[Image description: A foot wearing Birkenstock sandals is perched on a rock.] Via Pexels
2020 is just around the corner, which means Christmas shopping, resolutions, and jam-packed stores are well on their way. And while the ‘new year, new me’ mentality is still fresh in our minds, let’s direct that sense of renewal and change towards saying goodbye to some of fashion’s biggest sins from this past year!
I am all for self-expression, but there are some trends that really make me want to scream, “WHY?” and also, “HOW?”.The worst part is that these trends have gotten immensely popular, which is as concerning as it is surprising.
Here’s a recap of 7 fashion trends that emerged in 2019, but definitely should not make it into 2020.
1. Boiler suits
[Image description: A woman wearing a navy blue boiler suit.] Via Amazon.I feel like this trend is having an identity crisis. I don’t even think it knows what it is, let alone what it wants you to be when you wear it.
It doesn’t know whether it wants you to be a skydiver, a member of a quarantine unit, the latest inmate on OITNB, or an extra on Top Gun whose 4-second appearance got cut out in post-production. Whatever the case, this look does not belong in your closet.
2. Dad sneakers
[Image description: Gray, white, and blue colored jogging shoes.] Via Amazon.I get it, they’re comfortable. They make you feel like you’re walking on air. But – and I hate to be the one to break this to you – they don’t look nice worn with dresses, skirts, or any attire that is not intended for running. They don’t compliment the outfit at all.
Besides, they’re called ‘dad sneakers’ for a reason. Pass them on to your old man and move along.
3. Bike shorts
[Image description: A woman standing with one knee bent wearing a white top, white sneakers, and gray bike shorts.] Via Forever 21.I don’t even want to know why anyone thought these would be okay to wear as an everyday look. They are not complimentary at all. Say it with me: in 2020, we save gym-wear for the gym!
4. Puff-sleeves or power shoulders
[Image description: A woman wearing a pink puff-sleeved shirt with a python-printed pleated skirt and black open-toed heels.] Via SaksFifthAvenue.Hi, the 80s called, they want their unnecessarily dramatic shoulder silhouettes back.
I never understood why or how the padded shoulder look made its way into the fashion world, both in the 80s and now. I also don’t understand why anyone would want their shoulders to look so puffy. It makes everything look so disproportionate!
5. Birkenstocks
[Image description: A woman wearing black jeans and tan Birkenstock sandals with orange nail polish on her toes.] Via Flickr.Why are we even having this conversation? When did this become fashion? I feel like 2019 has turned into the year of wearing anything and everything that’s in your dad’s closet. Stop it!
6. Puffy, fluffy, or pom-pom sandals
[Image description: A woman with toenails painted bright white is wearing sandals covered in fluffy yellow pom-poms.] Via IvyRose.Unless you plan on auditioning for Sesame Street as the newest Muppet, don’t do this. I don’t care how comfortable they are, these better be the first trend to die in 2020.
7. Cargo pants
[Image description: A woman stands against a white wall wearing dark cargo pants with a white shirt.] Via Flickr.Yet another item we’ve taken from dad’s closet! One we should have left there. This style never belonged in any year or decade unless you were a member of the armed forces. May it die in 2020 once and for all!
Which trend is your most hated, and which is your – dare I say – favorite?
[Image description: One woman whispers into the ear of the other.] Via Ben White on Unsplash
I think most people who speak a native language at home other than English can empathize with the fact that what we say in our languages, doesn’t always make sense when translated to English. When I was a kid, I didn’t really pick up on this idea of how things translate. Fast forward to adulthood and suddenly I am sitting at my kitchen table trying to explain to my American friend why “ash on your head” in Assyrian is a perfectly normal thing to say.
The Assyrian language is a dialect of the ancient Akkadian language and its culture is one full of rich history. Once a powerful empire, it now has no country of its own today. After the fall of the Assyrian Empire, much of the Assyrian population became dispersed throughout the Middle East. To date, Assyrian people are considered an indigenous group and often reside throughout the Middle East, Americas, Europe, and Australia.
The Assyrian language has its fair share of phrases and idioms that will make you laugh and scratch your head. Whatever the case, they add to the beauty that is the Assyrian culture.
The following are some of the most humorous Assyrian phrases that make absolutely no sense when translated into English. Let’s see which ones end up being your favorite:
1. Qitma brishookh (m)/brishakh (f); Ash on your head
[Image description: A woman in a black gown and veil says, “I beg your pardon?”] Via GiphyLet that sink in. This is typically said to someone that did something stupid or not wise. For example, if someone decided to take their car out and do donuts while blindfolded, you would say, “ash on your head.”
2. Brikhta hamamookh (m)/hamamakh (f); Congratulations on your shower or bless your shower
[Image description: A man wearing a tuxedo holds a glass up while smiling.] Via GiphyYou bathed – way to go tiger! What can I say, we are a culture that believes in positive reinforcement and affirmations. This phrase actually means that we hope your shower refreshed you. When you shower, you’re washing away the day so you should feel refreshed, clean, and clear of mind.
3. Saat’ookh patkha (m)/Saat’akh patkha (f); Your watch will open
[Image description: A man in a green coat says, “I give up.”] Via GiphyI am 30 years old and still don’t quite get this one. This is typically said before the shower and Assyrian families say that you should take a shower to open your watch. I believe what it means is take a shower to change your mood or to clear your mind. Let’s just go with that.
4. Khilee libookh (m)/libakh (f); I ate your heart
[Image description: A woman in a black coat says “That is so beautiful!”] Via GiphyLet me tell you something – you have never been loved if your significant other doesn’t tell you they want to eat your heart. Jokes aside, this can actually be said in different contexts. A couple can say this to each other. A parent to a child. Friends to friends. Usually it’s said when one person says or does something sweet, you will hear the other say something like I ate your heart. It is a term of endearment in most cases.
5. Avit baseema (m)/Oyat bassimta (f); May you be tasty
[Image description: A woman sitting a table with a hat and black earrings with a black dress says, “You’re making me blush.”] Via GiphySounds odd, I know. This is actually how you would say thank you to someone. Not that they’re actually tasty.
6. Lavit baseema (m)/Layat bassimta (f); Don’t be tasty
[Image description: A man laying on a couch, talking on the phone says, “That’s not nice.”] Via GiphyThis is precisely the opposite of the prior one. You would use this if someone says or does something that is displeasing to you. This can be used in so many different situations from playful banter to being legitimately upset. It basically means, “no thanks will be given to you.”
7. Eedookh la maree (m)/Eedakh la maree (f); May your hands not get tired
[Image description: A man looks at both of his hands in astonishment.] Via GiphyThis is a really polite thing to say. You can say this to someone who has cooked a meal, after you finish it. You can also say it to someone that works with their hands like an architect or a builder.
8. Libee khleesele; My heart is squeezed
[Image description: A man in a navy blue suit, holds his heart and says, “My heart actually hurt when you just said that.”] Via GiphyThis is a very sweet comment. It is basically how you would say “I miss you” to someone. It means you miss them so much your heart feels like it’s literally being squeezed from the pain of being apart.
9. Doochtookh spikta (m)/Doochtakh spikta (f); Your space is empty
[Image description: Two women are sitting next to each other, and one says, “You missed me!” to the other.] Via GiphyThis is another phrase that is equally polite as it is nice to say to someone. You typically would say this if say you are having a get together in your home and your friend calls saying they aren’t able to attend. You would say this in the context of telling them you wish they were here because their lack of presence is noticeable.
10. Chooseeta mooteeloon brishe; They put a hat on my head
[Image description: A woman in a multi-colored sweater is holding a red funnel and says, “So I got this funnel, gonna tell you right now it’s a scam.”] Via GiphyBoy oh boy have I been able to say this a few times in my life. You usually use this phrase when you have been conned or cheated. For example, say you go shopping and you get sold a product that is faulty, you would say they put a hat on my head. It is a way of saying they made me look foolish.
11. Qa tara tay qat jooyda shameh; Tell the door so the wall hears
[Image description: A man in a suit and blue tie says, “You might want to listen.”] Via GiphyYou would do this when you want someone to listen to you, so you speak indirectly to them by talking to someone else while being around the other person. So, for example, say you are sitting at the table and you say to your friend, “I wish someone would take the trash out” when in fact you want your husband to hear so he takes it out. You’re talking to the door so the wall hears.
12. In basmalookh (m)/In basmalakh (f); If it pleases you or if it cures you
[Image description: A man in a suit is sitting at a desk and takes his glasses off in frustration.] Via GiphyThis actually doesn’t mean either of those things. Shocking, I know. It’s actually how you would say please to someone.
13. Keesee qarta mikhyala; My stomach got a cold
[Image description: A woman in a grey sweatshirt says, “Oh, my God. I just got hot. Yeah, my pits are sweating. My stomach hurts. Oh, my God!”] Via GiphyYes, in Assyrian even your organs can catch colds. You usually say this if you ate something bad or if you have the stomach bug.
14. Aynookh chpeenena (m)/Aynakh chpeenena (f); Your eyes are hungry
[Image description: A woman wearing an orange coat and a woman in a black coat are facing a window, while one yells, “No, my eyes, my eyes!”] Via GiphyYou would normally say this to someone that wants to eat more but isn’t necessarily hungry. They are looking at the food and contemplating if they should grab another plate, but they’re really full.
15. B’cheela biyee la qashik; Don’t look crooked at me
[Image description: A woman dressed in a furry red dress with her black hair up stares ahead with a stern look.] Via GiphyIn other words, don’t give me attitude.
16. Laa sharshiyet (m)/Laa sharshiyat (f); May you not get tired
[Image description: A woman in a plaid coat, sits at a desk while stretching her neck.] Via GiphyThis is a very polite phrase to say. You typically say this to someone that comes home from work or someone that has been studying all night. It’s a nice way of saying I hope the day did not tire you.
17. Rishookh shakheenileh? (m)/Rishakh shakheenileh? (f); Is your head hot?
[Image description: A woman angrily claps her hands repeatedly in the face of another woman.] Via GiphyNo, this has nothing to do with having a fever. You say this to someone that wants to pick a fight or is picking a fight.
18. Khool ikhreh; Eat poop
[Image description: A woman wearing a headscarf and orange kurti says, “Let me know if you want crap. Eat dirt or eat crap.”] Via GiphyYep that’s right. It’s a more aggressive way of saying shut up in Assyrian. You can say this in two settings: 1) someone that ticks you off and you want them to shut up or 2) to a friend in a joking/banter kind of manner.
[Image description: A woman is grabbing a green container full of a white product with a green bottle next to her hand.] Via Toa Heftiba on Unsplash.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Snow, hot chocolate, ice-skating, Christmas shopping, and so much more to look forward to! But while the holiday season is amazing, it can be a bit harsh on your skin. Having to transition from warmer temperatures to hand-numbing cold can do a lot of damage, which is why it’s important to incorporate skincare products that will keep your skin looking and feeling soft, smooth, and youthful, regardless of the weather.
Here are 6 products, listed in order of application, that are winter skincare must haves! While these products can and should be used year round, these particular versions are best suited to harsh winter weather.
Note: I have very sensitive skin and have tried many different types of skincare routines over the years until I found one that was best suited for my skin. I have combination skin, so I tend to get oily in my T-zone area, while the rest of my face is relatively dry. As with any skincare product, you should consider whether or not the product will work for your skin specifically before using it, and always do a patch test in advance!
1. Toner
Toner is a multi-purpose product. It takes away any excess dirt that might be left over after washing your face, while also adding pH balance, hydration, and clarity to the skin. I typically apply my toner with a cotton pad and wait one minute before moving on to the next step. It’s important not to use toners that have alcohol or astringents in them as these ingredients tend to dry out your skin!
[Image description: A clear bottle with a red cap and a label that reads ‘facial toner’.] Via Amazon.My favorite toner is the Thayers Witch Hazel Facial Toner in Rose Petal. It is completely alcohol-free and infused with aloe vera, which gives your skin the TLC it needs and deserves!
2. Essence
There is some confusion in the beauty world as to what the difference is between toner and essence. Essence originated in Korean skincare and is intended to add moisture into the skin prior to applying any other products. It is supposed to give you a flawless base to work with and you are supposed to apply it after toner.
Typically I apply a little bit of essence into the palms of my hands, then gently dab the product into my face in an upwards, pressing motion.
[Image description: A clear bottle that has red writing that reads ‘SK-II’.] Via Sephora.My go-to essence is one by SK-II. It’s pretty pricey, but worth every dime! You’ll notice a difference in your skin within a week!
3. Serum
A serum is intended to apply moisture to the face prior to using moisturizer. Think of it as a layer of protection on the skin to ensure that all of that moisture is locked in place.
[Image description: A clear bottle with a red label that says ‘REVITALIFT’ on it.] Via Amazon.My favorite serum by miles is Loreal’s Revitalift. I thought all the hype online was exaggerated, but boy does this product deliver! After using it for 2 weeks, I noticed my skin was a lot smoother and healthier looking. It also gives the skin a glow that is much-needed during colder months.
I apply a drop to my fingertips and rub them together. Then, I proceed with tapping the product into my face.
4. Moisturizer
Moisturizer is a huge step in making sure your skin doesn’t dry out during harsher seasons. Add this to your skincare routine and see the difference unfold before your eyes!
[Image description: A blue container with a white lid.] Via Amazon.I have used many different moisturizers over the years, but the one I keep going back to is Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost water gel. The formula is so lightweight yet efficient, and gets the job done without making you look like an oily mess. I like to apply a small amount into my hands and then gently dab it onto my face and neck – don’t forget the neck!
5. Oils
If you have oily skin, you might think putting oil on your face is a recipe for disaster. On the contrary, applying oils to your face will prevent your skin from over-producing its own oils. One of the best oils to use in winter weather is Rosehip oil.
[Image description: A brown bottle with a red label that reads ‘Certified Organic Rosehip Oil’.] Via Ulta.My personal favourite is the Rosehip Oil from Trilogy. There is a reason this oil is a must have for the Duchess of Cambridge – it not only provides the moisture your skin needs, but tackles issues like acne and scarring. It’s also a proven anti-aging remedy for keeping your skin silky smooth and youthful!
6. Sunscreen
I will admit I used to skip this step in its entirety. Having read so many pieces on the importance of adding SPF to your skincare routine, I decided to incorporate it and it has made all the difference!
[Image description: A white container with red and black writing on it.] Via Amazon.I love the SPF by eltaMD because it is incredibly lightweight and doesn’t have that odd smell many SPFs carry. It also does wonders for sensitive skin that cannot handle strong scents, like mine. This SPF adds the sun-protection your skin needs while also delivering moisture.
When you hear the phrase ‘fashion capital’, you might immediately think of Milan, London, Paris, or New York. After all, some of the most iconic fashion designers of recent times – Coco Chanel, Tommy Hilfiger, Alexander McQueen, and Gianni Versace, to name a few – have emerged from or are strongly affiliated with these cities.
But there are two cities that are strikingly fashion forward, yet rarely recognized for being so: Tehran and Istanbul. Seemingly different, yet similar, these two cities have one pursuit in common: the breaking of stereotypes through self-expression.
[Image description: A woman wears a red headscarf and stares into the camera.] Via Milad Shams on Unsplash.When I traveled to Tehran for the first time, my trip gave me a brand new perspective on what the words ‘fashion statement’ really meant. In Iran, what you wear is more than just the brand name. Your style is a gateway of self-expression and individuality, an attitude that allowed me to embrace my truest self through my wardrobe.
Islamic dress code has in many ways inspired Iranians to create newer, more intricate ideas that fit into this framework for women and men alike. Iranians have mastered the idea of turning a simple look into a unique, chic style tailored to one’s individual personality. Many shop owners travel abroad to different countries, finding the newest, most fashion-forward trends to bring back home. In some cases, sellers open boutiques, called mezon or maison, in their own homes, where they sell only the latest trends. Here, you will find styles that are not yet on the market in many countries, but have been introduced only in cities like Paris or Milan.
Iran has its own set of designers and taste-makers that are redefining street style and Islamic or modest fashion. For modest, yet fashion-forward styles, designers like Naghmeh Kiumarsi are setting the standards. Breaking free of the traditional black or blue chador, Naghmeh incorporates rich colors, like deep maroons and emerald greens, to pull off a sophisticated look.
Another designer, Shadi Parand, ensures that her customers have a one-of-a-kind outfit, as she never makes the same design twice. Shadi incorporates traditional Iranian prints and integrates them into more modern styles. She also designs looks that are to be worn both indoors and outdoors.
Recently, Tehran has revamped the tried-and-true trend of pleated skirts paired with traditional loose coats by adding patterned head scarves with just the right pop of color that are tied or arranged in a number of different styles. It should be noted that these styles are complementary for both Muslims and non-Muslims, such as myself, and allow us to access the fashion world and the latest trends on our own terms.
[Image description: Two women in pink and blue coats and sparkling heels walk along a street in Istanbul.] Via negativespace.Istanbul is equally unique, but for a different reason. Istanbul is on the cusp of the Middle East and Europe. Because of this, it has become noted for its unique take on fashion that is influenced by both East and West.
In 2018, one of the more prominent fashion shows, MAGIC, held its annual show in Las Vegas, where Istanbul was named as a fashion capital for the first time. There, prominent Turkish designers showcased their newest designs for the American public. Designers from the most notable fashion capitals, like Milan, London, and Paris, have implemented Turkish designs and ideas into their own collections.
Designers like Zeynep Guntas moved to Milan to pursue her fashion line. Zeynep hand-paints all of her clothing, which has grown in popularity in Milan, especially as streetwear. Turkish designer Bora Aksu has grown rapidly popular in London, where he incorporates designs tailored to a more European style. Another Turkish designer, ERDEM, is based in Canada. He creates chic evening wear that is elegant and unique with intricate patterns.
[Image description: A girl in a red sweater and black headscarf is seated on a bench with her back to the camera.] Via Erfan Amiri on Unsplash.As of late, Istanbul has shifted from mostly purely European styles to integrating more modest looks that incorporate Islamic values and Turkish culture. One notable modest fashion line is Modanisa, which aims to produce more modest interpretations of the latest fashion trends.
These designs not only have an ‘East meets West’ element, but also recapture a global discourse that has historically been dominated by the Western world. In a day and age when there are many misconceptions about the Middle East and Islam, designers in both Tehran and Istanbul have been working to break free of stereotypes. They also give new meaning to what it means to be fashionable or on-trend.
Not only are both cities fashion forward, the designs they produce appeal to a large, previously uncatered-to audience. This has allowed them to practice self-expression without compromising their values or preferences. This open-mindedness, creativity and innovation make both cities worthy of being the future fashion capitals of the world.
[Image description: A girl wearing black-and-orange Halloween makeup looks away from the camera.] Via Warley Venancio on Pexels.
It’s the spookiest time of year again! Halloween is just around the corner, pumpkins are having their yearly moment and children’s blood sugar levels are spiking. Halloween and I have always had a love/hate relationship – every year, I plan the perfect costume, my busy schedule results in me frantically doing last minute shopping, and in the end I’m left wondering whether it was all worth it. I know I can’t be the only one, either. Let’s face it, a lot of us are really busy and while we want to partake in Halloween festivities, life and work usually get in the way. There is, however, a solution to all of our problems: Halloween makeup.
[Image description: A girl wearing sugar skull makeup and a black hat looks directly in to the camera.] Via Unsplash.As people are packing stores looking for the perfect costume, you can opt for an easier, more affordable way to achieve a Halloween look. Sure, costumes are great, but sometimes all you need is the right makeup look to be just as spooky or cool.
Luckily, with the help of some of YouTube’s most trusted makeup artists, you can get spooky in a snap. Below is a list of 10 Halloween makeup tutorials that will help you pull a last minute look together in no time.
Look 1: The Sugar Skull
This look has been my go-to for a while now, and I’ve always received loads of compliments on it. Word to the wise: you may want to trial this the night before, just in case. It’s a lot easier than it seems though, trust me!
Look 2: The Cat
Another Halloween makeup look that I’ve done before, this one’s not only adorable, but is also incredibly easy. You’ll be surprised by how many people think this look took you longer than it actually did.
Look 3: The Comic Book
This comic book look is as fun to look at as it is to create. If you want to kick things up a notch, add a colorful wig to the mix and bust out your inner Archie character in this creative Halloween look.
Look 4: The Witch
The Wicked Witch of the West look is a go-to for a reason. This Halloween classic never gets old, and it’s a relatively simple one to pull off. All you need handy is some green body paint, or even just some green eye-shadow. For those of you that want to stray away from the green witch look, there are other equally wicked alternatives that you can find here.
Look 5: The Clown
Although the finished look is absolutely terrifying, putting it together is surprisingly easy. To top it off, majority of the makeup products used in this tutorial can be easily substituted with products you already own. This Halloween makeup look will have you looking equally spooky and cool.
Tip: The white contacts worn in the video are optional, and the look works just as well without them!
Look 6: The Unicorn
I haven’t tried this one yet, but my goodness, isn’t it pretty? My inner child is leaping for joy just looking at it. While it seems more complicated than it actually is, this tutorial will have you looking like a mermaid-unicorn hybrid in under twenty minutes.
Tip: If you want to achieve this Halloween makeup look, but don’t want to over-spend, consider using dupes – anything by NYX is a great option!
Look 7: The Mermaid
One of my favorite things about this tutorial, aside from the fact it’s a mermaid, is that it uses affordable makeup. Majority of these products can be found at your local drugstore! Also, who doesn’t want to be a mermaid? And remember, you can customize the mermaid look any way that you want.
Tip: I do advise what she suggests – using the fishnet stockings – as they will bring the look together a lot more easily.
Look 8: The Deer
I actually tried this look last year and fell in love with it. It’s easy to do, the finished look is super cute, and I promise you’ll get lots of compliments! Also, it’s more skin friendly for those with sensitive skin.
Look 9: The Scarecrow
This is such an easy look to accomplish. You can legitimately swap any and all of the products she uses for dupes that are more affordable. And once you’re done, you’ll be left looking like the most adorable scarecrow in the world.
Tip: The actual tutorial starts at 1:10!
Look 10: The Zipper
I haven’t tried this one yet, but I’m dying to. It’s a relatively simple Halloween makeup look that requires little effort, yet looks amazing. You can also swap the colors she uses and create your own unique version. If the rainbow look isn’t your thing, fret not! There are loads of other alternatives for this look!
Tip: Liquid latex is not for all skin types. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to skip this look or find a product that is more sensitive skin-friendly.
Bonus: Scar from The Lion King
For my Disney lovers! Find your inner evil lion and give this Halloween makeup look a try. Then do some vocal exercises and a quick run through of ‘Be Prepared’ and you’re ready to go!
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