Even though we’re on summer vacation, we’ve begun working on our next issue. If you’re interested in joining Hoot, send us an email at info@hootmag.org. We have a lot of positions open, and we’re willing to train! Also, keep an eye out for our new website!

Noel Duan
Editor in Chief

Today, we are proud to present the fruit of our efforts, starring the favorite self-described “crazy” lady of “Real Housewives of New York City,” Kelly Killoren Bensimon (GS ‘98). Why? Well, because we, members of the Columbia community, are nothing alike — and we hope to embrace our differences in the magazine, whether we dress by strict orthodox rules or we play up the drama for television.

Once again, thank you so much to everyone who believed in us and took a chance on us. We’ve come a long way since our initial 4-person meetings in Ferris Booth Lounge, and we’re planning on getting better and bigger with time. We want to reach out to the fashion-driven community on campus, and provide a medium for discussion and information.

Feel free to email us at info@hootmag.org with any questions, suggestions, or concerns — or even if you just want to join our team. We have a lot planned for this summer, and we’d love for you to see what we’re about!

Print issue is coming out soon. Stay tuned for the launch of our new website, too!

Love,

Hoot staff

That means this:

Jina Lim (CC’13)

Yes, the beach! I have officially started my summer concert search in the LA area, as well as the perfect long dress search. (I should get started on studying for finals, too– hopefully soon.) But the most exciting part about summer is FINALLY being able to take time in the morning to let my creative energy out with hair and makeup. No more haggard faces and bed hair!

Here are some of my summer beauty inspirations for this summer from Spring 2010 RTW shows! All are very easy, cute and worth trying for any girl who likes to have fun with her makeup.

The Everyday Natural, Healthy Look

Alexander Wang (left): Everyone wants the perfect skin– tan but glowing. Skip the drawn-in eyebrows and opt for the gold shimmer eyeshadow and light lip gloss to keep it natural. The delicate-looking side braids actually require very low maintenance and are enduring, staying in place even in the strong waves.

Chloe (right): Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean that you have to change your pale skin. Remember, a hint of bronzer and blush in the right places can do the trick. Seeing healthy, pale skin in the summer is refreshing, especially because the complexion brings out the colors used on the face.

The Universal Classic Allure: Red Lipstick

Christian Dior (left): If you haven’t found the perfect lipstick yet, I recommend Chanel Rouge Coco. I enjoy mine in Madmoiselle very much. The new lipstick line is easy to apply, and is available in many timeless colors that will give you the ‘oomph’.

Prada (right): This proves that bright red lipstick can be all you  need. Remember, the paler the skin, the bigger the pop!

all photos from style.com

Chanel: Temporary skin art from Chanel, anyone? If anyone decides to spend $75 on it, please let us know so we can cover it! I’ll be having fun with my street henna tattoos!

PS- Can’t wait to see you all tomorrow at the Green Clothing Swap and the Panel Discussion!

Jina Lim

Co-Editor-in-Chief

Style.com

We weren’t the only ones who loved the collection – it’s made quite an impression on the blogosphere. The Cherry Blossom Girl and Joelle van Dyne of The Owls Are Not What They Seem are two of the lucky few to get their hands on a pair of the coveted shoes from the collection. Even teens are getting into it – Tavi of Style Rookie recently got her hands on one of the naked lady printed collars.

the cherry blossom girl

If you’re not ready to drop the cash to get the real deal, the same look can be achieved on a student-friendly budget. Look for whimsical prints – we especially love bird prints – and be fearless in mixing them together. Just be sure that the overall tone and color of the prints doesn’t clash! Here’s some more inspiration:

cocorosa

See how to DIY these tights here!

the glamourai

Good luck! We can’t wait to see this look on campus.

Helen Chen
Fashion Market Editor

Don’t get me, wrong, sweatpants are quite comfortable and even experienced a fashion resurgence in the fall. But many fashionistas look to avoid those fleecy pants, adding chic while still staying comfortable . There are a few options available to you, among them the legging, the jegging, and the summer dress.

Shopbop

Leggings

Yes, leggings. They’re an old standby by now, but a good one. Just remember to wear them as what they are: leggings. Unlike what Whitney Port might tell you, they’re not pants. Pair them with a thigh-skimming tunic or tee and boots for a comfortable outfit. Add a scarf or some bangles to up the chic factor, and throw on a blazer to combat the library chills.

Shopbop

Jeggings

This option is particularly ridiculed, though store sales of the item would disagree. The problem with certain jeggings (jeans + leggings= jeggings; it’s basic math) is that they’re entirely too tight, hugging the leg like leggings but in an unforgiving textured fabric. When choosing a jegging, it’s important to find ones that fit well, not skin tight. With a nicely-fitting pair, you can wear them like your standby denims with all the comfort of a legging.

Shopbop

Summer Dress

I understand- wearing a pretty cotton summer dress to the library to study seems counterintuitive. However, it sets up a nice deal for your studying on a warm spring day- when you’re done, you’re perfectly dressed to beat it out of Butler onto the lawn for a bit of chatting and sunbathing. Not to mention that these summer tank dresses are extremely comfortable- look for one with a bit of jersey for a weighter fabric with some swing and stretch.

And for those of you skeptics who still want to look as though you live in Butler- and I know, some of you do- remember that dressing well can lead to a better self-esteem, allowing you to study better. It may sound silly, but I have a few friends who swear by it. Happy studying!

Anna Cooperberg
Accessories Director

Grease was right – summer nights are definitely special. With green flags on the lawns, water gurgling in the fountains, and mobs of tour groups invading campus, it sure seems like summer is in the air. I am one of those people who hate being encased in clothing – my skin needs to breathe! Thus I look forward every year to no longer having to wear pants and socks and have been eagerly anticipating the moment when I can finally stow away my jeans, kick off those closed-toe shoes, and pack away the sweaters and jackets. It’s time everyone feel predisposed to show a little skin…or a lot by the looks of those tanning in their bikinis. But while minimal coverage might be acceptable during the day under the pretext of getting some sun, we ought to show some discretion dressing for these summer nights. Warm weather means shorter skirts, bare legs, strapless tops, and exposed midriffs…but not all at once! Going out means looking one’s best but not looking like an open buffet. Here are some ideas:

Cropped tops and high waists

Cropped tops are hot this season but even if you have the perfect stomach, bearing it all won’t look classy. Wear high-waisted shorts or skirts so you are left with just a little stretch of bare enticing skin.

Shopbop.com

High-collared short dresses

A dress with a higher collar prevents too much exposure on top and draws your eyes in a straight line down your body to where the short hem will put all the linear focus on your legs.

Shopbop.com

Exposed back

Bare backs are extremely sexy and very summery. Keep it covered up front and make an impact when you turn around; everyone will be in for a pleasant surprise.

Shopbop.com

Rompers

Wanna look cute and unique? Go for a romper! There’s a great selection of them out there and even if they’re short and often low-cut or strapless, their loose and fun shape compensates for it giving a more playful look.

Shopbop.com

Just in time for Thursday night!

Sharon Wu
Design Director

Shopbop

Tie-Dye

This DIY style, which cropped up in the 1960s, has been snapped up by handbag designers. Rebecca Minkoff’s embraced the style, choosing to focus on single-color tie dye such as with the Tie-Dye Morning After Mini, displayed above. Her iconic MAM bag takes a blast to the past while still staying modern and relevant in a fresh blue and antiqued gold hardware. The funky print adds a bit of sunshine to any little summer dress- though if you want to be on the trending tightwire, try pairing it with a printed dress.

Shopbop

Tribal Beaded

Native American inspired, these styles are showing up on all sorts of footwear, from sandals to flats to little booties. These House of Harlow 1960 Saloni sandals, designed by Nicole Richie, embody the luxe boho vibe that the trend emanates. Slip on your beaded footwear with a miniskirt and oversized blazer- the juxtaposition of sharp and easy makes for a chic look.

Shopbop

Techno Graphics

These colorful, almost frenetic patterns showed up on the Spring 2010 runways over and over. Incorporate this techy trend by piling on the printed bangles, like this striped Bop Bijoux set. These fair-trade bracelets in a multitude of colors make for the perfect wrist-stackers, using stripes to add a slightly zany feel. Bangles like these can virtually be paired with anything- wear them with a tan silk dress for an especially beachy feel.

Don’t fret: just because printed accessories are making a splash this spring doesn’t mean you have to do without your trusty leather carryall. On the contrary, use prints to spice up your outfit in the form of bangles, summery boots and sandals, and handbags.

Anna Cooperberg
Accessories Director

Here are our suggestions on how to transition into spring without sacrificing on style or breaking the bank:

1. Invest in a Trench Coat. With wool coats and earmuffs no longer necessary, students are looking for fresh jacket options to tide them over until the (real) start of Spring. Worn by style icons Jackie O, Audrey Hepburn (as Holly Golightly), and even Blair Waldorf, the classic trench coat will last you for years, and looks oh-so-chic in those spring showers. Why not modernize the look by trying one in an unexpected color or print, like the pastel trench coats shown at Burberry Prorsum Spring/Summer 2010?

Style.com

2. Ditch the black tights. Dark opaques may have been your winter staple, but an inexpensive way to switch up your wardrobe is to get a few new pairs of tights. Try colored tights instead – navy and maroon are safe options, but the bravest will try mint or periwinkle blue. Sheer tights are another great option. A fun print is a way to add texture and interest to any ensemble.

AmericanApparel.com

3. Switch in oxfords in lieu of boots. Knee-high or over-the-knee boots may have carried you through the winter, but the changing seasons is a great chance (or excuse) to get a new default shoe. Lace-up oxfords in a neutral color work with a variety of looks. With Low Steps finally clear of snow, why not try a pair with a platform heel?

SeychellesFootwear.com

4. Try bright colored nails. Nail polish is a fun and inexpensive way to change up your look. Nude was a huge trend on the Spring/Summer 2010 runways, and nail polish is an unexpected way to incorporate it into your look. Pastel nails are also becoming a trend this season. Remember the Chanel Jade nail polish that everyone went crazy for? American Apparel’s Office and Essie’s Mint Candy Apple are more affordable options to get the look.

Essie.com

5. Incorporate a fun print. Embrace spring fully with florals – the more granny, the better! If florals aren’t your thing, try a less conventional print. Look to Alexander McQueen’s graphic printed dresses from Spring/Summer 2010 for inspiration. Do tie-dye shirts conjure up memories of bad summer camp projects? Think again! Proenza Schouler’s Spring/Summer 2010 collection made us all reconsider the print.

Style.com

This transition between seasons may be a difficult time for dressing, but it’s a fun chance to experiment with our wardrobes and try out those Spring/Summer trends from September. Check out Hoot’s first issue coming out in May for more ideas on how to wear Spring/Summer 2010 trends!

Do you have any transitional dressing tips not mentioned here?

Helen Chen
Fashion Market Editor

Anna Cooperberg (CC '12)

This past Friday, a few Hoot members — Style Director Michele Levbarg-Klein (CC ‘12), makeup artist Sharon Shum (CC ‘13), photographer Tina Gao (BC  ‘10), and model Danielle Dodo (BC ‘12) — hopped on over to central Park for the spring/summer trends photoshoot. We shot around Bethesda Fountain, a beautiful location in the park backed by a lake and ringed with early blooming trees.

Anna Cooperberg (CC '12)

However, the lovely spring weather we’ve been experiencing lately didn’t stay around for our afternoon shoot- though the sun was still high in the sky, it was chilly like no other! Our model, Danielle, had to look relaxed and calm in skimpy summer dresses even in the cold gusty air. But this is a common fashion dilemma- since photos are shot before the season they’ll be published in, models often have to pose in bikinis in the winter or parkas in the heat. As they say, it’s a mad mad mad mad world; but at least it’s one that’s unbearably chic.

Anna Cooperberg (CC '12)

Despite the chilliness, the shoot worked out quite well- we even garnered a few spectators from park visitors! And to top it off, for the majority of a shoot we had some good ol’ entertainment in the form of a man blowing gigantic bubbles, to the joy of various children (and adults).

Make sure to pick up a copy of our premier issue, Spring/Summer 2010, when it comes out next month; we can’t reveal all of the spring trends in the shoot, but look forward to many more girly florals, bright primary colors, and funky textures. For now, enjoy the impending spring!

Anna Cooperberg
Accessories Director

While many students were packing up their bags and shuffling back home in the rain on Friday morning, several of us at Hoot — Noel Duan (CC ‘13), Michele Levbarg-Klein (CC ‘12), Jina Lim (CC ‘13), and Sharon Shum (CC ‘13) — were shooting our Spring/Summer 2010 cover feature with Kelly Killoren Bensimon (GS ‘98), one of the stars of ‘The Real Housewives of New York City’ and the founding editor of ELLE Accessories. She, along with her publicist, Jami Kandel of B|W|R, and her personal assistant, Jessie Bandy, graciously allowed us into her beautiful downtown apartment for an intimate photoshoot.

Sharon Shum (CC ‘13)

The photographer was Jeffrey Zhang and the hair and makeup was done by Bradley Irion and Quinn Murphy, respectively.

Noel Duan (CC ‘13)

Kelly’s dogs were incredibly adorable — so adorable, in fact, that we decided to shoot one of the looks with them!

Sharon Shum (CC ‘13)

One of our favorite looks was a simple concept with a knit sweater from the Columbia University bookstore, Kelly’s own leggings, and Kelly’s own boat shoes. We all thought the sweater would be too heavy and bulky to look fashionable, but Kelly made it look good! Maybe Hoot will be rocking Columbia couture soon?

Noel Duan (CC ‘13)

Apparently, one of Kelly’s daughters has the same giant Chanel doll — retrieved from the Chanel store — as Michele, our Style Director! You can be a fashionista at any age, no?

Noel Duan (CC ‘13)

And yet, while it looks like fun and games in retrospect, we wouldn’t have been able to complete the photoshoot successfully without some old fashioned steaming and ironing. Every fashion intern knows how important it is to have wrinkle-free frocks. The camera hides nothing — even though Photoshop can work its wonders!

We finished shooting fairly early, and we had enough time to interview Kelly before lunch. She was terribly excited for the opportunity to appear on our cover — so excited, in fact, that she blogged about us on her blog! Click here to read the post.

Make sure to check the premiere issue, Spring/Summer 2010, when it comes out, to see what Kelly reveals to us in the interview! While we can’t reveal much to you right now, we hope our first issue will inspire you to look past misconceptions and preconceptions in both the Columbia University community and the world beyond.

Noel Duan
Co-Editor in Chief