Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Supersize Me Review
Supersize Me is a Morgan Spurlock film about how fast food chains such as McDonalds are greatly contributing to the increasing population of obese Americans. In this interactive documentary, Spurlock takes on the “McDiet” in which he must only eat McDonalds for an entire month. There are many other aspects to this diet. For example, he must purchase everything on the menu at least twice and order a “supersize” when offered, hence the name. He also cuts down his workouts to remain constant with the average American’s 5000 steps per day.
Before he starts his new diet, he has a weigh-in and overall physical fitness test. Spurlock is above average in his body-fat/muscle ratio and seems to be in excellent general health. He consults with many different doctors as well as a nutritionalist and a personal trainer and asks how much this diet will affect his current health. Most of the doctors say that unhealthy habits will have minor side effects, but nothing particularly harmful.
By the end of the first week, Spurlock has already gained a significant amount of weight and he is experiencing symptoms such as depression and lethargy. On the 21st day, Spurlock has heart palpitations after gaining even more weight. When he made it to the 30th day of the challenge, all of the doctors were surprised by the dramatic changes to his body shape and some predicted that his previous heart troubles could have irreversible effects. His girlfriend, Alexandra Jamieson, a vegan chef, helped Spurlock create a special de-tox diet. It took him 14 months to lose all of the weight and regain his health.
This film was eye-opening. Since I am a kinesthetic learner, I thought the demonstration of how fast food really affects the body and mind really resonated with my learning style. The facts really stuck with me as I was able to see the changes in Spurlock’s drastically deteriorating health. This film is intercut with many interviews and images that help illustrate Spurlock’s research about obesity. This helps the viewer digest the sometimes incomprehensible statistics. Statistics about obesity and perception of fast food were motifs that helped give the audience a break from Spurlock’s gross objective.
The film a little grainy and the filmmaker used mainly natural lighting. I think this made the film seem more personal and homemade, especially the parts in which the camera was wobbly. In some cases, Spurlock was filming himself in his car or outside the restaurant. I felt almost as if I was at the restaurant with him every day, and every day he seemed more and more out of it.
I would definitely recommend this film for anyone that doesn’t have a weak stomach (It can get a little gross at times). It definitely gave me a different perspective of the fast food industry and really made me question some of my diet choices.
You can watch the entire video on Hulu for free:
Monday, December 17, 2012
Fashion Trends that Irritate Me- Uggs
Uggs- I apologize in advanced to those of you who own a pair (or pairs) of Uggs. And for those of you that have been living under a rock since the 90’s, Uggs are a “unisex style of sheepskin boot made of twin-faced sheepskin with fleece on the inside and with a tanned outer surface, often with a synthetic sole”. Yes, I just quoted Wikipedia. Not in an attempt to plagiarize from The Worst Website Ever (preached by every teacher since third grade), but to give an objective definition. I can barely type the word Ugg without shuddering in my boots (Steve Madden combat boots to be exact). Wikipedia later states that this type of shoe originated as a “utilitarian boot” purely for “warmth and comfort”. I wish it stayed that way. Anyways, ever since the 90’s these boots have been everywhere. And I mean everywhere. During the dreary winter months, I see so many girls in the hallways at Blair wearing the typical shapeless sweatshirts, yoga pants, and of course, the infamous grungy camel clubfooted clompers known as Uggs. And boy they are UGGly (that was not trying to be original; I realize that so many people beat me to that joke). They make every girl look like they have thick calves and duck feet. The cliché chestnut color and cheapie suede do not flatter any outfit. I realize that many girls wear Uggs because they are easy and comfortable, but I would really rather see everyone show up in their fluffy duck slippers. At least it would be more interesting. It’s like looking at clones as they file down the hallways, the parade of plain t-shirts, Uggs, and leggings. I mean there have to be some other options for comfortable boots. And some girls are CRAZY about their Uggs. Anyone in their right mind would be after spending TWO-HUNDRED DOLLARS on cheap looking shoes, but they take so much work to maintain. One small drop of water could make a giant stain and then they’re ruined. I saw a local dry cleaning business that advertised “Ugg Cleaning”. This means that people are paying even more than $200 if they are going to get them cleaned on a regular business. I’ve seen dirty Ugg boots and they are even less attractive, though I never thought that would be possible.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Polyvore: My New Obsession
I found my new favorite website! This does not bode well for homework procrastination problem, but I'm still really excited. It's called (drum-roll please)....POLYVORE! I guess I'm late to hop on the bandwagon, but I'm so glad I found this site. Polyvore allows users to pin images of clothing and fashion to create collages called "sets". The site can also be helpful for shopping since users can search through thousands of products and find new websites. Of course, my sets represent my fantasy fashion. I would never pay even half the cost of most of the items I save. Why buy a $2000 blazer when that money could feed a four person family for almost 19 weeks? That doesn't mean I can't still obsess over these clothes...
Here's an example of a set I made:
Here's an example of a set I made:
Anndra Neen choker necklace
tenover6.com
Of course, the cheapest item used in this set is the set of sequins that cost $3.98, and that was just for inspiration. The Alexander McQueen top costs a whopping $3175. Not $31.75, not even $317.50. $3175 for a shirt. A cheaper version is sold here for $96.75, comparatively inexpensive, but seemingly overpriced in my opinion. The $400 leggings seem relatively cheap paired with the McQueen couture. The Studded Valentino Boots rang in at $1495. I understand the pricing on the high quality black leather, but the studding looks like something I could recreate at home.
There are lots of expensive clothes in the world, so what? I guess the point is that people can use this website to create a wardrobe with clothes they can't normally afford. Who doesn't like to play virtual dress-up every so often?
~~Anyway, that's it for today! As I continue to familiarize myself with this website, I'll try to find creative ways to use it in my blog. Bye for now!
tenover6.com
Of course, the cheapest item used in this set is the set of sequins that cost $3.98, and that was just for inspiration. The Alexander McQueen top costs a whopping $3175. Not $31.75, not even $317.50. $3175 for a shirt. A cheaper version is sold here for $96.75, comparatively inexpensive, but seemingly overpriced in my opinion. The $400 leggings seem relatively cheap paired with the McQueen couture. The Studded Valentino Boots rang in at $1495. I understand the pricing on the high quality black leather, but the studding looks like something I could recreate at home.
There are lots of expensive clothes in the world, so what? I guess the point is that people can use this website to create a wardrobe with clothes they can't normally afford. Who doesn't like to play virtual dress-up every so often?
~~Anyway, that's it for today! As I continue to familiarize myself with this website, I'll try to find creative ways to use it in my blog. Bye for now!
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Fashion and Economic Trends Analysis
With the economy in a state of recovery and unemployment rates decreasing, the Fall/Winter 2012 runways have produced trends that may represent an improving market.
(From left: Mara Hoffman, Rag & Bone, Michael Kors, Dries Van Noten)
The "comfort" trend consists of thick cashmeres, blanket coats, and flannels to convey a sense of ease as the economy gradually restores and stabilizes. This cozy garb will make everything seem more calm and relaxed.
(From Left: Lacoste, Balenciaga, Céline, Prada)
The "luxe" trend describes the use of expensive and lavish textiles. Tweed garments and structured suits are heavily featured on this season's runways. Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel revolutionized the tweed suit in the 1920s, a time of economic prosperity. With a growing interest in vegetarianism, leather and equally expensive faux leather share the spotlight in many fall collection. There are also many garments that were hand-beaded or encrusted with jewels.
(From Left: Prabal Gurung, Givenchy, Salvatore Ferragamo, Herve Leger)
The metallic trend represents the rise in industry and technological development. This unconventional fabric is used to construct many innovative pieces such as the ones displayed above.
(From Left: Derek Lam, Doo.ri, Proenza Schouler, Alexander Wang)
Winter wardrobes traditionally consist of blacks or muted colors, but this season, designers commit a fashion faux-pas. Wearing white after labor day is now popular and encouraged. White is the color of purity and innocence. White clothes represent youth and hope. Hope that will perhaps be translated into the health of the economy.
~~These predictions are not set in stone, only branded into fabric. Though some fashion trends follow the status of the economy, I wouldn't look to clothes as the solution to our nation's problems. Fashion is simply here for people like me who can't understand the economy through other terms.
The "comfort" trend consists of thick cashmeres, blanket coats, and flannels to convey a sense of ease as the economy gradually restores and stabilizes. This cozy garb will make everything seem more calm and relaxed.
The "luxe" trend describes the use of expensive and lavish textiles. Tweed garments and structured suits are heavily featured on this season's runways. Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel revolutionized the tweed suit in the 1920s, a time of economic prosperity. With a growing interest in vegetarianism, leather and equally expensive faux leather share the spotlight in many fall collection. There are also many garments that were hand-beaded or encrusted with jewels.
The metallic trend represents the rise in industry and technological development. This unconventional fabric is used to construct many innovative pieces such as the ones displayed above.
(From Left: Derek Lam, Doo.ri, Proenza Schouler, Alexander Wang)
Winter wardrobes traditionally consist of blacks or muted colors, but this season, designers commit a fashion faux-pas. Wearing white after labor day is now popular and encouraged. White is the color of purity and innocence. White clothes represent youth and hope. Hope that will perhaps be translated into the health of the economy.
~~These predictions are not set in stone, only branded into fabric. Though some fashion trends follow the status of the economy, I wouldn't look to clothes as the solution to our nation's problems. Fashion is simply here for people like me who can't understand the economy through other terms.
Saturday, October 13, 2012
New Blog Format
Now that we're allowed to write our blogs about anything, I have decided to start a style blog. Since I can already sense some eye-rolling, I am going to try to present my posts in a different way. I was thinking of maybe interpreting current events and political trends through fashion and photographs. Since this week is the first week, this post is mostly going to be introductory. I get so many questions in the hallway about my clothes and my style and I'm taking this opportunity to explain this to everyone.
Here are some frequently asked questions:
Where do you buy your clothes?
There's no one place that I always go to shop. I like to keep expanding my horizons and going to new stores. I like to shop when I'm on trips because clothing is the one functional souvenir. Yes, I do shop vintage and I do shop at thrift stores. Now before labeling me as a hipster, there are some things I want to address. I think that hipster is actually an insulting term. Rather than connoting "cool" or "interesting", I think that people use the word "hipster" mostly to describe people that are arrogant about their clothes or music. There are many valid reasons to shop at thrift stores, including cost, and uniqueness, and I think that a reasonable portion of my wardrobe comes from consignment stores and thrift stores. On occasion, I will go to a high end store or a department store to buy pieces that are classic and that I can wear for a long time.
Why do you dress up everyday?
Out of all the questions people ask me, this is probably the most common. Some people express themselves through art. Others take up a musical instrument. I don't see how my clothes can't speak for me in the same way. I dress up because I can. I like to look nice everyday. I like to put in a bigger effort. People might not always like my style, but that doesn't mean that I can't.
Who/What is your inspiration?
My style is greatly influenced by music. I would describe my style as polished with an element of rock-n-roll. I like structured blazers and dresses, but I have a soft spot for leather and studs. I take note of interesting outfits I see on the street as well as at concerts and even in scenes from movies. I do follow the various fashion weeks, but I would rather follow my own style than what everyone else is wearing.
That's all for now. After this post, I will launch my new format. Until next time!
Here are some frequently asked questions:
Where do you buy your clothes?
There's no one place that I always go to shop. I like to keep expanding my horizons and going to new stores. I like to shop when I'm on trips because clothing is the one functional souvenir. Yes, I do shop vintage and I do shop at thrift stores. Now before labeling me as a hipster, there are some things I want to address. I think that hipster is actually an insulting term. Rather than connoting "cool" or "interesting", I think that people use the word "hipster" mostly to describe people that are arrogant about their clothes or music. There are many valid reasons to shop at thrift stores, including cost, and uniqueness, and I think that a reasonable portion of my wardrobe comes from consignment stores and thrift stores. On occasion, I will go to a high end store or a department store to buy pieces that are classic and that I can wear for a long time.
Why do you dress up everyday?
Out of all the questions people ask me, this is probably the most common. Some people express themselves through art. Others take up a musical instrument. I don't see how my clothes can't speak for me in the same way. I dress up because I can. I like to look nice everyday. I like to put in a bigger effort. People might not always like my style, but that doesn't mean that I can't.
Who/What is your inspiration?
My style is greatly influenced by music. I would describe my style as polished with an element of rock-n-roll. I like structured blazers and dresses, but I have a soft spot for leather and studs. I take note of interesting outfits I see on the street as well as at concerts and even in scenes from movies. I do follow the various fashion weeks, but I would rather follow my own style than what everyone else is wearing.
That's all for now. After this post, I will launch my new format. Until next time!
Monday, October 1, 2012
Update-Dystopian Trailer
Currently, our group is in the script-writing process for our trailer. We have scripted about 30-45 seconds of our film. Our dystopia is meant to criticize how society puts pressure on youth to be the best. The shots in the trailer are split apart with narrations and text. The opening shot is a rack focus, showing a student writing down notes and shifting to a view of a quasi-robotic teacher reciting the textbook. Our figurehead is Julia, the "smartest" girl in school. We show our main character, Matt and his girlfriend, Jessica having a conversation about her and there is a poster of the background of Julia with her GPA on a card. We show establishing shots of the setting at the school. The hallways are dark and silent and there is tickertape around the school that displays the highest and lowest GPAs of the students. We also include a shot that pans across the students in the classroom as they yawn and show signs of exhaustion to enhance the nightmarish state. Students are kept at school all day and all night. We view a phone conversation with Matt explaining to his parents that he has to stay at school at night to study. The climax of our hypothetical movie occurs when Matt overhears the principal giving answers to Julia. We see Matt telling this to Jessica and Jessica is shell-shocked. That is all we have written so far in our script. Eventually, our catalyst will be Jessica's suicide. We will see Matt undergo a change in attitude after this occurrence. Hopefully we will finish our script soon so we can start to work on the logistics of filming this trailer. We asked two teachers as well as the principal to participate in this trailer and hopefully we will be able to make do with limited resources.
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