Reasoning Behind the Cut

Has many of you have noticed, I cut a lot of my hair off. And I'm not going to take this post to write about my decision for the change, but to hopefully use it in a broader way. My readers don't care about what I did to my hair, I'm not famous. I do want to share the grand spectrum of what this decision did for me and hope to inspire my audience. Onto the story!

I could give you the "I hated my hair," "new year, new me" excuses, but I think I'll take a cheesier approach by saying I wanted to be myself. Since leaving Syracuse and moving New York, even since I started this new major 15 weeks ago, I've changed. It's extremely obvious. It's my environment, my new friends, old friends and family that choose to accept this about me that allow me to feel comfortable with these changes. My wardrobe to my personality to my career choices have done complete 360's and to be honest I couldn't be happier with who I have become.

Now for the semester. I switched to the communication design one year program here at FIT to start anew. I've been challenged in mediums, projects and choices that I wasn't before. And I can say I made the right decision. I've met amazing and talented people that I will always be close with that have inspired me in unimaginable ways. I thank them for all they have done for me and continue to do. I got a new job as well at H&M. Not that it's a huge change, but it allows me more in house opportunities and freedom I wasn't given before. It's a place with nice people that accept my red hair and my style. They embrace the individual and their skills. I've had internship interviews and met amazing people this semester also. Lastly I now have my first apartment and permanent New York City address. I've made that move that will help me improve my art, my career and my life style. I found myself very stressed out over the pasted few months, but it was worth it.

The haircut was my version of a "finishing touch." Kind of a reward to myself for all I have accomplished in the big city. It's me embracing the person I have become and seeing who sticks by me and supports me through the challenges. I'm an artist, a nerd, a dork, a fashionista, a designer, the list goes on, but each characteristic is important to me. Overall I love it, I feel myself and it solved my top knot addiction.

Over the next few weeks I'll be sharing some of my work from the semester, new projects and of course more fashion. I hope you all enjoy it and continue to follow me in my adventures. I blog to record my journey and practice my craft. Enjoy the new stuff coming!

Photography: Megan Madden

- Mik

Little Machines by LIGHTS

For a little over a third of my semester, I worked on a final book for a typography class. We could chose a topic of our choice, which is great because you can choose something that really inspires you. I picked the lyrics from LIGHTS' new album, Little Machines. I did a cover, track list and lyrics from each song. We were only aloud to use minimal imagery, limiting us to really playing with type.
I took a 2D, Bauhaus design technique style with this piece. I'm extremely happy with the outcome!

I submitted it for the Art Inspired by LIGHTS' Little Machines contest and you can vote and comment on it here.

I'll be posting some more work the semester soon as the finals dwindle down! It's been a busy month so prepare for some artwork!
All work ©MikaylaMadigan

These Mom Jeans

Recently while work I noticed we had a pair of high rise boyfriend jeans in stock. Now the concept of  high rise boyfriend jeans can be easily simplified to the term mom jeans. There's a difference between regular high rise or natural waist jeans and mom jeans. High/natural rise pants are still tighter, either in the form of skinny or super skinny, while boyfriend jeans are loose and baggy adding high rise to that basically translates to the jeans your mom wore in the 90's. I high recommend these because they are extremely comfortable. They are boyfriend jeans on steroids.
There are so many ways to wear these just like styling other high rise pants. You can wear a cropped shirt, regular length tee, you can layer easily and be super comfy. Boyfriend jeans, especially these, are the key to achieving a loose, edgy, 90s look. The style of the 90s is on trend for fall more then ever and I must say it's a fun and creative style. It's loose, comfy, layered and little dark.
Here I chose to style them simply so you can see the jeans more. I paired it with a cropped sweat from Zara and some Steve Madden booties. Of course it's accessorized with a dark fall lip color.
Try these jeans, mine are from Hollister of course, and get cozy for fall!

P.S I highly suggest not getting your boyfriends opinion on them, he will hate them, I promise.

- Mik
Photography by Megan Madden

As of today,  blushmagfit.com is new and improved. With great new articles, videos, interviews and tutorials, Blush Magazines website has stepped up it's game. Thanks to a great team, a lot was accomplished and I thank them all.
I wanted to share the article I took on, which was contacting a friend and designer, Natalya Nyn. Here's my articles about Natalya, her company and some wonderful photos by Megan Madden.
Check out more amazing things from Blush Magazine's website by clicking on the link above!

Meet The Designer: Natalya Nyn of Toysyndrome

By Mikayla Madigan | Photography by Megan Madden

Natalya Nyn is a former FIT fashion design student from Russia. Toysyndrome is her completely original company, which focuses on the nostalgia, individuality, and fun of urban streetwear. Coming from a BFA program with a focus on evening wear and working at J. Mendal, Nyn felt like designing became too serious and she wanted to have fun with her work. Nyn created t-shirts, now sweatshirts and beanies as well, with small, plastic toy bugs, reptiles and aliens sewn on them. She also uses hand dyeing techniques to make colors and textures on some of her shirts.

These aren’t just randomly sewn on bugs; they organized and designed in a way that’s practical and artsy. The pieces are bold, fun and for someone with a young personality, such as Nyn herself. Since starting her own line she has made strides to make her company grow. She now works with a company to mass produce her orders and a freelance seamstress for custom orders. She’s had interviews with Refinery29 and Fashionista and been featured in Nylon. 

But the person who really helped her take off was Lena Dunham. Nyn’s story is that she saw the popular show Girls being filmed while she “casually ate her lunch nearby. Dunham noticed her shirt and Nyn ended up giving one to her, which Dunham then posted on Instagram. What really surprised Nyn was a message from the Fashionista editor with a link to the Season 3 trailer for Girls, which shows Dunham wearing a Toysyndrome shirt in an episode. Nyn calls it one her most exciting moments to date!

Nyn says that in the future, she’s thinking of creating a system for customers to customize their shirts online. And, she’s currently working on making little creatures of her own to find a home on one of her designs.

Nyn has become so successful since the first time we met only a year ago. From FIT to Lena Dunham’s Instagram and even a store in Dubai, Toysyndrome has expanded in a short period of time. It’s inspiring hearing success stories from former FIT students and knowing that there’s something out there for everyone. Her advice to current students is that throughout your career, you will get a lot of “no’s,” but with that will come one amazing “yes.” So never give up, have confidence, and believe in yourself. 

You can see more of Nyn’s collection at toysyndrome.com. Follow her on Instagram @toysyndrome and see her pieces in person at Patricia’s Boutique on Bowery Street.

Blush Magazine: Abercrombie Revolution

As many of you know, I'm web director for Blush Magazine at FIT. Besides working on the website, I also write for the print edition. Yesterday the Fall Issue was released to the stands on campus. Articles from makeup for glasses, fashion and technology and industry news. My article, entitled "Abercrombie Revolution," gives an overview on the issues and changes going on with the Abercrombie and Fitch company. Luckily I have my employee advantages and have seen a huge transition before my eyes. What is post has that the articles doesn't is three outfits, head to toe Hollister that shows a few new pieces. Enjoy the article and stop in stores to see more!

P.S This Friday @ 1pm on blushmagfit.com is the Blush Online Launch! Check it out and use #blushlaunch2K14 for a chance to win!

Abercrombie Revolution

By Mikayla Madigan | Photography by Megan Madden

“You’ve Changed, So We’ve Changed,” reads the new slogan hanging boldly across Aeropostle stores. Responding to a decrease in profits, Aero is just one of the many familiar fashion companies who are being forced to change their entire approach to reaching their target customers. Despite many stores’ willingness to recreate their image and regain consumer dedication, one company had been holding out on us. Abercrombie and Fitch, which had previously resisted change, has begun a brand evolution as of this year. Their style has gone from “SoCal” to ‘SoTrendy’, with new items that are bringing back the customer’s interest. 

Ten years ago, when many of us were in middle school, it was evident that the iconic moose or seagull was a symbol of status. Abercrombie and Hollister were the most frequented stores of “popular” tweens. Fast-forward to the present, and style preferences have pretty much done a 180. Now, teens and young adults have much more eclectic taste and these symbols no longer hold the key to the “in” crowd. 

So, what did journalists and marketers say Abercrombie had to do to stay relevant? Firstly, become more “on trend.” To determine what trends a company wants to produce, they send representatives across the globe in search of the latest trends. The problem with this method is that the trends Abercrombie had been catering to were already hanging in consumer’s closets. By the time Abercrombie got them on the floor, they were fading out. Secondly, ditch the logo. Customers no longer want a distracting moose stuck on their chest. It disrupts the overall look and is no longer the incentive to buy an item. And, lastly, lower those prices. Many shoppers feel that items like a Hollister or Abercrombie graphic tee are about double the price they would expect to pay. Taking note of these issues, the company is beginning to make changes in order to regain their profits and bring loyal customers back. 

Let’s take this summer at Abercrombie, in particular. Trends like palazzo pants, natural-waisted shorts, and shapely crop tops were introduced by the brand—and much earlier on in the season than in previous years. Black is also now one of the many colors they sell. Neither Hollister of Abercrombie ever sold black, and its inclusion is probably one of the biggest and most effective changes thus far. Abercrombie has also created the “Jean Lounge,” with their new “Best Fit Ever” jeans. They come in tons of styles and customers have the option to pick from washes that are destroyed, light, dark, and again, even black. 

The logo is now only on about 50% of the product. Its been left on certain graphic tees, mostly for men. Price wise, the stores always have a promotion going on, until new prices are decided on. For instance, jeans for $19.00! It’s an unheard of price for the Abercrombie of the past. Other recent changes include securing contracts with both Disney and Lucy Hale. Hollister in particular has Mickey, Minnie, and Star Wars tees and have released a SoCal and Lucy Hale collaboration. 

So, is there some hope for companies like Abercrombie and Fitch and Hollister, who were failing to hold consumer interest? It may be too soon to tell, but these huge changes may just be enough to save them. So, save your middle school moose tees—they may just become a vintage collector’s item.

Cropped Carpet Sweat

Black, High Rise Jeans

Cropped, Sleevless Tee

Boho Palazzo Pants

Long Sleeve, Crop Top

Natural Waisted Jeans

Fall Essentials For All Styles

Fall is the beginning of cozy sweaters, boots and those favorite jeans. There's a lot trending this fall: ponchos, wide legged trousers and big coats are just a few. But are they essentials for the season or just a trend? Not everyone can keep up with the latest fashions or even afford it. So I have compiled into one outfits the three things I think everyone, no matter the fashion interest, should have for this fall. Of course I wore it my own bold, edgy and confident way, but these pieces are so basic and versatile that they can accommodate any personal style.
The essentials for this fall are: big flannels, boyfriend jeans, combat boots and a dark lipstick. Two being classic items and one being the staple of the season.
Big flannels are an essential because they are cozy, colorful and easy to style. They can be worn unbuttoned, buttoned, tied around the waist or any creative way you can come up with. Any pattern of plaid is easy to style. Find one that fits your color palette and usual style.
Boyfriend jeans made their way into stores this past spring and faded into the summer. With a surprise come back these baggy, denim pants are everywhere. They are comfortable, loose and stylish in so many ways. You can style boyfriend jeans in literally ANY way. I do suggest being careful when purchasing a pair. Try them on! They are a completely different fit, your normal jean size might not the same in a looser fit. Also if your aren't overly adventurous with your style go for a regular pair as opposed to destroyed ones. Or if you want want options you can purchase both styles. Boyfriend jeans are definitely the hot item for this season.
Combat boots have been on trend for about fives years now, changes and molded into different kinds. They are a shoes we wear constantly and probably have in a few different neutral colors. We go through pairs until they are destroyed and get the next pair to continue the cycle. Combat boots go with anything as well. Jeans, legging, even sweatpants can go with them. The neutral colors allow them to be worn with a variety of colors, patterns and textures. If you don't have combat boots, consider investing in a good pair because they will become a favorite.
A dark lipstick really adds some contrast to your look. It's sultry, a little sexy and bold. A popular one is Train Bleu by Nars. I'm wearing Homegirl by Kat Von D, which is a similar color to Nars, but a couple dollars cheaper. This deep red, maroon color goes with a fall color palette and heads right into winter.
These are my fall 2014 essentials! Try them out and you can share them with me. Here's my look with all the basics.

- Mik
Photography: Megan Madden

Girl Power!

On Tuesday October 7th I went to see the girl behind the oh so popular chorus to Iggy Azalea's "Fancy," Charli XCX. Her tickets were $30 and I wasn't about to pass that up, even though I went alone. The whole had this vibe on Girl Power ( Charli said it much more obscenely, but this blog if definitely PG13). I left the venue with this awesome feeling of empowerment, confidence and " heck yea!" attitude. Let me explain:

First up was Femme, I wasn't too into music so let's skip her. Next was Elphnt, this mysterious, Swedish solo artist that literally kicked butt. Singled handedly she got a crowd of people who have never heard her pumped up. She even walked on stage with a beer in her hand. Elphnt had this rapping, deep and kind of Jamacian voice that was really cool. Definitely check her out!
Charli then came out. Her theme was prom, so the room was filled with banners and balloons. This is where it get really girl power oriented. Her all girl band, Charli included, came out in black cheerleading uniforms with the title of her new album, "Sucker" across the front. The whole thing was very "Clueless" and 90's. Big barrettes, Baby Spice buns and thin braids set in your face. Along with some platforms and tennis shoes. As Charli performed she went nuts, I'm talking Miley Cyrus without all the props. She flashed the crowd, I saw her butt more then I needed to and she danced so hard, yet her tiara never moved an inch. I was at a 1990's prom with so crazy people!

Leaving the concert I had this scary amount of confidence, like I could be dangerous and awesome. Long story short here's my outfit featuring my Charli XCX "Sucker" concert tee, H&M joggers and Urban Outfitter's army jacket. I felt I could dress however, be bold and be confident. Charli's music isn't everyone, but I think her open and shear confidence is something everyone can take from her. It's okay to crazy, fun and bold. Everyone deserves to be a little bit of a bad ass.

If you're looking for a tune to go all 90's dance party to, try Chari XCX's new single London Queen!

- Mik
Photos by Megan Madden

Getting Kind of Grunge

It's been over a week since I have posted and I have to say, I missed it. It was a tough week! After taking a long weekend Upstate I mistakenly got behind on work and that included the blog. Getting behind for the first time in forever taught me one thing, NEVER DO IT. There will be stress, frustration, tears (it was bad), etc. I had probably four major projects due this week and I was no prepared for the overload. It led me to feel like getting a little grunge!

Let's be real, 90's grunge was an amazing time for fashion and a huge inspiration for me. While I'm an outgoing and happy person, the whole style just draws my attention. The mood of grunge certainly went with my mood the whole week. That's what fashion does; lets you express yourself.

I wore a "rock & roll" Urban Outfitters tee, Hollister maxi skirt with black tights underneath, my acid wash jacket and quilted Doc Martens. Beauty wise I added Kat Von D "Homegirl" lipstick. I felt the part for sure.

Take it from this weeks breakdown, get head so you don't explode your head. Even though some sweet fashion came out of it.

- Mik
Photos: Megan Madden

Lights: Little Machines

While I love sharing my fashion and outfit ideas, sharing my other personal favorites I hope will be just as inspiring! Today, September 23, 2014, is the release of LIGHTS' new album; Little Machines. LIGHTS is like an electro-pop, singer songwriter from Canada. And she's one of the realest human beings I think I've ever seen.  I'm admittedly obsessed with her, but I like to call it "dedicated."
She's been my favorites artist since I was fifteen. She's ultimately inspiring and a great model.  She reminds me everyday to enjoy life, learn from life and to be yourself. LIGHTS is proof that you can build a brand just based on who you are. Her music captures who she is and what she's feeling. I could go on about LIGHTS, but I'll let you listen for yourself.

Click here to listen to her single "Up We Go"

On Monday,  I chose to wear her most recent shirt she made for the announcement countdown of Little Machines. With one day until the album release I felt it was super appropriate! I personally own five LIGHTS tee shirts that I've acquired of the five years of my obsession.  I also incorporated other pieces that LIGHTS has in her style, my cargo jacket and brown combat boots.

Boots from Target
Jacket from Urban Outfitters

You can see more of her merch at iamlights.com
And check out her instagram: @lightsy

- Mik
Photography: Megan Madden