N A T U R A L
1 // B LU SH M AGF I T. COM
S E L E C T I O N
FALL 2017
G ET M OR E
B L U S H M AG F I T. C O M
Visit for more articles, interviews, online editorials and more 2 / / B LUS H M AGFIT.COM
EDITOR IN CHIEF
PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
DESIGNERS
Ryann Casey
Ayse Albardak
Sunghyun Bang
Emily Altieri
Gabrielle Chang
Rebeka Bonilla
Chris Coughlin
Kasey Buchsbaum
Dee Delancour
Isabella Cacciatore
Michelle Dines
Natalie Carozza
Angelo Germain-Pyram
Sarah Carpenter
Elizabeth Hartley
Ryann Casey
Katie Higgins
Kiana Clevinger
Sydnie Jaime
Katie Costa
Alya Kanehailua
Chloe DeChambeau
Yulia Kovtun
Danielle Smith
Nestor Menjivar
Melissa DeOliveira
Julia O’Donnell
Melissa DeOliveira
Caroline Duffy
Brianna Waller
Laksmi Bisram
Erica Fleming
Gina Gargiulo
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Hannah Keiffert
PUBLIC RELATIONS ASSOCIATES
ART DIRECTOR
Rebeka Bonilla
Brandon Saloy
Katie Costa Caroline Duffy
ART ASSISTANT
Julia Engster
Lena Kourgouzov
Nicole Gomez Gabrielle Gonzalez
PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR
Conor Haffey
Emily Schindler
Fiona Liao
SENIOR EDITORS
Danielle Smith
Kirsten Lutley Claudia Tufanio
Gina Gargiulo Conor Haffey
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Keira Hockers
Tyana Teat-Vickers
Melody Keifer Kirsten Lutley
Julian Acevedo
BLUSHMAGFIT.COM WEB DIRECTOR Brinley Knopf
WEB CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jewelle Trotman
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WEB EDITORS
Brandon Saloy
Jonathan Lee
Avni Shah
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Alice Sungurov
Claudia Tufanio
Claudia Tufanio
Landuo Yuan
Caroline Wilcox Sofia Wolak
ADVISOR Laura Hatmaker
FALL 2017 Blush is produced by the students of the Fashion Institute of Technology State University of New York, with funds provided by the FIT Student Government Association. FIT is committed to prohibiting discrimination in its programs, activities, and employment, whether based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender identity, religion, ethnic background, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military service status, genetic information, pregnancy, familial status, citizenship status (except as required to comply with law), or any other criterion prohibited by law. Inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policy may be directed to the Affirmative Action Officer/Title IX Coordinator, 212 217.3360, titleix@fitnyc.edu.
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VEGAN LEATHER Is it really all that it claims to be?
FEATURES
14
ANIMAL TESTING Our staff investigates fashion ethics.
36
20
A newcomer puts a vegan diet to the test.
Blush Magazine’s first boy-glam beauty editorial
SEVEN DAY TRIAL
MODERN MAN
40
CHRISTINA DEGAGLIA A vegan alumni shows her latest work.
48
NATURALISTAS Leave the relaxer at home! Real FIT women embrace natural hair looks. 4 / / B LUS H M AGFIT.COM
56
NATURAL SELECTION Thrifted styles, dogs, rooftop views and more!
A LETTER
FROM THE EDITOR AS BLUSH MAGAZINE EVOLVES, WE WANT TO FOCUS ON PROJECTING TRENDS THAT WE SEE HAPPENING IN THE WORLD. OUR LAST ISSUE ON SUSTAINABILITY BROUGHT ON STRONG OPINIONS AND ROSE MUCH AWARENESS OF WHAT IS HAPPENING IN VARIOUS INDUSTRIES. TO MATCH THAT, WE DECIDED TO EXPLORE A DIFFERENT INDUSTRY THIS SEMESTER.
WE LOOK A R OUN D US A N D I N OUR E V E R Y D AY L I V ES. T H E R E ’ S A CL EA R SHI FT
present in the way people are eating and the ingredients in the products we use. My idea around veganism stems from my dear sister who first opened my eyes to not only vegan foods, but veganism in general as a moral compass. She inspired me to research further, being the core inspiration for this issue. Being vegan isn’t for everyone, but that doesn’t mean we all can’t be educated on the benefits, alternatives, and products that are available around us. From ancient times to now, animals are used in the categories of fashion, beauty, and culture. We’re here to expose the animals in those industries, and perhaps shed a new light on your thoughts with the food you eat, the clothes you wear, and the cosmetics you use. Our writers and designers took creative standpoints on the problems present within the animal industry. However, there are much more positive aspects to focus on as well. From the emotional benefits of owning a pet (I can’t lie, my dog was also a huge inspiration for this theme) to new and innovative brands stepping up, the animal world will continue to collide into ours. I want to thank every Blush member and person involved who contributed to this publication, because I surely couldn’t have done it without you. I couldn’t be prouder with where we’re at, and can’t wait to see what the future holds.
Gina Gargiulo 5 / / B LUSH M AGFIT.COM
WHY MY DOG IS MY BEST FRIEND B Y G I N A G ARG IULO
DO G S ARE T RULY R EMA R K A BL E A N IM ALS , TH EY W ERE TH E FIRS T AN IM AL S to
immunity to diseases and allergies. Dog owners have also been
reside with humans and have been found in human societies all over
found to have lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, less heart
the world. While they were first domesticated for survival needs,
attacks, and fewer medical problems in general than those without
dog ownership now evolved into a close companionship with their
dogs.
owners. This is primarily due to the growing awareness of the posi-
Besides in solely physical ways, dogs affect us emotionally. You’re
tive effects this relationship can have on human health and psycho-
likely to feel less depressed with a dog and have more positive
logical well-being.
outlooks on life. Research has shown that it only takes about 15–30
First, let’s start physical. For someone who doesn’t exercise
minutes with your dog to feel more relaxed and calm. Playing with
daily, a dog can motivate you to go on more walks. Not only does
your dog raises your brain’s levels of dopamine and serotonin, which
this help you to get exercise and stay healthy, but it might help your
are neurotransmitters that are associated with pleasure and tran-
social life since people are more likely to stop and talk to you when
quility. Thus, dogs can improve your mood greatly, in just a short
you’re walking a dog. When you’re at home, dogs can be an effective
amount of time. Dogs make us better people in general by teaching
home security system. Studies show that barking dogs discourage
us valuable skills in life such as commitment, selflessness, care,
burglars, while it’s very helpful having someone with a keen sense
responsibility, and patience.
of hearing to detect anyone prowling around. Another important
Regardless of when or where dog ownership started, human’s
aspect is feeling less stressed. Research reveals that petting
long attachment to these animals is still going strong. Today, Amer-
your dog, playing with your dog, and simply watching your dog can
icans own about 78 million dogs, as the benefits they bring keep on
reduce stress hormones as well as lower your heart rate. In addition,
growing as well. Next time you see your pet, make sure you thank
dogs expose their owners to germs, which can help build a human’s
them for bringing you these positive assets in your life!
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY SOPHIA PAVLATOS
PETS OF BLUSH
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IS VEGAN LEATHER REALLY WHAT IT SEEMS?
BY K E I R A HO CK E R S
VEG AN LEAT H ER I S OF TEN A D VE RTIS ED AS AN AN IM AL— AN D EARTH -
Vegan leather is designed to look as similar as possible to tradi-
friendly option for those looking to sport the style of leather without
tional leather. It is known to crack at the surface and show wear
sporting the cruelty. But what is vegan leather, and is it any
less favorably. It is often thinner and has greater flexibility than
less cruel? Here’s your side-by-side guide to the pros and cons of
animal leather.
vegan leather.
WHAT IS IT MADE OF?
WHO IS AT RISK TO MISTREATMENT? Of course, using the skins of animals points to the obvious
Traditional leather is made from the hides of animals. The type of
mistreatment of said animals. Still, there are more living beings
animal can range from cow to crocodile. Vegan leather is a manu-
involved. The workers responsible for the tanning process of
factured leather look-alike. It is most often made of polyurethane.
animal-based leather are put at risk, as the tanning process uses
In rare circumstances, other materials such as cork, treated cotton,
harsh chemicals that are known to be cancer-causing.
or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) may be used.
Vegan leather actually poses a similar risk to those manufac-
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
turing it. The chemicals used to manufacture vegan leather are also harsh and known to cause cancer to those who work with it
Natural leather ages much better, often lasting 10-20 years longer
directly. While vegan leather may not be made from animals, it
than vegan alternatives. Natural leather is also more breathable.
still poses risk to them. It is easy to forget that animals and wildlife are affected by synthetic waste. Vegan leather is
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“IF EATING A COW SEEMS ENVIRONMENTALLY IRRESPONSIBLE, WEARING ONE MOST CERTAINLY DOES. THIS BEING SAID, SOME SEE NATURAL LEATHER AS A MORE SUSTAINABLE OPTION THAN ITS VEGAN COUNTERPART.”
typically plastic-based, meaning it does not easily break down. Vegan leather products have the potential to fill landfills and pose risk to wildlife just as other synthetic products.
HOW SUSTAINABLE IS IT? Animal leather utilizes the skins of animals, making the product a bit shaky on the sustainability scale to begin with. It’s the red meat principle here. If eating a cow seems environmentally irresponsible, wearing one most certainly does. This being said, some see natural leather as a more sustainable option than its vegan counterpart, as natural leather is far more durable. Because animal leather ages well and lasts long, it is replaced less often by consumers. Of course, this also makes it more expensive. So, the genuine leather handbag you have may last you a decade, but it may very well be empty for that long, as well. Vegan leather does not withstand wear-and-tear nearly as well as the real stuff. This means it is generally being manufactured quickly and often. This generates a lot of waste not only in production but also in disposal of vegan leather goods. As vegan leather
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIANA MAZZA STYLING BY ANA SCHEIDLINGER HAIR/MAKEUP BY LIANA PRINZEVALLI MODELED BY ANNIKA PETERSON
goods reach the end of their product lives, they are tossed aside for replacement, and even if you’re done with those vegan leather booties, the earth sure isn’t. FA L L 2 017
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Cleansing Camomile Face Wash 1 cup Camomile Tea
2 Tbsp Raw Honey
½ cup Castile Soap
5 Drops Tea Tree Oil
1. Soak your camomile tea in hot water for 10 minutes 2. Drain the tea so that only the liquid is left 3. Add your tea, castile soap, honey, and tea tree oil into a mixing bowl 4. Mix all ingredients finely 5. Add the mixture into a container of your choice 6. Use the cleanser twice a day for a radiant glow.
Illuminating Coconut Moisturizer
Soothing Lavender Facial Toner
4 Tbsp All Natural Shea Butter
1 cup Green Tea 2/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
5—10 Drops Lavender Essential Oil
2 Tbsp Coconut oil
2 Tbsp Rosehip oil 1 Tbsp Aloe Vera Gel 1 Tbsp Vitamin E oil
1. Add all ingredients together into a small mixing bowl, mix until all oils have melted into the shea butter 2. Transfer moisturizer into a small glass container
1. Seep green tea in hot water for 10 minutes
3. Use moisturizer morning and night after toner for
2. Toss the tea bags and let the green tea cool for 15 minutes
supple skin
3. Add the 2/4 cup apple cider vinegar and lavender oil
4. (Optional) Keep moisturizer in the fridge for a cooling sensation upon application
into the green tea 4. Mix all the ingredients together and transfer mix into a spray bottle 5. Use toner after you wash your face every night.
Detoxifying Charcoal Face Mask
6. Always shake mixture before use
diy natural skin care B Y AYSE AL B ARDA K
½ Avocado
1 Tbsp Turmeric
1 Tbsp Activated Charcoal
3 Drops Tea Tree Oil 1 Tbsp Raw Honey
1. Mash Avocado into a thick paste texture 2. Add activated charcoal, turmeric and tea tree oil to the avocado mash and mix 3. Add raw honey with the other ingredients and mix together until it is a dark colored paste 4. Apply the mask and leave it on for 20 -25 minutes 5. Wash the mask off with a warm washcloth to reveal brighter looking skin.
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ILLUSTRATIONS BY TAYLOR BENDER
WHO SAID HAIR DYE WASN’T VEGAN?
ILLUSTRATION BY ANN CHRISTENSEN
BY CL AU D I A TU FANI O
MANIC PANIC
ARCTIC FOX
The search for semi-permanent hair color formulated
Meet Arctic Fox, a hair color that simultaneously
without ammonia or peroxide ends here: Manic Panic’s
conditions while leaving stunning, vibrant color. The
High Voltage Classic Cream Formula Hair Color comes
semi-permanent hair colors are non-alkaline, and
in 44 shocking shades, from deep emerald green
made from strictly vegan ingredients without animal
“Enchanted Forest” to “Cotton Candy Pink”, and every-
by-products, harmful chemicals, peroxide, ammonia,
thing in between. For those not into bright colors or
ethyl alcohol, PPD, or damaging chemicals. Arctic Fox
shocking hues, Manic carries tame brunette and blonde
is gentle enough for frequent use, whether it’s covering
shades as well.
those fast-growing gray’s, or changing your hair color to match your mood.
GREEN HARE MUD Green Hare Mud (naturally) fuels the wild green thumb
HENNA COLOR LAB
we all have inside of us. The pure plant-based natural
Henna Color Lab natural hair color delivers salon-level
hair color brand uses ingredients like ground plant
results, with hair dye created to bond with your hair
lead, black walnut shells, flower petals, and red zinger
rather than chemically coating it. Using Ayurvedic
tea to offer seven rich and vivid shades. Choose from
herbs to condition the hair and scalp, Henna Color Lab
chocolatey brunette to ash blonde. The ingredients
not only colors your hair, but conditions, nourishes
in each packet of Green Hare Mud are hand-picked in
the scalp, detoxifies follicles, and smooths split ends
small batches to ensure 100% natural, cruelty free, and
simultaneously. The best part is that the products are
chemical free hair color.
free from ammonia, metallic salts, PPD, and other harsh chemicals and toxins.
LUSH Most commonly known for whimsical bath bombs and colorful bubble bars, skincare giant Lush also carries another treasure: Vegan henna hair dye. The colors are blended with essential oils and cocoa butter, leaving your hair feeling smooth, silky, and looking fabulous. Lush’s vegan henna hair dye comes in unique chocolate-bar shaped blocks, and must be added to boiling water to achieve a melted-chocolate-like consistency before it can be applied to hair.
ILLUSTRATION BY ANN CHRISTENSEN
FA L L 2 017
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B I E Y C H
BY AL I CE S U NG U R O V
N
A
V E G E A M
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY SCHINDLER
WHEN MOS T PEOPLE M EET M E, TH EY ARE IN S TAN TLY M ET
with an earth loving “save the animals” kind of girl. I talk about my favorite vegan restaurants more than what happened on Game of Thrones, or Grey’s Anatomy. So, it may come as a surprise to most people that I grew up in the most non-vegan household. Both my parents are Russian so meat and potatoes were my main food groups. Interestingly, when I talk to my now vegan mom and some of our old family friends, they tell me that for the first three years of my life I didn’t eat much meat. Funny enough, my dad says the opposite; I know he wishes I would go back to the “old days,” where we’d have special ribs every Wednesday, lamb on Thursday, basically red meat all the time. I grew up in a small town where being “vegan” wasn’t a thing. When I started high school, my mom and I moved to Manhattan, where it seemed there was a vegan restaurant on every block. Before transitioning to veganism, I started off by trying different vegan foods, and to my surprise, everything tasted delicious!
After returning back to New York, I decided to test
My mouth watered for crispy vegan apple pie from By
myself and see how long I could last on the vegetarian
Chloe’s and the thought of vegan lasagne from Blos-
diet. Not too long after, I noticed a massive change in
som’s made my skeptical heart sing.
my body. Naturally, after some time, I started cutting out
Even with some of the delicious vegan foods I was
cheese from my diet, and so many things about myself
trying, the idea of dropping steak was not an option for
were changing: my skin cleared up and started glowing,
me. I respected those who were vegan but felt that it
my hair became softer and healthier, and my ability to
wasn’t for me. Oh, how wrong I was.
focus was 10x more than what it was when I became
At the wonderful age of 15, I took a trip to India for a
vegetarian. Also, knowing I was apart of an industry
leadership program. While experiencing a major culture
that supported the well-being of all living creatures had
shock, I also was on a strictly vegetarian diet. I couldn’t
established a new sense of self in me.
eat any meat, fish, chicken, or eggs. It didn’t seem like
So many of my family and friends were concerned I
that much of a burden since my time there was only
wouldn’t have anything to eat, but in reality living in a city
for a month, so soldiering through was the only option.
like New York, I have more than enough options. Also,
Before then, I never cognized I was harming animals or
being a newborn vegan I am prompted to explore my abil-
being unhealthy. I was raised with the idea that protein
ities in the kitchen with what I can make for myself. Being
from meat is the healthiest option, and that animals are
vegan isn’t a lack of something, but rather a gain of the
meant to die for our survival.
extraordinary. FA L L 2 017
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THE CONCERN OF ANIMAL TESTING IN THE COSMETICS INDUSTRY B Y E M I LY ALT IERI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ELIANEL CLINTON MAKEUP BY CELESTE ST. CLAIR STYLED BY D'MAHDNES MODELED BY MARIA TACO
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A NI MA L TES TI NG H AS B EEN A DEB ATED C O N C EP T FO R Y E A R S A N D Y E A R S.
Many have strong minded opinions on the subject while others are passive to the topic at hand. An abundance of companies and brands have switched to more humane methods of testing, while others still use the unethical practices. Organizations such as Peta and Leaping Bunny have garnished the media with reports and dissent against animal testing, encouraging a strong public opinion in opposition to the disdained practice. In today’s
“NUMEROUS BRANDS
HAVE CHOSEN TO OPT FOR MORE HUMANE APPROACHES ”
advanced society, the ancient and unfair practice of animal testing is no longer necessary. The primary reason companies still choose to test their cosmetics on animals can be summed up with one word: China. By law, it is required for cosmetics to be tested on animals before being
approaches and pulled out of the Chinese market in doing so. More
sold in their market. Seeing that the country has the world’s largest
humane methods to animal testing are cheaper and more effective
consumer market, it would be a dramatic loss of business to refuse
than the ancient practice. Companies utilize alternatives such
selling there. However, an abundance of new companies refuse to
as cell cultures, human tissues, computer models, and volunteer
sell in the market because of the unethical practice. One example
studies. The alternative methods show the lack of necessity for the
is Snow Fox Skincare, an organic and vegan line created by Phoebe
immoral practice.
Song. The brand was originally intended to be sold worldwide
In the near future, hopefully humans will become more sympa-
including in China. Upon learning that animal testing was legally
thetic with their animal counterparts. Many brands in the cosmetic
required, Song decided to pull her products from the Chinese
industry have adopted ethical approaches, but there is still so
market. Choosing to be humane over the profitable market was a
much work to be done. The world’s largest cosmetic market is
hard but respectable decision for the growing brand.
upholding the ancient practice by force of law. With new technol-
While many cosmetic giants such as L’Oreal and Revlon continue
ogies and advancements, the alternatives to animal testing are
their animal testing approach, others are choosing to take a differ-
growing vastly. Change is around the corner for the furry friends
ent route. Numerous brands have chosen to opt for more humane
that have become victims of the beauty industry.
FA L L 2 017
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VEGAN BEAUTY: BERRY HUES BY N ATA LIE C A ROZZA PHOTOGRAPHY BY SABINE SMITH MAKEUP BY JAZMIN THOMAS MODELED BY AURORA HINZ AND MEGANNE NATALE
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CREATING A MAKEUP LOOK THAT DOESN’T EXPLOIT INNOCENT ANIMALS DOESN’T HAVE TO BE HARD! THIS IS A LOOK CREATED WITH ALL VEGAN MAKEUP. THESE BRANDS ALSO SUPPORT THE CRUELTY FREE MOVEMENT AND COME TOGETHER TO CREATE A FLAWLESS, FALL LOOK.
primer
brows
M I L K M AKEUP B L U R ST I C K $ 3 6
GLO SSI E R BOY B R OW $ 1 6
This is a oil-and-silicone-free primer that will reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores.
This product shapes, fills, and sets your brows, making them look fuller for that “boyish” brow effect.
concealer
eye shadow
RM S BE AUTY UN C OVE R- UP CON CE AL ER $3 6 .
A NASTASI A BE VE R LY HI L LS MO DE R N R E NA I SSA NC E E YE SH A DOW PA L E TTE $42
This concealer is lightweight and hydrating, and will leave your skin looking radiant.
mascara TOO FACED BE T T E R T H A N SE X M AS CAR A $ 23
A 14-shade shadow palette with berry and neutral tones to create a romantic look.
blush TA R T E A M A Z O NI A N C L AY 1 2 - HO U R B L U SH $ 2 9
This mascara has an intense black hue with an hourglass-shaped brush that separates and lifts lashes, leaving them looking long and voluminous.
This is a long wearing blush infused with clay from the Amazonian River. With a wide variety of shades there is sure to be a blush for every girl looking for a crueltyfree product
bronzer
powder
TOO FACED CH O C O L AT E SO L E I L M ATTE B RON ZE R $ 3 0
K AT VO N D LO C K- I T B LOT T I NG P OWDE R $ 2 9
This is a matte bronzer made with cocoa. It smells like chocolate, and leaves you looking tan and never orange.
In order to set your makeup and makeup this 100% vegan powder will do the trick! It will also work for midday touch-ups to blot away the excess oils.
foundation
lips
G LOS S I ER P ER F E CT I NG SK I N T I NT $ 2 6
C O LO U R P O P U LT R A M AT T E L I P $ 6
This lightweight tint leaves a dewy wash of color over your skin without covering your super cute freckles.
This super-affordable vegan matte “lippie” comes in a wide variety of shades to add the perfect pop to any makeup look.
FA L L 2 017
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SPIRITHOODS BY S A RAH CARPENT ER
W HAT DO KESHA , GETTI NG BE AT UP AT PARTIES , AN D
saving the animals have in common? Good question. Interestingly enough, the answer is fur, and that doesn’t mean the kind coming out of the agricultural industry in the United States; which is not under federal regulation. This is the fur that not only looks good, but truly feels good as well, since part of the proceeds are going towards helping innocent animals. This is Spirithoods. Before Ashley Haber, Alex Mendeluk, Chase Hamilton, and Marley Marotta created their brand, they were just four friends trying to have a good time and make it somewhere on the golden coast. Mendeluk started it all when he crafted the very first Spirit Hood as
upon putting it on he asked if she had “killed an Ewok.” That leads to the most important point about the Spirithood:
a Christmas gift for Hamilton. It was complete with wolf ears and
absolutely no living things, of the Endor-dwelling variety or other-
connecting mittens for the full effect. Seeing such an eccentric
wise, are harmed in the production process. Therefore, in other
accessory is definitely not an everyday occurrence, especially not
words, it’s all bark and no bite!
at a party in Los Angeles - the venue at which the initial piece had its debut. At first, derogatory terms and invitations to brawl were hurled
“IT’S ALL BARK AND NO BITE!” Animals are not left out of the equation entirely, however; endan-
at Hamilton for donning his bold fashion statement, but the trend
gered species from tigers to polar bears are represented by the
soon caught on. After a whirlwind of trade shows and a consequen-
brand, which donates ten percent of its profits to aid these helpless
tial influx of orders, the Spirithood went from a comical gift to a
creatures. Now, despite the foursome’s claim that they “weren’t
booming business.
interested in getting into anything high fashion,” Spirithoods has
Celebrities, of course, are always effective instruments for intro-
expanded its range to include fur coats, which are equal parts chic
ducing new products to the masses, and Spirithoods definitely
and cozy. Leggings and throws also help to round out the product
benefitted from such publicity. When a photo of Kesha wearing one
selection.
came across social media platforms everywhere, the once polar-
The brand’s Instagram account is @spirithoods, and it can be
izing accessories were now undeniably cool. Vanessa Hudgens,
followed for the lowdown on all the latest threads and furs.
Bruno Mars, and Lindsay Lohan, among others, also followed suit.
Moreover, who wouldn’t want to see some pretty gnarly aesthetics
On the Conan O’Brien show, Hudgens brought the host a Hood, and
involving a plethora of adorable canines?
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n o i t i d E d e
VEGAN TATTOOS
Ink
Stopping Animal Cruelty:
BY CHLO E D ECHAMBE AU & CAR O L I NE D U F F Y
VEGA NI S M I S CL E ARLY O N TH E RIS E. FRO M TREN DY V EG A N E AT E R I ES TO V EGA N M A K E UP
and clothing brands, we can all see how accessible a vegan lifestyle is. However, to be fully immersed into the vegan community, it is important to reflect on other activities and aspects of life that may not be considered vegan. As it turns out, some of these things may not be as attainable as the abundance of vegan restaurants and the ongoing list of cruelty free makeup brands. For example, if you are vegan and you have pondered over the thought of getting a tattoo, perhaps, you may want to do your research before getting inked. To many people’s surprise, getting a tattoo is actually not considered vegan in many (but not all) instances. Don’t worry, though- Blush has the scoop on how to make your tattoo animal friendly.
WHERE TO GET A VEGAN TATTOO IN NYC WHITE RABBIT TATTOO 121 Essex St, New York, NY 10002
GRISTLE TATTOO 26 Bushwick Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
DAREDEVIL TATTOO 141 Division St, New York, NY 10002
The takeaway? Just ask questions and do your research. There are many options available for those out there that are wanting to get inked. It is just a matter of finding the right option for you. That extra bit of research could save the lives of many of our four legged friends.
WHAT MAKES A TATTOO NON-VEGAN? The inks that many popular parlors carry and use on their clients contain
CARING FOR YOUR TATTOO After you get a vegan tattoo, you more
products such as bone char, which is derived from various animal bones, or
than likely will want to use vegan products
glycerin, which is a clear liquid that comes from animal fat. Another non-vegan
to care for it as it heals. A general concern
aspect of some tattoos include the aftercare products. Often times, the after-
for those with tattoos is keeping their black
care balms or lotions that parlors provide for their customers contain either
pigment as black as possible, as black is
lanolin or beeswax.
usually the first color to fade or change
CHOOSING THE RIGHT VEGAN INK FOR YOUR TATTOO Ok, so you’ve decided to get a vegan tattoo, but the artist you’ve had in mind does not tattoo with vegan products in their everyday practice. That’s okay, if you provide vegan alternatives to products, many artists will accommodate your wishes and work with you on producing the tattoo of your dreams! Some inks
to a bluish color over time. With consistent sunscreen and moisturizer use and proper aftercare, a vegan tattoo can last just as long and stay just as vibrant as a regular tattoo.
that are popular amongst vegan tattoo artists are Kuro Sumi Outlining Tattoo Ink, Skin Candy Tattoo Ink, Crazyhorse High Quality Lining Ink, and Southeast Tattoo Supply Ink, all available on Amazon for your convenience! FA L L 2 017
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DOSE OF COLORS MATTE LIQUID LIPSTICK IN PURPLE RAIN “TAKE ME BACK TO BRAZIL” EYESHADOW PALETTE 2BH 0 //COSMETICS BLUSH M AGF I T. COM
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEXIE LOU PRODUCED AND ASSISTED BY HANNAH KEIFFERT MAKEUP BY ALLISON YANG AND JAZMIN THOMAS MODELED BY EVAN TOMCHIN (MSA) AND CHAD BAILEY INTRODUCTION BY RYANN CASEY
ONE ARE THE DAYS OF MAKEUP MONOTONY. No longer is a boy’s relationship with beauty hidden and secretive. He isn’t sneaking concealer from mom’s makeup bag to cover a zit for picture day. He is submerged in makeup culture, finding the same confidence in color that so many generations of women have before him. Makeup has transposed daily routine into complex culture. YouTube tutorials, Instagram accounts, and Reddit threads are dedicated to makeup culture—a community that includes men. Men wearing makeup in the past has been a subculture, i.e. Marilyn Manson’s nail polish, Kurt Cobain’s hair color, and David Bowie’s blush. Unlike these icons of generations past, boys in beauty have infiltrated mass culture. Instead of pushing boundaries, they’re living outside of them. 22 / / B LUS H M AGFIT.COM
(OPPOSITE) COLOURPOP ULTRA MATTE LIP IN “WEDNESDAY” TARTE TARTEIST CREAMY MATTE LIP PAINT IN “BIRTHDAY SUIT”
KAT VON D TATTOO LINER IN “TROOPER BLACK”
Men in makeup aren’t a fad: They’re helping shape the multibillion-dollar beauty industry. Maybelline collaborated with Manny MUA to stay relevant. CoverGirl’s first-ever CoverBoy, James Charles, was a move to reinvent the brand. Cooler brands like Milk have gender-inclusive messaging woven into their brand identity, while brands like Anastasia Beverly Hills feature males in their campaigns to include the demographic. These efforts of cosmetic companies are meant to match millennial and Generation Z’s disinterest in gender identification. Gender stigmas are dissipating, and from this acceptance of men in beauty there is hope for a more inclusive future with further rejection of the gender binary. Regardless of gender, today’s beauty community is harnessing the subversive power of makeup. Beauty is power and confidence, and that freedom is genderless. 23 / / B LUSH M AGFIT.COM
URBAN DECAY MOONDUST EYESHADOW PALETTE
STILA MAGNIFICENT METALS GLITTER & GLOW LIQUID EYESHADOW IN “SEA SIREN” 24 // BLUSH M AGF I T. COM
NICKA K RADIANT LIQUID EYESHADOW IN “OCHROID TITAN” FENTY BEAUTY KILLAWATT FREESTYLE HIGHLIGHTER IN “TROPHY WIFE”
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BH COSMETICS BLUSHED NEUTRALS EYESHADOW & BLUSH PALETTE
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NOT ON MY WATCH
BY E R I CA F L E MI NG
THE FIGHT FOR CRITICALLY ENDANGERED ANIMALS AND WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP AM U R LEO PARD . VA Q UI TA . BL A CK RH IN O C ERO S .
beings who are not just for our consump-
donations go to field projects, so you can be
What do these three animals have in
tion. Vegans and animal rights activists
sure your money will make a difference. Go
common? They are all species that have
work to stop the exploitation of animals for
to: altaconservation.org
gone completely extinct within the last 40
use by humans. Below are a few species
The Vaquita, a marine mammal only
years or so—and they are far from alone.
that are currently endangered, and some
discovered in 1958, is another animal on
Scientists say that between 0.01 and 0.1
ways you can help:
the verge of extinction. It is considered the
percent of all species go extinct each year.
The Amur Leopard, found only in the
most endangered marine animal, with its
Considering the 2 million different species
temperate forests of northern Russia, is
existing population at just 30 individuals.
of plants and animals on the planet, that
one species that is critically endangered.
Vaquitas are small gray porpoises identified
equates to anywhere from 200 to 2,000
Their numbers have become so low due to
by black rings around their eyes. They have
species anually. The animals listed above all
poaching for their fur and the animals they
been pushed to the brink of extinction due
disappeared mainly due to human impact
prey on. Their numbers are estimated at
to illegal fishing practices. You can help
caused by poaching, habitat loss, and agri-
just 70 left in the wild. Find out more about
save the remaining Vaquitas by donating to
cultural development.
this beautiful animal and donate to the
the National Marine Mammal Foundation.
Amur Leopard and Tiger Alliance (ALTA) at
Donations are used to construct sanctuary
the link below. 100 percent of their
sea pens for these endangered animals. You
Many people go vegan because they recognize animals as valuable, sentient
can also sign a petition for the president of Mexico to commit to Vaquita conservation. Go to: nmmf.org and change.org Another critically-endangered animal is the Black Rhino, whose numbers in the wild remain at about 5,000. Rhinos exist in Eastern Africa, and first became endangered in the early 20th century by European settlers for sport or food. Today they are poached mostly for their ivory horns. Learn more about this cause at the website below. You can also donate to the Save the Rhino organization, which works to preserve all five species of rhinos. Go to: savetherhino.org
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ILLUSTRATION BY BELLA RAYKHMAN
HOW THE FASHION INDUSTRY EXPLOITS ANIMALS BY AV NI S HAH
I N TH E S C O P E O F V EG AN IS M , FAS H IO N , AN D B Y B R OA D E R CON T E XT,
clothing, is often forgotten as a facet of activism. The fashion industry kills 31 million animals every year to meet the demand for furs, leather, and silks. While this exploitation has been prevalent for years, even advances in technology have not made the processes to acquire these goods any less humane or unethical. This all begs the question: If we know the slaughter of animals for fashion is inhumane, how does the exploitation continue? One answer lies in the very methods used to acquire animal
LEATHER To produce leather, animals are skinned and excess flesh is stripped from the hide. Many times the animals are still alive when they’re skinned in order cause the least damage to the skin. The hide/skins are then spread and taken to tanning facilities to be softened and varnished to their desired finish.
products. Nearly all facets of the collection process values discretion at all costs. In fact, most consumers in today’s market can not tell apart real fur from its synthetic counterpart. The Humane Society UK ran tests on fur samples labeled ‘wool blend’ and ‘viscose,’ and showed that the fur was most likely a fox and rabbit blend. As awareness of the cruelty in the industry rose after the seventies, the explicit demand for fur and other animal products dropped considerably, taking the price down along with it. Many clothing outlets and producers are turning a blind eye to the suppliers and sourcing of their own products and materials. As recently as this year, it was found that Gucci, Michael Kors,
FUR Fur extraction facilities are often considered to have conditions similar to meat production facilities. In fact, fur farms hold hundreds of animals, such as minks, from birth till death with limited mobility in tight cages. To prevent damage to the fur and reduce cost, animals are either still conscious, or are killed by neck-breaking and electrocution.
and other large designer brands have used ‘monster foxes’ or genetically-modified foxes, which are held in cruel conditions for their fur products. As a result, many people, even those who would never consciously buy products affiliated with animal cruelty, are keeping the ugly underbelly of the fashion industry alive. So what are some of the ways animals are exploited?
SILK The process used to produce silk involves retrieving the cocoon of the silkworm. This is done by steaming or gassing the silkworm pupae’s alive in their cocoons. Around 3,000 silkworms die to make one pound of silk.
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B Y DANI SM IT H we can now digitally track each point in the
item. Being able to verify an item’s origin by
supply-chain in an easily accessible way; by
tracing it will allow consumers to have more
simply scanning the item we want.
confidence in what they buy. Therefore,
Getting to know the story behind garments gives the consumer the power of determining if a product meets values I M A GIN E A FU TUR E WHER E YOU C O U LD S C AN A
garment with your phone to learn everything about the item. From where the raw materials originated, to the working conditions an item was created in, consumers desire more transparency from the fashion industry supply-chain -- and blockchain technology could bring the revolution. Blockchain technology is a distributed database which maintains a growing list of records, called blocks. Each digital block is encrypted and contains a set of data with a timestamp and a link to the previous block. Once data is recorded in a block, it can’t be altered. As these encrypted blocks are connected, they provide a secure means of sharing information throughout an entire network in a verifiable and traceable manner. For the fashion world, this means
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confirming if a garment is entirely vegan will become a seamless process. Martine Jarlgaard, who is a London-based
that are important to the customer. Far too
designer, claims that the single compo-
often, items are tagged with “organic” and
nent that will get us there is technology.
“made ethically” without any evidence to
She states, “When I think about our world
support the claim. When an item is made
and outsourcing now, we’ve gained a great
on the blockchain, a microchip or a QR
distance to how things are made. We need
code accompanies the item as a means to
to re-educate ourselves. Technology will be
connect the physical to the digital. So, what
what helps to reconnect us to the people
are the benefits behind blockchain technol-
and the places involved, and that informa-
ogy? Blockchain technology can improve
tion will increase consumer expectations,
trust and brand accountability, which will
which will put more pressure on the big
ultimately lead to brand loyalty. As consum-
companies.”
ers, we will be able to know all the informa-
From the farm that produced the leather,
tion about the ingredients, composition,
through the supply chain, to the rack you
chemicals used, factories, working condi-
find yourself standing in front of; that’s the
tions, where the item was made, who made
power of blockchain technology. There is
it, how much they were paid, where the
a beautiful story to be told about each and
cotton was grown, which farm the leather
every garment. Let’s track the journey of
came from, where the wool came from,
raw materials through the supply chain to
and so on. Blockchain technology will bring
the finished product.
complete transparency to every physical
Who’s on board? ILLUSTRATION BY NIRELLI SHANNON
A TASTE OF YOUR
FOOD WASTE BY S O F I A WO L AK
One of the reasons America is one of the
the students or is leftover, is all composted.
largest culprits of food waste is that food in
The only thing that is truly wasted are the
this country is much cheaper to buy then in
cans which must be thrown away, as the
other places, so many people don’t have a
takeout containers are compostable also.
problem letting food go bad or not eating it
At FIT the best thing you can do to prevent
A S THE AWA R ENES S ARO U N D REC Y C LIN G ,
because they know they will be able to buy
food waste is to not take any more food than
composting, and green energy grows, food
the same thing the next day. Some Ameri-
you think you can eat. Although the amount
waste is also something that Americans
cans buy their food for aesthetic purposes
of food that is provided with the meal
need to be educated about. America is
only, and wouldn’t ever think about buying
exchange may seem tempting to get, you
one of the leading countries in food waste
a bruised peach. Especially with the world
may not be able to eat it all. Don’t get food
with over 40% of the food being wasted
we live in now many “foodies” on Instagram
that you are not going to eat just because it
or thrown away according to the NRDC
and other social media sites are posting
is available to you. It is also best if you think
(Natural Resources Defense Council), with
pictures of their meals. They would not
that you are not going to eat your entire
the biggest blame landing on consumer
think to post food that is not in perfect
meal, to eat in the dining hall so that there is
businesses, restaurants, grocery stores,
condition.
some place where you are able to compost
and individual households. The businesses
Other programs around the country are
it. Food waste is a rising issue in our society
that produce the food products also play a
also trying to help create awareness and
so every little bit an individual can do to help
large role in waste as many of the products
fix this problem. The NRDC is working with
does make a difference in the big picture.
that are created in factories or grown on
cities around the country, one of which is
farms do not even see the dinner table or
New York, and is taking steps to reduce the
the inside of a supermarket.
amount of food wasted, the UN is working
Many products get thrown away or
with the EPA and USDA to cut the amount
discarded because they do not fit the
of food waste in half by the year 2030, and
specific color or look that most companies
feeding America rescues food and gives it
want their products to have. For example,
back to people who are facing hunger. Big
food such as peanut butter may not be
companies are also getting involved in the
creamy or chunky enough to make it into
fight to reduce food waste. Every night,
the jar, and a peach may not be the right
trucks pick up the unsold food from Star-
size or color to display in store. Although all
bucks and redirect it to all the local food
of these products are perfectly edible and
banks.
could be given to families in need, they are
What can you do to help? The Director of
just thrown away because they will not sell
Dining Services at FIT stated that all of the
in the consumer market.
food in the dining hall that is not eaten by
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAURA CERVINI
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BIOTECH CLOTHING: Wearable Vegan Clothing
I M A GIN E WALKI NG D OWN THE S TREETS O F N EW Y O RK C ITY and
seeing people wearing sweaters made out of algae. This is coming at a time in which many fast fashion companies, such as Zara, H&M, and Forever21, are producing too much waste that the planet cannot keep up with. Currently, biotech is still developing, but in the future expect to see more clothing being made in stores from renewable resources. So, the question you’ve all been waiting for: Will biotech be a major part of vegan fashion in the future? Many people do not know what biotech is, because it is a new, developing technology. As defined by bio.org, biotech is “technology based on biology— biotechnology harnesses cellular and biomolecular processes to develop technologies and products that help improve our lives and the health of our planet.” The main innovation in creating textiles with biotechnology
BY C ON O R HAF F E Y
development of this protein, McCartney has the ambition to develop many more forms of sustainable materials within the fashion industry. Moreover, with the production of new decomposable textiles, the question remains: will the fashion cycle begin to evolve? Currently, the fashion cycle is the process of manufacturing a garment, selling it to the consumers, and then waiting for it to be thrown into a landfill after the consumer is finished wearing the garment. This cycle must stop because it is polluting our earth and affecting our fellow animals. If the fashion industry started to use biotech textiles, our fashion cycle would be
“ THE QUESTION REMAINS:
WILL THE FASHION CYCLE BEGIN TO EVOLVE? ”
was the creation of bio-algae knit material, which was created by FIT students for the Biodesign Challenge. This textile is made out of many different types of algae and fungi. One may not know that when the material comes out, it comes out in the form of a filament. The filament is then hand-woven into a garment. Manufacturing garments like this in the future will have a great effect on the planet and the sustainability of the fashion industry. Just like the algae knit, many fashion designers are looking for ways to create biotech garments that do not involve the use of animals or harmful chemicals. For example, the designer Stella McCartney developed a lab-made yarn that is made from protein. With the
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much more beneficial to The Earth. The cycle would be continuous since the textiles are constructed from a decomposable material that can be help the ecosystem. Biotechnology will continue to progress in the future, and it will hopefully lead to some great discoveries in textiles. The use of the biotech textiles would help promote the use of textiles throughout the industry, from high-end ready-to-wear to fast fashion. The cycle of fashion will evolve to help become a renewable source of materials that will help the earth, instead of harm it. Not long from now in the future, we will see people walking down 5th avenue, in their fresh-off-therunway, fashion-forward biotech clothing.
Vega ni s m
B Y K AT I E CO STA
VEGANS ARE PROTEIN DEFICIENT
VEGAN FOOD IS BORING
Ah, the passive aggressive comment that
Alright...to bust this myth, here is a list of
all vegans get time and time again: “Where
junk foods that are vegan: Oreos, Duncan
do you get your protein?” There is no doubt
Hines cake mix and frosting, potato chips,
that humans need protein in their diet.
Pringles, Hershey’s chocolate syrup,
Protein builds muscle, allows your organs
Pillsbury Crescent rolls, Ritz, Unfrosted Pop
to run smoothly, and keeps your brain alert
Tarts, Nutter Butters, Krispy Kreme fruit
and healthy. Protein isn’t only found in meat
pies, Teddy Grahams, Ghirardelli Double
though, and to think that is a caveman’s
Chocolate Brownie Mix, Spicy Sweet Chili
verdict. It is surprisingly simple to get the
Doritos, Sour Patch Kids, and Cracker Jack
amount of protein needed per day from
Popcorn. And there’s plenty more where
just plant-based products. If as a vegan, a
that came from. Enough said.
well-rounded diet is consumed and there is
VEGANS HAVE WEAK BONES
ample calorie intake, odds are protein defi-
Many of us have grown up with the idea that
VEGANS ARE FITNESS OBSESSED
strong bones comes from drinking milk! The “Got Milk?” campaign posters were
Sure, we all see those vegan girls on Insta-
that you find out about from a friend of a
gram that are totally ripped and look like
friend of a friend. While vegans come in
glowing island princesses. Too bad those
all shapes and sizes, the common vegan
are a rare breed, a highly motivated and
most definitely can chow down on some
super self-disciplined breed. So, if they
Oreos and potato chips. Results come from
were a dog, you would definitely have to
what people choose to do with the vegan
get them from an exclusive dog breeder
lifestyle, not simply just making the switch.
plastered all over the walls of the common elementary school for years. Even though milk is advertised as the only source of calcium, that doesn’t mean there aren’t alternative sources. These include: plant milks, tofu, kale, mustard greens, chia seeds, oranges, beans, and broccoli.
Like any lifestyle or diet change, you get out ILLUSTRATION BY NICOLE RUFFINO
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I WAS VEGAN FOR A WEEK AND
ALL I GOT WAS THIS DAMN ARTICLE BY BRANDON SALOY
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O
N THE WARM, STICKY EVENING of September 24th I stood considering a loaf of bread longer than I ever had before. My eyes scanned, for what had to be a full five minutes, for two keywords: milk, eggs. If you’ve never had to look for these things in the food you eat, you’ve probably never given these common culprits much thought. I
surely had not. I was learning all too quickly that night in aisle 10 that the road to veganism is not paved in quick stops at the grocery store that could be fit into a lunch-hour. Not this early in the game.
I had done a lot of thinking that night
week is a lot easier than telling all the world
twenty-one-year-old male, to lose weight,
about the last meals of men condemned
to boycott the meat industry altogether. In
that possibility seemed slight. That being
to death. There are a few ways you can go
beginning this experiment, I was not one bit
said, who am I to turn down dropping a few
about this. You can make a spectacle and
worried about missing meat for this single
pounds?
order ten sirloins all done up in onions and
week. What I was already mourning the loss
gravy, but who wants to bother with all that
of that night in the supermarket, however,
What would I do if presented with the
cutting and chewing in your last hours of
was dairy.
spontaneous dinner out with friends? I’ve
breath? You can order a favorite pastime—
The simple fact is that whether we give
What daunted me was the unexpected;
always sort of judged people who seem
your mother’s casserole, your grand-
it any thought or not, dairy is in practically
annoyed when there aren’t vegan options
mother’s brisket—but this, of course, leaves
everything—or at least in most of the things
at whatever, say, Italian restaurant they’re
you vulnerable to the risk of receiving the
that I enjoy on a daily basis.
at. A culture rooted in eating cured meats
worst brisket you’ve ever had, thus ruining
A diet like this takes planning, most of
the idea of a last meal altogether. You can
which had to be done before I even went to
accommodate people with such severe
make a statement: A single olive?
the supermarket that night. I had done my
limitations on their diet. Maybe it’s small-
research the week prior, combing through
minded of me, but I didn’t want to have to be
of meat-freedom that night was at a family
all the vegan recipe sites, blogs, Youtube
that guy.
get-together at an establishment not of my
channels, and beyond to find a wheelhouse
choosing. At this restaurant, guests line
of meals and snacks I could depend on for
I left school in the evening to see Hello
up for tables on a red carpet strategically
the next week. I considered what ingredi-
Dolly! with my boyfriend. We needed to
placed in front of a glass case of raw meat,
ents had to be acquired to replace the ones
grab dinner first, and in a blind attempt at
from which you are encouraged to pick a
I had at home that were not compliant (I
a simple solution I Yelp’d “vegan food” and
specific slab for your meal. Feeling the irony
swapped chicken broth for vegetable and
found a little place just a few blocks from
was just a tad too on-the-nose, I avoided
regular milk for almond, etc.).
campus! (It’s amazing the places you don’t
In an obnoxious coincidence my last meal
eye-contact with the beef and went with a chicken breast in a light mushroom sauce.
What I was excited for was eating more
and cheeses can’t be expected to bend to
That night happened mid-week, when
notice when you don’t have any need for
vegetables. I really didn’t want to be the type meat-and-dairy-less options) We went in of vegan that simply searches for all of the
and I ordered a hot wrap with curry vegeta-
I DON’T EAT MEAT EVERY DAY, and I don’t
junk food that just happens to be vegan.
bles and soy protein.
feel that I have to. I’ve read all the same
As someone who has always suffered from
Here’s the thing about soy-protein and
articles that you have that advocate for
acne, I was interested to see whether or not
all it’s meatless cousins: I’m not about food
controlled meat-and-dairy consumption.
eating better would do anything for my skin.
that pretends to be other food. I like food
To manage the climate crisis we now face,
As for losing weight, I wasn’t all that inter-
to be up front about what it is and how it
cutting meat out of three or four meals in a
ested, and despite how easy it is for me, a
tastes. I love a tofu, but please don’t patron-
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THE ASSIGNMENT: KEEP A 100% VEGAN DIET FOR ONE SCHOOL WEEK TO REPORT TO THE CARNIVOROUS READERS OF BLUSH WHAT IT REQUIRES TO CUT ALL ANIMAL PRODUCTS OUT OF ONE’S DIET. WITH ONLY ABOUT SIX HOURS TO SPARE OF MEAT-EATING FREEDOM, I KNEW I HAD MY WORK CUT OUT FOR ME. 3 6 / / B LUSH M AGFIT.COM
Here are some of the things I used to curb that vacant feeling, as well as what I learned to avoid: SWEET POTATOES They saved my life. They’re sweet (duh), a great
SMOKED PAPRIKA A friend introduced me to this earlier this year. If
source of vitamins and dietary fiber, and they fill you up, which is
you’re missing that smokey taste of any kind of grilled meat, add this
crucial when you’re cutting
to your veggies in the skillet for a smokey, savory good time.
out more than half of the food you’re used to eating.
OREOS I know I said I didn’t want to be eating junk food the whole
NUTRITIONAL YEAST People will tell you that this powdery, flaky
time, but I needed some sort of touchstone to the non-vegan world.
substance tastes like cheese. They are lying to you.
We’re all fools for thinking that Oreo “cream” is really such. As per the Oreo website, there is “cross-contact” between Oreos and milk in the factory, but I am an ameture vegan and this did not bother me.
ize me by moulding it into the shape of a
I get when someone sits uncomfortably
recipes that I tried and while they did
drumstick with a wooden bone down the
close to me in an otherwise empty subway
require more prep than my usual on-the-go-
center. I know what chicken tastes like. All
car. One can only think of the comfort they
lunches, they’re not at all hard to assemble.
this being said, the wrap was delicious and
could easily have when the choices are all
Many of them don’t even require cooking
I would have it again. The boyfriend enjoyed
before them. All this being said, I would
and consist of just a few ingredients. For
his kale salad.
recommend to anyone giving this a try to
instance, I liked the sweet potato salad I
do so—if in any way possible—in complete
made so much that I made a big batch of it
I LEARNED BY THE SECOND DAY that my
isolation from the things one shouldn’t
to eat as a side dish for the entire week.
morning routine is my most challenging
be eating.
vegan hour. Now, since I tried this diet
I’ve always loved cooking. When I cook I
As for the effects that the week had on me, while my energy level had to be more
purely for the documentary experience
am immediately transported to my Grand-
frequently replenished, in no way did I feel
you’re now reading, I made sure to leave
mother’s kitchen, the place where I learned
that I had less energy throughout the day.
time in my schedule to prep meals for the
practically everything I know about prepar-
One friend asked me if I was dizzy from not
next day. This, however, is something I’m
ing a meal. I was shocked at how emotion-
having meat protein—I replied with a confi-
confident would not always happen in my
ally tied I was to a lot of the food that I eat.
dent “no.” No weight loss or skin improve-
day-to-day life.
For instance, a lazy Sunday morning feels a
ment was noticed (I’m sure that would
little empty without a fried egg and glass of
happen over a longer period of time), but my
cranberry juice.
digestion during the week was impeccable
But on an entirely different note, I began to realize during these mornings the emotional effects of beginning this lifestyle.
(to be filed under “Things I Never Thought I’d
As someone who lives with their family, it’s
THE TAKEAWAY: I don’t think this is for
not as if I could simply discard or use up all
me. My main gripe about eating vegan was
Going vegan is clearly not for everyone.
of the non-vegan foods in the fridge in order
the healthy things that I was unable to eat.
I’m sure you didn’t have to read this article
to keep meaty temptation at bay. Every
Forget all the questionable dietary choices
to know that. But it is doable if you really
time I went to the fridge or pantry for food,
that I cut out for a moment and consider
give it your best shot. As a person who is
I was immediately confronted by all of the
fish. Delicious, good for you, and totally off
principally adverse to being strictly limited
things that were ideologically out of reach
the table if you’re going vegan. Incredibly
in any way, this dip into vegan waters was
Write In a Blush Article”).
to me. That feeling of restriction was almost frustrating.
a power struggle with myself that I would
claustrophobic; I likened it to the feeling
rather not repeat.
This being said, I did love some of the
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DESIGNER FEATURE
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PHOTOGRAPY BY RICHARD DIFRISCO HAIR & MAKEUP BY LIANA PRINZEVALLI MODELED BY JADE KEDRICK WITH MAJOR MODELS AND DORIS SHAPIRO
The body of the jacket as well as most of the trim throughout the collection is made from Thermo-chromatic color change polyurethane (changes color with heat). The polyurethane and the faux fur were donated by Sommers Plastics. The collection incorporated clothing which was re-purposed: sweatshirt, t-shirts and plaid shirts. 3 9 / / B LUSH M AGFIT.COM
hristina DeGaglia is a fashion designer, artist, and vegan who graduated the Fashion Institute of Technology with a Bachelors of Fine Arts majoring in Fashion Design sportswear. While at FIT, she educated herself about the needless abuse, exploitation, and murder of our fellow earthlings for food, fashion, and entertainment. She felt that there would be no point in creating beautiful fashion if it could not help animals. That is why she made this collection her senior year and why she will continue to make animal rights-inspired clothing. She hopes her collection makes people think about the choices they make every day and how they impact themselves, the planet, and the most innocent beings on Earth.
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THE VEGAN VIGILANTES AND WHERE THEY GO
G R N O W fruit, says CNN. Though veganism does reduce carbon emissions, food wastage creates bigger problems. Plus, veganism does not use all of Earth’s arable land, as stated by Quartz. Though this does not impact the environment directly, with 8 billion humans, a vegan world is feeding less people. Finally, 12 percent of the globe’s arable area is growing rice, which produces a comparable carbon footprint to beef. (Anyone looking to be rice-itarian? No? Didn’t think so.) If global veganism is the goal, then humans have to turn to daily staples to fill the gap in their
B Y G RAC E P EISK E R
diets—rice included. Back to square one. Until then, someone else is eating the meat that vegans leave in the grocery store. A vegan world is a great idea, but logistics like these cause significant prob-
W E LCO M E TO NE W YOR K , ONE OF T H E M O S T V EG AN - FRIEN DLY C ITIES .
lems. Science says we could dial back our carbon footprint, but not
There are 3.7 million vegans country-wide, according to VeganBits.
totally with veganism. Currently developing is In-Vitro meat, aka
Overall, Vegan Outreach claims that Americans are shifting towards
meat grown in a lab from parts of other meat. Supermarkets are
a paleo diet. However, this is slow. Only about three million people
also changing, and 10 percent of grocery store buys are dedicated
have gone vegan in the past twenty years. Meanwhile, the Earth is
to health foods. This growth could mean widespread veganism,
warming quickly, and science is turning to vegans for inspiration;
rather than just in major cities. A light is being shined on food waste
search “vegan by 2050”and several sites like HuffPost and BBC
as well. With these progressions in society, a healthier world lies
claim a vegan America by 2050 is possible, and effective. However,
ahead. Besides going vegan, the most important thing to do is stay
due to the meat industry and climate change, changing an entree
informed. It is our responsibility to understand how our actions
from beef to tofu can’t be the best or most efficient solution for
affect the world now more than ever. None of us here at FIT are
the world today in stopping climate change. There are significant
scientists, (besides maybe some textile kids) but when we are
issues with going vegan for the environment. One of the biggest is
conscientious of the food we eat and the impact we make, society
food waste. One is less likely to toss fresh meat than vegetables or
progresses towards a better future.
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ILLUSTRATION BY CHRISTA CAMP
DIRTY SECRET BY BE L L A CACCI ATO R E
Eating disorders are often an issue of control, and a diet based on restrictions is the perfect outlet for those suffering to exercise I S I T JUS T ME, OR DO ES IT S EEM IM P O S S IB LE TO S C RO L L T H R OUGH
Instagram without a vegan meal or smoothie bowl coming across
excessive control over their food. A 2012 study found that the general population went vegetarian
your feed. It seems like everywhere you turn, Lulu Lemon-clad
because of current trends or to be “healthier,” while nearly half of
influencers are urging their followers to begin a “clean” lifestyle,
the participants studied with an eating disorder chose a vegetarian
consisting of a vegan diet and lots of yoga. “Wellness” has taken over
diet solely for weight-related reasons. However, the same study
millennials full-force, but this concept, hidden behind crystals and
also found that vegetarians with eating disorders often reported
juice cleanses, may be doing more harm than good.
symptoms before choosing to become vegetarian, meaning
While it is more than okay to encourage a healthy lifestyle while
vegetarianism doesn’t cause eating disorders, but rather can be
conserving animal and environmental resources, it is important to
used as an excuse. For example, it is much easier to justify skipping
take into account what effects words can have, especially for those
a meal or eating just an apple for lunch when there are no vegan
suffering from eating orders. First of all, eating “clean” implies that
options to eat.
there is something inherently “dirty” or shameful about the food we put in our bodies.
Our current wellness culture creates an environment where vegan diets are celebrated, not only making it easy to restrict food, but making it appear an admirable and healthy choice. Vegan,
OUR CURRENT WELLNESS CULTURE CREATES AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE VEGAN DIETS ARE CELEBRATED
gluten free, and paleo diets can most definitely be done in a healthy and positive way, and people chose these diets for a multitude of reasons. It’s not these diets themselves that are harmful; the thought process that eating organic lettuce somehow makes you
This culture of food-shaming leads us to believe that there is
a better person than someone enjoying a bag of chips is what’s
such thing a thing as “good” and “bad” food, and to be hyper-aware
making the trend dangerous. In a world where trendy diets are the
of everything we put in our bodies. While it is clear that certain
norm, veganism
foods are better for our bodies, for someone who has a difficult
can just be a social-
relationship with food, it is essential that they establish a positive
ly-acceptable, or
relationship with food period. Labeling certain foods as “toxic” will
even celebrated
enhance the stigma surrounding food, and create a negative
eating disorder.
relationship between you and what’s on your plate.
And there’s nothing
For those who are prone to restrictive eating, or may be recovering from an eating disorder, veganism, gluten free, or paleo diets can be a slippery slope. While the goal of these diets are positive, they can mask, and even justify harmful behavior. ILLUSTRATIONS BY NICOLE RUFFINO
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clean about that.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY TESSA NORTON MODELED BY AWA DOUMBIA, ZHANÉ NORMAN, KAYLA MONROE, AND VANESSA STEVENSON
naturalistas BY R E BE K A BO N I LLA
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WHEN YOU LOOK U P “ B EAU TIFU L H AIR” O N
hair. They routinely repeat this process to
Google the first picture that comes up is a
keep up with what they have been taught is
of your hair! Many natural girls dive into the
woman with polished, straight hair. We live
beautiful. So many young girls around us are
curly hair lifestyle by making homemade
in a culture that considers “good hair” to be
changing themselves to be something that
hair masks, incorporating different types of
shiny, frizz-free, and silky. Like many
they’re not, instead of embracing what they
oils to replenish and nourish their curls. Like
situations, society sets an unrealistic
were blessed with.
many women, our very own “Naturalistas” at
standard of beauty on our hair. Women all around the world have thin hair, thick hair, waves, curls, kinks, and ‘fros! A revolution has been emerging, changing how we view our hair. Over the last decade, beauty has evolved, and more and more women of color have been proudly joining the “natural hair movement” However, for many years, women have felt pressured to manipulate their hair in an effort to appeal to European standards of beauty. Women of color have used perms, relaxers, and straightening combs to assimilate into mainstream beauty ideals. Sometimes known as the “creamy crack,” relaxers are lotions or creams that make the hair easier to straighten and manage. From the young age of even 7 years old, girls with beautiful ringlets start relaxing their
WEARING OUT YOUR NATURAL HAIR RADIATES BEAUTY THAT COMES FROM EMBRACING YOUR TRUE SELF.
So show love to your hair by taking care
FIT have similar journeys to other women who decide to go natural: From disliking their curly hair and straightening it to fully embracing and loving their mane. We see natural hair rising up in our culture through runway shows and feminism. Celebrities like Solange and Alicia Keys are crusaders for natural hair and
The natural hair movement focuses on
inspire girls to flaunt their locks. Slowly
encouraging women of color to celebrate
but surely, society is accepting all hair as
and enjoy their kinky, curly texture. So what
beautiful. Living the natural hair lifestyle
does “going natural” actually mean? Natural
is liberating; by not altering your hair, you
hair is defined as African-American hair, or
can embrace who you fully are. Above
similar hair types, that is relaxer-and-
everything else, being natural means being
chemical-free. Natural hair refers to the
you. Wearing out your natural hair radiates
texture of your hair, so changing the color
beauty that comes from embracing your
of your hair, wearing weaves or wigs, or
true self. When women join the natural hair
flat-ironing your hair from time to time
movement, it’s a choice not only to embrace
doesn’t mean you are no longer natural.
their curls but to uncompromisingly embrace their identity.
FA LL 2 017 // 47
: L A E R O ’ INSIDE L
? E E R F Y C R U E LT
CH SB AU M BY KA SE Y BU
S, ILY S T E P H E N T IO N S M E H IT W W A N IN T E R V IE C O R P O R AT E C O M M U N IC A F D IR E C T O R O
If L’Oreal is active with organizations
Centre is to promote new and
such as The European Partnership for
improved testing efficiencies in the
Alternative Approaches to Animal Testing
cosmetic industry.
(EPAA), why does the company continue to sell in markets that require animal testing
How does L’Oreal feel about consumers
by law?
that choose not to buy their products
Even though L’Oreal is in cooperation with
specifically because they sell in animal
these organizations, they choose to sell the
testing markets?
brand in countries such as China to main-
The company understands the concern
tain international market recognition. By
for animals and the moral aspects of the
working with these government organiza-
wrongdoings of testing products in such a
tions, it is easier to influence change.
way. L’Oreal has been incredibly engaged in the movement to put a stop to this
With L’Oreal’s huge influence and platform worldwide, why are they not using these opportunities to promote the importance of cruelty-free products? L’Oreal is an influencer in working with
What actions is L’Oreal taking to eliminate
testing worldwide. With this being said, the
animal testing laws and regulations in
company remains off of the cruelty-free list
China? Does L’Oreal fund the testing?
only because of their sales in various coun-
With programs such as the Episkin Centre,
tries that require the animal testing by law.
it shows the government programs there
L’Oreal products are not tested on animals
are alternatives out there to testing on
in any way during the creation process.
animals. However, the company never has denied paying for animal testing to be done.
government programs, in various countries,
Does L’Oreal plan to be completely cruelty free in the future?
to end the cosmetic testing on animals.
How is L’Oreal’s Episkin Centre in Shanghai
L’Oreal remains one of the most actively
At the moment, the company claims to
influencing the industry?
involved companies in working with govern-
not be able to prevent the regulatory tests
Although the government testing on
ment authorities to put an end to animal
from being performed in these countries.
animals has decreased thanks to
testing. Over time, with new innovations the
However, in 2014, it became evident that
inventive forthcomings similar to the
company is working towards providing only
certain products, including shampoo, body
Episkin Centre, these testing regulations
alternative testings in governments all over
wash, or specific make-up items are not
are still being required for the vast majority
the world. The health and safety of
tested on animals.
of the imports. The purpose of the Episkin
customers is a priority for the company.
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HALAL BEAUTY
Most of us go intoour everyday beauty routine without giving much thought to what is actually in our products. There are oils, vitamins, and minerals, but there are also chemicals, alcohol, and various animal by-products. With an alternative, more natural beauty category, halal beauty, you won’t have to worry about what’s in your lipstick or hairspray anymore.
BY K I A NA CL E VI NG ER
HA L A L MEA NS L AWFU L O R P ERM ITTED IN ARAB IC , and has been around
since the creation of Islam where its guidelines were described in the Qur’ān, Islam’s sacred text. Products labeled “Halal” are manufactured, produced, and composed of ingredients that are permissible under Islamic law. Pork, blood, and animals that were dead prior to slaughtering, alcohol, and animal fat are a few examples of what is considered “haram,” or “forbidden” in Arabic. This means halal beauty products aren’t always vegan, but are always cruelty-free, otherwise it wouldn’t be considered acceptable according to the religious practice. Halal doesn’t fall only in a beauty category, as it is also a lifestyle, meaning it refers to clothing and food as well.
SO WHY SWITCH TO HALAL BEAUTY PRODUCTS? Although not all halal beauty is vegan, it is more organic and natural. Studies show that one in eight of the average 82,000 ingredients used in personal care products are industrial chemicals. There are little to none of those toxic chemicals such as carcinogens, pesticides, reproductive toxins, hormone disruptors, plasticizers, degreasers, and surfactants found in halal products. For those of us that want to try a more natural lifestyle, you should consider halal beauty to start. Some halal brands to try out are FX Cosmetics, SAAF Skincare, One Pure, Amara Cosmetics, and Sampure Mineral. Although these halal brands aren’t sold in stores like Sephora and Ulta yet, you can still find them on their websites.
ILLUSTRATION BY CHRISTA CAMP
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FASHION DESIGNERS THAT USE VEGAN FABRICS
B Y EMILLY ME DE RSKI
SUSI STUDIOS SUSI Studios, based in LA, focuses on compassion towards animals, humanity, and the environment. The founder, Bianca Moran, opened the first vegan eatery in the Philippines and worked to promote a cleaner, more compassionate lifestyle. This was incorporated into her brand. Alternative materials are canvas, hemp, faux leather, and denim.
MATT & NAT In MattandNat, the breakdown is (Mat)erial and (Nat)ure. The brand is all for sustainability and all things clean living. Manufacturing warehouses use the SA8000 Standard of operations to maintain the proper treatment of workers, and they are visited regularly. Products are made cruelty-free, vegan, and out of recycled materials. MattandNat uses the motto that “If you haven’t used it in the last six months, someone else can!”
ARMANI GROUP Everyone knows the ever popular Giorgio Armani. Within the past year, the Armani Group made the decision to forfeit the use of all animal furs in their products due to the unnecessary cruelty, and because there are so many different technologically advanced alternatives out there. While not 100% vegan, they are headed in that
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direction.
CANINE COUTURE BY K I R S T E N LU T LE Y
P ET FA S HI ON: I S IT C U TE, O R C RU EL? TH IS H AS B EEN A H OT TOPI C SI N CE
before Paris Hilton stepped out with her chihuahua, Tinkerbell, decked out in matching outfits. But the ethical implications of dressing up animals has sparked international debate.
On one hand, some argue that certain animals need the extra clothing. A small domesticated dog may need that protection
Others think that it’s simply
from the elements that can only be offered
animal abuse to be using
by a pooch-sized coat. Others just see pet
the pet as a kind of fashion
fashion as a fun way to make your pet even
accessory, as it goes against the
more unique. Recently, many pet owners
natural order and behavior of a dog.
gathered at the Madison Square Park dog
Pet fashion is widely celebrated around
park to let their pets play around, and many
the world as a cute and fun way to express
of them wore outfits. Some wore them
your pet’s personality. Brands like Canine
up your pet? “It’s all about knowing your
because they needed the extra warmth, like
Styles, Ruby Rufus, and Central Park Pups
pet’s personality and what’s right for them”,
Princess (a maltese), who wore a pink and
specialize in high-end pet fashion. Drag
said Brandon, the owner of a labradoodle
blue sweater to keep her protected from
queen Sasha Velour recreates her iconic Ru
named Bear, “Bear loves to wear Halloween
the windy New York breeze. Others, like
Paul’s Drag Race looks through her Italian
costumes, but he’s uncomfortable in hats
labradoodle Henry, donned a lion’s mane
greyhound, Vanya. Pet fashion shows pop
and boots.” If you want to experiment with
just for fun.
up around the world not just for fun,
fur coloring, make sure you buy something
On the other hand, the clothing may hurt or restrain
but to raise money for various animal charities.
So how should one go about dressing
that is pet-safe and go lightly. Once your furry friend indicates that they’re not a fan
the animal, or dyes
of what’s going on, it’s time to stop. This is a
may irritate the
new experience for them, and at the end
animal’s coat.
of the day, it all comes down to your pet’s unique personality and style.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHARLOTTE SPAID
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getting boozy (minus the hangover)
B Y C A RO LINE WILCOX There’s a new, intoxicating trend hitting the market, and you may even see it on the chalkboard outside your favorite bar. Meant to incorporate all of the senses, boozy fragrances are exactly what they sound like: perfumes or colognes that smell like an alcoholic beverage. These scents come from moods and atmospheres and are meant to provoke a feeling. Rather than smelling like a night of bad decisions, they capture the essence of a drink and form it into an aromatic experience. Saskia Wilson-Brown, founder of LA’s Institute for Art and Olfaction says that the “foodie movement” is connected to the niche perfumes “since people who appreciate fine liqueurs and artisan coffees also appreciate artisan perfumes.” So drink—or rather spritz—to these five boozy fragrances.
wine
For when you meet a friend at an unnecessarily fancy
whiskey
Wear this on a late, sunny afternoon while sitting next to a smoky, crackling fire. This fragrance delivers a warm and fuzzy feeling with an intense sweetness layered under aged wood. Pour a cocktail while smoking a cigar, get comfy in a huge armchair, and let this fragrance transport you to a New Orleans speakeasy circa 1927, with it’s notes of whiskey, rum, leather, and tobacco. Maison Margiela Replica Eau de Toilette in Jazz Club $125
gin
hotel bar for a drink after work. The combination
Forget the gut-stuffing dinner parties, this one is for a
of sweet and spicy aromas create a sensual feeling
lavish night out on which the possibilities are endless.
without the anguish of spilling it on your clean, white
You go out to a new and intimate club. The atmosphere
top. This modern personality scent is exotic: Clean and
is deep, dark, and mysterious as the only lighting comes
fresh, yet seductive and sensual.
from the ambient glow of small candles on the wooden
Kelly + Jones Reserve Collection $75 (choose from
tables. The playlist is a low murmuring of heart to heart
Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Grigio, Cabernet, Riesling,
conversations between good friends. Gin scents are
and Rose)
refreshing, yet sensual; reminiscent of an expensive martini.
rum
Both sweet and spicy, this fragrance is your perfect companion to a party in Antigua. A simple mix of wood and a mouth-burning sip of aged rum is mixed into a powerful scent evoking the feeling of when tropical house music mixes with the beat of your heart. Nasomatto Baraonda $141.59
ILLUSTRATION BY TAYLOR BENDER
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Tom Ford Costa Azzurra $225
BY ME L I S S A D EO L I V E I R A
vegetarian dim sum house
the butcher’s daughter
screamer’s pizzeria
Stars: 3.5
Stars: 3.5
Stars: 4
Best for cheap and quick dim sum.
Best for Sunday brunch.
Best for pizza, duh!
Location: 24 Pell Street
Location: 581 Hudson Street
Location: 620 Manhattan Avenue
New York, NY 10013b/t
New York, NY 10014b/t
Brooklyn, NY 11222b/t Nassau Avenue
Doyers Street & Mott Street, Chinatown
11th Street & Bank Street, West Village
& Driggs Avenue, Greenpoint
blossom
cinnamon snail
confectionary
Stars: 4
Stars: 4
Stars: 5
Best for intimate dinner dates.
Best for a donut in between classes.
Best for satisfying a sweet tooth.
Location: 187 9th Avenue
Location: The Pennsy, 2 Pennsylvania Plaza
Location: 440 E 9th Street
New York, NY 10011b/t
New York, NY 10121, Midtown West
New York, NY 10009b/t East 9th Street &
21st Street & 22nd Street, Chelsea
by chloe Stars: 4 Best for a quick yet hearty lunch. Location: 185 Bleecker Street New York, NY 10012b/t Sullivan Street & Mac Dougal Street, Greenwich Village
superiority burger Stars: 4 Best for greasy guilty pleasures. Location: 430 E 9th Street New York, NY 10009b/t East 9th Street & Avenue A, East Village, Alphabet City
Avenue A, East Village, Alphabet City
terri Stars: 4 Best for quick takeout lunches. Location: 100 Maiden Lane New York, NY 10038b/t Pearl Street & Gold Street, Financial District
champs diner Stars: 4 Best for late night breakfast for dinner. Location: 197 Meserole Street Brooklyn, NY 11206b/t Bushwick Avenue & Humboldt Street, East Williamsburg
LETTERING BY AGA M AG D Z IAK
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THE MORAL LINE OF
VEGANISM B Y MEL KEIFER
A VEG AN IS DEF I NED A S S OMEONE W H O DO ES
workers from other countries. Partic-
heavily buried in overseas product devel-
not consume or use any animal products.
ularly India, where 60% of the cashews
opment, it’s not the only one. Clothing is a
Vegans believe it is inhumane to eat, use, or
consumed globally are processed. There,
big issue when it comes to being “cruelty
take anything from another living creature.
workers risk their health and their lives to
free” and “vegan.” A lot of clothing worn in
Vegans will not eat honey or use beeswax
earn 30p a day, the equivalent of around
the U.S is made overseas, in sweatshops,
candles because it is taking something
40 cents in U.S money. These workers risk
specifically in China and Taiwan. Compa-
made by another living creature. Many
caustic burns, which they get due to the
nies attempt to distance themselves from
vegans make sure that the make up they
acids that lay between the two layers of the
the imagery and idea of sweatshops by
buy and shampoo they use is completely
hard shell of the nut. Some of these cashew
using inbetween companies that claim
cruelty free and is not tested on animals. It
workers are forced into labor camps where
to “be better.” They promote safer and
is usually their goal to live a happy, healthy
they are beaten into harvesting, clean-
better working conditions, yet then they
life that does not harm another living crea-
ing and preparing cashews for american
secretly pay sweatshops to do a large
ture. Yet, what many people forget to look
consumption.
amount of the more labor-intensive work
at in their search for cruelty free products
Loved by many and easily made vegan,
of clothing assembly. These sweatshops
is whether the people who are making,
chocolate is consumed en masse in the
are located in dangerous and old buildings
picking, collecting their product are treated
United States and by most vegans. Most
that are not kept up to any safety regula-
to the same cruelty free standards they
of the cocoa used to make the chocolate
tions. The workers are often young women
hold for other creatures. Can a brand truly
eaten in America is harvested and refined
and children, who have no other way to
be vegan, be humane, if humans are being
through child labor. An estimated 2.1 million
help support their families. The workers
mistreated for the product?
West African children do dangerous and
while treated terribly are also underpaid.
physically harmful work harvesting cocoa
The monthly minimum wage for garment
undoubtedly first-world privilege. In substi-
daily. Ivory Coast and Ghana together
workers in Bangladesh is $68, compared
tute for meat and dairy, people can easily
produce 60% of the words cocoa. In 2015
with about $280 on the mainland in China.
find foods made from soy, cashews, and
alone, Ivory coast exported nearly 1.8
Despite these well known facts China is still
many other protein sources. Cashews are
million metric tons of cocoa, two-fifths of
the world’s biggest clothes exporter.
a big substitute in vegan foods, especially
the global production. Young children are
vegan sweets. Generally used to replace
being denied the right of an education so
tating structural failures in Bangladesh
butter or cream, softened cashews seem
that they can help farm cocoa and keep up
took place. In Dhaka District, the Rana
like a great replacement. What many
with first world countries desire for a sweet
Plaza, an eight story building owned by
people do not realize is that cashews are
treat.
Sohel Rana, collapsed and killed around
Having the choice to be vegan is an
often produced by underpaid, mistreated
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While the food industry has its hand’s
On April 23, 2013, one of the most devas-
1,135. Approximately 2,500 were pulled from
the building, alive but severely injured. The
by Dana Thomas talks about a assem-
building, while containing clothing facto-
bly plant in Thailand. The quote reads, “‘I
ries, was also inhabited by a bank, several
remember walking into an assembly plant in
shops, and apartments. Early on cracks
Thailand a couple of years ago and seeing
started to appear in the building and the
six or seven little children, all under 10
bank and shops closed immediately, but
years old, sitting on the floor assembling
the owners ignored the warnings. The day
counterfeit leather handbags,’ an investi-
before the collapse, more cracks appeared
gator told me... ‘The owners had broken the
but the garment workers were ordered
children’s legs and tied the lower leg to the
to return to work anyways. The building
thigh so the bones wouldn’t mend. [They]
collapsed at around 08:57 a.m. the next
did it because the children said they wanted
day. The building had already had three
to go outside and play.” Buying a counter-
more floors than was permitted on the original permit and was not in great condition. This tragedy resulted in The Walt Disney Co.’s decision to end its apparel production
“ ITS VERY HARD IN THIS DAY AND AGE TO BE COMPLETELY CRUELTY FREE AND VEGAN.”
in Bangladesh, but many companies, like Walmart for instance, still gets the majority
feit bag, pleather or not, is supporting this
of their clothes from sweatshops oversea,
industry that is in no way humane.
much like the ones in the Rana Plaza. Some vegans may attempt to buy knock
Its very hard in this day and age to be completely cruelty free and vegan. Being
off handbags, specifically pleather ones,
vegan is easier if these human rights viola-
so as not to support the use of leather.
tions are overlooked. People are pushing
This seems great, until it is revealed that
for the fair treatments of animals, but in
the counterfeit handbag industry is a Multi-
that process the treatments of their fellow
billion-dollar global business that works
humans are being ignored. As a growing
mostly in slave, specifically child, labor.
cruelty free society that loves the idea of
Children are packed into small factories
veganism, these basic human rights should
with old and rusty sewing machine and
not be forgotten.
forced to work. A passage from the book Deluxe: How Luxury Lost Its Luster, written
FA L L 2 017
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natural selection PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER CULLUM STYLING BY DANIELA GARZA HAIR & MAKEUP BY DANIELLE DUVIDZON AND JAZMIN THOMAS ASSISTED BY ALI MARCONI AND SABINE SMITH MODELED BY ADDIE JONAS, ARMINE BAJRAMI, AND CILENE GUIADEEN (AMERICANA MODELS) PRODUCED BY HANNAH KEIFFERT AND HEATHER CULLUM SPECIAL THANKS TO NOAH FELDMAN
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JACKET & TURTLENECK BY FOREVER 21 SHORTS BY URBAN OUTFITTERS BOOTS BY H&M DIVIDED
JACKET & PANTS BY ZARA SHOES BY WESTIES
(OPPOSITE) JACKET BY KAREN KANE TURTLENECK BY FOREVER 21 SILK TOP BY JON QUILT BY DIANE SAMANDI
TOP BY M SIAMO PANTS BY JONES NEW YORK SHOES BY BIMBA & LOLA
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HAT & SHOES BY FREE PEOPLE TURTLENECK BY BRANDY MELVILLE JACKET BY NEW YORK & COMPANY PANTS BY ANN TAYLOR LOFT
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LEFT COAT BY FREE PEOPLE DRESS & TURTLENECK BY FOREVER 21 SHOES BY FARYLROBIN CENTER TOP BY FREE PEOPLE PANTS BY GEORGES RECH PARIS SHOES BY ZARA BAG BY WHITING & DAVIS RIGHT HAT BY FREE PEOPLE TURTLENECK BY BRANDY MELVILLE VEST BY HALSTON PETITES PANTS BY DARLING BAG BY TONO OF MADRID SHOES BY ZARA
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