Category: Community

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  • The Hijab Takeover: A Fashion Phenomenon

    What do Nike, H&M, and Fenty Beauty share in common? These powerhouse brands have embraced a budding trend in the world of fashion: the hijab takeover. The year 2017 saw hijabi supermodel Halima Aden as part of Rihanna’s squad in the Fenty Beauty launch commercial, and hijabi Mariah Idrissi featured in an international H&M campaign.

    The Hijab in Western Advertising Campaigns

    A question comes to mind, “When did the hijab become so accepted that it’s now commonplace in Western advertising campaigns?” This shift can be traced to the increasing visibility of hijab-wearing fashionistas and influential women on social media platforms.

    Social Media: A Platform for Hijabis

    Social media has become a haven for hijabi women to showcase their talent, express themselves, and connect with other Muslim women across the globe. Though considered at odds with society or invisible, hijabi women have become normalized through social media and mainstream advertising campaigns.

    The Importance of Representation

    Nour Coudsi, a University of California, Berkeley student, emphasizes the importance of representation. “If you cannot see yourself in the media, it’s hard to gain a sense of representation, especially for girls who are just starting to wear the hijab,” she said. The media landscape is slowly changing, offering a sense of belonging and validation to hijabi women worldwide.

    Redefining the Hijab

    Social media is also enabling the Muslim community to engage in dialogue on what the hijab truly represents. Traditionally, the hijab is a cultural choice in Islam to express modesty and privacy through attire. But a single scroll through the #hijab on Instagram reveals various looks that define the hijab.

    Hijab: An Expression of Individuality

    Stanford sophomore, Leenah Al-Falih, speaks about her experience with the hijab, saying, “The variations of this do not matter, as long as you feel comfortable. I sometimes wear a beanie; I sometimes wear a headscarf. I try to break all the standards and stereotypes of what a hijabi should look like.”

    The Hijab as a Fashion Statement

    Millennials are increasingly interpreting the hijab in ways that diverge from the traditions of their mothers and grandmothers. The hijab is increasingly viewed as a component of fashion expression, not simply a veil of modesty.

    Brands Capitalizing on the Hijabi Market

    Significant brands also recognize the purchasing power of hijabi women across the globe. “Social media channels spreading hijabi makeup artists and clothing lines have helped me find more hijab-friendly clothes,” said Michael Alqadeeb, a Stanford second-year master’s student in geophysics.

    Hijabis: Breaking Stereotypes and Inspiring Women

    Hijabi women are no longer “hidden behind a veil,” as Al-Falih explains. They are inspiring figures in the media, proving there are no limits to what a hijabi woman can achieve. Hijabis are visible now and are here to stay. They are not only fashion influencers but also esteemed figures like Ibtihaj Muhammad, a U.S. Olympian fencer, and Noor Tagouri, a critically acclaimed journalist. Numerous Stanford women are studying various degrees, making a statement with their hijabs.

  • Long Live our Four-Billion Year Old Mother

    Long Live Our Four Billion-Year-Old Mother” is a lecture series offered at Stanford University this quarter through the Institute for Diversity in the Arts. The series is led by professors Alan Holt and Jakeya Caruthers, both respected voices in their respective fields. In my recent conversation with them, they shared insights into the driving factors behind creating this unique conversational forum.

    The main aim of the lecture series is to stretch the boundaries of imagination and to explore the concept of a world “otherwise.” The idea is to envision a world unbound by the constructs of borders, devoid of the necessity for incarceration, and free from the specter of climate collapse.

    The series has welcomed artists from numerous domains engaged in radical storytelling and organizing, covering essential topics such as police abolition, community mothering, and indigenization. These discussions are not meant to be mere academic exercises but aim to challenge existing thought structures and generate new perspectives actively.

    Holt and Caruthers express that the knowledge drawn from these forums can be a significant driving force towards conceiving and ultimately achieving this “otherwise” world. The lectures are designed to ignite the collective imagination of attendees and encourage them to think beyond the confines of traditional societal structures.

    This collaborative exploration of such critical themes underscores the importance of diversity in intellectual dialogue and the power of interdisciplinary learning. The course is a testament to Stanford’s commitment to fostering an inclusive academic environment that actively encourages innovative thought.

    As of the time of writing, the “Long Live Our Four Billion-Year-Old Mother” lecture series continues to incite thought-provoking conversations about reimagining the societal structures that we live within. The series stands as a testament to the value of diversity in academia and the transformative power of radical storytelling.

  • A Conversation with Stephanie Danan of CO

    This is an episode of an ongoing series of MINT interviews at Neiman Marcus.

    MINT: What was your background before you got started in fashion?

    Stephanie Danan: Well, I actually started in the movie business. I made movies for twenty years in Hollywood before I transitioned into fashion. I did have some fashion experience because my family was in it, so I knew it quite well. My partner and I started to do a small collection in 2011, and we made a film to go along with the collection, which got seen online by a lot of people. The stores started calling us and that’s how we started.

    MINT: That’s very interesting because a lot of people talk about large fashion houses and how they maintain a monopoly on fashion and what the people and stores buy…how they set the trends. But it sounds like you came up in a grassroots, avant garde kind of way. Do you see your method as a trend, or are you an anomaly?

    Stephanie Danan: I just think this idea that there is only one way to get to something is not true. There are so many different ways to get to where you want to go, and in terms of fashion, art, or film, a good story is a good story. Whether you prefer to tell that story through a screenplay, a collection, or a painting, it’s all the same. You are trying to convey an emotional experience.

    MINT: That’s really interesting. Since you made a film that was disseminated online, how do you feel like the role of technology as far as marketing has been incorporated in fashion today?

    Stephanie Danan: What’s really changed is the speed and how quickly people want the new things, which puts a lot of pressure on fashion and definitely changed the landscape that way. That’s why we try to create classic pieces which have nothing to do with the trends. We aim to create timeless fashion.

    MINT: Based on your background working in films, how do you see that inspiration in your clothes or how you define the line?

    Stephanie Danan: In terms of films, I studied drama and dramatic storytelling, so I think there is a bit of that in our clothes. There is a dramatic impact, whether a sleeve or an embellishment. But we’re also staying quite simple and trying to stand for the experience as well.

    MINT: I really like your idea of everything having to tell a story. For someone who works in publishing, we always try to incorporate that as well. Do you think you could tell me first a story about any challenges you faced at the beginning of the company?

    Stephanie Danan: We started in our living room. We had no money. We lived and breathed our work. We gave 100% of ourselves into the experience, which was quite challenging. We had to work really hard to get to a place where we were able to show the collection to the store and deliver on time. The whole process of the cycle of fashion is very challenging. It was definitely hard, and there was a learning curve for sure.

    MINT: Was there any time you felt like giving up?

    Stephanie Danan: I don’t think so, not yet!

    MINT: Also, if you could talk about one of your pieces that conveys some story?

    Stephanie Danan: This dress (shown on the left model) is my favorite of the collection. This collection was shot at Marlene Dietrich’s home in Los Angeles, which was never shot before; where she spent a lot of time, and a lot of archival photography was shot in that house. For me, it is very reminiscent of that era of old Hollywood glamour.

    MINT: This piece is really beautiful. Can you tell me more about it as far as the process and what it contains?

    Stephanie Danan: I fell in love with the fabric and wanted to use this flowing, velvety fabric to create an effortless silhouette. I talk a lot about it being a perfect hostess dress when you have people over for dinner and that you are dressed up but not overly dressed because of its flowing and casual nature. I like this idea of incredibly rich fabrics but a very easy casual silhouette.

    MINT: I like this idea of the perfect hostess dress. It makes me think that each of these pieces has a role…

    Stephanie Danan: Yes, a character.

    MINT: Exactly. So what would be the overall vibe character you are going for with your design?

    Stephanie Danan: Femininity. The character is always feminine, but she makes fun of herself and doesn’t take herself too seriously because we don’t like it when fashion takes itself too seriously. She is generous. She knows who she is. She is strong and leads a very busy life, but she is also multi-cultured, loves movies and traveling, and is not one-dimensional.

    MINT: Looking toward the future, where do you see your company and your designs going?

    Stephanie Danan: I aspire to make women feel great about themselves, not necessarily through the clothes but through the brand’s message. The clothes are just an extension of who they are: individuals with a lot of beauty and love that emanates from within. The clothes are really there to serve that and nothing else.

  • Why Femme Male Models Matter: Shattering Stereotypes in Fashion

    In an enlightening editorial on the roles and stereotypes in the fashion industry, “Why Femme Male Models Matter” explores the growing trend of gender fluidity in fashion. Siena Fay delves into this topic with personal experiences and industry examples. You can find the complete article and corresponding photo collection here.

    Siena Fay and her brother Blue Fay models for the editorial, which Jessica Yeung beautifully photographs. Their explorations into fashion and its impact on their own lives present an illuminating view on how gender roles and stereotypes are being challenged.

    Siena’s brother, Blue, himself a model, defies traditional gender norms with grace and style. Not alone in this endeavor, the fashion industry has begun to blur the lines between femininity and masculinity. Designers such as Marc Jacobs, Stefano Pilati, Gucci, Vetements, and Palomo Spain have challenged these conventions, showcasing their collections on mixed-sex models.

    The fashion world is progressively diluting the stark boundaries of traditional masculinity. This allows individuals to express their identities more authentically. For instance, Louis Vuitton cast Jaden Smith in its Spring-Summer 2016 womenswear ad campaign, described by Vogue as cyberpunk bohemian chic.

    “I consider myself gender-fluid, and (modeling) is interestingly enough one of the few spaces where I really get to explore that part of my identity in a celebrated way,” said Blue Fay. Despite the progress, gender-fluid individuals still encounter resistance, making their bravery in expressing their identity all the more commendable.

    While fashion provides an avenue to challenge gender stereotypes, the struggle for acceptance outside the industry remains real. “Sometimes I worry when my brother goes to the bank or Target with his pointed blue acrylic nails and red lipstick. But mostly, I am proud,” shares Siena.

    In a time when political dynamics and societal norms seem more regressive, fashion is striking back with a strong message of inclusion. Icons like Jaden Smith and Pharrell Williams have championed the cause, normalizing what wasn’t expected before their time. The movement isn’t just about the inclusion of femme male models or gender-fluid individuals. It is about pushing for a broader representation beyond the traditional molds.

    The fashion industry is striving towards this goal, but there is still a long way to go. As Siena Fay beautifully puts it, “Fashion still has a long way to go before all genders and identities are represented, but the space being carved out is promising. Perhaps we will witness fashion change the social construct of masculinity. Perhaps we already are, one skirt at a time.”

    To understand the full depth of this conversation, explore the original article. It’s not just about fashion. It’s about identity, acceptance, and the courage to challenge societal norms.

  • A Conversation with Mesro Coles-El: The Power of Education and Resilience in the Prison System

    Introduction

    Every so often, we encounter an individual who can illuminate the profound impact that education and personal resilience can have on one’s life, even in the most challenging circumstances. Mesro Coles-El is one such individual. An inmate at San Quentin State Prison, Mesro, is currently graduating from the Prison University Project. He shares a few insights about his life, education, challenges, and aspirations with us. His story serves as a reminder that opportunity and potential can thrive anywhere – even within prison walls.

    Education and Legacy

    Coles-El champions the transformative power of education. He views it not merely as a stepping-stone to employment but as a life-changing journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. “College courses are not engineered to change your minds about your life completely. What if the class teaches you something right that you thought about wrongly? Make it a point to welcome the change in your life that comes with education,” he advises.

    The Prison University Project

    Grateful for the dedicated volunteers who have chosen to invest their time in inmates like him, Mesro believes the Prison University Project provides a much-needed platform for interactive learning. “Hearing ideas from teachers and students simultaneously is the best way to learn, in my opinion,” he shares.

    Challenging Assignments and Personal Achievements

    While unable to pinpoint a specific assignment as his favorite, Mesro reflects fondly on the collective experience of learning in prison, an environment far from conducive to intellectual growth. Among his proudest accomplishments are a poem titled “Human Element,” inspired during a chemistry midterm, a piece named “The Rock, the River, and the Tree,” published in OpenLine, and a series of film boards he created for Introduction to Film.

    Advice for Incoming Students

    To future students, Mesro’s advice is simple but impactful: take education seriously. He implores them to embrace the chance of a lifetime and not to squander the opportunities that come with it. “A chance for an education is not given to everyone the way some think it is,” he says, emphasizing the role of professors as supportive and enriching figures in this process.

    Future Aspirations

    Beyond completing his AA Degree, Mesro has set his sights on teaching and furthering his education, specifically in computer-based skills such as CGI, video games, films, websites, and programming. He also aspires to use his writing to effect social change and engage in creative pursuits in the digital world.

    Challenges and Misconceptions

    For Mesro, time management is one of the most significant challenges of being a college student. He candidly discusses the often misunderstood reality of prison life and the need for changes in the criminal justice system. He hopes to dispel the stereotypes surrounding incarcerated individuals and foster an understanding of their journey toward self-improvement and societal contribution.

    Influential Figures

    While he can’t single out one tutor or instructor, Mesro attributes his success to the collective impact of all the teachers and tutors he’s interacted with. Their open-mindedness and dedication have inspired his aspirations to become a teacher one day.

    Liberal Arts Education

    To Mesro, a Liberal Arts education signifies preparation for more specialized areas of study. He sees the reflection of Liberal Arts as instrumental in gaining a broad understanding of the world and serving as a foundation for further educational pursuits.

    Passions and Extra-curricular Activities

    Mesro has many passions, from literacy, gaming, mathematics, and social change, to hip-hop, science fiction, and astrophysics. His upcoming book, Triumph, combines several of these passions, presenting a science fiction narrative inspired by his commitment to literacy and education. Besides writing, he also engages in gaming, applying its techniques to his life and educational pursuits.

    Support System and Words of Wisdom

    Mesro credits his success to the Prison University Project volunteers, his encouraging parents, supportive friends, and classmates. He offers congratulation and encouragement to his fellow graduates, urging them to keep fighting for a better world.

    Coles-El’s story shines a light on the power of education and resilience, reminding us that it’s never too late to change our life trajectory, irrespective of where we find ourselves. His narrative embodies the possibilities of growth and transformation, even within the confines of the prison system.