Midway through the last century, fashion and style began to take on a much more complex connection to the social issues of the day. When the Beatles exploded on the scene in the early 60′s, style became much more tightly connected to point of view and political persuasion than at any time in the past.
One of the first points of contact between fashion and social issues was the Vietnam War and the developing opposition to that conflict. Invariably, those strongly opposed to the war wore their hair long and favored tie-dyed “hippie” clothes while those who supported the conflict wore their hair short and chose clothes that were much more conservative in nature.
When the opposition succeeded in hastening an end to the Vietnam conflict, it seemed only natural that these activists (as they were now called) would turn their attention to other pressing social issues and style and fashion offered several flashpoints which could be exploited.
Animal rights activists came down hard on the fashion industry for supporting the cruel capture and killing of animals in order to support many of the popular styles of the day including furs, minks and other clothing. This led to a number of consumer boycotts and those wearing the clothing were often confronted on the street.
It was about this time that Hollywood began to inject itself much more strongly into social issues and thus began a long line of actors and actresses who would take strong stands on these issues and again, the fashion world was the perfect target.
When the United States began to lose its’ once predominant position in the textile industry, most of the industry shifted to lesser developed parts of the world where working conditions often approached “sweatshop” status. With Hollywood taking the lead, consumers boycotted many of the companies that used these ill-treated workers to make the garments and, in many cases, succeeded in changing company policy.
In today’s world, fashion is becoming more closely aligned with the Green movement and it is becoming fashionable these days to be “eco-chic” and this trend appears to be gaining momentum. As consumers become more educated about the complexities of the garment business, they will want to know about all the details that are involved in getting clothing to the marketplace and will expect to get the same level of transparency from clothing companies that they now expect from the food industry.
Fashion and style, in the past, were all about creating an image but now that image can also include the personal value set of the wearer and it looks as if this connection between fashion and social issues is here to stay.
Prom 2010 is quickly approaching and like every new season there are new trends in hair, make-up, and prom dress fashion to look forward to. Knowing these trends can make finding that unique prom dress quick and easy.
Make-up: If you’re planning on attending prom this year one of the best ways to ensure you look your best is with your make-up choices. When choosing your look, you should keep it traditional with touches of trend. A bold eye with a soft lip or bright bold lips with a soft neutral eye is sure to bring any look together on that special day. Also keep in mind that your eye shadows don’t have to match your prom dress and that touches of metallic jewel tones can be a fun touch to any look.
Hair: Treat your hair like it was part of your prom dress. Hair can both complete and accentuate your prom look. The “Up-do” is a classic traditional look that has passed the test of time. This style is perfect when showing off a sexy prom dress that has an embellished back that deserves to be seen. You may also want to look to the red carpet for inspiration; celebrities most often set the trends. Don’t be afraid to take a risk and try such hair trends as braids, retro styles from the 40s or 50s, messy ponytails, and chignon buns swept to the side. These looks could be just what you need to achieve that unique style you’re looking for.
Fashions: While simple and traditional prom dresses will forever be in fashion, stand out this prom season in fun prints and floral patterns. Sophisticated one shoulder prom dresses are also making a dramatic statement for Prom 2010. Vintage prom styles from the 40s and 50s are a fun trend for 2010, with long sweeping gowns and A-line silhouettes, these prom dresses are making a comeback. For the risk takers Short prom dresses with full skirts are a flirty alternative to your traditional prom dress.
Knowing what’s in this season will help you put together a look that is as unique and spectacular as you are.
Landing an internship at a fashion magazine seems like a dream to many girls. Surrounded by glamour and celebrities, styling shoots and being surrounded by tons of designer clothes. And let’s not forget the perks: free designer items. But it’s a tough job, and before you can even find that out aspiring fashion magazine interns have to compete with thousands of other girls to get the job. Here’s a few pointers on how to do it.
Always approach a fashion magazine internship like you would any other job. You’ll want to submit a resume, cover letter and references unless stated otherwise. Depending on the magazine they might want writing samples as well. Tailor your cover letter to each individual magazine. Be sure to mention recent company events in the cover letter. For example, congratulate them on a special issue or increasing their circulation; this let’s them know you’ve done your homework.
Close your cover letter with your objective, but leave this off of your resume. You want your objective to show you will benefit them, not vice versa. If you want to learn from the experience and hopefully turn your fashion magazine internship with them into a full time job that’s great. But spin it in such a way to make it sound like you will be giving them something.
Be sure you know your stuff before going in to the interview. Of course this includes company information, but it’s certainly not limited to that. Even the fashion magazine interns need to know everything there is about fashion. Know designers, know the models, know the stylists, know the photographers. And not just by name, know their styles and what makes them different. If they ask you what designers you would pull to put together a demure look, don’t say Cavalli or Versace. If they ask you who your top three favorite models of the moment are, leave anyone with a Victoria’s Secret contract off the list. You get the picture.
This probably goes without saying, but I’ll say it anyways: even those wanting a fashion magazine internship need to dress to kill. Many fashion magazine editors have said that they look for girls who can mix high end pieces with discount pieces and a touch of vintage. Your looks should definitely be trendy but still appropriate. Accessorize, but don’t over accessorize. Wear good shoes that look expensive.
Hopefully these pointers will help you land a fashion magazine internship. Always remember to be professional and of course be fashionable!