The 30-

something
issue
Welcome Who’s
to your 30s: that Girl?
A roundtable discussion How Big Retail Chains
with New York’s top female are targeting the
movers and shakers. “new” 30-year-old.

Coming out Tips from

of Hibernation:
Fashion ideas to inspire and
get you out of your winter rut.
My Poorly
Drawn Life:
At home with Comic Book
Artist Tania del Rio.
the Pros:
Over 30 pages of
insider tips and links
for clothing, beauty,
home decor, cooking,
fitness, books, the
arts and more!
Spring 2010
 Spring 2010

contents 15
12 8 Contributors

9 Letter from the Editor

In Every Issue
10

Essentials Spring’s essentials
items by blogger Cassandra LaValle.

12

Coverings Top dress picks of the
season by Denver dilletant May Wilson.

14

Furnishings The lates trends in home decor
by shop owner and blogger Annie Crowninshield.

16

Vanities Beauty Expert, Andrea Ducharme’s working
girl’s guide to spring makeup.

18

Vanities Makeup artist, Ann Marie Laurendeau, selects
the latest products to look your best this spring.

10 20

Eats Real estate broker and part-time foodie, Michelle Mckenna,
shows us how to cook in season.

18

p sloane / spring 2010

 Spring 2010

116
contents
In Every Issue
88

READS Book Reviewer, publicist and journalist, Jocelyn Kelley,
recommends what’s new in print.

90

Rants Amber West tells it like it is. This issue she takes on a tall
drink of a certain warm obsession...

92

SWEATS Mariel McNaughton reports on what’s hot in fitness.
This issue, let go of your fear of weights with BODYPUMP.

116

LUSTs Publisher, Dana Córdova’s lusts of the season.
Because, well, we all want things...

33
Features
24

Welcome to your Thirties A round table discussion
about the benefits of saying goodbye to your twenties.

28

Who’s that Girl? Retailers rejigger selections and concepts
to capture the 30-something shopper.

33

The Eye of the Beholder The history of the ideals of beauty
from the strange, painful, absurd and even deadly.

92 88
p sloane / spring 2010
Publisher / Editor Dana Córdova
Spring 2010
Design / Photo Editor Dana Córdova
Assistant Editor Colleen Reilly
Marketing Rachel Texeira

contents
Technical Advisor Luke Peters

Special Thanks / Unofficial Advisory Board:

Raul Córdova, Casey Hatchett, Vanessa Peck,
Ben Tregoe, Adam Wynne

Advertising Sales:
advertising@sloanemag.com
40 Fashion
Interested in Getting Involved?
Please send your idea pitch to 40

Hibernation’s End Relaxed boho layers to carry you through
chilly mornings, warm afternoons and out on the town.
editorial@sloanemag.com with the
subject line: Ideas for the urbane.
58

Belgian Beauties The young women of Brussells teach us how
to look chic on a dime by mixing unique vintage pieces.
Join the Mailing List!
mail@sloanemag.com
72

SpringFling Wake yourself, and your mate, up from a winter
slumber and slip into these light and flirty lingerie pieces.
© 2010 sloane

Usage, mention or reproduction of any content

within this publication MUST link back to:
www.sloanemag.com (basically, this means:
Arts, Interviews, Essays
we’d love for you to talk about sloane, but just
be courtious, give us credit and a link.) 95

Arts Behind the scenes with New York art’s writer, Jennifer Guinn.
This issue: explore the Whitney Bienniel 2010 & New York Art Fairs.

102

My Poorly Drawn Life Sloane goes inside the home of comic
artist Tania del Rio.

Usage License: Attribution-Noncommercial-

No Derivative Works 3.0 United States,
108

Reflections It’s the Worst Thing Getterly Old?
by Ginna Christensen.
Creative Commons.

To Share: to copy, distribute and transmit the

work under the following conditions:
Attribution: You must attribute the work in the
109

Reflections Making Friends, Yoga Style, by Marique Newell.
Sometimes reaching out can be more rewarding than you think.

manner specified by the author or licensor (but

111
not in any way that suggests that they endorse
you or your use of the work).
Reflections Thirty-fried, by Leala C. Munson.
Noncommercial: You may not use this work for The frazzeled working girl gets a reality check.
commercial purposes.
No Derivative Works: You may not alter, trans- 95

114
form, or build upon this work. Reflections Proper Ventilation, By Joanne Colan.
Just, breathe.

p sloane / spring 2010 p sloane / spring 2010

contributors
Born and raised in Berkeley, CA.
Chloe got her MFA in Film Produc-
tion from USC and quickly found
she loved taking still photos more
than working on moving ones. For
Spring Fling Chloe went on loca-
tion in the desert outside Los An-
geles to shoot images that capture
the warmth and freedom of spring. bience of the streets of Brussels.
www.chloeaftel.com.
Felicity Byrne is a freelance photog-
rapher and photo editor living in Los
Angeles. She has a degree in pho-
tography from Art Center College of
Design. Her work has appeared in
Dazed and Confused, Vibe, and Flaunt
Magazine. For Hibernation’s End Felic-
ity created beautiful photgraphs using
natural light and a simple home set-
ting that feel real and relatable.
www.felicitybyrne.com
p sloane / spring 2010
Elkie Vanstiphout was born and
raised in a very small town in Bel-
gium, in which she still spends her
days taking pictures and making mu-
sic. For Belgian Beauties, Elkie and
her sister, stylist Suzie Vanstiphout,
created sophistocated images using
only affordable clothing and the am-
www.ellequi.com
Suzie Vanstiphout attended art
school where she specialized in paint-
ing and drawing. Her favorite hobby
was always playing dressup—from
spending hours composing outfits
for herself and customizing afford-
able dresses, to helping style photo
shoots for friends. She now devotes
all her time to fashion styling.
An accomplished member of the fash-
ion and entertainment industries, Car-
rie Mitchell enjoys a diverse career as
a writer and producer, spanning New
York, Toronto, Vancouver, Shanghai
and Paris. She currently covers all
things style, while photographing and
travelling whenever she can.
www.stylegroove.com
Caletha Crawford is a veteran writer
who has covered fashion and retail
for consumers and market insid-
ers for more than 10 years. In ad-
dition to being the editor in chief make you pause and ideas to stay
of Earnshaw’s magazine, she shares healthy. I encourage you to notice
constructive and destructive critiques
of her favorite television shows at
blamethedvr.wordpress.com. She also resources and background infor-
writes for AskMichaelCohen.com and
the forthcoming TheAtlantaPost.com.
letter from the editor
Dana Córdova
Editor/Publisher
p sloane / spring 2010
sloane was born from 19 years of my
life and 1 moment of insanity.
At age 13, I saw my first issue of
Sassy magazine and knew I wanted
to create a publication of my own.
Flash forward to age 32: 8+ years
in the publishing and contemporary
art world, 1+ year of marriage and,
reflecting on where I’ve been and
where I’d like to go, I decided NOW
was my time.
Freed of publishing costs, logistics
and overhead—and, thanks to ad-
vances in technology—there truly
seems to be no time like the pres-
ent. In creating my vision for the
magazine I considered what I liked
and didn’t like about the maga-
zines stacked up beside my bed. great (albeit annonymous) group of
In truth, I love ALL magazines, all
types, all styles. They are these won-
derful little creations filled with end-
less interest. My friends will tell you
I read every caption, note and even
the index. Fashion, health, design,
fitness, current events...but, they are
all in so many different places and so
often depict people and things with
which I don’t often identify...some
too young, some too mature, others
too high brow and others too low. Ever After” every day.
I hope that you will find sloane is
just right.
Thus, my curatorial skills came in
handy. sloane is in so many ways, a
grand exhibition—a zeitgeist, a col-
lection of life in progress. I hope that
you will find inspiring articles, fun
fashion and beauty ideas, beautiful
photography, thoughtful pieces to
that, (wherever possible) we have
created useful links for shopping
mation on articles. Please consider
and utilize sloane as a resource and
guide to all-things-useful online.
The Spring 2010 inaugural edi-
tion—the 30-Something Issue—
assembles some truly fantastic writ-
ers, photographers and profession-
als to give their take on the concept.
An in depth look at how major retail-
ers are targeting the new moneyed
30-something, to an intruiging over-
view of the ideals of beauty through-
out the ages, to ways in which we
can remember to stop our busy lives
and breath; endless fashion spreads,
beauty tips, over 200 shopping links
and more...
For, Welcome to your Thirties, Car-
rie Mitchell gathered together a
powerful New Yorker’s to offer their
take on what they love about being
in their 30s. This particular piece re-
ally spoke to me, given where I am in
my life, and from being surrounded
by women who feel the same as they
do. We are not our mothers’ daugh-
ters, we are not 25 (although we just
might look it!), we don’t accept the
“settle-down” ideas of the past and
we are changing the idea of “Happily
This is what sloane is about. A place
that combines the youthfulness you
still possess with the self-possession,
achievement and confidence you
never had when you were in your
20s. Please enjoy and be inspired.
I present to you, my firstborn.

1
2
3 6. Selima sunglasses $288 If you’re going to go retro­—go
By the time a new season approaches, I’ve usually already
spent months sorting through new styles and trends (some
of which seem to pass before they’ve even begun) to end up
with an overall look that mixes my classically inspired approach
to design. For spring and summer, I’ve built my must-haves
around a relaxed, washed out beach style that incorporates
pops of neon for a punch of fun...
1. Heidi Merrick Linen Dress $ Nothing says summer more
to me than a little white linen dress. The bohemian sleeves and
neon stitch in this piece are pure genius!
2. Urban Outfitters Outdoor Side Table $38
You can’t expect to enjoy the sunshine without a cool planning in 2002, moving into interior design in
drink in your hand and a table to set it on!
4 coco+kelley. Exploring trends in fashion, decor, and
3. Kendra scott Ring $75 I never leave
home for the evening without a fabulous cock-
tail ring, and neither should you. This year I’m crav-
5 ing the natural texture of turquoise set in shiny gold to contrast
my softer wardrobe. It always makes a statement and is sure to
start a conversation.
4. Sigerson Morrison Sandals $220 Metallic shoes are
a staple in my wardrobe because they absolutely go with
everything, anywhere, all the time. The cutout detail on
these flats adds a beautiful ethnic twist.
5. H&M Denium Jacket $ Yes, it’s true. Denim is
back. But, while I simply cannot imagine myself in
denim button-ups, bustiers, or dresses, there’s no
way to deny a classic jean jacket. James Dean would
be so proud.
p10 sloane / spring 2010
7
classic retro. These clear-rimmed sunglasses from add the per-
fect amount of cool for beach or boulevard time.
7. Dash & Albert Throws $58 A lightweight throw
in washed out stripes is perfect for picnics in the park or
summer nights on the front porch. A cotton version like
this one ensures the easy breezy lifestyle.
8. CB2 Tumblers $3.95 (each) Pick up a few brightly
colored glasses for refreshing cocktails, invite your friends
over, and enjoy the fabulous weather!
9. J. Crew Panama Hat $58 This year’s must-have acces-
sory is the fedora. For me, I prefer the more classic shape
and color like this one. It makes a trend seem less ubiqui-
8
tous and more like you’ve been doing it all along.
10. CB Perfume “At The Beach 1966” $70 Because I’m
a California beach girl at heart, the smell of Coppertone oil
and ocean breezes makes for the best perfume I can imagine.
Cassandra Lavalle began her career in event
2007 when she began her then blog (now business)
entertaining, coco+kelley has received praise and
recognition from publications like Martha Stewart,
Lucky Magazine, and the New York Times. Cassan-
dra lives in Seattle, WA where she also works as a
Home Merchandiser for Anthropologie.
9
10
p11 sloane / spring 2010
 6 9

1. Vivienne Westwood, $575 Maybe its my east coast
roots, but I am a sucker for nautical stripes and this season we
can all love them together because they are everywhere. I love
that this dress is not your typical stripe and is very flattering for
those who are frightened by horizontal stripes.
2. Halston Heritage, $895 I am new to this line, but I like
what I see. This dress connects with my inner hippy (VERY in-
ner). Think big gold chunky bracelet, some gold hoops and a
comfortable pair of flats.
3. Missoni, $775 Oh Missoni how you have hurt my bank ac-
countant, but they never go out of style. This season I am col-
lecting my spare change and swearing off Starbucks so that
I can have one of my very own. This season and beyond.
4. Alexander Wang, $595 You will see a lot of these ruched
dresses this season. They look very intimidating on around both of these trends, but this DVF dress
the hanger, but take a deep breath and try it on! This style hides
a multitude of sins and will make you feel sexy...I promise.
1
5. Lotta Stensson, $135
When I see this dress I dream
of farmer markets, flip flops and
big sunglasses. There is noth-
ing more comfortable then
a great jersey floor length
dress for Spring errands.
6. Rebecca Taylor, $325
The little girl in me will always
love ruffles. I love the idea of a
little tan, silver accessories and a
great pair of wedges (see Jimmy
3
Choo this season!).
2
8. Milly, $316 Ever since I saw the
Hérmes chain pattern I have cov-
eted all things chain linked...except
fences. This dress is no exception.
9. Banana Republic, $79.50
I love hunting down a deal for
the season and this is it for me.
Oprah’s stylist said we all have to
have a spicy color for the Spring
and he is right...they look good on
EVERYONE! Check out the detail
around the collar...love.
7 10. DVF, $220 Two of the big buzz words
for this Spring are floral and abstract prints.
I have always had trouble getting my head
works for me. I especially love the waist wrap so
it doesn’t end up looking like a muumuu.
10
4
May Gardner Wilson currently resides in
Denver, CO working on decorating projects
ranging from pillow fluffing to home re-mod-
8
els. She also is involved with a variety of local
and international charities. Prior to Denver,
May worked as a designer with Charlotte
Moss in New York City. Her pride and joy
is her pug Lola who patiently observes
her constant desire to look her best!

7. Philip Lim, $350 When I

started seeing Phillip Lim in the
magazines, I was not blown
away. To see it in person is to
love it. The rouching detail on
the chest is a very flattering.
This is a great day to evening
transition dress this Spring.

5
p12 sloane / spring 2010 p13 sloane / spring 2010
 4 Two’s company, $195

1 Downtown, (contact dealer for price)

5 williams sonoma, $450

Annie CROWNINSHIELD is a Boston native who

was born into a family of pioneering modernists.
2 PB Teen, $149
Trained as an artist in France and Mexico, she
eventually entered the world of interior design. Af-
ter starting her own online sofa company in 2005,
she became partner of Empiric Inc. in Los Angeles,
CA where she dedicates her time contributing to
their growing line of new and vintage home fur-
nishings. She also writes the lifestyle blog relishs-
mallpleasures.blogspot.com

As functional household objects

or simply items of decor, the history of mir-
rors is long and ever evolving. Increasingly
important in many aspects of design and
architecture, these eye catching scalloped
mirrors are no exception. An organic de-
parture from the recent trend in sunburst
mirrors, these lend a softer silhouette to the
modern, contemporary, and eclectic interi-
ors of today.

6 Target, $249.99

3 Empiric, $275
p14 sloane / spring 2010 p15 sloane / spring 2010
Once again spring is here and it is time to renew, re-
invent and refresh your wardrobe and makeup. This season,
I have been asked by many of my professional clients this ques-
tion: “How do I translate the bold, and in some cases downright
over the top, looks featured on the runways into a workable
look?” Of course, as a makeup artist I am completely smitten
with the matte fuchsia lip, just not sure if it will fly for the work-
ing girl at her next risk-reduction presentation at the office. Well,
why not sneak some strategically placed SHEER pops of color
in with your favorite neutrals? After all, a girl can still be stylish
while she is conquering the corporate jungle.
Lips
Cherry red, fiery orange, hot fuchsia and neon pink lipsticks
call out to you from the spring makeup displays, but how do
you wear these shades to the weekly management meeting and
be taken seriously? Simple. Put on the bold lip color, blot down
and top with a clear lip gloss. Now pair it with a classic nude
eye shadow, two coats of mascara, add a swirl of a matte pinky-
peach blush to the apples of your cheeks and you are ready to
rule the boardroom.
• NARS Torrid Blush: Slightly pink, bright peach
tone with a hint of shimmer
• MAC Shroom Eyeshadow: Simply the perfect
allover ivory shadow with a satin texture
• Paula Dorf Eyeshadow in Wet Sand: A great
matte warm brown to define the crease
• Stila Smudgepot in Cobalt: A stay all day gel
liner in the perfect 80’s blue, can be softened
and smudged but never budges
• NARS Niagra Lipstick: The perfect Pink-Coral
• NARS Schiap Lipstick: A beautiful matte pink
• Bareminerals Buxom Lipgloss In Krystal:
A clear lipgloss with a plumper built into the formula
Image: Spring 2010 Versace via Style.com Image: NARS

Eyes
This go-to technique is a sure bet to brighten your eyes while still
looking professional when crunching numbers. Take a neutral
ivory shadow all over the lid, add a matte warm peachy brown
into the crease, now add a smudge of whatever jewel tone shade
you want along the upper lash-line. It is a surprisingly chic way
to wear the candy-colored shadows seen at Bryant Park while
presenting your latest ad campaign on Madison Avenue.

Cheeks
I ADORE the Spring 2010 Nars Collection featuring Amber Valetta
channelling Catherine Deneuve goddess with majorly contoured
bright coral cheekbones. However I realize this will look over-
done in the workplace, so here is my solution. If you simply have Andrea Ducharme has been working in the
to have wear the bright cheek color, skip the contour all together. makeup industry for over 18 years, and has had
Simply smile and swirl the coral or pink blush on your apples, the pleasure and honor to represent Clinique,
then dip your blush brush into a translucent powder and go over Estee Lauder, Trish McEvoy and MAC Cosmetics.
the cheeks to soften the look even more. Who says you can’t be She has received many awards and acknowledg-
flush with success while looking fabulous? ments, including being named one of Boston’s
five top makeup artists by Fashion Boston Maga-
Image: Michael Thompson via www.allure.com zine. While managing Rouge Cosmetics in Salem, Image: Elle.com
MA the boutique was awarded the prestigious
“Best of Boston for Makeup Shopping” by Boston
Magazine. She also works with several Boston
celebrities to ensure they look their best at their
personal appearances.

p16 sloane / spring 2010 p17 sloane / spring 2010


1. Perricone MD Nutritive Cleanser $60 This luxuri-
ous cleanser removes impurities (dirt, oil & makeup) with-
1 out stripping the skin of its vital moisture. Packed with an-
tioxidants and other anti-aging ingredients such as Alpha
Lipoic Acid and DMAE—proven to diminish the appear-
ance of fine lines and improve skin’s overall texture.
2. Estee Lauder Idealist Dual-Action
Refinishing Treatment $50
2 Regular exfoliation is the best way to remove dead
skin cells and rejuvenate skin that feels dull and drab.
This finely grained scrub is ultra gentle, yet works
perfectly to reveal healthy skin cells. It will leave you
with a soft glow.
3. DHC Skincare Velvet Skin Coat $21
Face primers are the secret weapon used by profes-
sional makeup artists to achieve a flawless and more
youthful complexion. This unique, non-greasy, gel
primer greatly enhances your skin’s overall appear-
ance and extends the wear-time of foundation. After
3
one use you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
4. Anemone Makeup Anti-Aging Moisturizer
$24.00 (available 7/1/10)
This light-weight lotion is specifically formulated to
4 correct the appearance of aging by stimulating collagen
production and diminishing the appearance of fine lines and
wrinkles. Natural green and white tea extracts work day and
night to help skin retain moisture.
5. Senna Cosmetics Sheer Glow Eye Color $16.50
This sheer powder eye shadow provides intensely rich color as it
glides on effortlessly, and it doesn’t crease or fade. Semi-opaque
color and light-reflective finish enhance eyes to their
maximum potential. (If you are searching for Makeup and in 2006 launched her own line of all-
a pretty champagne color try Glossamer.)
6. M.A.C. Mineralize Blush $21
This gorgeous luminous powder blush contains all the
benefits of pure minerals. It seamlessly glides across
your cheeks without streaking, resulting in the same
sheer healthy glow you achieve from a brisk walk!
p18 sloane / spring 2010
8
6
7. Clarins Joli Rouge Perfect Shine
Sheer Lipstick $24
This creamy textured lipstick instantly adds color
and shine to your lips. The long-lasting formula
keeps color true for hours after application.
Coral shades are the most popular lip colors
for spring; if you are looking for a fun new
color, try Melon.
8. Neutragena Healthy Skin Brighten-
ing Eye Perfector SPF 25 $13.99
This incredible illuminator highlights and brightens your
9
complexion while working miracles on skin imperfections. Wear
as a light-weight concealer or as a highlighter under the eye-
brows. High-tech formula contains SPF 25 for added protection
against harmful sun rays. 7
9. Sonia Kushuk Perfecting Liquid Makeup $10.49
Don’t be fooled by cost, this lightweight liquid foundation offers
many of the benefits of foundations with a much higher price.
A few pumps of this product will provide your skin with an
invisible, natural-looking dewy finish and moderate coverage.
10. CoverGirl Volume Blasting Mascara $8.99
Exclusive volume-boosting formula and ultra full brush
lengthens and separates lashes without clumping, flaking
or smudging, creating the long and full lashes you have
always desired. Removes easily with a mild cleanser and
water. Hypoallergenic and suitable for contact lens wearers.
10
Ann Marie Laurendeau is a makeup artist,
hair stylist, educator, and writer with more than 20
years experience. In 1995 she founded Anemone
natural, mineral-based cosmetics which includes
makeup and skin care products. Throughout her
career, Ann Marie has provided makeup and hair-
styling for many well-known corporate clients, ce-
lebrities, and public figures. Based in Boston, she
frequently travels throughout New England, New
York and beyond for media, destination weddings,
and events.
p19 sloane / spring 2010

Featured Recipe
of the Season: 2 organic eggs
Creamy Grits with Crispy
Leeks, Cilantro Pesto,
Queso Fresco, and Sunny
Side Up Egg
Getting together for brunch has al-
ways been a favorite tradition with
my friends. This recipe is a nice tran-
sition from winter to spring, a little
southern take on breakfast using
delicious mexican ingredients. (Your
favorite sausage can also be added
for a heartier meal.)
Serves 2
INGREDIENTS
3 cups water
1 cup whole milk
1 cup polenta Add a tablespoon or so of the pesto
(or grits essentially the same thing)
1/4 cup canola oil
3 leeks, white parts only, halved
lengthwise, cleaned and thinly sliced
2 morita peppers or other smoked
pepper of your choice, briefly
p20 sloane / spring 2010
toasted in a dry skillet
1 tablespoon honey
2 ounces queso fresco or other
cheese of your choice
Bring the 3 cups of water and 1 cup
of milk to a boil. Whisk in the polen-
ta in a thin stream, stirring continu-
ously.
Add a couple big pinches of salt. Re-
duce to a simmer. Cook for about 45
minutes, stirring occasionally. You
will notice a distinct change where
they go from being “gritty” to creamy.
Add more water as necessary if they
are getting dry before that happens.
Anytime after they turn creamy, they
are ready to serve. Taste and add salt
as needed.
Meanwhile, make the Cilantro Pesto
in a food processor, pulse until it
forms a coarse, pesto-like consis-
tency. You might need a little more
oil. Taste and adjust salt. Makes
about one cup.
Heat a very large, preferably a cast-
iron skilet over a high flame. Add 1/4
cup of oil and heat for a moment.
Add the leeks and a big pinch of salt
and fry, turning only very occasional-
ly, until they are mostly deep brown.
Remove about two tablespoons of
them two paper towels and season 1/2 cup blanched almonds Whatever you don’t use, you can It helps them last longer, they look
with salt. As they cool, the should 1/4 cup chopped red onion freeze (delicious over pasta). Line a pretty in your kitchen and they are
become crisp. 1/2 teaspoon chopped and ice cube tray with plastic wrap and right there ready to use.
seeded serrano chile fill in the individual cube spaces with
Return the pan to a medium flame 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt the pesto. Freeze and remove from Adapted from Herbivoracious
(with the rest of the leeks still in it), 1/4 cup olive oil the ice tray, put in a sealed freezer bag
and deglaze the pan with 1 cup of 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for future use. NEED INSPIRATION?
water, scraping well to get all the fla- Check out these recipes with salivating
vorful bits. Add the morita peppers In a food processor, pulse the cilan- Quick Tip photography: www.tastespotting.com
and the honey and whisk. Reduce tro, almonds, onion, chile, and salt Using fresh herbs can add another lev-
heat to a bare simmer and cook until well blended. With the food el of flavor. I love adding them to sal- Cool New Food Site:
five minutes, adding more water if processor running, slowly add the ads and pasta. When you bring your www.pictorymag.com/showcases/
needed. olive oil in a steady stream. Add herbs home from the grocery store local-flavor
more oil as needed for your use. wash them and put them in a vase
Using a fine sieve and pressing well, Makes about 1 cup. with water to keep fresh all week.
transfer the liquid to a very small
saucepan and keep warm. Dispose
of the solids. Reduce or add liquid
as necessary to produce a thin jus
with just a hint of body. Taste and
adjust seasoning. We’d like a bal-
ance of savory from the leeks, salt,
smoke and heat, and sweetness
from the honey.
In a non-stick skillet, fry off two eggs.
Cover so that the whites cook while
the yolk remains runny.
To serve, put a helping of the grits
in each bowl and make a well. Fill
the well with the egg. Top with the
crispy leeks and pour a couple table-
spoons of the jus around the edge.
and a small piece of queso fresco.
Cilantro Pesto
INGREDIENTS
2 cups, packed, of cilantro,
large stems removed
p21 sloane / spring 2010
New Staple Recipe
Ina Garten’s Mexican
Chicken Soup
Today with the internet at our finger
tips there are thousands of recipes to
choose from it makes it overwhelm-
ing to pick out a recipe and how do
you know which one is better than
another? This is a great quick meal,
that’s makes a big batch to have
all week long. I bought a rotisserie
chicken and shredded the chicken
to save time. The easiest way to
shread chicken is to use two forks
and pull the meat apart. Don’t skimp
on the toppings they take the soup
to whole new level!
p22 sloane / spring 2010
People all over the country are realizing all the ben-
efits of eating locally. More nutritious and flavorful
fruits and vegetables plus you support your local
farmers. Find out where there are farmers markets
near you: www.localharvest.org
Winter
Chestnuts, Grapefruit, Lemons, Oranges
Tangerines, Kale, Leeks, Radicchio
Radishes, Rutabaga, Turnips
Spring
Apricots, Avocado, Mango, Pineapple
Rhubarb, Strawberries, Artichoke, Asparagus
Carrots, Celeriac, Chives, Collards
Fava Beans, Fennel, Fiddlehead Ferns, Morels
Mustard Greens, New Potatoes, Spinach
Spring Baby Lettuce Mixes, Sugar Snap
and Snow Peas, Vidalia Onions, Watercress
Summer
Blackberries, Blueberries, Nectarines, Peaches
Plums, Raspberries, Tomatoes, Watermelon
Beets, Broccoli, Chinese Cabbage, Corn
Cucumber, Eggplant, Garlic, Green Beans
Summer Squash, Zucchini
Fall
Apples, Cranberries, Figs, Grapes, Pears
Pomegranate, Quince, Acorn Squash, Belgian
Endive. Butternut Squash, Cauliflower, Celeriac
Garlic, Ginger, Mushrooms, Parsnips, Potatoes
Pumpkin, Sweet Potatoes, Swiss Chard
Source: www.hubpages.com
Michelle Mckenna currently lives in Boston,
working at a real estate firm selling high-end
residential homes. She has always thought of
cooking as a way to bring people together and
considers it a form of expression, not a chore.
Her love of food began as a child cooking with
her mother and grew after a semester abroad in
Venice, Italy while earning her BFA from Boston
University. Most days you will likely find her read-
ing a cookbook on the “T” rather than the Wall
Street Journal.

By Carrie Mitchell
Illustration by Kristian Goddard
Age only matters when one is ag-
ing. Now that I have arrived at a
great age, I might just as well be
twenty…Youth has no age. —Pablo
p24 sloane / spring 2010
I recently overheard a woman
complain about turning thirty; she
bemoaned getting older, having re-
sponsibilities and less fun. “Oh sis-
ter, if only you knew!”, I thought. It
was difficult to restrain myself from
telling her she had no idea just how
much more powerful, confident and
sexy it is to be a woman in your
thirties. You are a survivor of mis-
guided, youthful folly and jubilance,
thankfully arriving at 30 infinitely
more sure of yourself. Although the
journey of self-discovery is life-long,
there is something to be said for tak-
ing those many roads that lead to so
many mistakes in your 20’s. You will
eventually be thankful for it all, hav-
ing lived and learned about yourself.
You’ll be proud to celebrate your
passage by hoisting your flag atop
the mini mountain that is 30! It’s
an accomplishment. Your 30’s are
not what you imagined during your
teenage years. I look back and laugh
when I recall what I imagined. What
will you say to yourself looking back
from 50? 60? 30 is young—enough
with lamenting over birthdays! As is
the case for all the decades to come:
age is entirely an attitude, and if you
find yourself in a progressive and
positive state of mind, you can be
any age you feel you want to be. Do
not submit to an age category box!
I am not here to stereotype or
judge those younger than I, especially
because I know some spectacularly
wise teenagers and 20-something’s,
some disastrous 30 & 40 year olds,
and of course, brilliant, youthful and
inspiring women in their 60’s, 70’s
and 80’s. The frivolity of those earlier
years can bring about both wonder-
ful and difficult experiences. Reck-
less abandon shifts to cautious opti-
mism, peppered with skepticism. As
young women, we are busy proving
to the world we can take care of our-
selves, all the while test driving our
emotions, test driving partners and
defining ourselves. It’s a wild and
wonderful ride, so take the time to
reflect on it and be excited for all the
possibilities. For most women, the
person she is at 20 is drastically dif-
ferent than the woman she becomes
by 30: the evolution is a messy but
beautiful process.
C.S. Lewis said, “Thirty was
so strange for me. I’ve really had to
come to terms with the fact that I am
now a walking and talking adult.”
There may be some truth to that,
but if you think you are suddenly go-
ing to wake up one day “an adult,”
think again. No matter your age, you
continue to straddle the divide be-
tween adolescence and responsibil-
ity of adulthood. Embrace it. I don’t
think it serves one well to solely fall
onto one side of that equation or the
other. For God’s sake, have some
fun while you’re doing it all; laugh
and be open with your friends; they
need it too. I think there is an hon-
esty that comes with age, letting
p25 sloane / spring 2010
down guards, exposing your battle
scars, and admitting you don’t know
everything. There is tremendous
freedom in that. In my 30’s it was as
though the flood-gates opened and
truth started to spill from the mouths
of my friends as we stopped our
judgmental tendencies and finally
saw each other for everything we
have in common as women. It is im-
portant to maintain perspective, and
not get lost in the details because
your 30’s are busy. You have a ca-
reer, a full social life, hobbies, travel,
maybe even a marriage and/or kids.
You may find yourself in a position
at work or at home, wondering how
you got there. The new adjectives
that reflect your own “maturity” and
include more concrete ideals such
as integrity, passion for living, princi-
ples, goal-oriented, considerate and
loving. Creating the life you want in
your 30’s takes work, but it’s worth
it! You finally can make it on your
own terms, and in collaboration with
an equal partner. Your thirties (and
beyond) are a force with which to be
reckoned in all the right ways.
Relationships change too, and
whether you are married, divorced
or dating, you suddenly find yourself
asking questions about your future
that had just seemed so far away.
My friends and I jokingly refer to our
lives as “tales from the dangerously
self-sufficient” that include as we
are building our careers, buying our
homes, taking ourselves out to din-
ner, and managing our own invest-
ments. The majority of women in
my life live in major cities from New
York to Vancouver, and Los Angeles
to London. There’s an abundance
of incredible, single women in each
city and happily so. For every wom-
an who is married with kids, I will
show you five who are not but liv-
ing extremely full lives. I have come
to know couples in fantastic rela-
tionships, but even more who have
channeled dreams of prince/prin-
cess charming into fantasies of their
own making. Do we want to have it
all? Yes. Will we survive with out it?
Yes. But now is the time to decide
what you can and can’t live without.
I am lucky in my life to be sur-
rounded by incredible women who
are smart, kind, funny, cultured and
driven, and who rarely get splashed
across the covers of magazines.
With so much to discuss, I gathered
these women together for a round-
table discussion and asked these
friends—from journalists to pro-
ducers, artists to financiers, single
ladies to mothers—to share their
(anonymous) thoughts on being 30-
something. Here are the results:
What do you like about being in
your thirties?
—I love my 30’s because it’s all
about me as an independent woman
and I can do whatever I want on my
own terms, living by my own rules
that come from my heart and my
brain! In my 20’s I was consumed
by the little things in life, like what
to wear, who to date and what hot
spot I planned on hitting. In my 30’s
I am thinking of my path to financial
freedom, the countries I want to vis-
it, my home, my family, my friends,
looking at myself with an objective
eye, evolving as a woman. In my
20’s I was always confident without
reason but in my 30’s I am confident
and have an understanding of it.
—I feel so loving and happy in my
30’s. My 20’s were a mess for me!
Everything fell into place and made
sense in my 30’s. I know what I am
doing here now when in my 20’s I
wasn’t sure if I was coming or going,
and I hear the 40’s are even better,
if you can imagine, and 50’s, then
60’s and so on. I feel able to take
on whatever I need, whether from a
business or personal standpoint.
—Motherhood. The clarity of action/
purpose. The multi-faceted beauty
of womanhood amplified is happen-
ing right now for me in my 30’s with
a growing awareness of what that
means in human terms.
—A few things come to mind… I’ve
always been a people pleaser and
I’ve learned that sometimes you
have to put your own feelings and
happiness ahead of trying to please
everyone else...as I get older this is
becoming clearer to me. I’ve also
noticed that my relationship with my
parents has started to develop into
more of a friendship than a parent/
child relationship in the past couple
years. And I still have as much fun as
I did in my 20s but I now have more
of my own money to do it with!
—As someone who is very focused
on career at the moment, I love that
in your thirties people take you seri-
ously in business. Finally!
p26 sloane / spring 2010
—Oh God, I love my thirties. There
is such a profound relief in it. Not
that it is easier, just richer and more
productive. I was reminded on my
birthday this year of a great Oscar
Wilde quote: “Thirty-five is a very
attractive age. London society is full
of women of the very highest birth
who have, of their own free choice,
remained thirty-five for years.”
What did you think you would be
doing now? What are you doing
now and is it better?
—I thought I would have a job where
I am hugely successful… I am work-
ing on doing that now, in an industry
I love; however I never accounted
for my taste getting so much more
specific and lifestyle becoming such
a big factor.
—I thought I would be married with
6 kids. But I am working at work, at
home and on myself, and actually
this is much better! I hope for a good
man but if he doesn’t show up I can
live out my dreams on my own!
—I am continuing building my career
experience as a writer, starting my
own company, being a full-time mom,
writing my thesis, and gearing up to
be officially back to work: generally
expanding my outlook. Building my
own business is immensely reward-
ing, humbling, challenging and worth
it. I’ve literally felt myself grow expo-
nentially as a human being.
What women do you admire?
—I look at my mother and see how
solid she is. That can only come with
experience and it is amazing to see.
—Successful women in business
like Producer Christine Vachon.
—Any woman with a command of
her brilliance and fierce with a vital
capacity to love. Women that tran-
scend time…
—I admire Angelina Jolie...she’s
successful, married Brad f**king
Pitt, adopted half a litter, had a lit-
ter of her own and doesn’t give a
s**t what anyone thinks! Also, my
dearest friend for never judging me,
always supporting my decisions,
never telling me what to do but
guiding me with my best interest in
mind, being a great listener, a truth-
ful woman, giving me unconditional
love and being a great friend.
What questions would you ask of
your peers?
—Are we really grown ups?
—My concerns are that I might not
carry a child of my own at this point.
I would ask my peers if they have
the same concerns and how they
feel about the possibility of never
conceiving a child.
—I generally ask spontaneous ques-
tions when together with other
girlfriends-- I like the ones that are
based on day-to-day life experienc-
es, of the now.
Thoughts on the youth obsessed
media?
—The one thing about youth that
can never be captured in the later
years is the sparkle in your skin and
stupidity. I don’t understand the ob-
session with youth in media. I per-
sonally find a woman that has lived
out her youth more attractive. She
has more substance and character.
—I hardly even notice it anymore.
Good for them…it is only a one-di-
mensional perspective, so as long
as I keep that in mind, it doesn’t
bother me.
—I think the youth of today get it.
Frivolity, gaiety, freedom to satisfy
pleasures and whims is underrated
-- it’s about a youthful state of mind.
They’re doing all these things;
they’re smart, savvy, spearhead-
ing the 21st century in a lot of ways
(direct and indirect), and achieving
what someone in their 30’s, 40’s and
up can without context...
Any lessons you would like to
share? Advice?
—Appreciate yourself as a woman.
Give love and honest friendship. Ac-
cept wrong decisions and take ap-
propriate actions so not to live with
the mistake.
—Be conscious of your own day-to-
day reality, there’s art in that! And
make it a personal achievement to
live each decade better than the one
before but never compare them.
—Don’t be lazy and bank on things
like, “ it’s likely”
p27 sloane / spring 2010
—Move past the relationship fairy
tale. Embrace a real partnership,
because it is infinitely more reward-
ing. Don’t give up on romance, it
is very important, but learn to love
the qualities of another, do the fairy
tale the right way. Connection is ev-
erything, because at the end of the
day you really have to like some-
one, not just love, so that you still
stay engaged and interested in their
own journey as an individual, while
incorporating it in to your own and
constantly loving forward together.
And at this stage of the game, if you
are out there dating, if a connection
doesn’t fit, then move on…
—Life takes you down unexpected
paths without warning. If you have
good people around, you will al-
ways make it through stronger. Take
time to hear someone’s story, you
may be surprised at what you learn.
Follow your heart even if it leads
toward a difficult road. Love deep
and without reserve. Cherish your
friends and family neither can be re-
placed. Regret is the worst thing to
live with, so take a risk and be okay
with whatever the outcome. Have
faith and appreciate what you have
today. S
For more on Carrie Mitchell, visit
www.StyleGroove.com
Who’s That Girl?
Retailers rejigger selections and concepts to capture the 30-something shopper.
By Caletha Crawford
A
ge—like size—is a
very touchy subject in fashion. Just
look at the deep sartorial waters
Eileen Fisher found herself in last
Fall after attempting to ditch her
eponymous brand’s image as your
mother’s clothing label. Beyond the
sleeker, more hip fits of the clothes,
she created a splash by jettisoning
the usual silver-haired Boomers in
the company’s ad campaigns, literal-
ly trading them in for younger mod-
els. Devotees like Rosie O’Donnell
were not amused. But really who
p28 sloane / spring 2010
could blame her? The brand had
grayed to the point of a punch line,
earning a notorious place on Broad-
way in Nora Ephron’s play “Love,
Loss and What I Wore” with the
line: “When you start wearing Ei-
leen Fisher, you might as well say Pinpointing the needs of cus-
‘I give up.’” OUCH!
With this cautionary tale in mind,
it’s no wonder that fashion types are
skittish about discussing age. “Peo-
ple tend not to want to say they’re
targeting people in their 30s just like
they didn’t want to say they’re tar-
geting 40-somethings or 50-some-
things,” observed Wendy Liebmann,
CEO of marketing consultancy WSL
Strategic Retail. “There are compa-
nies that are doing it but not liter-
ally calling out: ‘If you’re 30, come
here.’ They’re addressing a fashion
sensibility, a wearability and a value
proposition that communicates to
that life stage ‘We understand what
you need and we’re delivering it.’”
tomers is a safer option than brack-
eting them by age; no group is
homogeneous, especially today.
“We’re seeing more fragmenting in
age groups than there used to be.
They’re breaking up and becoming
submarket groups,” explains Dudley
Blossom, Ph. D and associate pro-
fessor at LIM College, which focuses
on the business of fashion. “The
Baby Boomer generation was born
in a narrow range—about a five year
time span—so they have the same
history defined by coming out of
World War II. Younger demograph-
ics like Gen X and Y don’t have as
consistent a background.”
Without this shared experi-
ence, it’s challenging to identify the
desires of a whole generation, but
a few generalizations may be safe:
we’re past the slouchy logo sweats
and Uggs phase although we are
not ready to morph into our moth-
ers quite yet. Combine that with the
new pragmatism everyone’s ad-
opted (thanks to the recession) and
today’s 30-year-old consumers are
shopping a lot differently then we
did a decade ago.
“In my 20’s, I was very trendy
and now I have more of a classic
look,” explained Carla Stocker, a
single 40-year-old Wells Fargo bank-
er from the Atlanta area, adding
that she turns to funky accessories
to punch up her look. “In my 20’s,
if I saw it and wanted it, I bought
it. There wasn’t a thought process.
Now, I think about if I need it or have
it in my closet already.”
This idea of stopping to con-
sider a purchase—based on quality,
aesthetics or need—is a hallmark of
30-plus shopping. Meredith Levy,
a 35-year-old New York mom and
founder of the Pint Size Social on-
p29 sloane / spring 2010
line magazine, demands more from
each purchase than she did in the
past. “Ten years ago, I was buying
trendier items, but now the longev-
ity of the item is more important to
me,” she said. “You realize you have
a closet full of things that are very
one season, and you don’t want that
anymore.”
Introducing The New Kids
On the Block
Retailers are responding to these
shifting demands, aiming stores
and collections towards the various
needs of this demographic, which
spans many life stages (including
singles, marrieds, moms, stay-at-
homes and career women). Some
have taken the Urban Outfitters ap-
proach to appealing to shoppers
who’ve graduated from their initial
store concepts. Like Urban, which
begot Anthropologie—an outlet that
draws a wide range of ages with it’s
trendy but accessable product and
cozy store format—American Eagle
Outfitters launched Martin + Osa in
2006. Unlike American Eagle shop-
pers who typically measure time in
semesters, the new 28-location chain
seeks to lure 25-to-40-year-olds with
more sophisticated denim-focused
merchandise. Currently the store is
chockablock with the season’s sa-
fari-inspired trends, including utility
pants and tees emblazoned with an-
imal illustrations that coincidentally
recall the outback aesthetic compet-
itor Banana Republic launched with
decades ago. Though the sales help
is friendly and the layout inviting,
M+O has left some shoppers cold.
Thirty-eight year old Jennifer
Vallez of Connecticut describes her-
self as an impulsive shopper who
prefers to fill her closet via the In-
ternet thanks to her time-strapped
schedule as a mother of two young

girls and owner of the Sophie & Lili
children’s clothing and accessory
company. Though she says Ameri-
can Eagle is way too young for her
now, she thinks Martin + Osa might
have skewed too far in the other
“This idea of stopping to consider a purchase—
based on quality, aesthetics or need—is a hall-
mark of 30-plus shopping.”
direction. “Martin + Osa is really
boring. It’s too safe, and I’m not a
crazy dresser,” she said. “No one
piece stands out to me at all.” Vallez
does credit the chain with having
covetable accessories, which are
often branded goods like Ray-Ban,
Havaianas and Dolce Vita.
Though based on the selec-
tion, she could see herself shopping
there, Stocker was ultimately turned
off by the M+O’s prices. “I shopped
p30 sloane / spring 2010
the location in the Mall of America
in Minneapolis,” she said, “and I did
see nice things that I would buy but
I thought the stuff was overpriced.”
Monogram, Banana Republic’s
more tailored (read: mature) collec-
tion, has received a similar reaction
among shoppers who question the
value. Vallez, who used to shop at
Banana Republic before it became
“boring”, said Monogram is also un-
derwhelming. “I’ve looked at the col-
lection online, and I think Monogram
is too pricey for what it is.”
Taking A Refresher Course
Ann Taylor is among the established
retail names looking to project a less
stodgy, if not younger image. Last
fall, the store blanketed women’s
magazines with ads touting “The
New Ann.” Turns out, this meant
more trend-right pieces that ex-
tended beyond the store’s for-
mer business-attire niche. For
instance, this spring bright cor-
als and yellows beam from racks
while simple sheaths and ruff led
tops beckon. And whether it was
the marketing or merchandising,
consumers seem to be taking
note. Vallez, who lists Anthropolo-
gie as one of her favorite stores,
stated a renewed interest. “I’ve
been shopping more at Ann Tay-
lor lately. I think they have a new
designer; things seem more mod-
ern and more of my style.”
At Ann Taylor, the company says
that it’s seeking to woo “modern
women” though it doesn’t pinpoint
an age. Similarly, Neiman Marcus’
Cusp concept acknowledges that
its core customer is probably in
her 30s but the aim is for multi-
generational appeal. “We don’t talk
about age because we believe that
in contemporary [fashion] we know
we can dress a wide range of ages,”
said Russ Patrick, managing director
of Cusp. “It’s about her lifestyle and
how she perceives herself.”
Patrick said the Cusp model,
which launched in 2006, offers a
carefully edited selection of contem-
porary fashion for active women.
“She is extremely busy with such a
busy calendar she’s constantly look-
ing for things to updated her ward-
robe,” he stated, explaining that the
stores are laid out for expedience.
“If she’s shopping for something to
go out in that night, we could take
her to a specific room in the store,
and everything would be curated for
her and appropriate for that.”
The Cusp team shops hundreds
of lines, cherry picking the pieces
that are best for their customer. Ac-
cording to Vallez, the tactic works. “I
think Cusp is more my style. I grew
up in New York, and Cusp is more
like a boutique,” she said. “Every-
thing feels really well edited. There’s
a lot of thought going into J. Crew or
Madewell product, but [unlike Cusp]
you feel like it’s all mass produced.”
Cusp’s goal of outfitting shop-
pers from weekend casual to a night
out on the town is also a strength of
J. Crew, which shoppers and indus-
try insiders alike credit for its stay-
ing power and cross-generational
appeal. “J. Crew seems to have a
very broad audience because of the
mix of styling from good-looking ev-
eryday wear going up to the classic
pieces for more special occasions,”
noted Liebmann, adding the range
of price points means there’s some-
thing for everyone. “Martin + Osa
struggles with that. When you see
the quality and presentation, it is a
really pleasant place to shop. But is
it worth the price or too high priced?
J. Crew has different price and qual-
ity points in one store.”
J. Crew is also praised thanks
to its push into new markets like kids
and weddings. “J. Crew looks much
better and the quality is better,” Levy
confirmed. “I love shopping the lo-
cations with Crewcuts. It’s one-stop
shopping.”
Setting the Tone
Convenience is key when catering
to the demands—work, children and
social—that pull 30-somethings in
different directions, but it’s only part
of the puzzle. Increasingly retailers
are focusing on consumer experi-
ence. Patrick said the differences
between the Neiman Marcus stores
and Cusp locations are designed
around the type of shopper each
is trying to lure. “The physical plan
is different from Neiman Marcus.
p31 sloane / spring 2010
There’s a lot of energy in the Cusp self,” she explained, adding that the
store, and we pay a lot of attention tone and merchandising have to
to music,” he said. The challenge for work. “Things like the noise level,
Cusp, which operates six standalone type of music and the experience
locations, will be to bring that ex- level of the staff are all really impor-
perience into it’s newly announced tant in determining if a store is for
shop-in-shops within select Neiman you or your younger sister.” s
Marcus stores.
Blossom points to places like
Apple stores and Barney’s as lead- For more on Caletha Crawford visit
ers in creating environments suited blamethedvr.wordpress.com. She also
to their target customers. “Barney’s writes for AskMichaelCohen.com and
creates a luxurious experience. Ap- the forthcoming TheAtlantaPost.com.
ple creates an Adventureland for
shoppers wheth-
er they’re buying
or not,” he said.
“Stores are realiz-
ing that one of the
only ways they
have left to re-
main competitive
is to create a cus-
tomer experience
that the shoppers
wants to be a part
of.”
Levy, for one,
can list the charac-
teristics that make
for a pleasant shop-
ping experience. “I
don’t like music that
is too loud and light-
ing is key. I enjoy re-
ally good dressing
rooms and skinny
mirrors,” she said,
adding Lululemon
offers one of the
best shopping ex-
periences. “I was
blown away by the
staff and the clothes. Shopping for
workout clothes is like shopping
for bathing suits. You need a help-
ful staff. Other stores should model
around them.”
Liebmann said it’s important
for retailers to remember that wom-
en shop for a variety of different
reasons. “Sometimes shopping is
about necessity and sometimes it’s
about needing a moment to your-
by Amber Hurwitz
I
mages of feminine beauty are
everywhere. History, culture, me-
dia, industry developments—whether
a woman chooses to or not, she is
presented with overwhelming im-
ages of beauty in her society. The
dream of ideal beauty is chased and
regarded as a standard by which
women are so often measured. Nar-
row definitions of beauty make it dif-
ficult to imagine alternatives. Yet a
spectrum of idealized beauty exists
throughout history and the world,
defined by different characteristics
both praised and definitive.
Physical characteristics con-
sidered alluring in one milieu might
be seen as undesirable in others. A
glance into the mainstream percep-
tions of the beauty ideal in different
societies unveils an incredible clash
of tastes, and diversity of appeal.
Outside of any predominantly ac-
cepted vision of beauty there lie oth-
er cults of beauty worship, despite
the seemingly singular onslaught of
imagery in a given culture. A study
of differing perceptions of beauty
cleans the slate in the eye of the be-
holder, and opens a grand array of
what are considered to be coveted
characteristics of beauty.
There is a famous episode of
the Twilight Zone called “Eye of the
Beholder” which illustrates a soci-
ety with clear-cut values regarding
appearances. In the surreal hospital
p33 sloane / spring 2010
room of the Twilight
Zone, the main char-
acter awaits the re-
sults of her ninth pro-
cedure that attempts
to make her look “nor-
mal.” In the fictional
society of the Twilight
Zone, she will be sent
away from society to
live with others who
are deformed if her fi-
nal treatment has not
achieved the desired
result. To her despair
and horror, the last
attempt at fixing her
face fails. A stunningly
beautiful woman ap-
pears as the bandag-
es are removed. The
doctors and nurses
are repulsed by her
appearance, and their
faces are revealed to
be monstrous look-
ing. The woman faces
Dita Von Tesse (Image: Limité)
a life of banishment
from society, and she is greeted by Of course, perception of beau-
another victim of “disfigurement” (in ty is subjective and largely a part of
Twilight terms), who is, of course, a personal taste. However, conformity
very handsome man. He tells her to what is considered ideal physical
that he will take her away to live with beauty is pursued to a rigorous and
others of “their kind,” where she will overwhelming extent. A uniform,
feel a great sense of belonging and uncompromising view of beauty is
being loved. He says to her, “there’s often pursued to the extent of health
an old saying. A very, very old say- risks, surgeries, time—consum-
ing… beauty is in the eye of the be- ing and expensive beauty rituals,
holder.” Though it’s obviously an mutilation, self-destruction, eating
extreme and bizarre mind trick, the disorders and even death. Women
episode contemplates themes of have long suffered in attempting
conformity to cultural norms. to embody impossible standards.
 single picture that sparked an enor-
mous response from readers all over
the world. “The Lizzi Miller Phenom-
enon” resulted in hundreds of read-
ers flooding the magazine’s website
the moment after the image first ap-
peared, lauding their approval and
The ugly side of beauty—where admiration and desire. Viewing the of white skin as the standard and appreciation with comments like, “I
women who are literally dying for idealized beauty through a number ideal relegates non-white beauty to love this picture. I was starting to de-
approval, is something most women of lenses reveals an ever-changing, be considered “exotic.” White West- spair of ever seeing real women in
have felt to some degree in many highly subjective, and far from the ern beauty standards certainly affect magazines and it made me reassess
cultures. Unfortunately, a major- singular image emblazoned in main- other ethnicities ideals significantly, how I look at myself. I have a simi-
ity of women today report having stream media. Considering the vast so not only are beauty standards nar- lar tummy which I hate—but look
poor body-image and many under- spectrum of worshipped ideal beau- rowly defined but widely portrayed at her, she’s beautiful.”4 The model
ty, it is like compar- as the norm. American beauty stan- was pictured smiling to her naked
ing the Lily to the dards are hugely influential around self, looking comfortable and care-
Rose. the globe. Lack of diversity in the free in a 3x3 photograph on page
What is beauty? idealized standard is significant. Un- 94. The featured model, 20-year-old
According to Web- der-representation of black women Lizzi Miller, was a size 12-14, coinci-
ster’s Dictionary, (not to mention other minorities) in dentally about the same size as the
the word beauty Western fashion and beauty indus- average American woman. The re-
is derived from tries continues in America—despite sponse to Lizzi’s picture was so in-
the latin “bellitas,” the fact that, according to estimates tense and widespread that Glamour Artist Kelis has been admired for wearing her hair au natural (Image: Curlista)
which comes from from 2007, black women alone referenced it as sparking their “Body profile of the flapper. The flat boy- A small bust, however, was
the word “bellus,” spend over $20 billion on apparel Image Revolution.” It wasn’t just fe- ish figure exemplified by the flapper ideal during the Middle Ages, when
meaning “fair, pret- annually.3 male readers who were raving about style inspired women to bind their the coveted size was compared to
ty.” Beauty is said Indeed, body size and shape is the picture, but men writing in to re- breasts, slim down (diet) to get rid apples. Previous centuries showed
to inspire feelings paramount in the ubiquitous images quest “more like her!”5 Even more of their curves and undergo breast beautiful women as having minimal
of mental well-be- of what makes a woman desirable. glowing reactions appeared in over reduction surgery. By the 1930’s, chest development combined with a
ing and harmony. It The portrayal of a single body type 1,000 postings on Glamour.com all however, a full bust was back in bottom and upper thighs that were
is used to describe as the norm and standard also has joyously praising the picture.6 style. In fact, the bigger the better. rich in fat.11 In recent times this ide-
good looks, any a powerful impact on women of all Women have always been un- Some actresses acquired expen- al has been reversed, pairing a big
attractive feature; backgrounds. Throughout history, der pressure to attain their society’s sive breast implants, but they were bust with a narrow, androgynously
the quality which what is considered not only attrac- ideal of feminine beauty. The his- not discussed. By the 1950’s, a thin thin torso and hips. Both beauty ide-
makes an object tive, but, acceptable or tolerable, tory of beauty and examinations of woman with a large bust line was als, ironically, are not realistically
seem pleasing or has changed immensely. The shift in cross-cultural values show the ex- considered most attractive.7 8 Ideal attainable, because body fat is not
satisfying in a cer- perception during the past century treme measures taken by women American beauty in the 1950’s was naturally relegated to one half of a
tain way.” Beauty is towards desirable body shape has to live up to what, from an objective exemplified by full, pointed breasts, person’s body! In Brazil, women
also said to invoke been drastic. Marilyn Monroe ex- perspective, can sometimes seem and long legs, usually clad in high were traditionally expected to have
feelings of love and emplified the epitome of femininity capricious and inane ideas of attrac- heels. Breasts, not weight, were a fuller bottom and a smaller bust.
desire. It can also as shapely and busty in the 1950’s. tiveness. Defined in a given society the main point of concern to young For Brazilians, large breasts were re-
describe a particu- Being underweight, for the first time by an array of social, traditional and women.9 garded as vulgar in the past. Howev-
Lizzi Miller’s “body-image-revolution” (Image: Glamour)
lar graceful quality.2 in history, became the ideal in the historical elements, there is a sheer Modern actress Kiera Knight- er, in the last several years the Brazil-
estimate their attractiveness. Some It’s interesting to note that the Web- 1960’s, giving way to “heroin chic” trendiness associated with any ley, largely regarded as beautiful, ian beauty ideal has been influenced
studies have estimated that up to ster definition of beauty repeats the waif-like models such as Kate Moss mainstream image of beauty. has said she is very jealous of wom- by the American ideal, and breast
80% of adult women believe they word “fairness” and serves as part of a few decades later. The last half of For example, certain bust siz- en with long legs. “I hate my body. implants in Brazil have become larg-
are overweight and aim to achieve a the word’s origin, whereas today’s the 20th century found thinner and es have gone in and out of fashion I like so many other people’s bod- er and more popular.12
figure that is approximately two sizes Western culture idolizes tan skin. thinner figures in the spotlight— throughout American history. As the ies. I like legs—a good pair of legs During the Victorian era, the
smaller than the body size most men Though tans are portrayed as quite a contrast from the times when fashion, politics, industry and social on someone else always makes me ideal woman was soft and full—fig-
actually find desirable. The odds are desirable, it’s usually tan Caucasian softer, more curvaceous, voluptuous climate have changed (among other jealous!”10 Interestingly, with a flat ured. Corsets were used to minimize
that you are more attractive than you skin, which is shown in mainstream bodies were deemed the epitome of things), so has the desirable wom- chest and short legs, Kiera Knight- waists while simultaneously accentu-
think!1 Western culture—sometimes ex- femininity and sensuality. an’s body. By the 1920’s, the ideal ley’s features would be significantly ating the hips and buttocks. Corsets
Exploring different standards of tremely light complexioned minori- The September issue of last of a Victorian hourglass figure was undesirable by the beauty standards caused a variety of health problems
beauty presents a reality of diverse ties. The overwhelming portrayal year’s Glamour Magazine featured a replaced with the flat washboard of America in the 1950’s. related to breathing and digestion.

p34 sloane / spring 2010 p35 sloane / spring 2010

Wearing a corset constantly gradual-
ly altered the structure of a woman’s
body to fit the hourglass ideal, con-
torting a woman’s waist to the size
of a hand span after several years of
“tightlacing” and “corset training.” 13
In the Renaissance era (1400’s—
1600s), it was considered a sign of in-
telligence and beauty to have a high
forehead, which led women to pluck
their hairlines often halfway up the
scalp.14 This is exhibited in portraits
of Queen Elizabeth the 1st and in Da
Vinci’s Mona Lisa. Sometimes, the
plucking didn’t stop at the hairline
either—eyebrows were often com-
pletely eliminated. Other characteris-
tics of beauty in renaissance Europe
entailed a full figure with an ample
bosom, rounded abdomen, and wide
hips.15 The upper echelon of society
pursued porcelain skin, which was
viewed as a mark of modesty and
virtue. The ideal beauty combina-
tion was a white face with red lips
(symbolic of passion) and cheeks.
A pure white complexion, however,
is impossible for a healthy person
to attain naturally, so women used
various methods to whiten their skin,
some of which were dangerous and
even deadly. One popular technique
was the use of white lead powder,
(also used by the Ancient Roman’s
despite knowing it was potentially
lethal). Women all over Europe cov-
ered their faces, necks and chests
with lead powder.16
Thinness and pallor were signs
of illness in Russia, and were also
associated in Russian culture with
mean behavior, bad habits or de-
pravity. The similarity between bled-
nost (pallor) and bliadstvo (harlotry)
was noted in ecclesiastical texts.
Russian women aspired to a look of
p36 sloane / spring 2010
high contrast, with bright red cheeks
“like the color of poppies,” white
skin “like white snow,” clear, lus-
trous eyes “like a falcon,” and black
eyebrows “like a sable’s tail.” (Push-
kareva97) and (Kireyeva).
Modern Japanese women be-
lieve their skin is the key to true
beauty. Miki Okae, one of Japan’s
most famous beauty experts, says
the ideal is fair, smooth skin. “Ev-
eryone demands that,” she says.17
Creams claiming to lighten a per-
son’s complexion are very popular
in Japan. “You see a lot of products
that advertise whitening because
[Japanese women] want that porce-
lain, that very, very fair, light skin,”
says another expert.18
In contrast, half way around the
world, American women have been
sunbathing and going to tanning
beds fully aware of the likelihood of
skin cancer as a result. Fake-tanning
creams, tanning lotions and oils are
highly popular where the Western
ideal of beauty is browned skin. Not
only is tanning seen as fashionable,
but it is also thought of for many as
a way to relax. Last August the Inter-
national Agency for Research on Can-
cer moved tanning beds to its highest
cancer risk category, calling them “car-
cinogenic to humans.”19 The desire
for tanned skin and the use of tanning
beds has led some to a habit which is
difficult to break because the UV rays
cause endorphins to be released from
the brain; some people also experi-
ence not being able to tell when they
are “tan enough” leading to a spiraling
fixation.20
Similar to the “tanorexia” fixa-
tion, the modern Western ideal of
beauty has also been associated
with a preoccupation with cosmetic
surgery, sometimes even referred to
as “plastic surgery addiction”, which
demonstrates habitually seeking
cosmetic surgery.
Artists and architects of the Re-
naissance used an equation known
as the “golden ratio,” a mathemati-
cal finding that goes back to ancient
times, to design many works of art.
Modern scientists have adopted this
mathematical formula to explain why
some faces are considered beautiful.
Some researchers have determined
that we identify human facial beauty
using a very specific ratio called the
phi ratio or the “Golden Ratio.” We
look for a specific mathematical ra-
tio between the eyes, mouth, nose,
jaw, forehead, etc., and this ratio is
phi, or 1.618033… The symmetry
and the ratio of the proportion are
considered innately aesthetically
pleasing.21 Many studies claim the
golden ratio relates to an instinctual
attraction based on recognition of a
face as both human and healthy on
a primal biological level. Yet other
studies have proved that distinct fea-
tures which vary from the average
or most attractive, showing why ac-
tresses like Derryl Hannah, Penelope
Cruz, Sophia Loren, Meryl Streep,
Cate Blanchett, Uma Thurman and
Drew Barrymore are widely consid-
ered to be very beautiful women.
Appearances deviating from
the ideal or average are often seen
as highly alluring, and exotic inspira-
tions of intrigue. General character-
istics of attractiveness like lustrous
hair and smooth skin are also sym-
bolic of health and seem to serve
as qualities of attractiveness across
the board. Heather Locklear, re-
garded as an exceptionally beautiful
woman by modern standards, has
been quoted as saying, “There are face of fashion. Her
beautiful women, and then there’s tall, boyish figure,
me. I’ve seen this face in every mall with no breasts and
I’ve ever been in. I’m not that spe- no hips, was not
cial.”22 Some modeling agencies at all the Victorian
will not hire women who have had standard of beauty,”
nose jobs, and furthermore look for writes one of her
beauties with quirky and uniquely biographers.27 Dur-
admirable features. “A face that [is] ing a time when red
so beautiful, but not beautiful in a hair was often seen
sense that all America thinks it’s as a stigma associ-
beautiful…it’s the type of beautiful ated with the devil
that the fashion industry appreci- and witch-craft, her
ates and loves,” noted Tyra Banks, “coppery golden”
in discussing a contestant chosen hair was very influ-
for her show, America’s Top Model ential.28 Siddal be-
in 2005.23 came a trendsetter
One effect of a ubiquitous im- of the “aesthetic”
age of a white beauty ideal is the movement, and the
prominent practice of relaxing and typical fashionable
straightening naturally textured hair. aesthetic lady had
Additionally, in Japan, straight hair red hair (often en-
is considered “the norm,” and thus, hanced by henna), a
more attractive—so great lengths pale face, green eyes
are gone to in order to make hair and wore heelless
straight if it isn’t already.24 Histori- shoes. The idea of
cally, in West African culture, afros red hair was thought
were considered a distinctly femi- of as social suicide Suicide Girls fill the “alterna-girl” void online (Image: suicidegirls.com)
nine trait and black hair was very and her appearance
culturally important. Some African was both mimicked by trend fol- naissance with a series of tortured
nations viewed a woman’s afro as lowers and mocked in cartoons.29 love poems addressed to a mysteri-
being similar to the thickness of the In fact, while red hair has been per- ous “Dark Lady” whose true identity
forest, reflecting the identification of ceived as a mark of the devil and/or has never been revealed. Although
women with the Great Mother Earth a fiery temper in some cultures, hu- black hair is the most common
and female principle of God.25 mans have tried to redden their hair natural hair color, it is rarely found
Various hair colors have been in other societies for thousands of in Westerners, which may have giv-
viewed as enchanting, or distinctly years. Ancient Egyptians and North en black hair an air of mystery and
undesirable, in different times and Africans used henna, mineral com- glamour in modern western culture.
places. Ancient Egyptians dyed pounds, and other natural materials Those with very dark hair, natural or
their hair and wigs a variety of col- to go red.30 dyed, are often regarded as having a
ors, with blues, greens, blondes and Dark haired women have long uniquely exotic beauty.32
golds being their favored choices. In been perceived as possessing an un- Consider the use of man-made
ancient Greece many dyed their hair paralleled degree of sophistication, beauty enhancements to achieve
red with henna and sprinkled it with poise and intelligence. For decades, the appearance of a dream woman,
gold powder, often adorning it with women striving for respect and such as false eyelashes, fake nails,
fresh flowers.26 achievement have darkened their hair extensions, padded bras and,
Lizzie Siddal, was the model for hair because of these perceptions.31 of course, implants and plastic sur-
John Everett Millais famous paint- The romantic connotations of black gery and fake tans. Comparably, in
ing “Ophelia.” (1852). The red haired hair begin with the ancient Egyptian the country of Georgia during the
beauty was a muse to many artists ruler Cleopatra, who is believed to 17th century, high society women
and in her rejection of oppressive have enhanced the starkly black tint often donned false teeth, false hair,
Victorian standards of beauty she of her hair with henna and indigo. false bosoms and false calves. It was
set, rather than followed, a new Shakespeare immortalized the black thought beautiful to induce large
ideal of beauty. “She changed the haired beauty ideal during the Re- eyes, which they dilated by using
p37 sloane / spring 2010

1940’s sex symbol and Hollywood starlet, Rita Hayworth (Image: Suspensemovies.com)
belladonna extracted from the dead-
ly nightshade plant.33 Another pop-
ular beauty mark of the 1600’s was
the use of patches to cover small-
pox scars. Small dots of black taffeta
or velvet were shaped into symbols
such as stars and moons. This fash-
ion which began as a way to cover
up smallpox blemishes lasted well
into the 18th century and turned into
a mark of beauty and decoration.34
p38 sloane / spring 2010
terestingly, too, are counterculture
beauty queens like burlesque star
Dita Von Teese, who ignites beauty
ideals from the past, such as the
popularity of corsetry and other vin-
tage images. Images of the epitome
of feminine beauty are everywhere,
and they make for some of the most
prevalent symbols in our society. It
is nearly impossible to escape from
the idealized version of what a wom-
an is supposed to look like, what is
considered to be the norm, and what
is decidedly sexy. A glance into the
past and other cultures reveals how
subjective and changeable these
seemingly infallible visions of beau-
ty actually are. S
­—Amber Marie Hurwitz attended
American University’s School of
Public Affairs in Washington DC,
where she earned a bachelors de-
gree in Political Science. Amber got
her start as a professional writer
working as Associate Editor for Com-
munity Development Publications in
Silver Spring, MD. She covered leg-
islative updates on Capitol Hill and at
the National Press Club. Amber has
also written articles for female audi-
ences in numerous publications and
currently lives in Ithaca, NY where
she works as a freelance writer.
Modern beauty marks and
beauty art which does not conform
to a standard “ideal” can be seen to
take on their own terms of confor-
mity and beauty worship. Piercings
and tattoos, which could be consid-
ered marks of rebellion against ex-
pectations of female beauty, have
taken on their own cult of beauty
worship (for example the popular-
ity of the Suicide Girls models). In-
 Photographs by Felicity Byrne, Styling by Ashley Glorioso

S tep out of your

winter rut with beautiful layered
pieces that can easily be mixed
and matched to work for chilly
mornings, warmer afternoons
and nights on the town.
Kite and Butterfly jacket, Maggie
Ward tee, stylists own harness
and socks, Blue Life by Planet
Blue lace shorts, Deena and
Ozzy boots.
Literature Noir fringe Dress,
ReCollection black fringe Vest,
Cosabella Socks, Opening
Ceremony Boots, Elizabeth and
James (knife) necklace, others,
stylists own.
Society for Rational Dress cotton
and leather cardigan, Anne Valerie
Hash lace bustle, Louise Manna
body chain, Yfb slip, stylists own
socks, Opening Ceremony Boots,
Elizabeth & James cross ring, rose
gold rings Campise, other rings
stylists own.
Vintage bra, Myne skirt,
Bulgari gold ring, long silver
ring Soixante Neuf, cross ring
Elizabeth and James, rose gold
spike and diamond band both
Campise, necklaces stylists own.
Kite and Butterfly Jacket,
ReCollection silk top, Elizabeth
and James shorts, Jennifer Shon
body chain, Free People leather
gladiator sandals, ReCollection
cotton bra.
Kite and Butterfly top, Yfb slip,
Free People sandals, BB Brush
necklace, vintage hat from
Screaming Mimi’s NYC.
Elizabeth and James Blazer,
Fluxus T-shirt, Kettle Black
studded Bustier, Splendid Bike
Shorts, Deena and Ozzy Boots,
socks and necklaces and bracelet,
stylists own.
ReCollection flannel shirt, vintage
bra, Herve Leger skirt, Louise
Manna chain suspenders, Deena
and Ozzy boots
 Photographys by Elkie Vanstiphout
Model’s own jacket,
Styling by Suzie Vanstiphout
New Look shoes.
 T he land that bore us
Audrey Hepburn and Rene
Magritte has a new breed of
beauty to share. Take a tip from
the young women strutting the
streets of Brussells—mix and
match unique vintage finds with
affordable off the rack pieces for
a unique look you won’t see on
anyone else.

Zara jacket, American Apparel

dress, vintage belt.
Zara jacket, American Apparel
dress, vintage belt.
THIS PAGE: Model’s own jacket,
American Apparel jumpsuit,
New Look shoes.

LEFT: All pieces vintage.

Model’s own jacket, Urban
Outfitters bra, top and belt
vintage.
All pieces vintage.
THIS PAGE: All pieces vintage.

vintage shops in Brussels:

Episode, Rue de la Violette 28
Sussies, Rue Du Lombard 74
Foxhole Vintage, Rue des Riches-
Claires 4

Click for More vintage

shops in Brussels
 Photographs by Chloe Aftel
Styling, Djuna Bel / Hair & Makeup, Megumi Wakabayashi

Ray Ban Sunglasses, Chloe Top.

N othing celebrates a
women’s form quite like beautiful
lingerie. These vintage inspired,
flirty pieces are sure to wake you
(and your mate) up to languish in
the change of season.

See by Chloe top, Maiden’s Belt

panties by Strumpet and Pink,
ROSEARK necklace (designer,
Diana Orr).
See by Chloe top, Maiden’s Belt
panties by Strumpet and Pink,
ROSEARK necklace (designer,
Diana Orr).
See by Chloe top, Maiden’s Belt
panties by Strumpet and Pink,
ROSEARK necklace (designer,
Diana Orr).
Garden of Delights panties
by Strumpet and Pink
BOTH PAGES: Rosy Posy
Posy Rosy panties by
Strumpet and Pink
Christian Dior vintage glasses,
Fox and Fawn vintage tulle
crinoline
Fox rhoncus
nec and Fawnvitae,
vintage
ultrices
tulle et
lacus. Maecenas ultrices velit sed
crinoline.
eros volutpat ac consectetur mi
elementum. Pellentesque urna
massa, tincidunt ut dictum quis,
tempor id dui. Nullam sodales,
arcu non pharetra luctus, dui velit
pharetra metus, nec imperdiet
est nisl suscipit nisl. Nulla ac
interdum eros. Vivamus id elit vel
tellus feugiat mollis. Donec sus-
cipit libero nec velit elementum
sodales. Vivamus vel neque quis

The Lake Shore Limited, Sue Miller’s
first novel since her phenomenal
bestseller The Senator’s Wife, is
about how tragedy and fate affects
our lives individually. The catalyst
for this heart-wrenching novel is a
terrorist attack on a train, similar in
scope and reminiscent of the public
mourning of 9/11. Four unforgettably
authentic characters allow readers
into their imperfect lives and into the
deep emotional landscape of their
hopes and fears. The lives of each
character intersect at poignant mo-
ments captured with the grace and
simplicity of pitch-perfect prose that
only Sue Miller is capable of creat-
ing. This novel is certain to strike an
emotional chord with readers every-
where. (The Lake Shore Limited by
Sue Miller, Knopf, April 6, 2010)
p88 sloane / spring 2010
Often characterized as a chick-lit
writer, Anna McPartlin’s latest novel,
Alexandra, Gone, offers much more
emotional depth than is often found
between the candy-colored covers
of her contemporaries. McPartlin
tackles regret, fear, loss and heart-
break in her very readable and cap-
tivating novel. This story centers
on the disappearance of Alexandra
Kavanaugh and the effect it has on
her family and friends. Four people
discover themselves while search-
ing for a lost friend. (Alexandra,
Gone by Anna McPartlin, Downtown
Press, April 13, 2010)
Kristin von Ogtrop is the editor of
Real Simple and spends her life
helping people simplify their lives.
What we discover in her debut
memoir/self-help dictionary, Just
Let Me Lie Down: Necessary Terms
for the Half-Insane Working Mom, is
that her life (and the lives of women
everywhere) is anything but simple.
Kristin handles the obstacles and
pitfalls of mixing motherhood and
career with humor, grace and last
but not least, simplicity. Any wom-
an who has ever found themselves
tethered to their Blackberry, unable
to keep their life in order and always
struggling to find the elusive “bal-
ance” they keep hearing about, will
find Kristin’s words to be a soothing
antidote to their worries. This is a
woman who has been there, done
that and written humorously and
honestly about it along the way. (Just
Let Me Lie Down: Necessary Terms
for the Half-Insane Working Mom by
Kristin von Ogtrop, Little, Brown and
Company, April 1, 2010)
Elizabeth Berg writes with such
fluid grace and honesty that when
reading one of her novels you truly
feel like you are listening to a close
friend. Berg’s latest, The Last Time I
Saw You, is no different. This novel
centers on a fortieth high school
reunion. The story is told from the
points of view of five classmates,
each with very different high school
experiences, each seeking answers
to very different questions. The
characters in this heartfelt novel
come to the reunion carrying their
burdens of regret, fear, loss and ulti-
mately hope and curiosity. As in life,
the answer’s each classmate seeks
will bring about a newfound joy and
hope that only Berg can deliver with
exquisite detail and an incompa-
rable attention to dialogue. The Last
Time I Saw You will have you calling
up old high school memories and
reconnecting with long lost friends.
(The Last Time I Saw You by Eliza-
Falling Off the Wagon
Another cold day in the office. Cold Here I sit, stomach feeling a little un-
enough to drive me to flee to Star- easy, reminding me why I stopped
bucks for a Venti Caramel Macchiato. drinking these things in the first
place. The Venti cup stands high,
Starbucks and I are in an abusive re- proud; he knows that he has won
lationship. today. I tell him that I don’t want
to see him ever again. He casts a
I haven’t been drinking coffee for smug glance in my direction, insu-
some time now. The caffeine was lating sleeve pulled high, because
disagreeing with my stomach, and he knows I won’t leave for long. The
my penchant for the polysyllabic weather will turn cold again, or an
drinks filled with sugar and dairy early morning will catch up with
definitely played a part in the 30+ me…And he will be waiting.
pound weight gain while in Seattle.
With whipped cream on top.
But this morning, I was too cold to
care about the ill effects I might have
to suffer. Hot frothy goodness was
calling to me. There was no fighting
its siren song; my strength had been
sapped from trying to stay warm for
the past several hours.
(Sidenote: Ladies, have you ever no-
ticed that when you are cold, it always
seems to be your hands and feet that
are the coldest? I know you are think-
ing, “Duh, those are like, almost the
only parts that aren’t covered.” You
are now also wondering why I made
you all sound like dumb valley girls.
The point is, scientists believe that
the female body is wired to send all
the heat available in the body to the
midsection, to protect the womb.
This is why when I stick my cold feet
on my husband’s side of the bed he
yells at my stomach, “There is no
baby!!” Also, he is crazy.)

Image: Jevett Photos

p90 sloane / spring 2010


Image: munfitnessblog.com
Image: modestocourtroom.net
p92 sloane / spring 2010
Feature:
BODYPUMP
created by Les Mills
Power to Venus and Serena on the
courts, but while we want to be stron-
ger, we don’t necessarily want to be
bigger. Over time, these thoughts
have morphed into the gym phobia
that says by increasing the weight
we lift, we’ll increase the number
we see on the scale and the tag in
our jeans. All the while, our desire to
have toned Mrs. Obama arms con-
tinues to tempt us back to the weight
room.
“You have a handbag that you pick up
every day that can weigh around 25
pounds; your body can handle more
than a 3 pound weight at the gym,”
says Lexi Fournier, personal trainer
and group exercise instructor, who is
certified by The American College of
Sports Medicine and has worked with
leading health clubs throughout Bos-
ton, Massachusetts, for over six years.
“The most prominent fear of women at
the gym is bulking—this anxiety over
getting big by lifting weights—and it’s
simply a myth.”
The truth about lifting: when done
properly with weights that challenge
your muscles (no more 3 pounders!),
it will burn fat by boosting metabo-
lism, building lean muscle, improving
balance and posture, and changing
your entire body composition. More
muscle means a faster metabolism,
which translates as more calories
burnt (even when you’re sitting at
home indulging in Real Housewives
of New York City on the couch).
“You have a handbag that you pick up every
day that can weigh around 25 pounds; your
body can handle more than a 3 pound weight
at the gym...”
Images: lesmills.com
Fournier has three suggestions: a
body fat test prior to beginning your
exercise regimen, working with a
trainer or in group exercise classes,
and finally, the “Pants Don’t Lie” rule.
Your local gym can give you a body
fat test that will show your body’s
lean and fat masses. This will serve
as a benchmark for your progress.
Women ages 25-45, should be
around 25-30% body fat.
Then comes the actual work.
Enter, the world-renowned BodyPUMP.
BodyPUMP is a 60-minute, group fit-
ness program that works the eight
major muscle groups through the
use of free weights, barbells, plates,
and aerobics. Upbeat (think Ameri-
can Idol meets stadium sports meets
90s nightclub) music keeps the class
moving at a uniform pace, so you’re
lifting correctly but also getting the
p93 sloane / spring 2010
most bang for your gym-time-buck. be the best marker of your progress,
“Group exercise is great because it and will fit so perfectly to your firm
feels like an appointment. There’s a tush that you could bounce a quar-
set time, you’re there to work, and ter off of them. s
if you don’t go, someone might no-
tice,” says Fournier.
When you’re in a group exercise
class like BodyPUMP, picking your
weights wisely is crucial. Fournier
recommends testing out weights
with the following criteria: if you can
do more than 12 repetitions easily,
it’s too light; if you can’t do more
than 8 repetitions, it’s too heavy.
After six to eight weeks of your new
exercise regimen, you might be
tempted to step back on a scale to
see your progress. Instead, take an-
other body fat test. Or, just try your
jeans back on. Here’s why: Muscle
weighs more than fat—it’s smaller
and denser, and therefore confounds
the scales. Your jeans, however, will
 by Jennifer Guinn
As the title implies, 2010, the 75th
edition of the Whitney Biennial is
deliberately restrained, defined
overwhelmingly by its time, and
an inverse of the institution’s prior
bombastic, sprawling editions. As
Recycle - Reuse - Repurpose the mission statement declares, the
aim is to give a “cross section” rath-
er than an overview of the state of
Unique Tote Bags & Pillows contemporary American art, and to
“underscore the idea of time as an
Handmade from Vintage Fabrics. element of the Biennial and to dem-
onstrate the influence of the past”
within which the artists establish “di-
Painted Cottage Furniture verse responses to the anxiety and
and Accessories for Your Home. optimism” of our era. Co-curated by
Francesco Bonami and Gary Carrion-
1.
www.calicocollections.com
Wholesale - Retail
Murayari, this exhibition has been mark our world and be conscious
labeled the “Women’s Biennial” with of the weight of heritage—what we
an unprecedented majority of the perpetuate and leave behind for the
represented artists women, as well generations to come. It is this reck-
as an unusually high inclusion of es- oning heralded by the Biennial and
tablished artists and painters, creat- its espousal of traditionally feminine
ing a more intimate, physical and lay-
ered feel. Interestingly, it is the pared
themes which marks a significant
2.
down approach that along with the
strength of the artwork manifests the
impact of the varied yet cohesive and
interwoven dialogue.
Of the women’s contributions, some
of the strongest also best exem-
plify the concept of time: legacy,
ephemerality, identity, transition,
regeneration. Many of
the works give as much
weight to the tangential
theme of space, both pri-
vate and public, in order
to communicate ideas of
interiority, community,
vulnerability and dignity.
Walking among the gal-
leries, one is struck by
the highly personal and
specific nature of the shift within the contemporary mood
works, the overall ab- about gender associations, the col-
sence of irony and sexu- lective unconscious and hierarchy.
ality, the smallness in size
and simplicity of many Two of the few works included
of the selections. This which do explore sexuality to il-
subtlety is a bit of a trick, lustrate identity in very different
however, and along the ways are Aurel Schmidt’s Master
course of the exhibition of the Universe/FlexMaster 3000
an impressive discourse and Dawn Clements’, Mrs. Jessica
develops about who we Drummond’s (My Reputation,1945).
are in this day and age, Aurel Schmidt, with her humorous
our struggle to overcome and bizarre drawing of the trash-
our limits, to define and composed minotaur, has become
distinguish ourselves, to something of the Biennial’s it-girl.
1. Aurel Schmidt, Master of the Universe/FlexMaster 3000
2. Dawn Clements, Mrs. Jessica Drummond’s (My Reputation, 1945)
3.
The young artist’s tongue-in-cheek
image of the man-beast, his body
constructed of refuse (including cig-
arettes, beer cans, condoms, vase-
line, and a Blackberry), straddles a
number of opposing ideas: mascu-
linity and impotence, beauty and ug-
liness, life and decay. Alternatively,
Clements’ wry, intricate ink drawing
of a woman’s boudoir, replicated in
sections from the 1940s film about
a “fallen woman” who has taken up
with a soldier following the death of
her husband confronts the construct
of womanhood as a trap, a prison.
The panoramic view into her life and
objects is both highly detailed yet in-
complete: working from film stills,
Clements reproduces images that
are side-by-side yet non-continuous,
taken from different angles, deliber-
ately fragmented. Both works dem-
onstrate the limitations of gender
identity, the inherent contradictions
of traditional roles (the impotent
beast, the sexualized woman), and
fuse the modern (recycling, repro-
duction) with the past (mythological
beast, antique belongings).
Interpretations of American identity
3. Tam Tran, Battle Cry
4. Maureen Gallace, Cape Cod, Early September
p96 sloane / spring 2010
(continued)
arrive in varying media: photogra-
phy, painting, and sculpture. In Tam
Tran’s series, Raising Hell, her young,
pajama-clad nephew fights off an
imaginary foe armed with cape and
broomstick, the photographs alter-
nately capturing the forceful warrior
and the little boy with his outsized
weapons. Maureen Gallace’s small
paintings of New England homes at
first glance seem dainty and pasto-
ral but the lack of any facade detail-
ing on the homes gives them a sub-
versive undertone; they are missing
their inhabitants and any means of
entry or view, merely semblances
of a home, insubstantial and ex-
clusionary, Norman Rockwell via
the Twilight Zone. Jessica Jackson
Hutchins’ sculptural work, Couch For
a Long Time, consists of 4.
a sofa from her childhood
living room which the art-
ist “reupholstered” with
newspaper articles about
Barack Obama occupied
by awkward ceramic ob-
jects positioned on the
cushions as stand-ins
for the family, the po-
litical encroaching on the
importance of family or
home. Each demonstrates
through distillations of
American iconography—
superheroes, regionalism,
family identity/childhood
memories—the disparity
between how things look
and how things are.
Finally, there are the (re-)construc-
tions: the reclaimed statue, the
found-art environment, the dream-
world tapestry. Huma Bhabha’s to-
temic piece, My Skull Is Too Small,
made of detritus looks ominous
and dreary at first glance, but mar-
ries the dystopian with hopefulness
in that this reconstituted object of
decay finds new life in the creature
that semblance makes of it, a survi-
vor’s character study. Aki Sasamo-
to’s Strange Attractors installation
uses science as a springboard (the
Lorenz Attractor, a fractal structure in
a dynamic system) upon which the
artist’s interactions with the artificial
environment transcend the ordinary
into something new: a performance
art version of Pollock’s action paint-
ing, controlled but playful chaos. Pae
White’s exquisite tapestry creation
Still, Untitled, almost painful not to
touch, combines digital photography
with the loom to result in a lustrous,
evocative large-scale textural work.
The ephemeral smoke wisps curl and
dance along the surface in a cool,
sensual depiction of fleeting meta-
morphosis, which the artist describes
as the “fabric’s dream of becoming
something else.” All three commu-
nicate our transience, the longing to
be protean and timeless, our human
need to personify the natural world
and be less alien to ourselves, one
another and our environments.
So, what does the demographics
profile of this “Women’s Biennial”
say about the state of American con- strain that runs through their works’ 6.
temporary art, in particular, as well messages is about what it means to
as a larger possible paradigm shift be an American and an artist; female
in our society? The female artists in- artists now have the advantage of
cluded in the show are both Ameri- hard-won equality and get to move
5. beyond the gender
narrative to represent
society and make per-
sonal messages that
are universal—what it
means to be human,
not what it means to
be a woman.
Our time is an era
marked by stagnation
as much as change,
floundering in war
and recession, so-
can born and immigrants, ages cially discontinuous, technologically silient, quietly willful vision, making
ranging from early twenties to mid dominated. While much of the art in the otherness into something beau-
seventies, and of varying ethnicities this year’s Biennial is psychologically tiful and dignified. The Biennial feels
and socioeconomic backgrounds. weighty, the pervasive mood is one of hopeful because it shows progress
strength: of rising to meet challeng- is being made despite our problems,
The most significant and evident es, the idiosyncrasies of personality, and while the naysayers love to ar-
change in their artworks is that of making patterns out of the chaos, gue about the medium’s irrelevance
they aren’t hampered by or advo- moving away from passivity to resus- and politics, the curators found a way
cating their femaleness or the gen- citate, to reconsider, 7.
der war; the images of women by to bring life back to
women where found here are fluid the realm of the es-
and what one encounters at 2010 is sential. The women
a focus on form, style and experi- artists in 2010 have
mentation with techniques. These moved beyond the
women stand comfortably on the gender war to fo-
shoulders of giants because of the cus on larger, uni-
last seventy years’ toiling of other versal issues while
women who fought to have a voice still communicating
and place for themselves within the them in intimate,
institutions and markets of the mod- intuitive, sensitive
ern to contemporary art world. The works; these con-
curators were in a position to include tributions speak
more work by women because more of people uncom-
women are able to work as artists fortable in, unsettled by their world, to redeem and make the show fresh
now, they chose works based on their but determined to examine it, in on again by taking it back to the basics:
strengths and scope rather than topi- the joke. The show celebrates a new good art. s
cality, and we, as the audience, get a breed and mood in contemporary
more interesting, representative and American art: adeptly integrating Images: Whitney Museum
accessible show and dialogue. The old and new, positing an holistic, re- of American Art.
5. Jessica Jackson Hutchins, Couch For a Long Time 7. Pae White, Smoke Knows
6. Huma Bhabha, My Skull Is Too Small
p97 sloane / spring 2010
arts 1.

up to the transgres-
sive theme of this
year’s title, No Guts
No Glory. Stand-
outs for me: GL
Brierley’s metamor-
phosing forms at
Madder139, Anita
Beckers’ booth for
Maria Jose Arjona’s
performance, Israeli
artists Yuval Pudik’s
hybrid collages at
Kim Light/LightBox
and Tamara Kosti-
anovsky hanging
meat fabric sculp-
tures at Y Gallery.

Scope, over at the

by Jennifer Guinn
If you are an art world insider or art
enthusiast then Armory Arts Week
(AAW) is fast becoming the pin-
nacle, amassing the largest, most
impressive and diverse collection of
international contemporary fine art
for one week each spring in NYC.
Despite the U.S. economic collapse
over the last couple of years, AAW
reported record attendance for 2010
and good sales, though the ostensi-
bly lowered pricing surely accounts
for some of the resurgence in the
art market. This year, new satellite
fairs announced themselves—Inde-
pendent, the Korean Art Show and
Dutch Art Now—alongside familiar
fairs like ADAA Art Show, Pulse,
Scope, Volta, and smaller, less struc-
tured and market-driven ones like
Fountain, Pool, Verge and Red Dot.
Furthermore, this year the activities
were expanded across the boroughs
with galleries open late, lectures and
tours, installations, performances,
and parties. Inarguably, if you can
only make it to one, the Armory is
the “grande dame” in terms of scale,
professionalism and diversity, but
the smaller fairs feature a broader
range of lesser-known artists, are
more collaborative and willing to
take risks, and give new collectors
opportunities for relatively afford-
able buys that the Armory does not.
The the twelfth edition of the Armory
Show was the largest yet with nearly
300 galleries from over 30 countries
and showcased some of the best art-
Image: The Armory Show
work I saw all week, especially in Pier
94 which housed the contemporary.
While Pier 92 showed many estab-
lished names with appropriately lofty
price tags, I found the overall selection
not as impressive as I’d anticipated,
though there were singular standouts
in recent pieces like Joan Mitchell’s
Red Tree at Hollis Taggert, and Rob-
ert Rauschenberg’s collage, Mirthday
Man at Faurschou. Overall, the New
York galleries and some of the German
had the strongest offerings, but the in-
termingled periods made calling Pier
92 the “modern” somewhat of a mis-
nomer. Pier 94, however, was stron-
ger and more heterogeneous than I
had expected, many galleries focused
on single-artist representation which
kept it from feeling overwhelming,
and photography and painting were
prominent. Jessica Rankin’s luminous
Dark Star at Carlier Gebauer became
one of my favorite finds of the week;
the artist’s “embroidery painting” on
organdy creates translucent, floating
thought—transitory, personal, and
abstract. There was the “cross-pol-
lination” of MOMA-feature Marina
Abramovic and Whitney Biennial’s
James Casebere at Sean Kelly, as with
other Biennial artists Dawn Clements
at Pierogi and Maureen Gallace at
303. The new addition, Armory Focus,
this year featured 22 Berlin galleries,
a savvy statement since the Berlin art
scene is known for its idiosyncratic
and daring nature; perhaps wary of
becoming obsolete the organizers
are looking to associate the fair with
bold counterparts for inspiration and
support.
1. Alex Prager, Rachel and Friends (from the Week-end series)
2. Evol, Hof 4, Gerichtstr
Volta, the sister-fair to the Armory
and an invitational show which
complements the Armory’s struc-
ture with its carryover of the single-
artist focus. Volta is much smaller
in scale and approachable; many of
the artists were on-hand at the gal-
leries to speak about their work and
had editorial input on their represen-
tation in the catalogue, significantly
more collaborative in process and
presentation than a fair the size of
the Armory can afford to be. Volta,
to me, felt cool and more European
in its aesthetic, and somewhat dark.
The crowd was more hip and less
Louboutin-ed than the Armory, the
champagne less prevalent and the
prices more accessible. This show is
the American version of the success-
ful Volta Basel begun in 2005 but this
year felt a little safe, not quite living
light-suffused space
at Lincoln’s Damros-
ch Park, about which
I was most intrigued
by the program in-
cluding film, fashion
and an auction of opportunities/
mentorship for young artists, but this
ambitious interdisciplinary approach
needs to be better integrated to feel
more finished. The film room in the
back seemed an impromptu addition
and was too small, the “sweet shop”
bus out front had no one around but
the nonplused driver (artist?) and
the fashion exhibit in the annex got
little traffic despite being a collabo-
ration with Chicks on Speed--again,
German, and renowned for imagina-
tive work. Scope was friendlier and
more Pop than Volta—more L.A. less
L.E.S.— and less resonant for it. Fa-
vorites here for me were the Asian
and Italian galleries/artists for their
high quality and formalism: Kwang
Sung Park and Doyang Zu with their
large-scale abstractions at Gallery
Yeh, Fulvio di Piazza’s biomorphic

p98 sloane / spring 2010 p99 sloane / spring 2010

(continued)
painting at Bonelli ArteContempo-
ranea Mantova. I was most pleased
to see the popular art inclusion of
R.Crumb, Robert Williams (also in
the Whitney Biennial), and Evol—
the last of which, a German street
artist, showed some of the freshest
works around: spray paintings with
stencils on cardboard done so deftly
they transcend photo-realism.
From the entrance in, Pulse NY ex-
hibited a marked shift in seriousness-
-the selected artists more confident
in technique, mature in style and
with distinctive points of view. While
2.
there was no imposed thematic ap-
proach, the element of sound fig-
ured into some of the works, espe-
cially the site-specific installations. I
have many favorites from this show
but to highlight a few: Alex Prager’s
p100 sloane / spring 2010
subversive photographs at M + B, follow the focus on Berlin? This fair
Miki Taira’s glass-encased creatures could supplant Art Basel Miami’s es-
and Chiharu Nishizawa’s twist on tra- teemed position. If satellite fairs like
ditional Japanese painting at Tokyo Pulse further distinguish themselves
Gallery + BTAP, Julian Lwin’s Stasis as the platforms for new talent by
installation of static-filled tvs (a de- keeping the fairs distinctive, fresh
ceptively simple commentary on the and intimate, the Armory may prove
endless utility value, noise and pro- to be the old guard: the staid, over-
duction of garbage in our lives). Of blown affair that has little bearing
all the satellite fairs, this one felt the on or connection to the emerging
most thought-out, relevant in con- art scene, more market- than artist-
tent and engaging. Pulse showed driven with little to offer but “good
that it is not necessary to feature a buys.” Finally, the competition and
specific theme or region in order to recession recovery could continue
make a fair cohesive, instead show- to drive down prices, force galler-
ing how the spirit of democratiza- ies to work harder internationally for
tion—an international roster of ex- discoveries and the fairs to become
hibitors presenting more innovative, daring and inter-
high quality works active, and ultimately change the
of widely varying hierarchy of the art market/world.
media, scale and More immediately, December will
style from both reveal whether or not the Miami
emerging and fairs acknowledge the challenge and
known artists—can endeavor to steal the attention back
be used to accen- from New York. s
tuate the integrity
and differences of ­ Jennifer Guinn studied German
—
the artwork show- and Austrian fin de siecle art and
cased. culture at the University of Texas
at Austin. She lived in Germany
As the recession for a few years after her studies
levels off, we shall and is now back in the US, living in
see how AAW Brooklyn. She spends as much time
evolves through as possible looking at and writing
the formation of about art and is currently at work on
new fairs, collabo- her first book of essays.
rations with differ-
ent institutions and
scenes abroad and
within New York,
and what the com-
petition means for
Miami’s fairs. It was
a pragmatic move
by the Armory this year highlighting
some of the same artists featured in
the Whitney Biennial and opening
within a week of one another, and
with this mutualism and new pro-
grams like Armory Focus—what will
 T ania del Rio is a gradu-
ate of the Minneapolis College of
Art and Design with a BFA in ani-
mation. In 2003, her manga entry,
Lovesketch, was selected to ap-
pear in TOKYOPOP’s Rising Stars
of Manga Anthology, Volume 2.
She quickly moved on to working
for Archie Comics as the writer
and artist for the comic Sabrina
the Teenage Witch, a monthly
comic that was given a complete
shoujo manga makeover in 2004.
Over the course of 5 years she
completed 42 issues, ending the
series with issue #100.

Del Rio has also done additional

work for Archie, including work
on, Sonic the Hedgehog, Josie
and the Pussycats, and on the
forthcoming Cheryl Blossom and
Katy Keene. During this time she
also did some writing for Marvel
on Spider Man/Arana Special:
The Hunter Revealed, and edited
the Mangaka America book featur-
ing some of the hottest emerging
North American manga artists.

She currently resides in Los An-

geles with her two corgis and
husband, award-winning graphic
designer, Will Staehle. Del Rio’s
personal projects include the web
comic, My poorly Drawn Life, and
a Victorian-inspired art business,
The Bazaarium, she runs with her
husband.

p103 sloane / spring 2010

 Q What has your
experience been like working in
a traditionally male-dominated in-
dustry? 

While comics is still a primarily

male-dominated field, I think it’s
easier for a woman to break into
the industry than ever before. The
manga boom helped a lot with
that because there was a sudden
influx of shoujo comics aimed at
girls specifically, and more girls
started getting into comics for the
first time.

This created more of a market

for female creators to step in and
make the kinds stories that girls
would want to read. In addition,
Archie comics, unlike some of
the other major publishers, has
always had a high percentage of
female readers, so I was already
working in a very supportive envi-
ronment where I had a lot of cre-
ative freedom to tell a girl-oriented
story filled with magic, romance,
and adventure.

I feel fortunate to be a creator in

this field, not necessarily because I
happen to be female, but because
the industry itself is extremely
competitive regardless of one’s
gender. At the end of the day, it’s
all about making a good story and
creating good art, and I take pride
in the fact that I’ve been able to
make comics for an audience that
has largely been overlooked by
the industry.  

p105 sloane / spring 2010

Q You seem to have
an interesting partnership/collab-
oration with your husband—how
has your life’s direction and pro-
fession helped you to redefine the
“traditional” idea of marriage and
home life? 

We met in our freshman year of

art school and our relationship
has always been very collabora-
tive, art-wise. While we were still
in school, we formed an LLC to
self-publish our comics that we
would sell at conventions during
the summer. I guess you could say
our marriage was never set up to
be a “traditional” one, despite the
fact that my husband works at an
office, and I work from home. Nei-
ther of us would be content with
me being solely a homemaker.

Personally, it’s important to me

to contribute to the household in-
come, even though comics doesn’t
pay well. As for my husband, he
has always pushed me to have the
most successful career that I can.
Whenever freelance is slow, he
encourages me to take advantage
of the time to work on my own art
projects. Given that I am home
most of the time, I do tend to take
care of most of the household
chores, but to be honest, I dis-
like housework and cooking. That
said, he hates it even more than I
do, so I take it on as a way to give
him time to work on his personal
art projects when he gets home
from the day job. It’s almost like
we take “shifts” where we give
each other time and space to cre-
ate art. I think that’s what a good
marriage is all about - supporting
your partner individually while
collaborating on common goals.

p107 sloane / spring 2010

“It’s the worst thing… getting old,”
an elder Persian man uttered in my
direction. I was sitting on a bench in
front of the Beverly Glen Deli staring
up at the clouds. He was dressed in
a racer’s biking uniform stretching
out his hamstrings with the assis-
tance of a near by trash can.
“These guys,” he continues point-
ing to a table of men similarly dress,
“can all ride 30 miles and just sit, and
order pancakes and eggs and sau-
sages. I have to stretch, or I won’t be
able to walk for a week.”
Looking at him, I began to wonder
if it was the aging that is so bad, or
is it that as we get older, we begin
to notice the things in our lives that
are lacking and that really matter like
purpose and love.
But, aging is a difficult thing, for
women in particular. I see it ev-
eryday on the faces of women my
age—and even younger–who, have
already begun to have their skin,
peeled, pulled and pricked. To me,
they all begin to look alike, and I’m
reminded of Nicole Kidman in the
movie Stepford Wives.
I am fortunate that at 36 the only
effects of aging that I feel are hang-
overs now lasting 3 days rather than
three hours, hips that are soar after a
day-long hike, and noticeable laugh-
lines around my eyes that are, how-
ever slowly, turning into wrinkles.
While I may not opt for injections of
Botox or Restylane, I do use the best
creams I can afford. I have also (mi-
raculously) given up coffee for Mat-
cha tea (anti-aging properties!) The
p108 sloane / spring 2010
thought of going under the knife,
however, makes my stomach feel as
though it’s crawling up the back of
my throat.
Ironically, I come from a family that
embraces and encourages plastic
surgery. My mother had her nose and
boobs “done” when I was 4, her eyes
“done” when I was 14, and her face
lifted when I was 26. Most of my aunts
and cousins have had similar surger-
ies; some of the men have had work
done too (boob jobs excluded).
So: why does my body have such a
visceral reaction to the thought of do-
ing the same? Perhaps it was seeing
the aftermath of my mother’s face lift
surgery: the swelling, the pain, and
sitting up while sleeping. Or perhaps
it’s that I suspect that my relatives
would look just as beautiful without
any of the surgeries. Or perhaps it’s
that I really want to believe what my
parent’s taught me as a child: ”It’s
what’s on the inside that counts.”
Honestly, thus far, I love getting old-
er. With each year that passes, I birth
a new part of myself that I never
knew existed. At 30, I started creat-
ing collages, at 33, I started writing
poetry, and at 35, I started sharing it
with people.
My boyfriend often says that he be-
lieves that death could be our great-
est adventure. I think the same could
be true about aging. s
—Ginna Christensen is an organic
foods aficionado, avid cook, blogger,
and the founder of 27ground.com,
a custom rug manufacturer based
in Los Angeles, CA.
When I was growing up, my father any given day. Yoga was my peace,
constantly told me, “Make friends my quiet—it is that for most yogis,
with everyone; never limit yourself I think.
to one group or one way of think-
ing.” Perhaps this mentality is why More often than not, I strode into the
my father’s high school senior class studio, dropped my mat, and laid
voted him most popular. down, rested my eyes, my mind,
and my body before standing up
My father’s words stuck with me. and working for 90 silent minutes. I
Throughout high school, I had my ath- had no interest in “making friends”
lete friends, my fellow English junkies, or becoming buddies with my fellow
as well as the pretty, popular, partying yogis—I kept to myself. As did most
girls with whom I’d known and with everyone else. And, frankly, I liked it
whom I’d socialized with since sixth that way.
grade. Different weekends went to
hanging out with different groups, These days, it’s a different story.
and I prided myself on being able to
walk into any classroom or get-to- The proof? My new friends from
gether and feel comfortable because yoga.
I was friendly with most everyone.
What can I say? I have always been Recently, I met up with two fellow
my father’s daughter. yogis for a class at a studio I don’t
normally attend, led by a teacher
Throughout my twenties, my ability whose classes I don’t often make.
to make friends didn’t wane, but I cer- We spent weeks e-mailing and ar-
tainly chose more selectively. Time ranging this get-together—a 10 a.m.
is precious; I can only give so much “boot camp” class with a notoriously
love and attention to so many people. tough teacher, followed by an indul-
And, admittedly, these days I give a gent brunch. On my walk to the stu-
lot of time to my yoga practice. dio, my stomach flipped excitedly a
few times. Yoga with friends! What
Considering how many hours I spend a rare treat!
in the yoga studio, you’d think I’d
have made a real yoga friend or two I can’t say much for my practice that
by now. morning—10 a.m. is an odd time
for me to hit the yoga mat. In hind-
The truth? Not really. sight, I should have woken up early
enough to eat a light breakfast be-
When I first started Bikram yoga, cause my blood sugar was too low.
I was too caught in my own head Although I didn’t feel my best, my
and my own practice to think about two friends fed me great servings of
those around me. My studio stood their own strength, focus, and calm,
Graphic: Kristian Goddard as a safe, quiet, peaceful refuge, cool steadiness. They helped me re-
in which I didn’t have to make idle member to smile, to shrug it off, to
chit-chat, or be “outgoing,” or be let go. They carried me through…
anything other than how I felt on As friends oftentimes do.
p109 sloane / spring 2010
(continued)
Afterward, we faced the cold and
walked to a nearby restaurant for
brunch. Great conversation ensued,
the kind that happens between new
friends, the kind that carries itself in
a rush of shared stories interrupted
with fits of laughter and a flurry of
follow-up questions. We covered
yoga, of course, as well as house
renovations, fashion, blogging, nutri-
tion, Amsterdam, American medical
practices, outdoor markets, English
cuisine, and child-proofing a home.
And then, after two decadent hours
of visiting, eating, and giggling, we
gave one another tight hugs and
made promises to plan another
yoga-and-brunch date soon.
I stumbled home exhausted, elated,
and carrying a slice of coconut cake
to enjoy later. My body hummed
from the deep yoga rinse; my heart
felt as full and happy as my stom-
ach. I made a mental note to send
my two new friends a quick note
thanking them for a lovely morning.
And then I thought: “It is funny, this
community of yogis.”
We share in so much together—in
the hot room, in the locker room, on
our blogs—and yet we all experience
our yoga so differently, so individu-
ally. We stand so alone on our mats.
I used to think yoga was so very face. Should I get married now? Do I
solitary.
And yet, with enough effort—or,
sometimes, hardly any effort at all—
we connect. We share our yoga. We
share ourselves. We make a com-
munity; we work as a team; we be-
come friends.
I understand this now. And this un-
derstanding has enabled me to meet
p110 sloane / spring 2010
and practice with yoga bloggers
“in real life,” to introduce myself to
complete strangers in the hot room,
to attend parties and happy hours
hosted by fellow yogis, to give out
my e-mail address and my phone
number so that fun post-yoga plans
can be made.
I don’t know whom to thank for all of
this—my yoga teachers for encour-
aging such behavior, or my fellow
yogis for showing such interest and
warmth, or the universe for putting
me in such close proximity with so
many fascinating, friendly people.
Or, if I should simply thank my yoga,
for helping to remind me to stay
open, to anything, to anyone, just as
my father always said. s
Photo: Colleen Reilly
—Marique Newell is a writer, blog-
ger, and yogi based in Boston. An
avid fan of live music, literature, lo-
cal designers and artists, and the hot
yoga studio. Read more on her blog:
hannahjustbreathe.wordpress.com.
Thirty-fried
by Leala C. Munson
It has been said that “40 is the new
30.” Does that mean 30 is the new
20? Absolutely not. The 20’s were the
party years, the road trip years, the
multiple boyfriend years and the “find
yourself” years. They were fun and
necessary in our lives. Now we are
in our 30’s. History tells us we should
be married with a couple kids at this
point. Throughout history women
who were single, independent and
intelligent were frowned upon and
called names like spinster, hag, witch
and old maid. But those ideas and be-
liefs do not apply anymore.
Today, women in their 30’s are all
over the map. Many women marry
and have children before turning
30; however, the majority of thirty-
somethings in the United States do
not. Dr. Terri Orbuch, a relationship
expert and author of Five Simple
Steps to Take Your Marriage From
Good to Great, states, “Educated
women tend to be more confident
about who they are and less will-
ing to settle for a man who doesn’t
meet their standards.” We are the
new breed of 30; we are changing
the way people look at age and life
roles. Here we are, in uncharted ter-
ritory with no guidebook to tell us
how to deal with the issues we will
want to have children? Is this where
I want to stay? How come I didn’t get
that promotion? All these thoughts
take over the already churning
minds of today’s women in their thir-
ties. What toll do these overwhelm-
ing thoughts have on us physically
and mentally? Regardless of our
incomes, occupations or education,
stress can sneak into our lives with-
out out our knowledge. Alvin Toffler,
p111 sloane / spring 2010
author of the book, Future Shock,
states that people will experience
more stress when subjected to a lot
of change in a short period of time.
Change is inevitable and constant in
all of our lives, especially in the fast-
paced world of today.
Businesses and Education
It is not enough to be busy. So are
the ants. The question is: what are
we busy about?
—Henry David Thoreau
In the book, The 10 Women You’ll
Be Before You’re 35, author Alison
James explains what we will all go
through from college into the thir-
ties. It is a must-have book for all of
us in the thirty age range. She lists
the 10 different women, or stages of
life, we will go through. Finding your
true self is the goal of these stages:
1. New Graduate
2. Dollarless Diva
3. Worker Bee
4. Party Girl
5. Body-Conscious Babe
6. Chameleon
7. Crisis Chick
8. Ms. Independence
9. Wirl (half woman/have girl)
10. True You
Some of us are in high-ranking po-
sitions at major corporations while
many others are breaking away from
the ‘norm’ and starting their own
businesses. In the midst of these
difficult economic times, women
who started their own businesses
have been doing quite well. Accord-
ing to a study by the Guardian Life
Small Business Research Institute
and based on information for the
Bureau of Labor Statistics, women-
owned small businesses will gener-
ate more than half of the 9.72 mil-
lion new small business jobs and
approximately one-third of the 15.3
million total new jobs anticipated by
2018. Currently there is an increase
in the number of women taking col-
lege courses. Adult education and
degree completion programs are
thriving all over the country and on-
line. Whether starting college, fin-
ishing a degree or obtaining gradu-
ate degrees, more women in their
30’s through 50’s are registered at
colleges and universities across the
country and on the internet.
Cell phones, Computers,
Blackberries and Health
Beeped and pinged, interrupted and
inundated, overloaded and hurried
­—that’s how we live today…What’s
needed is a renaissance of attention
—a revaluing and cultivating of the
art of attention to help us achieve
depth of thought and relations in
this complex, high-tech time.
—Maggie Jackson, New York Times,
June 22, 2008
When you stop and think about
your daily routine, with how many
electronic devices do you come
in contact in a 24-hour span? Now
multiply that by 365. That is a pretty
large number, and that is only one
year! According to an article in Total
Health by Dr. Sherrill Sellman, a na-
turopathic doctor, psychotherapist
and author, “The 100 trillion cells of
the human body communicate with
each other by subtle low electro-
magnetic signals as well as through
biochemical reactions. These signal
pathways carry the information that
(continued)
then become translated into all the
biochemical and physiological pro-
cesses of the body. Continuous ex-
posure to electromagnetic radiation
(EMR), in particular information car
rying EMR, can drastically distort
and disrupt these cellular commu-
nication pathways resulting in ab-
normal cellular metabolism and,
ultimately, disease. Cell function de-
teriorates; cell membranes harden;
nutrients can’t get in and toxins can’t
get out. The breakdown of healthy
cellular processes leads to biologi-
cal chaos in our bodies.” Find a way
to cut back on all the devices and
1 Unplug yourself from all electronic
devices for at least 1 hour every day.
2 Schedule personal time into daily routines.
3 Close your eyes and do not think about
work or family issues.
4 Listen to music.
5 Exercise daily.
6 Go for a short (or long) walk through
a park.
7 Be kind to a stranger. In your busy life,
find some way of being someone’s surprise
benefactor by giving change to a homeless
person, helping someone cross the street,
donating time or money to a cause.
8 Volunteer to help someone or a non-
profit organization of your choice.
9 Try to cut down on caffeine and sugar.
You’ll be less jittery.
10 Hang out with friends and DO NOT
discuss work.
11 See a comedy movie.
12 Laugh, laugh, laugh.
13 Go to your local library and sit in the
p112 sloane / spring 2010
give your brain a break. Even some-
thing as innocuous as a digital alarm
clock on the night stand next to your
bed can affect your brain and cause
sleep disturbances.
Another major issue we face is our
biological clock. Within the past 20
years, women have been getting
married and having children later
in life. One recent study from the
Department of Health stated that
over the past decade, the number
of babies born to women aged 40
and over has nearly doubled from
13,555 in 1998 to 26,419 in 2008.
Since many of us were focused on
children’s department for a little while. Lis-
ten to those children’s conversations. Look
up your favorite book from childhood.
14 Handwrite (not email or text!) a letter to
someone you haven’t talked to in awhile.
15 Discover your passion (reading, writ-
ing, journaling, singing, knitting, etc.) and
do it at least once every day.
16 Play a game. A real board game. Online
games if no other people are available.
17 Write lists about yourself.
The jobs you’ve had, the names of the
boys/men you dated, or the names of
friends with whom you’ve lost touch
through the years.
18 Learn something new—a new lan-
guage, a musical instrument, painting.
(Something you have always secretly
wanted to do but never invested the time
or effort in.)
19 Visit a museum. Go back to see the
whale hanging from the ceiling at the
Museum of Natural History that you saw
during your 5th grade field trip.
20 Clean clutter from your house or apart-
ment. When your rooms are clutter-free,
you have more incentive to make your
entire life clutter-free.
education and careers, we didn’t one hour away from all electronic
jump into the carpool lane right devices. Every week: increase the
away. Now some women are real- amount of time away from devices.
izing they want children before they Try it and note how much better you
pass 40 years old. If you are lucky feel after one month.
enough to already have your ideal
boyfriend or husband, you may be Stress can kill. It can lead to emo-
able to start having babies imme- tional problems such as depression
diately. However, the new trend is and anxiety. It can cause increases
becoming motherhood by artificial in physical problems such as heart
insemination or adoption. Now, in- palpitations, fatigue, heart attacks
stead of the stress of family inquiries and strokes. Removing stress is cru-
(I am sure I am not the only 35 year cial for a longer, healthier life. Our
old woman tired of my grandmother thirties, should be wonderful. It is
continuously questioning when I will the new beginning of our lives so
marry and produce grandchildren) enjoy it! s
you face the new stressors of family
life and motherhood. —Leala Munson is a child and adoles-
cent advocate, an academic, writer
Busyness and Stress and singer. Her experience includes
If we are unhappy, busyness makes working in higher education at Con-
a convenient excuse so that we don’t coria College and Harvard Universi-
have to acknowledge what’s not ty and with at-risk adolescents. Her
working in our jobs or our families. dream is to open a center for teen
—Marc Lesser, Less: Accomplishing girls where they can learn leader-
More by Doing Less ship skills, confidence, life skills and
realize their full potentials.
Something women in their 30’s tend
to ignore is free time. Just a couple
hours of relaxation and “me” time
can make a significant boost in your
mental and physical health. In the
book, The Overworked American,
economist Juliet Schor points out
the importance of leisure time and
how we have less time for it now.
Schor mentions that despite all the
new innovations and technology
that could make our lives easier, we
actually take even more time to do
finish tasks now. Maybe we forgot
how to relax. Opportunities for re-
laxation, free time and hobbies are
all over the place. Yoga classes are
becoming as common as Starbucks
and many companies are offer-
ing yoga classes in the workplace.
Spend a couple hours a day reading
a book, taking a slow walk along a
waterfront park or challenge yourself
to some unplugged time. Start with
Graphic: Kristian Goddard
p113 sloane / spring 2010
Proper ventilation.
by Joanne Colan
Sighed lately? Think about it. When
was the last time you consciously al-
lowed yourself the luxury of a deep,
long, gut-extending breath? And then
released it audibly, slowly, purpose-
fully, mindfully? It might have been
the last time you took a yoga class
or ascended to the top of a flight of
stairs. Perhaps it was an involuntary
Photo: Colleen Reilly
sigh, nothing out of the ordinary. But
if you put down what you’re doing for
a moment, mark a physical and men-
tal pause, and bring your attention
inward, what happens when you let
yourself consciously sigh? Try it. Inhale
through the nose until your belly is full,
and then gently expel the air through
the mouth in a steady, slow, discern-
ible sigh. Notice anything? When I did
this recently, I noticed I hadn’t sighed in
a while. And this got me thinking.
p114 sloane / spring 2010
It occurred to me I hadn’t sighed in
the way it occurs to me to open a
window and let fresh air into a room
where the atmosphere has become
thick and stuffy. I needed fresh air!
Indulging in a rich, delicious sip of
air and then surrendering to the
sensation of it releasing from me
brought a stillness that felt all at once
familiar yet long forgotten. I was in-
stantly calmer; I was relaxed; I felt
refreshed. “Did I also have a slightly
different perspective than just mo-
ments before? Was I slightly giddy
on all that new oxygen?” Whatever
it was, I decided in that contented
state, that sighing was worth a little
investigating.
Commonly, we associate involun-
tary signs with weariness, sorrow
or exhaustion. We sigh when one
of life’s more intense episodes—a
horrid argument, a bone-racking
sob— finally lets up and we can ac-
tually breathe again. Indeed, to sigh
is to acknowledge the burdensome
c’est la vie kind of suffering we must
sometimes endure. But the inten-
tional mindful sigh is another animal
altogether.
It’s not news that oxygen keeps us
alive. Taking a deep breath is cleans-
ing, yes, but it’s also vital for living.
We breathe around the clock without
thinking about it, yet breathing is nev-
er on our To Do list or scribbled down
at 2pm Tuesday in our appointments
book. Our breathing is just always
there, keeping up with us no matter
what comes our way. It kicks up a
notch when we have to run to catch
a train, or bowl after our toddler, and
it slows down to a comfortable state
of invisible when we watch TV or sit
at the computer. In reality though, all
that auto-pilot, mindless breathing is
robbing us of some essential health
benefits.
We don’t often indulge in the kind
of breath that makes us feel we’ve
inflated our entire upper body like a
balloon. Rather, the rapid in-and-out
that best describes how we typically
breathe is known as chest breath-
ing. On a physical level, shallow
breathing doesn’t allow for a com-
plete exchange of gases through
the lungs. That only happens when
we do what’s called diaphragmatic
breathing where the diaphragm fully
contracts downward, thus expand-
ing the chest cavity and causing
the belly to extend outward. When
we’re not used to diaphragmatic
breathing, it can feel like pumping
air in and out at balloon-bursting
capacity! However, by not engaging
the diaphragm, abdomen and chest
cavity when breathing, we are add-
ing stress to our body, compromis-
ing our immune system and creating
a shortage of oxygen to the blood.
Sounds pretty dramatic but surpris-
ingly it doesn’t kill us; we survive
quite well considering! Nonetheless,
in order to alleviate some stress, rid
our lungs of gaseous toxins and let
in some fresh air, it certainly doesn’t
hurt to permit oneself some con-
scious mindful ‘sing out loud’ sigh-
ing once every so often.
As well as providing our hard-work-
ing body with some purifying ven-
tilation, sighing can be used as a
useful “reboot.” The sigh, I happily
(re)discovered, is a handy portal
to the now of any given moment.
That rich full diaphragmatic breath
properly oxygenates the blood, thus
calming our nervous system. The in-
flow of oxygen nourishes our brain,
we feel less fatigued and emotional-
ly balanced. A conscious deep sigh
also means a full awareness of your
p115 sloane / spring 2010
breath, which helps shift your focus where in between inhaling until you
into the present moment. Puffed up feel comfortably full, and exhaling
with cleansing air, you disrupt your as you let go of preoccupations and
internal non-stop chatter and upon fears. Breath awareness provides an
exhaling you, release some of that imperceptible shift in focus and en-
built up tension. In more ways than ergy. Properly ventilated, you’ll feel
one, it feels great to breathe a sigh centered, present and still. s
of relief.
When is sighing useful and how can
you apply it? For starters, when you
feel you need to let in some fresh
air! Each day can presents choices,
deadlines, problems, decisions, bur-
dens, relationships and attention. We
leave little room for ourselves, and
we are always chasing what’s next.
Inevitably, the weariness, sorrow, or
exhaustion of life’s challenges can
cause us to sigh rather heavily. It is,
after all, a good way to let off steam
and release a little pressure. Better,
though, to punctuate the day with
purposeful healing sighs of relief. A
mindful sigh in all its diaphragmatic
glory can become your very own
portable on-the-go retreat. Let the
thorough exchange of air cleanse
you from the inside out. Be con-
scious of the calm that exists some-
Graphic: Kristian Goddard
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