Leandra Medine's Blog, page 14
July 15, 2020
Bet You’re Wondering How to Make Foam Furniture
When I first saw a fluffy yet sculptural piece of heaven on my Instagram Explore page, I genuinely gasped. I’m always a fan of something a little strange and off-kilter, and foam furniture checked both of those boxes. The more I engaged with these photos, the more foam furniture and foam mirrors populated my feed. To me, they looked like what would happen if Dr. Seuss met modern day Instagram and made a baby IRL. I took particular interest in the foam pieces painted in pastel colors: the material seemed to have its own personality, one I wanted to inhabit. In a 2020 state of mind, I began to entertain the idea of morphing into a piece of foam-covered furniture myself.
View this post on Instagram
One of our Foam mirrors with a perfect set up
A post shared by Foam Furniture (@foamfurniture_aus) on Jun 26, 2020 at 12:43am PDT
Because I jump at any opportunity to avoid buying something new and spending a lot of money, I immediately decided that I was going to make my own foam beauty. Taking matters into my own hands, I decided to wing it and do everything myself. My first stop? The thrift store, where I’d upcycle the crap out of whatever item I found there that beckoned to be covered in foam. Keep scrolling for the DIY how-to from a first-time foamer.
View this post on Instagram
July 14, 2020
A Definitive List of the 12 Best Pairs of Underwear
Of all the things we put on our body to make an outfit, an often unseen garment plays one of the most significant roles in that outfit’s success. In my opinion, the more low-maintenance a pair of underwear is, the better. Comfort, rise, and the polarizing issue of panty lines all play a major role in a pair of underwear’s ascension to the hall of fame (more points if said underwear is breathable, with easy care instructions). Below, I’ve rounded up the pairs that score big points in my underwear drawer:
1. If You Are Very Active…
Girlfriend Collective Mid-Rise Brief
Leave it to activewear brand Girlfriend to make the perfect pair of underwear for running around, and with a fabric blend made of 80% recycled plastic bottles to boot. (This underwear is also quite good for more dormant moments.) After wearing them a full day—whether embarking on errands or working out—this underwear doesn’t ride up. Honestly, its existence is hardly noticeable. Which is really the goal here. Five out of five stars.
See All 1
2. If You’re Looking for a Sustainably-Minded, High-Rise French Cut…
Knickey High-Rise Brief
A review of these Knickey briefs in seventeen words flat? A soft and comfortable pair of breathable cotton underwear that isn’t too thick and gives zero wedgies. Elaborate on that, you say? This high-rise stays in place throughout the entire day without riding down or bunching, and the soft elastic prevents chafing and discomfort. Plus, they come in a range of extremely fun colors like “butterscotch” and “bon bon.”
See All 4
3. If You Want the Comfiest Pair for the Best Price…
Gap Stretch Cotton High Leg Brief
Very similar to the aforementioned Knickeys, this low-drama cotton pair is discreet and doesn’t cause wedgies—plus it won’t wear out after many, many cycles through the laundry. For $10 (and sometimes less!), this is a great option and a Team MR favorite.
See All 4
4. If You’re Looking for a Pair That Feels Like if Silk and Cotton Had a Baby…
Proclaim Mid-Rise Brief
Proclaim, an inclusive nude lingerie line, makes their products in Los Angeles with earth-conscious fabrics. With 92% Tencel and 8% spandex, this extremely soft pair of underwear comes in sizes S-3X and four shades.
See All 4
5. If You Want a Colorful Pair With a Long Lifespan…
Entireworld Organic Cotton Bikini Brief
If you’re like me, and of the school advocating for something thick to act as a barrier between you and your jeans, I recommend these (take your pick from the 14 different colors!). Other members of Team MR consider this their go-to pair for sleeping, as this 100% cotton bikini brief is completely breathable. One editor noted that these can run a smidge small, and they’ll shrink a little in the dryer. (Entireworld recommends air-drying rather than a tumble.)
See All 4
6. If You Want to Buy in Bulk…
Marks & Spencer Pure Cotton Full Briefs
M&S makes a wide range of underwear—from boyshorts to briefs to thongs—but my favorite are the high-rise full briefs. Not too thick, these briefs are perfect to wear in hot weather. They come in a four-pack, so it’s a one-and-done underwear collection—strike that item off your to-do list!
See All 2
7. If You Need a Secure, High-Rise Pair for the Absolute Hottest Days…
Pact High Rise Hipster
Many friends and colleagues, who range from XS to XXL, urged me to try Pact, and it did not disappoint. Pact is Fair Trade-certified underwear made with organic cotton—it’s pre-washed, so you can count on this pair keeping its shape and fit after many wears. I love the high-rise hipster because I’m a high-rise kind of underwear gal.
See All 2
8. If You Want a Quality (and Seamless!) Pair Designed for People of Color…
Nubian Skin Classic Brief
Nubian Skin focuses on nude undergarments for people of color, and the ultimate crowd-pleaser is their Classic Brief, which comes in four shades: caramel, cinnamon, berry, and cafe au lait. Made of 62% polyamide and 38% elastane for full comfort and breathability, this is a seamless pair of underwear available in sizes XS through XXL.
See All 4
9. If You Want a Pair to Make You Feel Sexy and Satisfied…
Soma Cotton Blend With Lace High Leg Brief
For a truly barely-there pair of underwear, try the Soma. They show zero panty lines while somehow also having a lace trim, which makes them a little bit more sexy even while still technically qualifying as a brief. They are cotton-blend, so they’ll pass the breathability test after a full day of wearing.
See All 4
10. If You Want a Durable Pair That Doesn’t Slide Down (Ever)…
Organic Basics Organic Cotton Briefs
Made of 95% GOTS-certified organic cotton and 5% elastane, this pair is my favorite where security is concerned. With a thick waistband, this pair stays put, while the softness and high-cotton composition is so comfortable that they’re inconspicuous.
See All 2
11. If You Want a Pair Designed to Be Worn Under Denim…
Warp + Weft Bikini Brief and Bikini Brief Plus
For denim aficionados everywhere, Warp + Weft’s seamless underwear was made to be worn under jeans. They’re made of 95% modal (a jersey fabric) and 5% spandex and topped off with a 100% cotton lining, making them lightweight, durable and resistant to pilling. Invisible elastic! A size range of XS through 3XL! Six shades! What’s not to like?
See All 2
12. If You Just Want a Trusty Classic Pair That’s Lasted Generations…
Jockey Hipster
The OG of underwear, Jockey makes a great cotton hipster that comes in a three-pack. The hipster is full-rise and full coverage, boasting 100% cotton for complete breathability. This pair is the big bang-for-your-buck option.
See All 3
Homepage image via Girlfriend Collective. Header image via Proclaim.
The post A Definitive List of the 12 Best Pairs of Underwear appeared first on Man Repeller.
We’ve Reached Peak Tchotchke
A tchotchke is typically defined as “a small object that is decorative rather than strictly functional,” but in these decidedly atypical times they have taken on additional meaning. There is something special about bearing witness to other people’s something specials–the little things that punctuate a room like exclamation points, fancy or simple, artfully curated or haphazardly placed, new or nostalgic–small clues to the precious secret of how someone else lives.
I’ve been bookmarking tchotchke sightings over the last few months. Below are some of my favorites, organized by category into the ultimate tchotchke shopping guide, for your punctuating pleasure.
The Tchotchke So Nice You Don’t Want to Cover It Up With a Glass (Even If It’s Technically a Coaster)
View this post on Instagram
Last day posing with my tulips before they meet their sad demise
You Look Moist: Aurora James on DIY Lip Balm and the Ultimate Pimple Antidote
Welcome to You Look Moist, a column in which Man Repeller asks cool people with glowing visages how they achieved their supreme hydration (amongst other things). Today’s installment features Aurora James, the founder of Brother Vellies and 15 Percent Pledge.
How would you describe your skin?
My skin and I have had a volatile but passionate relationship for as long as I can remember. I spent much of my earlier years largely ignoring it–only to be faced with a backlash in my twenties, which led to a string of overcorrections. For the past five or so years, we have not only been at peace but in a very committed and healthy relationship. I think part of this shift was acknowledging that the conditions I provide for my skin change, and as such I need to adapt what I give it. Traveling so frequently in the past made for a lot of dry moments in my otherwise pretty stable moisture balance. I tend to get breakouts right before my period as well.
How would you describe your skincare approach in general?
I feel like it’s high maintenance, but then I read other people’s routines and realize it’s super low. I went through a stage last year where I wanted to strip back as much as possible. My mom has great skin and does almost nothing to it, so I wanted to join her squad. During quarantine I think I’ve been more aware of my skin in its natural state–essentially uninterrupted. I haven’t been wearing makeup most days, which is a big deal. I’m drinking a minimal amount, maybe one or two mezcals a week, and obviously travel is out of the equation. Without those variables, my skin has really been thriving. I keep fantasizing about doing a mask, but that still hasn’t happened.
View this post on Instagram
July 13, 2020
7 Days of Summer Outfits (Or, A Week of My Black Girl Joy)
Black creators don’t always get the recognition we deserve, and if we do, it often feels like it’s only to rehash our traumas. It is vital that we not only amplify Black stories, but that we amplify many kinds of Black stories, including those that center on our joy.
My joy. The joy of my beautiful Black friends who light up any room they enter. The joy of Black designers who deserve just as much attention as their non-Black counterparts.
I’ll be honest: I’ve read some of the criticism of Man Repeller over the last month. It’s obvious to me that the community of readers cares deeply about equality and injustice, and the importance of highlighting new stories and perspectives. That’s why I wanted to share a slice of what Black joy means to me here, with a week’s worth of summer style inspiration featuring all Black designers and produced with a team of Black women. Below, my visual diary of things I’m doing, wearing, and loving right now.
Sunday
Sundays are my favorite time to dive into a good book, because it’s pretty much the only day of the week that I get to relax solo without work responsibilities creeping up. I recently joined two book clubs, which have introduced me to books I might not have discovered otherwise. I’m currently reading The Heart of a Woman by Dr. Maya Angelou. I am in awe of how she changed the world with her words, and ignited the hearts of Black women everywhere with her poetry.
I collaborated with stylist Kia Davidson for this editorial, and given the current constraints on travel, we wanted to tell a visual story of what it looks like to use clothes as a vehicle for escape. Andrea Iyamah’s designs were the ideal inspiration–we gravitated toward this monochrome orange look because it exudes joy, sunshine, and tropical vibes. (I’m a Caribbean woman, so I love anything tropical-looking.)
Monday
I usually get all my grocery shopping done on Mondays, because the stores aren’t as packed and the produce is fresh. When planning this shoot, I knew I wanted to do a look with rollers in my hair. Running errands with rollers in is a style statement for so many Black women. Of course, usually it’s paired with a stained shirt and sweatpants, but Kia masterfully executed a hyper-stylized version of that. In her words, “rich auntie vibes!”
The photographer, Camille, and I both wore masks to head to the grocery store, and I briefly took off my mask while we were shooting in a secluded area. Doing a photoshoot in a public area right now was not without its challenges, but it was important to me and the team I was collaborating with to be mindful of safety protocols currently in place.
Tuesday
I recently moved into my first solo apartment, which is a big deal for me. I love the experience of living alone, but obviously the last few months have felt more isolating than usual due to the pandemic. Sometimes, if I’m bored or lonely, I’ll turn to my closet for distraction. I love to dress up, even if it’s just to sit on my couch. This turquoise dress is the ideal fancy-for-no-reason outfit base, especially when accented with a few pieces of simple gold jewelry.
Wednesday
I’ve been cooking at home for about four months straight without ordering any takeout, but now that we are in Phase 2, I’ve started ordering once a week from my favorite place–Grandchamps. It’s a Haitian restaurant and serves delicious, authentic food from the islands. As a first-generation Haitian-American, I have fond memories of waking up to the smell of amazing Haitian cuisine during my childhood. Now that I live alone, I either cook it myself or head over to Grandchamps for diri kole, a.k.a. black rice and beans.
Kia and I wanted my outfit to capture the spirit of Haiti, so we included not only a Haitian designer, but also elements like a fan and headscarf that are often worn by women in the islands.
Thursday
Other than the shower, my bedroom is where I do all my deep thinking. It’s also a safe haven for some of my most treasured belongings, like my favorite candle from Alexandra Winbush and an amazing painting by Haitian-American artist, Madjeen Isaac (if you are in need of art and want to support more Black artists, she’s your girl!).
Kia and I wanted to showcase a comfortable but fashionable “home” look as inspiration for days when you still want your outfit to say something intentional even if you’re not seeing anyone. This glorified hoodie dress was just the thing–I also like this less expensive option with a similar silhouette.
Friday
Typically, my favorite summer Friday activity is hanging out with friends while sunbathing, eating fresh fruit, catching up and listening to Beyoncé. But since this summer is far from typical, my friends and I all took precautions to make sure we were tested before gathering, and wore masks prior to and after taking these photos. There is a special kind of energy I get from being surrounded by a group of inspiring women, and I was grateful for the opportunity to tap into it after months of spending time mostly alone.
The styling in this shot is an ode to two of favorite Black-owned swimwear brands, Castamira and Riot Swim. I love how we used all one-piece swimsuits, but each of them is so unique–just like each of us.
Saturday
My personal version of summer joy would be incomplete without a Brooklyn stoop celebration, surrounded by some of my favorite Black creatives. The support of other Black female creators is the foundation of how I stay inspired and uplifted in an industry that is not set up for me to win. I appreciate each of these women for who they are, and I respect them for refusing to fit themselves into boxes in order to find success. We each stand beautifully on our own, but together we are truly Black girl magic.
I hope you enjoyed this little bit of joy to keep in your back pocket. An amazing crew of artists helped me put my visual diary together–I encourage you to give them all a follow below–not because it’s trendy to follow BIPOC on social media right now, but because their stories and their joy have always been worthy of taking up space.
10 PHOTOS
click for more
Producer, Writer, and Talent: Micaéla Verrelien
Creative Director: Alexandra Berrocal
Photographer: Camille Shaw
Stylist: Kia Davidson
Makeup Artist: Latisha Rankin
Hair Stylist: Nie Alston
Nail Artist: Kia Stewart
The post 7 Days of Summer Outfits (Or, A Week of My Black Girl Joy) appeared first on Man Repeller.
The Rise and Fall of the “Busyboy”: Were We Ever So Young?
On the evening of March 5th, as I crossed Houston Street alone en route to a gathering where I’d know next to nobody, I had zero idea that a new term was about to enter my lexicon. That night, I made my last new friend before a world-altering virus sunk its teeth into New York, and it was on this most auspicious occasion that she told me about… the busyboy.
Lea Carey, a talented illustrator and painter, coined the term “busyboy” with her friends not long ago. The descriptor refers to a romantic prospect who responds to your inquiry about making plans with a vague yet helpless reply, something along the lines of: “I’d love to, but I’m so busy right now.”
View this post on Instagram
Forget the dinner dates!! It’s the one year anniversary of busy man today
Forget “Floor Is Lava,” Watch “Supermarket Sweep” Instead
Streaming services have been the drink of choice in quarantine, and—as we all know—our cups runneth over. During the past four months, I’ve watched four seasons of The O.C., re-watched Euphoria, and, most recently, dove headfirst into The L-Word (seeing as I’m finally feeling my girl-loving oats).
Recently, though, as I’ve absorbed the fictional drama of ’00s West Hollywood gay girls, I’ve been feeling like my television quotient has been a little… off. The missing flavor: absurdity, earnestness, schadenfreude. Indeed: a game show. I needed a game show.
I gave “Floor Is Lava” a shot first. As a surprise hit that’s been on Netflix’s “Top 10” since it premiered a few weeks ago—and subsequently the butt of some pretty good Twitter jokes—I figured it could be just what I needed.
Wrong. It felt like a bad blend of “American Ninja Warrior” and “Legends of the Hidden Temple.” I could only watch for so long, as beefy triplets wearing matching American flag tanks catapulted themselves across Easter Island replicas poking out of bubbling, glowing red “lava” (which apparently required cycling through 50 different formulas to perfect).
Goddammit why am I watching the FLOOR IS LAVA
— Gail Simone (@GailSimone) July 9, 2020
My salvation came a few days later:
I don't know who needs to hear this but 15 episodes of the iconic Supermarket Sweep are now on Netflix in The US pic.twitter.com/qrHKW56Zta
— Netflix (@netflix) July 6, 2020
Almost a year ago, during a particularly nasty flu, I watched almost 20 episodes of Guy’s Grocery Games during a 24-hour fever dream. Yes, Netflix, it was me who needed to hear this. Thank you.
All I knew about Supermarket Sweep was that it was a nutso game show from the early ’90s that sent people scrambling around supermarkets like it was their last day on earth. I’d watched YouTube compilation videos and SNL spoofs, but nothing—nothing—could compare to the real deal.
So, I made a package of Banza mac and cheese and watched four episodes in a row—and in a stupor. Women with hair feathered to the gods ran around looking for Corn Pops. I watched one contestant pronounce the word “rigatoni” as “rigatooni” with the absolute confidence of a to-be actress. I watched unhinged, grown adults rocket themselves around the store, throwing whatever they could find into grocery carts: whole Butterball turkeys, bottles of baby formula, mayo containers the size of torsos. The show is schmaltzy, white-washed, hyper-capitalist, ’90s America on steroids, and to watch it is to experience the real-life manifestation of the 
Forget “The Floor Is Lava,” Watch “Supermarket Sweep” Instead
Streaming services have been the drink of choice in quarantine, and—as we all know—our cups runneth over. During the past four months, I’ve watched four seasons of The O.C., re-watched Euphoria, and, most recently, dove headfirst into The L-Word (seeing as I’m finally feeling my girl-loving oats).
Recently, though, as I’ve absorbed the fictional drama of ’00s West Hollywood gay girls, I’ve been feeling like my television quotient has been a little… off. The missing flavor: absurdity, earnestness, schadenfreude. Indeed: a game show. I needed a game show.
I gave “The Floor Is Lava” a shot first. As a surprise hit that’s been on Netflix’s “Top 10” since it premiered a few weeks ago—and subsequently the butt of some pretty good Twitter jokes—I figured it could be just what I needed.
Wrong. It felt like a bad blend of “American Ninja Warrior” and “Legends of the Hidden Temple.” I could only watch for so long, as beefy triplets wearing matching American flag tanks catapulted themselves across Easter Island replicas poking out of bubbling, glowing red “lava” (which apparently required cycling through 50 different formulas to perfect).
Goddammit why am I watching the FLOOR IS LAVA
— Gail Simone (@GailSimone) July 9, 2020
My salvation came a few days later:
I don't know who needs to hear this but 15 episodes of the iconic Supermarket Sweep are now on Netflix in The US pic.twitter.com/qrHKW56Zta
— Netflix (@netflix) July 6, 2020
Almost a year ago, during a particularly nasty flu, I watched almost 20 episodes of Guy’s Grocery Games during a 24-hour fever dream. Yes, Netflix, it was me who needed to hear this. Thank you.
All I knew about Supermarket Sweep was that it was a nutso game show from the early ’90s that sent people scrambling around supermarkets like it was their last day on earth. I’d watched YouTube compilation videos and SNL spoofs, but nothing—nothing—could compare to the real deal.
So, I made a package of Banza mac and cheese and watched four episodes in a row—and in a stupor. Women with hair feathered to the gods ran around looking for Corn Pops. I watched one contestant pronounce the word “rigatoni” as “rigatooni” with the absolute confidence of a to-be actress. I watched unhinged, grown adults rocket themselves around the store, throwing whatever they could find into grocery carts: whole Butterball turkeys, bottles of baby formula, mayo containers the size of torsos. The show is schmaltzy, white-washed, hyper-capitalist, ’90s America on steroids, and to watch it is to experience the real-life manifestation of the
July 11, 2020
I Heard It on MR Thoughtline: “Where Can I Find a Cloth Mask With Flair?”
Have you signed up for MR Thoughtline yet? It’s Man Repeller’s new text-based service that lights up phone screens with good bits from around the internet, opportunities to chat with cool people, and digital recesses to help your mind take a break from the news in favor of a recipe, physical activity or, trust us, very useful WFH outfit ideas. Subscribe here.
The necessity of wearing a mask when going outside has become part of our cultural reality—and thus, by default, it has become part of our sartorial reality, too. The best masks for civilians are those made from cloth (leave surgical masks and N95s to healthcare professionals and essential workers). And while the functional significance of any protective mask makes it much more than an object of style, there’s still room—and desire, we’ve found—to inject some personality into the equation. This was made clear during a recent conversation on MR Thoughtline, during which a subscriber asked: “Where can I find an effective cloth mask with flair?”
According to the CDC, an effective face mask fits snugly but comfortably against the sides of your face, can be secured with ties or ear loops, includes multiple layers of fabric, allows for breathing without restriction, and can be laundered and machine dried without damaging or changing the shape. (Check out their website for tutorials on how to DIY a mask that conforms with these guidelines—they offer instructions for using a sewing machine, a T-shirt, or a bandana.) If you’d like to purchase a mask from a brand that is donating to charity–or from an independent Etsy seller making and shipping masks directly–see below for a rundown of efforts that give back, and scroll to the bottom for a curated, flair-centric shopping edit, courtesy of our market strategist Elizabeth.
Man Repeller will be donating any affiliate revenue generated from this story to MasksOn.org, a non-profit working to mass-produce reusable, sanitizable Emergency Use face shields for clinicians who do not have access to FDA-cleared equipment through June.
Charitable Efforts
Abacaxi – This month, Abacaxi is donating 10% of all proceeds towards organizations supporting Black trans futures: the LGBTQ Freedom Fund, G.L.I.T.S., The Okra Project, and Meta Center.
Araks – 20% of proceeds from all mask sales will be donated to GetUsPPE, a non-profit grassroots coalition mobilized to address the PPE shortage worldwide.
Baggu – For every pack of masks sold, they’re donating a pack of surgical masks to healthcare workers.
Batsheva – 25% of proceeds go to Black Lives Matter.
Camp Collection – Donating money to a new organization monthly, beginning with National Bail Out.
Christine Alcalay – Continuing to donate to HCP and have added to their initiative to help organizations making a difference.
Clare V. – Donating non-medical grade masks to frontline and essential workers.
Collina Strada – With the purchase of one face covering you will providing three to Seeding Sovereignty.
DIOP – A portion of the proceeds from the sale of DIOP Masks will be donated to Feed the Frontlines in Detroit.
Grayson – Goal to raise $25,000 to go directly to One Fair Wage’s cash assistance program, plus donating reusable masks to the Los Angeles Downtown Women’s Center.
Joanna Vanderpuije – Priced at cost with an additional 25% markup added, which will all be donated to Black Lives Matter (UK).
LAMade – Over 22,000 masks donated.
LoveShackFancy – A percent of proceeds will be donated to support front line workers.
Misa – Partnered with L.A. Protects to produce non-medical grade masks for essential businesses and in limited quantities to the general public.
Re/Done – For every mask sold, five will be donated to front line heroes with the help of Donate PPE.
Rowing Blazers – Donating one mask to the NYC Food Bank for every mask sold.
Sanctuary – Sanctuary has produced over five million medical grade masks to support the medical community.
Steele Canvas x Food52 – For every mask sold, Steele Canvas and Food52 will donate a second mask to medical facilities across the U.S.—or you can choose to buy two masks and together, and they’ll donate both.
String King – Donating both two-ply washable cloth face masks and three-ply, disposable face masks for free and at reduced cost.
Susan Alexandra – Donating 15% of sales to G.L.I.T.S.
One for One: Brands Donating 1 Mask for Each Mask Ordered
Jibri
Lykke Wullf
Hyer Goods
Casetify
J. Papa
Reformation
And now, masks arranged lovingly, by style…
Perfectly Patterned
With elastic backs…
Abacaxi
Phlemuns
Grayson
Nisolo
Re/Done
Safe Styles
Jibri
DEMESTIK
Christine Alcalay
Diarrablu
Sew Cute She Sparkle
Vicki of Vienna
VIVIT Handmade
Serendipity Des Studio
IndigoStyle Vintage
Re/Done
Pearian Bespoke
Social Masks
Subrina Heyink Vintage 
Find Your Mask
Lykke Wullf
AfriWare Books
Rowing Blazers
LAMadeSee All 24
With adjustable ties…
Collina Strada
Araks
Clare V.
LoveShackFancy
Sweet Gia Boutique
Hyer Goods
Misa
Joanna Vanderpuije
Susan Alexandra
Batsheva
Studio One Eighty Nine
DIOP
Lele SadoughiSee All 13
Solidly Satisfying
With elastic backs…
Crystal Rose Label
Nia Thomas
Castify
Tailored By Narine
Mini and Company
Los Angeles Apparel
String King
J. Papa
LAMade
Sanctuary
ShashiSee All 11
With adjustable ties…
Baggu
Reformation
Steele Canvas x Food52
Vida
RedStitchQuilts
Camp Collection
SuSuDesignStudio
LittleQTUTUSSee All 8
If you know of any other brands or designers who are rising to the occasion by making or donating masks to those in need, please feel free to shout them out in the comments—we’d love to hear about it.
Feature Photos via Phlemuns.
The post I Heard It on MR Thoughtline: “Where Can I Find a Cloth Mask With Flair?” appeared first on Man Repeller.
July 10, 2020
One School Year Later: NYC Teens on Their “Last Day” Outfits—And Graduating During a Revolution
In September, we published a story in which a handful of (very cool, it must be said again) New York City high school students explained their first day of school outfits—and all the excitement and anxieties that were woven into them. Then, around the end of the school year and the beginning of the pandemic, we made plans with teen photographer Olivia Wein to re-photograph everyone in their *last* day of school outfits. She began setting up remote photo sessions with each of her friends, but soon after, George Floyd was murdered, which was followed by massive protests and demonstrations across the country, and Olivia and her friends were the first to say that the focus of the story needed to shift. So we asked them: What do you want to do now? Over an email thread and video chat, they landed on this—a story about how the past school year measured up to their expectations, how they felt when the pandemic threw their plans into disarray, and, inspired by the social justice movement that has taken hold in recent weeks, their thoughts on the kind of world they hope is beginning to take shape.
Juliet (Rising Junior)
On the end of the year: For my last day of school, I chose to wear a fitted crop top and a pair of dark-wash Lucky Brand jeans. This not only showed how sunburned I had gotten, but how little I care about a dress code. The necklaces I’m wearing are all from my mom, Gina. I sneak into her room and steal things she keeps hidden away from when she was my age. To accentuate the dress, I chose to put on a pair of brown boots. I may look a little like a cowgirl, but the boots help to keep my height a secret.
This year has not been the best. I think that’s a common feeling across the world. In saying that, I also recognize that quarantine has taught many people, myself included, to appreciate what’s around you. As much as I was wishing for school to be over, I miss the simple tasks throughout my day. I especially miss the train ride to class, the coffee stand outside my school, and the tedious bells that sang throughout the hallways.
On the future: The kind of world I want to graduate into is one that has changed drastically from our current reality. In my role to better the world as an individual, I’ll make constant efforts to take advantage of my privilege. Our generation is full of some of the greatest, most passionate, and hardworking people and it’s not the time to be quiet. Since I’ve been given this platform to speak, I’d like to take this opportunity to support Black-owned businesses. Here is a list of 19 great Black-owned businesses in NYC:
Buy Better Foods (Brooklyn)
The Bergen (Brooklyn)
BK9 (Brooklyn)
BCakeNY (Brooklyn)
Mikey likes it East Village (Manhattan)
Brooklyn Chop House (Brooklyn)
Field trip (Manhattan)
Melba’s (Manhattan)
Uptown Poke (Manhattan)
Ital Kitchen (Brooklyn)
Snowdonia (Queens)
Kings Juice Bar (Queens)
Breezes Island Grill (Queens)
Frank’s Soup Bowl (The Bronx)
Juices for Life (The Bronx)
Balimaya (The Bronx)
Lloyd’s Carrot Cake (The Bronx)
SI Fish & More (Staten Island)
Koten’s Restaurant (Staten Island)
Noah (Graduating Senior)
On the end of the year: Pre-pandemic I was doing really well mentally, school was slowing down, and I just had my first photography show. Then absolute isolation. As someone who is very social, it was super hard for me to learn how to sit with myself. Doing online school didn’t feel real. Before we “graduated,” Olivia asked me if I wanted to participate in this story and I was over the moon. The pandemic really took a toll on my mental health, but overall I think it allowed for a lot of introspection and growth. I took an Instagram break WHICH I HIGHLY RECOMMEND and through that began to create art for me again. It’s so important to do that, and made me feel much better about my work and myself.
I wore a netted top under my graduation gown. I never got a chance to actually wear it to a graduation ceremony, but it was fun to add my own flare and personality to my graduation look. For a long time, I was very insecure with my body and myself. I think if you told me two or three years ago that I’d wear stuff like netted tank tops, I wouldn’t believe you. For me, this is an act of rebellion against my former self. I felt so confident and iconic.
On the future: After viewing the horrific murder of George Floyd and how the world reacted, I truly believe it was a wake-up call (the thousandth one at that). The day after, I was in the park with my friends and some of the first protestors walked by and screamed, “Join us!” After that, I went to protests, sit-ins, and vigils almost every day. I’m a photographer and I knew I had to document it. I’ve been trying to actively re-share BLM content every day on Instagram. I think it’s so important to keep it up. It not only forces the people who follow you to see facts, information, and guidance, but it also shows your Black peers, friends, family, loved ones, and even mutuals that you are actively standing by them. Overall, it’s important to shine a light on queer BIPOC, and in the future, I plan on making more work surrounding the Black LGBTQIA+ community. The world is changing. I know it is. People are waking up. I am waking up. I am so glad I went to those protests and I highly suggest anyone who is interested and able to attend one.
Maya (Rising Senior)
On the end of the year: A lot changed for me this year… a lot a lot. I feel that I’m an entirely different person than I was at the beginning of the year, for a lot of different reasons. For starters, I dress a little differently, or at least think about the way I dress differently. Quarantine has also been a big change. My social meter has just completely flipped to adapt to the new environment. It’s weird and I’m still adjusting to spending way more time with just myself than I’d like, to be honest. Thinking too much.
I’m wearing two hand-me-downs from my grandma, the red sweater and the skirt (which is actually a dress with the top folded inward!), and my shirt is from Olivia’s zine, Loserzine! I chose the three items because they’re currently my favorite things to wear, both separately and together. I love the bright red of the big cozy sweater on top of the calm white of the breezy relaxed shirt and skirt. The skirt/dress was really great for the June weather, plus it really brings me into the “out in the country” vibes of quarantining in Sullivan County, NY. I wish I had a blouse with poofy sleeves tho, prairie style ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
On the future: I don’t think it’s my place to dictate what the end result of the protests should be, but there are definitely values I believe in that I would love to be instituted. At the same time, I understand that I’m not the masthead of the movement or any sort of decision-maker for Black voices. I think my role in creating a better world is to stand behind and support Black voices (both in the movement and always), and to actively support and advocate for causes I believe in. I think pretty much every non-Black person can afford to learn more too.
Jack (Rising Sophomore)
On the end of the year: From the beginning, I felt that this year was going to be about change. I started out shy, but as I met new people, specifically ones who had interests similar to my own, I felt my self-confidence increase. Of course, just as I started to feel comfortable, school got shut down and we were forced into a situation that none of us ever saw coming. Being a part of this ‘new world’ has allowed me to explore those interests in a super in-depth fashion. When I was around people who were interested in the same things I was, I felt as though I was constantly in a rush to be on their level, but during this time alone I’ve been able to move at my own speed. I think this year really brought things into perspective: at the beginning, I thought the worst things that would happen would be my mom moving out of the city and my sister leaving for college, but when everything began to change, I started to feel that those worries were privileges. Because we’re not yet out of this ‘era,’ I’m not quite sure how to summarize what I have learned (haha), but I do know that I am changing, and the world is changing, and I think both will be for the better.
Jack with his sister (and the photographer of this story), Olivia.For my last-day outfit, I thought I would go with the simple collared shirt—something a little bit more formal, because graduation feels more formal than the first day of school would be (where your goal is just to meet some cool people). To get my collared shirt, I turned to my dad’s wardrobe. After finding the shirt I liked, I showed my sister, Olivia, and she immediately seemed excited and pulled a blue sharp-collared jacket out from her closet to go with it. I started out opposed to the idea because it didn’t quite fit, but through her enthusiasm I found myself liking the combination more and more. I looked like someone straight out of the 70s.
On the future: I think my role, and specifically the role of my generation, is to address and abolish the prejudices that have been passed down from generations before us. It’s our job to fix what has not been working. It’s been so inspirational to see people my age protesting and using their voices. Their action motivates more people to join them, as well as educates people, especially those of us who’ve grown up with so much privilege, and I think that is really important. I want all of our voices to be heard without being met by violence and hate. A world where learning, unlearning, and fighting back against oppression is a part of everything we do.
Shandra (Graduating Senior)
On the end of the year: Usually, I’m over the top with my outfits. I like when what I’m wearing shows my creativity and expresses how I’m feeling that day. You would think that on my graduation—which I’ve been waiting for for 13 years—I would wear something over-the-top-times-10, but this moment actually came with sadness and overwhelming disappointment. Because of the stress of the world failing me and all other marginalized groups of people, accompanied with the immense outrage and grieving coming from an entire world, I really didn’t even want to attend. The lack of progress in the world is starting to make me question my own progress and achievements. I came to the realization that my graduation wasn’t a celebration of anything. So my outfit reflected my lack of care and motivation.
This year I discovered a person within myself that I’m proud to be. In a lot of ways, I felt like I hadn’t done enough in terms of tangible goals and progression with money, but in the end I realized that this past school year has been one of my happiest. I’ve grown so much as a person. I’ve gotten more in tune with who I am and who I want to be. I’ve worked on my flaws. I’ve worked on my physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health.
On the future: I want to graduate into a world led with love and care, where cops enforce humanity, where I am free. I want to graduate into a world where I don’t have to prove my worth or fight for it to be recognized in both society and law—a world where I am included, rather than marginalized. I want to graduate into a world where my skin doesn’t define me. I want to graduate into a world I am happy to be a part of.
Ellison (Graduating Senior)
On the end of the year: My life changed quite drastically this year and I feel like I’ve grown a lot. I definitely thought this was going to be my year, like REALLY thought. In some ways, it was: I got into ESMOD, which is a fashion design school in Paris. It’s also where one of my favorite designers went (which I wore in the first article)… JACQUEMUS. AND my best friend is coming to Paris with me! It’s really a dream come true and the best “light at the end of tunnel” that I could’ve asked for. But this year also held some really deep lows that forced me to learn about myself in ways I never thought I would. Between friendship issues, mom issues, and school BS, it was a lot. Then Corona hit and everything became so uncertain, and the stupidity of world leaders became extremely apparent.
I’m not wearing my cap and gown in protest of my school’s overwhelming neglect for sexual assault and other discriminatory claims. School authorities have ignored multitudes of hate (for more information check out @youarethesun). My school was a toxic environment that excused homophobia, sexual assault, and blatant racism, always protecting the oppressor in the situation. No one was held accountable.
So, for my last-day outfit, I’m wearing a thrifted Lanvin suit jacket, IRIS sheer striped top, Macintosh 007 black pants, Los Altos cowboy boots, a yellow Dior saddle bag, Alaïn Mikli sunglasses, and my four rings. The pieces I chose are some of my favorite items that I have held close throughout my life. By wearing them, I felt as if I was honoring the work I put into school and abandoning all the grief I associate with that era. Closure has been hard to reach, especially without a graduation. I’ve been through seven schools since elementary school, forced out simply because I had two moms or because I am gay. The whole school journey was not fun, but I am done! Done! It feels crazy to say, or write!
On the future: I want to graduate into a world that recognizes the privileges afforded to some and uses it to lift up those who are oppressed. I want to live in a world that listens to each of its citizens and helps just because it’s the right thing to do. Sadly, it doesn’t seem like this could be reality for a while, but people continue to fight for it and that gives me hope. It’s going to be a lot of work to change the deeply rooted prejudice that governs society. Going into the fashion field, I’d like to reform some major issues in the industry. Fashion is one of the biggest sources of pollution, it has deeply ingrained practices of cultural appropriation, a long history of lacking in representation and diversity of minority groups, along with mistreatment and abuse of factory workers. I feel like we keep seeing designers make the same mistakes without truly making any change.
Nico (Rising Senior)
On the end of the year: I wore below-the-knee black leather boots with white knee-high socks, a white miniskirt, a jean jacket, and a baseball cap. Everything was thrifted—which is definitely reflective of the kind of world I’d like to graduate into. I think sustainability should be prioritized. The hat I wore felt particularly right for this occasion, because it not only has sentimental value (I’ve had it a long time) but because it lets me bring that sentiment with me, as I move into my senior year of high school.
I don’t think I’d be the only one to say a lot changed this year, and definitely more than I expected. Pre-pandemic I felt really driven to work toward the goals I had set for myself. I felt a lot of growth since my previous year, however, COVID-19 threw a huge curveball and for a while I found all the changes really hard to navigate. I’m relieved I was able to stick with it and end the school year on good terms.
On the future: Although I’m only going into my senior year, I’d like to graduate into a world much different than our world now. Ideally, I’d like to start with equal rights for POC, as well as a President who won’t drive the nation into the ground. There are countless issues with the world today—police brutality and the marginalization of POC, as well as poverty and unemployment due to the pandemic, the education system, disproportionate funding, climate change, and the current state of the earth. Although some of these issues are now being addressed, it doesn’t mean they’re anywhere close to being solved. People, especially people in power, and leaders of this country, need to start taking serious accountability. Change will be created, one way or another.
Indigo (Rising Senior)
On the end of the year: When we did the “first day” shoot I had just decided to move to Florida to live with my mom for the year and finish school online. I had no idea what the year would be like and took a very “go with the flow” mindset. It ended up going by very quickly and I’m so happy I made this decision because I also got to put much more attention on my mental health. Going from a big New York specialized high school (Brooklyn Tech) to online in Florida would have sounded crazy to me freshman year, but I learned that there are always different paths one can take, and that I don’t have to stick to one strict plan for success, especially when I don’t have a specific definition of success for myself. Basically: Trust the process!
I like the different textures of what I’m wearing. The skirt is shimmery and makes me think of a sophisticated rich lady and then the knit top and its colors makes the fit more fun. The skirt works because I feel like a smart, badass woman for getting through this year! And then the top I just love because of the bright colors. It has a raw hem from when I cut it shorter, so I get a whole playful vibe with it. It’s like the part of me that’s ready to think about summer and what’s ahead!
On the future: The past few months, in relation to the Black Lives Matter movement and COVID-19, have been exhausting at times, but overall, I do feel so much hope in the way society is starting to address issues that would have been strictly “social justice warrior” territory before. There’s a huge amount to be done and I’ve recently been thinking a lot about education. Switching to online school this year, watching more documentaries, thinking about my late diagnosis of ADHD and what that means when it comes to how I learn, and, of course, all the information being spread about systematic racism, has culminated in me realizing my passion for justice in education.
In freshman year, my English teacher at Brooklyn Tech (shout out Mr. Lederer!) taught me about redlining and how not being able to own a house alone smothered so much opportunity for families of color in America. It completely changed the way I viewed Black history and the current world around me. I definitely felt like it was something I needed to learn at a younger age. Long story short, I now very much want my career to be involved with curriculum design in the education system. I’m excited about it!
Photos by Olivia Wein.
The post One School Year Later: NYC Teens on Their “Last Day” Outfits—And Graduating During a Revolution appeared first on Man Repeller.
Leandra Medine's Blog
- Leandra Medine's profile
- 75 followers
