Here's What We Have:

From Mary Quants London boutique in the early 1960s to Jean Paul Gaultier’s self-titled clothing line in the late 1980s, fashion has followed suit with innovation. Over the last 50 years, we have watched trends fade in and out of the spotlight. Throughout all the trends and fads we succumb to one thing that remains certain: fashion is a physical embodiment of self-expression. We have used fashion to spark a rebellion, create art movements, and spotlight parts of our culture. Let’s roll through the styles of the last few decades and check out just how much our looks have changed. 1960s Can you dig it? The 60s was a time of rebellion, with women everywhere cutting their skirts shorter and the rise of fan culture with Beatlemania taking over the country. With the world changing on its axis we see a lot of new art arising from culture, now edgier than we had previously seen in mainstream media. The “Pop Art” movement is an accredited art movement that took over culture in the 60s, being noted in history as one of the most recognizable styles of modern art. An often controversial artist popularized during these years was Andy Warhol, who frequently used commercial logos in his work by editing them using different colors and patterns. These logos were still recognizable as the product but were edited slightly in color and shape. Most notably, Warhol’s work is recognized by the Campbell soup can and Coca-Cola logo. The Pop Art movement was a controversial step forward in the art world due to its connection with commercialism. Using logos and famous visuals from brands and significant companies elicited criticism from other artists that this was a ploy towards promoting consumption in capitalist society through their work. Despite these arguments, many Americans found themselves enthralled with the rise of modern art. Common symbols many recognized in grocery stores seemed to bridge a gap between those in the art world and the regular person who is not often consuming this content. The Pop Art movement affected every part of the culture in the 60s, as well as the future of modern art. 1970s Calling all “Daisy Jones and the Six” fans. The 1970s provided a plethora of innovations from their use of flared jeans and belle sleeves to the incredible clothing (or lack thereof) worn during the summer of love. Woodstock and the Summer of Love were often associated with escapism, a way to get out of the war-ridden world we lived in and escape into the music. These festivals were often associated with hippies and other free spirits. Unlike in the 60s, we see a rejection of modern art and any association with commercialism, instead earthy palettes were all the rage. With “hippie” being the new buzzword, many switched from the bright ways of the 60s to more muted, natural tones. With the Vietnam War hitting a boiling point during these pivotal years we see a rise in political outcry. Protests took place all around the United States, often associated with college campuses being the starting point of many of these protests and students being the organizers. The Anti-War protests of the 1970s and overall rejection of the government or mainstream media is where much of this innovation comes from. 1980s Let’s get physical! If steps class hasn’t tired you yet, make sure to hit the mall for a bite before grabbing your skates for the roller rink. Why did leotards come into fashion during the 1980s, only to fade out entirely and become a flashy memory? During the 1980s we saw a rise in new gym fads, including jazzercise, steps classes, and pilates. Enter Gilda Marx, Gilda was a fitness instructor to the stars in Hollywood, California during the 80s. Gilda’s emphasis on the new “jazzercise” attracted hundreds of stars throughout Hollywood. The new jazzercise craze became so big that even Jane Fonda opened her very own studio in 1982. Very quickly, Gildas leotard became the standard uniform for workout classes everywhere. Gilda wore a leotard to every class as she felt it was the most comfortable piece of clothing to wear while exercising. Although, it was obvious the leotard needed some adjustments. Gilda worked to design her leotard that supported the chest as well as looked flattering on adult women in a way that ballet leotards did not. Gilda found great success with her line of leotards, as one of the most iconic fitness coaches in Hollywood those who took her classes followed suit in purchasing her leos. Gilda is now remembered in history as creating one of the signature looks of the 1980s. 1990s As if! With MTV blaring through the speakers of my box TV, we visit the 1990s to say hello to some favorites from this era. As we enter the age of the internet, we see how accessible media affects trends during these years. During the beginning of the 90s, people started to split off into different subcultures like our grunge, preppy, and punk looks. These subcultures are inspired by mainstream celebs and what we see them wearing. Our first mainstream celeb that drastically affected culture with their looks was Will Smith in “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”. This television show was a quick hit that launched Will Smith’s acting and music career. Such a hit in fact that men everywhere start to adjust their wardrobes to more preppy looks that include some staples from the show such as oversized shirts and high-waisted jeans. Many of the clothes Smith would wear on the show were heavily inspired by the 90s prevalent hip-hop culture. Meanwhile, Grunge starts to become its own subculture with the rise of rock music in the 90s. With bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam gaining popularity we see a rise in ripped jeans and dark clothing. These darker color palettes match the aesthetic that the musicians chose to market. For what seems like the first time in history, we have more access to people through the internet than we ever have, which seemed to lead to the individual celebrity having more of an effect on fashion than ever before. This phenomenon plus the increase of subcultures and cliques led to a large spectrum of iconic looks during the 1990s. 2000s Guys, where’s my Barney Bag?! Finally, let's touch on the gift that keeps on giving: y2k style. Throughout the 2000s we see celebrities like Janet Jackson and Missy Elliot aligning with the concept of Afrofuturism. Afrofuturism is known for its elements of the fantastical as well as its connection to outer space. We see Missy Elliot and Janet Jackson pioneer this modern twist on the concept with silver eyeshadow and metallic clothing. Current y2k trends that we see making an appearance today like low-waisted jeans with chain belts were first worn by the early 2000s group Destinys Child (OG Beyonce fans know). Of course, none of us can forget Paris Hiltons iconic looks from this era. Her show “The Simple Life” starring Paris and Nicole Richie gave us a taste of what luxury these girls are used to and grew very popular on TV for their quotes and commentary. Paris, known not just for her role on reality TV but also for her style, always seemed to be sporting extremely low-rise jeans or a glittery slip dress. Y2K fashion is alive and well today with so many of these looks being repeated on red carpets as well as on the streets of NYC. With all of these trends making a comeback, let us pray that jeans under dresses stay in the past. Written by Liadin Stewart Styling, Creative Direction, Production Management by Kaenaaloha Watson Creative Direction by Sophia Querrazzi Shot and Edited by Mark Bluemle Production Assistance by Jake Pranian 2000s Outfit Designed by Kari Alexandra Models (From L to R on Cover Photo): Eden Masliah, Serge Beaucéjour, Taylor Jackson, Mikial Hamilton, Ayana Velasquez, Alexis Rios Sources used: https://www.theartstory.org/movement/pop-art/ https://www.instyle.com/fashion/clothing/vintage-workout-wear-history https://www.masterclass.com/articles/1990s-fashion#1XtQcaKX7uuhChZ0DZTqqR https://www.34st.com/article/2021/03/y2k-2000s-fashion-black-culture-destinys-child-juicy-couture-missy-elliot

Buried things burst upwards As a child reaching for the stars Metamorphosis runs wild Only to be heard silently This is the morning glory. Air stiff with desire Time stands heavy, thick as fog Moonlight lingers in the petals of purple hyacinths Whom cradle their weighed sorrows Igniting the Earth wordlessly A merciless beauty bestowed Pink carnations cock their heads Starved from the tenebrous night Bleeding hearts dripping from their stems Fall onto the wetted grass Roots curl, clawing onto the distant soil For where would we be without it? Written by Grace Bugin

Happy summer! Enjoy our fun and fresh playlist of tunes that are guaranteed to get you into the summer mood. Curated by Lily Greenberg

In recent months, a divisive question almost as popular as the infamous feud between cats and dogs has made its way into public consciousness, “will you be seeing Barbie or Oppenheimer on July 21st?” Since it was reported that Greta Gerwig’s film interpretation of the famous Mattel doll would be releasing on the same day as Christopher Nolan’s biopic about the “father of the atom bomb”, Twitter users and movie-buffs alike have not been able to stop talking about the irony of the situation. It is both refreshing and optimistic to hear so much excitement from film-going audiences about these upcoming movies given the bleak state of cinema attendance in a post Covid-19 world. While I implore everyone to buy a ticket to these massive summer blockbusters, I also encourage attendees to support smaller and more independent films that are currently screening or will be released over the next few months. For your convenience, here are my recommendations for eight must-watch films to look out for this summer! Bottoms - Emma Seligman’s sophomore film, Bottoms, tells the story of two queer high school seniors who are looking to start a self-defense club at their high school to seduce hot cheerleaders. This is the second collaboration between Seligman and actress Rachel Sennott (Shiva Baby) which also stars the fantastic Ayo Edebiri of The Bear. The film is guaranteed to be a comedic home run given both actresses' ability to deliver dry humor and contemporary slang in ways that won’t make Gen-Z viewers full-body cringe. This queer satirical comedy is factory-made for fans of other high school-centric comedies like Superbad and Booksmart. Don’t miss Bottoms which releases in theaters on August 25th! Asteroid City - The latest from Wes Anderson is an extraterrestrial-themed take on family, isolation, and the American Southwest. Starring his usual suspects Jason Schwartzman, Jeffrey Wright, and Tilda Swinton as well as star power from the likes of Scarlett Johansson and Tom Hanks, Anderson’s film yields an array of striking but earnest performances. Perhaps his most ambitious project to date, Asteroid City can balance its situational comedy with the conflicting feelings that come from the fickle nature of the future. The film explores loss and relationships through the fictional American town of Asteroid City with tenderness, but also a sense of determination. Be sure to check out Asteroid City which is playing in theaters as of June 16th. Talk to Me - For fans of A24 and horror, Talk to Me is the perfect watch for a warm summer night. This is a new and reimagined take on the familiar genre of supernatural movies. In the feature-length directorial debut from filmmakers Danny and Michael Philippou, a group of teenagers try to talk to the spirit world by way of an embalmed hand until something goes terribly wrong. Critics say that the possessed performance from Joe Bird in the film is one of the best since The Exorcist (1973) and that Sophie Wilde delivers a powerhouse performance as the heroine of the story. Talk to Me will begin screening in theaters on July 28th. Blue Jean - Blue Jean tells the tale of a lesbian P.E. teacher living in England during a period of violent homophobia when many anti-gay and lesbian bills were being passed. This drama is the feature debut of Georgia Oakley and calls into question the safety and identity of being queer. The movie explores what comfort and community mean through its beautiful and intentional cinematography as well as the raw performance given by Rose McEwen. While the film strikes a far more melancholic note than others on this list, it is, unfortunately, relevant to the current political situation regarding LGBTQ+ people in the United States and the United Kingdom, therefore making it a must-see film this summer. Blue Jean began its theatrical run on June 9th. No Hard Feelings - Jennifer Lawrence returns to the silver screen in No Hard Feelings! This raunchy coming-of-age comedy tells the story of a broke young woman who is hired by a pair of overprotective parents to get their 19-year-old son to step out of his shell. While the age gap in the film may cause concern for some viewers, critics of the movie have claimed that the generational difference is not condoned by the narrative and is handled tastefully. Lawrence’s natural aptitude for comedy and the absurd situations that she gets herself into will be sure to keep you entertained on a summer’s day. No Hard Feelings was released to theaters on June 23rd. The Blackening - From director Tim Story, The Blackening, is a must-see horror/comedy which retells the traditional scary movie through the experiences of a group of Black friends celebrating Juneteenth together in a cabin in the woods. For too long the horror genre has sidelined BIPOC voices in its films and has prioritized white characters instead. This film seeks to change that and brings more marginalized voices into the horror industry. The Blackening is everything that you could hope for from a film with its witty comedy and strong grasp of classical horror knowledge. The Blackening is now playing in theaters as of June 16th. Amanda - Amanda is the feature-length debut from director Carolina Cavalli. This Italian drama/comedy follows a 24-year-old girl who is desperate for friendship and searches for it with a long-lost friend. The film seems to run in the same vein as Thoroughbreds and Ingrid Goes West, with its detached female protagonist and her unsociable tendencies. The coming-of-age narrative, the provocative yet grounded performance from Benedetta Porcaroli, and the rich visuals make this the perfect movie to watch with friends or on your own! Be sure to catch Amanda in theaters on July 7th. Theater Camp - If you are looking for a relatable, contemporary, and genuinely hilarious summer comedy, I urge you to check out Theater Camp. Directed by Molly Gordon and Nick Lieberman this movie depicts a summer camp for talented children in upstate New York who are passionate about musical theater. The film stars Ben Platt, Molly Gordon, and Ayo Edibiri, all of whom show that they have the comedic chops for this work from the trailer alone. The humor tackles modern situations like children discovering CBD gummies and explaining the crushing reality of theater to a group of 12-year-olds. This film is destined to become a cult classic and is an absolute must-watch! Theater Camp will be released to theaters on July 14th. Written by Lindsay Paul

Here on the east coast, the weather is taking its time to get moving. As we currently linger on the beaches in sweats dreaming of tan lines, 90 degrees, a cold drink, and praying to find someone with a boat by the time the weather gets nice. If you are already at the point of boredom and have run out of things to do, getting together with friends to watch these Top Ten Movies That Feel Like Summer could be the cure. Movies are a perfect way to ease into summer and get yourself excited for the adventures to come, and could even give some ideas for your future summer plans. 1. The Way Way Back From the beaches of Massachusetts to the water park and being forced to leave your friends and spend time with family, this is definitely one of my favorite summer movies. As the main character's mother has an extremely overbearing boyfriend, he uses this trip to leave and explore the town they are staying in which leads to him creating new bonds and relationships with the people he meets. During the duration of the movie, Duncan struggles with family issues which leads to him sneaking away from his family to spend his time with people he enjoys at the local waterpark. 2. The Last Song Although Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth's relationship will be left in the past, this movie is on replay throughout the summer. Miley plays a rebellious teen who is forced to stay with her father in North Carolina for the summer along with her brother. The movie depicts the struggle of the summer before college, family relationships, and personal relationships. Although there are struggles, the beach, nature, and blasting music with the windows down are the perfect summer vibe. I watch this movie whenever I want to feel like it's summer. 3. Stand By Me This is a great movie about friendship and almost makes you wish you were a young boy in the 80s. The movie follows a group of young boys as they set out by themselves to find the body of a boy who has been killed. Though it sounds gruesome, their journey documents the group's friendship and how it is tested, and the new bonds they created with each other. The adventuring outdoors, being surrounded by nature and close friends gives the movie a summer feeling. 4. Grown Ups A movie I am convinced everyone likes, but let's pretend the second one does not exist. Meeting up with family and friends on a summer vacation is the highlight of some people's years and makes some of the best memories and this movie shows that. As Adam Sandler and his usual crew take a trip down memory, reconnect with each other, and bring their families along. It hilariously shows the best parts of summer, reconnecting with old friends and creating new memories. 5. Mamma Mia! I am definitely not into musicals, but Mamma Mia! is definitely the exception. Everything about this movie is perfect and sets so many goals. Everyone wants to enter their Mamma Mia! era of leaving home to travel and explore Europe with no other cares and relax on the beaches of Greece. How could you not want as exciting of a life as Donna's? This movie feels like it is summer all year round. 6. The Hannah Montana Movie Who would not want to experience a Miley Stuart summer? Filled with cowboys, the countryside, lake swimming, and family, this movie sets a chill and comforting vibe for the summer. Escaping from the city, reconnecting with nature and your roots to take time to discover yourself and grow. This movie brings out the coziness and comfort of summer by hanging out on the porch on hot summer nights with friends and family. (Lucas Till is also nice to look at). 7. The Parent Trap A movie I believe everyone grew up watching and if you haven’t, it is a must-watch. Obviously, with sleepaway camp, this movie is bound to have the summer feeling. It almost makes you feel nostalgic for summer camp by being surrounded by friends all day and night, creating mischief, jumping in the lake, making new friends, and the iconic ear-piercing scene that is engraved in everyone's memory. Even when the girls leave summer camp, the summer vibe continues all the way into California on Nick Parker's ranch with the dream house and vineyard. 8. Cheaper By The Dozen 2 Taking place at the family's summer lake house, the movie shows the rivalry between the Baker family and the Murtaugh family. As they compete in a summer sports competition to see who is the better family, both parties take it a little too far. I feel this is more of a comforting movie with the campfires, lake swimming, water sports, and even the parts of the movie when they start getting sick of being around family, it feels just like summer. 9. The Notebook Although a sad ending, the movie depicts a perfect summer setting. Starting off with the first scenes to come on screen of the carnival, which immediately captures the essence of summer. Throughout the movie, the night scenes of cozy homes and sitting on porches make you feel like you are in the movie. Watching it, you can almost feel the hot humid air and the chirping of the crickets as you sit on the front porch. This movie captures the beauty of a Southern summer night. 10. Hot Summer Nights Honestly, it is not my personal favorite movie but the vibes and aesthetic of the set are perfect. Set in Cape Cod with the beach, high school parties, carnivals, a summer fling, Timothee Chalamet, and drug dealing, this movie has the perfect summer vibe (but maybe scratch the last part). The acting and plot aren't award-winning but it is worth watching for its aesthetic and the rush of summer. Written by Andie Serrao

Sunscreen - Everyone at every price range, activity level, skin color, and texture needs sunscreen. Not trying to start this list with a bummer, but skin cancer is the fifth most common type of cancer worldwide. So, why not take this list as a reminder to take care of the #1 most important thing? Sunscreen! Sunscreen doesn’t need to be expensive, and at any SPF or any skin type, there is a wide variety of sunscreen available. My faves are Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen (that goes for about $22-$68 depending on what size you get), Sun Bum (about $12-$50), and the one I use every morning is the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen (starts at about $10). Using sunscreen regularly is a great way to keep yourself safe and keep your skin protected all summer long (without sacrificing a great tan). Bracelets - “So make the friendship bracelets, take the moment and taste it…” is the lyric that inspired thousands of Taylor Swift fans everywhere to make and trade friendship bracelets. Even if you’re not the tiniest bit of a Taylor Swift fan (which, sorry, I don’t believe you) you can still join in on the fun. I have not made a single Taylor Swift-related bracelet, but am trying to get/make/give as many as possible before the summer is over. Besides being a fun activity to do with friends or solo, the bracelets make super cute, bright, and fun summer accessories. Hydration - The third item on my list is a cute water bottle! Hydration is one of (if not the most) important parts of making summer great. As a long-term Summer camp attendee and current camp counselor, my fave is the customizable Hydro Flask. I have a 32 oz wide-mouth HydroFlask with a straw lid, but anything that will remind you to stay hydrated is perfect. You can’t have a hot girl summer if you’re dehydrated! Liquid IV - Talking about water bottles leads me to my next summer must-have: Liquid IV. Again, as a camp counselor, my #1 priority (besides making sure my campers are safe and having fun) is staying hydrated. Drinking a Liquid IV every night after spending all day in the sun is a LIFESAVER. Plus, the variety of flavors ensures that everyone can find one they like. Hair Tinsel - The next thing on my hot girl summer list is not hydration related (surprised?), but rather hair related. A fun activity/accessory/summer look refresh is hair tinsel! Hair Tinsel is coming back this summer, and I can’t wait. The main thing I love about hair tinsel is that you can make it as subtle or bold as you want, and it’s not permanent. Most hair tinsel only lasts 4-8 weeks, so it’ll be grown out before the fall ‘23 semester and functions as a great summertime change (it doesn’t break the bank either). Multicolored nails - A big thing I’ve been rocking this summer, along with all of the hundreds if not thousands of people who did it before me, are multicolored nails. Move over nude and French tip nails, multicolored rainbow nails are the perfect way to add even more color and fun to your summer. There are so many different patterns, colors, shapes, and designs to try with bright colors in mind. Plus if you get bored you can always attempt some of these designs yourself. Spotify - Another essential part of a hot girl summer is good music. 47Mag even has our summer playlist for your listening pleasure. Spotify is my personal favorite for playlists and music in general (no shade to any AppleMusic users reading) and with over 500 million Spotify users worldwide it’s no surprise that it’s a necessity for this summer. Spotify has so many options for streaming starting at $4.99 a month for a student plan and up to $15.99 for a family plan. Another great thing about Spotify is that you’re able to cancel your subscription at any time, so when summer ends if you don’t want your subscription anymore you can cancel with no problem. Yoga/Pilates/Hot Girl Walks - A big trend in 2023 that has been making waves once again is body positivity and folks rebuilding their relationships with exercise. Now more than ever, exercise and exercise plans that motivate people to move, not lose weight or change themselves, are popular. This is a trend that I hope lasts past 2023, but this is your excuse to start. Try that hot yoga class your friend has been raving about! Use your new Spotify subscription to make a playlist for a hot girl walk around your neighborhood. The options are endless, and it’s never too soon to start moving for you. Ironic T-Shirts - My personal favorite summer 2023 trend/necessity (and a year-round necessity if you’re like me) is ironic t-shirts. There are so many options, and different shirts for every sense of humor. Nothing beats a good “Worlds Best Grandad” shirt as a coverup for your new bikini, or even at the beach after your post-saltwater-and-sun shower to just bum around and hang out in. These shirts are EVERYWHERE. Thrift stores, Depop, Wal-Mart, your wacky uncle's closet…. No matter the occasion, ironic t-shirts are the way to go. Supporting Local Businesses - Another trend that I think should last year round (and every year) is supporting local businesses! Supporting local businesses is an easy and efficient change that you can make. It also allows you to try new things. Instead of ordering your summer TBR list from Amazon, go to a local bookstore and find something you’ve never even heard of. This is easier in bigger cities, and I’m not saying you can only ever shop local, but shopping local is a great thing to do when/if possible. Swapping your daily Starbucks for a latte from the coffee shop down the street, stopping by the local farmers market when you can, and countless other options are available to start shopping locally. Written by Lucy Anderson

As usual, it's summer and you have nothing to do. So you doom scroll on TikTok for hours, expecting the boredom to magically evaporate and your bank account to no longer be in the negatives. As the city starts to warm up, we feel the taunting heat of trying to obtain a picturesque summer. Consider me your fairy godmother because I have the ultimate guide for all your summer city needs! Growing up in Brooklyn, the words “free” and NYC were never something I associated together. The city is known for being an expensive place to travel to and even more costly to live in. It was not until I started going to college in the city that I was exposed to the free or inexpensive experiences the city offers! So if you’re in NYC for the summer and are on a budget here are 23 fabulous activities going on right now: Movies on the Lawn at Bryant Park Celebrating its 30th season, Paramount+ Movie Nights return to Bryant Park. The event is free and takes place every Monday until August 21! Make sure to pack a blanket and secure your spot on the lawn. No other movie-going experience compares to watching some of your favorite movies under the city skyline! Free Museum days New York is filled with endless diverse and incredible museums. Going to all of them can become costly, especially if you are just visiting. But here’s a little secret…many museums are always free (or pay what you wish)! And some offer monthly or weekly free days! NYC-ARTS has a beneficial breakdown of dates and hours to visit some of NYC’s most iconic museums! My personal favorites are the MET and the Brooklyn Museum. Summerstage concert series If you love concerts like me, you probably know that tickets can get pretty pricey. Well, you are in luck because the Summerstage concert series has already begun across all five boroughs! The event is free – no hidden fees are checkout! The series runs until October with some notable performances from Lil Yachty, Diplo and so many more. You can check out the full lineup here! New Yayoi Kusama exhibit The new exhibition, “I Spend Each Day Embracing Flower” by legendary artist Yayoi Kusama exhibit is bursting with polka-dotted delight. The Chelsea exhibit at David Zwirner features exciting new paintings, sculptures, and an infinity room. Make sure you experience this immersive world of Kusama before it closes on July 21! Click here for all the details! Governors Island A hidden gem of NYC is the beautiful parks and art spaces on Governors Island. Perfect for a city escape that would break the bank! Plan a picnic with friends and enjoy some fresh air and relaxation. Getting to the Island is just a ferry ride away! Coney Island It’s not a New York City summer without a stop at Coney Island. Grab your sunscreen, towels, and your favorite page-turning beach read. Make sure to check off the amazing Broadwalk and pick up a couple of Nathan’s Famous hot dogs, after taking a spin on the Cyclone rollercoaster that Beyoncé famously rode in 2013 (what a year!). Shakespeare in the Park The 61st Free Shakespeare in the Park is back! The 2023 season will feature classics of Hamlet and the Tempest. Tickets must be reserved but there are many opportunities for free ticket distributions. Ye shall find all the information here! Art galleries NYC is the birthplace of so many artists and revolutionary movements. It’s the perfect stage to display the hottest new art. So many contemporary galleries are free to the public. It's a great way to support local artists and the culture of the city. Check out @thirstygallerina on Instagram for the best weekly gallery updates! Free Comedy shows Recently, I went to a comedy show at The Stand with a couple of friends. Warning, your face will hurt from how much you will be laughing! The show I attended was $30 however there are many great free comedy shows scattered around the city. Check out this article from TimeOut to laugh out loud without crying over the bill! Be part of a live audience I am going to share one of my favorite best-kept secrets (today is your lucky day!). Have you ever wanted to be part of a live studio audience? New York is home to so many different studios that offer fan experiences for free! All you have to do is create an account at 1olita.com and join the fan experience. Your request will get added to the queue and they will notify you if you have been chosen to be part of the audience. Last fall my friend and I got to see a taping of the Today Show starring Jimmy Fallon at the NBC Studio! Lottery broadway tickets *Under $50* Broadway tickets can be extremely pricey. But there are a few inexpensive ways to see the newest shows. Tons of shows offer daily lotteries that allow you to win up to two tickets at just $50! My favorite website for Broadway lotteries is Lucky Seats, which is currently offering tickets to shows like Funny Girl and Moulin Rouge. Another great way to snag cheap tickets is to go to the show's box office. Often shows will reserve a limited number of $50 tickets for standby. It never hurts to check, especially if you’re in the area! Visit a Botanic Garden Each of the city’s boroughs has its own Botanic Garden filled with unique and beautiful greenery. The gardens offer free entry during specific days of the week (refer to the free museum days link for details). The MET Cloisters The MET Cloister is another hidden gem of NYC. Many people do not know about the museum located in Washington Heights. The Metropolitan Museum of Art oversees The Met Cloisters. The art in the museum dates from the fall of Rome in the fourth century to the early sixteenth-century start of the Renaissance. Learn to tattoo *Under $50* If you have wanted to learn how to tattoo, this is the summer! FIB Tattoo is currently offering classes until July 29. Bucketlisters is offering executive tickets pricing starting at $45. So grab a friend and get tatting by clicking here! Malibu Barbie Cafe Come on Barbie, let’s go grab brunch at the Malibu Barbie Cafe! The brand new cafe has opened up at the Seaport in anticipation of the Barbie Movie, hitting theaters on July 21. The cafe transports you to 1970s Malibu Barbie style with many Instagram-able photo ops! Make a reservation before September 15! Fun Fact: Our social media manager works there! Say hello to Jake for us! Friday’s at Slate Buckelisters is partnering with Rose Gold Entertainment to offer exclusive $18 tickets every Friday at Slate NY– the club with a slide! An EDM-themed nightclub with top-notch smoke and light production is located on the top floor. You may enjoy a dance party on this floor while listening to traveling DJs like Young Bombs, Vavo, and others! Slide down to the bottom level to enjoy activities like life-size chess, bowling, skee ball, and more! Candle making *Under $50* Wick & Pour is offering $44 candle-making classes daily. The candle-making session comes with a chair and all the materials you need to create a candle. In an instructor-led class, you will select your preferred scent and vessel before measuring, mixing, and pouring your very own candle. BYOB for this class Brooklyn Flea The Brooklyn Flea in DUMBO is officially open for the season. Join hundreds of vendors every Saturday and Sunday selling food, art, jewelry, antiques, vintage clothing, furniture, and other items. One of New York's top urban experiences to shop secondhand! Good Morning America concert series The Friday Summer Concert Series presented by ABC's Good Morning America will take place at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park for its fifteenth year! The 2023 artist lineup and performance dates are coming soon. As information becomes available, it will be posted on the Central Parks website. For updates, sign up here! Doors open at 6:00 AM for live performances on Fridays from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM during the "Good Morning America" show. Free tickets are available upon request. Support small businesses We all love the convenience of Amazon, but the summer is a great opportunity to get out there a shop small by supporting businesses. NYC is home to so many unique shops and markets. My favorite stores are 99 cents stores that are scattered all around the city. They have everything you need from party supplies, home decor, and even art supplies for all those summer DIYs! Rowboat central park $20 Get some friends together and row a boat around Central Park Lake. Perfect for after a picnic on the lawn. The boats are first come, first serve and hold up to 4 people. The boats only cost $20 per hour! Day trips New York City and New York State are filled with so much culture and richness that rarely gets explored because they are not the most buzz-worthy attractions. Summer is a great opportunity to explore new places around the five boroughs and the state itself. You never know, you might just find your new favorite lunch spot or the perfect place to relax and read! I recommend traveling to Forest Hills, Queens, or Brooklyn's Chinatown! Just get out there and explore! For many of us, summer is a time to relax and unwind. Find something that speaks to you and go out there and do it. Take a walk and snap some photos along the way. Sit in the park and journey. Throw an epic dinner party with your closest friends. It's up to you, the possibilities are endless. It is so easy to get caught up in other people's lives and what everyone else is doing. Take this time to explore your own interests and hobbies. Best of all it's free! Written by Olivia Vella Photography by Arnold Okyere Models: Joe St. Pierre, Alex Demeny Production Assistance/BTS by Jake Pranian

Summer is in full swing, and if you’re from the tri-state area, you probably know what a summer down the shore is like. There’s nowhere quite like the Jersey Shore, especially in the months between Memorial Day and Labor Day. With this evaluation of New Jersey’s most popular shore towns, choose your next summer house destination. Seaside Seaside attracts the fans of the show Jersey Shore. People who spend their summers here have 2 personality traits: 1. Italian, 2. Spends summers at the Jersey Shore. They come from New York and claim their accents are Italian. They fake tan until they’re the color of Donald Trump, live by the motto “Gym. Tan. Laundry.”, and have probably made a tik tok lip syncing to Snooki’s iconic line “Where’s the beach!?” while running on the beach. The Seaside is Point Pleasant but tackier. It's got all the same amenities. Clubs, beaches, a boardwalk, shopping, etc, but it still manages to acquire the nickname “Sleazeside”. It's not cheap to spend a summer here, yet everyone who does acts low class. Point Pleasant The point, in my opinion, is the best of the more touristy beach towns. It is not my beach of choice, but I can respect those of you who pick this town to rent a summer house. Arnold Ave is home to some of the best restaurants and overpriced boutiques. If you’re into boardwalk games and rides, Jenkinson (often referred to as Jenks) is the spot for you. Not only is the boardwalk fun for kids but if you’re over the age of 21 and you check out Jenkinson’s Pavilion or Martell’s Tiki Bar, you’re bound to have a good time. Wildwood There’s nowhere quite like Wildwood. Something about the air in this town influences bad decisions and peer pressure. It's the place where teenage girls get haggled into piercing their belly buttons for a ridiculous price. And no, I’m not speaking from experience. After about an hour, the neon lights that line the boardwalk advertising shops will start to get to your head, and next thing you know you’ll be purchasing a pair of booty shorts that say “I LOVE CHICK FIL A” on the butt. No teenage boy has ever left the town without posting a group picture of him and his “boys” shirtless in front of the infamous beach balls and “WILDWOOD” sign. And they always caption it something like “We put the wild in Wildwood”. Take this as you will, but if you ask me, bad decisions always create the best memories. Ocean City If you’ve ever worn a bikini on an Ocean City beach, you’ve probably experienced the death stare from a middle-aged woman whose husband is too busy giving you the “fuck me” eyes to notice his child is eating sand. I have a feeling that if you’re a swinger, Ocean City is the vacation destination for you. I can’t say I’ve ever noticed upside-down pineapples on any front lawns, but I mean it's a dry town, and the only liquor store is across the bridge. Parents have to have fun somehow, right? All jokes aside, Ocean City is a beautiful town. It’s a family town, sure, but it is great at what it's meant for. There are mini golf, bike rentals, and amusement rides lining the boardwalk. Shopping is mostly limited to touristy t-shirts and trinkets, but don’t worry, they put the most fragile items on the edge of the shelf, so when your kid knocks it over and breaks it, you’ll have to pay for it! Long Beach Island LBI, rarely ever referred to by its full name, is the place where tweens go to train for Jersey Shore summers before they turn 21. The Marlin is where you’ll find every person between the ages of 13-17 when they hold their “teen nights'' on Tuesdays and Thursdays. On every other day of the week, you’ll find them at house parties, beach parties, or swarming Bay Village trying to avoid the cops and looking for a discreet place to make out with each other. LBI is also known for the Chicken or the Egg, more commonly referred to as the Chegg, because of its reputation for making the best hangover food, and I can’t say I disagree. Stone Harbor Stone Harbor is for the Rafe Camerons and Blaire Waldorfs of the world. They’re classy from a distance but if you get too close you might notice remnants of white powder in their nostrils. They spend most of their time shopping in overpriced boutiques with daddy’s credit card to make up for the fact that they peaked in high school. However, there’s a reason those types of people choose Stone Harbor. It is home to some great shopping that, I think, makes for an excellent day trip. Beyond that, you may find yourself driving the fifteen minutes to Wildwood to visit the boardwalk that Stone Harbor lacks. Asbury Park (editor's addition) Asbury is where people come to get drunk and go to concerts at the Stone Pony. They also have some cool artwork on their boardwalk, which is mostly bars, restaurants, and shops. It’s a nice beach to chill at before a concert. Long Branch (editor’s addition) Besides Pier Village and a small town area, Long Branch doesn’t have many tourist attractions. This makes it a good residential area, besides the traffic and lack of parking by the beach. Long Branch is home to Monmouth University, so you can always find some good parties if you look hard enough. This is the location for the photoshoot! Written by Madi Milchman Pictures Shot and Edited by Andrew Lepping Models: Fiah Cole, Cate Lepore Editor Addition by Sophia Querrazzi

As summer starts, many New York residents want to leave the city and experience nature. From wildlife conservations to botanical gardens, here are the best spots to experience nature in NYC. Snug Harbor Botanical Garden (Staten Island): Snug Harbor Botanical Garden contains some of the five boroughs' oldest and most unique architecture and gardens. Originally a retirement home for sailors during the 1800s, Snug Harbor is now used as a cultural center and a way to experience nature. The New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden is only one of two authentic classic Chinese gardens in the US. Based on the gardens of the Ming Dynasty, the garden takes inspiration from Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist art and philosophers. Visitors get to walk through a bamboo forest, and waterfall, and see the koi fish pond. The garden is open year-round for guests to experience the garden through the four seasons. Central Park (Manhattan): Central Park, located in the heart of the city, is the city's most well-known park. It offers many opportunities to experience nature, including The Ramble, a 36-acre garden, that gives you the chance to experience the forests of upstate New York in the middle of the city. Home to local wildlife and unique landscapes such as Belvedere Castle and Bethesda Terrace, this part of the park is located between 73rd and 79th Street. Another iconic part of the park is Harlem Meer, located in the northeast corner of the park. Harlem Meer gives people the chance to relax and experience nature. Many community events and activities are held here, such as catch-and-release fishing, swimming, and skating. Harlem Meer is located between 106th and 110th Street on the East Side. New York Botanical Garden (Bronx): The New York Botanical Garden is the biggest botanical garden in NYC. The garden is located in Bronx Park and gives visitors the chance to see over one million living plants over its 250 acres. The Thain Family Forest is the last remnant of the vast forest that covered New York City before colonization. It is split by the Bronx River, and many of the trees in the forest are over two centuries old. Another year-round garden is the Ladies’ Border. Originally named after the women who designed many of the gardens in the botanical garden. Ladies’ Border allows guests to see plants from across the globe, such as Peruvian Lillies and South African bulbs. Brooklyn Botanical Garden (Brooklyn): The Brooklyn Botanical Garden is home to over 14,000 different species of plants. Founded in 1910, the 52-acre park brings in over a million visitors to its different gardens. The Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden is one of the first Japanese gardens to be built outside of Japan. It blends the ancient Japanese “hill-and-pond” style with more modern styles. The three hills in the garden signify heaven, humanity, and earth, while the koi fish pond located in the middle of the garden was made to signify the heart. The Native Flora Garden was the first part of the park to open back in 1911. The small forest contains many plants native to New York State. The forest attracts many different types of fauna, such as hummingbirds and hawks. Wave Hill (Bronx): Wave Hill Public Garden and Cultural Center gives visitors a beautiful view of the Hudson River and the New Jersey Palisades. Originally an estate during the 19th and 20th centuries, Wave Hill is now famous for its botanical garden and its art exhibits. The Wild Garden is a hillside garden that gives you views of the Palisades as you walk through. In full bloom during the spring into autumn, the garden is home to different species of plants, such as Evergreen Trees and Japanese forest grass. North of the Wild Garden is the aquatic and monocot gardens. The two gardens are home to different aquatic animals and plants, such as frogs and water lilies. Both gardens thrive during the summer months, with many of their plants going into full bloom. Brooklyn Grange Farm (Brooklyn-Queens): The Brooklyn Grange is the largest rooftop farm in the world. Running through Brooklyn and Queens, these rooftop farms provide over 50,000 pounds of produce to New Yorkers throughout the five boroughs. The Grange is used by the community for picnics, workshops, fitness lessons such as yoga, and for farm dinners. The urban farm is only open from May up until October. Pelham Bay Park (Bronx): Pelham Bay Park is the largest public park in NYC. Over 2,700 acres and over three times the size of Central Park, the park is home to different trails and a 13-mile shoreline. Twin Island, the northmost section of the park, gives hikers a mesmerizing view of the Long Island Sound. Along with the Sound, Twin Island is also one of the city's last salt marshes. The most well-known part of Pelham Bay Park is Orchard Beach, attracting visitors from all five boroughs. Over 1.1 miles long, the beach faces the Long Island Sound and is usually called the Riviera of the city. Staten Island Greenbelt (Staten Island): The Staten Island Greenbelt is the second biggest park in the city. The Greenbelt has the most diverse flora and fauna in all of NYC, with wetlands and different types of amphibians inhabiting the park. One of the biggest attractions at the park is Moses Mountain. Great for families to hike, the top of the mountain has unforgettable views of all of the Greenbelt and the Jersey Atlantic Highlands. Prospect Park (Brooklyn): Prospect Park is the second largest public park in Brooklyn, and the most popular. Situated between iconic neighborhoods such as Prospect Heights, Flatbush, and Park Slope, the park gives the borough a piece of nature. The Ravine, at the heart of Prospect Park, is the only forest in Brooklyn. The Ravine’s defining feature is the waterfall, and the park is home to 200 species of flora. Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge (Queens): The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is the best place to birdwatch in NYC. The 9,000-acre park is home to two different ponds, West Pond and Big John’s Pond. The two ponds have attracted over 330 species of birds over 25 years. Written by Carla Paz

Half-Past Twelve by Moxie Moxie is a small band from Vermont that cannot be classified as just an indie pop band when there are hints of rock and r&b. “Half-Past Twelve” has a perfect entrance into the song, with a little bit of the electric guitar getting picked up and carried to blend naturally with other instruments. This song is one that you’d nod your head with on the drive to the beach with your friends. Getting lost in the rhythm of the song but also observing the self-aware lyrics, it’s a beautiful juxtaposition between how the music makes you feel compared to the words of the song. Anybody by Maeta Maeta uses her vocals to beautifully express the wants of one specific person. Her alternative R&B album “When I Hear Your Name” takes a fun change with the song “Anybody” with a deeper bass and drum. The collaboration with SZA for the writing, you can hear background vocals and adlibs that truly complete the song. This is just a feel-good song with lyrics that show the yearning for someone. It can potentially make you feel down bad, but you can’t help to dance along. While there is not much depth within the lyrics, it’s enough for just about anybody to relate to, either on a good or bad day! Get Lost by Windser Another upbeat song with somber lyrics that hit hard. Windser (Jordan Topf) is an indie/alternative writer and “Get Lost” was just released on June 12th with dreamy guitar riffs and strong drums. The track begins bubbly and fun and continues throughout. However, if you are listening to the words, he expresses how there is a sense of desperation in trying to figure out the feelings of anxiety and depression and how to abandon them. By the end of the song Topf conveys that, sometimes leaving everything behind and going into the unknown can be the “answer” to getting through difficult emotions. That Is My Life, That Is Yours by King Krule King Krule released his album “Space Heavy” with metaphorical and mesmerizing lyrics that quite literally can send you off into space. “That Is My Life, That Is Yours” is more of a jazzy song with the addition of a beautiful saxophone solo which further elaborates on the feeling of getting lost and looking for love. By 1:40 in the song, the melancholy beat transitions into an instrumental with drums and an electric guitar, which feels as though it represents some sort of continual cycle of searching for love. Written by Archy Marshall, his deep voice is soothing and simultaneously enigmatic, creating an alluring listening experience. It can be a delicate wind-down song or an introspective approach to the lyrics and their meaning. Hypochondriac by Savoia Savoia, an NYC indie rock band released their single “Hypochondriac” with strong drums and a sick guitar riff preparing the chorus. I felt like I was listening to an early 2000’s rock song with lead singer, Lucas Allan’s, rich voice carrying through the song. The added “oohs” and “ahs” prep for this to be an interactive song heard live. The verses have a slow catchy beat to head nod to while transitioning into the fun instrumentals behind the chorus. The bridge has angsty lyrics to sing along with and ends with an insane electric guitar, bass, and drum to finish off. Attention by Doja Cat Her comeback to music has been greatly anticipated by pretty much everyone. The beginning of the track feels like a dream with a plethora of instrumentals next to her light vocals. Once she begins to rap, the lyrics are clever and witty showing her true place in the music industry. Doja did not come to play with this song, and I’m sure is only growing the excitement fans have for more music. Her flow on the beat moves quickly but smoothly and her lyric “Look at me, look at me/ You lookin’?” truly highlights her confidence in what she is doing and wants everyone to know it. “Attention” is that song that the lyrics truly show Doja Cat got to where she is with her hard work and talent, no funny business. Where You Go by Kiana Ledé & Khalid The beautiful vocals harmonizing by Ledé and Khalid make this song what it is. The R&B song has a strong background beat with lyrics that showcases the dedication of being close to one person. It embodies how much of an effect a significant other can have on one’s emotions, reactions, and livelihood. The minor but obvious manipulation of the vocals at the start makes this song intriguing but also ironically honest within the lyrics. This track is a quick one but worth it to be played on repeat with its catchy recurrent lyrics at the end. Long Limbs by The Brook and The Bluff The Brook & The Bluff set the tone for their upcoming album “Bluebeard” (out September 15th) with the release of the new single “Long Limbs”—a funky alternative song with an airy musical background and strong drums. The song encapsulates the desire of wanting to go back to the good parts of a relationship with someone. Trying to stay in touch with being in love rather than allowing the relationship to run its course. With the song beginning and ending with the same lyrics, “Pick up where we left off/ I don’t think we could”, it indicates that although there is hope in mending what has happened and moving on, it is not realistic But Not Kiss by Faye Webster Webster’s return to releasing music with the new single “But Not Kiss” is tenacious yet afraid, gracious yet aloof, aspiring yet feckless. A beautiful contradictory song filled with confusion but understanding. The track starts soft and slow and then transitions into an abrupt array of instrumentals and this continues throughout the song. The line begins slow and steady with lyrics of yearning, “I want to see you in my dreams…” and then the addition of sudden instrumentals of the piano and drums on the line, “but then forget”. The way the music ties together with the emotion of the lyrics shows Webster’s consistency in creating heart-hitting songs about being in love or being anti-love, whichever resonates. On My Mama by Victoria Monét Sampling Chalie Boy’s early 00’s “I Look Good”, Victoria Monét adds an R&B positive twist to the song. Her soulful dreamy voice combined with positive affirmations through the track, “On My Mama” is one of those self-empowering songs. While it’s a slower and more chill vibe, it is definitely one played to hype yourself up while getting ready to go out. A feel-good song that uplifts while simultaneously vibing, a great pair! One lyric being, “Done being the humble type”, Monét’s confidence is evident and mixed well with superb horns and a groovy bass in the back. Perceptions by Meshell Ndegeocello ft Jason Morgan For those who appreciate beautiful instrumentals rather than the story behind the lyrics, Meshell Ndegeocello’s “Perceptions” ft Jason Morgan is worth the listen. A short track with repeating sentences can emotionally send you in ways never thought of before. “Don’t let your outside world / Distract you from your inner world” is sung as almost a mantra, a reminder for yourself, while a soothing piano plays in the back. The piano solo after the chant is done is trance-like, making it difficult to not reflect on how the melody, along with the words makes you feel. A slower song on her album, “The Omnichord Real Book”; however, the ethereal aura while playing it makes it feel as if time is moving slowly. SKINSUIT by Sam The Woo "SKINSUIT” is a groovy, eclectic, and striking single released on June 23rd by artist Sam The Woo. Her unique voice and use of instrumentals create a mixture of eccentric jazz/r&b sounds. The strong bass hit towards the end of the song, with Sam’s tranquil voice humming alongside it preparing for the last verse. All I can say is it is obvious the creative thought and care put into the making of this song. The witty and imaginative lyrics express the feelings of feeling trapped within yourself, showing up as a different person towards others. Written by Amy Kapel Graphic by Ryan Murray

Jennie Livingston’s 1990 documentary Paris is Burning acknowledges that family doesn’t always mean blood, a notion that is well understood by the LGBTQ+ community. When unaccepting parents and a prejudiced society ostracize queer youth from their childhood homes and comforts, they are left to fend for themselves and search for a new sense of belonging. Pepper LaBeija, a legendary drag queen and mother of House LaBeija says in the film, “When someone has rejection from their mother and father, their family, when they get out in the world, they search. They search for someone to fill that void.” Livingston’s film investigates this all too familiar experience by interviewing African and Latin American individuals from the drag-ball scene in Harlem, New York. Queer people of all ages flocked to the streets of New York to search for the acceptance and love that their own families wouldn’t offer them. Often, they would come across like minded people and become adopted by the different “houses” such as LaBeija, Xtravaganza, and Ninja which participated in drag-balls. The balls were places for people to compete in various fashion and appearance competitions as well as to dance and strut down the ballroom floor. While these communities have been described as “gay street gangs” and are highly competitive when it comes to the fashion and vogueing at the balls, they have also been described as “families for a lot of children who don’t have families.” In many ways the houses are a more accepting version of the nuclear American family. The members of each house take its name for their own, are shown in photos that could easily be mistaken for family portraits, and are cared for by mothers and fathers of the house. Where queer teens may have been abandoned by their own homophobic parents that wouldn’t allow them to express themselves as they truly are, they gain a new identity in these houses that will support and protect them from the homophobia and racism that plagues the streets. One member of House Xtravaganza shares that for their birthday every year Angie Xtravaganza, the mother of the house, would give them a birthday gift but their real mother wouldn’t. These mothers of each house are established because of their talent and power within the drag-ball scene but more importantly because they are protectors of their house’s children. They offer sanctuary and security to members who have no one to turn to and want to get back on their feet.Though they may not share the same blood or background, the fact that they share queer identities and experiences creates an unassailable bond,“I say that’s my sister because she’s gay too and I’m gay.” Paris is Burning depicts a time within LGBTQ+ history that is plagued by fear and loss from the AIDS pandemic as well as the ever present danger of homophobia and transphobia on the streets of New York. The sense of camaraderie and acceptance that the drag balls and houses provided at the time show how essential community and belonging is to queer people. The drag balls were places to show pride for yourself and to let your peers celebrate you with trophies and applause. At these shows a person could be whoever they wanted to be and act however they wanted to without judgment, “we’re not going to be shady, just fierce.” ​​ There was something for everyone at the shows no matter the participants' resources or appearance. Categories at the balls included everything from butch queen and luscious body to upcoming pretty girl and schoolboy/schoolgirl realness. Regardless of class, gender, or race a person could walk away from the ballroom competitions with a trophy and know that they belonged somewhere. Winning one of the awards has been equated to winning an Oscar or achieving celebrity amongst their peers. The drag-ball and house culture in Harlem during the ‘80s and ‘90s showcases the indisputable value of community to LGBTQ+ youth. These found families and ballroom shows created a sense of purpose and solidarity that is essential to young queer people who have been estranged from both their own families and society. In these spaces people didn’t have to feel shame because they didn’t conform to societal standards or because they looked a certain way, instead they were celebrated for being different and true to themselves amongst the people who loved and protected them fiercely. Livingston’s documentary is essential viewing and perfect to watch this Pride month! The film is a cultural touchstone within the queer community and documentary filmmaking at large. With interviews from BIPOC individuals and stories from queer icons, you are guranteed to take away a new understanding of LGBTQ+ history from the movie. Paris is Burning is currently streaming and available to buy on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Max. Written by Lindsay Paul

Sam The Woo is a rising local singer and musician making her way into the indie pop/funk scene. After moving to NYC from California to attend Pace University, Sam dropped out with only one semester to go, which she discussed during our interview, and took the opportunity to follow her dreams and dive head first into creating music. Having just dropped her sophomore single “SKINSUIT”, Sam describes it as “bright, soul-based and expands as the song progresses”. Read below to get to know Sam The Woo, hear advice, and a sneak peek at what's next to come! What was your inspiration for your new single “SKINSUIT”? I made up the word Skinsuit to label that artificial version of myself I carried around my whole adolescence. I never fit into the “it’s cool not to care” mentality because I’m such a passion project kind of person. But for a long time, I tried to (unsuccessfully) be cool. Skinsuit is a story of basically giving myself therapy - validating that there is a false persona I’m putting on, and then saying out loud “I want me back”. That line feels really powerful to me, speaking a change into existence. How would you describe your sound? My upcoming EP is overall very textured and genre-blending. I love the idea of a sonic universe: making a world that transports you like a fantasy novel. SKINSUIT is the most carefree-sounding track on the EP. It’s bright, soul-based, and expands as the song progresses. That’s another theme in my music, expansion as a product of storytelling. I come from the world of musical theater and listened to a lot of older country music as a kid, both of which base their songs on stories. So I guess it makes sense that I like my music to feel like an odyssey. What sets you apart from other artists working their way up in the industry? My musical “mission statement” is that I want to make music that truly sounds original and is experimental while still being comprehensible. As a result, my music is very genre-blending and unique. As more of my discography gets released you’ll hopefully see that “my sound” isn’t directly comparable to anyone else, while it does have moments of clear inspiration. SKINSUIT is actually the most “genre-aligned” track I have right now sitting comfortably in soul pop with influences from Lawrence and Sammy Rae. I’m also uniquely dedicated to creating the visual worlds for my music and really being involved at every stage. Historically I would have said being a female music producer, but the lovely thing is there are so many amazing female music producers making music right now, especially since the pandemic. What was the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? I left college with one semester to go this year, and I think the advice people gave me in making that decision had such a huge impact on me. My dad, for example, who is a very accomplished academic, said to me “Don’t feel guilty about following your dreams, this is your life.” That still makes me emotional because that statement made me realize how guilty I felt for stepping off the traditional path. And it let me realize I didn’t have good enough justification for my guilt to hold onto it. What artists do you look up to? Everyone who knows me knows this: Remi Wolf. She is just so chaotic and good in her music, and on stage, she is absolutely feral. She’s not looking to be beautiful or refined, she’s being so authentic. It’s really inspirational as a female artist and someone who wants to build an electric live show. Other artists I love are Cody Fry (his orchestral approach!!) as well as Laufey, Sammy Rae, Lawrence, Billie Eilish, Norah Jones, and Earth Wind and Fire. What is your process when creating music? Usually, the lyrics come first because I have been into poetry far longer than I have been writing songs. Then the melody and then usually a bassline. Then I try to find the world around it…where is its sonic center? Does this sound add focus to that center or distract from it? Rinse and repeat. Do you play any instruments? I play many instruments at a passable level because as a producer I like understanding how the instruments practically function. That’s why I had my dad teach me drums. I knew it would improve my composing skills to know the mechanics of what a drummer is doing. I also play guitar, drums, uke, piano, and silver flute! What is something people may not know about you? I went to a technology-free Waldorf school for 5 years and didn’t use any devices at home during that time either. When did you begin singing/creating music? Music was already on in my house growing up, but outside of a couple theater camps, I didn’t sing a solo until my 8th-grade graduation. I didn’t start writing songs until the end of high school, and even then it was a slow start. I’d write a couple things and leave them for months and then circle back. Over time they became more and more complex and then I got Logic and now we’re here. Besides the release of your new song, do you have anything else exciting in the works? My friend Patrick and I are making a stop-motion music video for the next song and it’s been both challenging and fun to work in a medium that I know almost nothing about. I love learning new things even if I don’t master them. And I think that love is reflected in my dedication to the world of my songs. I want to be really involved in making the visuals and thinking about the details of what it takes to make this world. Sam The Woo’s “SKINSUIT” music video drops on 6/28, so be sure to check it out and stream “SKINSUIT” now! You can stay updated with Sam’s social media with the link below so you know when another song drops. Written by Grace Bugin Photography by Domenick Fini Styling and CD by Ka'enaaloha Watson