ON ARAME: GALAMAAR SWIMSUIT; PR SOLO EARRINGS.

ON ANJIA: AANOUKIS SWIMSUIT; GORJANA NECKLACE.

ON ANJIA: NATASHA TONIC SWIMSUIT; VINTAGE EARRINGS.

ON ARAME: GALAMAAR SWIMSUIT; PR SOLO EARRINGS.

ON ARAME: OSCAR DE LA RENTA SWIMSUIT; GCDS EARRINGS; VINTAGE BRACELET.

ON ARAME: GALAMAAR SWIMSUIT; VINTAGE SWIMCAP

Top Image: ON ARAME: GALAMAAR SWIMSUIT; PR SOLO NECKLACE, BRACELET, AND EARRINGS.

I Got You, Babe

Bodycare brand Megababe (megababebeauty.com) saved my life and thighs. I never have to deal with painful chafing ever again thanks to Thigh Rescue ($14), a lightweight, easy to apply, ant-friction stick. It’s a year-round essential, but true savior during the sweaty summer months. –Marie Lodi

Conversation Starter

Seen on the hands of Gloria Steinem and Erykah Badu, the Clitoring (penelopijones.com) is a not-so-subtle way to show some love to arguably the best part of the snatch. Handmade in Brooklyn, the rings come in sterling silver ($157) and brass ($95). Get your finger on the pulse and become a member of the clitorati yourself. –Callie Watts

Vacation, All I Ever Wanted

I’m in love with the ‘80s-inspired sunscreen brand Vacation (vacation.inc). Every product is a delight, from the Classic Whip SPF 30 ($22), which looks like canned whipped cream, to the SPF 30 Baby Oil ($22), which is inspired by the questionable suntanning technique from our youth, but so much safer! –M.L.

It’s A Vibe

Shopping for a bathing suit can feel like visiting the fifth circle of hell because of frustratingly inconsistent sizing, but Kitty and Vibe (kittyandvibe.com, $58-$110) are changing the game. They’re the first brand to make bikini bottoms based on booty size, go up to a size 5X, and have small band options. Plus, the prints are gorg! –M.L.

All Clogged Up

I’m all about a comfy clog, but Hunter’s Unisex In/Out Bloom Clogs ($60, hunterboots.com) go beyond a good fit. They’re made from recycled materials and algae that’s harvested from cleaning up natural waterways. Not only do they work great in the garden, but they also come in a variety of fun colors. –Laurie Henzel

Top Image: Photo Credit: Ryan McGilchrist via wikicommons

BUST has been a home for many incredible stories over the years, and has held a special place in the hearts of many over the decades. (If you’re feeling sentimental, check out this retrospective we did for our 25th anniversary, where readers share their favorite moments about the magazine.) As time passes and the social landscape changes, BUST has continued to publish fresh and innovative features on the coolest feminists of today.

BUST, like boygenius, was formed independently by a trio of badass women. BUST started out as a homemade zine in 1993. The first few issues were photocopied, stapled together, and distributed by its three founders, Laurie Henzel, Debbie Stoller, and Marcela Karp.

In those 30 years, we’ve created a bi-annual craft fair, published several books, and have had over 10,000 subscribers as of 2018. For our 30th anniversary issue, we decided to celebrate with boygenuis, the indie-rock supergroup that’s taking the world by storm.

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boygenius is composed of indie-rock singer Julien Baker, viral folk sensation Phoebe Bridgers, and singer-songwriter Lucy Dacus. In our summer issue, released on June 1st, the trio discussed their rise to being one of the most influential feminist supergroups of the modern age. The members of the band talk with BUST about their blooming friendship, their (sometimes rabid) fanbase, and Kristen Stewart, who directed the band’s short film. They also discuss their debut studio album, The Record, which was released earlier this year on March 31st.

Dacus and Baker had previously been acquainted since they both performed together in Washington DC back in 2016, but after performing on the same bill in 2018, all three women got together to record a promotional single for the tour. They decided that they were having too much fun to stop, and later that year, they released their first official EP as boygenius. How did they land on their unique and discordant name? How did the COVID-19 epidemic affect their success? How do they feel about their adoring fans? And who the hell is Maxine? You’ll just have to pick up our newest issue to find out!

But boygenius isn’t the only thing we’re highlighting this summer. Here are some other cool things to look out for in the 2023 Summer issue.

Check out our feature on Malaysian film producer and screenwriter, Adele Lim. Lim talks with us about her new R-rated comedy, Joy Ride, which came out June 7th. Joy Ride is the first major studio film with an all Asian-American (and predominantly female) cast. The film is raunchy, delightful, and diverse. Lim was open with BUST about the real-life inspiration behind Joy Ride, Asian-American representation in media, and her lengthy list of credits (including Disney’s Raja and The Last Dragon, and Crazy Rich Asians). “We’re finding joy and reveling in our own messiness, just like any other white guy’s R-rated comedy.” Succinct, substantial, and chock-full of intersectional feminism, Adele Lim’s feature is a must-read.

But that’s not all the intersectionality we have to offer; check out the other pieces on writer and activist Rachel Cargle, and our feature on comedian and “cat daddy” Marc Maron.

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Caren

This issue is also full of fun treats for those long hot summer days, like our recipe for grilled peaches, and DIY Balboa Bars. The only thing better than enjoying a cool homemade treat on a hot summer day is looking cool while you do it. Take a look through our ‘Looksee’ feature, where we list all the things we’re into this season, like this cutely packaged sunscreen, these size inclusive swimsuits, and unique sunnies to shield your eyes from the sun’s rays. There’s more cool attire featured throughout; our Get The Look section highlights several Malibu Barbie-themed accessories, like these Moxi roller skates, and this vintage polaroid film camera. But we’re just as comprehensive about our fashion coverage as we are with our anthropology.

This summer’s issue is also full of cool cultural pieces and historical topics, like the extensive feature on the lives of women in the rural mountains of Tibet. The story, written by Eleanor Moseman, details Moseman’s time spent with Tibetan villager Jamyang Tsomo and her family. It covers Tsomos daily chores, which include tending to yaks, harvesting barley, and looking after her family. Jamyang Tsomo’s story is a phenomenal glance into the lesser covered fierce women of the modern world. And she’s not the only cool cultural feature we have. This Summer’s issue also has an inside scoop on “one of the Middle Ages most fascinating figures,” visionary St. Hildegard of Bingen, written by noted historian Dr. Eleanor Janega.

So if you haven’t subscribed already, you’re definitely missing out. There’s something so special about receiving a physical print publication in the mail. It’s nostalgic, and reminiscent of the simpler bittersweet days of adolescence. Relieve the days of reading horoscopes aloud to your bestie and skimming the pages of a magazine for cute summer accessories. Alternatively, indulge your curiosity for knowledge by checking out our features on the historic town of Dublin, or the origins of Midsummer (the Scandinavian Pagan tradition, not the Ari Aster film!) And of course, as always, there’s way more!

We here at BUST are proud to provide a platform for everything; and our digital articles are no different. From updates on the new Barbie Movie, to abortion rights, and from Taylor Swift & Ice Spice collaborations, to coverage on an all girls robotics team in Afghanistan, there’s always an exciting online feature for you. Sounds enticing? Keep an eye out for us on your news feed, as well as on your local newsstands. Here’s to another 30 years. And 30 more after that!

Subscribe now to get your hands on this 30th Anniversary issue!

Top Image: Photo Credit: Ramona Rosales

Alongside the most beautiful rendition of Part of Your World, the Grammy-nominated R&B singer managed to perfectly juggle regality as one of the princesses of the sea, as well as being a young girl just trying to find her place in the world.

One of the distinctions that made Bailey’s version of Ariel so unique is her hairーand the importance of keeping her identity through it.

Camille Friend, the head hairstylist of the movie who worked her magic behind the scenes, revealed that around six figures were spent on Bailey’s hair transformation.

“I’m not guesstimating, but we probably spent at least $150,000 because we had to redo it and take it out,” Friend told Variety last week. The hair guru also explained that for Bailey, keeping her natural hair was very important to her. Friend, who has been Oscar-nominated for her excellent styling choices in movies such as Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, explained that after meeting Bailey’s family, she saw her vision for Ariel.

“I went to meet with Halle’s family. Her mother is spiritual, and they’re a kind family. I started to understand who she was and why the natural hair element was important to keep.”

According to Friend, Ariel’s signature “candy apple red” color was never in the question since Bailey is not a cartoon. The stylist wanted to use a shade of red that complimented the young actress’ skin tone and eyes. Four different shades were wrapped around this princess’ natural locsーand it looked amazing.

When it came down to Ariel’s iconic hair flip, the budding actress admitted that it took an entire day to perfect it. In a promotional trailer released about two months ago, she revealed the act almost “broke her neck.”

“That scene was so fun to do. It was definitely hard, though, because my hair was really, really heavy. I have my locs, which are my favorite thing. I’ve had my locs since I was 5. It feels like wool when it’s wet. So it gets heavier. It kind of almost doubles the weight when they’re heavy,” she explained in an interview.

And after watching the magical moment reveal itself on the big screen, it’s safe to say her hard work paid off.

As the first Black princess in a Disney live-action, Bailey also talked about how this has been a life-changing role for her.

“It just makes me cry,” she shared with E! News. “The fact that all these little Black and Brown babies are going to be able to feel like they’re being represented is really special to me. I know that if I had that when I was younger, it would have changed a whole lot for me and my perspective on who I am as an individual.”

Friend’s vision of trading in a wig for Bailey’s long locs marked a significant moment for the representation of Black heritage and solidified the importance of the younger generation being able to see themselves and their own features on-screen early on. The film not only lets children but also adults who were robbed of that experience witness the most beloved mermaid fairytale in a fresh, innovative way.

Top photo by The Little Mermaid on Youtube

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Pictured here is Chloe Cherry, the actress that has been hailed as the poster child for “lobotomy chic”, due to her detached gaze, coquettish photoshoots, and surreal posts.

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Alison Harvard, a model formerly known as “Creepy Chan,” has also been mentioned within niche “lobotomy core” communities. Her unnerving, doe-eyed stare coupled with her white vintage clothing, and often darkly eerie backgrounds incite feelings of “psychiatric-ward chic.” Although Harvard herself has never expressed support for or associated with the trend, she’s become imperative to understanding the romanticization of the “hysterical woman.”

The term “dissociative feminism” was coined by Emmeline Clein in 2019 in her article, “The Smartest Women I Know Are All Dissociating.” The word “dissociative” was specifically chosen to describe a social experience unique to women, and how we’re often pushed to utilize extreme levels of detachment in order to cope with the ramifications of living in a patriarchal society. Personally, I remember the day Roe V Wade was overturned, and the collective fugue state that I witnessed myself and many women entering as a result of watching our rights slip away with a couple of signatures. Clein describes dissociative feminism as the act of “interiorizing our existential aches and angst, smirking knowingly at them, and numbing ourselves to maintain our nonchalance.” It’s characterized by a “sarcastic” and “deadpan” approach to misogynistic rhetoric and patriarchal standards. Dissociative feminism gives a name to the increasing number of women who have decided to give up any hope that socio-political dynamics will improve. Instead, there’s a new call to embrace nihilism. Dissociative feminism is the belief that, just like everything else, advocacy is mindless and arbitrary.

As a direct result of this cultural shift amongst women, there’s been an uptick in tongue-in-cheek aesthetics like the “dissociative pout,” and “lobotomy chic.” But what even are they? The term was coined and popularized by essayist, activist and socio-political writer, Rayne Fischer Quann, in her 2022 essay “The Cult of The Dissociative Pout.” The term “lobotomy chic” was used satirically, both critiquing and bringing attention to “the new duckface.” Quann describes the new trend as an unusual performance of detachment. But it’s since been taken at face value, and has become a caricature of itself.

“Lobotomy core,” or “lobotomy chic” is pouty lips and vacant eyes. Its floral dresses and dirty white stockings. It’s characterized by a strange juxtaposition: an uncanniness or a wrongness coupled with a docile, empty gaze akin to that of lobotomy victims. It’s an even more twisted version of the subservient nymphette looks that were popularized on Tumblr in the early 2010s. It’s hypothesized that “lobotomy chic” is a direct response to and rejection of “girlboss” feminism: we’re tired of proving our capability and fighting for our rights. Now all we want to do is detach from the need to obtain them. “Being stupid and hot” is in vogue.

But does this disengaged approach contribute to the same dehumanizing standards it aims to critique? Are we just romanticizing misogynistic history? The verdict is still out. But one thing is for sure: these trends provide crucial insight into societal behaviors. There’s no denying the recent nihilistic cultural shift that’s permeated every aspect of our society. The mere existence, ironic or otherwise, of trends like “lobotomy chic” indicate an ever-growing hopelessness with the state of humanity.

Some activists are getting tired of having the same conversations about equity, and are instead choosing to forfeit entirely. In a sense, the appeal is palpable. Dissociative feminism laid the framework for “lobotomy chic.” Mentally detaching yourself from the patriarchy by ascribing to the horrific ramifications of it serves as a form of escapism; a surrender to the very oppression you’ve lost sleep over fighting against. But are we really too exhausted to continue our advocacy efforts? This type of ironic postmodern feminism has gotten more and more popular as oppressive legislation regarding abortion rights and LGBTQIA+ equality increases. This has been the driving force behind a new collective sense of resentment and fatigue, which are two paradigms “lobotomy chic” would not exist without.

Top Photo Credit: PlacidPlace via Pixabay

I began to do a lot of research, but I also decided to have fun with my alopecia and got the bald spots tattooed. One of the tattoos was inspired by The Omen. I’m a huge horror movie nerd, and since Damien had the 666-shaped mark of the beast birthmark on his head, I thought it would be a fun tribute.

Homemade Hair Oil Serum for Hair Growth

My research led me to a recipe for a homemade hair oil serum to help stimulate the hair follicles for regrowth. I mixed a bunch of plant oils—½ cup jojoba, ½ cup grapeseed, 20 drops rosemary, 30 drops lavender,16 drops thyme. and 30 drops cedarwood—and funneled the result into an old tincture bottle. Before I went to sleep, I’d put the oil on the bald spots, rub it in, put on a cap, and leave it on for eight hours. I also took a double dose of biotin daily. Biotin is a vitamin that helps your hair, skin, and nails grow healthy and strong. Doubling up on it boosted the thing my body wasn’t producing.

I learned that rosemary in particular helps stimulate the hair follicles, which in turn helps them to grow. And there’s science to back it up. According to Dr. Rae Lynne Kinler, a hair transplant surgeon in Greenwich, CT, rosemary essential oil extract works as a protectant against hair loss with pattern alopecia. “There is a study comparing it to Minoxidil for stimulating hair growth that has shown promising results,” she says. “Incorporating it topically is a good support player in this process.” So I started using a rosemary shampoo and conditioner and making my own hair spray with 80 drops of rosemary essential oil and 8 ounces of distilled water, which I still use daily. I spray it on my hair and gently rub it into my scalp; this way I can stimulate those follicles.

How to Reduce Your Stress Levels To Regrow Hair

But one of the most important things I had to do, and definitely the hardest, was to lower my stress levels. Dr. Kinler says that the elevated stressors to our cells, both from short-term hyper-stress spikes and long-term chronic stress, trigger increased cortisol secretion, which promotes hair loss. I know lowering stress sounds impossible, especially when you are stressed about the stress. I tried many different things: yoga, meditation, walks in the woods, but the thing that really worked for me was exercising every day. I started with 15-minute workouts every morning, and then I would make a healthy breakfast and jump into my studio and make art. I developed a routine of going to bed at a certain time and making sure I was out of bed at 9 a.m. I also turned off notifications on my phone during bedtime. Just being able to sleep through the night with no distractions was a big deal.

One of the most important things I had to do, and definitely the hardest, was to lower my stress levels.

After three years, my hair finally grew back completely, but with many more gray hairs. I’m assuming the stress turned my hair gray, but I don’t know that for sure. Whatever the reason is, I’m not mad about it.

Overall, I found that what really worked best for me was managing my stress. Working in my art studio, screen printing, and making jewelry for my company, Feral Hag—that was my zen. I also did everything in baby steps so I didn’t overwhelm myself. For instance, when I started working out, I started with very simple stretches. I’d also do something for myself once a day, whether it was looking for bones in the woods for my jewelry, taking a bath, or baking cookies. I made sure I always did something that made me happy.

Our fashion dreams of shopping in a celebrity’s closet have finally come true. This past Sunday, quintessential 90s “it” girl Chloë Sevigny cleared out her closet, inviting anyone and everyone to sift through her one-of-a-kind wardrobe for a closet sale – and the outcome was mind blowing. 

The actress and fashion icon partnered with The RealReal for a curated sale that she deemed to be the “The Sale of The Century.” Fashion enthusiasts came to pluck away at her wardrobe, finding everything from “everyday staples, Victorian to indie sleaze, designer & tons of denim. Something for everyone.” Held at the St. Peter’s Youth center in downtown Manhattan, the proceeds from the closet sale will benefit the Hetrick-Martin Institute, a New York non-profit LGBTQIA+ youth foundation.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Chloë Sevigny (@chloessevigny)

The event was a part of Vogue writer Liana Satenstein’s Instagram series #NeverWorns, where Satenstein interviews style icons about their personal attire, and encourages them to clean out pieces they’ve never worn. There are many notable fashion figures that have participated in the series, like fashion editors Sally Singer and Lynn Yaeger. However, Sevigny’s supreme style was the main attraction – and fans did not disappoint when it was time to support. 

The line to enter the pop-up shop was as long as the waitlist for Taylor Swift tickets – it wrapped around several blocks. Fashionistas came from far and wide to wait in line for hours in the hopes of catching a glimpse of Sevigny’s wardrobe, and the videos of those waiting in line are astounding. On Twitter, user@StormDorm411 uploaded a 17-second, sped up video of those waiting in line. Just when you think it’s going to end, it doesn’t. 

y’all have fun pic.twitter.com/I75WgneTXD

— ghetto drab art fag? (@StormDorm411) May 14, 2023

Fans could buy anything they found during the sale, and many took to social media to revel in their purchases. From Prada handbags to Gucci toothpaste, it was a fashionista’s wonderland. TikTok user Mandy Lee (@oldloserinbrooklyn) posted a daily vlog of her going to the event, as well as a try-on of the pieces she found. While describing the sale as a “madhouse” for the insane wait, she mentions that “it was really organized, the staff was great, really helpful, the prices were amazing, and the inventory was…I have no words.”

@oldloserinbrooklyn Come with me to Chloe Sevigny’s closet sale in NYC. Got some forever pieces i will treasure #nyc #chloesevigny #closetsale #samplesale #saleofthecentury ♬ original sound – Mandy Lee

I won the Chloe Sevigny storage sale pic.twitter.com/xdH6ANQxTo

— asherah (@e_asherah) May 14, 2023

yeah i bought the gucci toothpaste at the Chloe Sevigny sale… pic.twitter.com/DSaHadV3OF

— Charlotte Rose Benjamin (@charlobenji) May 14, 2023

Nevertheless, it was well worth the wait. Not only were exciting pieces purchased, but friendships were also formed while the sun’s heat blazed down on those New York City streets. Everyone was committed to entering the “Sale of the Century,” and Satenstein posted photos she took of those waiting in line on her Instagram, in all their fashionable, unique glory.  

my new best friends and i leaving the Chloe Sevigny closet sale after learning each others names at 9am pic.twitter.com/6ug7fIM7WQ

— Fallon? (@ifallonthebunny) May 14, 2023

 

 

 

 

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Sevigny’s closet sale was a haute couture paradise; the support Sevigny received as a quintessential fashion symbol was extraordinary. We’re thrilled to see these high-end, barely worn pieces make their way to a new home, to be styled and worn by hundreds of unique souls.

Top photo: by Guy Aroch, from the BUST archives (June/July 2007)

“The book was just the start,” exclaims Avni Parekh, an award-winning, Indian-American author whose unique, highly-rated self-help book, Be The Bigger Person: Scenarios & Solutions to Better Yourself, was recently named a winner of the honorable 2023 Human Relations Indie Book Awards.

Talking to her over FaceTime on a bright, weekday afternoon in May, it’s evident the creative wordsmith is an overachiever by nature and always thinks outside of the box as a way to reach the masses. Earlier this year, Parekh launched an athleisure clothing line under the same name — Be The Bigger Person. “The clothes we wear serve as a powerful tool for self-expression; more importantly, they can reflect the beliefs and values of the person wearing them. Today, more and more people are expressing themselves through their clothing to make a statement in support of kindness and compassion. My athleisure garments are simply an extension of the book’s key messages come to life.”

Since its 2018 debut release on Amazon, Parekh’s efforts have paid off as her intriguing guidebook for millennials, Generation Z, and their respective families, have impacted thousands of readers.

To add to that, her brand’s popular slogan, “be the bigger person,” has gone viral on Instagram Reels with millions of users viewing popular influencer video content expressing how they’d rather be spiteful than magnanimous. As a response to that reaction, the understanding scholar explains; “We all need someone to help remind us to be the bigger person during our most emotionally vulnerable moments in life. And, now more than ever, I think we all need reinforcements in place that aid our well-being and peace of mind.”

Fixated on the goal of bettering herself and others, Parekh knew she had to reach more people in order to make a lasting impact. Name-dropping her book, Be The Bigger Person, on a nationally, Twitter-trending Bravo TV show, Parekh appeared on the third season of the popular network’s hit docuseries featuring the nation’s first ever all-Indian cast, Family Karma, and quickly became a fan favorite. Reaching millions of people through another medium, it’s obvious there’s no avenue the entrepreneurial-minded, long-haired beauty won’t explore to make sure the life-changing message she holds dear in her life is internalized by others in need of emotional support and guidance.

Prevailing over interpersonal conflicts by taking the high road, Parekh’s powerful brand came to life many years before Bravo’s uplifting show made its way onto television. Attributing the concept of her brand to an epiphany, Parekh tells me she was deeply inspired by being able to help others rise above life’s hardships with grace and wrote her well-received book in 30 days. As for the publishing process, she chuckles, divulging that it took four years from start to finish to make one of her childhood dreams a reality.

Parekh has made a name for herself in the indie-publishing world and is now carving one out in entertainment, as well as fashion. A voguish kid growing up, she confides that she “always wished” to have a clothing line. Parekh shares she got an early start in 2008 by designing and selling inspirational T-shirts as a hobby while handling the operations for a leading South Florida yoga studio. 

The enlightened writer and fashionista details how the incorporation of positive slogans in her gender-neutral athleisure clothing can inspire the person who wears it and elevate the spirits of anyone who reads the motivational messages imprinted on her unisex attire. “Athleisurewear that showcases positive affirmations and messages of peace can play a remarkable role in impacting people’s lives. It all starts with the power of visual cues,” implies Parekh. “When we see the same word or phrase over and over, it becomes imbued in our subconscious mind. After that, it begins to influence how we think and act.

Clothes with a positive message like ‘be the bigger person’ can serve as a reminder to ourselves and others to not give in to anger or any other negative emotion they may be feeling at the time, but instead, proceed with caution and try to be understanding.”

Thinking about the bigger picture, the well-versed author divulges that wearing clothes with a message of empathy and compassion can help to create a sense of community. For example, she states: “When we see other people wearing similar clothes to ours, we identify with them. What’s happening is, subconsciously, we start to feel a sense of kinship and unity. Eventually, this can lead to the break down of barriers and create a more inclusive society.”

Spoken like a true diplomat and humanitarian, Parekh also adds that clothes with the “be the bigger person” message can operate as “an antidote” to not succumb to negativity or hostility.

Wanting to create a ripple effect of peace to counteract the violence unfolding in the world today, it’s worth noting that Parekh’s mindful clothes hold the power to remind people to maintain their composure, especially during difficult moments that test one’s patience as her guidebook suggests. She wisely remarks: “When we encounter conflict or rudeness, it can be easy to respond with that very same ego and negative energy. But, say in that instance, you’re looking at or wearing clothes with a message of compassion, that could be a saving-grace moment by reminding us to take the high road by responding with kindness, instead of engaging in a tit-for-tat.”

Elaborating on the domino effect that her mindful apparel can have, Parekh passionately says: “When we act with compassion and understanding, others are more likely to do the same. This can create a chain reaction of kindness that can affect not only our personal relationships but also our communities and even the world.” So, next time you’re getting dressed, consider wearing something that sends a positive message says the author with a heart of gold, “you never know how much of a difference it might make.”

All photos of Avni Parekh courtesy of Marcos Ventura. Photo of Be The Bigger Person book courtesy of AvniParekh.com. Follow Be The Bigger Person on Instagram via @BTBPbook.

“We’re all going to die, so why not wear something crazy?” says Nicole Daddona, founder and designer of New York–based fashion brand Magic Society. “Wearing something bold is a low-risk way to experience life on another wavelength. I’ve met more people by wearing a bag made out of a blow-up doll than I ever have doing anything else.”

Daddona, also known as Friday, is discussing how bold sartorial choices can connect us to our surroundings. She’s also describing the Judy Bag—a purse literally made from the head of a deadstock blow-up doll—which perfectly epitomizes the surreal, absurd, and humorous pieces that define Magic Society. 

Photo: Adam Wilder

Founded in 2016, Magic Society’s creations are characterized by Daddona as lowbrow high fashion. “To me, that means ‘look at me’ statement pieces that don’t take themselves too seriously,” she says. “I’m a strong believer that fashion should be playful and accessible.” The brand’s offerings include cheeky graphic tees emblazoned with slogans like “Thrift Slut” and “Virgin Who Can’t Drive,” a bikini patterned with ’90s Internet iconography (including the phrase “Welcome to My Homepage!” in an Angelfire-esque font), and a “hand bag”—meaning a purse in the shape of an oversized manicured hand. Up next, Daddona says she is working on an Italian restaurant collection inspired by her many childhood visits to local eateries, plus a desire to “walk around dressed like a tablecloth” in honor of her Italian ancestors.

An incredibly vast range of pop-culture references, from comic books to teen movies, inspire Daddona’s designs. Currently, Abba, Carrie director Brian De Palma, and the concept of retrofuturism (think how ’60s media visualized “the future”) are sparking her creativity. Daddona’s ideas often come to her in the shower, then she ruminates on potential pieces in a routine she calls “somewhat chaotic.” “My creative process looks like me staring into space while lying under a weighted blanket,” she says. “I like to formulate the piece in my mind like a hologram in some old episode of Star Trek.” This step is followed by sketching, which the designer says she usually does on forgotten napkins found in her purse. “Then I take the idea to Procreate, where I draw it up the best that I can before sharing it with my seamstress, who helps bring it into reality.”

The uniqueness of Magic Society is also informed by Daddona’s projects outside of the fashion space. The multihyphenate is a comedian and filmmaker who has worked with studios like Adult Swim, MTV, and Cartoon Network. Not only does Daddona’s movie making influence her distinct style, but it’s also representative of why Magic Society exists in the first place: “We’re all the main characters of our own movie, so why not dress the part?” she says. “Why not make it possible for others to do so, too?”

Top image: Hand Bag, Forest Mushroom Crocheted Hat, Insomniac Sleep Mask, Judy Bag, Pinwheel Sunnies, Plantdaddy Foot Planter (Magic Society)

Last night was the 2023 Met Gala, the annual event that brings together the wealthiest of celebrities to see how well they can stick to a theme. This year’s gala celebrated the life and career of Karl Lagerfeld, the iconic designer with a problematic reputation, known for heading fashion houses Chloe, Fendi and Chanel.

Known for dressing in flamboyant suits with opaque black sunglasses and fingerless gloves, the designer was flashy but he was also mysterious. His personal life was held close to his chest, even throughout his 6+ decade career. Dozens of celebrities attending the gala celebrated Lagerfeld’s iconic designs, but few knew how to honor the man, and not the work. However, a handful of celebrities were able to commemorate something a little more personal– Choupette, Karl Lagerfeld’s beloved cat. 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Choupette Lagerfeld (@choupetteofficiel)

Doja Cat 

Doja Cat is not one to shy away from stand-out outfits. For this year’s met gala, Doja donned a sparkling Oscar de la Renta gown that featured head to toe bead work and a long feathery train. Staying true to her name, Doja feline-afied the outfit with a cat-eared hood and facial prosthetics that gave her a cat-like appearance in the nose, mouth and eyes. She topped it off with a diamond headpiece that rested on her forehead, looking quite a bit like the beloved Choupette’s own facial markings. This was Doja’s first ever Met Gala, and if she can kill the theme like this on her first go, we cannot wait to see how she explores themes over the next several years. 

 

 

 

 

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Jared Leto 

Despite being a total creep, Jared Leto knows how to go all in on a theme. This year he brushed off his furry costume (let’s be real, we know the man has some questionable kinks) and strolled the red carpet as a giant anthropomorphized version of Choupette. The outfit, which was really more of a mascot-like costume, featured Choupette’s signature blue eyes and light cream coloring. Really the only difference is that Leto is nearly six feet tall and Choupette is, well, cat sized. 

 

 

 

 

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Lil Nas X

We don’t want to know how long it took Lil Nas X to get ready for the Met Gala this year. The Grammy Award-winning singer donned head-to-know sparkles in his bare skin, grounded only by a pair of panties. The silver-clad outfit was an absolute show stopper, but it was also a nod to Karl’s feline friend. Nas’ outfit featured a pearlescent mask with little beaded whiskers and a fierce set of feline claws that put the otherwise almost sci-fi outfit on theme. 

 

 

 

 

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Chloe Fineman

Blink and you may miss SNL stunner Chloe Fineman’s homage to Choupette. The star, who looked absolutely stunning in her pink and black Wiederhoeft gown, was already on theme thanks to the camellia flowers that adorned her neckline. The camellia flowers are a symbol of Chanel, and Lagerfeld had the longest tenure at the helm of the brand. If that wasn’t enough, Chloe took an extra step to honor Karl, by carrying her very own petite Choupette in the form of a cat purse. The bag, which was designed by Judith Lieber, featured pink and white gems on a cat form. And in the words of Chloe herself, it was indeed purrrrrrfection! 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Chloe Fineman (@chloeiscrazy)

 Top photo: Photo of Lil Nas X, Doja Cat and Jared Leto from the Met Gala Official instagram, photo of Chloe Fineman from her instagram

The biggest night in fashion has arrived – The Met Gala. Extravagant outfits, high-end designers, and our favorite celebrities dressed to the nines…who could ask for more? The Met Gala  has become one of the most pivotal nights for fashionistas and critics alike. Each year, we eagerly await for the extravagance and specific theme elevating our expectations for the red carpet. This year’s theme, Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty, is a tribute to the late designer’s influence in the fashion industry, including an exhibit of 150 of Lagerfeld’s original sketches and designs. 

This theme has received a lot of controversy – and justifiably so. The German-born couture artist has made several fatphobic, islamophobic, and anti-gay comments. Lagerfeld has become one of the most iconic names in the fashion industry, but his influence is making us wonder if the value of his art outweighs his controversial legacy. Here’s a rundown of some of his most controversial moments, which will probably make you less thrilled about this year’s event. 

“No one wants to see curvy women.”

Lagerfeld said the appalling comment in a 2009 interview with German magazine Focus. The fatphobic remark was in response to another magazine’s attempt to have “real women” in their photos instead of models. He also mocked female readers of a popular German women’s magazine for wanting to see more realistic depictions themselves, saying, “You’ve got fat mothers with their bags of chips, sitting in front of the television, and saying that thin models are ugly.” No Karl, that’s far from what they’re saying. While Lagerfeld had previously been open about his own body issues, that didn’t stop him from continuously mocking body positivity movements. He’s stated how fashion is “the healthiest motivation for losing weight,” and that junk food and television is more dangerous than anorexia. Let’s also not forget when he called Adele “a little too fat,” and later tried to “apologize” to the singer… by saying that the comment was actually for Lana Del Rey.

Anti-Gay Sentiments 

In a 2010 interview with Vice, Lagerfeld stated his disapproval for same-sex marriages, specifically those occurring between two men, “I’m against [gay marriage] for a very simple reason: In the 60’s, they all said we had the right to the difference. And now, suddenly, they want a bourgeois life.” He went on to state how, “For me it’s difficult to imagine: one of the papas at work and the other at home with the baby. How would that be, for the baby? I don’t know. I see more lesbians married with babies than I see boys married with babies.” Later in 2013, Lagerfeld stated how he was “less keen” on same-sex couples having the right to adopt a child. What’s hard to get when two people love each other and decide to begin a family of their own?

Said He Was “Fed Up” With The #MeToo Movement

Lagerfeld has had a large history of misogynistic comments; including his disavow of the #MeToo movement. He claimed he was “fed up” with #MeToo efforts during his 2018 interview with Numéro magazine. “What shocks me the most in all of this are the starlets who have taken 20 years to remember what happened…not to mention the fact that there are no witnesses.” It seems that Lagerfeld didn’t understand (or simply refused to understand) the trauma survivors experience, let alone having to speak on a soul-shattering moment. 

Defended Karl Templer After Sexual Assault Accusations

Karl Templer, one of the fashion industry’s most powerful stylists, received multiple sexual assault allegations back in 2018, and Lagerfeld did not hold back in defending his name. This came at the height of many well-known fashion figures, such as stylists and photographers, receiving sexual misconduct allegations from models who had worked with them previously. In the same 2018 Numéro interview, he stated, “I read somewhere that now you must ask a model if she is comfortable with posing. It’s simply too much; from now on, as a designer, you can’t do anything.” He went on to express his disbelief with sexual allegations, “if you don’t want your pants pulled about, don’t become a model! Join a nunnery; there’ll always be a place for you in the convent. They’re recruiting even!” So essentially, he’s saying that becoming a model makes you an open target for sexual harassment and misconduct…good one, Karl. 

Islamophobic Comments: Muslims Are The “Worst Enemies” For Jews

Lagerfeld has been heavily recognized for cleansing French luxury fashion company, Chanel, of its anti-Semitic, Nazi-filled past, but his large history of Islamophobic remarks are far too concerning to ignore. In a 2017 appearance on a French talk show, he stated that Muslims are the “worst enemies” of the Jewish community. The talk show received complaints after Lagerfeld suggested that one of Germany’s greatest inventions was the Holocaust. He also has expressed his disapproval with his native country Germany’s acceptance of refugees coming from predominantly Muslim countries, defending his outlandish logic that Muslim migrants were “an affront to Holocaust victims”. 

All the Met Gala buzz is normally filled with high-excitement, but this year, many aren’t feeling comfortable with the selected theme. As we live in a century where body positivity is a much-needed movement, we hope that these controversies will be a wake-up call for next year’s event.

Florals for spring? Groundbreaking, as Meryl Streep says sarcastically in The Devil Wears Prada. But when it comes to flower-inspired makeup, it most certainly is, especially if it involves colorful daisies scattered across the eyes. Makeup artist Sydney Szramowski created a “hazy daisy” eye makeup tutorial for BUST readers using products from About-Face Beauty, the makeup brand founded in 2021 by singer/songwriter Halsey. In just a few steps, Szramowski whips up dreamy 1960s daisy makeup with a modern twist.

The key is the Matte Fluid Eye Paint ($16), and Szramowski offers this handy tip when you start creating: “For applying graphic liner, it’s nice when it’s fresh because it’s still super liquidy, and then it dries down to a creamy, matte texture so you have a couple of seconds to play.” Keep reading to learn how to invoke your inner flower child using About-Face products.

Step 1

Apply Shadow Fix Eye Primer ($13) to the lids and let dry. Next, apply light pink Matte Fluid Eye Paint (On Pointe, $16) and paint a wing, starting from the inner corner and extending past the brow.

Step 2

Paint small dots around the eyes using a soft aqua matte (Replicant, $16) to create the pistil, or center of the flower.

Step 3

Paint petals using a thin makeup brush and light green paint (Everything Now, $16). Clean up and define edges with micellar water or moisturizer and a pointed cotton swab.

Step 4

Curl lashes and finish with Volumizing Mascara (Jet Black, $15).

Done!

Photographed by Lee Jameson

Model India Haylee Barton

Makeup by Sydney Szramowski

Hair by Bryanna Jacobs

“Cottagecore” this, “fairycore” that. “Core” trends have skyrocketed in popularity between 2011 and 2022, but the most recent fashion trend is about to take the world by… sea? Mermaidcore is a niche nautical aesthetic that’s starting to make huge waves in the fashion community. When Mermaidcore began gaining traction online in late 2021, it was an underground micro-aesthetic with few followers. Now, it’s been embraced by the mainstream—including top designers—, and continues to gain massive popularity both on and off social media. But where did the style originate, and how can you recreate it this summer?

What is Mermaidcore?

Mermaidcore is categorized by iridescent hues, puka shells, and scale-like textures. The look was seen on several runways for the 2021 SS season such as Versace’s whimsically nautical pieces. Pieces from Iris Van Herpen’s Spring/Summer 2021 collection, “Roots of Rebirth,” and the 2023 collection “Carte Blanche” prioritize water-like textures, cool tones, and extravagant translucent ruffles, all of which combined resemble a chic yet lovecraftian sea creature.

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Iris van Herpen Official (@irisvanherpen)

Mermaidcore was later popularized by Tiktok in the summer of 2022, and arose out of growing interest in lesser-known Y2K styles, like “Sea Punk” and “whimsigoth” (although most of us who were around back then just called it “Boho Chic” or “Indie”). Flowy fabrics, iridescent hues, and accessories that are either made of or resemble seaglass, shells, waves, and/or sand are characteristics of Mermaidcore. But it’s not a new trend; it takes a lot of inspiration from early 2000s surfer aesthetics popularized by media like Aquamarine, Zoey 101, and H20: Just Add Water (the tail in Aquamarine was actually designed to look like lowrise jeans!) Other popular 2000s brands like Roxy, Billabong, and Hollister, cemented the Y2K surfer girl vibes that would eventually set the stage for Mermaidcore, (perfectly detailed in the style retrospective; How the ‘00s Surfer Girl Got A Modern Makeover.) 

(aquamarine, 2006) sara paxton being glued into her mermaid tail, the process took 2 hours and the tail was inspired by low rise jeans. pic.twitter.com/PQDQ3fMfoS

— popcultureangel (@lohanisgod) November 30, 2022

How to Achieve the “Mermaidcore” Look

Mermaidcore is a surprisingly simple look to recreate yourself using things that you likely already have in your wardrobe. Focus on mixing scaly or wet-look textures (like vinyl, faux snake skin, or PVC) with airy, cream-colored bardot tops and shell-like bras. Other colors, like pastels, shimmery pinks, and sandy brown or cream components are unexpected, but work well with the sea creature vibes.  

If the characteristics of Mermaidcore call out to you, but flowy and seafoam green isn’t really your style, try switching it up! Channel your inner siren with an emerald green trench coat, or pair it with an edgy bodycon skirt in a deep sea blue, like this one from Topshop. Those popular surfer brands from the early 2000s? They still exist, and are a hotbed for Mermaidcore pieces. Pacsun’s Festival Shop is full of translucent sets, and pearl necklaces that would make Ariel proud. 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by pacsun (@pacsun)

Mermaidcore is the perfect example of a micro-aesthetic: it’s got a clear set of “rules” (look like a Mermaid, duh!), yet the trend isn’t so niche that it’s hard to understand or recreate on your own. It’s making a huge splash, so if you want to stay ahead of the trends, you might want to run to your nearest Michaels and pick up a bag of loose shells. If you were the kind of kid that wanted to live under the sea, you’d probably “go coastal” for this sea-friend fashion trend. 

Photo by Adobe/K8most

Gorgeous GLOW goddess Sunita Mani, star of the upcoming horror flick Wilder Than Her, slays in the season’s boldest looks.

Moschino Dress, Hat, Earrings, and Bracelet.

Aliétte Dress and Jacket; Aquazzura Heels.

Ferragamo Shirt and Pants.

Marni Top and Pants; Tuza Jewelry Earrings.

Aliétte Dress and Jacket.

Et Ochs Dress and Gloves.

Puppets and Puppets Jacket and Skirt.

Moschino Dress, Earrings, Bracelet, and Shoes. Fashion Assistants: Zhané Norman and Cierra Dreslinski

Photographer: Nadya Wasylko; Stylist: Marisa Ellison @ Art Dept; Makeup: Theo Kogan @ Art Dept; Hair: Amy Farid @ Honey Artists; Sets: Lisa Lee @ Laird & Good Company

Imagine reliving your teen years and all the questionable outfits that came with it. That’s sort of what Drew Barrymore does in 1999’s Never Been Kissed, in which she plays Josie, a reporter who goes undercover at her old high school to break a story and reclaim her awkward teen years at the same time. Costume designer Mona May helped Barrymore’s character sartorially evolve from a try-hard fashion victim into someone confidently owning her own style. The result? Colorful cardigans, bright baby tees, and daisy-themed jewelry that’ll make you feel like the head of the class. 

Cider Curve & Plus Two-Tone Button Up Floral Faux Pearl Cardigan, $34

Talking Out Of Turn Somewhere Tote—In The Groove, $60

Pretties OG Baby Tee in Fuchsia, $55

‘60s Daisy Chain Flower Power Earrings, $16.99

Flower Beauty Petal Pout Lip Color in Bright Peony, $8

Swedish Hasbeens T-Strap High In Nature, $290

Top image: From Fox 2000 Pictures

In celebration of Transgender Day of Visibility, Lizzo announced that her groundbreaking shapewear line, Yitty, is expanding to include gender-affirming garments including binders and tucking bottoms. 

These garments are designed to help trans, non-binary, gender-fluid, gender non-conforming communities, and people of all feel gender identities affirmed in their clothing, and their body, as they move through the world in the way that makes them feel like their authentic selves. 

The line is called “Your Skin,” which is set to be released sometime this summer. Like the Yitty Shapewear line launched last year, Your Skin will be available through Fabletics, in a wide range of sizing options. In an instagram live video, Lizzo shared why creating this line was so important to her. 

“People are looking for something they can’t find,” she explains in the video. “I was taking meetings with people that didn’t believe that this was a necessary category (of shapewear) and I said it’s even more of a reason to do something about this! People are still buying girdles, and they don’t need to go through the torture that they’re putting themselves through.” 

Shaheem Anderson, one of the models in the campaign, wrote in an instagram post: 

“How cool that FINALLY a mainstream brand like Yitty will be selling BINDERS & TUCKING BOTTOMS!!! It’s one thing to be included in a campaign, but to be in a campaign that could potentially make a difference in someone’s life and affirm how they feel on the inside means the world!”

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by ??????? (@lookatmyfrecklz)

The announcement has been met with a flood of positive feedback. Several trans and non-binary social media users have responded to the campaign, sharing the reasons they look forward to trying the products.  

Your song “My skin” saved my life many years ago. I’m grateful that your music continues to heal me through my transition. Accessibility saves lives. This is what it means to be an ally.

“I’m not the girl I was or used to be, bitch I might be better!”

Trans rights!

— (((anxious M))) (@KuzyBeCackling) March 30, 2023

 In another instagram post, Lizzo shares, “I’ve watched countless videos of people crafting their own garments to wrap or tuck their bodies so their body can truly feel like theirs. I’ve heard people talk about their preference of wanting to be fluid in how they want to present their bodies depending on their mood or style of clothing. And I wanted to help. Your feedback is not only valuable but a necessity to us. Because we do this for You. Every Damn Body. Xoxo Lizzo”

Gender-confirming undergarment or clothing reconstructions have informally existed for a long time. Practices like binding, packing, tucking, or padding can help people adjust their appearance to match their gender expression. However, most of these practices are uncomfortable, and sometimes dangerous, to use for long periods of time. Having products that can be purchased just for this purpose opens doors of possibility (and comfort) for thousands of trans or non-binary people. 

All photos courtesy of Yitty

If you have been searching looks to spice-up your Spring style, look no further. From accessories to body care, here are five bits on fashion products we dig for this new season.

Magnificent Millinery

Aussie hatmaker Elleni Canaris pairs flamboyance with practicality through her heart-shaped sun hats and spaghetti-and-meatball-themed berets. She never fails to make a bad-hair day fun.

Spring Eternal

Allison Termine’s metal-cast jewelry brand, All Mine, makes spring last forever. Her poppy line is made from real seed pods that come in silver, gold, and brass. Latest creations include a metal armor shoe pendant and customizable banner necklaces. DM her on Instagram for orders.

All Lacquered Up

Doing my nails has always been one of my favorite ways to creatively express myself, which is why I love the empowering ethos behind the genderless, nontoxic polish brand Liberation Nails, founded by Staci Morris. The neon pink Chroma ($18) is an instant mood-lifter.

Supporting Character

Wearing “boob tape” never really occurred to me unless I was going to a formal event, but Nue, founded by Stephanie Montes, changed all of that. Waterproof, sweatproof, hypoallergenic, and available in four skin-tone colorways, Nue’s breast tape ($25) comfortably supports my D-cups whether I’m wearing a T-shirt or a cutout dress.

Glow Like The Moon

I prefer my beauty products to have a touch of witchiness to them. Fat and the Moon, a body and skincare brand founded by herbalists Rachel Budde, is centered around hand-crafted body-care products that use age-old, effective ingredients. Favorites include Moon Milk ($30), a creamy coconut cleanser, and Bod Cleanse body wash ($22).

Top image: Breast Tape (Nue), Chroma (Liberation Nails), Moon Milk (Fat and the Moon), All Mine, Ruffle Heart Hat (Elleni the Label)

Rue is a Wales-based influencer and disability visibility in fashion advocate. She shares her vintage-inspired looks on instagram @rubyrouxbijou. 

What was the inspiration behind these two looks?

I have loved fashion throughout history, and I like to feel beautiful. This vintage ’50s blue tulle dress is just such a fairy-tale piece. The purse reminds me of 1930s boudoir beauty; the shoes are just princess shoes!

The linen-trousers-and-waistcoat look has a very ’30s Bonnie Parker feel to it but with a modern twist, as I’ve worn it quite unconventionally. And of course, the pièce de résistance: my glittery gold-flecked walking stick. Having a mobility aid that is also beautiful is such a big deal and helps break down stigmas surrounding disability.

How would you describe your personal style?

I would describe it as an eclectic mix of old and new, bright and beautiful, and bringing big disabled energy.

Who is your all-time favorite style icon? 

It has to be Vivienne Westwood. She was fiercely unafraid to do her own thing.

What role (if any) do you think your disability plays in your personal style?

My disability plays a huge role. I used to be so embarrassed to be seen using walking sticks in my late 20s, as my inner ableism made me feel like it was something I should be ashamed of. I had those ugly gray hospital-issue walking sticks and crutches, and they just aren’t it. Then I found an amazing company run by a disabled woman who makes all these beautiful walking sticks, and it helped me become more confident using mobility aids in public. I collect them like fashion accessories now. I stopped trying to hide or blend in and started dressing for the sheer joy of it. It’s a big part of my identity!

What are the thoughts behind your personal expression in your sense of fashion?

Disabled people are fashionable, too! We make up 15 to 18 percent of the population but are often forgotten or overlooked. I’ve been working with amazing independent brands who work hard to make a difference ethically, and they want to see equality in fashion. We need more visible representation out there.

Copy Cat

Learn the art of dressing for sheer joy 

 Lisou Belle Metallic Lamé Tiered Dress, $480, lisou.co.uk.

Ana Nevi Goz Nuru Bag in Pearl Blush, $317, ananevi.com.

Charlotte Stone Paz Clog Boot in Lilac, $284, charlotte-stone.com.

Bagtazo Party Hat, $110, bagtazocollection.com.

Emmy The Gentlewoman Waistcoat in Cream Herringbone Linen, $125, emmydesign.se.

L.O.M. Forest of Dreams Layered Chaps,$149, lomfashion.co.uk.

All non-product photos are courtesy of Rue

This article originally appeared in the Spring 2023 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today!

Hike up your ‘90s Levis – social media users are in a heated debate concerning the ethics of reselling thrifted clothes online. Reselling, or “thrift flipping,” particularly on the app Depop, has been wrought with controversy for years, but the discourse has been re-ignited since one seller posted a now viral “thrift haul” video on TikTok. 

@jbwells2

the first jacket is everything

♬ original sound – Jack

 Jack (@jbwells2), who posted the video that has garnered nearly 6 million views, runs the online store Jack’s Vntg on the Depop app; Much of her TikTok feed features “try-on hauls,” where she puts on and styles recently thrifted pieces that will later be put up for sale – at a price point much higher than what she purchased these items for. Given that search suggestions include “jbwells controversy,” “jbwells is a bad person,” and “jbwells overconsumption” when you look up her TikTok profile, many are questioning the ethics of Jack’s business practices. 

Words like “greedy” and “scalper” have been thrown around. Some have gone so far as to compare resellers like Jack to landlords who buy out and flip properties in lower-income areas, like this Twitter user who referred to reselling as “the gen z version of being a landlord.” 

being a depop reseller is like the gen z version of being a landlord. in this essay i will

— mother earth? (@nonbinarybooty) February 18, 2023

 While users have criticized this comparison for its lack of nuance, the conversation conflating the “flipping” practices of clothing and real estate isn’t new. Since at least 2020, journalists and social media users alike have shared the opinion that thrift flipping is a smaller-scale aspect of gentrification, wherein lower-income people are pushed out of access to resources due to wealthier individuals moving in on those resources. Prices at thrift stores have gone up in recent years, at least in part due to the increasing popularity of secondhand shopping and reselling – the secondhand fashion market is projected to be twice the size of fast fashion by 2030 – and some are worried that this shift is making affordable second-hand clothing less accessible to low-income people who rely on it.

resellers can act like hustlers and girl bosses and all that shit all they want but they have to live with the fact that they r the reason that so many ppl in poverty can barely even afford to shop at the places that were created to be accessible to them in the first place. pic.twitter.com/1s4JWiKj3M

— zoe ⭑ (@scenedoII) December 29, 2020

 The argument that bulk-buying and reselling thrifted clothing online takes away resources from low-income individuals is somewhat buffeted by the fact that there is actually an excess of clothing being donated to thrift stores, and much of that clothing is still ending up in landfills. Last year, in since-deleted TikTok videos, Jack addressed criticisms from users calling out her “overconsumption,” saying that she’s seen truckloads of clothes dropped off at her local Goodwill. “There are more clothes being donated than can be sold,” she said. “While the demand resellers have for thrifted items is high right now, it’s still not higher than the supply of thrifted clothing.” Following the most recent backlash, Jack reiterated this sentiment in an Instagram caption, writing “Where i live, there are 20 goodwills. All overflowing, all restocking hourly, and all sending truckloads of excess clothing to the bins. It’s terrifying to see the amount of clothing going to waste, while fast fashion continues to pollute and abuse their workers.”

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by JACK’S VNTG (@jacksvntg)

 There is no question that the clothing industry, particularly fast fashion (think Forever 21 and SHEIN), is extremely wasteful and damaging to the environment. The garment industry is the second biggest polluter on the planet behind oil, contributing 10 percent of global carbon emissions. 85 percent of all clothing in the U.S. is burned or ends up in landfills, and the average American throws away 81 pounds of clothing per year. For these reasons, supporters of Jack and other resellers argue that reselling popularizes secondhand clothing over fast fashion, possibly relieving some of the fashion industry’s wastefulness. Venetia La Manna, a fair fashion campaigner, told BuzzFeed that, “A lot of these people that we’re getting annoyed about for thrifting and then jacking up the prices on Depop, these are predominantly young women who are ultimately not doing anything that harmful. They’re not working for Amazon or Shein. This isn’t an influencer using an affiliate link to get you to buy from Nasty Gal or Revolve. They’re not forcing you to buy anything.”

Even so, further criticism of Jack and her online store fueled debate as to whether or not the practice of reselling thrifted items online for profit counts as “real work,” with one Twitter referring to Jack’s – and many other resellers’ – business model as “inconsiderate exploitation.”

buying clothes at an affordable price and reselling them for triple is not “work”. that’s inconsiderate exploitation ? https://t.co/TlSXnwTSxt

— ʝօʀɖռ’ֆ աօʀʟɖ? (@jordnsworld) February 22, 2023

 Aja Barber, a fashion consultant who writes about sustainable fashion, argued that the curation that goes into running a shop like Jack’s is hard work, and isn’t as easy and glamorous as critics seem to think. “The problem with not respecting and acknowledging the labor of others is rife in our society but ESPECIALLY in the conversation about fashion,” she wrote. “It is there when people expect unreasonably low prices for clothes. It’s there when people get mad at resellers.”

The problem with not respecting and acknowledging the labor of others is rife in our society but ESPECIALLY in the conversation about fashion. It is there when people expect unreasonably low prices for clothes. It’s there when people get mad at resellers. It’s there for my work.

— Aja Barber (@AjaSaysHello) February 23, 2023

 Barber also made the point that, “the vast majority of people do not know the labor that goes into sourcing clothing for resale,” and that “[she] couldn’t do it for a living, which means that if a reseller finds something that [she] like[s], [she] is happy to pay for their labor.” She went on to explain that “resellers can tell you some stories. Miscellaneous stains. Dirty underpants. Dirty diapers. It’s not for the faint of heart.”

Other supporters of Jack pointed out that what she does for a living is not new or any different than what antique and vintage stores have been doing for decades.

If you think it’s unethical to go to thrift stores, buy stuff you recognize as more valuable, and resell it, then I have bad news for you about how literally every vintage/antique store operates

— Louisa ?? (@LouisatheLast) February 22, 2023

 Jack says that, since starting Jack’s Vntg at the age of 16 when she was living on her own, thrifting and reselling is how she could afford to get through college. In her Instagram post, she writes, “like most resellers, i am not rich. I grew up thrifting and relying on secondhand clothing.” She goes on to explain that she started Jack’s Vntg with “$100 to [her] name” and that it is the reason she was able to “pay [her] bills, eat, and survive on [her] own as an 18 year old.” 

The online debate concerning the ethics of thrifting and reselling continues, and given the nature of internet discourse, likely won’t be going away anytime soon, but many supporters of the practice echo Jack’s sentiment that, “Reselling pushes circular fashion, sustainable consumption, and helps low income individuals earn a living wage off of endless clothing.”

Top Photo: Screengrab from TikTok

For at least the last century of fashion history, fishnet stockings have been synonymous with edgy, yet undoubtedly feminine expressions of sexuality that challenge the status quo. I can recall being a wannabe Goth pre-teen in the early ‘00s when I was stopped by my mother as I was leaving the house in a pair because they made me look too “grown up.” A few short years later, I noticed fishnets worn casually by women all around town as they became a mainstream fashion staple for adding a touch of sex appeal and edginess to any old outfit. Their popularity certainly hasn’t dwindled since – and they’ve been a fashion staple for much longer than you may think.

One of the earliest references to fishnet as clothing, published in the early 1900s, appears in the Aesop’s fable, “The Peasant’s Wise Daughter,” in which the titular peasant’s daughter is promised to a king if she can solve his riddle: “Come to me not clothed, not naked, not riding.” She returns to the king wrapped in a fisherman’s net. Perhaps this idea of wearing fishnet as being “not clothed, not naked” set the precedent for fishnet stockings to become a way of “teasing” sexuality.

Fishnet stockings saw their first boom in popularity during the Roaring ‘20s, as they were all the rage with flappers and showgirls alike. Showgirls favored the style as they were more revealing than the standard opaque stockings of the time and allowed for ease of movement while dancing. For the same reasons, fishnet stockings were often seen on flappers sporting newly-popular styles of dresses with shorter hemlines than had ever been socially acceptable before. As women’s dresses got shorter, fishnets covered just enough, but not too much. These women, embracing an era of liberation, spent time in nightclubs unchaperoned by men, kicking off the still-standing association of fishnet tights with the promiscuity of nightlife. 

As they were worn by showgirls for the way they showed skin and enhanced curves, fishnets became well-loved by burlesque performers and pin-up girls in the following decades. In the ‘30s and ‘40s, burlesque dancer Gypsy Rose Lee often rocked fishnets during her performances. Shortly thereafter, with the rise of pin-up and print porn in the 1950s, fishnet stockings were seen on such iconic sex symbols as Bettie Page and Jayne Mansfield. The ‘50s also saw fishnets becoming a hallmark of old Hollywood glamor, as they were worn by actresses Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn, and Marilyn Monroe. As skirt hems got shorter throughout the following decade, women played with the amount of skin they showed by wearing multicolored fishnets under miniskirts.  

 

 

 

 

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 The 1970s and ‘80s introduced fishnet tights and tops as an essential component of punk and Goth aesthetics, which are now as trendy as ever. 1975’s Rocky Horror Picture Show put nearly every character in fishnets, but most important to the style’s ever-growing association with deviant sexuality was the way they were rocked by Tim Curry’s gender-bending mad scientist, Dr. Frank-N-Furter. The aesthetics of Rocky Horror went hand-in-hand with the growing popularity of punk in the fashion world. The late Vivienne Westwood – iconic designer, outfitter of the Sex Pistols, and arguably the mother of punk as a recognizable fashion statement – often incorporated fishnets in her edgy, androgynous stylings. In the interest of further subverting the norms of gender, sexuality, and fashion, punk and post-punk musicians and fans took it up a notch by tearing holes in their fishnets. The more extreme, distressed look of torn fishnets took a longstanding symbol of feminine sexuality and gave it an even greater rebellious flair, most notably seen on post-punk singer and Goth icon Siouxsie Sioux. While the alternative subcultures that adored fishnet were booming, particularly in the UK, it was legendary pop star Madonna that brought the style even further into the mainstream by rocking fishnet gloves, tank tops, undershirts, stockings, and even full bodysuits in her videos and live performances.

 

 

 

 

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 While the ‘70s and ‘80s were, essentially, the “golden age” for fishnet’s popularity, especially as it related to music-based subcultures, ‘90s grunge incorporated the rebellious attire in its own way. Courtney Love wore torn fishnet stockings in a unique way that juxtaposed her babydoll slips, Peter Pan collars, and Mary Jane shoes. This deliberate combination of a rugged, rock ‘n’ roll aesthetic with a girlishly innocent, almost childlike one was the foundation of the fashion movement known as “kinderwhore,” popularized by Love. The kinderwhore aesthetic made an ultimately feminist statement, as it exaggerated the look of traditional and “innocent” femininity in a way that mocked and criticized it. 

 

 

 

 

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Fishnet tights have characterized many trend cycles in more recent history, from the flannel-obsessed “soft grunge” style popularized on Tumblr in the early 2010s to the pastel-goth anime-inspired “E-girl” aesthetic made famous by TikTok. They’ve become more of a street style staple than ever before since the late 2010s, according to Vogue. The way fishnets are worn by mall rats and haute couture-lovers alike in the modern day is an amalgamation of the style’s extensive history and ever-evolving connotations. Fishnets now can be both feminine and androgynous, sexy and understated, cute and edgy. The lasting – and growing – popularity of fishnets today might be indicative of Gen Z’s rebellion against traditional gender expectations when it comes to fashion. Regardless of why they’re worn, it’s clear that fishnets will never go out of style, especially for those who relish in challenging the norm. 

Photo by Artem Labunsky on Unsplash

Sustainable beauty is more than a trendy buzzword. Self-care is a priority for many, but so is caring how the things we use and consume might adversely affect the world. Thankfully, makeup and skincare brands are taking note, turning to locally sourced ingredients and recyclable and refillable packaging to reduce their carbon footprint. The cosmetics industry produces 120 billion units of packaging each year, so buying from brands that consciously design and use recyclable and refillable containers can still have a huge impact.

“We are in a global environmental crisis,” says Christin Powell, cofounder and CEO of skincare brand Kinship. “The personal care and beauty industry is a huge source of plastic refuse—most of which is not truly recyclable and a lot of which ends up in our oceans and landfills.” Kinship uses recycled ocean plastic and post-consumer recycled materials and is on track to use 100 percent recycled plastic or glass packaging by 2023. To date, Kinship has removed over six tons of plastic from the ocean by employing local fishing communities in and around the Java Sea. The brand’s formulas are also largely plant-based and biodegradable.

For makeup brand Axiology, sustainability means transitioning from a linear economy (make thing, use thing, put thing in trash) to a circular economy (make thing with recycled materials, use thing, put anything you didn’t use in compost or recycling bin). “The goal is to mimic nature—to make sure nothing ends up in landfills, incinerators, or the ocean, and can be reused in some fashion,” says Axiology founder Ericka Rodriguez. Axiology’s top sustainable product is a multiuse face crayon called Balmies, which has zero-waste packaging that’s both recyclable and compostable.

Sustainability drives many new brands, but it’s also being embraced by legacy brands such as Shiseido. “This year alone we have introduced two new sustainability innovations from the brand—our Refills and the new WASO collection,” says Jessie Dawes, vice president, integrated marketing strategy and consumer engagement for Shiseido. The eight-piece WASO collection combines Shiseido’s scientific innovations with locally sourced Japanese ingredients and packaging made from upcycled rice husk recycled plastic and Forest Stewardship Council–certified paper. Portions of WASO sales are donated to Shikuwasa farmers in Okinawa, Japan, with the goal of planting 3,000 trees by 2024. Shiseido is also engaged in the development of alternative and biodegradable polymer plastics, and they say that’s just the beginning. “We’re expanding our use of biodegradable materials for cases and packaging while pursuing biomass-based materials, which emit less CO2 than petroleum-derived materials,” says Dawes.

With more brands using eco-friendly materials and ingredients and implementing refill and recycling programs, there’s hope that beauty will become a more sustainable-minded industry overall. 

Perhaps one of the most interesting and creative styles to come out of the internet-era is “Y’allternative”, which as the name implies, combines dark, alternative fashion inspired by Goth and punk with Old Western sensibilities. Envision an otherwise Wednesday Addams-esque outfit accessorized with a cowboy hat and boots, a bolo tie, and the sort of belt typically worn with a pair of classic Wranglers. Other common themes in outfits considered “Y’allternative” include dark colors, fringe, flashy belt buckles, and cowboy iconography such as lassos and horses.

As a TikTok trend, “Y’allternative” has become a way for those who have historically been ostracized from and oppressed by archetypical “country” culture to embrace who they are while tapping into the roots of their upbringing as working-class people in the American South and West. 

@hillbillygothic #stitch with @camrudwaffle okay sweetheart #yallternative #lgbt ♬ original sound – Clover-Lynn

Despite its working-class leftist roots (looking at you, Woody Guthrie!), country music and the culture affiliated with it has become dominated by white, upper-middle-class men who subscribe to conservative beliefs; at least, that’s what modern stereotypes indicate. Under the “Y’allternative” tag on TikTok, however, you can find alternative leftists and members of the LGBTQ+ community, often clad in all-black, reclaiming the music, style, and culture they grew up with. Perhaps one of the greatest examples is TikTok user and banjo master Clover-Lynn (@hillbillygothic), who uses her platform to share the history of women and Black people in country music, her experience as an alternative woman raised in working-class Appalachian culture, and plays jaw-dropping bluegrass solos over cringe-worthy rants from conservative men. 

@hillbillygothic #duet with @kai.clips sorry i had to get some practice in #lgbtq #feminism #banjo #fypシ #queer ♬ original sound – Tik Toker

“Y’allternative” is a catchy Gen-Z term for the subculture referred to as “Gothic Western,” which isn’t all that new. In the 1940s and ‘50s, Western flicks were at their peak popularity, and post-war disillusionment with the American Dream and patriotism created an inevitable meshing of the Western with the grim and macabre in popular culture. As is the case with other alternative styles, namely Goth and punk, the style’s roots lie in music. Perhaps the first and most notable “Gothic Western” or “Y’allternative” icon was Johnny Cash. Between his manner of dress, dark subject matter in his music, and the fact that he covered songs by newer alternative artists such as Soundgarden and Nine Inch Nails as a country musician, the Man in Black perfectly exemplified the Gothic cowboy image and lifestyle. 

Since Cash, darker, alternative subgenres of classic American folk and country have become more prominent. Many alt-country artists have exploded in popularity in recent years, in large part due to their creative meshing of old-school country, folk, and bluegrass with dark themes such as violent crime, substance abuse, and witchcraft, in the case of Amigo the Devil and Bridge City Sinners, and embracing LGBTQ+ identities, in the case of Orville Peck. The “Y’allternative” fashion is a physical manifestation of how those who have been excluded from or disillusioned by modern country-western culture are reclaiming it in a way that is inclusive, ever-evolving, and spooky – both in terms of aesthetic and in terms of the conservative reaction to its popularity. 

If you find yourself balancing the line of country and rock ‘n’ roll in personality, style, and music taste, here’s some key pieces to help you achieve the “Y’allternative” look. 

 

 

 

 

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7 Bar Boutique Cowhide Fringe Jacket, $315

 

 

 

 

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 Embroidery Spider Webs Mid-Calf Boots in Black, $54.99

 

 

 

 

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 Friends of Hell Black Leather Fringe Bag, $214.56

 

 

 

 

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 ShopTinaVilla Mojave Mama Bralette, $240

 

 

 

 

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TinkerToyTomorrow Chunky Chainmaille Concho Necklace, $156

Top Photo by pawel szvmanski on Unsplash

In recent weeks a famous TikTok content creator, Danielle Athena, has been facing backlash for a video of her going through her hair-care routine that was taken down after it went viral in early December. In the video, she uses Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil, on her untextured hair, when the product was intended for people with texturized hair. 

The brand Mielle Organics has been a female-black-owned business since 2014, selling hundreds of products catering to people with different textures of hair based on African American hair types, with type 3-4 hair (hair patterns between wavy and coily). There are a lot of brands out there that do not market to specific genders and races, so having Athena recommend the product for a hair type that it was not originally intended for had others concerned about the future of the product and the future of Black hair brands. 

Although the video was in favor of using the product by adopting it into her routine, the video was still taken down. Gojo’s baby mama reposted it on Twitter with the caption “White women steal from black women and just be doing shit. and of course she turned those comments off” 

White women steal from black women and just be doing shit. and of course she turned those comments off pic.twitter.com/BBlrpFUyrJ

— Gojo’s baby mama (@aprettyPR) January 2, 2023

Gojo’s baby mama and others were concerned that white people might be so interested in the product that it would make it harder for others to gain access, that companies might increase prices due to interest, or that possible formula changes might occur if there are so many complaints from those using the product who it isn’t intended for (let’s say people with type 1 or 2 hair, which is thin or straight hair with not much visible bend to the hair who use a product made for type 3 or 4 hair).

Professor Uju Anya replied in the same thread that the haircare brand Shea Moisture had been “chasing white money”. This brand was one of many that changed its formula to cater to people with untextured hair as it gained more popularity. The idea of product formula changes within black hair care products is not foreign to black hair communities. Shea Moisture is a similar brand offering hair care and skin products to Black consumers that seemingly changed its formula to support the needs of white customers.

Morgan Jerkins, author of The Whitewashing of Natural Hair Care Lines discovered at a beauty expo that “in 2015, Nikki Walton, founder and head of content for CurlyNikki.com, wrote a blog post questioning if Shea Moisture changed the formula of its curl-enhancing smoothie because glycerin, not water, was its first ingredient.” This was just the start until other bloggers like Tyisha Scott started crafting reports, making the community aware of the changes and where they were rooting from.

Shea Moisture responded to the numerous reports on a Facebook post, “We share the same concerns, disappointment and angst that our community has every time our support helps to grow a business and it forgets its roots. Rest assured, we will never forget our roots and we will always hold up our community.” You can read the brand’s entire statement here.

Black women have legitimate reasons to side eye white folks “discovering” Mielle hair oil. When brands BW single-handedly kept afloat start chasing white money, they raise prices, change formulas, and erase BW from their image. Remember this disrespectful shit from Shea Moisture? pic.twitter.com/qpJJAlJtQ7

— Uju Anya (@UjuAnya) January 3, 2023

 People with texturized hair all know the struggles of having wavy or curly hair. We can remember in our younger years standing in the hair care aisle frustrated about not finding the product that we needed or not even knowing what products would work with our hair – even though we have more options now this can still happen to this day. There is a feeling of hopelessness with any hair care journey. It can take a long time to find the right product, and when someone does find it they cherish it like gold. 

Shortly after the new year, Monique Rodriguez (CEO of Mielle Organics) issued a statement on the company’s Instagram. “There have been a few recent comments posted on this topic, but I can personally guarantee you that we are not making any ingredient changes. I also wanted to come here first to assure you directly that we have no plans to change the formula for Rosemary Mint Oil or any of our products. Please know that we would always inform you in full transparency if any adjustments are made to the products you love and trust.” 

 

 

 

 

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Hopefully, brands like Mielle Organics hold true to their promise, as there are so many people who have put all of their trust in them.

At the tender age of 80, Betsey Johnson has lived a life many of us can only dream of. She’s built a legendary career out of kitsch, eschewing the minimalist motifs favored by some of her fashion industry colleagues for funky prints, an unabashed celebration of extreme girlishness, and the tendency to close her runway shows with her signature cartwheel and splits. Still, one has to wonder if Johnson was ever tempted to submit to the status quo. “I never feel pressure to conform,” Johnson says. “I am proud of who I am, and what my designs represent: Free spirit!” Joie de vivre has always been apparent in Johnson’s designs, from the silver lamé looks she designed in the 1960s (“Edie Sedgwick was always such a big fan of them!”) to the frilly tulle dresses that any “Betsey girl” from the ‘90s and aughts (and now) would be lucky to wear to prom. 

It’s no argument that Johnson’s innate sense of playfulness and wonder is maximalist fashion at its core. Though flamboyant dressing is not a new concept by any means, it has been more embraced in recent years, thanks to an auspicious convergence of post-lockdown dressing, trend cycling, and the Y2K revival. But Betsey Johnson and her colorful designs have always been in vogue. Johnson believes that the current focus on flamboyant fashion is due to a hunger for optimism. “Kitschy fashion makes people feel good and joyful,” she says. “The world can be a rough place, and wearing bright, over-the-top colors just brings you excitement to take on the day. Color is an emotional thing, and people need uplifting right now. That’s why color is so important!”

Photo by Amanda LopezNot everything has been cartwheels and rainbows in Betsey Johnson’s life. Her company declared bankruptcy in 2012, shuttering 60-plus stores around the country. (Steve Madden now owns the Betsey Johnson brand, where she still serves as creative director.) Johnson is also a breast cancer survivor. But she’s always kept on. “When you hit a low point, whether in life or your career, pushing through it is really all about staying positive, and for me, remembering how lucky I am to be able to do what I love every single day, even when it gets tough. I always surround myself with people and things that I love that bring me true happiness and joy – and that is how I persevere!”

Photo by Amanda LopezThese days, Johnson finds joy in the little things, like her favorite red lipstick (Nars Powermatte Lip Pigment in Don’t Stop), listening to Miles Davis and John Coltrane, who her boyfriend introduced her to (“I love it! I’ve never been into jazz, but something about it feels right for right now”), lounging at her home in Mexico, and spending time with loved ones on her new pink-and-white fishing boat, which is called “The Betsey Boat,” naturally. Johnson says she feels the most inspired when she’s surrounded by those she loves, and vice versa, but if she ever feels stuck creatively, she knows to just look around and wait. “Eventually, you see something, because you aren’t looking for it. That is where the magic happens and it sparks a whole new idea,” she says. “When your eyes and heart are wide open, the inspiration always comes back.” –Marie Lodi

Top Photo by Amanda Lopez

This article originally appeared in the Winter 22/23 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today!

Meet some of the beauty and fashion creators keeping us inspired this winter.

Pull Up for Change: Supporting Black Founders

Photo: Sharon ChuterWhen it comes to revolutionizing the beauty industry, no one is doing it like Sharon Chuter. In the past two years, the Uoma Beauty CEO and founder launched Pull Up for Change, which calls on corporations to be transparent and hire more Black people in leadership roles, and Make It Black, which partners with beauty brands to support Black founders through impact funds. 

Rachel Burke Makes Tinsel Timeless

Photo: Rachel BurkeCraft materials get transformed into whimsical couture in the world of Rachel Burke (@imakestagram). The artist and designer makes fanciful pom-pom dresses and pipe-cleaner crowns, but she is especially known for her tinsel jackets, which instantly turn any occasion into a party. 

Dressing Like the Movies with Vixeixen by Micheline PittPhoto: Micheline Pitt

Clothing designer and artist Micheline Pitt partners with film studios to create wearable nostalgia through her fashion brands Vixen by Micheline Pitt and La Femme en Noir. Think retro-style clothing that goes up to size 4X and is inspired by childhood film favorites like Ghostbusters, Edward Scissorhands, Beetlejuice (seen here), and Sleepy Hollow. 

Wonderful Wigs

Photo: Brooke HansenWigs can be more than just fake hair; they’re also works of art, especially the ones by wig artist Annie Hardt (@anniehardt.wigs). She makes elaborate hair sculptures that resemble everything from cacti to high heels to ocean waves, or have secret compartments where you can hide a glass of wine. Marie Antoinette is so jealous right now. – M.L.

Skincare Smackdown 

Photo: Jessica DeFinoJessica DeFino might be a controversial beauty culture critic (she claims skincare is a scam), but it makes me kind of love her, and her newsletter, The Unpublishable, even more. Recent editions excoriated Joe Jonas for being the new face of a Botox alternative (quoting Audre Lorde in the process) and offered a breakdown of the beauty brands backing abortion bans. – Lisa Butterworth

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Winter 2022-2023 print edition. Subscribe today!

Top images: Sharon Chuter, Rachel Burke, Jessica DeFino

Whether you’re road tripping to see family or leavin’ on a jet plane for vacay, packing your stuff and then lugging it around can be stressful. But having the right luggage changes everything. Here are our picks for the most stylish luggage sets to help you travel like a pro.

Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board

This is the lightest carry-on in the world, legit—it weighs only 3.9 pounds! Even loaded up with 360-degree spinner wheels and a TSA-approved lock, it’s the definition of “traveling light.” Carry-On Light, $245, july.com.

Lavender in the Air

The wheels on this baby fro Away do a full 360, making zooming through crowded airports a breeze. This stylish luggage has a TSA-approved lock and a flex feature that can size it up to schlep back your souvenirs. Bonus: Away is women-owned and partners with various charities and organizations, including the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association. The Carry-On Flex, $325

Make It Personal

Combine this under-seat-size bag with a carry-on and you’ll never need to check a suitcase again. Its four separate compartments include a laptop pocket and a charging port (you have to use your own power bank but the port makes it more accessible). Plus, the straps are super comfy, so you can load it up without breaking your back. Backpack for Laptop, $32.99, matein.com.

Roam Where You Want To

This bag is spendy, but you can customize the color of every element, including the front and back shells, wheels, zipper, binding, and handle, so you’ll never have trouble spotting your bag on the carousel. Plus, it has a built-in TSA-approved lock, an expandable option for even more room, and a lifetime warranty for functional fixes. The Large Carry-On, $575, roamluggage.com.

Retro-a-Go-Go

Take off in style with this vintage-inspired suitcase set. It’s got the look of old-school luggage but with the ease of updates—like quiet 360-spinner wheels and a built-in combo lock—for smoother travels. Personalized Pink Floral Luggage Set, $239.99 for a 2-piece set, patternislands.etsy.com.

This article originally appeared in the Winter 22/23 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today!

Top images: patternislands.etsy.com, matein.com, awaytravel.com

Can’t get enough Wednesday-inspired fashion and accessories pieces? If you’re looking for something more upscale, handmade, or sustainable, Check out these 7 pieces from our favorite indie gothic fashion designers 

1. Batty Picnic Blouse, Stripey 

Our obsession with Wednesday’s distinctive collar looks has no end! This A-line blouse from black-owned brand, Elegy Clothing, has a unique bat-shaped collar that is totally batty; a black-and-white striped pattern; ruffled sleeves finished in a small black half-inch lace; and an elastic sewn-on black ribbon bow.  ($55.00) 

2. Cry Space Striped Arm Warmers 

UK-based Disturbia’s Cry Space Striped Arm Warmers ($20.00) has an enchanting black-and-white stripe pattern, and the pink stitching pops against its black flexible hems. 

3. Margot Duster Jacket 

Mary Wyatt is a London-based brand that focuses on ethically-made fashion, and their Margot Duster Jacket ($182.40) is devised from an inky crepe fabric and cut with a moderate, oversized silhouette. Featuring dropped sleeves, slide splits, and front pockets, you’ll be draped in darkness just like Wednesday.  

4. Harlequin Blouse 

Throughout the series, we witness Wednesday rocking many black-and-white fashion pieces. Here’s your chance to match with this monochrome joker-triangle design blouse from Lady Sloth—a mother-daughter design duo based in Poland. This blouse comes in sizes up to XXL. ($100.00 – $110.00) 

5. Paris Cabaret dress 

From Shrine, a company that creates “extravagant garments and striking vestments” in Los Angeles, here is a glamorous French-style corset dress in black and black brocade that gives off Wednesday’s tulle dress-vibes from her iconic dance scene.

6. Vintage Y2k Stretchy Black and Grey Striped Short Sleeve 

The Vintage Y2k Stretchy Black and Grey Striped Short Sleeve ($42.00)  from indie brand, Tunnel Vision, is a cute classic black-and-gray striped turtleneck top. Plus, It’s super stretchy and unbelievably comfortable. Based in Los Angeles, Tunnel Vision sells only vintage and in-house made clothing.

7. Obsidian Adornment Chain

If you are an accessories queen, get into the Obsidian Adornment Chain , design by one-woman show Nasty Gem (all designs hand crafted by Tori T.),  which features a dark-hued heart pendant in the center surrounded by dusky glass beads, ($144.00)

Header photo: VLAD CIOPLEA/NETFLIX 

NEW YEAR’S EVE is usually a shit show for hotel staff, who have to escort drunks in and out of room parties all night long. But the 1995 New Year’s-themed black comedy anthology, Four Rooms, is the ultimate wild night for one bellhop (Tim Roth) who’s just trying to do his damn job. Each story and room has a different director (Quentin Tarantino, Robert Rodriguez, Alexandre Rockwell), but the one that brings us big Madonna-witch-realness is the first segment directed by Allison Anders: “The Missing Ingredient.” Madonna plays Elspeth, a witch whose coven convenes in the honeymoon suite to summon their goddess Diana via a list of ingredients: rosemary, sea salt, semen. Conjure up some spells yourself with Elspeth’s witchy latex-and-faux-fur vibes.

1. LATEX STRAPLESS CORSET DRESS, $242.91, fetasialatex.etsy.com.

2. DAGGER BEAUTY LUCIFER LIPSTICK, $20, daggerbeauty.com.

3. DOUBLE LAYER BLACK BEADED CHAIN NECKLACE CHOKER WITH CROSS PENDANT, $32.95, frozencherryjewels.etsy.com.

4. FINESSE WILLA BLACK FUR TRIM LEATHER COAT, $64, finesse.us.

5. NEON MUSHROOM GODDESS CANDLE IN NEON PINK, $15.95, botanicalgoodsstore.etsy.com.

6. POPPY LISSIMAN RYDER SUNGLASSES, $130, poppylissiman.com.

7. ATOMIC BLACK VINYL OPERA LENGTH GLOVES, $25, atomicjaneclothing.com.

TOP PHOTO: (MADONNA FILM STILL FOUR ROOMS) ALAMY; (CORSET DRESS) COURTESY OF FETASIA LATEX; (LEATHER COAT) COURTESY OF FINESSE

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Winter 2022-2023 print edition. Subscribe today!

New Year’s Eve brings on the urge to manifest an entire year’s worth of goals and resolutions. But if we’re being honest, it also brings stress when figuring out what to wear to celebrate. The solution? Focus on your makeup instead! Donni Davy, the Emmy-winning makeup artist for Euphoria and cofounder of Half Magic Beauty, created a glitzy makeup tutorial for BUST readers to wear when the ball drops–and beyond. The best part is, you don’t have to be a pro to do it yourself.

Davy puts a new spin on traditional festive makeup using stick-on studs instead of shimmer. “The rose gold spikes are a way to do a rhinestone gem moment that’s elevated and chic,” she says. Ahead, see how to get an NYE makeup look that’s equal parts glam and grunge using products by Half Magic Beauty. 

Step 1

Apply a rusty metallic shadow (Glamourust, $12) to the eyelid, all the way up to the temple. Dab a gold shadow (Karat Kween, $12), on the inner corner of eyes.

Step 2

Tightline the eyes with a creamy black eye pencil, creating a wing at the inner corners. Smudge with a precision eye shadow brush, extending the outer corner into a wing.

Step 3

Apply a glossy metallic taupe shadow (Wet Pebble, $12) on top of the eyeliner. “It makes it really smokey but also shimmery and wet-reflective-looking,” says Davy.

Step 4

Using tweezers, apply rose gold Face Studs ($12) to the inner eye and bridge of the nose for a “punk feel.” Finish with fake lashes or a few swipes of mascara.

Step 5

With a fluffy blush brush, apply a lilac shimmer (Pretty Robot, $12) to the highest point of cheekbones near the eye, and Light Trap ($20), a violet highlighter, to cheeks.

Photography by Kat Borchart

Makeup by Donni Davy

Model Ifeoma Bosah @minellimanagement

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! As we enter this classic holiday season, it’s a great time to experiment with festive makeup looks. Of course you can slay classic holiday looks like red lips and winged eyeliner, but ‘tis the season to add a little extra glitter and shine!  To that end, we’ve hand-picked 7 glamorous looks that are inspired by this holly jolly season. 

Winter Breeze 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Stefie (@makeupbystefie)

 The weather outside is oh so frightful! Match the winter-cold night with snowy blue lids. Makeup artist Stefie applied colourpop fresh concealer, target glitterally obsessed duo, and blue moon palette.                                                                                                             

Candy Cane Christmas 

 

 

 

 

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 If you love the candy cane pattern, as much as we do, get inspired by this candy cane pattern eye makeup, by Liege, Belgium, makeup artist Sarah. For the eyes, Sarah used carnival XL pro palette, milk (White) wet liner ,and the life liner quick’ n easy. The retro matte liquid lipcolour ‘feels so grand’, and NYX glitter primer were combined to make a red glittery lip effect.  

Silent Night 

 

 

 

 

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 Try this stunning glittery teal eye look for a holiday night on the town. This look was done by no other than Beyonce’s makeup artist, Sir John. 

Timeless Red  

 

 

 

 

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There’s nothing like wearing bright red lipstick for the holidays- paired with a minimal amount of eye shadow and a dash of gold highlight. Rock Sydeney Martin’s look using the code red shade rooi paired with lipstroke okto from CTZ cosmetics. 

Naughty or Nice 

 

 

 

 

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Smokey eyes and a bright dual orange combo is great for any occasion. Whether you feel naughty or nice you can never go wrong with this makeup duo. Makeup artists Allan Avendano and  Ruby Vo, styled our fav, Christina Ricci, for this look.     

Winter Wonderland

 

 

 

 

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It’s always a magical feeling entering a winter wonderland. Be inspired with this incredible smokey cream-white eye make up on the iconic Jodie Turner-Smith styled by makeup artist, Sheika Daley  

Grinchmas 

 

 

 

 

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Be as green and mean as the grinch with this cute shimmery green eye makeup. For this look, instagram influencer, Mary jay, used Makeup Shack’s rainforest palette, and the mini norvina pro pigment palette vol. 2 – for the shimmer outcome. 

Header collage includes photo by Stefie ,  Sydney Martin , and  Mary Jay                                                                                             

Krampus may be everyone’s fave Christmas demon. But when it comes to turning fierce vintage lewks, Glampus takes the cake!

THE GLOVE GIRL GLOVES; VINTAGE NECKLACE; EMERALD COSTUMES HORNS; WIGS BY RILEY WIG; PRISMATIC POSTICHE BEARD

VINTAGE DRESS AND BOA; STRADIVARIUS SHOES; DENTS GLOVES; NIKIBIOGRAPHY NECKLACE; VINTAGE BRACELETS; ASOS RINGS.

VINTAGE DRESS; VINTAGE SHOES; SNAG TIGHTS; THE GLOVE GIRL GLOVES; VINTAGE NECKLACE; ASOS RINGS.

VINTAGE DRESS; VINTAGE SHOES; SNAG TIGHTS; THE GLOVE GIRL GLOVES; VINTAGE NECKLACE; ASOS RINGS

VINTAGE DRESS AND BOA; STRADIVARIUS SHOES; GEORGE SOCKS; DENTS GLOVES; NIKIBIOGRAPHY NECKLACE; VINTAGE BRACELETS; ASOS RINGS; VINTAGE EARRINGS.

ASOS RINGS; VINTAGE DRESS; VINTAGE NECKLACES.

CREATIVE DIRECTION, SET DESIGN, AND COSTUME DESIGN BY HANNAH KNOWLES PHOTOGRAPHED BY CHLOE YATES // STYLED BY MARGHERITA IACOB // MAKEUP BY ALEXANDRA KNIGHTS // MODEL: POM POM

Caption for first image: VINTAGE DRESS; STRADIVARIUS SHOES; SNAG TIGHTS; GEORGE SOCKS; VINTAGE NECKLACES; VINTAGE BRACELET; ASOS RINGS; EMERALD COSTUMES HORNS; WIGS BY RILEY WIG; PRISMATIC POSTICHE BEARD.

If you’re loving Netflix’s new hit show, Wednesday, starring Jenna Ortega, as much as we are, then you’re going to want to take a look at these incredible outfits that are inspired by this comedy-horror. From the unforgettable black dress and white collar all the way to Wednesday’s gothic tulle ball gown, you can get your goth on with these  influential (and affordable) fashion pieces. 

1. Celestial Lessons Organza Dress

Deliver Wednesday’s well-recognized black- and- white collared dress with the Celestial Lessons Organza Dress. ( $39). This dress comes in sizes up to XXL, and features a Peter Pan collar, sheer elastic puffy sleeves, a layered ruffle skirt, a unique lace trim, and a ribbon feature.

2. Wednesday Nevermore Girls Cosplay Blazer

Ready to be a part of Nevermore Academy? Then get the Wednesday Nevermore Girls Cosplay Blazer ($59).  With its imprinted Nevermore Crest on the chest and black and grey striped pattern, you’ll be set for enrollment! Best of all, it’s available in sizes up to 3X.

3. The Black Widow Dress

The Black Widow Dress ($39.99)  is a lovely, vintage-inspired frock. The sheer cape and the wide swinging skirt makes this one completely edgy, yet feminine.

4. Gothic Lace Gloves 

These bewitching gloves have a floral lace construction, a beautiful silver cross charm, and ruffle ribbon detail that gives off that Wednesday vibe. ($17.50)

5. Damnation Platform Mary Janes

Let’s get into the shoes! Damnation Platform Mary Janes ($68.60) are super fabulous. They are vegan leather, and haves a chunky heels N’ buckle closures.

Top photo courtesy of Netflix 

Can nail art be feminist? Sure, why not. Whether you enjoy long and fun or short and classy nails, you can express your support of women’s rights  through your nails. If you are into DIY nail art, or  prefer a manicurist, you’ll be inspired by these 9 amazing and empowering nail designs. 

1. My Nails, Myself

Inspired by trippy artist Heather and artist Shai work, Stylist Carla Chanocua designed these  neon, sparkly nails to represent women have a right to our own choices when it comes to our bodies. 

2. Spelling It Out

Nail artist Julia incorporated the Planned Parenthood logo in this nail art,, along with a powerful, spelled out statement: My Body My Choice!

3. Simple Symbol

From Swoon Nails artist Lia Clarke, these acrylic black nails with a pink female symbol answer the question, “Who run the world?” (Women!). 

4. Power Play

Destiny Nguyen created these unique nails that express her stance on keeping laws off women’s bodies—including a uterus flipping the bird!

5. Affirmation Representation

Custom nail art by Sabz from The Bad Gal Salon displays empowering affirmations of girl power. 

6. Signs of the Times

Nail Artist Irma, from Purullena, Granada, created this set to combine her personal feelings on feminism with her professional work, including hand drawn art showing “GrL Pwr”, a vulva, and a powerful fist..

7. Feminist Minimalist

These white and red nails that spell out “FEMINIST” were drawn by jewelry-maker Antonia on long white press ons courtesy of Studio AJP.  

8. Think Pink

This fun and chic set features a graphic crying eye, a checkerboard, and “GRL PWR”, for a modern take on a feminist statement from a nail artist in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

9. Celestial Bodies

Influenced by artist Shelby McFadden, nail artist Kelly Ornstein wanted to show that “Women are strong, beautiful and deserve body autonomy,” with a set featuring rainbows, female nudes, moons, skeletons, and stars

Top Photos Screenshot from instagram Juila SaladFingernails and Destiny Nguyen 

When it comes to natural formulas that cater to melanated skin, black-women-owned skincare products are the way to go. Many of these companies are flourishing in the beauty industry, and supporting them benefits them as well as the consumer, irregardless of your skin tone. We’ve highlighted eight unique brands, as well as a few you may not have heard of, that you will want to add to your skincare routines.

Alikay Naturals 

 

 

 

 

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Alikay Naturals (@alikaynaturals) • Instagram photos and videos

Alikay Naturals founder and CEO, Rochelle Alikay Graham-Campbell, learned the benefits of natural ingredients from an herbalist at her kitchen table when she was a young Caribbean girl, and she began to create natural formulas that would address her own hair and skin demands. Without using petroleum, mineral oil, alcohol, parabens, sulfate or silicone, Alikay Naturals uses the healing properties found in natural and organic ingredients to replenish and nourish the skin. Products like the Green Tea Chai Face Scrub, is an excellent exfoliating product that smells divine, and moisturizes and softens your face. 

Buff Experts 

 

 

 

 

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 Buff Experts is a Canadian skin care brand founded by Sina Zere. Buff Experts focuses on clean, high-quality botanical ingredients, and is a plant-powered collection of cruelty-free body care products for skin from the neck down. 

Hyper Skin 

 

 

 

 

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Known for their award winning dark spot serum, Hyper Even Brightening Dark Spot Vitamin C Serum, Hyper Skin which was founded by Desiree Verdejo, highly centers on formulas that contain clinically proven ingredients and natural botanicals. Their serums, cleansing gels, and masks offer positive results for all skin tones. 

Hanahana Beauty 

 

 

 

 

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hanahana beauty (@hanahana_beauty) • Instagram photos and videos

Hanahana beauty products are made with shea butter directly from the Katariga Women’s Shea Cooperative in Ghana combined with natural oils. Their mission, according to founder Abena Boamah-Acheaming, is to increase accessibility, transparency, and sustainability in all aspects of what Hanahana Beauty creates. All of their products contain natural ingredients that will leave your skin feeling smooth and improved. 

Unsun Cosmetics 

 

 

 

 

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Unsun Cosmetics (@unsuncosmetics) • Instagram photos and videos

Unsun Cosmetics was created in 2016 by Katonya Breaux. She decided to create a cruelty-free, and reef-safe sunscreen for women of color due to limited options of clean sunscreen in the world. Unsun Cosmetics products are all vegan and are environmentally friendly. 

Beauty Bakerie  

 

 

 

 

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 Founder Cashmere Nicole created the vegan, paraben-free, and cruelty-free cosmetic brand, Beauty Bakerie, in 2011. Beauty Bakerie is committed to both high quality and healthy ingredients which enhances beauty for everyone.

Pholk Beauty  

 

 

 

 

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Pholk (@pholkbeauty) • Instagram photos and videos

Pholk Beauty, who’s motto is “Soul food for the skin,” ws created by Niambi Cacchioli, With blended heirloom superfoods from across the Black diaspora, Pholk vegan products treat common skin conditions, such as dark spots and ingrown hair. 

Walker’s Apothecary 

 

 

 

 

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Shalea Walker (@walkersapothecary) • Instagram photos and videos

Sheala Walker is an esthetician and founder of Walker’s Apothecary. Their products fuse traditional and cutting-edge treatments, which include botanical-based ingredients that comfort the mind, body, and soul. 

Header photo by Autumn Goodman  via Unsplash.

The temperature is dropping, and the leaves are falling. If you enjoy makeup, the changing colors may inspire you to try different shades of beauty products. Here are 13 of our hand-picked favorites to consider—from lipsticks to eye shadows to blush to even fragrance—in cozy shades that conjure the season, such as wine, burgundy, burnt orange, blackberry, and even hot chocolate! 

Dark Lips

Dare to be dark and bold this season with gloomy color lips. Colors like dim wine, deep burgundy, and blackberry are flattering, rich hues that are just right for expressing autumn’s aura. Here are several lip products to go dark and bold in. 

Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color : Underdawg deep burgundy $26.00

Burt’s Bees Glossy Liquid Lipstick Color: Wine Waters  $9.99

Colourpop Blur Lux Lipstick Color: Call Waiting deepened raspberry $10.50 

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Volumizing Mascaras

Long, dark, and on fleek. Give your eyes some pop this season with black volumizing mascara. These volumizing mascara has the ability to give your eyes that fall tone. 

Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Washable Mascara Blackest Black $12.99

Covergirl Lash Blast Fusion Mascara, Black $8.54

Autumn Eyeshadow Palettes 

There’s nothing like seeing fall foliage colors everywhere you go. So, why not accentuate your eyes with the colors you see in the fall season. Burnt orange, blackberry, brown shimmers, and a dab of pink eyeshadow colors can do just that! Try these eyeshadow palettes to have your eyes pop with the foliage shades.

Colourpop Whatever Eyeshadow Palette $18.00

Morphine 2 ready- in- 5 Eyeshadow Palette-Malibu $7.00

Brown Eyeliner

Bye bye black and hello brown! Brown eyeliner is the essential eyeliner shade for this season. It will give a soft dimension to your eyes while still making them appear rich and intense. This hot chocolate color eye pencil from Essence is easy to apply and it lasts for hours. 

Essence Long Lasting Eye Pencil Color Hot Chocolate  :$ 2.99

Pink and Nude Blushes 

Soft shade of pink and nude are a great combo for fall. No matter your skin color, these will give your cheeks the right autumn touch and will definitely make your complexion glow. 

Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Cheeks Out freestyle Cream Color 09 Cool Berry $22.00

E.l.f Infused Blush Always Cheeky $7.00 

Colourpop Super Shock Blush-Count Me In in soft pink $8.00

Fragrances

Out with the old and in with the new! Put away your floral, summery scents and consider these fall fragrances. They make us feel warm and cozy by giving off that sweet, spicy, feminine, and toasty aroma. Here are two cozy fall fragrances that you can’t resist.

Carolina Herrera Mini Good Girl Eau de Parfum $15.00

It is the ultimate femme fatal fragrance which gives off a sweet, fresh, and creamy scent, with a hint of spicy. It consist of tuberose, jasmine, tonka Bean.

Brazilian Crush Cheirosa 71 Perfume Mist $20

The Cheirosa 71 perfume is a warm-welcoming scent that invites you to a caramelized vanilla, toasted macadamia nut, and tonka bean combination. 

Header photo by Sebastian Pociecha on Unsplash

If you want to look like a boss bitch who is about to get shit done (or if you want to actually get work done in the garden and need tons of pockets for tools), then overalls are the look for you.

Here Comes the Sun

Mokuyobi Sunshine Zap Overalls, $176 

Just because you’re doing serious work, that doesn’t mean you can’t brighten up the room (or the yard) with your ’fit. 

Image Credit: (Mokuyobi) Gabriel Mendoza Weiss

In the Weeds

Duluth Trading Women’s Plus Heirloom Gardening Bib Overalls, $89.50

These babies have 12 pockets, sun protection, and double-layered knees with a “water barrier,” so the mud will literally brushright off them. There is no better attire for digging in the dirt. 

Tie One On

Dovetail Workwear Freshley Overalls, $149

Coming at you with 13 pockets, knee slots for pads, and best of all, a “twine hole” in the bib to run twine for tying up plants, this pair will have you looking fine as hell while stringing up tomatoes. They also go up to size 24.

Frankie Says Relax

Morimiss Folk Totem Prints Farmer Overalls, $66.99 

Not all overalls need to be highly functional; sometimes you just want a dope leisure suit. This patched-up pair is comfortable and cute—the best of both worlds. 

Seeding in Style

Lucy & Yak Carmen Jumpsuit: Organic Twill in Posy Green, $89

 
Stash your seed packets and other gardening gear in any of the roomy pockets of this utility suit, which is made with GOTS-certified organic cotton. The long sleeves will keep you warm during fall harvest. 

This article originally appeared in the Fall 2022 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today! 

Check out our round-up of some of our fav fashion and beauty products you will want to cop this fall. 

YOUTH IN REVOLT

Every piece of jewelry made by Laser Kitten’s founder and creative director Marisa Ravel is a sweet sucker punch to my nostalgic heart. From the bedazzled Furbies to the colorful Tamagotchi earrings, rhinestone Clueless pendants, and Spice Girls charms (prices vary, laserkitten.com), I’m immediately transported to my youth. –marie lodi

GLAZED OVER

If vegan lip color is your love language, you’ll get heart eyes for Glass Gloss. Woman-owned and operated, this cruelty-free beauty brand makes shades that protect and moisturize—like the sparkly “Stargaze Pink” ($12, glassgloss.com)—and that actually stay put, whether you’re sipping or smooching. –emily rems

WIGGING OUT

Curious about trying faux bangs, a Madonna circa Blond Ambition Tour ponytail, or experimenting with some serious Crystal Gayle length? Then online retailer Insert Name Here Hair needs to be on your radar. Founded by beauty-industry besties Jordynn Wynn and Sharon Pak, this affordable hair-extension brand ($29 to $119, inhhair.com) will make sure you never have a bad hair day again. –m.l.

BEHIND THE SEAMS

There are more clothes in existence now than ever before, and that’s not a good thing for a myriad of reasons, not just the ecological impact. In Worn Out: How Our Clothes Cover Up Fashion’s Sins, former Teen Vogue and InStyle editor Alyssa Hardy take a hard look at the brutal repercussions the fast-fashion industry has on the millions of garment workers it employs—who are mostly women of color. –m.l.

CLAWS UP

Lila Robles, aka Nail Jerks (@nailjerks), is a legend in the nail art world. Her specialty lies in air-brushing, inspired by the designs she saw on lowriders and at county fairs growing up. Every rainbow-hued manicure she paints, from sad clowns to Mariah Carey album-ready butterflies, is a tiny, magical masterpiece. –m.l.

PHOTO: (YOUTH IN REVOLT) COURTESY OF LASER KITTEN;

(WIGGING OUT) COURTESY OF INSERT NAME HERE HAIR;

(NAIL JERKS) COURTESY OF LISA ROBLES;

(GLASS GLOSS) COURTESY OF GLASS GLOSS

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Fall 2022 print edition. Subscribe Today!

Have you ever had a delicious slice of pie and asked, “What’s the secret ingredient?” Without that one special something, the pie wouldn’t be as memorable. And the same goes for beauty products; it’s the hero ingredient that really makes it. “A hero ingredient is the most important and effective active ingredient in a skincare product,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Macrene Alexiades. “It’s a signature ingredient that sets it apart from other products.” 

You’ve likely heard of tea tree or rose oil, but we’re highlighting the lesser-known ingredients you need to try. They’re unique—shiso leaves, pili oil, or scorpion venom(!)—and will elevate your skincare routine. All of these products are from cutting-edge brands that should be on your radar. 

Ingredient 1: Neem

Aavrani Glow Activating Exfoliator, $29

Neem is a tree native to India and most countries in Africa and it has high levels of antioxidants. “In our exfoliator, neem is combined with turmeric and honey to brighten skin and clear blemishes,” explains Rooshy Roy, cofounder and CEO of Aavrani.

Ingredient 2: Blue Scorpion Venom

MRVL Skin Solutions Anti-Aging Firming Serum, $195

Scientists discovered a peptide contained in scorpion venom that can have anti-aging effects on the skin. This firming serum harnesses the power of the venom to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Ingredient 3: Shiso Leaves

DamDam Mochi Mochi Luminous Face Cream, $48

Shiso is a Japanese herb in the mint family known for its antioxidant and anti inflammatory properties. It gives you a “mochi’’complexion, aka skin that’s bouncy and smooth like the dessert.

Ingredient 4: Amethyst

Herbivore Amethyst Body Polish, $44

Amethyst is a gemstone known for balancing emotions and revitalizing energy. When it’s crushed, the fine grounds act as an exfoliant that gently buffs and polishes skin.

Ingredient 5: Tulips

Bloom Effects Tulip Dew Drops, $55 

Tulips are one of the only flowers that grows even after it’s cut. Tulip extract has growth factors that stimulate cells to strengthen the skin’s foundation, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles

Ingredient 6: Pili Oil

Pili Ani Self-Care Night Recovery Oil, $40

“Pili oil comes from the pulp of the pili fruit, found only in the Philippines,” explain Mary Jane Tan-Ong and Rosalina Tan, cofounders of Pili Ani. “It’s rich in essential fatty acids that absorb easily to moisturize your skin.

Header collage by Michaela Macpherson 

This article originally appeared in the Fall 2022 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today! 

The editors at Harper’s Bazaar called it “The Nine-Day Wonder Diet” and promised readers they would lose a pound a day if they followed it diligently. To help them do so, the magazine produced a silk scarf, printed with all nine days’ worth of menus. “DIETING IS FUN when you wear this sensational new scarf with its design theme of the famous Harper’s Bazaar 9-Day Wonder Diet,” read a 1953 ad inIndependent Woman magazine. “Wear it as a bright color accent for your new spring costumes, and as a reminder to slim down.” The Wonder Diet first appeared in Bazaar’s March 1941 issue. Each day began and ended with half a grapefruit, while most meals consisted of meat, meat, and more meat, with a smattering of vegetables and carbs. “Meat is the magic that does it…. Big, juicy steaks, steaming hamburgers, sizzling lamb chops—you can have them all,” ran the copy. “Why does this diet reduce you? The high protein content steps up your body metabolism, and a heightened metabolism burns up fat.” This was a questionable claim. What was undoubtedly true, however, was that people lost weight because they were consuming extremely few calories, somewhere around 500 to 900 a day. Even so, readers loved it. “Because of overwhelming popular demand, we republish a feature for the first time in our history—a dietary miracle which is changing the waistlines of the nation,” crowed the magazine when it shared the diet again in June 1941, a mere three months after its first appearance.

By the mid-1960s, Bazaar had reprinted the diet five times.The silk scarf wasn’t the only Nine-Day Wonder Diet tie-in product. A 1942 fashion editorial in the magazine showed a blouse and dress made of a rayon fabric printed with “All the little carrots, tomatoes, chops, and celery that have made us and kept us thin,” along with flatware and the days of the week. The blouse came in lettuce green, tomato red, carrot ,and whole-wheat tan, while the dress was dark blueberry blue. The diet also appeared on a cotton hankie (at $1, a little less than half the price of the silk scarf—$2.50) and a linen tea towel, perfect for hanging in the kitchen.Syndicated health columnist Logan Clendening, M.D., reviewed the diet in 1941 and noted the caloric intake was too low to be healthy, and the plan could “be justly criticized on the basis of monotony.” Sixty years later, a nutritionist and a dietician reviewed the Nine-Day Wonder Diet for a 2002 Harper’s Bazaar article on the century of diet advice that had appeared in its pages. “Spartan to say the least,” opined the nutritionist, while the dietician “shuddered” and said, “it’s starvation.

Photos by Shirley Yu
Prop/Wardrobe Stylist: Sophie Davila
Makeup + Hair : Raouf Marzouki
Model: Eva Taylor

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Fall 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

On the 13th of September this year, Mahsa Amini, 22, was arrested in Tehran for violating the rules of not wearing a proper hijab or headscarf. She was severely beaten by the police and died following the brutal treatment. Ever since that day, both Iranian men and women have been protesting on the street against the strict guidelines regarding women’s clothing under the Islamic Regime, and a conversation has started about how the government treats Iranian women, and the many rules they must obey, especially regarding their clothing in public. As part of their dissatisfaction with the Iranian government, many women cut off their hair or unveiled it publicly to show their support for Amini and the movement against the Islamic dress codes.

Zan-e Rooz No 302, 19 January, 1970

What may be surprising to many is that it wasn’t that long ago when Iranian women shared the same amount of freedom in appearance and movement as their Western sisters, and proof of this can be found in back issues of an Iranian magazine, called Zan-e Rooz (sometimes romanized as Zan-i Rūz). Zan-e Rooz was an Iranian women’s weekly magazine, and the Persian title translates to Women of Today. The magazine was started in 1964 as a Western-inspired gossip magazine, in which the women of Iran could read about their favorite Hollywood or European actors and read their horoscopes, find dating advice and get fashion and style inspiration. But after the Iranian Revolution—also known as the Islamic Revolution —in 1979, Zan-e Rooz was forced to change its format and style to conform to the new morality code enforced by the government. Its editorial board and reporters had been almost exclusively female, but most of the original staff resigned as a result of having to conform to the rules. 

Zan-e Rooz No 181, 2 September, 1968

The previous issues were formerly online, but the archive was recently taken down in light of recent protests. But most of the original Zan-e Rooz magazines are still found online at archivist Anna Lucia’s online site named Perfume drinker, where you can view various issues from 1964 to 1979. Lucia has asked anyone with information or online versions of other issues of Zan-e Rooz to reach out to try and complete the collection. 

Zan-e Rooz No 181, 2 September, 1968

Zan-e Rooz is written in Persian, but the pictures offer a compelling insight into the lives of Iranian women in the 1960s and 70s. What is most striking in the images is the freedom and sexuality the models express: heavy 60’s makeup, big eyes, long flowy hair, and showing a lot of skin in short skirts and dresses, typical of Western styles of the day. 

Zan-e Rooz No 288, October 3, 1970

However, the turmoil around women’s dress in Iran today did not begin with the Iranian revolution—the clothing women wear in Iran has been a sensitive topic in the country for many years. In fact, it goes back to the last Iranian royal dynasty, the Pahlavi dynasty., which ruled from 1925 under Reza Shah Pahlavi (born Reza Khan) until 1979, when it ultimately collapsed. During the 54 years that it reigned, the hijab, or veil, was highly popular among Iranian women. For most of them, it is a symbol of culture and religion, but for many, it also symbolized their household traditions. 

Zan-e Rooz No 288, October 3, 1970

However, in the early 20th century, under the reign of Reza Khan, the government started to enforce the unveiling of women wearing veils or hijabs in public under a law named ​​Kashf-e hijab (translated Unveiling). In 1936, veils and headscarves were banned to modernize Iran the fastest way possible. The morality police were ordered to uphold the new laws by forcefully ripping the headscarves off of women, and where businesses previously could face fines if they refused to serve customers who wore improper veils, now it was illegal for businesses to serve any customer wearing a veil or headscarf. However, the ban eased when Reza Khan fled in 1941 after publically sympathizing with the Germans during World War II.

Zan-e Rooz No 288, October 3, 1970

Under the Islamic Revolution in 1979, however, the veil became a political symbol once more, and many women wore it to represent their opposition to the Pahlavi dynasty. But the symbol of freedom was soon to end; after the revolution, veiling was once again made mandatory, and the headscarf became a different kind of political symbol. This obligation changed the narrative around the meaning of the hijab. 

Zan-e Rooz No 302, 19 January, 1970

Women’s clothing and head coverings have been political and sensitive topics in Iran for many years. Women have been told what to wear, and how to behave, without having any say in the matter themselves —whether they are being forced to wear the hijab, or prohibited from wearing it, the choice is always being taken out of women’s hands. The images in Zan-e Rooz show how women’s ability to express themselves has changed severely throughout the years. The Iranian government and their morality police telling women what or what not to wear is a fundamental women’s rights issue, and the women of Iran are yet to unveil their next move in the fight for freedom.

Photos from Zan-e Rooz at Perfume drinker

 Don’t want to be bothered with dressing up this Halloween? Wear your costume on your mouth! Makeup artist Ryan Kelly (@RyanKellyMUA), who is famous for her amazing lip art, created this spooky tutorial that gives you two choices: a chic gray ombré look that can be worn alone for a subtle scare or transformed into a bone-chilling skull with just a few extra steps. “Remember to have fun with it and use a straw when you go out!” she says. –Marie Lodi

Here are Kelly’s instructions for turning your lips into a ghostly work of art.

 1. Prep lip with a hydrating lip primer (like Vaseline), blotting enough so your lips are moisturized but not slippery. 

2. Use a black lip or eye pencil to trace the outline of your lip slightly above your natural lip line.

3. Fill in the outer corners of the lips with black pencil, blending with a brush or fingers to create a softer outline while leaving the center open. 

4. Apply a blob of white liquid lipstick or regular lipstick to the center of the lips, then press lips together.

5.Using a makeup sponge or fingertips, lightly tap to blend, creating an ombré effect. 

6. Clean up around the outside of the lips with concealer using an angled brush. 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by RyanKellyMUA (@ryankellymua)

Spooky Skull

1. Starting with the gray ombré lip, add another layer of white lipstick to the center of the lip so it creates a brighter, light bulb-esque shape. 

2. Apply and blend black liner outside of the white to form a skull. 

3.Using black liquid eyeliner, draw two circles on the center of the upper lip for eyes, two mirrored, obtuse triangles underneath for a nose, and a few small lines on the bottom lip to mimic teeth. 

4.Use a brush around the skull to blend out and refine the shape. 

5.If needed, clean up once more around the outside of the lips with concealer. 

 Photos courtesy of Ryan Kelly

This article originally appeared in the Fall 2022 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today! 

Tina Estrella

EDUCATOR AND CONTENT CREATOR, @THEHAUNTINA
INLAND EMPIRE, CA

What is empowering about your look?
My philosophy is, “Live every day like it’s Halloween.” A lot of it is me sort of reclaiming the times in my youth when I felt like I had to dim myself down to fit into certain spaces where I didn’t want to stand out too much. It wasn’t until my mid-20s that I finally started embracing the things that I like and that make me me, even if they were a little spooky or a little weird. A big inspiration and something that is important to how I style myself as a plus-size, alternative woman is to not focus on appealing to the male gaze, but rather to appeal to how the younger me would see me now, and hopefully think I look cool.

How does spooky style align with your personality?
I’ve always had an affinity toward darkness. I really like the gothic, witchy look, but I also like cute things. My style changes depending on my mood. 

What is your favorite accessory?
I would say my Everyday Bruja Hat from The Beheaded. It makes the look more of a statement. I either like something on my head or I have a statement purse. When I put on the Bruja hat, I feel powerful.

Can you tell me about your cauldron purse?
That one was made by a small designer who I found on Instagram called Monster Creations. They do a lot of spooky-inspired purses. I saw a purse they made that was shaped like the old McDonald’s Halloween buckets from back in the day. Soon after, they started making more unique designs. That cauldron is one of my favorites—and it glows in the dark!

I’d love to know who some of your style icons are.
I would say Vampira is probably one of my biggest inspirations. People called her weird back then, but she just embraced the darkness and it let her be very fierce, you know what I mean? A lot of my icons are actually friends of mine. I have a very good circle of people who all embrace that spooky style, so we all get inspiration from each other.

Tina’s Top 5

Here are some of Tina’s Fave Picks:

1.Wild Ways Vintage Top in Glow in the Dark Ghosts,  
Vixen by Micheline Pitt, $48

2. Black TUKskin Fringe Loafer Platforms,
T.U.K. Footwear $119.95

3. The Dahlia Dress,
Blackwood Castle, $170

4. The Cauldron Tote, The Beheaded,  $60

5.  Bat Collar in Black, Mantrap, $49

Photographed by Katherine Sheenan 

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Fall 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

Crocheting and knitting have been popular among younger generations since at least the early 2000s. But lately, thanks to social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, the trend has been spreading like wildfire. Crocheting clothing yourself has become particularly huge: hashtags like #crochetersofinstagram and #crochetaddict have over 16 million posts in total, while popular crochet-TikTokers such as @emmamastone and @leniscrochet have over 100.000 followers combined. 

Crochet’s rising popularity as a hobby among younger folks may have something to do with the handcraft appearing more accessible to many; crochet requires only a single device—a hook, whereas knitting requires two needles. To crochet, you create loops and link them together to make a piece of fabric. And with greater flexibility than knitting allows, crocheting comes across as very approachable. Crocheting differs from knitting in that it doesn’t create stretchy fabric but instead can easily create material that is very lacy and is also well-adapted to chunky yarns.

Handmade, crocheted clothing is a direct response to the fast fashion trends we are constantly exposed to because, unlike knitting, crochet is the only handcraft that cannot be made on a machine; it must be done by hand. The popularity of crocheting has led to several small women-owned businesses selling crocheted pieces made by hand. An example of this could be @pauluschkaa.studio, @loupystudio and @crochet2k_, selling their handmade pieces on Instagram and Etsy. 

In the last few years, crocheted items also made their way onto the runway, and once again, this Fashion Week, crocheted clothing pieces appeared in multiple collections. High fashion brands such as Oscar de la Renta, GCDS, Kate Spade, and more all displayed crocheted fashion pieces on the runway for their Spring 2023 collections. 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Oscar de la Renta (@oscardelarenta)

Like all other fashion trends, fast fashion brands take the styles from the runways at Fashion Week and remake them in a more accessible price range. We all know that fast fashion is not suitable for the environment; they copy fashion trends and make much clothing of poor quality that will, shortly after purchase, be discharged. But in this case, many smaller designers have complained that more prominent brands are copying their designs and not giving credit where credit is due, especially when it comes to hand-made crocheted items. 

@emmamastone

redoing this bc i had typos but as a small designer myself whos seen a lot of my friends have their work stolen its difficult to see!! shein and aliexpress have taken so much from small designers!

♬ spongebob disappointment sound – Polish Person ??

Both Zara and H&M have added crochet pieces to their new collections, and so has the ultra-fast fashion brand SHEIN. But out of those three brands mentioned, SHEIN is probably the least transparent with its production. SHEIN claims they are more sustainable than other fast-fashion outlets because they produce a lot of small collections instead of more extensive collections to avoid wasting material. While this sounds nice, it’s doubtful that it would categorize them as a sustainable clothing brand. Fashion Revolution is a fashion activist organization that aims to make the average customer aware of what is behind clothing brands. Every year Fashion Revolution makes a Fashion Transparency Index where they rank the 250 biggest clothing brands in the world according to their “level of public disclosure on human rights and environmental policies, practices, and impacts.” SHEIN has been categorized as one of the least transparent brands, scoring only 2% transparency out of a hundred.

SHEIN sells various crocheted clothing at their site at the moment; everything from tops, bikinis, skirts, dresses, and so on. SHEIN sells crocheted bucket hats for only $11 on their website, whereas in comparison, Pauluschkaa Studio (@pauluschkaa.studio) sells her bucket hats for anything between $85 and $99. There’s a noticeable price difference between those two similar hats, but the worker’s payment behind those items may be the most significant difference. Pauluschkaa Studio reveals on her Instagram that creating a dress can take up to 20 hours of crocheting – whereas SHEIN sells a crocheted dress for as little as $11.25. The incoherence between the amount of work behind the items and the price of the articles shows a disconnect. With the lack of knowledge about SHEIN’s production— and comparing the prices of their crocheted items knowing it can only be made by hand—it is not hard to imagine the workers behind the clothing are not getting fair payment. 

Checkered Pattern Bucket Hat from SHEIN, $11

 

 

 

 

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Et opslag delt af P Ɐ U L U S C H K Ɐ Ɐ studio (@pauluschkaa.studio)

Evvia, the designer behind Loupy Studio (@loupystudi), expressed her dissatisfaction with fast fashion brands interest in creating crochet pieces for their collections in an interview with Refinery29: “When we see things that we assume are machine-made it’s a bit easier to dissociate the person making the piece from the piece itself. Unless you’re a very good machine-knitter for example, you don’t really know how long it takes. But when it has to be handmade you have context… And then you see what it’s sold for.”

Top: Crochet top for sale on Etsy.com by designer LuckyHandsKnitting; bottom: similar crochet top for sale on Shein. Both tops are handmade. But only one maker is being paid fairly.

Crocheted items have become a fashion trend so quickly that not everyone has the time to learn to crochet, and many others do not have the interest, which is also okay. The thought of crocheting clothing for oneself can seem as unattainable as the high fashion couture displayed at Fashion Weeks around the world. But fast fashion brands have taken notice, and that might be the downfall of it all. Fast fashion has made us impatient, and homemade handcrafts such as crocheting are the epitome of slow fashion. With fast fashion and ultra-fast fashion brands taking part in the trend, it takes away everything that the art of crocheting is supposed to be about—the uniqueness of each item, the patience, the quality, the time spent, and the sense of accomplishment. Worst of all, fast-fashion crochet, since it is guaranteed to have been made by hand, and with a generous amount of time, pretty much guarantees that a worker’s craft has been exploited. And that’s not a trend anyone can get behind. 

Opening photo by Shelter on Unsplash

BACK WHEN EVERYONE kept talking about the “Coastal Grandma” aesthetic, I instantly thought of something more whimsical, something more me. It was “Coastal Weird Aunt,” inspired by the eccentric and absolutely fashionable witch aunties in the 1998 cinematic masterpiece Practical Magic. Sally (Sandra Bullock) and Gillian (Nicole Kidman) definitely have some cute ’90s garb, but we mustn’t sleep on Aunt Jet (Dianne Wiest) and Aunt Frances (Stockard Channing)! Whether it’s casting spells or tending to the garden, these magical style icons do everything in long dresses and kimonos, layered gemstone necklaces, statement earrings, and flamboyantly large hats. Make some midnight margaritas and invoke their fabulousness yourself.

1. MARY BENSON THE ELIZABETH DRESS—CELESTE PRINT ON EMERALD VELVET, £595, marybenson.london.

(MARY BENSOMN DRESS) LIBBY BURKE WILDE

2. WOMEN’S ULTRABRAID XL BRIM FLOPPY HAT IN BLACK, $57, sandiegohat.com.

3. ADIBA NATURAL GREEN ONYX GEMSTONE LEAVES EARRINGS, $189, adibadesigns.com.

4. PETRA PETROVA LACE-FRINGE KIMONO, $215, wolfandbadger.com. 

5. LEEADA JEWELRY HAZEL LARIAT NECKLACE, $88, leeadajewelry.com.

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Fall 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

 header: (PRACTICAL MAGIC) DINOVI PICTURES/RGA

Body art with the aesthetic of permanent tattoos and none of the commitment? That sounds like an impossible dream if you’ve never visited one of Ephemeral Tattoo’s four studios (for locations see ephemeral.tattoo), but that’s the science-based magic of their “made-to-fade” tattoo ink.

“Our ink goes into the same layer of skin as traditional ink, but it’s biodegradable and will be broken down by the body,” explains Q, a tattoo artist at the L.A. studio. The result is a real tattoo—applied with a real tattoo gun—that naturally and safely fades away in nine to 15 months.

Ephemeral helps clients explore new modes of self-expression by eliminating some of the initial anxiety that accompanies sitting in a tattoo chair. “More often than not,” Q says, “first-time clients love their pieces so much that they ask how long they have to wait before getting it done over in permanent ink.” –RACHEL SANOFF

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Ephemeral Tattoo (@ephemeraltattoo)

Photos courtesy of Ephemeral 

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Summer 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

“This whole company feels like a joke I took too far,” says Penelope Gazin, founder of Los Angeles-based clothing line Fashion Brand Company. “I was up one night at 4 a.m. and wondered if ‘fashionbrandcompany.com’ was available,” Gazin recalls. “It was $40 on GoDaddy, so I bought it.” Gazin founded the company in her apartment in 2018, and if you type “fashion brand” into Google today, her business is the first search result. “I guess it worked out accidentally.”

Humor is integral to the brand, as evidenced by its name and by Gazin’s surreal, irreverent designs—some of which she says come to her in dreams. Best-selling items include a velvet “moth” dress with winged sleeves and knit sweaters with patterns ranging from three-dimensional nipple polka dots to storybook-style cottages with “SEX HOUSE” in all caps sewn underneath. “I just like to make myself laugh, and I feel very lucky that other people sometimes also find it funny,” the former animator says. “I have learned to indulge myself when I think, ‘Wow, I just thought of the dumbest idea.’”

Gazin, the sole designer and fabric sourcer, is also a trained dancer and drummer for the band Slut Island. Her familiarity with live performance informs the costume-like creations, which feature few zippers and lots of soft, stretchy fabrics. Gazin then works with a small China-based manufacturing team to realize her visions. All employees work less than 40 hours per week with paid vacations, pensions, and maternity leave. “I wanted to make sure we actively know the people who make our clothes are living well,” she says.

In L.A., Gazin works with a small operations team; she brought on four full-time employees in 2020 after becoming pregnant with her first child. She adores this “dream team” while still thinking fondly of the two years she spent running the company solo and shipping inventory from her apartment: “It was a nightmare hellscape that I actually felt very comfortable living in…I still kinda miss doing everything myself a little bit and daydream about starting a teensy-tiny company in my garage that sells such strange clothes no one even buys them.” –Rachel Sanoff

PHOTOS: (NIPPLE SWEATER) PENELOPE GAZIN; (MOTH DRESS) ALANNA DURKEE; (SEX HOUSE) KATE HOWELL

1. GLOW UP ISLAND STYLE 

Meet Prim Botanicals, a plant-based beauty brand that incorporates ingredients from founder Stefanie Walmsley’s native Philippines into products like the Debauchery Detox scrub ($25, primbotanicals.com), which contains the antioxidant-packed Philippine Barako coffee. Another must-try is That One Summer Hair Oil—its nourishing blend of exotic oils is a savior for dry strands.

2. POOLSIDE PERFECTION 

Swimsuits that are cute enough to wear outside of the water used to be a fantasy for bigger babes, but Alpine Swim changed all of that with swoony bathing suits that go up to a size 6X. The Te Amo Selena Top and Bottom ($120 each), with its fringe fabulousness, is the outfit of my poolside fantasies. 

3. CLOTHES FOR THOUGHT

If you love fashion but also like thinking about why we dress the way we do, let Véronique Hyland school you with her book of essays, Dress Code: Unlocking Fashion from The New Look to Millenial Pink. The author and Elle fashion features director actually coined the term “millennial pink,” which is one of the topics she covers in this fun and thought-provoking read. 

4. BOLD BAGGAGE 

If you’ve never met joy in the form of a handbag, you have now. El Cholo’s Kid uses colorful recycled plastic for its bags, which range from adorably tiny purses to carry–all totes and everything in between ($35-$72), all made by artisans in Mexico.

5. FASHION REINCARNATED 

Do you have an old kitchen towel laying around that you can’t bear to get rid of? Enter Selina Sanders. The Altadena, CA-based slow fashion artist takes old tea towels and transforms them into adorable puff-sleeve tops and dresses (prices vary), allowing each piece to have a second chance at life.

PHOTOS: (TE AMO SWIMSUIT) @PEGGYSHOOTSFILM; (SELINA SANDERS) SELINASANDERS.COM

On Chelsea: Poster Grl Top and Skirt; SCg Shoe Co. Shoes. On Deniyah: Poster Grl Top and Skirt; Vans Shoes. On Zaina: Poster Grl Top and Skirt; Nike Shoes.

On Chelsea: Rusty Reconstructed Dress; SCg Shoe Co. Shoes. On Zaina: Nasty Gal Top; NorBlack NorWhite Pants; Nike Shoes.

On Deniyah: Jackalope Land Jacket.

On Deniyah: Jaded Rose Dress; Vans Shoes; Bonnie Clyde Sunglasses; Vintage Earrings: Stylist’s Own. On Zaina: Collective Dress; Bonnie Clyde Sunglasses; Nike Shoes.

On Deniyah: Rusty Reconstructed Dress; Vans Shoes.

On Zaina: MelianJ Top and Skirt.

On Chelsea: Amy Lynn Top and Pants; Bonnie Clyde Sunglasses; SCg Shoe Co shoes.

On Deniyah: NorBlack NorWhite Dress; Nose Ring: Model’s Own.

On Chelsea: NorBlack NorWhite Dress; Collective Dress. On Deniyah: NorBlack NorWhite Dress; Nose Ring: Model’s Own.

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Summer 2022 print edition. Subscribe

Once upon a time, likely in ancient Mesopotamia, caftans appeared, stitched into existence by clever fingers whose nameless owners would never know what a gift they were giving the world. These loose, long, robe-like garments kept people in hot climates looking elegant and feeling cool. Later, starting in the 1950s, high-couture houses like Dior and Halston brought their own wildly patterned, colorful caftans to life, quickly elevating a lazing-around-the-house look to one of effortless glamour.

Caftans then reigned supreme in Western fashion, treating the public’s eyes to sights like Elizabeth Taylor, swishing through life, her silhouette swathed in gorgeously draped, embellished caftans, and dripping in jewels. From models to moms, everyone wore caftans. And then they were forgotten, for the most part. Fashion moved on and caftans were pushed to the backs of closets until all the moms donated them in the 1980s.

And that’s how I got them. Ever since I was old enough to drive myself to thrift stores, I’ve always bought every caftan I could find, one by one, whether it was a ruffled rainbow cotton number or a gauzy, see-through, rhinestone-encrusted design. Caftans are glamorous. Caftans remain staunchly gender-neutral. Caftans can be belted, dressed up or down, and worn at any time and for any occasion. You can wear one to the pool, or the beach, or a fancy event. You can wear one to Pride, or a Zoom meeting, or to host a party. I even got pandemic-married in a caftan!

Algerian woman wearing a caftan, 19th century

Everywhere you go, every time you wear a caftan, people will scream-compliment you. You will be as comfortable as if you were in your own pajamas, and yet you will look like a draped Roman goddess who put thought and care into an ensemble. You’ll make airy, sweeping gestures, your voluminous sleeves accentuating your every move, and people’s eyes will follow, mesmerized by the drama of your caftan.

 Caftans are whirling back around on the merry-go-round of fashion trends. André Leon Talley has always known. Meryl Streep wears one in The Post. Tilda Swinton wears one in The French Dispatch. Rihanna’s been spotted wearing one; so have Sarah Jessica Parker, Jennifer Lopez, Beyoncé, and Priyanka Chopra. And now it’s time for you to feel the joy of wearing literally nothing (or shorts! Or a swimsuit!) underneath a whole-ass outfit you can wear–and look fabulous in—anywhere. –Krista Burton

The author on her wedding day    

Embrace the Caftan Life

1. Liz Blu Caftan, $138, jennafergracecollection.com.

2. Embroidered Caftan Dress, $420, mananaua.etsy.com.

3. Madam Emerald Kaftan, $595, juliaclancey.com.

4. kaftan maxi dress, $75, thundertextile.com.

5. Yellow Kimono Dress Kaftan, $54, museodesign.etsy.com.

6. Kaa Tassel Hot Pink Maxi Caftan, $292, wolfandbadger.com.

 photos: (top) Liz taylor ScreenProd / Photononstop / Alamy Stock Photo; photo:  (1) courtesy of jennafer grace collection; (2) Manana UA;  (3) julia@juliaclancey.com;   (4) courtesy of Thunder textile (5) museo design; 6) KITTEN from Wolf & Badger

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Summer 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

Kasia Szarek

CASTING DIRECTOR, ACTOR, AND INFLUENCER, @KASIA   LOS ANGELES, CA

Tell me everything about this look.

I’ll keep pieces in my closet for a while and give them new life. This rainbow ombré swimsuit is one of them. I wish I could say where it’s from, but it’s a resurrected piece! I am a huge fan of frilly socks with shoes; they can pull together an outfit and add so much flair. The shoes are from Sugar Thrillz. I am obsessed with all sorts of fluffy heels—almost all of my shoes have fluff in some way. The hair clip is from Santee Alley in L.A.

My friend Chrissa Sparkles designed the confetti party swimsuit. And those fuzzy sunglasses—we actually sell them. My two friends and I have an online store called Glitter Death, and we carry a bunch of really cool independent designers.

Why do you dress so colorfully? I love it.

I can’t exist in a world without color. I do whatever I can to inject color—with print, patterns, whatever it is—something to make things fun and exciting instead of looking at drab things all day. It sparks so much joy, and I like the way other people receive it as well. I think it excites people when they see me walking down the street wearing something that they “would never wear,” but they can appreciate it.

What advice do you have for people who want to discover their personal style?                  

I love TikTok. Getting inspiration from other people and content creators can be a really good place for someone to start exploring andnstart feeling confident. Also, two-piece sets always look super chic and put together. If you wear the set together, you don’t have to pick out too many other things to go along with it. Once you’re feeling a little more confident, you might start thinking about things to wear one of the pieces with. Have trust in yourself to experiment, to try new looks and styles, and go out there and have the confidence to rock something new. When in doubt, try it out. The most important thing is to have fun!

Photo: Courtesy of Lee Jameson 

CELEBRATE BOLD SUMMER STYLE WITH KASIA’S PICKS

1. Glitter Death Bowie Eyez Lavender Crystal Sunglasses, $24, shopglitterdeath.com.

2. Butrich Sweet Sunshine Platforms, $405, butrich.com. 

3. Jade Clark NoStAIGia Triangle Top and Darci Bottoms in White Smiley, £26 and £45, jade-clark.squarespace.com.

4. L’Atelier de Charlotte Josephine Pink Flower Heel Mules, €200, latelierdecharlotteshop.com.

5. Elsie and Fred Albufeira Jersey Long Line Cardigan, $84.60, elsieandfred.com.

header photo and 3rd  (pool) photo: Lee Jameson

2nd photo : Kasia Szarek

 This interview originally appeared in BUST’s Summer 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

How to choose the right SPF for your skin

Sun care is a year-round skin essential, but summer’s ultra-strong rays and ample outdoors time calls for a full-body overhaul of your sunscreen game plan. First things first: There’s no one-SPF-fits-all option. “Sunscreen use is such a personal preference,” says Dr. Sheila Farhang, MD, a Tuscon-based dermatologist and skin cancer surgeon.

A key differentiating factor is whether to opt for a physical (aka mineral-based) versus chemical sunscreen. “Physical sunscreens formulated with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide have been known to leave a white cast,” Dr. Farhang explains, though newer formulas avoid the chalky finish. Chemical sunscreens can be more sheer and quick-absorbing, but often contain ingredients like oxybenzone, which can be irritating and sensitizing.

Here are Dr. Farhang’s SPF picks for five major needs that will keep you comfortably protected all summer long (and beyond). –Alexandra Ilyashov

Sunscreen for Melanated Skin

Eleven by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum: SPF 35, $50

For deeper complexions, Dr. Farhang loves this lightweight serum “that doesn’t leave a white cast” from Venus Williams’ sun-care line. Test your knowledge on little sis Serena. 

When You’re Prone to Breakouts

EltaMD UV Sheer Broad-Spectrum : SPF 50+, $30

“Actual sunscreen ingredients don’t cause acne, but rather the formulation, so look for ‘oil-free’ and ‘non-comedogenic’” options with thinner consistencies (i.e., sheer or serum) when shopping for sun-care options, suggests Dr. Farhang.

Sensitive Skin SPF

Vanicream Sunscreen: SPF 50, $18

Sensitive skin types should avoid chemical formulas, as well as fragrance and preservatives like parabens. “Vanicream is a brand typically known for those with sensitive skin or contact allergies, and I love that this is a sunscreen, free of ingredients that can irritate the skin,” she explains.

Makeup-Friendly Protection

Supergoop Mineral Mattescreen: SPF 40, $38

Since zinc- and titanium-based sunscreens can make your face look powdery in photos, she recommends “a light or tinted sunscreen, which can function as your foundation,” like this Supergoop option, which creates a “soft mattifying finish, similar to what a primer would do.”

For the Sweat-ers

Blue Lizard Active Mineral Based Sunscreen: SPF 50, $20

Whether you’re headed on a long hike, a snorkeling adventure, or are perspiration-prone, she recommends reaching for “a largely physical sunscreen formulation to avoid irritation or sensitivity, especially while sweating,” with an SPF of 50, like this Blue Lizard pick.

Top photo Angelo Pantazis on Unsplash

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Summer 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

Famed footwear designer John Fluevog has teamed up with textile maven Zandra Rhodes for an epic match a long time in the making. Both designers developed their brands in the ‘70s, and have remained iconic since.

Fluevog gained major notoriety in the early ’90s with his iconic Munster shoe, which featured  the brand’s signature heel shape—thin at the top then flares out into a triangle shape—and a large front buckle. Munster shoes were seen on the feet of everyone from Madonna to Deee-Lite’s Lady Miss Kier. More recently, Fluevog has gone eco-friendly using vegetable tanned leathers and water-based glue.

Dame Zandra Rhodes is known as both the Queen of Color and the Princess of Punk. Famed for her brightly colored prints, her designs have been worn by Princess Diana, Princess Anne, Diana Ross and Paris Hilton. In 2019, she celebrated 50 years in the fashion industry with a retrospective at the Fashion and Textile Museum (which she founded). 

The Fluevog x Zandra Rhodes collection has five new styles in eye-popping prints, which combine new takes on some of Fluevog’s most iconic styles.

The Munster Max: Ruffle Elektra takes Fluevog’s original Munster shoe, but adds a pink ruffle to the buckle, raises the sole and adds a ripple effect to the bottom of the sole. The shoe is black with Rhode’s Dash Wiggle print – wiggly lines made out of tiny dashes – in hot pink.

The Munster Max: Ruffle Lady Miss is light pink with the Dash Wiggle print in hot pink. This take on the Munster is open toed, has a sling back and removes the buckle. 

The Mini: Bips reinvents another Fluevog original style—The Mini, which has a shorter, rounder heel than the Munster. The Bips has a sling back and an open toe and comes in light pink with the Rhodes’ Puzzle Flower print, which has abstract flowers in hot pink with a squiggle design in black. 

The Wiggle Zaza has a closed toe version of The Mini in black with the Dash Wiggle print in hot pink and adds a bright splash of contrasting print with the Wiggle Flower design on a large buckle. The Wiggle Flower is an abstract flower design with curlicues in a combination of pink, yellow and blue.

Derby Swirl is an update on The 7th Heaven, which is Fluevog’s take on a Dr. Martens style boot. It has a pink sole and the base combines Rhode’s Dash Wiggle print in black and hot pink with her Wiggle Flower print—an abstract flower design with curlocues in a combination of pink, yellow and blue. The design of the shoe gives it a tough vibe, and the patterns and colors give the shoe a younger, more playful feeling.

All five of the new designs are so bright and totally unique that you will constantly find yourself saying “Excuse me, my eyes are up here!”

The Fluevog x Zandra Rhodes collection will be available at Fluevog stores everywhere and online at Fluevog.com starting June 10th.

John Fluevog and Zandra Rhodes

All images courtesy Fluevog

In 1989, Queen Latifah and Monie Love dropped “Ladies First,” a feminist anthem for Generation X. That same year, a 20-year-old Claudia Gold hit the streets with spray can in hand, becoming one of the few women writers in the male-dominated world of graffiti, under the name “Claw Money.” Initially written off by the highly political graff world, Gold, a native New Yorker, went hard and earned her rightful place through innovation, dedication, and audacity. She transformed the “W” in “CLAW” into a three-taloned paw, bringing elements of street art to graffiti before it was a thing—an emblem that carried over perfectly to her new career. In 2002, longtime friend West Rubinstein, the mastermind behind Supreme, encouraged Gold to launch CLAW MONEY, her sexy, subversive streetwear brand that stands at the vanguard of fashion, street culture, and underground art. With 20 years in the game, Gold is an icon in her own right.

The first woman to ever design a Nike sneaker, Gold didn’t stop at one—she did two, before going on to work with everyone from Bernie Sanders to NASCAR. Inclusive and expansive before such words were in vogue, Gold has designed Rihanna’s visual identity for Oceans 8, billboard art for Project Runway, and intimate apparel for Calvin Klein—all while running her own company. Gold also had her own boutique on New York’s Lower East Side, just two blocks from where her grandparents were born.“I just made a commercial for the American Heart Association,” Gold says, rattling off an endless list of A-list collab while cruising up the FDR Drive on her way home to the Bronx. She’s just spent the day sourcing reference materials for an athletics company that will be designing what promises to be the freshest 2024 U.S. Olympics Team uniform and was knee-deep in art and photography books. Gold shows no signs of slowing down as she gears up for a year of collabs celebrating her street, fashion, and graffiti roots. “I realized early on my fans are men so it’s my responsibility to deliver feminism to men,” she says. “My life’s work, all this art, is a vehicle to deliver the message to the masses. Everything I do is for women. This is where my heart lies.” –MISS ROSEN

If you’re in NYC this weekend, check out this Girl Power fair she’s organizing. 

Top Photo: Claudia Gold portrait by Kristen Blush

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Summer 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

When I learned that a young Dolly Parton used pokeberries as lipstick, I thought it might be like my own childhood beauty trick for lip stain: popsicles. Wonderskin’s Wonder Blading Peel & Reveal Lip Color Kit ($32, wonderskin.com) has the same effect and comes in over 10 shades. Apply the purple-tinted masque (which makes you look like the opera singer from The Fifth Element), leave it on for 10 to 45 seconds (the longer the more pigmented), then spray the activator to transform it into a peel. The result is a transfer-proof lip stain that young Dolly (and young me) would approve of.-Marie Lodi 

 This piece originally appeared in BUST’s Spring 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

GET THIS LOOK: BY CALLIE WATTS

Thank You for Being a Friend

BRING THE GOLDEN GIRLS STYLE TO THE STREETS THIS SPRING

THE LEGENDARY BEA ARTHUR would have turned 100 this year. What better way to celebrate her memory than dressing like her iconic character from The Golden Girls? Dorothy Zbornak lived in layers, from patterned jackets over cowl-neck shirts to ruana-style tops paired with scarves. Travel down the road and back again with these Dorothy-inspired picks—sans shoulder pads this time around.

SILK RUANA, ECOPRINTED WITH PLANTS AND FLOWERS, $145, THESILKTHREADSHOP.ETSY.COM.

1 PEOPLE BRANSON SILK WHITE LEG PANTS IN MIMOSA, $159, VERISHOP.COM.

SILK SCARF, ECOPRINTED WITH LEAVES AND COLORS FROM NATURE, $45, THESILKTHREADSHOP.ETSY.COM.

PAPARAZZI LET HEIR RIP! BROWN EARRINGS, $5, LAURENSBLING.COM.

SILVER STILETTO CLASSIC HIGH VOLTAGE TONER, $13.99, MANICPANIC.COM.

KEYLICIOUS CHEESECAKE, $39.99, THEFURLOUGHCHEESECAKE.COM.

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Spring 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

Sara Camposarcone 

FASHION MARKETER,@SARACAMPOSARCONE HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CA

Tell me about this outfit.

It’s very springlike. The sleeves are part of a tulle top I’m wearing underneath the dress that I call my “jellyfish” top. The dress itself was handmade for me from vintage bedsheets. I paired it with my favorite Hello Kitty tights, Fluevog shoes, and thrifted earrings. My glasses are prescription, and the necklace I’m wearing is a collection of hand-drawn outfits I’ve worn—it was actually made by the same girl who made my dress!

How would you describe your style?

Bold prints, colors, and textures; very eclectic, sometimes childlike. I like to say “sustainable maximalist” because a lot of what I purchase is secondhand from local thrift stores or reworked pieces that have been turned into something new, like the bedsheets from my dress.

Do you have a favorite piece?

I love my Troll bolo tie, and I have matching Troll earrings as well. I love dressing in a way that makes me feel very nostalgic; I used to collect Trolls when I was younger, and the feeling I get when I wear something like that makes me happy.

How did you arrive at your style?

I’ve always loved dressing myself up, but I got more into this specific look through thrifting—finding pieces that were made long ago, and being able to wear them now, has inspired me a lot. Being in a pandemic has also affected me. At first, I would just wear pajamas or sweatpants every day, and that was a little depressing, so I started dressing in whatever makes me happy. I like to ignore any kind of fashion rules and just have fun with it because it brings me joy, and I feel like, given the situation we’re in now, anything that sparks a bit of joy is a good thing.

Copy The Look 

SPARK YOUR OWN STYLE JOY WITH SOME OF SARA’S PICKS

1. Chopova Lowena Linus Upcycled Printed Pleated Skirt,
$652, matchesfashion.com.

2. Doll Chunk Key Lime Pie Baby Doll Ring,
$125, dollchunk.com.

3. Ottolinger Signature Ceramic Bag,
$505, ottolinger.com

4. Ed Curtis Lizzie Jumper Yellow,
£375, ed-curtis.com.

5. John Fluevog Warhol Multi-Leather Boots,
$599, fluevog.com.

6. Beepy Bella Butterfly Handbag,
$285, beepybella.world.

Photos by Luke Fratesi 

Lizzo, the 33-year-old superstar artist and activist, is reclaiming power for plus-size women by launching her new, all-inclusive shapewear line. “We play by our own rules. We celebrate all bodies” Lizzo states on her brand’s Instagram post, and she is not backing down from creating a brand that “celebrates, hugs, and loves every single body.” Named “Yitty,” the brand’s first release features three collections: “Nearly Naked,” a line of comfy pieces to accentuate your natural curves; “Mesh Me,” a line of bold silhouettes to smooth, tone, and show off your curves; and “Major Label,” a line of everyday wear that fit perfectly in the right places. Her shapewear is designed for all body types from size 6X to XS that can be worn according to how you want to feel: hugged, snugged, snatched or loved. With pieces from bodysuits, leggings, hoodies, briefs, bras, bralettes, and shorts, Yitty features a wide collection of innovative fabrics, bold colors, and stylish silhouettes to choose from. The products are carbon neutral with sustainable packaging and eco-friendly styles, and prices ranging from $19.95 to $89.95.

Lizzo set out to reinvent fashion and what is redefining every beauty standard with her brand. “I’m tired of discomfort being synonymous with sexy, If it’s uncomfortable TAKE IT OFF. And if it feels good PUT IT ON”, Lizzo explains on Instagram. The singer is no stranger to being body-shamed and the challenges that accompany being larger-sized.  In a recent interview, she said, “I was constantly being told through TV and magazines that my body wasn’t good enough” which is something she mentions in a recent bust magazine article on calling out body shamers as she mentions “I’m a body icon.” which she certainly is. She explains her motivation for starting Yitty on the Yitty website. “I was tired of seeing this sad, restrictive shapewear that literally no one wanted to wear. I had an epiphany like, ‘who can actually do something about this?’ I decided to take on the challenge of allowing women to feel unapologetically good about themselves again.”

The term “plus-size” was first used in a 1920 ad for Lane Bryant, the first all-exclusive plus-size store in New York. But until recently, few companies or designers bothered to incorporate plus-sized clothing. In their lines Today, plus-sized women are walking runway shows, appearing in magazines and tv shows, and brands like Yitty are creating clothing that puts the needs and desires of plus-sized customers first. 

Here are 10 other plus-size clothing designers and brands to check out that will make you feel comfortable and confident in your curves :

Tamara Malas

Photo courtesy of Tamara Malas

Tamara Malas was founded on the idea that fashion should be for everyone. With inclusivity at its core for plus-sized women, this brand strives for women to know that “No one is you” and “What you seek is seeking you” Their sizes range from 6 to 32 with each piece handmade and ethical, creating small batches of limited-run collections made from high-quality fabrics, thus creating slow fashion as opposed to the fast-fashion we are used to seeing in the fashion industry. What’s better when for every purchase, Tamara Malas plants a tree and gives back to nature, hence creating a sustainable fashion brand. Their pieces include overcoats, jackets, shirt dresses, pants, camis, dresses, shorts and so much more with the most colorful and unique patterns for you to try on. Some of their pieces include: Yasmine shirt dress ($145), Tess dress ($125), Pilot pants ($155), Karma cami ($50) and Ruby cropped tee ($68).

Ange Sloan

Photo courtesy of Ange Sloan

Ange Sloan, who is featured in the spring 2022 issue of BUST magazine, is the New Zealand-brand designer of Sloan, a size-inclusive and eco-friendly brand. She loves to customize pieces for each person, where the fabric is chosen by them for them to feel seen and appreciated “because all bodies are wonderful”. Every piece has no size on the tag, instead, it would say “made in your size”. She believes that “Clothes are meant to serve us, to make us feel beautiful, confident and comfortable” and wants anyone who wears a piece made by her to feel worthy of wearing it. Her pieces range from dresses, tops, skirts, and sets and she hopes to extend her line with custom shorts and crops to fit everybody.

Curvature Clothing

Photo: Megadot Top by Curvature Clothing

A size-inclusive clothing brand in sizes 6 to 30 ethically made in Radelaide, South Australia. Curvature clothing is founded by Lisa who mentions how “I have been so incredibly bored, frustrated and fed up with the rubbish offerings of fashion for women considered plus-sized” as she found them to be shapeless and boring. Curvature is rooted in “body positivity and female empowerment” and the pieces include dresses, skirts, tops, and tights that do not disappoint. Their pieces include bright colors and bold patterns such as the black and white gingham frock ($140), Black and Dramatic Tulle Peplum Top ($110), mega dot frock ($160), petrol linen skirt ($130) and the retro shapes tee ( $110). 

See ROSE Go

Photo: Riveter Jumpsuit by See ROSE Go

As the name goes, See ROSE Go is a brand that is all about the recognition of women and seeks to See: take notice, recognize, Rose: Feminine, beauty and Go: accomplish. “You have no idea what it is like to shop for my body.” is the statement that catalyzed the formation of the brand and made its primary focus to see plus-sized women embrace their power, chase ambition and make their impact in the world. Their signature collection comes in a wide range of powerful tunics ($148), button down shirts($108), woven shorts ($78). Other products are trailblazer crew sweatshirts ($78), gentlewoman turtleneck ($78), multitasker pants ($118), riverter jumpsuit ($178), the coolest t-shirt ($48), tailored track pant ($140) from sizes 10 to 28. All of these are so classy and comfortable that will truly make you feel so confident about your body.

C’est D

Photo: C’est D Minty Cut-out Blazer

C’est D is a brand based in NYC that is providing choices that the fashion industry is missing for plus-sized women. Their designs are unapologetically designed fashion for all types of bodies promoting body positivity for plus-size women. Their goal is to empower you to love yourself, celebrate body equality and overcome all the negative projections of fatphobia in society. Their clothes range from XXS to 6XL. Their products range from $51 to $111 making all of their clothes very affordable. Some of their products include: Satin lace top ($51), Jewel ruched dress ($63), satin jogger ($57), Lovestruck hoddie ($66) and skye slip dress ($63) Their pieces are so colorful and cool and will definitely leave you feeling happy wearing them.

SmartGlamour

Photo courtesy of SmartGlamour

A brand dedicated to creating clothes you need, empowering you through your clothes and on your journey to accepting your body. SmartGlamour is here to help you move from any shame of your body or any bad experiences of shopping for your size as a plus-sized woman. They include sizes from XXS-15X and beyond, based in NYC it has pieces that are affordable, fashionable and customizable. The founder Mallorie Dunn is an NYC-based fashion designer, business owner, and professor who hopes Smart Glamour to continue growing into a fully realized movement of body liberation and community for women, femme presenting and identifying individuals, and nonbinary folks. You can shop pieces by category such as tops, skirts, pants, overalls, dresses, bodysuits, activewear and style such as style staples, workwear, date night, and wedding occasions.

Christian Omeshun

Photo: Apriel Abstract Backless Maxi by Chistian Omeshun

Founded by A’shontay Hubbard, whose journey to starting the brand began with her struggle to find clothes as a full-figure tall woman. She created the go-to place for all your plus-size garment needs with bold and colorful yet sophisticated plus-sized garments. Regardless of whether you value quality, durability, and timelessness, or whether you prefer staple pieces over trends, Christian Omeshum has it all. Their mission is to provide sophisticated and specialty clothing to women who feel at odds with the dressing room and with the motive that fashion should be inclusive when it comes to curves. Their sizes range from 12 to 32 with collections ranging from Urbane Chic, Sophisticated Minimalist, Persevere, Stunner collection with all of your essentials: dresses, pants, jumpsuits, skirts, swimwear and tops, Christian Omeshum has got you all covered. Some of their pieces include Velvet Neema Essential set ($300), Co pin stripe set ($160), Bella maxi ($150), Co bell bottom pant ($150) and Valentina maxi – abstract ($160).

Loud Bodies

Photo courtesy of loud bodies

Loud Bodies was founded by Patricia Luiza Blaj, who set out to prove that style has no size by creating ethically sustainable clothing in all sizes available to people everywhere. “Real style has no size, and everybody deserves stylish and comfortable clothes in their size,” is the brand’s mission. Her story ties into the brand when she was discouraged with the plain and baggy clothes she found for her size. Hence her mission since then was to show people embrace their bodies and their insecurities which is something we all have. Respect and empowerment are core values that Loud Bodies run on. Something important about them is that all of their packaging don’t come wrapped in plastic but instead is packed in recycled paper. They have a range of pieces in sizes XXS to 10X with blazers, dresses, jumpsuits, pants, scarfs, shirts and skirts in collections for fall, spring, summer, leisurewear and affordable wear. Some of they’re pieces include: Veronica dress red organic cotton ($265), Flora skirt kale linen ($180), Frida dress floral organic cotton ($170) and Joan skirt lavender ecovero ($66).

Zelie for She
 Photo: Zelie for She Sunset Wrap Set

Designed and produced in Los Angeles by designer Elann Zelie, Zelie for She stands for authenticity and individuality. All of their pieces and designs are made in a limited run where each of their collection tells a different story of travel, friendship, women, and empowerment. Elann Zelie found it difficult to express her individuality in the fashion world where there was a limited option for plus-sized women, That was when she fell in love with designing as an art of expressing herself and her identity and allowing other women who wear her pieces to feel safe in themselves and who they are. Zelie for she is a brand from Los Angeles with sizes from 14 – 24.  Some of their collections include: Desert daydreams, LUXE, FUNKADELIC, Bad gal and Spring is in the air.

Opener photo: Yitty, See ROSE go, & Tamara Malas

New Zealand designer Ange Sloan is 100 percent over ready-to-wear’s lack of inclusivity

Ange Sloan, the woman behind Sloan’s size-inclusive and eco-friendly pieces, hasn’t bought a ready-to-wear garment, other than underwear, in two years. The designer, who grew up “falling asleep to the sound of sewing machines” thanks to her mother owning a clothing factory, believes that off-the-rack clothing doesn’t properly fit most bodies. For her, it can also be deeply triggering. “For me, having my eating disorder past, seeing a certain size would either bring me so much joy or so much pain,” she explains. This led to the creation of her namesake fashion brand, which consists of fully customized and inclusive dresses, tops, and skirts that forgo traditional sizing. Instead, the labels read “made in your size.”

Oracle Set in Lemony

“I think, especially with larger brands, if you are not actively being inclusive, it’s just like, what’s the point? People want to give them their money and they’re actively not doing it,” says Sloan. “They know that there are larger bodies, taller bodies, and smaller bodies, but they’re only focusing on what is easy.” 

Sloan isn’t precious about modifying her designs to fit bodies and personal styles. She produces each garment as it’s ordered to each person’s measurements and specifications from her sewing nook. Slightly puffier sleeves? No problem. Midi instead of mini? Sure. “It just makes sense in my heart, having everything made specifically for somebody,” she says. “If I can do it, why not?” Fabric, which is selected by the customer, is locally and ecologically produced linen in classic and neutral tones or vintage prints. And no scraps are wasted—larger offcuts are used to make the reusable drawstring bags garments are shipped in, and even the tiniest bits find a home at area preschool programs for sensory play.

Noelle dress in Snapdragon

Sloan plans to extend her line (available at shopsloan.co.nz) with custom shorts and crops to fit every body. “It’s so amazing when I get a message [from a customer] saying how beautiful they feel [in my clothes], and how they feel seen and appreciated,” she says. “I want everybody to feel welcome and appreciated. Because all bodies are wonderful.” –Chris Ciolli

Yoli Mini Dress in Apia

photos courtesy of sloan

top photo: Ange Sloan, wearing Cove wrap top and Midsommar skirt

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Spring 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

Clothing can be anything the wearer wants it to be, from a symbol of personal expression, to a class signifier, to simply the thing that keeps one protected from the elements. It can also play a part in creating social and political change. In the recently published book Dressing the Resistance: The Visual Language of Protest Through History, author, costume designer, and dress historian Camille Benda explores all the ways in which fashion has been used by women as a tool of activism. From Joan of Arc’s armor to the mere existence of the miniskirt, clothing has always been a powerful instrument for those fighting for change. –Marie Lodi

 15th century 

Joan of Arc wears male military armor after a vision of leading France to war.

Photo: Centre Historique des Archives Nationales, Paris, France/Bridgeman

 1864

Sojourner Truth dresses in Quaker garb to communicate her role as an abolitionist.

Photo: Library of Congress

1916

Irish rebel hero Constance Markievicz designs a uniform for Citizen’s Army women.

Photo: Kilmainham Gaol, Ireland

1960s

British designer Mary Quant helps popularize the liberating miniskirt.

Photo: Everett Collection Historical/Alamy Stock Photo

1965

Middle school student Mary Beth Tinker DIYs anti-Vietnam war armbands.

 Photo: Granger Historical Picture Archive /Alamy Stock Photo

2012

CODEPINK shocks Republicans in pink sequined vulva costumes.

Photo: Granger Historical Picture Archive /Alamy Stock Photo

2012

Russian protest group Pussy Riot sports neon balaclavas and fishnets.

Photo: © PhotoXpress/ZUMAPRESS/Alamy Stock Photo;

2015

Kiran Gandhi runs the London marathon while free bleeding.

Photo: Courtesy of Kieran Gandhi

2019

At the Weinstein trial, protestors wear red lipstick and black mesh across their eyes like blindfolds.

Photo: Reuters/Carlo Allegri

2019

The pink-wearing Gulabi Gang defend women’s rights in India. 

Photo: Joerg Boethling/Alamy Stock Photo

2020

Portland moms attend Black Lives Matter protests wearing yellow to identify themselves. 

Photo: Caitlin Ochs/Reuters

 All images courtesy of Princeton Architectural Press

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Spring 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

The perfect pair for when you wanna roll up with fancy feet. Pearls & Jewels Black Sheer
Ankle Socks, $18, sockcandy.com.

FLOWER WALK WITH ME

These embroidered socks will totally put some spring in your step. Embroidery Mesh Socks in Green, $7, witharmor.etsy.com.

SOLE SEEKER

Inspired by traditional Icelandic sweaters, this design is absolute geometric perfection. Lopi Sweater Salmon Transparent Sheer Socks, $13.99, yusquare.etsy.com.

LOOKING FRESH AS A DAISY

Strap on a pair of Mary Janes over these petal- print socks and start serving big ’90s Drew Barrymore vibes. Sheer Mesh Daisy Socks, $10.50, lunaysolbymaria.etsy.com.

FRUIT BY THE FOOT

Give your feet the SpongeBob SquarePants treatment with a pineapple print under your
knee. Women’s Sheer Fruit Salad Socks in Pineapple, $8.99, sockmate.etsy.com.

STAINED GLASS SLIPPERS

The eyes may be the windows to your soul, but these socks are windows on your soles. Ozone Design: Women’s Socks in Waterlilies FLW Sheer, $30, keiandmolly.com.

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Spring 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

 LEARN HOW TO GET THE LINDA LINDAS’ LITERAL CAT-EYE LOOK

MAKEUP ARTIST VALERIE VONPRISK created this clever eyeliner design for the band the Linda Lindas, which they wore in their “Growing Up” music video. “Because the Linda Lindas love cats so much—they have cats in their songs and cat merch—the video’s director asked me to incorporate some sort of creative cat-inspired look for the eye makeup. Thus, the kitty liner was born!” The band’s new album, also called Growing Up, will be out April 8 on Epitaph Records. -Kerry-Anne Loughman

HERE ARE VONPRISK’S DIRECTIONS FOR ACHIEVING THE ULTIMATE “KITTY LINER” LOOK:

1. Clean the eye area and get rid of any excess oils. If you have eyelids with a lot of creases, use a transparent/clear eyeshadow base. I like to use MAC Prep + Prime Eye Base ($25, maccosmetics.com) for its transparency.

 2. Use a gel eyeliner, like MAC Fluidline in Blacktrack ($19, maccosmetics.com), and a small, pointy artist’s brush, like the MAC 210 Synthetic Precise Eye Liner Brush ($21, maccosmetics.com) to draw a half-moon on your eyelid. This is the body of the kitty. You want it to subtly peek out when your eye is open without it being too overwhelming.

3. For the kitty tail, just draw a nice, long line from the outer corner of the kitty body towards your temple. Have fun with it: You can curl it up, make it straight, draw it thin, or lay it thick, do whatever you want!

 4. Take your brush and draw an “M” shape (or an “11” with a “V” in the middle) from your inner eye up to almost the beginning of your eyebrow. This is the kitty head and ears. Make sure the ears are nice and pointy! When your eyes are open, it should almost look like eyelashes on the inner part of your eye.

5. The final touch–the kitty eyes–can have a huge effect on the look. Make sure you use a water-resistant or waterproof paint to dot two eyes on the kitty head. I like to use MAC Acrylic Paint in Primary Yellow ($23, maccosmetics.com). If you want to add extra oomph, line your waterline and curl your lashes.

The Final Look

Growing Up, the debut album by the Linda Lindas, is out now. 

Photographed by Jeaneen Lund

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Spring 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

Ichi Japan Dress; David Yurman Elements Pendant and Ring. 

Manuelle Guibal Dress; David Yurman Angelika Bracelet; Handmade Headpiece: Stylist’s Own.

  Alabama Blonde Jacket And Trouser; Re/Done Tank; Tamara Mellon Heels.

Sorapol London Dress; David Yurman Rings and Necklace; Vintage Shoes, Headpiece, and Gloves: Stylist’s Own.

Shop Alice Nashville Blouse; David Yurman Necklace.

Staud Dress; David Yurman Necklace.

Stine Goya Dress; Vintage Headpiece and Socks: Stylist’s Own.

Photographed by Diana King
Styled by Amanda O’Connor
Makeup by Janelle Wood
Hair by Giovanni Delgado

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Spring 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

Bewitching Prods 

We are suckers for a good-smelling bar soap, and the women at Sea Witch Botanicals deliver—like the absinthe-scented Green Fairy and the patchouli-citrus Hermitage ($14 each, seawitchbotanicals.com). All their goods (which include bath, body, and home products, too) are handmade, cruelty-free, and sustainably packaged, “made with the health of your body and the environment in mind.” –Lisa Butterworth

Cuckoo for Coco 

Talent runs in the Fennell family. You probably know writer, actor, and Promising Young Woman director Emerald, but her sister, Coco, makes eye-popping dresses you’ve likely spied on at least one cool celeb—everyone from Rihanna to Busy Philipps loves her bright patterns, balloon sleeves, and sexy silhouettes. The best part? They’re sold at regular-people prices: nothing’s over £149(cocofennell.com). 

Happy Mending 

When it comes to creative clothing fixes, Scottish knitwear designer Flora Collingwood-Norris is a stitching star. Her new book, Visible Creative Mending for Knitwear (£28, collingwoodnorrisdesign.com), gives you the know-how to slay your own repairs, from colorful darning to fixing frayed cuffs, all with cheerful design in mind. 

Pant Rant 

I like Big Bud and I cannot lie. The L.A.-based clothing brand offers all kinds of incredibly wearable basics in a rainbow of colors in sizes XXS to 6XL, but it’s their Work Pants ($105, bigbudpress.com) that are absolute perfection. The fabric is soft but sturdy and they’ve got elastic in the back for ultimate high-waist comfort—they’re go-with-everything gold. 

Wear Your Fruits and Veggies

Elizabeth Woll’s jewelry has the vibe of vintage Bakelite with a totally modern feel. Her cute and colorful fruit and veggie earrings ($45 to $55, wolljewelry.com) even offer a choose-your-own adorable adventure: pick the size (small, medium, large), the findings (silver or gold), and the style (post or ear hook), too. 

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Spring 2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

 I am a notorious nail biter. The only way I can curb craggy tips and cuticles (like, serious Black Swan-level horror) is to keep my fingernails polished. But salon manicures are pricey and time consuming and when I paint my nails at home, I always smudge them. Enter semi-cured gel nails. Instead of going on as a liquid like a regular gel manicure—which turns glossy and impossible to chip under a UV light—semi-cured gels are basically soft nail stickers that need only a minute of UV light to get that shell-like shine. I tried a few kinds to see if these gellies could be my gnarly nails’ salvation. 

First things first: prep work is important.

You gotta push your cuticles back, use the included alcohol-soaked towelette to remove any oils, and rough up your nails a bit with a file so the gels stick better. But from there, it’s super easy. 

I tried Glaze from Dashing Diva first (influenced by the fact that Lana Condor is the “face” of Glaze). They come in a bunch of different solid colors (six shades of white alone) and a few patterned ones, too. For $10 (dashingdiva.com/collections/glaze) you get 34 stickers of varying sizes, enough for two manicures. They’re a cinch to put on and don’t wrinkle. After trimming them to the length of your natural nail with nail scissors or clippers (the hardest part cause my nails are so gd short!), you finish curing them with a small UV-lamp (free with your first nail purchase) that plugs into a USB port. In 45 seconds they are thick and glossy. Choosing the right sticker size is crucial—err on the smaller side—and make sure to press them down firmly all over. A couple of stickers overlapped my cuticle on my first go-round and didn’t properly adhere. Turns out, popping off at-home gels is nearly as satisfying as nail biting. 

PressOn’s Nail Gellies ($49 for a starter pack, $16 for a single set of 20 nails, pressonshop.com) work in much the same way. These stickers are thinner, though, and look a bit more natural. PressOn offers fewer solid colors, but more patterns and designs, including animal prints and geometric lines. The process also includes an extra step: a topcoat that goes over the sticker before you UV it. It’s optional, but helps a lot with longevity. 

Final verdict: Even when properly adhered, semi-cured nails don’t last nearly as long as a regular gel mani, and they don’t look quite as nice either, since it’s hard to find the perfect size for each nail. But they’re affordable, easy to use, don’t smudge, and gave my cuticles time to heal, which pretty much nailed my reason for trying them in the first place. –Lisa Butterworth 

photos: Courtesy of Dashing diva  (Dasahing Diva GLAZE); Courtesy of Presson (Presson’s Nail Gellies]

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Winter 2021/2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

Costume designer Cristina Spiridakis gives a behind-the-scenes peek at how TV’s looks are created 

There’s often a misconception that costume designers swoop onto a TV set with a rack of perfectly picked out clothes for the main actors and then just as swiftly leave. But getting the costumes just right—whether that’s layers of authentic-looking period garb or the perfect flannel and pair of jeans—is a collaborative process that begins weeks before filming, involves excessive amounts of research and shopping, endless fittings, makeshift dressing stations, and countless hours on set. “[Costuming for] television is a marathon at a sprint’s pace, it never slows down. Every day is different,” says Emmy-nominated, N.Y.C.-based costume designer Cristina Spiridakis, who worked her way up from costume production assistant on shows like 30 Rock to assistant costume designer on Orange Is the New Black to running the show on Difficult People, High Maintenance, Betty, and now the new Queer as Folk reboot. If she’s doing her job right, her work fits so seamlessly into the show it often goes unnoticed. “Which is the point! It’s a lot of sweat and tears that folks don’t see,” she says. “But I love it more than anything.” Here, she walks us through what really goes into dressing the characters on our favorite shows. -Nina Karina

Cristina Spiridakis

I have four to six weeks of prep before filming. The first days are a flurry of building my office, a million meetings, setting up the credit cards and the different accounting procedures. On a recent project, our costume office was an empty restaurant, and we made the old manager’s office the fitting room. It’s not as glamorous as everyone thinks. And then there’s acquiring all the clothes. Though studios tend to have accounts in all the major stores, I always prefer thrifting for pieces because they look more unique and lived in. We have people whose whole jobs are to make clothes look worn by dyeing them and scruffing up sneakers. Sandpaper is good, and “schmere sticks”—they look like deodorant, but they’re basically dirt. When the costume office is all set up it looks like a store and all the actors have their “closets”: each outfit’s in a garment bag, labeled with specific scene details.

1) The Rise and Shine 

On mornings when we’re shooting in N.Y.C., I wake up between 3 and 5 a.m. Courtney Wheeler, my assistant designer who I’ve been working with for the past five years, will meet me at my place and we’ll go across the street to get coffee at our favorite bodega, Merci Market,  before heading to set. I always prefer to drive us to set no matter where we’re located because it gives us time to catch up and do the time Tetris of what the day is gonna be like.

2) The Set-Up

In television they tend to cast actors very late, and then it’s a frenzy. Most of the time, we’ll fit cast members a few days before shooting, but sometimes it’s the day before.

3) A Perfect Fit

The fitting process not only helps us better visualize what outfits work best for each character and scene, but also makes us aware of what items we need to tailor or make from scratch. After a fitting we submit photos to the directors, showrunners, sometimes the studio, they make a choice, and we have to have it ready for set the next day.

It’s one of the best parts of the job, getting to contribute to the visual fabric of a film and the actor’s experience of becoming their character.

For fittings, Courtney makes specific playlists based on who or what clothes we’re fitting. It’s the best way to get the actor in the mood and it’s a great icebreaker. 

4) Getting Dressed 

The first time an actor wears their full outfit on set, I will always be there to make sure every detail is in place. That can mean rolling up the sleeves a certain way or making sure the outfit is the right level of disheveled. This is called “establishing.” I’m there until they roll on that costume and then beyond that point it is the wardrobe department’s responsibility to make sure it looks the same every take. Once a look is established, I can go work on other things. But if we’re block shooting, which means shooting several episodes at the same time to take advantage of a location, there’s constant establishing, and I can’t leave. When I do leave set, it doesn’t mean my team and I go home. It means we go shopping or set up for upcoming fittings or go to meetings for the next episode and on and on. We usually work until 9 p.m., which means an average day is 14 hours. Then we go to sleep, get up, and do it all over again. 

photos by Stephanie Mei-Ling/HBO (BETTY); Cristina Spiridakis

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Winter 2021/2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

Every print issue of BUST brings a chat with a new fashionista about their personal style, as part of our Fashion Nation series. In this past Winter 2021/2022 issue, we spoke with Salt Lake City-based author Mackenzi Lee (@themackenzilee). 

Alright, tell me about this outfit because I love it. 

The main piece is from Maria Queen Maria on Etsy, the shop of independent Bulgarian designer Mina Kaye. I’m obsessed with the return of the ’90s, and by ’90s, I mean 1890s. The necklace is actually three necklaces that I layered on top of each other, which I’m becoming more confident doing—kind of mixing pieces. The boots I thrifted. I’ve become big on second-hand shopping as thrifting has become more of an option online. 

Courtesy of Mariah Wall

How would you describe your style? 
My style is evolving and realizing that there’s no right way to do anything. Androgynous doesn’t have to mean colorless, and masculine doesn’t have to mean I can’t wear it. Feminine doesn’t mean it has to be a skirt and a traditional 1950s silhouette. The last couple of years for me have really been about challenging my own preconceptions about what I am allowed to wear. 

Who are your biggest fashion influences? 
There’s a Singaporean fashion blogger named Esther Quek. She wears a lot of men’s silhouettes and men’s suits but in really bright colors. She’ll also wear a really tailored, fitted blazer with a beautiful tulle skirt, and I love the interplay of masculine and feminine in her style. I also love Iris Apfel—just the fearlessness of her aesthetic and the total disregard for any rules. 

How do you decide which outfits are Insta-worthy? Any criteria? 
I try to dress every day like it’s an outfit I’d put on Instagram. But it’s really about how I feel in an outfit. There are some days that I get up and throw clothes on without thinking about it, and I’m like, “I feel really good,” and I want to document that. Taking pictures of my clothes feels like a way of telling people about myself in the same way that a bio or caption would. 

The Nobleman’s Guide to Scandal and Shipwrecks, the final book in Mackenzi Lee’s New York Times Bestselling Monatague Siblings series, is out now. Find out more at mackenzilee.com.

Copycat

Disregard the rules with a few of Mackenzi’s faves!

1. Kiki Clothing Kimono Cap Sleeve Dress, $273, wolfandbadger.com.
2. Julia Bo Hendrick Derbies, $145, juliabo.com.
3. Studio Cult Binder Clip Bag, $115, studiocult.com.
4. Julia Allert Designer Midi Dress with Belt in Bright Yellow, $241, wolfandbadger.com.
5. Goldmeise Statement Chain Hello, €49, goldmeise.com.
6. Kat Maconie Lucie Boots, £310, katmaconie.com

Photographed by Mariah Wall 

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Winter 2021/2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

In their mission to create ‘unique soles for unique souls’— footwear designer John Fluevog, has created a new and freshly daring shoe and accessory collection, that takes inspiration from the life and virtuosity of legendary Rock God, Jimi Hendrix. This collection is not only a vibrant, and truly electric celebration of all the art and sole of rock and roll, but one that inspires with a look as fierce and bold as Hendrix himself. 

John Fluevog’s shoes have been named one of the world’s most innovative companies in the fashion industry by business experts Fast Company; and beloved by us here at BUST as well. They are now celebrating an impressive 50 year anniversary as a company, and with the release of their new Jimi Hendrix Footwear Collection— Fluevog continues to manifest their tasteful reputation. 

Upon its release earlier today, John and the Fluevog Design Team worked directly with Jimi’s family in order to create their intimate collection of boots, belts, bracelets— as well as a bag.

One of their main center pieces is Fluevog’s brazen, and totally eye-popping platform boot— The Stand Up Electric Lady. She is tall in spunk with her silk scarf lacing and custom velvet colourways— certainly made for the confident heart.

The Stand Up Electric Lady platform boot, Fluevog

Jimi’s own handwriting is also immortalized into the burnout velvet used within the collection, seen also in their new square-toed ankle boot, The Tudor Jimi. This boot features a delicate, braided appliqué that is offered in similar velvet colors, and gold embroidery. 

The Tudor Jimi ankle boot, Fluevog

The Tudor Jimi ankle boot, Fluevog

“If ever a product line has drawn from the very essence of the Hendrix experience, this one has,” said Jimi’s sister Janie in regards to the new Fluevog collection which she helped develop. 

“Fluevog has truly grasped the signature style and energy of Jimi and created pieces that could very well have come out of his closet….the “wow effect” that Jimi unveiled every time he appeared is definitely there! Each intricate detail is a bold expression of his sense of fashion. I’ve long been a fan of John Fluevog’s designs and I’m absolutely smitten with what we have worked together to create. I think the world will be equally dazzled!”

Photo: Tony Gale / © Authentic Hendrix, LLC

John Fluevog speaks pleasantly about his opportunity to connect to the Hendrix family, saying it was a ‘privilege to be connected to such a cultural icon as Jimi.’

“We went deep into Jimi’s clothes, style and overall journey,” said Fluevog. “And I can envision him swinging down the streets of London in this collection looking perfect. We’re so proud of it and we’d like to think Jimi would approve.”

To check out Fluevog’s full Jimi Hendrix collection, go to the Fluevog website, or visit their stores nationwide.

Top Photo:Tony Gale / © Authentic Hendrix, LLC 

When it comes to comfort— there is no accessory more comfortable than a pair of slippers. A fuzzy, and totally cozy alternative to those ‘real shoes,’ that also pairs great with your current 3-day-a-week sweatpants routine.

And with these cold winter days, slippers definitely become a necessity for a complete comfort fit. So whether you are working from home, or your partner complains too much about your cold feet (me), there is a whole world of fuzzy and fleecy slippers for you to obsess over.

Wild Thing

Sure, the Velcro crisscross leopard print is a major look (and majorly soft), but the cute, slightly lifted sole is actually orthotic, absorbing shock and reducing the stress on your feet, ankles, and knees. 

Relax Slipper in Natural Leopard, $69.95, vionicshoes.com. 

Rock a Moc

If you are often walking to the mailbox or running quick errands and need your house shoes to pull double-duty, this is the pair for you. Super soft sheepskin lining will keep your feet warm and comfy, but the hardsole means you can wear them out and about. 

Women’s Sheepskin Hardsole Moc in Grey, $69.95, minnetonkamoccasin.com. 

Wonder Women

It’s hard to persist when your feet are cold. These slips are handmade from the coziest chenille yarn and adorned with customizable Rosie the Riveter-inspired patches—choose from five different appliques featuring “We Can Do It” women.

Strong Women Slippers, $42, pahhhsslippershop.etsy.com.

Bomb Shell

Half slipper, half sock, and totally cute. The fresh colors help combat the winter blues, while the grippy bottom keeps your feet from sliding. Plus, for each pair bought, a pair of socks is donated to a homeless shelter.

Women’s Gripper Slipper in Melon, $40, bombas.com.

Cool Wool 

The bright, natural-rubber soles of these sustainably made wool slippers are dyed with chemical-free food coloring. Being environmentally conscious has never felt so cozy. 

Woolpops in Frog Green, $69.99, us.giesswein.com.

 PHOTOS: Vionic, Minnetonka, Pahhhs Slipper Shop, Bombas, Giesswein

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Winter 2021/2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

Photo: Emil Costrut

Big bows, heart-shaped keyholes, and lots and lots of ruffles are a few of the hallmarks of Romanian designer Patricia Luiza Blaj and her ultra-femme line Loud Bodies. When the former influencer couldn’t find clothes she liked in her size, she decided to make them, which is why her romantic pieces ($60 to $355, loudbodies.com) come in sizes XXS to 10XL. –lisa butterworth

Magic Wand

Photo: athrbeauty.com

We first shouted out sustainable, vegan beauty brand ĀTHR when they launched in early 2020, and they’ve finally released the prod I’ve been waiting for. The Big Bang Mascara ($28, athrbeauty.com) gives great lash and features a biodegradable wand housed in 100 percent recycled ocean plastic. –l.b.

Spellbinding Smells

Photo: blackearthbotanica.com

“Herbalist, heathen, and hedgewitch” Janine Hagal is the Oakland-based alchemist behind Black Earth Botanica, which makes intoxicating all-natural anointing oils inspired by astrology, the zodiac, the elements, and even pagan holidays ($35 to $45, blackearthbotanica.com). The rosewood, orris, almond, and orange blossom of Libra is my go-to, but Air’s palo santo, lavender, clary sage, and mint is a close second. –l.b.

Hair Flair

Photo: Michelle Norris

Claws, clips, barrettes, headbands, and more—Chunks makes them and I want them all ($5 to $18, chunks.shop). Tiffany Ju launched the Seattle-based hair accessories brand in 2019 and she designs all the bright, chunky (duh) pieces—made of plant-based acetate instead of standard plastic—that are like serotonin for your tresses. –l.b.

Serving Face

Photo: Christian Soria

L.A.-based jewelry designer Laura Estrada has been breaking the bounds of face jewelry since 2018. Though her most conceptual pieces are custom made, she also creates beautifully rendered earrings, necklaces, rings, and more ($65 to $278, lauraestradajewelry.com). Inspired by nature and art history, Estrada uses ancient metalsmithing techniques to create sculptural adornments that are both delicate and edgy, worn by everyone from Zendaya to Tess Holiday to Rico Nasty. –nina karina

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Winter 2021/2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

Fashion’s hottest 2022 trends are strutting in, and they are revolutionizing the modern wardrobe. More than a fleeting style rush, these trends not only look good — they do good.

Sustainable fashion is the movement for environmental integrity within the fashion footprint. It is the progressive, yet stylish protection of our planet that addresses and reacts to issues such as CO2 emissions, pollution, and overproduction.

Fast fashion has a major impact on the environment. It is responsible for about one-third of all microplastics found in the ocean, and is producing 20% of global water waste, with 85% of all textiles winding up in landfills every year.

This topic of conversation has sat at the popular table for some time. Many fast fashion brands have announced their commitments towards a more environmentally friendly approach, seeming to celebrate a sense of brand vulnerability and self-awareness. Brands like H&M and Zara have recently pulled up a chair, following their announcements in 2017 and 2019.

H&M continues to push for their mission to be 100% sustainable by 2030, alongside Zara in their commitment to use 100% sustainable cellulosic fibers for responsible viscose, along with the absolute eradication of single-use plastics, and the complete adoption of green-only packaging by 2023, according to Vogue. And with the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic, the retail industry has now completely been turned on its head.

From economic shutdowns, and the rise of digitized shopping, consumers are now analyzing their own personal fashion footprint as well. Perhaps pushing for a more permanent, environmentally conscious movement in 2022. A trend that may never go out of style.

“Thanks to COVID-19 the entire industry has been disrupted,” said Forbes. “People working at home, the absence of social life, and economic uncertainty mean clothing sales are plummeting. Production has stopped; supply chains have shut down. At the same time, more and more consumers are voicing their concerns about the industry’s impact on the planet.”

And now businesses are now realizing this too. That perhaps the weight of success between looking good, and doing good, is actually an equal scale.

So in an effort to help join this sustainable movement in our own personal closets, we are giving you the sustainable shopping trends to watch for in 2022. Giving your closet the earth-loving-climate-aiding-but-still-totally-stylish-makeover it deserves.

1. Mushroom Leather

Animal leather is out, and mushroom leather is in. With its rise in luxury fashion over the past year, this vegan alternative has the potential to not only save millions of animals, but serve as an educational movement that can help aid the climate crisis.

In the United States, around 159 million animals are slaughtered each year for the leather industry. So by this logic, a sustainable alternative like mushroom leather seems like a fashion-no-brainer right? And in sum— it proves to be.  

Unsplash/ Anne Nygård

Bolt Threads, a biomaterials company working with mushroom leather, has pushed this sustainable conversation further, through their recent collaboration with Stella McCartney’s mushroom leather handbag, shown at Paris fashion week. Stella McCartney has also dropped peaks at their fungi inspired collection for summer 2022. 

Alongside Stella McCartney, many other brands have boarded this sustainable fashion train, with the development of their own mushroom leather products like Adidas, Kering and Lululemon. 

Adidias and Lululemon have already made announcements with their mushroom leather products, with Adidas’ mushroom leather shoes, and Lululemon’s mushroom leather yoga mat— both talked to be released hopefully later this year. Bolt Threads leaves consumers impatiently waiting for more confirmed drops in 2022, according to their website.

Indeed, many brands have already made an asset of this sustainable zeal, but how permanent is the future of mushroom leather within the industry? 

In a recent interview with The Guardian, Dr. Matt Scullin, CEO of biomaterials company MycoWorks, alongside biologist and author Merlin Sheldrake, discuss their predictions on mushroom leather heading into 2022, and how it could be the ultimate sustainability gamechanger to “unlock a future of design.” 

“We have been trained as consumers to think in terms of a straight line whereby we buy something, use it and throw it away,” said Sheldrake to The Guardian. “Fungi can inform thinking about fashion on lots of levels… this is about material innovation, but it’s also about the culture of making endless new things, and what we can learn from thinking in terms of nature and of cycles instead.”

2. Shopping Local 

Unsplash/ Tim Mossholder

Shopping at our local boutiques has repeatedly been discussed to have a significant positive impact on the planet and our local economy— from employing local people, sourcing local materials, and minimizing our carbon footprint. And due to COVID-19, the praising of shopping locally continues to be a rising trend for 2022. And why is that you may ask? Put simply: consumer behavior is evolving.

With many businesses forced to shut-down during the pandemic, consumers have taken time to reevaluate and reflect on their shopping values. Values that have sent echoing waves of support and encouragement for small businesses within their local communities. 

According to a recent QuickBooks survey, more than 9 in 10 (93%) of shoppers said that supporting small businesses is more important than ever due to the pandemic. 

Building those more personable relationships seems to be a desired factor within individual shopping experiences; perhaps due to the social distancing mandates that have us in short supply of face-to-face interaction.

The importance of supporting Black-owned businesses for example, has been a trending conversation within this shift. The pandemic has set back many Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) businesses, however their progress is being fiercely nurtured within their communities. 

According to reports from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Amazon recently launched the Black Business Accelerator program in 2021, committing to provide mentorship, marketing, and promotional support to Black-owned third-party sellers. Alongside, Sephora invited eight brands with BIPOC founders to participate in their six-month Accelerate Incubator Program to help participants master their business skills. Many other brands like Macy’s and Target have also joined the movement in their partnerships with Black-owned businesses as well. 

And even with these larger companies responding to the wake up call of involving themselves within their target communities, finding our own local boutiques to partner and shop with as consumers, should—and always— remain on trend too.

3. Capsule Wardrobing

Unsplash/ Alexandra Gorn

From our army of lounge sets and basic tees, to retreating to that one blazer for your daily Zoom meeting, it is no secret that the pandemic has transformed our wardrobes to become full of a gray, white, black, and beige camouflaged ‘minimalism.’ 

Perhaps now introducing the possibility and deeper realization that our outfits actually work for multiple occasions. So maybe that one blazer is actually a two-for-one deal that serves as a stylish girls night outfit accessory? And maybe that lounge set can be paired with more than just your house slippers? 

This trend of mixing and matching of clothing does have a name for 2022, and she is better known as— capsule wardrobing. 

And while this trend appears to be rising in 2022, it dates all the way back to the 1970s. 

Susie Faux, Founder of the London clothing boutique Wardrobe, coined the term and dressed it in stylish, individual confidence. She described capsule wardrobing to be “the collection of a few essential items of clothing that don’t go out of fashion, such as skirts, trousers, and coats, which can then be augmented with seasonal pieces,” according to Refinery29. The idea became mainstream once designer Donna Karen created the first capsule collection in 1985— “Seven Easy Pieces.”

By resourcing the same sweater or jacket for multiple outfits and multiple seasons, not only are you pocketing some extra coffee shop funds, but you are also helping to promote slow fashion, and therefore minimizing your carbon footprint.

Layers, for example, are a great capsule wardrobe trick. From pairing a turtleneck top with a button-up and jewelry (currently my 5-day-a-week fit); or a beige trench coat with a simple sweater, jeans, and black boots. These are items that many of us can find in our current wardrobes already. And I mean isn’t that the idea?

Capsule wardrobing allows people to filter out the trending distractions that are caused by the fast fashion industry. It alters our shopping patterns, and with sustainability being a popular conversation leading up to 2022, I am not surprised capsule wardrobing made the list.

However, a capsule wardrobe does not necessarily mean ‘basic and beige.’ Rather it simply encourages the idea of searching for those everyday pieces that pair well together, then minimizing the rest. So maybe that one floral dress you wore one time back in 2015 (and thus never wearing again) can be donated. Now making more room for that vintage sweater, band tee, or whatever else you adore.

4. Secondhand Fashion and The Use of Recycled Textiles 

Unsplash/ Edward Howell

By now, many of us are aware of the issues surrounding the disposal of the short-lived, low quality products within fast fashion. The industry is responsible for around 8 percent of global climate impacts— according to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation (EPA).

However, with post-pandemic business models pushing for growth within the sustainable fashion realm, it is of course only natural that a movement for secondhand fashion is forecasted in 2022. 

Secondhand fashion is the repurposing of old, used clothing. For example, the use of recycled textiles— a sustainable process that gives life back to old clothing fabrics, and overall helps limit raw material exploitation and reduces textile waste. 

Many brands and social media users have already immersed themselves in such clothing practices. From DIY clothing hacks, to sharing their latest social media ‘thrifting tips’— the world of retail is embracing a total fashion revitalization.  

And of course in this conversation, we can’t help but list one of our favorite sustainable textile brands— Suay Sew Shop, featured in our Winter 2021 print edition of BUST. 

Since 2017, Suay Sew Shop founders Lindsay Rose Medoff and Tina Dosewell, along with production manager Silvia Acevedo, have embraced the movement for reusable textile shopping. 

“Suay is here to be a pillar of support to help the community engage in reuse,” says Medoff. 

Which is also the reason they offer many other services such as garment alteration and customization and memory-quilt making, along with monthly community dye baths— allowing their clients the opportunity to mail in or drop off clothing items that need refreshing. 

According to the popular thrifting site thredUp, the secondhand retail market is predicted to double within the next five years. Overall growing eleven times faster than the broader retail clothing sector by 2025, with millions of first time secondhand shoppers joining the movement during the pandemic.

“Society places value on having the latest styles over sustainability,” said WhoWhatWear Editor, Jasmine Fox-Suliaman. “One day, I looked at my closet and realized it was filled with disposable pieces I didn’t love, so I decided to change the way I shop. My solution was to start buying quality secondhand pieces over fast fashion. It turns out great style doesn’t have to cost a pretty penny.”

It has become no secret that sustainability matters to consumers. Offering a funky and fun shopping experience that makes us feel good about our purchases. But 2022’s sustainable fashion trends are proving to be more than just a way to shop. It is audacious and quirky. It is a confidence rooted in a 20 dollar outfit from a thrift store. It is saving the planet one vintage sweater at a time, but even more so— it is a lifestyle.

TOP PHOTO: Unsplash/ Jess @ Harper Sunday

RICK OWENS COAT; GOYA SANDALS; KULE HAT, SWEATER, AND SOCKS.

MELITTA BAUMEISTER JACKET AND SKIRT; ZANKOV SWEATER; RAINBOW UNICORN BIRTHDAY SURPRISE EARRINGS.

ISABEL MARANT ETOILE COAT; HEAVEN BY MARC JACOBS SHIRT AND PANTS; KULE SOCKS; GOYA SANDALS.

BALENCIAGA COAT; STINE GOYA VEST; NORMA KAMALI TURTLENECK; RAINBOW UNICORN BIRTHDAY SURPRISE EARRINGS.

BALENCIAGA PUFFER JACKET; ZANKOV SWEATER; TIGHTS: STYLIST’S OWN.

STINE GOYA COAT; ZANKOV SWEATER AND CARDIGAN; ACNE HAT; FALKE TIGHTS; TIBI SHOES.

APPARIS COAT; MARIMEKKO KNIT HOODIE; NORMA KAMALI JUMPSUIT; ECHO HAT. 

Photographed by Meredith Jenks

Styled by Stephanie Tricola  @honeyartists

Makeup by LB Charles

Hair by Miok for Amika Pro

Model: Stacy Collado

This spread originally appeared in BUST’s Winter 2021/2022 print edition. Subscribe today!

Wednesday night’s Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Fashion Awards pulled out all the stops as Hollywood’s starlets stepped out in jaw-dropping ensembles. Dubbed the “Oscars of Fashion,” this year’s event honored Zendaya as the youngest recipient of the CFDA Fashion Icon award. The affair was hosted by A-list actress Emily Blunt and CFDA chairman and luxury designer Tom Ford. This year’s awards saw a shift towards inclusivity by recognizing BIPOC designers. Some of the recipients included Edvin Thompson for American Emerging Designer of the Year, Emily Bode-Aujla for Womenswear Designer of the Year, and Harlem-born trendsetter Dapper Dan, who made history as the first Black designer to win the Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic red carpet looks from your favorite celebs!

1. Fiery Fashion Icon: Zendaya

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Zendaya (@zendaya)

This year’s Fashion Icon Award recipient is known for her diverse style moves, from colorful vintage Versace to skin-tight minimalism. The Dune actress rocked the red carpet in a fiery red Vera Wang bandeau crop top paired with a bubble-waist maxi skirt. Not to mention, her beau Tom Holland just had to post this beauty to his Insta feed.

2. Anya Taylor-Joy: Face of the Year

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Anya Taylor-Joy (@anyataylorjoy)

The Queen’s Gambit star channeled 1950s vintage in a royal purple Oscar de la Renta blazer mini dress, paired with a leopard print cap and gloves. Taylor-Joy has been thrust into stardom over the last few years, from starring in the M. Night Shyamalan thriller Split to Miss Emma Woodhouse in the period drama Emma. When you hear “Face of the Year,” Anya Taylor-Joy’s stunning complexion is a no-brainer. 

3. Best Media Honor: Nina Garcia

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Nina Garcia (@ninagarcia)

Elle magazine editor-in-chief Nina Garcia was recognized last night with the Best Media award. The Project Runway judge walked the red carpet in a floor-length black Michael Kors dress, plunging neckline included. 

4. Here Comes the Bride: Kid Cudi

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Willis (@kidcudi)

Wedding bells are ringing, and Kid Cudi is the picture-perfect bride. Following the movement of genderfluid clothing, Cudi arrived in a lacy white bridal gown curated by ERL designer Eli Russell Linnetz. Paired with an ivory blazer, Black Jesus necklace, and neon-pink hair, Kid Cudi’s look paid homage to the late Nirvana singer Kurt Cobain.

5. Orange Is the New Black: Emily Blunt

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Emily Blunt (@emilybluntofficial)

Our 2021 CFDA Awards host Emily Blunt stepped out in one of her boldest looks yet. The Quiet Place star was glowing in a tangerine orange pantsuit from designer, and nominee, Christopher John Rogers. This elevated business casual was the perfect blend of high fashion and playful street style. 

6. Squid Games Couture: HoYeon Jung

HoYeon Jung has arrived to the 2021 #CFDAAwards. See more from tonight’s red carpet: https://t.co/e8dNDDGi6C pic.twitter.com/KghOwsQADN

— Vogue Magazine (@voguemagazine) November 11, 2021

After reaching superstardom from her breakout role in Netflix’s widely-popular Squid Games, HoYeon Jung walked the CFDA carpet in a drapey silhouette. The newly-appointed Louis Vuitton brand ambassador was fit in a Grecian-inspired black dress paired with chunky open-toe sandals. 

7.  LBD: Karlie Kloss

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Karlie Kloss (@karliekloss)

Karlie Kloss may be a retired Victoria Secret Angel, but this 6’2” model knows how to walk the walk. Going for a classic LBD, Kloss sported a knee-length Khaite Rya dress and accessorized with strappy black heels and effortless blonde waves. 

8. Black Velvet: Ciara

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Ciara (@ciara)

Weeks following her iconic Selena Halloween tribute costume, this early 2000s R&B queen worked the CFDA carpet in a sophisticated, sexy ensemble. Ciara wore a black Tom Ford dress with a corset structure to snatch in her waist. Along with a tousled blonde up-do, this look screams classic.

9. Wrapped in a Bow: Dove Cameron

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by DOVE (@dovecameron)

Sporting newly-dyed brown locks, former Disney star Dove Cameron made her appearance on the red carpet in tulle upon tulle. This sheer white Carolina Herrera gown is accessorized with a statement black bow and smokey winged eyeshadow that gives her eyes to kill.

10. Supermodel Status: Iman

Legendary @The_Real_IMAN arrives at the #CFDAAwards pic.twitter.com/70ZNabivCa

— CFDA (@CFDA) November 11, 2021

With over 40 years of experience in the fashion industry, 66-year-old supermodel Iman passed the baton off to Zendaya in presenting the Fashion Icon Award. Iman displayed an optimistic outlook on the next generation of fashion, saying, “They don’t rely on the established designer because they themselves are young, so they’re willing to wear young and upcoming designers.” Iman was named the CFDA’s Fashion Icon in 2010, and her appearance on the carpet Wednesday night proves that this bombshell is still in the game. 

Top Photo: Screenshot / YouTube

Fall isn’t just a season; it’s a lifestyle. We’re looking for more ways to incorporate pumpkin spice and plaid into every and all aspects of our day-to-day lives before the Christmas season hits. Here are 12 super cute nail ideas to sport at your Thanksgiving gathering!

1. Fall Tones

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Mirna M. Thabet (@nails.art.bymirna)

If you’re like me and don’t have the steadiest hand for detailed nail art, you can never go wrong with a classic coat of paint. The best colors to pop on those pretty little fingers are maroon, mustard yellow, pumpkin orange, taupe, or hunter green. These muted and rich tones are perfect for transitioning into November.

2. Falling Leaves

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by essie (@essie)

Fall leaves are a symbol of the changing seasons. This design has a simple neutral base, topped with green and copper leaves. To get this effect, use your brush to swipe on paint lightly. Going in with a small line brush, you can add details like veining or stems. These nails are bound to leave your friends and family speechless.

3. Ombre Hues

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Kaitlyn Reichert Posey (@kaitposey)

If you’re indecisive and can’t commit to one color of polish, why not paint each finger a different shade? Choose a color and try to gather up a gradient of shades. Starting with your thumb and working your way out to the pinky, go from lightest to darkest and create an ombre of fall hues.

4. Sweater Weather

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Nail By Connie (@kawaii_japanese_nail_salon)

As the weather chills up and you start to break out the cable knit sweaters, how about cozying up with these knitted nails? This look mixes a blend of matte neutral tones across each nail, accenting two fingers with a sweater-like detailing. Pair with your favorite seasonal sweater, and you’re all set!

5. Fall Florals

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Shawnaci Schroeder (@shawnacischroeder)

Who said florals were just for spring and summer? Flowers are a simple design that beginner nail artists can achieve in a few easy steps. Just go in with a small detail nail brush and a few different colors of paint. I highly recommend an orange, cream, and brown color combo on a white base. 

6. Gold Foil

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Michelle Humphrey ?? (@nailsbymh)

Everyone loves a little sparkle! As we move further into the holiday season, gold polish will be a festive staple in your nail looks. All eyes will be on your manicured fingers at the Thanksgiving table.

7. Tortoiseshell

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Hannah Lee (@hannahroxit)

While tortoiseshell glasses are a timeless accessory in many of our collections, tortoiseshell nail art is a fun way to match your fashion with your manicure. Not to mention, it’s a lot easier than you’d think! This tutorial is the proof!

8. Marble

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by MICHELLE INFUSINO (@michelleinfusino)

Let’s flashback to 2013 when water marble nail art was the hack for easy marble nail designs. Play around with all the fall colors and create a swirling design that is entirely unique and entirely autumnal.

9. Pumpkin Patch

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Nail It (@nailitmedia)

October was the month of pumpkin spice madness, but just because we are into November doesn’t mean we have to ditch the pumpkins altogether! Gather up various colors, from burnt oranges to chestnut browns to sage greens, and paint on a multicolored pumpkin patch across those fingers.

10. Plaid Pattern

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Brooke Jensen (@nailsbybrooke___)

From plaid coats, plaid dresses, or plaid pants, plaid is the pattern for fall! If you couldn’t already see the trend here, matching nails with your wardrobe creates a cohesive, monochromatic look. So whip out that detail brush and (carefully) draw on thin lines to replicate the weaving pattern of your go-to plaid skirt. Try an accent nail, or have a total plaid moment. It’s all up to you!

11. Colored French Tips

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Kaitlyn Reichert Posey (@kaitposey)

French tips are a classic nail trend that many of us go back to time and time again. Colored french tips are a simple way to switch up your basics and play upon the autumnal colors for the season. 

12. Abstract 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by REVOLVE BEAUTY (@revolvebeauty)

Sometimes, not having a plan is the best way to approach nail art. Try different colors, different finishes, different metallics. Your nails are your canvas!

Top Photo: Valeriia Miller / Unsplash

With Halloween a little over one week away, we’re all under the wire to finalize our costumes. Looking to spice up your costume or just experiment with some face paint? Here are 13 Halloween makeup looks that anyone from novices to bonafide makeup-lovers can achieve with a bit of guidance, a little eyeliner, and a whole lot of patience! From newbies to makeup artists in the making, Halloween is the time to unleash your creative side and play around with some terrifyingly fabulous makeup looks.

1. Hocus Pocus Glossy Lid

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Kayla| Beauty Content Creator? (@iamkaylabeauty)

Inspired by the recent Colourpop Cosmetics Hocus Pocus collaboration, this makeup look plays with spidery lashes, vixen black lips, and glossy purple lids. The eyeshadow can appear daunting, but it’s practically a one-shadow look. Play with different colors, from greens, purples, to reds, and top it all off with a glitter gel. With these eyes to kill, you’re sure to put a spell on anyone who looks your way.

2. Bloody Cut Crease 

@tias.mua

an actual cut crease tutorial for halloween ? ##halloweenlook ##halloween2021 ##halloweenmakeup ##halloweeneyemakeup ##eyeshadowtutorial

♬ original sound – im147poundsofpaleskin

Liquid liner is one of the best ways to amplify your look for Halloween. Grab your red liquid liner and outline just above the crease of your eye, mimicking a cat liner you would typically draw on your lash line. Top it off with some liquid blood on a small liner brush, blending it out carefully with a scrub sponge to give it a splatter effect. Want more blood splatter? Try a spray bottle of fake blood, like the Makeup Revolution SFX Spray Blood!

3. Pennywise Clown

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by tia shea ♡ (@tias.mua)

While Pennywise’s clown makeup has been replicated throughout the years, if you’re not into the whole special fx look, try something a little more tame but with a bloody twist. For the eyes, artist @tias.mua did a matte red-toned smokey eye, paired with false lashes. To achieve the bloody smile, outline with red liner or eyeshadow and top with some Mehron coagulated blood gel for a sinister grin no one will forget. 

4. Bat-Wing Graphic Eyeliner

Looking for a way to spice up your winged liner? Try some graphic looks! Kat Von D’s bat-wing eyeliner is an easy way to switch up your eye makeup for Halloween. Sketch out the general shape of the wing using your favorite neutrals from a contour or eyeshadow palette. Then go in with your ride-or-die liquid liner, like the KVD Tattoo Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner.

5. Lisa Frank Rainbow Cheetah

If you’re leaning away from the bloody, creepy Halloween theme, tap into some 90’s nostalgia and whip out your Caboodle for a Lisa Frank-inspired look! For the eyes, it’s time to break out all of the pigments and create a gradual rainbow transition across the lids, blending each color on the color wheel into the next. Top the lid with a silver shadow for a metallic pop. If you want to elevate this look to Frank status, grab some water-activated face paints and begin the rainbow down your neck and up onto the side of your cheek. Grab a black face paint and sketch on some leopard spots. Now you’re looking like a real-life Unicorn Cheetah!

6. Neon Jack-O-Lantern

@jessicarose_makeup

??? #makeuptok #halloween #halloweenmakeup #makeuptutorial

♬ red light green light x money – jovynn

Going out for Halloweekend and want your makeup to be seen all night long? Check out UV reactive makeup, like the Unbothered Cosmetics Neon Cake eyeliners. Cover your entire lid with black gel eyeliner, forming a cat-eye shape. Using a small liner brush and your water-activated cake liner, draw a jack-o-lantern face. Your eyes will literally be glowing All Hallows’ Eve!

7. Angel vs Devil

@makeupbymelissa

??? #halloweenmakeup #halloweenmakeuplook #halloweenmakeupideas #makeup

♬ Tainted Love – Soft Cell

Can’t decide whether you want to be an angel or devil? Why not both? Do your regular face makeup routine, and focus on the eyes. Keep it neutral and use a white liner to draw some angel wings and a halo above the eyebrow for one eye. Go in for a fiery smokey red eyeshadow look for your other eye, paired with some graphic devil horns: a little naughty, a little nice.

8. Optical Illusion Face Paint

Special FX makeup can seem daunting for the makeup newbie but have no fear, BUST has you covered. Try out this optical illusion fang makeup from MUA Amy Watanabe! Using a brown or white eyeliner, sketch out the design along your chin down onto the neck. Once you finalize the sketch, go in with black face paint, like the Ben Nye Professional Creme Series, and fill the “mouth area.” Using red face paint, blend all over the tongue area to emphasize the illusion of an open mouth. Accent your fangs with some white face paint, dab a little fake blood, and this look is sure to make jaws drop!

9. American Horror Story: The Countess

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by JASMINE ADETUNJI ?? (@jasadetunji)

Lady Gaga’s iconic role as The Countess in American Horror Story is a trendier Halloween look this season. A mix of glam and fright, this look pays homage to the bombshell blonde with angular smokey eyes and blood-tainted lips. Makeup artist @jasadetunji went for a bleached eyebrow effect, and claw marks up her neck. 

10. Catwoman Face Mask

@lilyrowland1

That’s it! 4/4 looks complete what do you want to see next? #ThatNewLookFeeling #BOSSMoves #duet #fyp #catwoman#makeup #haloween

♬ original sound – caykeface

Walking the line between hero and villain, Catwoman is a sexy, latex lover’s dream costume. Paired with a glossy red lip, smokey winged eyeliner, and cat ears, it’s purrfectly irresistible. If you have the skills, and a steady enough hand, opt for drawing on your face mask instead of buying one. 

11. Blotted Skull Face

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by RUBY GRAHAM • MAKEUP ARTIST (@rubygraham.mua)

Pick up a water-activated face paint, like the Mac Cosmetics Chromacake, and go for a more abstract skull face. A more toned-down version of skull makeup, this look blends smokey eyes with strategic face paint. Pop in some colored contacts and slicked-back hair, and you’ve achieved that effortless “undead model” look.

12. Coraline & Other Mother

@aiveekate

Who would you like to see next? ? #halloweencostume #halloween #makeupmashup #coraline #othermother #makeupbyaivee #foryourpage

♬ Coraline – chelc

After the release of 2009’s Coraline, many of us fell in love with the blue-haired rebel and her escape from the Other Mother. This split makeup look blends more natural makeup with special effects, button eye included. 

13. Purple Skull Heart

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Atarah Mayhew (@atarahmayhew)

Face painting is the next step up from a traditional canvas, and makeup artist @atarahmayhew has mastered her craft. In her 31 days of Halloween makeup series, she has rocked a range of looks from Disney icons to fan-favorite Halloween characters. In this TikTok, we see her painting skills in action as she designs a monochromatic purple skull look!

Top Photo: David Fagundes / Pexels

“WE ARE THE weirdos, mister,” is a retort that went down in girl culture history the second Fairuza Balk spoke those words, punctuated by a burgundy-lipped grin, in 1996’s The Craft. The classic cult film follows Robin Tunney’s character, Sarah, as she navigates a new school and ends up befriending a trio of outcasts known as the “bitches of Eastwick”: Bonnie (Neve Campbell), Rochelle (Rachel True), and Balk’s ringleader Nancy. The new crew dabbles in witchcraft while wearing the coolest ’90s alt outfits. Whether they were stealing from an occult store in their school uniforms, sporting slip dresses paired with thigh-highs and lace-up boots, or exacting revenge on a popular misogynist (Skeet Ulrich!) while wearing spiked collars and inverted cross earrings, these teens served grunge-goth perfection—an aesthetic that’s just as bewitching today.

1. VIVIKA-205 Vegan Leather Boots

2. “It Takes Guts” Matte Liquid Lipstick

3. Lil Tree Spike Collar

4. Floral Slip Dress

5. Inverted Cross Sterling Silver Earrings

6. Pleated Plaid Skirt

This article originally appeared in the Fall 2021 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today!

Practical Magic Afro-Dominican sisters Mabel and Shaira Frías are putting Latin culture front and center in their indie makeup brand Luna Magic (lunamagic.com). Their vibrant collection includes vegan eyelashes named after telenovelas ($8, for two pairs) and colorful, high-pigmented eyeshadow palettes ($16 to $20) made to compliment any skin tone. –Safire R. Sostre

Lady Fingers

I’ve gotta hand it to her, Mei Chen sculpts the world’s cutest wearable appendages ($28 to $55, themeitriarchy.etsy.com). Whether they’re holding a crystal, a pie, or just flipping the bird, and made into earrings, a necklace, or even wine charms, her miniature creations are a grip of fun. –Lisa Butterworth 

Badass Bath Goods Loquita Bath and Body (loquitabath.com), a colorful line of vegan and cruelty-free products soaked in Chicana culture, feels like a peek into the cool teen years of founder Yamira Vanegas. Try her Concha Bath Bombs ($7), Chingona Club Soap Bar ($10), and Bruja Body Crema ($8), which leaves skin “as moisturized as a piece of tres leches cake.” -Lisa Butterworth 

Nifty, Thrifty, and Thriving I have BUST’s own Callie Watts to thank for introducing me to my new fave TikTokker, thrifter Talia Leslie (tiktok.com/@thehighlowfashionista), who I’m pretty sure is an actual wardrobe wizard? Scroll through her feed to see the myriad mind-boggling ways she styles everything from a button-down blouse to vintage jammies.  –Lisa Butterworth

This article originally appeared in the Fall 2021 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today!

New York-based fashion stylist Kelly Augustine believes fashion can be liberating. “People treat fashion like it’s very frivolous, and it’s not,” she says.  “How I’m treated as a Black person very much depends on how I’m dressed. Even as a fat woman, if you don’t wear shapewear, people are going to assume that you’re sloppy and it’s like, ‘Maybe I just want to breathe tonight.'” That’s why she’s dedicated to taking a stand for who she is. “There’s liberation [in fashion], and I love what’s happening with Black designers [who’re saying], ‘I want to wear gold fronts and rollers in my hair.’ I’m going to be who I am, and you’re going to take me as I am.” Here are 8 fashion items on her most-wanted wish list this fall. – Jamilah Lewis-Horton 

1. Hanifa Olivia Maxi Dress in Bright Lime, $179

2. Skims Sculpting Bodysuit with Snaps, $62

3. Brandon Blackwood Bamboo B Tote, $375

4. Elisa Johnson Jane Sunglasses in Gold Metal, $145

5. Nanushka Black Woven Juhi Bucket Hat, $226

6. Pyer Moss The Sculpt Sneakers, $595

7. Chic Geeks Faux Crocodile iPhone Case in Cobalt, $50

8. Gypsy By Knature Divine Feminine Necklace, $92

Top Photo: Trévon James

This article originally appeared in the Fall 2021 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today!

In our Fashion Nation series, we talk to people about personal style.

Name: Kelly Augustine
Job: stylist
Insta: @kellyaugustine
Location: New York City, New York

Walk me through this outfit.

My dress is Edwin Reyes. My photographer and I were joking that it was giving “Statue of Liberty realness.” It’s [about] emancipation. You’re going to see me, hear me, and feel me, whether you want to or not. My sneakers are Adidas x IvyPark. My earrings are from a beauty supply store in Harlem. And my ring is from LeyeLesi. In everything I do, I try to include Black and independent designers. And, being a plus-size woman, I dig into designers who really “get it” for us.

How would you describe your style?

Every day my style is different. But being plus size, I don’t fully get to express my style because of accessibility and options. If I could dress the way I really wanted to, it would be over for everybody. I make it work and I really focus on accessorizing. But it’s not necessarily fully realized.

How do you navigate the “fashion don’ts” that typically police fat Black women?

I actively try to dress the way I’m told I’m not supposed to. I try not to belt things, because for a long time we were told we needed to cinch our waists. Almost every day, I make something shoulderless that wasn’t supposed to be. Even having [my] thighs out, I’m very mindful of that when dressing. Just giving little glimpses of [your body] makes a statement. Especially in 2021, fashion “dos and don’ts” are not a thing.

Can fashion be a form of activism?

Absolutely. People treat fashion like it’s very frivolous, and it’s not. How I’m treated as a Black person very much depends on how I’m dressed. Even as a fat woman, if you don’t wear shapewear, people are going to assume that you’re sloppy and it’s like, “Maybe I just want to breathe tonight.” There’s liberation [in fashion], and I love what’s happening with Black designers [who’re saying], “I want to wear gold fronts and rollers in my hair.” I’m going to be who I am, and you’re going to take me as I am. – Jamilah Lewis-Horton

Photos by: Trévon James

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Fall 2021 print edition. Subscribe today! 

We are in the middle of September, commonly known by fashion enthusiasts as “Fashion Month” because of the four main fashion weeks (New York, London, Milan and Paris) that take place within the month. But in the middle of the most renowned house of the world, Rihanna’s Savage x Fenty is already set to be this year’s show. 

The inclusive lingerie brand created by international pop star Rihanna immediately struck gold after its first show in 2018. Within a month, the debut collection was sold out. The first show, taking place in Brooklyn, featured supermodels like Gigi Hadid, Joan Smalls, and Indira Scott. But it was the second show that really changed the face of the brand by incorporating extravagant performances into the presentation. Many worldwide renowned artists performed on stage, such as Lizzo, Migos, Big Sean, and Tierra Whack, making it one of 2019’s craziest shows. It was also the first show to be made available on streaming platform Amazon Prime under the name “Savage x Fenty Volume 2”.

What makes the brand so special is not only its over-the-top fashion show, but mostly its body-inclusive and affordable (most simple bras are under $10) lingerie line. The brand made lingerie much more accessible for many women who couldn’t find suitable products because of their body size, price range or comfortability. 

When Rihanna announced the release of her latest show with an instagram post saying “my mood after sending the cut of the final savage x fenty show to Amazon Prime” featuring a picture of her wearing what could be one of her collection’s looks, the world went crazy with the post. It was liked by almost three million people.

 

 

 

 

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Une publication partagée par badgalriri (@badgalriri)

Although this year’s performance is set to be released on the streaming platform on September 24th, a few magazines like W, Bazaar or Essence managed to get a sneak peek at Savage x Fenty Volume 3 and, according to Paper Mag ,it’s already this year’s best show. 

As it has been in the past three years, we can expect Savage x Fenty to be an ode to diversity and inclusion. This year’s show will include performances by Nas, Jazmine Sullivan, BIA, Normani and even Ricky Martin. But the list of celebrities doesn’t stop there: Victoria’s Secret’s model Adriana Lima, TikTok creator and singer Bella Poarch, actress Thuso Mbedu, and fashion model and DJ Soo Joo Park, amongst others, are expected to make an appearance on the runway show modeling some of Fenty’s latest and hottest looks. 

Behind one of September’s sexiest pictures is Tyrell Hampton, a 24-year-old New York-based photographer known for his numerous pictures of celebrity’ nightlife. 

 

 

 

 

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Une publication partagée par Tyrell Hampton (@tyrellhampton)

 Best known for her portrayal of feisty ballroom legend Lulu on the Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated FX series, Pose, Hailie Sahar has been blazing a trail for trans performers since she first appeared on Transparent in 2016. Here, she serves up a variety of luscious lewks, turning a gallery into a runway for BUST‘s Fall Fashion Feature.

Sorapol Gown; Kyle Chan Earrings; Tamara Mellon Shoes; Vintage Ring from the Archives & Showroom Private Collection

Libertine Dress; Raad Kerr Bodysuit; Kat Maconie Shoes; Vintage Area Earrings from the Lidow Archive

Libertine Coat; Leciel Design Earrings

Harry Halim Suit and Vintage Earrings from the Lidow Archive; Dean Davidson Green Amethyst Ring; Jessica Rich Shoes; Vintage Gold Ring from the Archives and Showroom Private Collection 

Libertine Dress; RAAD KERR Bodysuit; Vintage Area Earrings from the Lidow Archive. 

Vintage Bcalla Dress from the Lidow Archive; UBS Gold Earrings; Ninna York Rings; Saint Laurent Shoes 

Photographed by Gizelle Hernandez

Styled by Monica Cargile @ Six K Management

Hair by Steven Mason @ Exclusive Artists Using Oribe Haircare

Makeup by Aaron Paul @ Exclusive Artists Using Charlotte Tilbury

Set Design by Daniel Luna

Photo Assistant: Jeremy Jackson; Set Assistants: Tyler Virga and Brandon Luna; Stylist’s Assistant: Jessica Pineda

When Agnes Woodward created the rainbow ribbon skirt that Deb Haaland wore at her ceremonial swearing-in as the first Indigenous American U.S. Secretary of the Interior in March, she didn’t tell anybody. “Only because I had a hard time believing it was real,” the self-taught Plains Cree seamstress says. The traditional skirt was a fast turnaround, sewn start to finish in about six hours. It wasn’t until she saw footage from her home in North Dakota—of Haaland lacing up her moccasins while wearing the skirt—that Woodward realized she was also making history. “Seeing her in that position was just a huge moment for every Indigenous person across these lands,” she says. “I was incredibly honored.”

Woodward, who works as an advocate at Three Affiliated Tribes Victim Services, began making ribbon skirts—two pieces of fabric adorned with rows of satin ribbons and sewn in an A-line shape—for herself and her daughters to wear to Native ceremonies almost a decade ago. But the look was something she tried to avoid growing up. “I experienced a lot of racism in Saskatchewan, [Canada], where I was raised.

And because of that, I always hated when my family would make me wear long skirts because I felt like I was going to attract more hate if I was more visibly Indigenous.” 

Her father is a survivor of Canada’s residential school system—mandatory boarding schools that forcibly assimilated Indigenous children; her mother survived Canada’s “Sixties Scoop,” when thousands of Indigenous kids were taken from their families and placed in foster care; and an aunt was murdered, one of the many missing and murdered Indigenous women (MMIW). Making the decision to not only start wearing ribbon skirts, but also to design and sew them, has helped Woodward unpack and heal from these intergenerational traumas. “A lot of Indigenous women wear ribbon skirts as a way to reclaim their pride, teachings, and identity, especially through the process of colonization and assimilation policies that have really affected our people,” she says. “Ribbon skirts have been a really empowering tool for us. It’s a meaningful piece of art [that] tells a story.”

Today, she’s made hundreds of ribbon skirts to bring attention to the MMIW crisis, and she sells them through her organization ReeCreeations (@reecreeations on Instagram). “My only hope and goal since the beginning has been to empower Indigenous people,” she says. “I just want them to know that life can be beautiful.”

Photo: Whirlwind Bull (Agnes Woodward); Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson (Deb Haaland)

This article originally appeared in BUST’s Fall 2021 print edition. Subscribe today!

Craving individuality, sustainability, and creativity, intrepid sartorialists are taking their sewing projects to Instagram, serving homemade looks you could only dream of finding in stores. Whether they’re dusting off their childhood Singers or threading brand new Berninas, these stylish creators are making great things happen with fabric and sharing the details—from pattern numbers and modification tips to specific fabric choices and body measurements—so you can, too. Here are some of our favorite sewists (a new term that combines the words “sew” and “artist”) to follow, along with their tips to get your needle bobbin’. By: Stephanie Ganz 

Aaronica Cole, Atlanta, GA

@needleandthebelle

Atlanta-based sewist Aaronica Cole flaunts her “me made” looks, from loungewear and yoga pants to lingerie, with equal parts realness and positivity. “Creating my own wardrobe has been empowering and has helped me love my body exactly how it is,” she says. As a batch sewist, Cole cuts multiple patterns at once, using binder clips instead of pins and a projector rather than printed patterns, finally assembling her designs in one big, satisfying swoop.

Shannon Flaherty, Richmond, IN 

@rare.device

Shannon Flaherty shares her pattern tests and original creations with her art historian’s eye for color and composition. She’s also the founder of Sew Queer (sewqueer.org), an online community for queer and trans-identifying sewists, “building identity, community, and resilience.” When it comes to getting started with a DIY wardrobe, Flaherty says skip the simple tote bag and embark on a project that excites you; you’ll figure out the rest as you go.

Gyasti Averia, Los Angeles, CA

@gyasti