Not Your Typical British "Boy Band"

...That's for sure. While they are no One Direction (praise mary!), Various Cruelties, stand on their own platform well beyond the realm of mediocre sing alongs. Hailing all the way from London, these lads have created a sound that is all their own, which they describe as a "mod, goth, pop incarnation," with a little Motown flare, or what I refer to as damn good music . Like a good majority of their American fans, there single "If It Wasn't For You" first struck a note with me during a commercial break for Zales. As I ran to the kitchen to get more Flaming Hot Cheetos, I was struck by a few perfect verses coming from my television speakers. Of course, I did what any normal, Generation Y, music junkie would do— I Shazam'd. Obviously. And that is where our story begins... 

After this mind-altering epiphany, I went straight to iTunes to download their self-titled album (as I suggest you do, right now!) and I'll tell you it's not everyday I find myself loving track after track on a single album, but Various Cruelties is the exception. No lie when I tell you, I spent my entire winter break with these guys on repeat. It only took me five nights of singing these songs in the shower, that I learned every word. They're contagious in the most magnetic way. A few more of my favorites are "Beautiful Delirium", "Dry Your Tears", "Neon Truth" and their Ian Brown cover of "F.E.A.R." Just give them a listen, and I know you'll be as hooked as I am. 

I got the chance to see them live at Webster Hall in New York just last month with my best friend, and to say they were epic would be an understatement. Every note, every verse, every second was perfect. It was as if the crowd was watching and hearing the music unfold in front of their eyes; it was electric. To share the night with such an intimate, loyal crowd of fans was the best part. Mark my words, these guys will be playing Madison Square Garden one day soon, this is only the beginning. 

Not only are the guys (from left to right Dean, Beanie, Liam, and Adam) so incredible at making music but are just as equally amazing in person! Thank you so much for making New York one of your first US shows! Oh and sorry to Adam, my drunk photographer could barely hold himself up, let alone my phone. 

See you next month in DC at Jammin Java!


Make sure to check out the Various Cruelties' facebook page, follow them on twitter @v_cruelties, and check them out on their US tour this April/May (dates/tickets here). You won't regret it.

I love you, I do.
xxx

Concert Review: FUN. at Radio City!!

Check out my review on the Fashion Institute of Technology's student run newspaper, W27! Right here! The review is featured below, make sure to follow along all news on W27 Online!

“All the Pretty Girls” plus a few thousand more New Yorkers gathered last night at the legendary Radio City Music Hall to celebrate a night of musical madness with the indie-pop trio fun. on their 2013 World Tour. The night began with former Jack’s Mannequin frontman Andrew McMahon serenading the crowd with his passionate keyboard skills and intricate pop-punk melodies. At 9:18, the trio, keyboardist Andrew Dost, guitarist Jack Antonoff, and frontman Nate Ruess, hit the stage and opened the show with their hit, “Out On The Town,” from their newest album, Some Nights, setting off the night with a bang.

Fans of all ages hit the air with fists up high as the raw power of Ruess’s voice powered the hall of screaming fun. lovers from all five boroughs and beyond. The stage was magnified by a mirror stretching out towards the audience, allowing reflections of the flashing cameras to create the illusion of a concert under a sea of illuminated stars. The night continued with a taste of everything the band has to offer. Chart toppers from their sophomore album as well as their debut album, Aim and Ignite, came one after another, quick and powerful, including the fast-paced anthem, “It Gets Better,” which sets the tone for the band’s openly powerful stance on LGBTQ support.

Throughout the set, Ruess continually showed his unconditional appreciation for the audience with loving anecdotes and applauding between songs. This only added to the incredible essence of celebration and pure joy as the band danced from one end of the stage to the other. It felt as if a thousands of close friends came together to dance, sing and scream the life out of their lungs on this lighthearted night. The band’s hysterics and jokes on stage were highlighted during “Barlights,” as Ruess smacked Antonoff’s guitar mid song and the pick went flying into thin air, yet Antonoff continued into a wailing guitar solo played pick-less—the song never sounded so good.

This was a special night for fun. as it was their hometown show in the Big Apple and Ruess took the time to dedicate their ballad, “The Gambler,” to all their friends and family in the audience. The concert came to a climax with the beating of trashcans on a fire-spinning stage as fun. pounded the drums for their generational anthem, “We Are Young.” Just as the show was ending, it began again by the raw vocal power of the audience, and the band returned for a double encore of “Some Nights” and “Stars” with the guys sporting matching Knicks jerseys. Highlights included Ruess running up to show the balcony seats a fun.-loving good time, and the band surprising fans with their cover rendition of the classic, “You Can’t Always Get What You Want,” to bring the show to a mind-altering close. By the end of the night, fun. had poured their souls out to New York City, leaving their fans feeling infinite with a severe case of permanent goose bumps on a night no one in that room would ever forget.

SANTA BABY, Deliver me a man...

It's almost the MOST WONDERFUL time of the year, ya no?

 The strangest thing happened the other day, my dad texted me, "what's on your

xmas list?" Just a tad confused, I wasn't sure if it was normal or just plain pathetic for college [not so much] "adults" to still compile a Christmas (or which ever holiday you may be celebrating, kudos!) list. For a split second I questioned the tradition, shouldn't I be over having a list? I mean, who do I think I am, Eloise? Eighteen or eight, however, I decided, it's tradition for holy saint Nick's sake! Get your shit together. So, here ya go. A not so much "Christmas list" but a collage of some things I will be wishing for under the tree this year, and there will hopefully be a man that looks a hell of a lot like Joseph Gordon Levitt, but I guess that should go in a list to the Gods, Santa isn't a miracle worker. 

So, here it is. 8 things I'll be thinking about until December 25th. Just a note though, it's so much more fun shopping for the besties, the family, and the roommates, duh!

1. SNOW!!!

Like everyone, I too will be dreaming of a monstrously, white Christmas. There can never be enough snow for my liking, just hopefully not so apocalyptic.

2. Supreme Camo Beanie

The winter months are the time I LIVE in my beanies. Literally, my most favorite beanie from Free People is atop my head I'd say about 10 days a week, yes, you heard me right. *See here, here, oh and here too.* So, I really want to expand my beanie-horizon and pick up this baby to make me feel extra gangsta inside and out. 

Sadly, it's currently sold out, however, Supreme has some other amazingness, right here!

3. Free People Lace Bra

Okay, if there is one piece of lingerie in my drawer that I absolutely am in love with, it is this lace bra. Now, all I want is it in every color!!! Sorry, it makes me feel so giddy to think about. 

4. Marc by March Jacobs Fran Bag

Now, the one practical thing on my wishlist. I understand, the most obnoxious, but I am an avid believer that invest in one amazing bag, and it will last you a lifetime and basically pay for itself. So there you go, Mr. Jacobs knows what he's doing, and you will be mine this year, beautiful.

5. A Boyfriend of my very own

Ok, ok, ok... I know, just let me be pathetic for just one second. Every single year this goes on my new year's (never gonna happen) resolutions list, and luck is never a hot guy, so I figured Santa might bring me so love-beans this holiday season, maybe? Probably not. Hopefully, in the form of a Brooklyn boy.

6. Black High Top Converse

Classics, and so necessary. I think it's about time I threw mine away, although I must say they've lasted me a solid five years. My lowtops got me through high school, but it's time to raise the bar, I mean, this is college for heaven's sake.

7. Joseph Gordon-Levitt

Because, obviously. 

8. A Personalized Fashion Illustration

This is just a personal thing, anyone can take a quick instagram selfie, and trust me, I do, but there is something so captivating and unique about having a one of a kind painting of yourself to keep forever. I really would love one, but if not this year, I'm sure I could bribe my artsy roommate to make my little dream come true, because everyone likes cookies, I'll get on that. 

There you have it, folks! A completely random list of some things that would make me smile this holiday season, but even without any of these things the best gift will be going home for an entire month and getting some much needed rest and relaxation away from the city, which I'm sure will only last about a week till I miss the big N-Y-C, but we'll play it by ear.

Now the big question, what is on YOUR holiday wishlists this year? Leave me a comment, I'd love to hear from you guys!

xxx

IN VOGUE'S WONDERLAND

ALICE IN WONDERLAND 

Photographed by ANNIE LEIBOVITZ

Styled by GRACE GODDINGTON

If you know anything about me besides my obsessive love for a well-spun top knot, than you know of the monstrous space in my heart reserved for the mesmerizing pages of my favorite fashion magazines. It will never seize to amaze me how a well-written piece can keep your mind reeling or a beautiful editorial can leave you in a drooling gaze for hours. It's like a drug, only more powerful. Every month I cannot wait another second for the mail man to pour my load of magazines into my microscopic mailbox. Now, of course once I wrestle with the old lock and break a sweat, or five trying to pull them all out into my arms, I'd say the vast majority of the ten or so are crinkled, bent, or torn but, they are here, they are mine. After months of planning, writing, shooting, and editing the blood, sweat, and tears all all of the editors, photographers, writers, and creative geniuses is finally at my doorstep, waiting for me to rip them open and feed my fashion-appetite. It's quite a beautiful thing, really.  With that being said, my all time favorite editorial spread that I want to share with all of you comes straight from American Vogue, the December 2003 issue. It tells the story of Alice's journey in Wonderland, with a full cast of fashion influentials and legends as the lead characters, from Tom Ford, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Donatella Versace. Pure genius, I'm aware. And of course, it just wouldn't be complete without a little Lagerfeld action, yes, you know who I'm talking about, Sir Karl himself. Or John Galliano as the Queen of Hearts, ridiculous yet so necessary.

Take a look, just make sure you have something to catch your drool, you'll need it. Trust me.

 Don't you just wanna go lay in a pasture in a couture now? I feel ya, damn you bipolar winter, damn you.

 What I would do to get my hands on this issue. You will be in my hands one day. One day, very soon, I'm sure of it. C'mon ebay, work your wonders baby.

Stay sweet, and stay warm for goodness sake!

xxx




All photo credit from TrendLand- right here!

BLINK 182 x AMERICAN RED CROSS!

Now that Sandy's wrath has come and passed, it's time to build back up what she has left behind...

As homes are being returned to power, grocery stores are being restocked, and life is slowly starting to get back to normal for the lucky amongst us all on the east coast, there are still so many left with the reality of detriment that Sandy left behind to our trains, homes, lives, and spirits. This is the time to be self-less and keep on keeping on to help each other during this rough time. 

There is so much you can do, help your neighbors, help your friends, help those you may have never met that are in need of a clean-up or simply someone to be there. 

As an avid, 90's alternative rock junkie, Blink-182 is still, and will always be the greatest band in the entire world in my eyes so this afternoon I was tweeted a link to a blink t-shirt fundraiser that will be donating 100% of the proceeds to the American Red Cross to help hurricane victims up and down the East Coast. So, if you have the funds, they're only a near $20 each, stock up on some "East Coast Pride" Blink tee's for yourself and your friends. 

All Blink-182 t-shirts can be purchased here and you can feel good that what ever part of the world you are living in, you have given to help those that are trying to make due during these trying times.

Don't want a tee?

Here's the link to the American Red Cross webpage where you can donate what you can to help those persoanlly victimized by Hurricane Sandy. Also, Should you wish to, you can simply text REDCROSS to the number 90999 to donate on the go.

Thanks so much everyone!

All my love to those who continue to move forward.

xxx

PRABAL GURUNG x TARGET COLLABORATION

BIG NEWS, FASHIONISTAS! 

Luxury designer, Prabal Gurung (pronounced Prub-ble Ger-rung) who also happened to be a guest speaker this weekend at Teen Vogue Fashion U in New York City has officially announced his clothing and accessories collaboration with Target! All us fashionistas on a budget can now take a big sigh of relief as price points will range from $19.99-$199.00, does it get much better? I think not. The collection will debut in Target stores around the country on February 10, so get your credit cards ready, polish your comfiest mob rushing flats, and prepare for an influx of modern glamour and beauty to take over everyone's favorite, Tarjay, in stores very soon!

Prabal Gurung (@prabalgurung) with Teen Vogue's Fashion Director, Gloria Baume at his seminar with over 500 aspiring fashion editors, designers, stylists, and fashion industry professionals. 

Look at you, working that brown carpet, sir. Looking good!

Here are a few of my favorite looks from his current and previous collections so you can really get a taste for the perfection that will finally be available to his wider, very much awe-struck audience come this winter, just in time for the warmer, brighter months!

Spring 2013 RTW Collection:

Vivid metallics, a new age of menswear, and the perfect amount of ruffles.

Resort 2013 Collection:

Bright, bold colors, geometric radiance, and structural elegance at its best. 

WHO IS READY, NOW? Can I get an AMEN to the fashion gods?

Now, I'm curious, what are your opinions on these type of so called "fast brands" in stores such as J. Crew, Target, and H&M? Do you think it's almost a rite of passage for younger designers? Or do you think they should stick to their typical craft?

Comment and Let me know!

Check out Prabal Gurung: prabalgurung.com // @prabalgurung // facebook.com/prabalgurung

xxx

(Teen Vogue Fashion U Photos taken from Zimbio.com, right here)

(Prabal Gurung Collection Photo taken from Vogue.com, right here & here)

TEEN VOGUE FASHION U: DAY #1

I could NOT keep those darn paps off me today at Teen Vogue's very own Fashion University held at Hudson Theatre and TV's Conde Nast office. It was a day filled with a million fashion-obsessed girls who all share the dream of making it in the industry, long lines, stampedes of teenage fashionistas sprinting to get the best seats (I'm not even exaggerating, I fell three times), amazing industry influentials, and lots and lots of industry talk. Let's just say it was an amazing first day, and I can't wait to go back tomorrow! Let's just say I was photographed, gifted some amazing freebies, and was told I look like Leandra Medine! It was just as amazing, if not more, than it sounds. This experience really reassured me that moving to New York City to pursue fashion is the best decision I could have ever made towards moving closer and closer to my ambitions and career goals. Three cheers (mock-tails of course!) to Teen Vogue for putting on such a great day of events and making all of the fashion-obsessed boys and girls from across the country that our dreams are well within reach. We salute you. Thank you so much, from the bottom of my oxblood-red, glitterized heart.  

Demi Lovato's November 2012 Cover! I really loved her spread and how naturally and effortlessly she was shot, it was a vintage-urban feel that left me mesmerized. Have you picked up your copy? After today I now have three! Time to get- Inspiration boarding!

The legend herself, Vogue's creative Director, Grace Coddington, literally graced us with her presence this morning and told all her worshippers all about how she got started in the industry and shared some of her amazing work in Vogue. She truly is extraordinary. I cannot wait to read her new book, Grace: A Memoir, when it gets delivered to my doorstep just next month! Have you pre-ordered your copy yet? You can right here. Trust me, this is a must read. She is so inquisitive and classic, it was an honor to be in her presence this morning, it almost didn't feel real. 

Meet my newly blonde bff, Ms Erika Bearman aka Oscar PR Girl! Her talk was my favorite seminar of the year, and I got a front row view of her true radiance and beauty! She was mesmerizing to listen to, and I hope to meet her again. Who else can rock a velvet maxi like her? Exactly, no one can. 

Even fashionistas have to eat every now and then (unless your me, because I never STOP eating!) But for lunch today I went for a chicken salad sandwich with dried cranberries and celery and a refreshing passion tea! So yum, so so yum! Can I get another?

Last seminar of the day was with the amazing Teen Vogue Editorial team! Do I even have to explain? They are so MAJOR and today really just reminded me why I am where I am, that my dreams aren't as far away as I may think, and that I can do what I love with a whole lot of ambition and initiative.

THE OUTFIT

Today I woke up and thought: Let's mix every possible texture in my closet and mix it all together to a mess of an outfit that I just so happen to be in love with...

Basically for this day long fashion crazed, fun-filled day I went with a look that is one I feel really defines my personal style and my personality. Which is perfection because when you're surrounded by fashion influentials and fellow fashionistas from across the country it's good to show that you have a strong point of view, and in my case a bright, fun, yet chic aesthetic when it comes to fashion. Here I really was channeling my inner Man Repeller with this furry, almost obnoxiously loud teal and yellow palette combination. Because who doesn't love a good ruffle and nice shag? So the look is really prep girl meets motorcycle gang, and I'm kind of obsessed. A good lace can make you feel so girly and chic, yet throw in some leather and chains, and you can really call yourself a package deal. Vroom Vroom. As you've probably noticed I was not rocking THE MESSY BUN this sunny afternoon (GASP!) and I actually took the time to tame the beast atop my head, 2 hours, and 5 different cremes later. This is a special treat for you new readers, yes, Alex does in fact put in some hairy effort, but only on rare occasions. I figured Teen Vogue deserved this honor, because it truly is just that an honor. You may now bow down to my horse mane, and chant that the bun makes an exclusive return TVFU Day #2!

Teal Shag Sweater- H&M, Similar here!

Neon Ruffle Bib- H&M, Similar here!

Vintage Sheer Lace Dress- ALICE by Temperley, similar here!

 Leather Moto Boots- H&M, Similar here!

Check out all things TEEN VOGUE FASHION U on Teen Vogue's website!

xxx

THE FASHIONISTA(O) RETREAT

Tuesday morning. It's 9:00am. I am coffee deprived & wide-eyed as I listen patiently to the voice of my professor who is unconsciously aware of the state of wonderland he is sending me back into. Fiddling around with the keyboard, I subconsciously find my way to check my email to look forward to all the mail I don't have until I see it in capital, bold letterhead, CONGRATULATIONS. Now, normally that subject line would head straight for the junk mail as it usually leads down the crushed hopes of a iPad 10 that I have won or learning about a dead relative who has left me an African fortune, but not this one. This one was major; this one was from Teen Vogue. Fashion University had accepted me, HOLY CRAP. In the midst of a room full of classmates I have known for little over one week, there was no one to share my excitement with for the duration of the next three hours but hey, my inner future-fashion-editor was dancing around her office, throwing papers in the air, and blasting "I'm walking on sunshine!!" through her jukebox app. It was news; it was THE news. The first step, well technically the second MAJOR step (as I consider FIT the first), towards defining my future in this industry. This was it; this is IT. Now if you'll excuse me I have a closet to attend to, as I only have two months to find outfit perfection, a blink of an eye in fashion time. 

Check out the official Teen Vogue FashionU website here for all the dets!

(A few photographs taken for my Teen Vogue FashionU application)

Hello Gorgeous, I'll be seeing you this fall!

XOXO,

Alexandra Victoria