HOW DOES SOCIAL MEDIA MANIPULATE YOUR FASHION STYLE AND MAKE YOU BUY?

Swipe, swipe, swipe!

Do you ever think about how the images you see effect your brain? The scary thing is, social media is like a double sided coin. In one sense it can empower you, and in another it can manipulate and dominate your mind and opinions. 

You may think your thoughts are your own, but in reality, many of your thoughts have been placed there. 

Just take fashion trends as the biggest proof of product placement, and mind manipulation. Brands will contact popular bloggers, or people with large social media followers and give them free products and paid advertorials to jumpstart a "popular new trend". 

Instantaneously, the product appears repeatedly in your feed, planting mental seeds in millions of brains.

The key to having original fashion style is to be aware of how social media works. Ask yourself why you like a certain fashion item? How original are you? Why do you want it?

 If the main reason you want something is because you saw it all over Instagram, then give a silent applause to the brand advertisers who have successfully sold their products to you. 

Happy Holiday Shopping!

xo,

Maya

TFTV: HOW TO DRESS AT #NYFW

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Fashion Debate: Are Tattoos Fashionable?

There is no debate that times have changed. In the past, tattoos and fashion did not ever mix. A models' career would have been highly jeopardized if they were "inked" anywhere on their body. Models were meant to be blank canvases with beautiful silhouettes, and their purpose was simply to promote the brand in the image the brand chose. They're "inner being" was not to be exposed, and tattoos would have always been removed. 

However, with charismatic models like Cara Delevigne coming to the forefront of fashion, tattoos have sort of become a "thing". Her "Made in England" and lion imprint, are just a few of her tattoos that have become her trademark symbol. This is a huge shift in the fashion worlds of brands, and labels, merging their identities onto the trademarks of celebrity models. Models are now given opportunities to promote fashion houses as themselves rather than beautiful people that do not exist.

Pro's and Cons of Tattoo Trend:

Pro's:

 The attempt to achieve self identity and discovery through finding a symbol, saying, or picture to represent what is inside of you, is in many ways a form of self discovery. It is a positive attempt to display a quality within you that you identify with so deeply that you want it etched in your blood. 

Tattoos as an art form, allow you to embrace something within you and place it on the surface as a reminder of what you cannot see. 

Cons: 

Tattoos in many ways are risky. The reason being, people are not stagnant. Who you are today, is very different than who you will be in 5, 10, 20, years. With time and experiences, you evolve, and change. Yes, there are many aspects to people that are coded so deep in their DNA, that a lifetime would not change it. However, knowing what those elements are, usually takes a lifetime to figure out. Quotations, pictures, symbols, that may speak to you now, may annoy you later on. 

Conclusion:

Tattoos and fashion are similar in artistic form but different in the aspects of change. The beauty of fashion is its ability to evolve through self expression. Your style changes with your life, and certain aspects will always remain, but in the end fashion lives in its ability to change. Tattoos lack this character of "flexibility" and could end up hindering your desire to evolve and grow. 

❤

Maya

Change the World through Fashion

When we think about fashion, it is often misunderstood as this glitzy, glamorous world, that can do no wrong. After all the debate between cerulean and electric blue as a color trend, seems harmless enough, right?

The truth of the matter is, fashion is a multi trillion dollar industry, and with that comes massive impact on the interweaving world that is LIFE. Where did the garment come from, and who and how did they make it? Unless, little magic elves exist, there is a back story to every fashion piece and most likely not a pretty one. It's time we make fashion about expression, life, and intelligence rather than a celebration of waste, ignorance and vanity. Fashion is about life and how you choose to live it. What do you choose?

Fashion impacts lives, whether it be in style, beauty, jobs, or the environment. It is imperative there is a form of "fashion ethics" that should be demanded by consumers. However, in order to do that there needs to be a level of awareness of the abuse and pollution that occurs in the first place. For example, who would have known that such popular brands as ZARA and PRIMARK were responsible for the death of over 1000 workers in Bangladesh? If you think about it, it does make sense. With so many clothes made every season, and prices getting suspiciously lower, you have to ask yourself, at what or who's expense did this garment land in your shopping cart? Should it be considered fashion at the expense of a life, or the decline of the environment itself?

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP?

Launching our own campaign on TALK FASHION, "FASHIONHEART" will be a monthly, 7 day tribute to posts, fully dedicated to ethical, and environmentally conscious fashion.  The posts will feature such topics as, DIY's on reusing old clothes, vintage shopping and care tips, recycled style, and any informational knowledge on brands that have gone green or choose to neglect or harm the world.

Join me on TALK FASHION in spreading Fashion Conscious Style. 

xo,

Maya

Check out this amazing and inspiring speech by Eva Kruse, CEO of the Danish Fashion Institute and Chairman of the Nordic Fashion Association, and Copenhagen Fashion Week. She speaks about changing the World through fashion at the critically acclaimed TEDx Copenhagen. 

http://youtu.be/d4VTPLpfGq0

Re-Defining FASHION

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, fashion is defined as:

"a popular way of dressing during a particular time or among a particular group of people; the business of creating and selling clothes in new styles; clothes that are popular."

The debate between what is fashion verses what is style is a direct result of the fact the definition of fashion itself is flawed and incomplete. Fashion cannot exist without style, just as style cannot exist without fashion.

 No different to art, music, and literature, fashion is a form of self expression shaped by our own human experiences. It should not be defined by the level of "popularity" it experiences in a given time period, nor should it be justified by the opinions of anyone but your own. 

It is ridiculous to equate fashion by current trends, or how much you "buy". Defining fashion based on trends, popularity or the "business" that exists around it, takes away from the artistic nature of fashion itself.

 Fashion does not discriminate and anyone who has the courage to embrace who they are, is capable of fashion.  Letting go of the desire to be accepted and following what socially surrounds them, is one of the greatest challenges in life. 

Fashion is not simply the physical adorning of the body, face, and hair, but the collaboration of the inner thoughts, and personal taste that allow you to create your own self-presentation. If you simply dress without thought, the garments you wear, will always remain as lifeless textile. 

Any worthy fashion designer, has a vision, and a message inspired by something. Copying head to toe looks, created by a famous fashion house, is undoubtedly a sure way to impress and look flawless. However, it should not be mistaken as your own merits of fashion, you are merely a dress form, displaying the fashion abilities of someone else. If you steal fashion to your benefit, it will surely use you right back. 

Although the practical purpose of clothing is to "cover" our bodies, ironically, the true purpose is to "expose" one's self. Figuring out how to dress yourself is as important as understanding who you really are, and what you are all about.

Lazy Style: 4 Signs You Sold Your Fashion Soul

                                             LAZY DAYS 

                            What we think we look like

                                  What we actually look like

Laziness is the trend of the moment. Dressing like a complete slob has somehow taken over our communities, and it shows no sign of stopping. 

It all began with the ballet flat epidemic, which started as a tribute to Audrey Hepburns adorable ballet inspired look. This basically introduced all women to the comfortable world of flats, leading most to swap out painful heels for comfort. However, it didn't stop there. This led to wanting some amazing pants to match with the comfort of our shoes. This is when the spandex, jeggings, explosion occurred. Why fuss with buttons or rigid waists?  Sweat Pants, are an old classic but never have they been more acceptable to run around in public doing our daily errands. In the past, believe it or not,  it would have been completely taboo to be seen in such "lounge wear". 

Of course, we all have our moments when we are over worked, and stressed to our max. However, submitting to a "LAZY" look is a sign of personal defeat. Every once in awhile, "defeat" maybe unavoidable, after all we are human. However, a daily dose of, "Lazy", is a fashion sin. 

"Sweat pants are a sign of defeat. You lost control of your life so you bought some sweat pants." -Karl Lagerfeld

4 Signs You Have Sold Your Fashion Soul. 

 

                                           1.)  ONESIE

Onsies are a fashion nightmare. A horribly hilarious idea that has some how become a reality. Literally a piece of cloth sewn together by the strength of every lazy thought possible. We have zippers, fleece,and a hoodie, you might as well have LOSER written across the back as well. 

                                       2.)  SWEAT PANTS

Sweat pants only belong in  two places, either the gym or at home lounge on the couch. The moment you feel it is acceptable to be seen anywhere else, is a sign you have given up, and traded in your self respect.

                                       3.)  SPANDEX PANTS

Yes, spandex stretches, and it feels great. However, They are an eyesore to look at. Of course if they are styled properly, and certain bits are properly covered it can be cute. What I am talking about are those  that slap on some spandex and a t-shirt and feel they are good to go. Think again. 

                      

                           4.)ULTRA COMFORTABLE SHOES

Lazy shoe addiction!

I have to admit, I am quite guilty of this one. It is very hard to give up the comfort that flat shoes bring. However, now that I have moved back to California, and no longer have to "walk" from destination to destination or take public transport, I feel I have no justifiable excuse to not wear high heels. Surprisingly enough,  my ability to walk in high heels or high wedges has significantly weakened right  along with my tolerance for pain. However, just like anything in life all it takes is a bit of practice. You can't imagine what a bit of a heel can do for your posture and physique. Trust me, it's worth the effort. 

Picking the Perfect Dress Using the Principles of Color Therapy

When people think about what to wear, they usually mindlessly pick what they like or what is on trend. However, why not use some basic principles of color therapy or Chromotherapy, and dress in colors that give off the right signals to improve your own moods, while projecting the right vibe for the right situation.

Here is a whole new way to picking the perfect dress!

	Red It is not news to anyone, that a red dress is sexy on pretty much any girl. However, what is it about this color that is so appealing and sexy?  As the color of passion, it visually brings warmth to your brain, stimulating energy and increasing blood flow. It casues hemoglobin in your blood to multiply increasing and raising body temperature. The effect is rather simply, you simply look "hotter", literally. This is also holds true for temperature. On  hot summer months, wearing red, will make you feel warmer and is best to be worn on colder days.  Red, on men, is viewed as masculine, and virule. It is not a coincidence that during presidential elections  you will see red neckties on the candidates.
	Orange Orange is a warm, and cheerful color. It has a freeing action upon the body and mind, relieving repressions. Orange shows new possibilities and other options in life. It stimulates  creative thinking and enthusiasm, and helps assimilate new ideas. This is a color that encourages charm, kindness, optimism, success, abundance, prosperity, and positivity.  A perfect color to adopt into your wardrobe if you are starting a new chapter in your life.
	Yellow Yellow helps strengthen the nerves and the mind. It helps awaken mental inspiration and stimulates higher mentality. Thus, it is an excellent color for nervous or nerve-related situations.  It also can activate and cheer up depressed and melancholic people. it adds zest to your day and a lust for life. If you need a bit of confidence, joy, cheerfulness, or mental clarity, yellow is your color.
	Green Green is the color of Nature and the earth. It will balance and add harmony. It possesses a soothing quality for both mind and body.  It is also the perfect color for any condition that needs "healing". Often times hospitals, use green for this exact reason and it is also proven to help psychological and emotional balance.  The perfect color if you are currently or just recently have been through some kind of trauma. Whether it be emotional or physical, it will help in the healing process.
	Blue Blue is cooling and electric. Dr. Edwin Babbitt, in his book, "The Principles of Light and Color," writes that "The Blue Ray is one of the greatest antiseptics in the world." The color cools down heat. Whether you are hot with anger or from a heatwave, if you need to cool off this is the color for you. Cool and soothing, it is dreamy and magical.
	Indigo The color Indidgo also contains healing properties. Indigo is a great purifier and gives the impression of regality or elegance. It is a heavy color, closests to "black" and yet there is a "soothing" quality that pulls you out of the darkness. Often times indigo is used at formal events, school uniforms, or royal costume. It is an orthodox color that can make the wildest flower seem a bit more tame.
	Violet / Purple Purple is the color of transformation. It can help soothe mental and emotional stress, and decrease sensitivity to pain.  It is an interesting fact that, Leonardo da Vinci proclaimed that purple rays found in Church raise, and increase the power of meditation ten-fold. Purple which is the highest color of the color spectrum is often related to royality. In the past, some countries have even band purple as the color only to be worn by the royal family. If ever you desire to be queen for a day, purple is the color for you.
	White White is the color we associate with purity (i.e wedding white).  The color raises the vibration of one's consciousness, bringing mental clarity and harmony.  It is often interpretted as innocent, pure, clean, fresh, and simple.  If you desire to simplify your life, and cut down on  the emotional stresses of life, add white to your wardrobe, and home decor.
	Magenta  Magenta is a color known to strengthen inner spirit. It contains much magnetism, and attracts much attention. Like a stop sign, if you want to get noticed, where magenta.
	Pink Pink is an excellent color to relieve grief and sadness. It restores  youthfulness and charm. It is known to bring you closer to your true feelings, and feminity.  It is regarded as the most feminine color of the spectrum and adds immediate sweetness to anyone.  If you feel people fear you, and see you as a hard person, definitely add some pink in your accessories.
	Turquoise Turquoise is a color that increases strength and power into your look. A color based off the stone, 'Turquoise' it is often used for regality, and adds prestige to any look. It is a color that gets you noticed, but is always elegant and cool.
	Brown Brown is an earth color, meaning, it is grounding, and approachable. it is a great color to increase decisiveness and concentration.  The color gives off the impression of a practical person with a preference for nature. It is primitive, solid and simple. It can be warm and cosy, and perfect for those no fuss lazy days.
	Grey Grey is a Neutralizing color that deflects negative energy. It is non controversial and non-expressive. It is passive, but still professional and elegant.  Grey is often a color worn in press announcements or interviews after scandals or court cases.
	Black  The color black expresses, seriousness, darkness, and depression. It is a mournful color that relates to mystery, and secrecy. It is known to be a color  that garners respect, due to the fact that it makes you appear more serious. This is why it is often the color used for formal events, funerals, and events with a heavier theme.
	Gold Gold is the color of luxury, and spirituality. A color often used in religion, it contains a "heavenly" quality that makes you unreachable, and admireable.
	Silver Silver is similar to the qualities of the color "grey". A much cooler tone than gold, it represents peacefulness, and passivity.
	Bronze Bronze is very similar to the principals of gold, however, with added bits of red, it is much more fiery in passion.  It is glamorous, and powerful but not as regal as gold.

Jeremy Scott Makes a Mockery of Fashion

Recently, Jeremy Scott debut his first collection as Creative Director for the legendary Italian House, Moschino. What did he choose as inspiration for this coveted collection?

None other than, McDonalds, Candy wrappers, junkfood, and Sponge Bob Square Pants. 

Was this collection just a horrible joke, or is this really the new face of Moschino?

When asked why he created a collection with so little depth, Scott told the New York Times that he’s just trying to have a little fun, which will hopefully translate to clothes people crave. In his words: 

“Ultimately, we need no more clothes. We could function with everything that’s on the earth right now. So you have to have this reason to want things. To me, it’s to make you happy, and to me, that’s linked to humor.”

Moschino has always been a celebrated house of wit, quirkiness, and irony. Always a playful collection, but the humor is not the same as Jeremy Scott. Scott's humor is neither innovative nor artistic, it is cheap. Ironically, his aesthetic is a perfect match for junk food, and discardable candy wrappers. He represents everything going wrong with fashion and society. He is wonderfully marketable, and creates huge shock value but his creations have nothing to say. Useless noise. 

 If you compare his happy meal inspired handbag to an actual happy meal you pay $6 for, it looks almost identical. Where is the creativity, or artistry? This is simply a copy of a cheap child's meal. 

Mimicking, McDonald's workers, caused an uproar of complaints. The fashion house was accused of creating an ironic joke at the expense of McDonald's workers. The joke being, although the clothes are inspired by them, they could never afford it. 

Can we just take a second to re- think who the joke is on? The only person who should be laughed at is the person who spends $1000 for something that looks like fast food wrappers. Any employee of McDonald's would never desire paying thousands on their awful uniforms. 

I wish I could say this collection was a colossal failure, and  our society is too smart to feed into total garbage. Unfortunately, the collection is hitting magazine covers, selling out in stores, and proving there are a lot of ignorant people who pay a lot to look stupid. 

The fear is, what is next? Fashion is after all a business and they respond to demand. Should we look forward to pizza hut ball gowns, or frozen dinner purses? 

This is the danger of trends my friends. 

Don't Drink and Dress.

x

Maya

 

Golden Goddesses in Dolce & Gabbana Spring Collection

Spring 2014 Collection, Dolce & Gabbana mixed Sicilian elements with the majesty of the ancient Greeks. They payed tribute to the grandeur of Grecian temples, and the sprinkling of Roman and Greek coins all over their entire collection. From belts, to dresses, to handbags and earrings, these golden coins were sprinkled in golden rain all over their creations. 

The models had their hair up in braids like Greek goddesses and wore tiaras made of almond flowers or gold coins. 

The Almond tree was of huge inspiration, and blossoming almond flowers can also be seen throughout the collection.

A collection that celebrates the femininity of a woman, as if blossoming from a beautiful tree. The accents of gold, empower women, as a strong force of glamour and strength, balancing the hard and soft, that works so beautiful the Spring season!