Marissa Elman | Fashion & Photography

Marissa Elman is a lifelong lover of fashion and photography.

Why House Dresses Are Making A Comeback

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When most people think of a house dress, they usually picture their mothers and grandmothers wearing oversized, ankle-length dresses with bold floral patterns as they make breakfast for their families or clean their homes. Sitcoms from the ‘60s and ’70’s era often presented several examples of women in old fashioned house dresses. Considering the fact that no one really looks or feels attractive cleaning their bathtub, house dresses have always seemed to be a way to choose comfort over fashion when tackling household chores. Despite their less than appealing history, house dresses are making a comeback, and it’s not hard to see why.

 

The year 2020 has confined most people to their homes with minimal or no options for keeping up with their grooming, which further discourages most from even bothering to put any effort into their appearance. As a result, most women who are used to getting up extra early to make sure they are a little more than presentable for the workplace have found themselves hanging around the house all day makeup-free and wearing things they wouldn’t even wear on a quick store run. Wearing old t-shirts and sweats every day can become a drag over time and requires a change of wardrobe when it’s time to get down to business, which is why modern house dresses have captured the attention of women everywhere. There are finally house dresses comfortable enough for mopping floors and at the same time stylish enough for work zoom meetings sitting in your living room.

 

The old images of mothers and grandmothers in their old fashioned house dresses eating snacks and watching soap operas on the couch are being replaced with images of women who are doing it all and looking great while doing it. There is now an array of different fabrics and patterns of house dresses for women to choose from. Popular styles of house dresses include tie waisted, smocks, and shirt dresses, and most women are able to find options they love.

 

Everyone is attempting to return to their idea of normal everyday life, and modern house dresses are offering women a way to find a happy medium in fashion for their quarantined lives in the meantime.

How COVID Saved Kodak

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Kodak was a household name back in the days when laying your hands on a photograph meant taking out the roll of film in your camera and having it developed. Kodak attained a powerful market position in the 70s, accounting for 85% of the camera and 90% of film sales in the US. However, the firm’s failure to capitalize on digital photography, which was one of its many inventions, led to a downward spiral trend. So devastating were the effects of the digital era on Kodak that the company declared bankruptcy in 2012. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has saved Kodak as President Trump’s Government promised to loan the company capital to venture into the production of pharmaceutical ingredients for combating the virus.

Kodak’s Jump From a Fallen Photography Giant to a Pharmaceutical Producer

Kodak’s fear of hurting their film sales, if they capitalized on the newly invented digital camera, was a fatal mistake that came with adverse repercussions – the company exited the digital camera industry in 2012.

Over the last several years, Kodak has focused on the production of advanced chemicals. However, there has not been much to show for the effort. Until a few days ago, Kodak was another household name heading down the drain.

In an unexpected turn of events, the Trump administration has summoned Kodak and awarded the organization a contract to make ingredients for the production of generic drugs for COVID-19. The firm is a beneficiary of a government program to reduce the country’s foreign dependence on medical supplies. Nothing has made the implications of this foreign dependency clearer than the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kodak’s Failure to Adapt to the Digital Era Made It a Relic; Will the COVID-19 Pandemic Change That

Trump’s administration has given Kodak $765 million to produce ingredients for COVID-19 drugs. Many are heralding this as a big comeback by Kodak. However, some critics think that Kodak will be hard-pressed to manufacture these ingredients at a price that will compete with the offshore supplies. Only time will tell whether this is a comeback for Kodak or another opportunity to continue ‘surviving.’ Nevertheless if the immediate response to this news is anything to go by, better days lie ahead for Kodak.

Kodak Gains From COVID

Since winning a government loan to produce pharmaceutical ingredients, Kodak’s market valuation and the share price has risen consistently. In just a few days, the firm’s shares had more than tripled.

Kodak began the production of drug ingredients about four years ago. With the recent government loan, the firm is set to expand the production of medical elements in their facilities.

How Will the Fashion Industry Continue to Adapt in 2020?

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Everyone knows that 2020 has not been an ordinary year. Coronavirus has changed society and people’s daily routines. Considering that many people have been working from home, going out less, and spending less time in groups, people have been dressing differently. Here are some predictions regarding how fashion will continue to adapt in 2020.

One prominent example of how the Coronavirus could shape fashion choices is the normalization of face masks. While masks were not commonly seen in American society before, they are now essential for entering most businesses and stores due to social distancing protocols. Instead of plain disposable masks, popular fashion designers will be likely to continue making stylish, washable masks until the pandemic is over. Beards and long nails are also going to be less popular because beards make it harder to breathe in masks and long nails do not always feel comfortable under latex gloves.

Regarding popular fashion choices, athleisure happened to be growing in popularity before the pandemic. The fashion industry and society as a whole will be likely to embrace this trend now because it is more comfortable than dressier options but still can be styled in a fashion-forward way. People have been comfortable wearing athleisure during the pandemic and will continue to wear this type of clothing for a while. For this reason, the fashion industry will probably continue to produce more athleisure throughout 2020.

With all the new technological advancements in today’s modern society, people have the option to shop online through their computers, laptops, phones, and tablets. Online shopping has become popular in recent years and especially now because of Covid-19. Brands and clothing companies have been adapting to the pandemic by advertising their websites because the industry knows that some customers are not comfortable going into stores.

Another way that the Covid-19 lockdown will affect fashion trends is a strong increase in sustainability. The fashion industry will have to adapt by slowing down production and prioritizing quality over quantity. Durability is more important than excessive trendiness during a pandemic. Rather than obsessing over whatever trends are hottest at the moment resulting in fast fashion, the industry will have to produce quality clothing that will last longer.

Pros and Cons of Thrift Shopping

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Thrift shops and second-hand stores offer a unique experience for shoppers looking for a bargain or a fun find. Whether you are shopping for a new outfit, an accessory, or a random household item, thrift shops are great places to look for a number of reasons. However, before venturing into a thrift shop, it is important to consider some of the potential downsides to thrift shopping.

 

PROS

One of the best things about thrift shopping is how fun it can be. Finding something unique, exciting, or even valuable at a thrift shop can be a great experience. While the items at a thrift shop can be random, a lot of individuals tend to donate items that are high quality or brand name. Even if the items are out of season or slightly worn, shopping at a thrift shop allows individuals to purchase and own items they might otherwise be unable to afford. Additionally, because thrift shops sell only items that have been previously owned, they are sold at a lower price, making the task of saving money easy.

Buying from thrift stores often means supporting a charitable organization or providing job opportunities to individuals with disabilities. Thrift shopping inherently promotes social responsibility, making the act of shopping at a thrift shop more appearing on a moral level. Similarly, donating to and buying from thrift shops can actually help the environment; more than 10 million tons of used clothing are dumped into landfills each year in the United States, so buying secondhand can be considered a kind of recycling.

 

CONS

Thrift shops are great resources, but there are a few caveats. When shopping at a thrift shop, you should be careful to carefully inspect the items you are looking to purchase. Some items may have been donated because they were damaged, so identifying if there are any major issues before making a purchase is essential. Similarly, some items such as articles of clothing, shoes, or blankets may have been donated without being washed. These items may carry germs or possess an odor; in such cases, you can consider washing fabric items with vinegar to disinfect them and remove any unpleasant smells.

Another thing to remember is that items purchased at a thrift shop may not last as long as brand new items.

You may be able to find exciting things in a thrift shop, but many shops are not as well-organized as other stores. Because of this, you may feel stressed as you shop due to blocked aisles, crowds, or the amount of time necessary to navigate around the space.

 

At times, thrift shopping may cause some stress for a number of reasons, but overall, visiting a thrift shop once in a while is a fun, productive experience. From helping your community to finding new additions to your wardrobe, thrift shopping is a great way to spend your time.

5 Trends to Avoid This Winter

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The world of fashion is increasingly fast-paced. Trends seem to change at lightning speed. Last season’s must-haves quickly become this season’s faux pas. Avoid embarrassment this winter season. Don’t be caught dead in any of these out-of-style pieces.

 

  1. Cropped Coats

Cropped coats have been popular in the past, but it’s time for a new queen bee. This season is all about dramatic, full-length coats. They are warmer as well as more mature. A camel colored coat is a classic and timeless piece that fits this trend. A fur or faux-fur choice is a more glamorous and attention-grabbing option that also aids in providing sufficient warmth.

 

  1. Over-the-knee boots

Over-the-knee and thigh-high boots seemed to be everywhere over the last few years, knocking knee-high boots out of their once-popular ranking. Fashion is always cyclical, and knee-high boots have made a comeback. Equestrian boots are among the most popular styles. However, motorcycle boots and heeled animal print boots, such as snakeskin, are bolder choices that can add extra flair to your outfit. Avoid boots that rise above the knee if you want to appear fashion-forward this season.

 

  1. Mini Dresses

Mini dresses were a unique trend for winter in the past. Perhaps they were downright inappropriate since winter is not a time for warm-weather clothing. Mini dresses are being replaced with warmer, more appropriate options such as ankle-length or midi-length dresses.

 

  1. Vinyl

The age of vinyl is gone. Say good riddance to all the clear vinyl skirts and shoes especially. Many could argue that the vinyl trend was a faux pas to begin with, but in any case, it is gone for good. Leather has risen in its place instead. Leather lasts longer and looks better than vinyl. Vegan and vegetarians may choose a faux-leather option to keep in style with this trend.

 

  1. Boxy Silhouettes

Winter doesn’t have to mean being drowned in fabric. Loose, boxy silhouettes are a thing of the past. Far too often, boxy silhouettes translate as sloppy and lazy instead of effortless. The current style is more refined, feminine, and clean-cut. Choose figure-flattering silhouettes in luxurious, quality fabrics to look put together instead of careless in shapeless clothing.

How Do Fashion Trends Become Popular?

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Fashion trends are important to everyone, even people who don’t put a lot of thought into fashion. Ask yourself, how many people do you see out in public who are wearing clothes that are not in style? Fashion trends seep into our minds consciously and unconsciously, and even individuals who are not interested in fashion tend to be influenced by what is mainstream. But why do fashion trends become popular?

 

In the past, fashion trends became popular due to the traditional model of originating in the fashion houses, then off to the magazines, and then bought by the consumers. However, now it is the 21st-century, and the Internet is a significant part of our world.

 

Because of the Internet, the way fashion trends become popular comes from more than just the runway. 

 

The Streets

We watch what people wear on the streets, particularly in popular cities like New York and Los Angeles, where people are known to be more fashion-conscious. As we pass one another on the streets, we consciously or unconsciously take in what people are wearing. For example, if you are a woman and see a large number of women carrying large handbags rather than small purses, chances are you’ll purchase a large bag over a small purse. This desire will be assisted by what will be available in stores because stores tend to reflect what we see on the streets.

 

Celebrities

We watch celebrities that we see on the Internet or that we observe on reality TV shows, and we’re influenced by what they wear. For example, arguably the most famous celebrity TV family is The Kardashians. We watch what Kim, Kendall and Kylie Jenner wear. We probably won’t spend as much as they do on an outfit, but stores make it a point to copy these styles at far more affordable prices because designers know that people are influenced by what they see.

 

Fashion Blogs

Another way we follow fashion trends is with the many fashion blogs that appear on the Internet. Following fashion blogs is more of a habit for a fashionista than your average woman. However, fashion blogs are prevalent in the 21st-century, and the most trafficked ones will influence how individuals perceive the latest styles and compose their own wardrobe.

 

Instagram

Social media is prevalent in the 21st-century, especially with the app Instagram. It has at least one billion users. What makes Instagram so conducive to fashion is because it is primarily a visual medium. Users upload their photos for people to view. There are millions of various fashion photos on Instagram that profoundly influence users.

 

Fashion trends become popular when they are easy to create and easy to afford. They are only popular when everyday people can wear them. Fashions exclusively among the very rich are not popular with everyone.

How to Define Your Style

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Many people experiment with style as they grow up. However, some of us prefer a defined sense of style into adulthood.  The first step to defining your own style might be to find a style icon. Browse magazines to find celebrities whose styles you like. Look for pieces that remind you of that person’s style and envision yourself wearing those articles.

 

Your current wardrobe can provide insight into your style. Look at the styles that you have multiple of, such as polka dots, that already define your style. On the other hand, if your wardrobe contains some outliers, you might not be as comfortable wearing that style, especially if you only wear those items infrequently. However, you may need to branch out from your comfort zone if you want to find your style, especially if your closet is currently full of sweatpants and t-shirts. Although it takes time to become comfortable with new fashion, it may be well worth it to define your style.

 

Once you’ve identified styles that you like, do a little research to find a name for it. Perhaps you prefer bohemian or modern fashion. Determining the right label can help you find more items that you’ll like that match your style when searching for ideas in magazines or online.

 

Whether it might be a certain style of handbags or sunglasses, matching jewelry, or some other aspect of your outfit, pick a signature item. Of course, you don’t need to wear the same signature piece. It’s okay if you have multiple black booties. They all create the same effect. The people who know you and your style will think of you whenever they see a similar piece!

 

Don’t get too caught up in fads. Something that looks great one season might seem incredibly dated the next year, not to mention a decade later. Furthermore, sometimes trends may not be flattering on you or make you feel comfortable when you wear them. Instead, look for pieces that won’t go out of style and that suit your tastes.

 

Once you’ve nailed down the overall look that will become your style, you can look at accessories, jewelry, and shoes that complete the look. Purses, belts, scarves, hats, or hairpieces can also be the finishing touch on the perfect outfit!

Fashion Trends of the 2010s

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Just like any other decade, the 2010s were full of many different fashions that make it unique to all others. To many of us, the 2010s seemed to have flown by. Here are some fashions from the 2010s.

 

Hipster Fashions

Hipster fashions took this decade by storm. “Vintage” clothing became all the rage as trendy, thrift-style stores popped up in urban areas. Mismatched clothing articles became a trend, and there were retro themes where people dressed in the fashions of previous time periods. In some places, it wasn’t completely unusual to see a guy dressed like someone in the 1920s. The 1980s, especially, was glorified in fashion. Music and clothing from that time period made a huge come back. The idea that clothing had to be stylish or hip was challenged, and more people felt comfortable sporting awkward, unique outfits.

 

Spike Heels

Spike heels were all the rage as teenagers and young women wore them to all kinds of special events. Whether it was a graduation or a night out, you would see people break out the six-inch heels.

 

Leggings

Leggings were especially big in the 2010s. They came in many different colors and prints, though the most common types of leggings worn were back. Wherever you went, you would see girls and women of all ages sport the skin-tight bottoms. People would dress their baby daughters, as well as themselves, in leggings. Even in the winter, people would commonly wear them even though a majority of leggings were relatively thin. Fortunately, “thermal” leggings were produced to provide people with more warmth in the winter.

 

Beards and Mustaches

Of course, in the 2010s, beards and mustaches still had bad stigmas among large swathes of people. However, they became popular among a certain subset of the population—particularly among people thrown into the “hipster” category. People grew long, thick beards and mustaches. There were even some men who styled their mustaches in eccentric ways.

 

These are just a few of the fashions that were unique to the 2010s. Beards and mustaches became popular among a certain subset of the population, despite retaining their negative stigmas among others. Females of all ages wore leggings, even in the cold. Young women wore tall heels to special events. Hipster fashions took the world by storm. Other trends like high-top sneakers and athleisure clothing also emerged and gained popularity among the general population.

The 90s Fashion Revival Today

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One quick scroll on Instagram and it’s clear that the 90’s are back in a big way. While most would cringe at the reemergence of 90s trends and perhaps flashbacks of their own fashion snafus; its safe to say that there are trends worth rocking. Crop tops and mini skirts once made popular by Cher and her gang of friends in “Clueless” are making their rounds on the scene again. Track suits have also made their way back into the fashion circuit, with both men and women sporting them. Vintage graphic t-shirts and basketball jerseys from the 90s are also in heavy rotation on the streets and on social media.

 

Cosmetic brands, such as Kim Kardashian’s KKW Beauty, are also flashing back to the past with the release of 90s inspired makeup collections. Makeup trends that are popping up again are clear glass lip glosses, matte eyeshadows, thicker eyebrows, glitter, and lip liner. Accessories like tiny hand bags, charm earrings and necklaces, bucket hats and the ever popular Kangol hat are also making their comeback. The uber cool skater look has also been making a comeback these days. Chokers which were once very popular in the 90s are made new again. Whether a diamond, velvet or plastic choker, this accessory has become a favorite amongst teens and millennials alike.

 

Vans and Converse shoes are classic staples favored by many skaters and skate fans alike. Other 90s trends seen in footwear are platform shoes and combat boots. Doc Martens, which were very popular in the 90s have regained popularity with the rise of the 90s grunge look. Denim inspired by the 90s has also made a big comeback, with vintage retailers stocking classic Levis 501s. Mom jeans, which are characteristic of a higher waist and straight silhouette, are very popular and can be dressed up or down.

 

Overalls have come back in a big way and show no signs of disappearing anytime soon. Whether shorts or full overalls, these tried and true blues are unisex and can be styled a number of ways. Denim jackets are also on the scene again. Whether cropped, studded, patched up or plain, a denim jacket is 90s accessory that seems to be more of a staple than a trend. The grunge look is also making its rounds again with the help of flannel shirts, loose jeans and mini skirts.

5 Iconic Fashion Designers

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The fascination with fashion has been around for centuries. When Cleopatra reigned, she was considered a fashion icon, as was Marie Antoinette, and in more modern times Duchesses Kate and Megan, but the real stars are the designers behind the fashions and their incredible talent that melds fashion into art. Here are five of the most iconic designers.

 

Coco Chanel

The name is synonymous with fashion, and even those who don’t follow fashion recognize the name. Coco Chanel created styles still used by the fashion house today, including the quilted bag and tweed suit. She is also responsible for creating one of the most Famous perfumes of all time, Chanel No. 5, used by icons such as Marilyn Monroe.

 

Alexander McQueen

Alexander McQueen’s designs can be recognized even without a logo. There is a thin line between fashion and art in his designs. His shows were just as complex, sometimes even shocking, but always memorable in their theatrical displays. His collections had a clear theme and story. His designs featuring skulls are some of his most popular and beloved.

 

Yves Saint Laurent

Yves Saint Laurent began as an apprentice to the famed Christian Dior. Yves Saint Laurent blended art and fashion with his Mondrian collection, featuring striped color-blocked dresses that became famous in the 1960s. He also made created the Le Smoking suit. a menswear-inspired suit tailored for women. Today, his fashion house is still considered the epitome of style.

 

Oscar De La Renta

Famed for his feminine, elegant designs that have been worn by a myriad of celebrities, royals and dignitaries. His fame catapulted in the 1960s when he dressed Jacqueline Kennedy. He would go on to design several more dresses for the First Ladies of the United States. In 2014 he designed Amal Clooney’s French lace wedding gown.

 

Diane Von Furstenberg

Diane Von Furstenberg rose to fame after she married a German Prince, but she is now most known for changing dresses forever with her iconic jersey wrap dress design. She has always understood that women want flattering clothes that make them feel powerful. The wrap dress remains popular today and is the one item heralded time and time again as the article a woman must have in her wardrobe.