

Since his death on Thursday, there's been a ton of media coverage. So much, in fact, that I had to turn off CNN because I couldn't stand to hear anyone tell me the same thing one more time: there are moving vans, his in-house doctor has lawyerd up, his family was going to pay for a second, independent autopsy.

But, that said, I still want to commemorate his life as the greatest musician of all time by wearing his name, silhouette or whatever on clothing.

Sydne Summer posted a link on Twitter to her Web site that linked to custom T-shirts that are commemorating the artists life.

I love the silhouette T-shirt, but I'm holding out on purchasing anything -- there will likely be better things in the near future.

Have you seen any other fashion dedications to Michael? What's your favorite? Are you going to/thinking about buy anything?

Portland | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-06-27T16:20:00.000-07:00

Week one at The Oregonian was good. Week two looks like it will be better.

Portland: Day 3 | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-06-20T21:08:00.001-07:00

I love Portland more and more every day. Yesterday I didn't go out much, just exploring the neighborhood around the house. Today, after one of my new roommates, Missy, told me about the Saturday Market, I knew I had to go back downtown for more exploring. So, that is exactly what I did. I planned to spend about six hours there, but my exploration was cut short because my shoes ripped my left heel to hell and gave me blisters on both feet. They're such cute shoes, and I will wear them again, but until I'm healed.

Yup. Pretty gross. Tomorrow, tomorrow I will wear tennis shoes.

To see the rest of my pictures from the last couple of exploration days, check out my Flickr site.

Portland: Day 1 | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-06-18T22:14:00.001-07:00

I'm finally in Portland. I feel like I've been in countdown mode for the last six months (when it's really only been about two and a half months). I worked up the nerve to try and conquer the Portland public transportation system today and go downtown by myself. After one screw up (aka getting on the wrong bus and going the opposite direction) I managed to get downtown and back to the apartment without any problems. I'll basically be a pro by the end of the week. (Or at least will go the right direction.)

Instead of just day one stuff, I have en route photos to share, all taken with my phone. (I was kicking myself all day for not having my camera with me when I went downtown.)

Flight:

Mom took me shopping for grown up girl clothes. I managed to get a pair of fun tennis shoes out of her too. I think I should go away more often.

On my first flight, from Dayton to Houston, I was on a puddle jumper (or piddle jumper, if you're my mom and trying to make a joke) and sitting next to the bathroom. I was worried someone was going to take a massive dump and I'd have to breathe through a hand towel or something. Luckily, there were no stinky poops. Since I was in the last row, I was sitting right next to one of the engines - it was incredibly loud and I couldn't even listen to my iPod because I couldn't hear a single thing.

This plot of farm land in Houston reminded me of a dinosaur. Awesome!

PORTLAND

I've never actually seen the photo enforced traffic lights so I was pretty shocked to see they actually exist.

I was walking around and saw this cute little park so I sat down and did some people watching for a little while. It's kind of split by a road with the nice reindeer statue/fountain.

I'm going back downtown tomorrow for more public transportation/exploring and actually bringing my camera. Now, though, it's 10:36 p.m. in Portland, which means, to my body, it's 1:36 a.m. and way past my bedtime.

Packing for Portland | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-06-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

I've been shopping with mom for the last two days buying "big girl clothes" that are work appropriate. My flight to Portland leaves Wednesday at 6 p.m. and, like the true procrastinator of unfun tasks that I am, I've decided to put everything off until the almost last minute (today).

I have to pack smart, something I'm not very good at. This might mean, although it pains me, that my cowboy boots might have to stay behind.

And, p.s., I'm pretty irritated that I have to pay $20 per suitcase.

To further procrastinate, I'm going to Target with my sister to look at a few more things and to pick up a laptop bag.

DAAP honors distinguished alumnus | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-06-12T18:07:00.000-07:00

Fashion shows are very serious business with very serious (better, even, serious-looking) people. If you have ever seen one on TV, been in the last row or front row, on the stage or behind the stage, you can see everyone takes themselves very, very seriously.

From the crazed man behind the scenes frantically trying to dress and redress models to the most influential fashion spectator in the front row sitting calmly, waiting to be waited on, it’s a house of mayhem and chaos to showcase some of the most intricate, beautiful and calm garments created by top-notch designers.

Dressed in their best and most fashion-forward garb, students, faculty, staff and members of the general public waited in anticipation for one of the University of Cincinnati’s most glamorous events of the year.

The university’s 58th annual fashion show wowed audience members Friday, June 12 –which was also the final event of DAAP Works, a final culmination of capstone projects by graduating seniors from the College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning.

This year, DAAP not only used the show to bid farewell to its parting seniors, but also to recognize one of the fashion design program’s renowned alumnus, David Meister.

“I think it is very cool and I am honored [to be recognized by DAAP],” Meister said. “I had great relationships with all of my professors. My class was only about 35 students; in many ways we became our own little family.”

Living in Cincinnati during his entire pre-college life, Meister, a 1985 DAAP graduate, knew of UC’s fashion program and its acclaim. The only other school Meister entertained was the Parsons The New School for Design in New York.

“It would have been very expensive and, truthfully, I don’t know that, at 18, I was ready to move to New York,” Meister said. “After graduation, I immediately packed my bags and moved there … New York is really the only city where you can start a career in fashion.”
Although his familial roots are in Cincinnati and New York is the home to the beginning of his career, Meister now lives in Beverly Hills, Calif., with his partner, Alan Siegel and their invisible dog, Petey.

“There are very few cities that I could actually live in – possibly only Los Angeles and New York,” he said. “Cincinnati is too slow for me.”

Cincinnati isn’t the fashion capital of the world – not even close. Looking anywhere for something cutting-edge is like looking for a pair of non-designer pumps in Carrie Bradshaw’s closet. The slower-paced city with its limited exposure to high-end or designer fashion didn’t stop Meister, who has had an interest in fashion since he was 3 or 4 years old.

“I was very opinionated about what I wore and also about what others wore. I had very specific outfits, even in kindergarten – my purple bell bottoms, white belt and red and white floral shirt – very groovy – or so I thought at the time,” Meister said. “Then I saw Cher on TV and I was sold.”

Once Meister moved to New York, things started to take off. Approximately 11 years ago, he launched his own company/clothing label, David Meister, which he also touts as the highlight of his career.

His line, which features women’s wear, is modern, sexy and timeless. His dresses and gowns are in bold hues and sassy prints with sophisticated shapes – indicative of a fun-loving, but serious personality.

“Women want ease and simplicity, but still want to look pretty and glamorous,” Meister said. “The first thing you should notice about a woman should not be her dress – it should be her.”

Meister also hopes to expand his line to include, well, any and everything. (This happens to include bridal, swimwear, furs, coats, jewelry, bags and shoes.)

Despite Cincinnati’s slower pace, Meister encourages students on a budget to let fashion into their lives.

“Have a look of your own,” he said. “Buy simple, basic pieces that can’t be identified as inexpensive or designer – black or white T-shirts, simple black pants or pencil skirt. Always spend on shoes and bags – your accessories will always be noticed. Even as a student out of school I had a pair or two of designer shoes … That’s what credit cards are for. This is the fashion business and you need to look together, polished and current.”

Meister has dressed some of Hollywood’s most fabulous women – Diane Lane, Jennifer Hudson, Sharon Stone, Felicity Huffman (who wore a fuchsia, draped jersey gown – Meister’s favorite dress to date) and Tina Fey. His clothes are also sold at high-end department stores such as Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales and Saks Fifth Avenue.

Help me find: laptop bag | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-06-08T16:14:00.000-07:00

My laptop bag has seen better days. My mom bought it for me when I got my new laptop - it's a vinyl Betsey Johnson bag. The straps are ripping and the lining has gone to hell. I need a new bag before I go to Portland - which, by the way, is in eight days. I need big. Really, really big.

Any suggestions on where I can get something that's big, classic-looking and not ridiculously expensive?

Birthday, boyfriend, messes and dogs | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-06-03T21:35:00.001-07:00

Wow. Have I been slacking or what?

Let me bring you up to speed. I am now 21 years old. HURRAH. My birthday was this last Tuesday, June 2.

I spent the day at work and then went to Mac's, a Cincinnati bar, for my first "real" bar scene experience. I put "real" in quotations because I don't drink. Never have, don't have any desire to start. My lovely friend, Ali bought me a Shirley Temple and another good friend of mine, Amanda bought me a slice of pizza. It was great. You can read all about it in this weeks column.

That's the cookie cake Len, the director of student media/News Record adviser bought for me. The stud holding the cake? That's Ali, the one who bought me my Shirley Temple. (In the background is Garrett, sports editor and Crocs wearer. Gross.)

Last weekend I went home to visit Richie, the boyfriend.

We went to the Indians game. Boy bought some good tickets - too bad there was an hour and a half rain delay and we were attacked by bugs. Isn't that how the plague started..?

We didn't do a lot else the entire weekend, which was so good. So, so good. We played with Layla, his dad's new puppy. Layla is the cutest thing you've ever seen. (Although it was kind of sad since my parents just put Oreo, my dog since fifth grade, to sleep.)

My room is currently a huge mess. Obviously. Maybe I'll clean it before Richie shows up on Saturday afternoon. Maybe.

I've been working a lot. Being the boss lady is great, just lots of stuff to do all the time. But, that's OK. Bring it on.

PHOTO BY COULTER LOEB

Here I am with Kareem, TNR managing editor, and that's Len, the birthday-cake buying media adviser, in the background. This is from a recent photo session I was in. Coool!

Trends that should: die, die, die | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-25T12:56:00.000-07:00

A very scientific study (a Facebook status update and a question to an open Internet forum) solicited replies from any and everyone on what trends should die, which need to make a comeback and what will be the next big thing in fashion.

Because I was bombarded with responses, I'm turning this into a four-part blog series. The first one is all about what trends should die, according to Internet responses. (Actually, part two is also what trends should die. I had way more responses on hopeful trend goodbyes that it's a little overwhelming.)

Some of these things I expected. Some I didn't.

Here's what others had to say and what I say to them.

Til' death do we part (and we hope you die soon) PT. 1
The trends people are ready to kill off

Leggings as pants: Six respondent said they're ready to see leggings as pants die.

"i am sick & tired of seeing girls with SHEER "leggings" who think they can wear them as pants with medium length tops barely covering their baby makers. i don't care how skinny you are, LEGGINGS ARE NOT PANTS ESPECIALLY WHEN THEY'RE SHEER. STOP IT."
-Lauren Smallwood, a second-year University of Cincinnati art history student, via Facebook

I say: Amen, brothers and sisters. It's probably the number one most echoed sentiment on this blog. I don't really know when this took off - again - it was probably when I was a senior in high school, maybe during my first year at the University of Cincinnati. Either way, that was several years ago (2005-06 ish). Since then the head of leggings as pants has disgusted many, many people. It's been written about, Facebook hate clans have formed. it's time to call it quits, people. It's done. Over. Please.

Wet leggings: One respondent said wet leggings are done.

I say: This isn't too terribly different from the entire idea of leggings as pants. The wet legging look is done. Over. Not cool. I think Rhianna tried to rock this for awhile, which is probably part of the unfortunate reason it took off. I saw it for a while, probably last spring-ish, but I don't know that it's something I think is still a 'trend.' I think there are probably a few stragglers still trying to make it work, but, as a whole, I'm pretty sure it's over.

Coach: Three respondents said Coach anything - shoes, purses, wristlets - need to be on the way out.

"i also never want to see another coach purse/shoe in my entire life. coach products are like the middle class's way of saying 'see? i can afford expensive labels.' seriously, big price tags don't mean you have style."
-Lauren Smallwood, via Facebook

I say: See ya, Coach. Never been a fan. Never will be a fan. Actually, that might be too extreme. I saw one coach bag that I liked in San Francisco last summer. Of course it was in a window across the street, but it was a large eggplant hobo bag with no apparent trace of a logo.

Leg warmers: One respondent mentioned leg warmers.

I say: I've seen a lot of leg warmers this year. Most frighteningly, I've seen them when the weather has been kind of warm and with mini skirts. They're awful. Awful, awful, awful. They should have gone out with Jane Fonda. I used to own a couple pairs of leg warmers, actually. One pair, I believe, was from a Halloween costume I recycled from 80s day in high school and the other pair I wore under my jeans in the winter my first year at school. Walking across campus, which is essentially a very large wind tunnel, can be quite trying when it's cold. I need all the heat-generating motivation to keep me going to class. Leg warmers, when they're not visible, or worn with a mini skirt, can be totally practical and warranted.

Big earrings: This was argued on my Facebook status. What's too big? What shape is OK? What style is acceptable. It was quite a lot of back-and-forth, but, here's what we (they) established:

"Big ass earrings will always be fabulous. They're a vintage trend and vintage will always be fabulous. 60s style icon edie sedgwick's look was HUGE earrings, and she is timeless in my mind."
-Kelsey Wing, second-year University of Cincinnati journalism student

"OK, yes, some big earrings are good but I'm talking about the big round-the-way-girl hoop earrings, the kind you could put your freakin' head through. Sheesh. What's the point of those? They're an accident waiting to happen."
-Aiesha Little, associate editor of Cincinnati Magazine

I say: I agree with Kelsey and Aiesha. I love Edie Sedgwick. Her style - big earrings and all - were fantastic. They worked for her. If I had earrings that looked like hers, I'd wear them and love them too. However, it does matter what kind of big earrings you might be talking about to make the argument that large earrings are OK to wears.

The large hoop earrings -as pictured above -are too much. One wrong turn and that bad boy is hooked on something and ripped right out of your ear lobe. Not a pretty sight, I'm sure.

Crocs: Four respondents said Crocs need to die.

I say: Crocs are quite heinous. I would love for their time to finally come to an end instead of watching the company come out with a new style every so often to supplement sliding sales. Everything - the original design, the mary janes, the flats, the boots, the heels, the what-the-heck-is-on-your feet style - they all have to go. Every single pair, every single style, every single color.

Vera Bradley: Three respondents said they'd like to see Vera Bradley go by the wayside.

I say: I've never really understood the idea behind the Very Bradley craze. I've known women in entire families where they actually collect the ugly patchwork bags. No one in my family would be caught dead with one. Maybe bad/good taste is hereditary.

UGGs: Five respondents said UGGs have to go.

I say: The day UGGs go out of business or are officially declared out, unconstitutional, whatever, anything that prohibits their wear, will be the day I rejoice to the fullest. I don't understand their appeal. People say they're comfortable. OK, well, so are my leather boots and they're not ugly. People say they're warm. OK, yeah, well, so are my leather boots and, again, my boots aren't ugly. UGGs were made for one type of person and one type of person only: Appalachian sheep herders. Period. End of story. For the galavanters in urban jungles, your feet have no place inside the sausage casing-like boots. They make your legs look stumpy cat scratching posts. Oh my gosh, and please, just continue to wear them all summer. What a great idea. The dichotomy of wearing boots with a mini skirt is really brilliant, you little scholar, you.

Skinny jeans: Two respondents said skinny jeans need to fall out.

I say: OK, I'm not sure I really understand. At this point, I don't even consider skinny jeans a trend; they're a different cut of denim. I guess the same can be said for any of the aforementioned trends- UGGs are a type of boot, Crocs are a type of shoe, whatever - but skinny jeans are here to stay and I'm OK with that. I like them. I wear them. I think they look good on a fairly sizable portion of the population and they're complimentary to a large portion of the population. I disagree with the idea that skinny jeans need to be on the way out. I think they're here to stay. (The only problem - and this can be said for any kind of jean - is you want to avoide what the model on the right has in the picture of the jeans. Some extra fabric fold/bulge thing. Not cute.

Converse: Two respondents said Converse need to die.

I say: What? Seriously? Converse have been around since, what, 1918? I'm also pretty sure I've seen numbers that indicate more than 60 percent of Americans own, or at one point owned, a pair of the shoes. These are not going anywhere. Converse is not a trend, they're a staple. True, they were a lot cooler before Nike bought the brand in 2003. Even since then I haven't noticed less of them, I've seen more. I would even go so far to say that Converse are probably the most Americana iconic shoes that exist as a part of American popular culture. I wish I could even count the number of pairs I own - lets see, there were the navy low tops, the black high tops, green high tops, comic book high tops, white low tops. (OK, that might be it, actually.) Still, to have more than one person suggest that converse is a fashion trend that needs to die is a little shocking. How can you dislike Converse? Can someone explain this?

Brand name clothing: I grouped this because I had one respondent say American Eagle and Abercrombie and Fitch and another say brand names.

I say: Again, brand name clothing: not a trend, a fact of life. I agree, however, that stores - like the aforementioned, should play less of a role as you graduate from middle school to high school and high school to college. I'm a little biased toward American Eagle - I worked there through my first and second year of school, but I understand the frustaration with people who are clad from head to toe in anything that has an eagle, seagull or moose applique. But, that said, brand name clothing isn't going to go anywhere. Ever. Unless you're making all of your clothes yourself, everything is part of a brand, no matter how big or how small the company. You can shop at a thrift store all you want, but those clothes you just paid a dollar for were, at one point, part of a larger line (if the company no longer exists). Sorry, but the indie elitisim doesn't work here.

The 80s: One respondent said what happened in the 80s should stay in the 80s.

I say: So long shoulder pads and glam-rock hair. I bid thee aidu, suit jackets with sequin and bed appliques. Farewell, goodbye, see ya, toodles, don't let the door hit you on the way out. I'm exaggerating a little bit. Not all of the 80s was a bad thing. If you take bits and pieces of the extravagance - the big jewelry, hot pink lipstick, electric blue eyeshadow, Madonna-inspired lace gloves - and work it into something more modern the 80s isn't quite so aesthtically harmful. But, really, the legwarmers, the shoulder pads..? Leave those where you found them.

Nothing to do with fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-23T14:31:00.001-07:00

Today I went gypsy hunting.

Prompted by Twitter updates from one of our professors my good friend Ryan and I knew we had to go back. (We tried to find the gypsies last year too.)

He called, said, "We're going back to find gypsies. I'll be there in five minutes."

I grabbed my camera, my wallet and was out the door.

This doesn't really have anything to do with fashion, but you have to understand, these gypsies, people, whatever, have to be spending thousands of dollars on these floral arrangements that they leave at Spring Grove Cemetery. And, seriously, gypsies are all over this pop culture stuff (They had arrangements in the shapes of Dora the Explorer, Spongebob Squarepants, Nemo.).

So, for some back story..

My understanding is, that, back in the '40s the gypsies were traveling through Cincinnati when one of the gypsy kings died. The owner of Spring Grove cemetery allowed him to be buried for free so, now, every year the gypsies make the trek back to Cincinnati - mostly from New Jersey (although we did spot a few Georgia and Florida plates) to pay homage to their dead.

Last year, when Ryan, his boyfriend John and I went on the prowl we did a little investigating, stopping some of the cemetery grounds employees where to find the burial sites and such. The furthest back death date was around 1946, I think. Thought it was pretty interesting.

Today we spoke to one woman who was there - part of the gypsy clan - paying homage to the dead. She said she was originally from the Cincinnati area but had since moved to New Jersey. She used to come to Spring Grove all the time, but this year was the first time she'd been back in the last four years. She also said that all the flowers came from Swan Florist in Kentucky.

This is the stone that was near all the pop culture Disney-related arrangements.
I'm guessing it was because the boy was so young when he died..?
(Although I'm not sure when 'Grandson' is...?)

These flowers were all for the same family.

Most sites had dozens of individual arrangements.

One thing about all the arrangements: They all had beautiful, bright colors.

Here are some of those pop culture references. I think these are baby Shreks?

This arrangement says "See you all in paradise."

This is a ballerina. (Obv. ) I'm wondering if this one was another
pop culture reference. The ribbon on this one said "with Jesus."
Maybe, "Dances with Jesus" instead of "Dances with Wolves?" :]

Dora the Explorer. Seriously. Crazy awesome. This ribbon said 'BFF.' I took a picture of the monkey Deago, or whatever its name is.

Here's the fashion. A floral arrangement of pink lipstick.
She must have been my kind of lady.

Nemo and I'm guessing one of the cars from the Disney movie "Cars."

Spongebob Squarepants.

Two of the visiting women looking at the arrangements.

I think Ry was taking a picture of something..?

Regular fashion-related posts to resume in the next day or so.

Cocktail party outfit search update | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-21T20:20:00.001-07:00

OK, so, you know how in that last post I said I went looking for the perfect cocktail party outfit? Well, that's true. And it's also true that I didn't find anything ... At the mall.

After the stressful power laps around both floors of the mall and wanting to punch myself every time I turned over a price tag, Aldawna and I got the heck out of dodge and went to DSW in search of studded ankle boots.

After no help from you weasels, I had to fend for myself. Thanks a lot. Jerks. (Just kidding. Sort of.)

I found a pair I really love at Steve Madden, but the $130 price tag was too much. Way, way too much. Sigh.

I didn't find the boots - or any studded boots for that matter - at DSW, but I did find a pair of studded gladiator-like heels. I think they're pretty good.

At this point, my feet will be the only thing that's not naked. If I could only find a dress...

Mall rats | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-21T20:02:00.000-07:00

Aldawna and I went to the mall today in search of the perfect cocktail party outfit. My party - or the one I'm attending, anyway - is May 30, which just happens to be several days before my 21st birthday. I'm lacking an outfit and had some unoccupied time this afternoon so I recruited my dear and honest friend to go shopping with me.

Countless circles through Kenwood Towne Centre didn't get us anywhere. In fact, this was my second trip to the mall to try to find somethin to wear. Each time a huge disappointment.

This time, at least, I found some really great looking merchandise and a really flattering display. I'd love to share what I found..

I guess the designer of this shoe really took to heart Michael Jackson's "Black or White." If you're trying to match it don't matter if you're black or white.

After seeing this display - which demonstrates how these pants can shape your butt - I realized I need to buy a pair in every color.

Several ways to describe what is happening here:
1) My rear end looks like my butt crack skipped dinner and it's eating my pants.
2) Camel toe from behind.
3) Chronic elongated butt wedgie.

Any other butt jokes to add to the list?

Questionable campus fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-21T11:08:00.000-07:00

Did someone spill bleach in her laundry? Maybe she was dunked in a tank. I don't know, but either way ... Terrifying.

I understand the look for spring is light denim, but I don't think this is quite what they were suggesting.

As always, keep your eyes peeled and your camera phones ready. Send all questionable campus fashion to thefashiondungjen@gmail.com.

Can money buy happiness? | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

Photo from http://www.leeharbour.com.au/retail.html

Retail therapy is a dirty, dirty thing. Been there, done that. Not feelin' it. It's expensive, impulsive.

My last encounter with retail therapy cost me, oh, you know, approximately $400. Lucky for most people it seems I'm one of the most ridiculous college spenders, or at least according to a few friends.

"I usually don't spend a lot ... 50 bucks maybe," said Raven Nelson via Facebook.

"[I] usually [spend] under $10," said Alyssa Ryan via Facebook.

OK, awesome. So apparently I'm the only one - of those who fessed up - who completely overdoes it. The closest I came to finding anyone who is as extravagant (i.e. unreasonable) as I have been in my spending was Amanda Mecozzi spending $75.

So, what merits retail therapy?

"Retail therapy is merited at any time," said JschoolJunkette via Twitter. "This includes when your retail therapy makes you feel like a shopping addict."

Shopping addict. OK, I'll subscribe to that. but I'm not sure if it takes retail therapy to make me feel like a shopping addict.

When I walked away from my spending spree, I surveyed what I purchased. (My binge was in, like, February, so I don't really remember what I bought, but one thing was a $150 Marc Jacobs purse that I never use.) Nothing of much use, nothing I couldn't have lived without.

What do you buy when using retail therapy to cope?

"Depending on how stressed/sad I am, I will potentially buy waaay more stuff than I can us within 6 months. I've spent over $75 dollars at a time and walked out of Target with crap loads of lip gloss, cleansers, lotion...the list goes on. But it genuinely makes me happy so, whatever. Better than drinking myself into liver disease!!"

-Amanda Mecozzi

"Retail therapy is great, but if I don't feel like going out and I still want to shop, I hit up eBay - which can be dangerous, as I am addicted to expensive camera stuff."

-Alyssa Ryan

"I buy clothes that make me look good and that makes me feel better."

- Raven Nelson

"[Retail therapy] usually consists of $100 budget at some cheap stores ( like XXI ) and a martini afterwards...yup. that does the trick."

-Tifanei Moyer via Twitter

UC student starts T-shirt line | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-20T17:38:00.001-07:00

A simple misspelling turned an idea into reality for one University of Cincinnati student.

Drew Oxley, a third-year communications student, first had an interest in designing T-shirts and creating his own clothing line while a junior in high school. Since then, the line has undergone several identity crises – beginning as ‘Seriously,’ and morphing into Partative.

Partitive, which means to break apart, was Oxley’s vision for his business. The bands who wore his T-shirts would be united by the brand, but would be broken apart throughout the country.

When Oxley commissioned his friend, Rachel Mason, a third-year graphic design student, to help design shirts, he gave her ‘Parative.’

And, with that, Parative was born.

Since its inception, Parative has released three collections – the most recent being Spring 2009.

“Right now I’m pretty much even or just a little bit under,” Oxley said of his financial prospects. “I’ve had three releases and the first [release] I didn’t keep track money wise but I broke even on the second one. I’m a month into the third release so I’m just under on that one, obviously, but it’s fairly new.”

The T-shirts in Oxley’s collection all feature the ‘Parative’ tag which is usually incorporated into the design. In the newest collection, Parative is stretched the entire length of the bright-colored T-shirts in a gold metallic font.

The line includes a design which features a zebra and one that reads “smoking is killer cool.”

Oxley’s favorite design, however, is from an earlier collection.

“My favorite is the ice cream [design],” Oxley said. “At first I wanted to do it with chocolate syrup coming down saying ‘pretty please.’ ”

The T-shirt ended up looking like a giant ice cream sundae with chocolate syrup dripping down the mounds of ice cream spelling out Parative. And, of course, there’s a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry to top it off.

“The ice cream design makes me hungry,” Mason said. “I don’t know, I’m just thinking about food all the time.”

Mason and Oxley met their first year at UC. Since then, Mason has designed most of the shirts in Oxley’s online store.

“Drew comes to me with his rough sketches and descriptive visions of what he wants a shirt to look like,” Mason said. “I make one sketch or numerous sketches and he helps make refinements to have the aesthetic that he wants.”

It isn’t just building a business that’s a learning process for Oxley, Mason makes it a point to show Oxley the process of working with software to create the designs.

The designs are sugary sweet, but they’re not even the best part about Parative.

Oxley is working with The Blind Project, a non-profit organization that works with children in South East Asia.

“[The Blind Project] doesn’t have the support or recognition that Invisible Children has,” Oxley said. “I want to make The Blind Project bigger, I feel like this nasty stuff that’s going on in Thailand needs a lot more attention to it. Hopefully I can help bring a little attention to their organization.”

Oxley donates a portion of his proceeds to The Blind Project.

So far, Parative has worked with 12 bands, but has five on the roster right now. Of those, most of them are Columbus-based bands, where Oxley is from.

Most of the T-shirts are $15 and can be purchased online at parative.bigcartel.com or on MySpace, www.myspace.com/parativeclothing.

For more information on The Blind Project, visit www.theblindproject.com.

Vote for Claire! | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

My friend Claire, whom I work with at The News Record (when she's not spending six months on co-op in France) is one of 20 finalists in a Brides.com dress design competition. Her dress, which, by the way, is stunning, is an asymmetrical, deep V-neck dress with flutter sleeves. It was all done by hand - an understated daunting task, I'm sure.

She worked really hard and deserves all the votes she can get which is why I'm soliciting votes for her. Check out the dress and vote [for Claire] here: Bridal dress competition.

Journalism awards luncheon | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-15T14:10:00.000-07:00

Last night I spent about, oh, you know, an hour deciding what I was going to wear to today's journalism luncheon. This morning, doing the incredibly intelligent thing, I painted my nails red and then put on the black dress I'd settled on.

Yeah, well, that was smart.

I ended up getting some nail polish on my dress and had to nix that idea.

Instead, I opted for a high waisted black pencil skirt with a white lace-detailed top and black round-toe pumps.

I received two scholarship awards today, the Scripps Howard Foundation's internship scholarship grant and the Mary Linn White scholarship. (Whoohoo!)

It was very excellent, very exciting. Congrats to all my fellow News Record editors who took home an award (or three, if your name is Kristy Conlin).

Laura Dawson at DAAP | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-15T12:58:00.000-07:00

Designer Laura Dawson, a 2002 graduate of the University of Cincinnati's fashion design program, is featured on Bravo's new show, The Fashion Show.

Dawson, a Cincinnati native, back in town to visit family, was at the College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning, Thursday, May 14, to present a guest lecture and host a sample sale of her newest collection.

Her clothes - made from organic fabrics - are contemporary with some signals of vintage inspirations. From the subdued neutral dresses to bold red mini skirts, there is something for everyone.

Dawson will also be at DAAP 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Friday, May 15, for the second and final leg of her on-campus sample sale.

Dawson recently moved from New York to London with her fiance. I'll post more from my sit-down interview with Laura later this week.

Heel, toe, heel, toe | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-13T17:52:00.000-07:00

What started as a simple question, thought and suggestion turned into a fiery and spirited debate.

Using attack-dog tactics and Web-based, guerilla-like warfare, men and women from all over the country gave their two cents – some even left a nickel – on whether or not women should wear heels on campus.

“Why shouldn’t girls wear heels to campus?” retaliated Rachel Blum (alias: Groby), a Los Angeles dweller, via Twitter.

Well, obviously, as someone who has worn heels around campus, I’m not saying women shouldn’t. I’m asking if you think they should. I’m wondering, should the girls who stumble, slide and stomp around because they haven’t yet mastered the heel, toe, heel, toe movement, be parading around campus like they’re on a Prada catwalk?

My answer to that: no.

“I wear heels to class almost every day, but I know how to walk, run, jump and any other random action in them,” said Kelsey Wing, a second-year journalism student, via Facebook. “And to girls who cannot walk in heels, learn how to instead of giving us a bad rap.”

I agree with Wing. It isn’t the girls who know how to function in heels that are the problem. It’s the ones who are falling over while trying that make the entire pump-parading population look ridiculous. And let’s face it: The cobblestone sidewalk that makes up a big portion of the university’s walking space isn’t really conducive to training. That’s better suited for practice time at home where you can look like a buffoon in privacy.

I understand the point of wanting to wear heels to class. I’ve done it on occasion either because I need to be dressed up for something or I just want to. There’s something about wearing heels that’s very powerful and exudes confidence.

“Some of us like to care about the way we present ourselves. I personally would rather fall on my face in my five inch Loubies than wear a pair of hideous sneakers,” Wing said.

And others agreed.

“I agree with Kelsey [Wing] in the fact that we care how we present ourselves,” said Ashley Cranston, a third-year student at the University of Akron via Facebook. “It’s not about trying to impress anyone; it’s about feeling good about yourself … I probably have some heels that are more comfortable than [some] sneakers. It’s all about finding your favorite brand and pair. If you start wearing them, I think you would realize that they’re not that bad.”

I’m wondering where Cranston buys heels that are more comfortable than sneakers; perhaps something I’ll take up with her in the future, but regardless, not everyone is buying in.

“One word: Why?” asked Melinda Hershey, a third-year health promotions student, via Facebook. “I guess this is coming from the girl who wears gym shoes every day of her life though, so I may be biased. But seriously, nobody gives a [crap] about your shoes and you look stupid. And you are in pain. Suck it up and care a little bit less, puhleeease [sic].”

And so people trash heels. People trash sneakers. How can we appease the feet of every fashion-forward or jaunting female on campus?

It might be impossible, but at least there are alternatives.

“So, the only options are five-inch heels or hideous sneakers?” asked Alyssa Ryan, a UC alumna and graduate student at Texas Tech via Facebook. “I wear flats. Ballet slippers, cute little slip-ons, whatever you want to call them - they’re flats. Why? Because if I wore five-inch heels, I would tower over the vast majority of my friends and coworkers. Not to mention the fact that I never have to worry about breaking a heel.”

One of the easiest ways to avoid looking like a drunk on campus – because you can’t stabilize yourself in pumps – is to pack the heels in your bag and wear a complementary pair of flats around until you need the heels for a meeting or presentation.

If you’re like Wing and have it mastered, more power to you. Perhaps we should unite all the successful pump-wearing people to teach a class on the prowess of pumps.

What others had to say:
(on Facebook)

"In all honestly... I laugh at them when they fall.. mean I know but hey, it gives me kicks and giggles." - Joan Milich, Grace College student

"Probably too high maintenance for me. Granted, more thoughts tend to follow ... But that's my immediate reaction, lol." - Zachary James Gauspohl, second-year University of Louisville student

"On my end, I'm much more worried about your personal well-being than how fabulous you look when you trip or fall. Ashley, I agree with you, but again, banging up your face and breaking a bone won't feel any better if you're wearing heels and not sneakers. Overall, I hope walking is a nice experience for everyone, heels or not." - Christopher Campbell, third-year University of Cincinnati student

"Going to Kent for four years, I had mixed feelings about the whole girls in pumps situation. I was often turned off by it and the aspect girls are dressing up to sell themselves to the prof or to some guy who doesn't give a damn about being in class or even for the girl, for that matter. I still think this because the guy professor is always going to dig a girl in tight pants and five inch heels, come on, no matter what sex you are, you are going to check her out whether it is good or bad. However, if you are doing it for the right reasons, to look nice and classy, I give you props, because I would wear pumps to class to look presentable and make myself more professional and respectful. So, I think it all matters on how you are presenting yourself and what your intentions are." - Lesley Katzenmeyer, fourth-year Kent State student

Questionable campus fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-11T15:20:00.000-07:00

Finally, it has happened.

Since introducing 'questionable campus fashion' onto my blog, I wondered how long it might take for someone to commit the same mistake. Well, my friends, today I bring to you the first (and probably not the last) repeat offender.

Yes, you see correctly. It's the same girl wearing the same pink leggings from April 29. I'm not going to hate on her for wearing them so closely together. Lord knows I wear the same pants all the stinking time, but, I mean, wearing jeans is not the same as wearing leggings as pants. Especially pink leggings as pants. Especially when leggings are not pants.

Someone needs to throw this girl an intervention.

Cocktail party dilemma | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-10T21:44:00.000-07:00

I need your help. I have been invited to a cocktail party on May 30. I've got some time to plan accordingly, so I want to make sure I have something fabulous.

I'm not sure what I'm looking for exactly - as far as the dress goes. I've been eyeing a pair of studded booties for awhile, so I'm thinking this is the perfect excuse. I can use them to toughen up a girly dress if that's what I find. Plus I can wear them with lots of other things in my wardrobe.

I don't need to look super girly or super fancy, in fact, I'm not sure that's even what I would want. All I know is that I need to look fierce without spending astronomical amounts of money, because, well, I don't have astronomical amounts of money. I hardly have any money, actually. Unless I can reason that I'll wear the dress again, I'm not looking to spend a ton of money.

But I am looking for some help. Point me in the direction of your favorite studded booties - that aren't too overpriced - and some cocktail dresses you think would fit and flatter my frame. I'm not barring myself from any color or shape, so the possibilities are endless. I have no fear.

So, my fashion-forward friends. Dress me.

You fail means we win | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-10T15:16:00.000-07:00

So, everyone's - or at least my - least favorite shoe looks like it's finally headed for doomsday. I am thrilled. Tickled. Never been happier about the financial demise of a company (that I can think of, anyway).

Could someone please mention this to Garrett? I think he missed the memo.

Questionable campus fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-09T21:05:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time I was hated on for hating on UGGs. I really dislike them though. In all instances, with all outfits. I especially hate them in the spring and summer; how can someone justify wearing winter boots in the warm weather months?

Someone please explain. Or at least try to.

Ugg[h].

As always hit me up via picture message or e-mail if you spot some questionable on-campus fashion: thefashiondungjen@gmail.com

A makeover for Shadow Hare? | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-07T09:43:00.001-07:00

By now, everyone knows - or should know - of the newest, latest and greatest obsession from the east coast to the west, from the north to the south. If not, you're in for a real treat. For anyone who has lost hope in humanity, there are still people out there who want to make a difference (as silly as it may seem).

So, if you haven't seen him, or simply can't get enough, here's some of the news coverage on Shadow Hare:

It wasn't until I saw a photo of DAAP students on the University of Cincinnati's homepage that showed students had actually made their own super hero costumes that I thought Shadow Hare - although new to the scene - might be ready for a makeover.

I stewed, I thought, I contemplated. What would make Shadow Hare better? With only a few ideas and very little background in comic book geekdom, I turned to the on-campus experts for some help.

“He definitely needs something that is more streamlined,” said Meredith Waddell, a first-year fine arts student. “He needs something more menacing because he tries to stop thugs, so he needs, like, a cape. He has a good idea right now, but he needs to push it further to look more professional.”

Waddell (left) also suggested Shadow Hare might need ears affixed to his mask. He is a hare, after all.

Other UC students agreed that an additional play off of his alter ego.

"I'm thinking whiskers," said Ariel Cheung, via Twitter.

And what about the cape? Should he have one? Should not? In a comment on The News Record's Web site, a Shadow Hare fanatic thinks the cape is world class.

"So, go Shadow Hare! Fight the good fight!!! I saw you today (05-07-09), and I was impressed. Love the way the cape fluttered behind you on the Segway as you raced down Court Street," said Martin M. Wilkinson.

If you've seen today's column, you already know I'm asking everyone to make over Cincinnati's own hero: Shadow Hare.

I'm asking people to send me sketches, collages, pictures or whatever you can put together to depict what you think Shadow Hare's aesthetic should look like.

Already this morning one e-mail suggested Shadow Hare, instead of spandex, should wear a motorcycle jacket since they're meant to withstand impacts up to 60 mph. I think that's brilliant.

And then there are those in different countries, just catching wind of our furry friend.

"I am a second-year engineering student with a friend enrolled in fashion. After I read that "Shadow Hare" (who I had never heard of before yesterday) had gotten a dislocated shoulder while being a good Samaritan I thought of how that could have been prevented," said an anonymous commenter on TNR's Web site. "Theoretically, Nylon is better than sweat pants but honestly, if he wants genuine protection he's going to have to accept some weight. I've got a couple of materials that are lighter than Kevlar but to give him adequate safety against from an unbalanced person with an exacto knife - he needs to be willing to sport an extra, oh 10 to 20 pounds. His mask could be replaced with a fiberglass helmet."

But engineers and fashion design students don't come cheap.

"My prof has the equipment to custom make one, but I would need his measurements - ideally, he could drop by UBC in Vancouver and I could make the whole thing for him there in about 1-2 weeks. Probably mid August, but you never what might come up. I have to admit though that I don't work pro-bono. $8 Canadian/hour so probably $640 Canadian i.e $550 US," the commenter said.

What do you think? If you happen to be a UC student or someone who visits campus from time-to-time, drop off your rendition of Shadow Hare to The News Record office, 509 Swift Hall, or digitize what you have and shoot me an e-mail: thefashiondungjen@gmail.com.

Questionable campus fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-06T23:19:00.000-07:00

I knew it would only be a matter of time before I had someone from The News Record staff making the office's debut in a QCF blog post.

And, today, my friends, my TNR buddies, today Garret Sabelhaus, co-sports editor, is the first to take the hit.

Crocs. Sick. Garrett, why would you do this to yourself? To your feet? What have they done to you? Now, if you have toe jam, it's going to be bacteria-infested toe jam. Those things are like a breeding ground for all things disgusting. (I mean, the shoe - if you can call it that - itself is disgusting.)

Tsk, tsk, Garrett. Good thing you're not too much of a weasel.

Effing sports.

Questionable campus fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-06T23:06:00.000-07:00

It's been a few days since we've had some questionable campus fashion to post. So, good friends, today I come with several installments for your viewing [dis]pleasure while I procrastinate the last 200 words of my history essay.

The first faux-pas I bring to you is courtesy of Jillian. You might know her. She's a frequent contributor to QCF, she also won the bra bust contest. All around, Jillian is a good woman.

She sent me these few picture messages today, and, upon receiving them, I thought the girl had put on some terrifyingly hideous knee-length dress to wear over her denim. Fortunately, sort of, I was wrong. It turns out the gross garment in question is actually a jacket. One that Jillian described to me as being "band-like" with large gold buttons.

Still, not really what I would call a winning garment.

What do you all think of the solid and stripped jacket (especially paired with that bag)?

DAAP Creations: Jewelry by Elizabeth Normand | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-05-03T21:12:00.000-07:00

If going green is the new black and repurposed is refined, Elizabeth Normand is an up-and-coming it girl in Cincinnati.

Normand, a third-year fashion design student at the University of Cincinnati, takes what is old and makes it new. Her main focus, for now, is her jewelry, which she sells on Etsy.com and at craft shows.

Her most inspired pieces are necklaces made from seven-inch vinyl records. Without divulging the tricks of her trade, Normand’s process for creating the ruffled record necklaces is fairly simple – the general process takes about a half hour. What is the most time consuming is the hand-painted designs she meticulously crafts on every piece.

Each design is different and depends on what inspires her most. Sometimes it’s a vintage pattern, sometimes its printed fabric. Although each looks perfectly crafted, some designs are the product of a painting mistake, forcing her to get even more creative with her craft.

She started making jewelry last fall while she worked at her first co-op, Twelve Factor, a Cincinnati-based children’s wear company, for which she designed a fall clothing collection.

“First I made a record bowl, and once I saw how it turned out, I was like, ‘Oh, that would make a super sweet necklace,’ ” Normand said.

At first the necklace making was a stress-relieving hobby to occupy time. Once it became a part of her regular routine, Normand decided it was a business venture worth pursuing.

In August 2008, she opened her own Etsy store – elizabethnormand.etsy.com – selling jewelry made from recycled materials. Although her shop only shows 12 sales, Normand has had sales reach as far as Denmark.

“Cincinnati is conservative,” Normand said. “The further from Cincinnati I get, the more successful [sales are].”

While the record necklaces are unique, they’re not the only unique jewelry on the eco-friendly menu: She’s made necklaces from recycled stained glass and she even sells a handlebar mustache on a silver chain.

Normand also makes hair accessories, usually adorned with feathers and vintage buttons, again reiterating her devotion to recycled materials in an effort to keep what might be perceived as trash out of a landfill.

Since opening her shop, Normand has expanded her line to include bags and some clothing.

The shirt featured in her Etsy store is a shredded light pink one size fits all T-shirt. It’s grungy and dramatic while still managing to feel girly.

Although it’s the only garment listed, Normand expects she’ll start to expand her clothing line in the future.

“I’m pretty much working on making more clothing,” Normand said. “The next step is to make everything more professional looking, to make everything look a little more polished, more upscale and not like it was handmade.”

Normand is scheduled to showcase and sell her record necklaces at OddMall: Emporium of the Weird, in Hudson, Ohio, on May 9.

For more information on OddMall, visit the Web site at http://www.oddmall.info.

Questionable campus fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-29T20:19:00.000-07:00

So, my buddy Tiffany sent me a text today proclaiming she saw a girl wearing a hot pink bra underneath a white T-shirt. Just then, saddened that she couldn't snap a photo for the blog, I got this: a picture of some girl in leggings ... as pants. Sick. Seriously. I don't like this. I'm sick of it. It's going to make my head explode. Arugh.

Questionable campus fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-27T16:31:00.001-07:00

I love baseball. I played softball from the time I was 5 years old until I graduated high school. Growing up, we went to a decent number of Indian's games and they have, and will, always be my favorite baseball team. (Even in spite of their losing record. They're currently 7-12. Hopefully they'll crush Boston tonight. I hate Boston.)

But, as much as I hate the Red Sox, I loathe the Yankees. As a Cleveland-area native, you live and die by an extreme dislike for the weasels up north. (And I say weasels because they don't even have names on their stinkin' uniforms. Come on.)

So, with that said, when I saw one of my friends/residents - who is from north eastern Ohio - wearing a stinkin' Yankees T-shirt, I felt betrayed.

So, Aldawna, you've been shunned. Do yourself a favor and use that thing as a rag.

We have a winner | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-27T05:51:00.001-07:00

Well, ladies, gentlemen and Tula. It would appear that we have a winner for the bra busts contest. Lets all congratulate Jillian on having the most mortifying bra-related experience. Nice job, Jillian! I'm proud of you, honey. Now maybe you can buy a bra that, you know, fits.

Jillian will receive a $25 gift card to Macy's, courtesy of Macy's and its "Fit Matters" campaign.

Thanks to everyone who dished their dirt and those who voted.

If you missed Jillian's embarrassment, don't worry. You can relive her nightmare over, and over and over again: here.

Questionable campus fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-23T20:26:00.000-07:00

I'm always picking on women. It's way easier. Seriously.

Today, my friend and news reporter Ariel hooked me up with a picture of a dude she saw grocery shopping in our local Kroger.

I'm all for a bright shoe, but, seriously, there is something about this shoe and shorts combo that isn't working for me.

What do you guys think about these bright kicks and neutral, well, everything else?

Send all questionable campus fashion posts to thefashiondungjen@gmail.com!

Questionable campus fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-22T19:43:00.000-07:00

FOUND:

The owner of this silky-looking gray bra should know that it is not appropriate to fly free all of the time. I bet if this broad would have lost her bra a little sooner - so much for the walk of shame (Thanks, Kristy) - she would have been a high-ranking contestant in the bra bust contest. Too bad for her, she just missed out on a $25 Macy's card.

Anyway, I wonder if she knows her bra is missing? If you see a girl with floppy/saggy/misplaced breasts, let her know that Steph found her bra.

People are all over this questionable campus fashion thing. I love it. Keep it coming, folks. Send all submissions to thefashiondungjen@gmail.com.

Questionable campus fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-22T11:41:00.000-07:00

I love this. You guys rule.

I logged into my Gmail account this morning and was greeted with a reader-provided snapshot of some questionable campus fashion.

I present to you, dear readers, courtesy of Raven Nelson, the Jheri curl mullet:

I would go so far to say that this isn't even a matter of being questionable, but falls right into being a problem. Mullets, Jheri curl mullets at that, should never have been acceptable. My younger brother, Kevyn, had a mullet growing up. Those pictures don't see much daylight. (How curious that is...)

That said, however, some of you might remember - especially if you followed my old blog from last summer, Donotdrinkme, my experience with a Jheri curl...

Oh, Alabama. I will always remember you with such interesting memories. (Please don't hold this against me.)

Send any questionable campus fashion sightings to thefashiondungjen@gmail.com.

Questionable campus fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-21T17:00:00.000-07:00

Not only did I spot this last night in Stadium View, but Jillian also snapped a shot. What does that say about the campus fashion oddity? Hmm... What we have here, my friends, is a girl who has performed some reconstructive surgery on her Cincinnati Bearcats T-shirt so that it exposes her entire white sports bra. In the photos she's wearing a purple zip-up hoodie; she most definitely put that on right before she was about to leave. We all got an eye full.

As always, if you spot a questionable campus fashion statement snap a photo and e-mail it to me at thefashiondungjen@gmail.com.

Love ya.

Questionable campus fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-20T17:36:00.000-07:00

Seriously, I love when this happens. People spot bad fashion on campus, whip out their cell phones and send me a picture message. I have such an excellent network of friends.

It was a delight[?] when I receive this message this morning: A girl on campus wearing, of course, leggings as pants. Behold:

I should really keep tally of how often I say this, but, leggings are not pants. Leggings have never been pants. They will never be pants. Please stop wearing them as pants so I can stop saying this. I'm starting to annoy myself. Except, well, you annoy me more.

As always, if you spot something questionable on campus, hit me up. Send me an e-mail with your photos to thefashiondungjen@gmail.com.

Questionable campus fashion | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-19T23:09:00.001-07:00

I had to run across campus today to pick up a flash drive from my good pal Sam. On my way back to The News Record from Daniel's Hall (for those familiar with the University of Cincinnati campus you know what I'm talking about) I ran across a sopping wet corset lying on the sidewalk. The surprise wasn't that it was soaking wet - it had been raining all day - but why was some girls' corset lying on the sidewalk? Was someone running around naked this weekend? Very interesting.

My size Barbie, Day 4: Jillian | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-19T14:35:00.001-07:00

The lady behind Jillian's look? Steph T.

Knowing that Jillian was going to be working after class, I gave her a more of a "teacher" look. I picked a spring dress, knowing that the weather was going to be nice. I picked a plain white T-shirt for underneath because it was a little too revealing. Because of the short length, leggings were also a must. I also thought the dress would go better with flats instead of high heels. Overall I thought it was a youthful look for Jillian.

Bra Busts: Danessa S. | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-19T14:19:00.000-07:00

When I was younger, about 11 or 12 I had boobs, and quite large for my age. Just seemed to go from normal to large over night, and not wanting to bother my mom, I never told her that the bra I had was extremely tight.

One night I was babysitting for a couple with 3 kids, their ages 8, 5, and 2. The youngest was a girl, and the two older were boys. Apparently their family talks about body parts at a very early age, because while I was playing with the girl she grabbed my chest and said, my mommy has these. Are you a mommy too? And proceeded to tug on my boob, putting just the right amount of strain on the clasp for my bra to pop off and the metal to bend. The older boys laughed at me as I tried to get the girl off my chest to try and fix my bra. I spent a ridiculous amount of time in the bathroom, until I finally gave up and just took off my bra until the parents got home. Of course, the childrens first announcement to the parents was, Danessa's chest thingy came off and she can't fix it! It's been almost 8 years, and those boys still remind me every time I see them...

Bra busts: Jac | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-17T05:46:00.000-07:00

For my freshmen year of college, I went to Lake Forest College (near Chicago). The summer before leaving I started dating a guy, Jason, back home in Cincinnati. Because we both are absolutely nuts, we decided to try the whole long distance thing. Luckily, it worked and I ended up transferring back to Cincy the next year.

Well, we promised each other to try to take turns making visits on the weekends. When September rolled around, I was eager to visit my beau in Cincy so I planned a high-end and classy voyage on the Greyhound bus.

After waiting a few hours in the depot, I eagerly boarded my (LATE) Greyhound. Before I made it to my seat, I noticed a very strange sensation coming from under my shirt. I suddenly felt...unsupported. I desperately tried to think of what could have happened, as I was surrounded by people and could not check things out for myself.

I then remembered I was wearing a new bra, one with an adjustable clip in the front for added cleavage. After all, I was about to visit my boyfriend. I guess something went hay-wire (perhaps I tried to amp up the girls too much?) and the clip popped off.

After I set my baggage on my seat, I ran to the restroom on the back of the bus. Occupied. I waited outside the door for several minutes. Nothing. Assuming someone had died in the restroom, I retreated to my seat as the bus was leaving the station.

A few miles out of downtown Chicago, a man emerged from the restroom and I hurried back in. Well, nobody died in there but it sure smelled like it. I tried to hold my breath as long as possible as I checked out what kind of trauma my bra had gone through. Sure enough, that little clip was no where to be found and I was left with an open-faced brassier.

While I'm no MacGyver, I was able to salvage my bra. I took my hair down and used my hair tie to finagle a new clasp. The cleavage wasn't as kickin', but at least I had something. I exited the restroom, gasping for breath. Hopefully no one thought that stank had come from me.

I think the saddest part about this story is that two-and-a-half years later I STILL have the bra in my possession. It is worn only in emergency laundry crises. Bras are expensive, man.

Stupid fashion rules | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-16T02:20:00.000-07:00

There are so many fashion rules that are seen as acceptable for no reason other than it's what Mama said.

I don't get it. I think black is completely acceptable with brown and navy. I think white after Labor day is a great idea. I also stand firm when I say that matching your shoes to your bag is a philosophy that was over in, like, the 50s.

The rules are meant to be broken, baby. For the hellian in you, here are some rules worth breaking:

1) No black with brown or navy.

Seriously, who came up with this? Black, brown and navy are three of my favorite colors separately, but, more importantly, they make up some of my favorite color combinations. There’s nothing quite as chic as an all-black ensemble with brown boots. Here’s why it works: All three colors are neutrals. Makes sense, right?

After catching some flak for mixing black and brown in an outfit featured on this blog - during 'no-pants week' I put together a point-by-point analysis on why the two are an excellent match.

Some wise women agreed that black and brown is the way to go.

“It's true, I've never thought twice about mixing black and brown,” said Sally Jane of the Sally Jane Vintage blog. “I even mix black and navy. I love it!”

Some, who were naysayers to start, had seen the light.

“No, no, no, no! It hurts my eyes!” said Thrice, another blogger. “OK, so I previously said I don't like mixing black and brown; you've shown me I can do it and look good … So I won't ever scold anybody for mixing those colors, but I won't wear them together either.”

2) No white after Labor Day.

False. False, false, false. This is probably one of the most outdated “rules” but still one of the most widely accepted. In warmer months it’s easy to subscribe to wearing white because it’s cool, bright and fresh – all words that one might associate with spring and summer. But, when you’re stuck in a rut next winter – pulling only navy, gray and black from your closet – a burst of white could actually do some good.

It’s definitely mixing it up, which is positive itself, but the constant stream of dark colors can start to take a toll on a person’s mood. It’s a correlation to seasonal depression which affects most people one way or another. People need fresh, crisp and bright colors in the winter months more than ever to lift their spirits.

3) You should always match your shoes to your handbag.

Admittedly, this may be a fashion don’t that isn’t actually done, but, regardless, it’s still something you might hear from mom or grandma if they don’t know any better.

This is kind of domestic 1950s housewife-esque. Sure, it could be a great excuse for buying new shoes and new bags every 30 seconds, but, unless you’re Oprah, who has the money for that? Instead of matching bags and shoes it would actually better to pull out accent colors. For example, if you’re wearing a blue floral shirt with small red dots at the center of each flower, play up the red. Wear red shoes, carry a red bag or find a belt to match. Not only will it make the red pop, but the outfit will look more complete.

4) Your underwear should match your bra or your underwear should match your T-shirt.

I kid you not, in highschool the girls in my class - Wadsworth, 2006 - would literally have entire conversations about their undewear and whether or not they were able to match it to their T-shirt of the day. You'd have the totally popular girls who, sometimes didn't have conversations to let you know their panties matched their top - you pretty much got an eyeful that would tell you everything you didn't want to know. I have no idea who or where this originated, or why anyone ever thought this would be a good idea. How many of you have a bra with a pair of underwear that matches? And, if you do, it's probably not on accident - you likely picked it out with a purpose in mind. Am I right? In theory, on a daily basis, how many people are going to see your bra and underwear to make sure they match. And, if, someone is seeing your under garments every day, do you really think they care enough to pay attention..?

5) The length of your jacket must match the length of your skirt or dress.

Imagine walking around in a jacket that is just, perhaps, a little bit longer than your skirt. Your jacket is all buttoned and tied. People start looking at you funny, but you can't figure out what's wrong. isn't this right? Didn't Mama always tell you how to dress? Well, did you ever think that what Mama was telling you wasn't right? God knows that when she told you Santa wasn't real you refused to believe that so why trust her awful rules of style? It's not that people are probably nitpicking about your outfit if you're jacket and skirt are equal lengths. Nope, nope, nope.

My guess: You look like a flasher. You'll especially look like a flasher if you're wearing a low-cut dress or sweater. Awesome: a fashion victim and a decency perpetrator. Quite the resume.

6) Don’t mix metals.

I used to work in a jewelry store. I cannot tell you how often I hear this. People are more passionate about this stupid, stupid rule than they are Jesus. Seriously. This is so archaic. Mixing gold and white gold or gold and silver is completely acceptable; in fact, I believe in it so much that I do it on an almost daily basis. I love to mix my bracelets, my rings. Mixing gives an outfit greater depth and contrast. Don’t be afraid, it doesn’t look bad. They don’t make two-tone gold for no reason, you know.

7) No leather or suede in the winter.

If you look closely at my header photo you’ll see that I vehemently disagree with this. Not only am I wearing a 100 percent leather vest, and not only is it summer, but the photo was taken in Alabama last summer. Talk about hot.

I think the idea behind the no leather, no suede rule is based on fabric weights, but if you choose pieces carefully and in moderation they can certainly work. Obviously if it’s summer and you can’t wait to wear a leather jacket with some leather pants you’re going to look like an asshole. (I don’t think a change in season would fix that.)

What am I missing? What are some fashion rules that were made to be broken?

My size Barbie, Day 3: Jillian | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-15T22:58:00.000-07:00

Hi. My name is Lumber Jill and this is my story. During Life Size Barbie Week, my friend Steve picked out my outfit. He originally planned to go for the country look but alas I had no cowboy boots or hat.

So he compromised. Plaid shirt, Eskimo boots, no make-up, plain hair. Add it all together and you get me, Lumber Jill. I was so inspired by my new outfit I decided to take on a whole new lifestyle.

I spent the day carrying around an axe and chopping down trees. I ate with my hands and didn’t cover my mouth when I coughed. I stayed outside all day and relished in my smelliness. Chopping down trees is hard work, but hearing that final crack when the tree falls is extremely satisfying. Don’t worry though; I’m an environmentally friendly Lumber Jill. All trees that I cut down will be properly recycled, especially since it’s Conservation Month here at UC.

Epic fail | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-15T22:45:00.000-07:00

I am a failure, a quitter. A no good, dirty rotten, punk-faced weasel.

I am a grouch.

I haven't slept more than 4 hours any day this week and it has definitely been noticeable. I've tried to do this whole, 'let people dress me thing,' but, instead of letting people rummage through my closet, I'd rather punch them all in the face.

I woke up this morning with the best intentions, to put on exactly what Jillian picked out the night before. And, I did. I got up, got dressed with my arranged ensemble, and wanted to scream in frustration. Normally, I'm all for dress up, but with a lack of sleep replaced by insurmountable volumes of bitch I ripped the clothes from my body and went with something a little more Taylor.

It's not that what Jillian picked out was awful - although we did decide I would have looked like a grandma - but I just own things I'm not comfortable in, things that don't fit that well. Having people pick out my clothes is a pain in the ass. I didn't plan this very well. None of the original people have actually bothered to follow through with their zeal of dressing me. (Jillian's outfit of choice, if you're curious, consisted of a purple plaid shirt, a purple cardigan, dark-wash flare jeans, blue flats - which I still wore - and a cameo and a pseudo pearl necklace.)

So, what I plan to do for the rest of the week and the coming weekend is to get some stinking sleep. I'll let some of my freakish friends dress me next week and maybe, just maybe, I'll check the 'tude at the closet door.

My size Barbie, Day 1: Taylor | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-14T23:52:00.000-07:00

OK, OK. So, today is technically day two. I know. I fail. Whatever. Sean, entertainment editor at The News Record, was supposed to pick out my clothes for me on Monday. So, what he did, was show me a picture of Amy Poehler from Parks and Recreation. She was wearing a gray skirt suit with a red shirt. I don't own a gray skirt suit.

With no one available to pick out an outfit, I just dressed on Monday. So, that, my friends, is why this is day one on day two.

I almost had to wear this flower on my head. I would have lost every single friend I have.

Today my good friend Mike Herrmann picked out my clothes. Mike is a fellow RA and a third-year biology student. He's good people. Completely outrageous. Does, says and wears some ridiculous things. I mean, really ridiculous. He owns a pair of gold lame leggings. Yeah, he's worn them. He's also borrowed a leopard full-body suit and purple leggings from Rachel.

While "posing" for this picture Mike said, "Oh, I actually just licked this shoe."

Knowing just how outrageous he is, I knew he would be an interesting candidate for picking out an outfit for me.

We went through several outfit changes. He put together every look from a 13-year-old boy, an American tourist in China, grunge, Where's Waldo. My room is a disaster now, by the way.

The first thing Mike pulled from my closet is what I ended up wearing: a thrifted "Where's Waldo" - inspired sweater, dark skinny jeans and my Steve Madden boots.

I can legitimately say I am very glad I did not end up in leggings as pants or anything quite as ridiculous. So, Mike, thank you.

My size Barbie, Day 2: Jillian | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-14T23:50:00.001-07:00

The man behind Jillian's soccer mom outfit? Mike C.

Why did I pick these things for Jillian? I’d have to say it’s mostly because of a friend I have back home in Canton; one who I think Taylor would get along with very well. She is very cynical, always speaks her mind, and is also very fashion forward, not to mention she is rather tall, slender, and has an alabaster complexion much like Jillian does. I’m not saying what I chose for Jillian is something that my friend would wear but I did try to focus on the color schemes she uses every day. The majority of the time my friend utilizes whites, greens, and oranges in her wardrobe with a general emphasis on formfitting pieces. I wanted the outfit to come off much more trendy than it did (it was described as that of a soccer mom) but I had to work with what I had and I was pretty much set on the colors I had chosen. Who’s to say soccer moms aren’t sexy anyway? I think Jillian looked great.

Bra Busts Entry | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-13T22:08:00.000-07:00

By: Jessica M

My freshmen homecoming my mom helped me go shopping for a dress; I picked out one that had no back. When I was ready to buy it, I told my mom I would need a special bra to wear since the back was bare. My mom said we would go shopping another time because, at this point, she had been shopped out. The week led up to Homecoming and I kept asking my mom to take me to get a bra. The day for Homecoming arrived and my mom still had not taken me to get a bra!!! I was mad and started crying like a silly 14-year-old girl (but hey, I was 14) and began to get creative. I took a strapless bra and cut off the some of back and duct tapped it underneath my armpits. It was very uncomfortable, but I had no choice. That night, while dancing in a hot room, sweat from my armpits made the duct tape come loose and I had to wear around a saggy bra the rest of the night. The lesson I took from that one: Don't ever trust your parents.

**A note from The Fashion Dungjen: Or maybe the lesson should be to not tape bras to your armpits..? :Wink:

Bra Busts Entry | The Fashion Dungjen

2009-04-13T22:03:00.000-07:00

My Most Embarrassing Bra Moment: by Jillian S.

So I have this strapless bra:

Super cute with polka dots and I love it. Except that I’ve always had trouble with strapless things. I have a very small chest so there’s nothing really there to hold things up.

So one day there’s me, wearing a cute flowy top that happens to be strapless. So of course I’m wearing my strapless bra. I’m having fun, looking cute.

However I have to keep pulling the bra up to keep it in place. But somehow, I forget about this at some point during the day. Sometime in the late after noon, I go to the bathroom. While doing my business, I notice something strange.

My bra had slipped down all the way to my waist! And I hadn’t noticed! Who know how long I was walking around like that.

Needless to say, since the incident, I wear strapless bras with great caution and I check to make sure it is still there almost every two minutes.