FIDM Student Blog: Michelle Smith

Taking a Stand Against Negativity

“Fashion Design? Wow, good luck with that.”

“So, you have like, no life, right???”

“What's your back up plan? I mean, uh, no offense!”

“You know, I could do the same thing without having to major in it.”

Enough! I'm sure everyone in the Fashion Design major can agree with me, stop with the negativity! Yeah, the fashion industry is TOUGH, and it's COMPETITIVE. And studying for it here at FIDM is A LOT of work, that includes A LOT of time and effort. But, so what? It weeds out the passionless, the weak. I see upcoming challenges and smile, thinking to myself, “Bring it on. I got this.” I'm not your typical “fashionista”, and I do not intend to fade away into the sea of starving artists. This has been a dream of mine since infancy. Literally, I was in my mother's womb and I was dreaming away all the fantastical ideas about the world and it's fancies. Always a dreamer, always a visionary, and now I'm ready to take all my imaginations and morph them into reality! Just the very thought of my destiny unfolding before my eyes  stimulates me beyond any chemically enhanced caffeine rush. There is just a certain zest about the industry that gives me a jolt of excitement that I do not want to live without, from drooling over each season's runway designers to styling my younger sister in inexpensive, mainstream stores (since that's all we can afford). I dress up everyday of my life, because I truly believe that one should outright refuse monotonous rituals and opt for constant magic at all times.

      However, there was a time in my life when I would toss on an oversized sweatshirt over my pajamas and debate whether to even comb my hair or not. It was a dark time when I felt ashamed of admitting my desires of fashion design, as I was too embarrassed of my own body to dress it. I have grown immensely since that then. It has become clear to me what my mission is. More than just creating huge, glamorous couture looks, I want my garments to have a special sort of sparkle to them. A sense of dazzling comfort that embraces one's self as it's slipped on. I expect myself to reach above the stars in my life. I want to go beyond simple boutique stores, or  just styling others. I want to create art, to embellish the miracle that is the human body!

I deeply believe that life is a beautiful gift we are only offered once, and therefore there is no reason to save any outfits or makeup-tricks for “special occasions”, as every day is special, no? I feel a huge sense of pride when a loved one , or even a stranger, comes to me and asks for my advice on apparel or life. It is because of my experiences and because of the person I have grown to become (and am still maturing into), that I know I am going to achieve my dreams and become a legend. I have never doubted myself, and I never will.

 

Loving vibes & virtual kisses,

Michelle

Style Mission for Winter 2009!

This winter I'm going for an entirely different silhouette. I'm not saying I am ready to throw away my tutu skirts and rid of ruffled blouses forever, but I'm thinking looser, V-neck shirts with tight latex leggings, bulky gold jewelry, rhinestones, sequins, faux fur vests, and high studded heels. Immaculate lipgloss, tousled hair, dark nails, and even darker eyes. It's cupcake unicorn princess rebelling because she can; still maintaining love and positivity, just instead of through pastel pink tulle dresses, it's through black lace and denim. It's a revolution in myself that would rather portray an image of a head strong sophisticate than a discombobulated child. It's about becoming a woman who will not take no for an answer, will never back down, and will conquer the world all while in 6” pumps. It's about maintaining a cool, seductive sort of appeal at all times. Resisting the urge to act like a giggling school girl, and speaking only with poise and intelligence. Plato once said, “Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something.” Becoming a mysterious seductress who will simultaneously break your heart, send you into wondrous inspiration, and leave you feeling bewitched. 

    Yes: Cat masks, love potions, cooking vegan food, foreign films, carrying a journal, reading the dictionary, lingerie slips for lounging, independence.
    No: Old ballet flats, chipped nails, junk food, word vomit, unnecessary distractions, being manipulated.

Inspiration in Words

When looked upon closely, language is fascinating. It's miraculous how we have been able to create individual words that all have their own definition, and based on how they are combined, can create entirely distinct meanings. That is why I constantly strive to aggrandize my vernacular (Ha!). Every now and then I hope to post a certain word that is just so fantastical, or just so bizarre, that I feel like it should be used more often in daily speech. Here's the first word:

Mamihlapinatapai – Noun
"A look shared by two people with each wishing that the other will initiate something that both desire but which neither one wants to start."

Romantic, no? How many times have you experienced mamihlapinatapai? :)

Loving vibes & virtual kisses,
Michelle

Staying Organized... How DO You Do It?

Bonjour mon amour! How's school going? I'm finishing up with week four right now and am attempting to balance everything going on in my life. Especially since Halloween equals an increase in social opportunities, which slightly conflicts with the multitude of studious obligations. Which leads me to ask all of you, how to you stay organized amid the chaos? I personally am a HUGE believer in the  power of To-Do lists. There is nothing more satisfying then sitting down at the end of the day and having the chance to cross out all the items you have successfully accomplished. I have even put in an order for a collection of Moleskin daily planners for 2010. I cannot wait for them to arrive! (Nerd, much?)

Loving vibes & virtual kisses,
Michelle

Tripping the Light Fantastic: Spring 2010 Runway Picks from Student Blogger Michelle

Spring 2010 fashion week brought some of the loveliest yet most eccentric trends to date. Here are just a select few that stood out to me, but there are definitely more to come soon. So you tell me, love it or hate it??

Chanel Clogs – Never thought the revival of clogs would be led by Karl Lagerfeld! I liked how the look was all pulled together, but I don't think I'll be strutting them about anytime soon. 

Zac Posen Neon – I'm always a fan of bright colors, it's like instant happiness! :)

Miu Miu Heels – I'm totally digging the wild prints and the general random inspiration. I wouldn't mind snagging a pair myself!

Alexander McQueen – Oh.My.Gawd. Yes! I don't even know where to begin on describing this collection. Oh, Mr. McQueen you never cease to amaze me! *drool*

Charlie Le Mindu Hair – This is just so bizarre that I can't help but love it! Of course, not sure how “ready to wear” this could be...nonetheless, it's certainly interesting to say the least!

Loving vibes & virtual kisses,
Michelle

An Update on the New Quarter from FIDM Student Blogger Michelle

Classes have just finished with week two, and already I can tell it's going to be intense! Unfortunately, I moved back to my hometown this quarter (though I do intend to return this winter!), and the 40-60 min commute is daunting. Thankfully I was able to get my first class on both Wednesdays and Thursdays at 12:00 PM, so I am able to avoid the initial morning traffic. I'm considering trying out the metro, but to be honest I'm a little nervous, though I suppose it would probably make the trip twenty times easier.

 

    On Wednesdays I have Industry Sewing and History of Costume. In case you aren't aware, you are given a TON of supplies on your first day at industry sewing, all which you will use pretty much right away. (Carrying my tool kit and a roll of muslin to a parking lot down the block was not exactly ideal haha). I purchased some floral print fabric for our final project today, which is to create a default blouse. Industrial sewing machines are intimidating as they are pretty monstrous compared to my quaint, little one back home, but I'm slowly adjusting. I'm definitely going to try and attend some sewing labs though!

    History of Costume is actually turning out to be one of my favorite classes. I'm a HUGE history nerd, and enjoy reading up on ancient civilizations and learning how societies and cultures once lived. I'm known for watching documentaries or sitting in the library with a stack of books on various topics. Now I get to do it for homework, but with a more fashion-focused twist. We have already been assigned three major projects that will be due in the next few weeks, but I'm getting organized now so hopefully I can resist feeling overwhelmed later.
    On Thursdays I have Textile Science of Fashion Design and Fashion Sketching II. Textile science is also a surprise favorite. I'm amazed at how quickly my mind is absorbing the information. (I actually contemplated what a baseball uniform would be made from while watching the Angels vs. Yankes game the other night!) It's just so crazy to imagine these TINY micron fibers are what come together to create fabrics, and depending on how they are put together, you get different results for your final garment. It's a simple idea that one hardly pays much attention to, but when you look into the science of it, it's positively fascinating.
    Finally I've gotten a chance to play with markers and clothes on my croquis! My teacher for Fashion Sketching II is wonderful! She she wants us to learn and perfect our skills, while helping develop our own personal style, truly making projects into art. I know I say this a lot, but I am so appreciative of being in a school that doesn't try to compromise individuality or force us into conformity.
    Anyway, overall my classes are amazing, but already are loading up on the work! I'll be sure to keep you up on my adventures! xxo

Loving vibes & virtual kisses,
Michelle

A Little Bit of Magic

 

Luella Spring 2010

Things that add magic into my life, or just plain make me smile:

 

-      Autumn weather! The clouds are finally approaching, and a breeze has begun to pick up... I love it! Cold weather always brings me lovely feelings that send me reminiscing into pleasant memories.

-      Anticipating the cold weather fashion. I *might* get a pair of jeans this season! I haven't worn denim in two years, so I'm a little hesitant.

-      Having my hair “kid approved.” The other day I was in the grocery store when a woman approached me with her daughter clinging to her side. “I'm sorry to bother you, but your hair is her favorite color and she really wanted a closer look,” she said with an embarrassed laugh. The little girl's eyes were so wide with fascination (and confusion, I'm sure), that I couldn't help but swoon. The three of us ended up having a darling conversation about cupcakes and Hello Kitty. Perfect, no?

-      Speaking of cupcakes.... How amazing are the jumbo cupcakes from Ralph's???!

-       Planning out my epic Halloween madness. Anyone else going to Knott's Scary Farm? (People are generally surprised to discover that I am quite the horror fan.)

-       Working on the elaborate sketches for my future tattoos. Every detail, color, and placement is symbolic in some way, and I cannot wait!

-      Experimenting with different makeup looks. Right now I've been playing with pastel eye shadows and loads of glitter, I call it my Fairy look~ hehe :)

-      Luella's Spring 2010 collection. UM. I die! (Fashion Week review coming soon!)

 

How about you, love? What is it lately that makes your heart skip a beat and makes your cheeks ache from grinning?

 

Loving vibes & virtual kisses,

Michelle

Vogue Paris or Languishing Luxuriously in the Library

I'm not going to lie to you, the FIDM library is perhaps my favorite place to spend some free time. There are oodles of magazines from across the globe where I can indulge myself in international styles, along with a plethora of information on anything that is fashion. I admit that I also enjoy looking around and seeing what other people are doing. Everyone's busy working away on various projects, and it amazes me that this is what we do for homework. Art. I feel blessed for attending a school that encourages such creative exploration. Sure, it can be stressful and overwhelming at times, but when you take a second to step back and really look at it, the whole process is incredible.

 

Lara Stone in Vogue Paris

But anyway, I was in the library this afternoon cuddled up in one of those infamous beanbags, mesmerized by dozens of different Vogue September issues, when one particularly photo collection caught my eye. Inside Vogue Paris was a spread called "Gloria," featuring a model named Lara Stone. Immediately, I was attracted to the fact that here is this gorgeous model with a small gap in her front teeth. Now, most of you may not know, but I have a small one myself, so I'll admit that I was biased to this model because she made my insecurity look pretty stunning.

 

Loving vibes & virtual kisses,

Michelle

Alice Is the New Black!

If you're a fellow Wonderland fanatic such as myself, you may be aware that Disney Couture is coming out with a clothing and jewelry collection inspired by Tim Burton's upcoming movie in Spring 2010. If you were not aware, get with the program! The Alice obsession is driving everyone deliciously mad and craving all things kooky and nonsensical. Check out the surprise fashion show Disney staged at the MAGIC marketplace in Las Vegas! Love it!

Everyone Needs a Little Inspiration Sometimes

Hey you, guess what? This is your life! It's starting, it may be scary, but it's starting. Don't lag behind, now. Stop your excuses, resist the urge to look back – this is what you've been waiting for! Just keep those bright eyes of yours ahead, and take things one step at a time when it gets overwhelming. Soak up all the knowledge around you while you can. There is so much to learn out there, so much to know, to understand. Take it, use it, put your enlightenment into practice. Be open, alert, awake, and aware to your surroundings. Love every second of it! This is your adventure, your own dazzling fairy tale. Make it as magical as you wish. You do not have to accept mediocrity. Cherish every event, every person you come into contact with. It's all a blessing meant for you. We are all one universal being, one soul living this life together. Make the effort of eliminating negativity when you can. It's extra baggage that will only hold you back. Just allow it to slide off you, the way water slides off a duck. Life is fantastic, don't rush. It'll happen when it's meant to. Know what you want and strive for it, trusting the universe has your back. It does. And my dear, the sight is stunning. Keep smiling, even when it's hard. Especially when it's hard. You are loved, by more than you know. Don't forget that. Your reality is based on your perception, which means you have the power to change your surroundings, your attitude, your life. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise. Your love, and joy, and enthusiasm is infectious. Spread it. Be courteous, and give genuine compliments often. Let go of judgment and hate. Hear someone out. Eat without guilt, but don't lose control of yourself. Fall in and out of love, and just enjoy the experience. Treat yourself. Have intellectual debates, but admit if you're wrong. Be grateful for what you have, work hard to get what you don't. Realize you can always improve. Get your body on a normal sleep schedule. Wake up to a beautiful morning and go for a walk. Sing with the birds. Actually listen when someone talks to you. Show compassion for all living beings. Follow your passion. Stop being stubborn. Appreciate your loved ones, and let them know how much they mean to you. Don't be afraid to take silly photos. Live in the present moment. Challenge yourself everyday. Don't overreact, keep things simple. Listen to music that makes you feel happy. Learn to be charming. Dress up in a small way everyday. Admit your flaws and improve them. Breathe deeply and stretch up to the sky, then down to the earth. Speak up. Make eye contact. Don't be afraid of love. Be curious, not fearful. Kiss someone daily, even if it's your dog. Laugh a lot. Be genuine. Don't suppress your emotions. Express yourself. Reach out. Make new friends. Understand and respect another person's point of view. Accept there are things you cannot change, and move on. Never stop dreaming. Create something amazing. Explore your imagination. Just live and love your life.

 

"When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too." -Paulo Coelho

 

Loving vibes & virtual kisses,

Michelle