Maison Margiela Partners With H&M

Have name brands and high end fashion become too available? If so, will this decrease the desire to possess- and even the supply and demand for it? 

For the past year or so there have been a lot of collaborations with high end fashion designers and mainstream clothing stores. H&M first paired up with Versace in 2011, and the informal debut was during Kanye's performance on the runway at Victoria Secret's Fashion Show. His bomber jacket with the staple Versace print on the sleeves was quite the piece. Not long after, the craze for Versace and for H&M was on the rise. I always wondered, with a man like Kanye West and how he presents himself we all know he takes pride in his "exclusive" high end image. So, why doesn't he mind wearing a $129 jacket that he knows everyone else will also (Or does he care)? 

This year, Maison Martin Margiela has paired up with H&M for their collaboration. At the launch party, celebrities in attendance ranged from Alexander Wang, Sarah Jessica Parker, and of course, Kanye West. The pieces, from men's sneakers and jackets to women's dresses and blouses, are nothing less than amazing. Looking through the look book, nothing is more than $500, which is, for lack of a better phrase, a bargain sale for such a renowned fashion designer. With this being said, is the outcome of the collaboration going to be more than a huge hit for H&M, will it be a signifier of less exclusivity for Margiela? I personally think what makes high-end fashion so classified in its caliber is the mere fact that the pieces are very particular and rather limited. It allows the line to remain in high demand because collectively, we as humans enjoy having what others don't. Kanye West embodies this desire. 

I hope to see some progression for Margiela within this year of collaboration, because his work is outstanding. If I could afford it, I would be a young Kanye myself, showing off rare pieces and basking in every moment. However, if such collaborations for H&M continue, what is the outlook on high end fashion vs. mainstream? Is this the beginning of fusion and somewhat equality, or will hierarchy continue to reign in the fashion world? 

- Olivia Khoury

Best of Luck on Finals!

Greetings Harayans!

On behalf of our executive board, we would like to thank all of our Harayans who have shown us love and support this semester and who have been to practically every event and service initiative from Project Hype to the Jumpoff! Next semester we will be hosting many events, including the Jumpoff Pt. 2, our annual Black and White Ball, DreamGirls, and much more so stay tuned for more information! 

We understand that this is finals week and academics come first, but if you are available this Friday, December 14, 2012, at 5:00 pm we will be shooting a promotional video for the Jumpoff Pt. 2, which will take place on Friday, January 25, 2013! If you would like to be a part of the video please email us at harayastj68@gmail.com for more information. 

We wish you the best of luck on finals and Happy Holidays!

Hurricane Sandy Benefit Concert

For one-night-only, a star-studded cast of music industry’s most valuable players will be gracing New York City’s legendary arena, Madison Square Garden, to put on a benefit concert for Hurricane Sandy!  This event, officially tagged the 12.12.12 concert, will be featuring performances from Billy Joel and Paul McCartney to Alicia Keys and Kanye West.  If you haven’t guessed already, the show will be going down this Wednesday, December 12!  You have a chance to attend a viewing of this benefit concert for free—yes FREE!

Many people can recall the momentous Concert for New York City benefit that took place weeks after September 11, 2001 in honor of New York Fire Department and New York Police Department’s first responders, their families, those lost in the attacks and those in recovery.  Well, the same organizers of that event are putting on the benefit concert for families affected by Hurricane Sandy’s wrath.  This benefit is expected to be a remarkable event in history and it’s happening right here in New York City!   All proceeds will directly benefit Hurricane Sandy victims through the Robin Hood Foundation.  

You don’t have to worry about this performance costing you a single penny, as selected movie theatres in hurricane-affected areas will be screening the show live for free with complimentary snacks!  Because tickets are distributed on a first come, first serve basis, it’s advised that you contact the listed movie theatre to ensure your seat at the screening! 

Additionally, the concert will be broadcast globally!  For one magical night, the United States and international television stations, Clear Channel radio stations and premier websites, such as YouTube and Yahoo, will be broadcasting the event worldwide.  Event producers James Dolan, John Sykes and Harvey Weinstein expressed their anticipation in this disclosed statement: "The live simulcast of this historic benefit concert in movie theatres will provide a welcome opportunity for those people still recovering from the devastation to have an enjoyable and a much-needed night out. Seeing this incredible all-star lineup on the big screen and hearing it in surround sound will certainly make for a memorable evening."

All in all, victims still recovering from Sandy will be able to experience a well-deserved night out to forget about their troubles and rock out with their favorite musicians!  Spread the word; you won’t want to miss out!  To check out the movie theatre locations visit this website: http://www.121212concert.org/watch#section-5 

Did You Say Etsy?

Do you like vintage apparel, exclusive artwork, great deals, and one-of-a-kind garments?  If you’re answer is yes, I have three words for you—Etsy, Etsy, Etsy! 

Etsy is a fabulous online marketplace where thousands of artists, designers and crafters sell exclusive goodies for great prices!  As you enter the wonderful world of Etsy, you are sure to come into contact with designers from all ends of the earth selling funky hand-made items, as well as contemporary accessories.  With Christmas right around the corner, Etsy is the one-stop-shop you’re looking for.  One more thing, the excitement doesn’t stop there—Etsy is taking on New York City!

The Etsy Holiday Shop, which opened last Thursday, will be featuring 200 dashing boutiques exclusively hand-picked by the Etsy community.   This is a great experience for first time shoppers as well as loyal Etsy fans!   You can look forward to chic, trendy and even indigenous items derived from the bustling streets of Barcelona all the way down to the pavements of Brooklyn!   Etsy will also be bringing a refined group of gift experts that will be of assistance to shoppers searching for the perfect Christmas gift. 

If you’re an artist or crafter looking for a way to make money and are interested in becoming a part of the Etsy family, Etsy sellers will be at the store dishing the deets on what their job entails and how they create their masterpieces!  In-store events, such as lectures, tastings, entertainment and learning workshops, will be featured each day.    

Don’t miss out on this perfect opportunity!  The Etsy Holiday Shop is located at 131 Greene Street in SoHo.  The Shop is open from 10 am to 10 pm.  The last day will be this Saturday, December 8, 2012.  If you can’t make it to the store, be sure to browse the website—you will get lucky.

- Brittany Spell

Artists on The Rise: Ashley Germain

As the weeks of school are winding down, and the stress is growing its good to know that there are hard new mix-tapes and albums to help us pull through.  Though they came out last week, and oh how I missed writing to you guys over the Thanksgiving break, these two artists are just too good to skip over.  Yes yes, I’m talking about Fab and French Montana!  Fabolous’ The Soul Tape 2 overall was a dope piece by our New York native rapper. Features from J. Cole, Wale, Trey Songz and Joe Budden help the mixtape bang, my favorites are “Louis Vuitton”, “Beauty” and “Diced Pineapples”.  French Montana’s Mac & Cheese 3 got a few mixed views from some STJ students, some saying it banged from beginning to end, others saying they can only handle French on a feature. Personally, I thought it went pretty hard, especially with his long list of features from artist like Ross to Mac Miller, the mixtape was definitely diverse.  Even though I think Mac & Cheese 2 was a better mix, you have to give it to French for pulling out a great piece of work after months of delays. 

All semester long I’ve brought to you the talent of our favorite mainstream and underground artist, but never a local STJ Student; until now.  Ashley Germain is the beautifully talented singer songwriter of the Class of 2015, with a voice that chills.  The first time I heard Ashley sing was a Friday evening in Century Hall a few of weeks ago while a couple of friends and I were all in a heated conversation about the music industry.  When we all calmed down a bit we asked Ashley to sing us a song that she wrote, and when she did her voice silenced the whole room.  Her soulful full-bodied voice could hit all ranges, she went from hitting the highest of high notes to the sweet low notes of a painful love song.  Ashley is a force to be reckoned with.  Her moving voice is truly one of a kind, and her humble spirit will make you love her instantly.  While talking to her about music you can see its her passion, she loves to perform anything heartfelt by artists like Adele, Christina Aguilera or Amy Winehouse.  When I asked her what her biggest career aspiration was she replied, “I just want a lot of people to appreciate my music, if anything. I also want to win one Grammy Award, just one.  Not to say that’s where my success ends, but that’s one of my goals right now.”  Well I think its achievable for her and so many more artists here, I believe the talent at St. John’s has no limits. 

Ashley is currently working on her first major project, which will be available in December, keep a look out on her Youtube channel http://www.youtube.com/user/BasHlEYAsHley?feature=watch or SoundCloud.  Below is her recent cover of Alicia Keys’ “Brand New Me”. 

Recent Releases
Alicia Keys – Girl On Fire
Tyga – 187
The Soul Tape 2 – Fabolous
Mac & Cheese 3 – French Montana

What’s on my Replay
Lay Up – Meek Mill ft Jay Z, Rick Ross, Trey Songz
Absolute Assassin – Ab Soul
AK47- The Dream
W.T.F.I.M.L. – Chris Brown

Target First Saturdays

Target First Saturdays at the Brooklyn Museum attracts thousands to experience live music and performances, stunning exhibitions, art discussions, and film screenings—all for free!  First Saturdays at the museum has been a tremendous hit for many years, as I can recall attending it multiple times as a little girl.  Over the past 2 years, it’s become a hot spot for people of all ages! This Saturday, the Brooklyn Museum opens it’s doors for you to indulge in a wide range of culturally eclectic events and programs.  Here are a few interesting happenings going on this Saturday: 

Flex is King:  Flex is King is a raw, uncut documentary that takes a glimpse into the dance movement “flexing”.   Featuring flexing artists, Deidre Schoo and Michael Beach Nichols, the documentary takes on a candid, but inspirational melody, which ultimately highlights the beauty and precision of this art form.  Several clips will be exclusively shown this Saturday!  Additionally, this event will be followed by a Q&A session with the filmmakers and a live demonstration of flexing! Be sure to view the trailer here: http://vimeo.com/35915742

Soulful Tunes:  Maya Azucena is a talented singer-songwriter who will be gracing First Saturday visitors with her new album, Cry Love.  Ms. Azucena’s sound is reminiscent of Jill Scott.  Cry Love is smooth.  It’s groovy.  It’s soulful. 

Spit and Passion:  The author of Spit and Passion Cristy C. Roads will be discussing her new book about her struggle finding a balance her strong Cuban Catholic roots, and family, while discovering her “newfound queer identity”.   

Get Moving:  First Saturdays will be closing with a dance performance by L.O.U.D (League of Unreal Dancing).   L.O.U.D is a Brooklyn-based dance agency that features multi-talented performers that use dance to express individuality!  Most L.O.U.D performances are gritty, exciting dance battles that incite energy and exhilaration in audience members.  Expect a good time.        

- Brittany Spell

What to do in NYC: Black Friday Edition

To shop or not to shop, that is the question.  With Black Friday just a few days away, the level of anxiety and excitement across America is increasing by the second.  Black Friday is a highly anticipated event in many households across the nation and it looks like Black Friday 2012 will not disappoint!  Therefore, I’ve taken the time to cruise through several newspapers and websites looking for the best Black Friday sales happening not just in New York, but also the rest of the country. 

Urban Outfitters:  Urban Outfitter is infamous for selling overpriced goodies.   Lucky for us, Urban Outfitters is offering customers 50% off all sale items.  Whether the object of your desire is $7 or a $100, 50% off will do you justice!

H&M:  While H&M hasn’t released their sales for Black Friday yet, they have a Black Friday presale going on between November 19^th and 21^st.  They’re offering deals starting at just $7!  While many retail-clothing stores aren’t revealing what they’ll have in store, I know that several lucky men and women will score H&M’s desirable collab items with Versace and Maison Martin Margiela for terrific prices.  Additionally, there’s buzz that H&M will be dropping prices for many items to just $5—seriously!

Tommy Hilfiger:  Tommy Hilfiger just revealed their exciting Black Friday deals for 2012!  All items—I repeat—all items in the store will be 40% off and all purchases over $200 will receive an additional 25% percent off!  Do not miss out!

Victoria’s Secret:  I have good news for participants of Victoria’s Secret Black Friday sale last year!  Those amazing limited edition tote bags abundantly filled with beauty must-haves will again be given out to customers this year when at least $65 is spent!  Last year, the bag alone was valued at $70!  While Victoria’s Secret hasn’t revealed their deals for Black Friday, I am sure they will be worthwhile!  Additionally, if it’s anything like last year, customers shopping online will be given the opportunity to receive the limited edition totes as well!

Target:  Target is offering many drool-worthy items for phenomenal prices.  Target is the perfect place for Black Friday shopping if you’re looking for a tremendous amount of sales and a variety of items to steal—yes, steal!  The prices are so great they’re nearly a steal.  The three featured items on the website includes, the Canon T3 DSLR bundle originally $749.99 but now $499.99, the Nook Simple touch originally $99.99 but now $49.00, and the 4 GB XBox 360 Kinect Bundle originally $299.99 but now $199.99.  While these are all electronic goodies, Target will be offering deals for toys, entertainment, women apparel, men apparel, children apparel, home goods, furniture, Christmas items, and health and beauty products.  In short, if you’re heading to Target, you need to have a plan in place!  Visit the website to review ALL Black Friday deals! (http://www.target.com/c/target-black-friday/-/N-5q0f2)

Wal-Mart:  Wal-Mart promises “some of the year's best shopping values” this Black Friday 2012!  Much like Target, Wal-Mart is featuring a website page dedicated to revealing all of their well-calculated deals for consumers.  Check them out here!  (http://localad.walmart.com/Walmart/Entry/Flash?forceview=y&povid=cat1076614-env430434-module480045-lLink2&promotioncode=LA_Walmart-121123)  I think I have to agree with Wal-Mart when they say that they’re offering some of the greatest deals of the year because there are so many deals that are truly inexpensive!  To name a few, 1/4 Carat Diamond Hoop Earrings in Sterling Silver will be $38; Casio G-Shock watches will be $47, and Danskin pullovers for $6.  If you’re looking for electronics or kids toys, Wal-Mart is offering the greatest deals.  Be sure to peruse the website! 

Best Buy:  How can you not expect Best Buy to elevate the excitement and deliver some generous deals on the latest gadgets and electronics?!  Best Buy’s circular highlights include, the Canon PowerShot A2300 digital camera for just $79.99, a 10-Cup Drip Coffeemaker for $7.99, and a Samsung 28.0-Cu. Ft. French Door Refrigerator (Stainless-Steel) originally priced at $3,199.99 but now $1,899.99!  Now, I’m not sure if you’re looking for a refrigerator at this point, but I LOVE a good deal!  To view the rest, visit this website.  (http://blackfriday.com/stores/best-buy?store=best-buy)

- Brittany Spell