#Fashion has become a popular theme on TikTok

[iceflwers]

𝓵𝓲𝓼𝓽 𝓸𝓯 𝓸𝓬𝓼, 𝓹𝓪𝓻𝓽 𝓽𝔀𝓸 !

˙✧˖° — name: neveah santos.

˙✧˖° — pronouns: she/her.

˙✧˖° — occupation: social media admin of the boston bruins, model.

˙✧˖° — faceclaim: barbie ferreira.

˙✧˖° — love interest: david pastrnak.

˙✧˖° — theme song: “own it” by bailey bryan.

˙✧˖° — summary: the various social media accounts of the boston bruins, from their instagram to their hilarious tiktok account, are loved by both fans of the team and hockey fans in general, and all of its fans have neveah to thank. a part-time model for several plus-size brands with a relatable sense of humor, she has worked her way into the hearts of the entire bruins team and much of its staff, becoming a presence in the arena that everyone, including the bruins’ fans, looks forward to having around. she just never quite expected those positive connections to lead to a love story with a certain czech player whose fashion sense is almost as good as hers.

˙✧˖° — name: mariah dearing.

˙✧˖° — pronouns: she/her.

˙✧˖° — occupation: sports psychologist.

˙✧˖° — faceclaim: brianne howey.

˙✧˖° — love interest: adam larsson.

˙✧˖° — theme song: “flares” by the script.

˙✧˖° — summary: in the six years since she became a licensed sports psychologist, mariah has become known as one of the best in the field of professional sports. her air of elegance and professionalism, contrasted with her surprisingly goofy and relatable personality, has always allowed her to really connect with her patients, giving them genuine help that has various teams across the nhl clamouring to hire her. and when she’s hired as the new psychologist for the seattle kraken, mariah is excited to get to work - until she starts developing feelings for the mild-mannered alternate captain who’s one of the only players she doesn’t have to work with.

˙✧˖° — name: jolene “jolie” armstrong.

˙✧˖° — pronouns: she/they.

˙✧˖° — occupation: mystery author.

˙✧˖° — faceclaim: odessa a’zion.

˙✧˖° — love interest: leon draisaitl.

˙✧˖° — theme song: “hand in my pocket” by alanis morissette.

˙✧˖° — summary: at only the young age of twenty-six, jolie is one of north America’s most popular mystery authors, with four novels that have all topped multiple bestsellers lists and a witty, sharp writing style filled with poignant dialogue and unexpected dark humor that has her readers clamouring for every scrap of their writing they can get. but in her newest work in progress, a murder mystery with the players of a professional hockey team at the center, jolie is struggling, so they reach out to her hometown nhl team, the edmonton oilers, asking if they can spend a few weeks observing the team’s practices and games as research for the novel. never having been much of a hockey fan, jolie doesn’t expect to have much interest in the goings-on of the team beyond her research… but a certain grumpy german player who seems to resent jolie’s very presence may serve to make this venture that much more interesting.

˙✧˖° — name: fatima bakshi.

˙✧˖° — pronouns: she/her.

˙✧˖° — occupation: college media relations manager, social media intern for the colorado avalanche.

˙✧˖° — faceclaim: ambika mod.

˙✧˖° — love interest: cale makar.

˙✧˖° — theme song: “vienna” by billy joel.

˙✧˖° — summary: a recent transplant from england studying media relations at colorado state university, fatima was a determined and dedicated student who had been entirely focused on her studies for as long as she could remember, often to the chagrin of her parents, who wanted their daughter to enjoy her youth. it was at her parents’ urging that fatima had even taken the co-op position as a social media intern with colorado’s nhl team in the first place; they had known their child enough to know that the extra credit given by the program would persuade her, and they had figured that something as fun and light-hearted as social media might be enough to relax her a bit. however, fatima has no intentions of having too much fun going in, only focused on checking all the boxes required for extra credit and running back to colorado state’s libraries as soon as she’s finished - but the fun she begins to have with the team, along with the company of a certain blond canadian, don’t take too long to start to change her mind.

˙✧˖° — name: penelope “penny” kristiansen.

˙✧˖° — pronouns: she/her.

˙✧˖° — occupation: aspiring fashion designer.

˙✧˖° — faceclaim: josefine frida pettersen.

˙✧˖° — love interest: juraj slafkovsky.

˙✧˖° — theme song: “dog days are over” by florence + the machine.

˙✧˖° — summary: penny has never been a fan of hockey. she’s never been a fan of any sports, really, having been a child who typically spent her nights with her head in books or fashion magazines rather than watching matches with her parents. but having moved to quebec to try and gain traction for her burgeoning fashion design career, penny is regularly surrounded by obsessive fans of the montreal canadiens, including her own friends. dragged to a habs game one day after her roommate wins vip passes, penny doesn’t expect to enjoy the experience at all, but she’s surprised to find that the game of hockey might be more interesting than she used to think… and especially interesting is the handsome right winger with one of the brightest smiles she’s ever seen.

tagging @lovings4turn, @hiya-itsamber, @theopenlocker, & @lupingf !

─┈ ♡ copyright © 2024: you do not have permission to copy, translate, or repost my works, nor to use my oc ideas or plots.

#౨ৎ ─┈ nav things ! #౨ৎ ─┈ gen oc stuff ! #‧₊˚✩ ─┈ neveah ! #‧₊˚✩ ─┈ mariah ! #‧₊˚✩ ─┈ jolie ! #‧₊˚✩ ─┈ fatima ! #‧₊˚✩ ─┈ penny ! #౨ৎ ─┈ masterlists ! #oc masterlist #rpf ocs #nhl ocs #nhl x oc

[sweetlikehoneystingslikeabee]

Hi I literally goshed over how cute the dog ask was! So I came up with an idea for part 2 how would the riddlers react to ether there hench men or another members of the rouges gallery making there dog an Instagram account and said dog becoming Instagram famous with over 1,000 followers ps I luv your writing

"Riddler's with Dogs Pt 2" Riddler Party Ask

I'm glad! This is definitely in my Arena so I'm happy to give more! After this one I have a cat ask for riddlers too, so look forward to that. And thank you for the praise <3 Part one is here!

TW: None

Gotham

It was Victor. Victor would have done it for Penguin's dog Edward but then his boss would have gotten all pissy and it wasn't worth it. What's Edward (the human) going to do when he takes pictures of Oswald (the dog) for Insta? Riddle him to death? Try to outshoot the shooter? Please.

Edward and Oswald (the human) hang out often enough for Victor to sneak video and pictures of the little guy. He documents care videos of things Edward does for "records" when Oswald (the dog) has to be taken care of by others. Really, he's posting them on Instagram.

Once Edward finds out, he's frustrated and demands for Victor to take it all down since it's not even his dog! That is, until Victor is showing off the numbers Oswald (the dog) is doing. One of his most popular photos is a candid pic of the dog in Oswald (the human's) lap snoring when Edward was away one weekend.

....He can't deny it makes him a little happy to see the positive comments and likes on all these small, innocuous moments that otherwise would have been taken for granted. Victor can keep it up. For now. But there's definitely going to be high end glamor shots added via Edward himself.

60s

one of the younglings had to introduce him to the concept. Always on her tiny phone snapping photos of everything including Pascal. Then one day she's trying to explain what Instagram is. So it's like a digital photobook. That sounds adorable, but really, is it relevant to anything?

She then points to the number of followers and says that's the amount of people who want updates about Pascal and his antics. Edward brightens at the thought. Wait, there are comments? Oh, would you look at that, they love him!

Edward is like that happy, dorky uncle who now wants to be included on the photo taking. What's the perfect cinematic shot? The Instagram game turns to short videos, which then turns to tiktok shorts once he's shown how to do that... Pascal ends up getting a fancy riddler suit jacket of his own with the proceeds.

Imagine you're a hostage in 1960s Gotham. The Riddler has overtaken the event with his goons. There is a corgi in a question mark themed suit. One of the goons is filming the corgi shaking his little hips as he walks. Riddler poses a question for the audience at home. This is going to take hours if Batman doesn't arrive quickly.

BTAS

Query and Echo did it. They aren't a constant presence like they were at one time, but they still appreciate the occasional team up with their favorite man in green. And they fall in love with little Curie.

They tease him for trying to retire and "settle down" with his dog... As they take pictures and video with filters of her in her little fashion coat. Echo jokingly makes the Instagram at first as they're all a little tipsy on wine. Then both of them post pictures and videos of her with Edward in the background.

Then... Oh, shit. This got bigger than they ever planned. Sure, cute animals are popular but- Edward isn't mad when he finds out. In fact, he's amused and downright smug. Of course she's popular, look at her!

He ends up making a small video game with her as the star. Hey, don't blame him for making profit off of a popularity hype. It's a good game, brings in honest money and puts his name back on the market. Win-win in his opinion.

Zero Year

Despite being notorious for not playing well with others, he has to have some goons later on to help with the heavy lifting. One of them ended up being good with Minerva so Edward thought, what the hell, they could clean up after her when he's busy. What he didn't realize is the guy ended up taking photos and posted a few of them online. That curly tail is to die for!

Edward caught the man on his phone looking at photos of Minerva and found the account with less than 100 followers. Photos that were fine but not great. So he took over the account immediately.

He immediately decided to up Minerva's aesthetic game. High quality photos, photo shoots, cosplay- Yes, cosplay. The amount of followers bumps up past 1,000 within a couple weeks. It doesn't help he messed with the website algorithm. Just a little. Everyone WILL appreciate his dorky beautiful dog.

Arkham

The one time he decided to actually hire people instead of just robots to do his bidding, and they do this. First, one of them decided to show off his doggie grooming background and freshened him up. Unnecessary! Asimov was fine! Then he's getting messages from Harley of all people telling him his dog is online and famous.

He corners his henchpeople who shrug saying it was a fluke. Passing the time when they wait around for orders! People love the one-eyed little creature. And they love seeing Edward show rare soft moments towards him.

People call his dog ugly-cute and he's offended on behalf of Asimov. Asimov is perfectly fine the way he is. He's not ugly! Someone has to explain that's a good thing and he scoffs them off.

At some point he gets tired of having henchmen around in his space and boots them to the streets. Then he hacks into the account and changes the password and authentication so the account can stay up. If he remembers he'll throw videos up, usually of Asimov doing tricks showing how smart he is.

Telltale

Funny enough it's his buddy Catwoman who does it. Selina KNOWS an Instagram worthy pet when she sees it. And this puppy is CUTE. Plus she's probably one of the few people he'd allow in his space besides Bane and actually trust. Bane is also in several pictures with Columbo. He knows the show, it was one of the few things that would ever play on the one shitty, shitty TV in the prison he grew up in.

She's delighted to tell him once the account gets popular. He scoffs and doesn't believe it until she shows him the numbers.

He supposes people have good taste about the pain in his ass. Then the memes start where they compare the riddler's dog to the TV show detective he's named after. He says how ridiculous they are and how people should use their time better, but Selina catches him giving a sensible chuckle at them often.

2022

Let's be real, he started the Instagram account. He figured his followers could go see pictures of her when he's not streaming and she's in the background. What he didn't expect was a flurry of other followers that have no idea who is is, but want to see more of wiggly Ava. It's enough to make him anxious.

The pictures aren't the best or the quality of videos but she's just so delightful and when he opens up about her story, it garners even more views. There's something so genuine about the presentation.

He tries to get some overlap into his Riddler persona but it doesn't work out. Batman follows the Ava account. Just to make sure there aren't any secret messages there. That's it. Absolutely not because the dog is adorable.

#gotham riddler #btas riddler #60s riddler #arkham riddler #telltale riddler #zero year riddler #2022 riddler #foxwriting

[yumi007]

This July, no one can escape the "Barbie Pink" frenzy!

Even before the movie "Barbie" hits the screens, the fashion industry has already gone crazy for it. The two lead actors, Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, embarked on a promotional tour in June, and fashion inspired by "Barbie" has been widely discussed since then. Stylist Andrew Mukamal took pink as the main theme and drew inspiration from Barbie dolls' historical wardrobes to create outfits for the stars.

Barbie has become one of the most influential fashionable IPs in modern times, naturally leading to the fashion industry's frenzy for the movie "Barbie." Brands such as Emilio Pucci, Schiaparelli, and Vivienne Westwood have provided custom clothing for Margot Robbie, while Moschino and Versace have opened their archives for the stylist team to select vintage styles reminiscent of classic Barbie doll outfits.

Chanel, where Margot Robbie has been announced as a brand ambassador, has taken it a step further by not only showcasing its own designs on the red carpet but also incorporating them into the Barbie wardrobe in the movie. Even in relatively relaxed settings like the airport, the brand can find opportunities for exposure, as long as the clothing's main tone is pink. As the release date of "Barbie" approaches, the fashion trend is not limited to brands alone. The dressing style known as "Barbiecore" has gained popularity on social media platforms overseas, with the hashtag receiving over 500 million views on TikTok. As depicted in the movie, this style primarily focuses on exaggerated and dreamy outfits with pink hues.

In an analysis article, Bloomberg points out that the Barbiecore style has replaced the dominance of the "old money" style and aligns with the resurgence of vintage trends in recent years. However, if we broaden our perspective, Barbie pink has been popular for quite a long time, not just because the movie is about to be released.

The most prominent case is Valentino's "Barbie Pink," which became a sensation in 2022, with designer Pierpaolo Piccioli giving it the name "Pink PP." The intention was to push for an image transformation, but the vivid color left a strong impression amid controversy. On the fashion index engine Lyst, searches related to pink fashion have increased by 80%.

Although this trend has persisted for a long time, leaving a lasting impression when everyone jumps on the bandwagon is not an easy task. It is evident that many brands have simply swapped their packaging for pink. Consequently, many Barbie collaboration series launched by beauty brands received a lukewarm response. Barbie dolls themselves are famous for their rich clothing choices and diverse "dollhouse" settings, with little emphasis on specific makeup looks, and at times, criticized for promoting stereotypical appearances like blonde hair and blue eyes.

On TikTok, a platform full of creativity and fashion, Orolay brand seized the opportunity and launched a series of fantasy-colored down jackets, offering users a visual feast. These dreamy-colored down jackets are full of fairytale-like imagination, each emitting a unique magical ambiance. From soft pinks and purples to vibrant blues and greens, each color represents a different dreamy world, immersing people in a magical wonderland.

In addition to the dreamy-colored down jackets, Orolay cleverly paired them with whimsical and diverse accessories, making the overall styling more rich and varied. For instance, cute pink hats, dreamy pink skirts, and other accessories added a playful touch to the down jackets' styling, enhancing the overall sense of fashion and individual charm. These accessories not only added a sense of fun but also elevated the overall fashion appeal and personal charisma.

Through this series of fantasy-colored down jackets and creatively matched whimsical accessories, the brand demonstrates its unique understanding of fashion and keen grasp of fashion trends, offering users more exciting fashion choices. This innovative approach further solidifies Orolay's position in the fashion industry, allowing the brand to have a wider influence among young users.

Please note that this translation is provided for informational purposes and may not be a direct word-for-word translation but rather a contextual interpretation to convey the meaning of the original text in English.

#barbie #barbie 2023 #barbie movie

[legendarybeautyprotibalarina]

Sekai characters' Roblox styles and gameplay habits!

Over the past few way too long, I've become. Somewhat of a Roblox goblin, especially when it comes to avatar making. So I'd like to share with you the kind of avatars each Sekai character would have (two examples for everyone except Tsukasa and Mafuyu, who only have one) and the kind of games they'd probably play.

Long post, so click under the cut!

LEO/NEED

ICHIKA

Big fan of 2.0 and those 3D anime girl heads with the fuckhuge eyes. Dresses all her avatars in school-themed outfits. Plays a variety of games, but mostly "mundane" roleplay games (such as Bloxburg and Brookhaven).

SAKI

LOVECORE LOVECORE LOVECORE. Does the 1.0 legs on otherwise 3.0 body thing. Almost exclusively plays RoBeats and those Friday Night Funkin' clone games. (i am pushing the pan saki agenda.)

HONAMI

Very red. Will wear just about anything as long as it has a red and white colour scheme. Doesn't actively play Roblox, only bought the 800 Robux pack because Ichika told her it was "embarrassing" when they played games together and she was a bacon.

SHIHO

Barb model. Basically only plays Da Hood and fashion runway games. Does not play games with the rest of her unit (when asked why, gets defensive and says she just doesn't wanna play Roblox). Gets genuinely upset whenever she plays a game for the first time and it doesn't let her use R6. Commissions art of her avatar and specifically requests the artist to make them buff.

MORE MORE JUMP

MINORI

Pastel preppy. Mostly plays Bloxburg, Adopt Me, MM2 and preppy hangout games. Makes TikToks where she shows off trades she makes.

HARUKA

Black clothes, short brown hair and penguin hats. Plays the same games that were on the front page 5 years ago and gets sad when any of them lose popularity or get deleted.

AIRI

All of her outfits are Halloween-themed (mostly witches, though she does have a good deal of vampire ones). To her, it's the single most important day on the calendar. Extremely stereotypical Royale High player.

SHIZUKU

Black and red edgelord, though much more in the "demon queen who wants to take over the world" way than the "haha I wear a shirt with a cropped anime ahegao girl and some Japanese text that doesn't actually mean anything" way. Also an avid Royale High player, but slightly less stereotypical than Airi.

VIVID BAD SQUAD

KOHANE

Animal-themed softie. (Honestly these fits are super cute.) Plays vibe games and "soft" roleplay games, as well as whatever An's playing (so mostly Da Hood).

AN

One of THOSE annoying rich kid Rogangsters/CnPs. Also one of those toxic assholes you meet in Da Hood/club and vibe games. Unironically goes on digital dates with Kohane in games.

AKITO

Goth weeb. Makes "uwu me and my partner are so cute in roblox" TikToks with Toya. Mostly plays Da Hood, Royale High and anime fighting/roleplay games. Probably does Genshin cosplays as well let's be real.

TOYA

Another one of those types who have no idea how to make R6 work and think R15 is the devil, except he's a softie who looks like he came out of an R63 animation instead of a DH-obsessed barb like Shiho. Plays dance games that allow you to use R6, as well as whatever Akito's playing (but only if he wants to make a video with him, he stays away from games that force R15 at all costs unless Akito needs him there for whatever reason).

WONDERLANDS X SHOWTIME

TSUKASA

Only has one outfit because he doesn't go into games where people care and only even bought it in the first place because he got mad at people at school for bullying him for being a bacon. A veritable god at simulators.

EMU

A rare non-toxic rich kid. Her outfits are all super pink and covered in bunnies. Has TONS of lim faces (SSHF and the butterfly ones are just her favourites). Plays EVERYTHING that gets on the front page (and enjoys most of it too).

NENE

An edgy weeb similar to Akito, but one I'd personally argue is a lot cooler than him. Almost exclusively plays anime fighting games, though she'll also join Tsukasa regularly. (Fun fact: I liked the avatar on the left with the cat shirt so much I bought it and used it for a few days.)

RUI

One of those dudes who only wears girl outfits. Will wear literally anything as long as it's feminine, has a consistent colour scheme and looks good with the makeup faces and mage anims. Plays every game that gets stereotyped as an "ODer game" in the hopes that someone will think he's a hot girl IRL and ask for his social media.

NIGHTCORD AT 25:00

KANADE

No particular style. Only buys clothes she sees other people wearing in games and only does vague searches for keywords or colours for accessories (such as "eye" or "black"). All her avatars (even besides these ones) wear hoodies and have extra eyes somewhere on them. Plays a lot of PVP and building games.

MAFUYU

Only has one avatar, because she doesn't care enough to make more. Only plays front-page games. Extremely basic.

ENA

Yet ANOTHER R6 obsessor who doesn't know how to style it, except this time she's a self-proclaimed "emo" who doesn't even know it was a music scene first and the fashion came later. Plays drawing games, 2D fandom roleplay games and Booth Plaza/Rate My Avatar.

MIZUKI

UwU kawaii pastel pink and rainbow softie, who also probably uses this to hide the fact they're actually super toxic. Plays dress-up and hangout games.

#haha yes #hatsune miku colorful stage #project sekai #roblox #ichika hoshino #saki tenma #honami mochizuki #shiho hinomori #minori hanasato #haruka kiritani #airi momoi #shizuku hinomori #kohane asuzawa #an shiraishi #akito shinonome #toya aoyagi #tsukasa tenma #emu otori #nene kusanagi #rui kamishiro #kanade yoisaki #mafuyu asahina #ena shinonome #mizuki akiyama #thats a lot of tags im sorry. i promis etheyre all in the post

[whanaukaretao]

Assignment 1: Q & A Considerations

Due: 11 March 2024

What do you do? What sort of things do you make? Or capture? Or select?

I am a lensed based artist with a predominantly photography and moving image practice. I am interested in evolving my practice to include mixed media.

I primarily make photographs and less frequently moving image works.  

I typically capture street photography and portraiture, often in urban settings. There is often a strong urban street culture influence in my art, as well as a strong emphasis on colour. Māori culture and related themes are also a regular feature of my art.

2. How do you make decisions during the process of your work? How and why do you select the materials, techniques, themes that you do?

I would describe my decision-making as naturally quite fluid and frequently influenced by experiences, intuitive feelings, or things I observe, read or listen to in real life or virtually. I am also strongly influenced by colour, will often research this, and generally let it guide my decisions. 

For example, my manga and anime themed Hons project is heavily influenced by my visit to Japan last year. Its purple and pink colour palette has come from reading manga and watching anime on TikTok, movies or gaming.

I make some process decisions through counsel with supervisors and others more expert than me, as well as through ideas from artist friends. I also obviously research other artists, view exhibitions and study different techniques. I’m currently doing a print class that is helping guide some of my future process and making decisions. Other times, I just trust my own judgment. 

The materials I choose have mostly been photography stock, so limited within certain parameters. I’ve had a bad experience with gloss images being exhibited under overhead lighting so tend to steer away from this now.

I’m not particularly good at studio (lighting) shoots so typically shoot outdoors.

I’m also a bit slow with photoshop so need to allow myself more time for these tasks. If I can, I’ll look for a work-around where it means I don’t need to use photoshop because I can replicate a similar effect in real life quicker.

I’ve touched on themes a bit above. Mostly, I try to make art of the moment or the future. I like to be on the pulse of what’s currently popular in pop culture or has street edge – whether that’s music, fashion, street art, anime, etc. 

I like to represent my culture in my art and create portrayals of Māori that are positive and uplifting.

3. What are you valuing in the work?

I value representing my culture and photographic subjects well. 

It’s difficult as a Māori artist as there’s a huge responsibility to get things right and do things right culturally. You open yourself up to heavy criticism if you don’t and it will undermine the integrity of your work. 

I guess because I grew up not seeing positive portrayals of Māori – or anyone that looked like me – in media, and as there’s an anti-anything Māori theme playing out at the moment, that’s led me to want to create positive representations in my art to change the narrative.

Outside of culture and my photo subjects, I value that my art continues to show I’m growing and evolving, that I’m adding new techniques and artistic features. That I’m not always doing the same thing. I haven’t arrived yet at who or what I am as an artist. That’s probably because I came to art a bit later in my life.

4. What are your sources, do you refer to existing images?

I’m still learning to do the contextual study of art. Before now, I’ve just seen something and run with it, without understanding or knowing more (or even wanting to know more) about it as an art form or practice.

The art history classes we had in our undergrad BFA study definitely exposed me to many more artists and so I’ve become a bit more well-rounded artistically.

Typically, my initial sources that get my interest are images I see online, usually on TikTok or Instagram. Or they’re things I’ve seen around the city, in books, films, at exhibitions, etc.

Now, I research more. I look at more formal art sources online that have a more professional or scholarly side to them. I look at journals, use the library, etc.

5. What are you trying to say or infer in your work?

If I honest, I’m trying to say this art is a reflection of me, I’m contemporary, I’m very of the moment.

At a deeper level, I’m often trying to tell my story, my family stories or the story of what it is to be Māori. And because my childhood experience of being Māori and having positive Māori role models in my life is different to what is often portrayed, I really want to bring this out in my work, especially positive Māori male representations.

Other times, I just want to make art that’s a bit funky. That’s cool. And has a bit of a wow factor.

6. How is the way you’re saying it, with the materials, techniques and relations of emphasis between elements, the best for the idea you want to present?

I’ve felt a bit hamstring by my artistic abilities or lack of them. I came into art school with a limited set of skills but have gradually broadened these out, but still have quite some way to go.

So what I’m saying is I haven’t been able to fully say what I’ve wanted to say because I lack the skills or technical ability to do so – but I’m trying to work on this.

Basically, what I’ve created to date has only been the best of what I’ve been able to present within my limited range of my skills – which disappoints me a bit.

With my current Hons project, borrowing from Japanese manga allows me to step into a world that has existing conventions and understandings. In other words, people know what I’m creating is probably a bit fantastical and may have deeper spiritual or cultural themes. It also allows room for the implausible and futuristic.

So I get to play around with futuristic ideas about Māori relationships with robots for example, and I feel I get much more creative license and freedom to do so.

7. What is it you’ve been trying to do to make the work relevant in relation to ideas, cultural circumstances or contemporary issues?

I feel like I’ve touched on this already. 

In my current work, I’ve researched and reached out to a Māori futurist that is exploring contemporary and future issues for Māori as AI and new technologies develop. This is helping me keep on top of developments and current thinking so that my art is well positioned. 

8. How does this work fit into a larger body of work or overarching project of ideas (if it does)?

Since I’m working in a futuristic space with a Māori cultural overlap, then I think there’s lots of scope for further exploration that could potentially expand into my masters’ year.  My project really just scrapes the surface of this developing area and has lots of different avenues it can go down.

The manga and anime elements also have lots of potential in terms of areas of expansion too. As I become more studied in the area and aware of its deeper (Japanese) cultural context and origin this will open up lots of possibilities too.

9. Are your ideas changing and if so how?

Yes, in terms of both myself as an artist and also in terms my Hons project.

As an artist I started the year thinking I’m not the same artist I was at the end of year three, more than a year ago now. I didn’t exactly know who I am now. 

I left off year three with photography that introduced stenciled spray paint art directly onto my work. Now, I’m exploring manga and print in combination with photography. So I’m different. What’s consistent is that I’m still interested in exploration and developing my abilities and techniques as an artist. I’d say this is because I came to art later in life so I’m still growing and developing.

My Hons project ideas are changing as I acquire new print and drawing skills. As I do, what’s possible opens up. As I do my research and absorb more, this is also changing my thinking. For example, today I attended a presentation by photographer Russ Flatt. Seeing his work and hearing about his making processes has got me thinking about experimenting with a few different things I’d not previously thought about, eg. capturing images as photographic negatives, photographing from the perspective of what a robot would see and how they would see it (eg. in electronic form).  Russ story boards his projects which I don’t do, so I’m considering that too.

10. Has anyone done this kind of work in the past?

Yes, as an artform. Afro-futurism for example has similarities to what I’m endeavouring to do. Obviously, there is a whole world of manga and anime that operates in a space similar to mine.

I’m aware of Māori that have explored futurism and it’s overlap with our culture. Tracey Tawhiao for example had a series of works that looked at Māori and spaceships. It’s an area that I need to research more to be fully across the extent of Māori artistic work in this area.

11.Does anyone else do it now? Who are the artists that occupy this space?

I still need to research this more. I’m not currently aware of artists that have explored a futuristic Auckland but there are bound to be some, especially as there’s an overlap with sci-fi.

I should also explore Māori manga and anime artists. I know there are Māori artists that have developed art of this nature for gaming. 

12. Who are the writers on these subjects? What specifically have they said, which then potentially motivates your own thinking for your work?

I’m currently reading some Whitechapel papers on Utopia. This is helping me to discern what particular space in this Utopia world that I’m actually working in. It’s not as straight forward as I initially thought. 

The Whitechapel papers have a wide collection of writers, I haven’t got past the introduction yet. I have been able to identify some areas that my art seems to fit within so they’re what I’m planning to read next. 

13.What histories are you contributing to within this field of practice?

I’m not sure what’s meant by ‘histories’ here. 

I feel I'm contributing to several aspects of Māori futurism.

For example, I’m not aware of any Māori art that has explored Māori futuristic marriage to robots, or the concept of whangai (Māori adoption) relationships between Māori and robots. Or colonisation of Māori (or New Zealanders) by robots, or whether Māori might use robots to colonise New Zealanders. In all these senses, I feel I could potentially be offering new insights.

[parksaversnews]

The Best Spots for Making Disneyland TikTok Videos

TikTok has become hugely popular in recent years, with people creating fun 15 to 60 second videos set to music. Disneyland is a prime location for making engaging TikTok content. Guests are allowed to film TikTok videos throughout the Disneyland parks and resorts. When deciding where to film your Disneyland TikTok videos, it's best to choose locations that are less crowded so you don't disrupt other guests or block walkways. Quietest Places to Film - Main Street Cinema - This small theater rarely has crowds, making it perfect for filming dances or challenges. The vintage cinema seats also make a fun backdrop. - Court des Anges - The secluded courtyard in New Orleans Square offers shade trees, benches, and little foot traffic - ideal for recording solo or with a friend. - Hungry Bear Restaurant Outdoor Seating - Overlooking the Rivers of America, this area is consistently quiet and peaceful, with beautiful natural views. - Grand Californian Hotel Lobby - The grand, spacious lobby filled with plush couches allows ample room for filming. You can even order refreshments. Other solid options are the Animation Courtyard at California Adventure or Redwood Creek Challenge Trail in Grizzly Peak. Most Scenic Places - Pixar Pier at California Adventure - Offers colorful, vibrant views of the Incredicoaster, Toy Story Midway Mania, and other rides set against scenic Paradise Bay and the Pacific Ocean. - Grizzly Peak at California Adventure - Provides beautiful natural backdrops of forests, rivers, and mountains surrounding Grizzly River Run and the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail. - Rivers of America at Disneyland - Scenic waterway with options like the Mark Twain Riverboat, Columbia Sailing Ship, canoes, and wooded trails along the riverbanks. - Main Street USA at Disneyland - Charming, old-fashioned small town views of the entrance promenade lined with shops and attractions. - New Orleans Square at Disneyland - Picturesque themed land evoking vintage New Orleans French Quarter architecture and Mardi Gras colors. Other scenic spots cited include Cars Land at dusk, Paradise Gardens Park at night, Sleeping Beauty Castle walkthrough, and Mickey's Toontown facade. Areas with beautiful lighting, iconography related to rides, or water views tend to be popular backdrops. Best Rides to Film On - Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance - An immersive 15+ minute experience with impressive special effects, animatronics, and set design that makes for dramatic video footage. - Radiator Springs Racers - Offers scenic views of Cars Land and an exciting, fast-paced race component ideal for action videos. - Incredicoaster - This rollercoaster provides opportunities for fun reaction videos, with fast speeds and loops. - Pixar Pal-A-Around - Allows capturing an incredible view of the entire Park. - Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission Breakout - Video can showcase the randomized ride experiences and music, particularly the intense drops. Other top options include classics like Space Mountain, Indiana Jones, and Big Thunder Mountain. Rides with strong theming, speed, or iconic Disney features tend to make the most engaging video subjects. Tips for Making Food TikTok Videos - Keep it simple - Focus on one food item at a time. Simplicity helps videos be easily consumable and go viral. - Make it fun and engaging - Incorporate humor, interesting edits, music, and movement to capture attention. Over 83% of TikTokers have created their own videos, so inspire them. - Use top-down camera angles - Show every angle of the food. This optimized mobile viewing angle provides information quickly. - Highlight food details - Use good lighting and show all toppings and side items. - Tap into trends and seasonality - Connect content to popular food crazes and seasonal events that spark interest and searches. - Collaborate with creators - Partner with influencers to expand reach and authenticity. Combine organic content with paid partnerships. - Encourage easy participation - Inspire viewers to come and get their own. - Post consistently - Regularly upload new videos to build an audience and get more views. Short form content requires constant stimulation. When filming your TikToks, be sure to avoid blocking walkways or intruding on other guests' experiences. Additionally, never try to defeat safety measures on rides just for more dramatic footage, as Disney has warned this causes unsafe conditions. With so many fun backdrops across the Disneyland Resort, it’s a prime place for making engaging TikTok content - just be sure to do it safely and courteously!  Read the full article

[simplyinkedtattoos]

Temporary tattoos in India

In a country known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions, the art of temporary tattoos has found a unique place in India. Temporary tattoos, a form of body art that allows individuals to experiment with different designs without the permanency of traditional tattoos, have gained immense popularity across the nation. This article delves into the fascinating world of temporary tattoos in India, exploring their cultural significance, evolving trends, and the emergence of innovative techniques. From ancient traditions to modern expressions, temporary tattoos have become a dynamic aspect of India's vibrant tapestry.

Cultural Roots of Temporary Tattoos in India

India, with its myriad of cultures and traditions, has a long history of body art dating back centuries. Henna, or Mehndi, is an integral part of Indian culture, often applied during festivals, weddings, and other celebratory occasions. The intricate and beautiful designs of henna have captivated people across the world, inspiring a global fascination with temporary tattoos. The art of adorning the body with temporary designs is deeply rooted in Indian traditions, making it a natural progression for modern temporary tattoo culture.

Contemporary Trends and Expressions

The landscape of temporary tattoos in India has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. What once was primarily associated with religious and cultural events has evolved into a mainstream form of self-expression. Temporary tattoos now cater to a diverse audience, from fashion enthusiasts to those seeking a unique way to commemorate special moments. Tattoo artists and designers in India have embraced this shift, offering an array of innovative and trendy designs that cater to various tastes and preferences.

The Rise of Temporary Tattoo Studios

As the demand for temporary tattoos continues to grow, specialized studios have emerged across India, offering a wide range of services to cater to the diverse needs of the clientele. These studios provide a professional setting for individuals to explore temporary tattoos, ensuring a safe and hygienic environment. Whether it's a custom design, a replication of traditional motifs, or a trendy and contemporary piece, these studios have become hubs for creativity and self-expression.

Temporary Tattoos and Festivals

Festivals play a crucial role in Indian culture, and temporary tattoos have become an integral part of the celebration. From the vibrant colors of Holi to the dazzling lights of Diwali, temporary tattoos have become a popular accessory during festive seasons. Many individuals opt for temporary tattoos that symbolize the spirit of the festival, adding a touch of flair to their festive attire. The temporary tattoo industry has capitalized on this trend, offering special festival-themed designs that resonate with the joy and vibrancy of these cultural celebrations.

Innovations in Temporary Tattoo Techniques

The world of temporary tattoos in India is not only about designs but also about the evolving techniques used to create them. While traditional henna remains a staple, modern technologies have introduced innovative methods such as airbrushing and metallic temporary tattoos. These advancements have expanded the possibilities for temporary body art, allowing individuals to experiment with a wide range of colors, styles, and effects. The fusion of traditional and contemporary techniques has given rise to a dynamic and ever-evolving temporary tattoo culture in India.

Temporary Tattoos and Social Media Influence

In the age of social media, temporary tattoos have become a prominent feature on platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok. Influencers and celebrities often showcase their unique temporary tattoo designs, inspiring their followers to explore this form of self-expression. The visual nature of temporary tattoos makes them highly shareable, contributing to their popularity among the younger demographic. This digital influence has not only propelled the trend but has also created a global community of temporary tattoo enthusiasts who exchange ideas and inspiration.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite the growing popularity of temporary tattoos in India, the industry is not without its challenges and controversies. Issues related to cultural appropriation, especially concerning traditional motifs and designs, have sparked debates within the community. Striking a balance between appreciating cultural heritage and allowing for creative expression poses a significant challenge for both tattoo artists and enthusiasts. Additionally, concerns regarding the safety of certain temporary tattoo products have prompted discussions on regulations and standards within the industry.

The Future of Temporary Tattoos in India

As temporary tattoos continue to weave themselves into the cultural fabric of India, the future holds exciting possibilities. The industry is likely to witness further innovations in design techniques, materials, and applications. Collaborations between traditional artists and modern designers may bridge the gap between heritage and contemporary expressions, fostering a more inclusive and respectful temporary tattoo culture. With a growing acceptance of temporary tattoos as a legitimate form of self-expression, the trend is poised to become an enduring aspect of India's diverse and dynamic cultural landscape.

Conclusion

Temporary tattoos in India have transcended their traditional roots to become a vibrant and evolving form of self-expression. From cultural celebrations to personal milestones, temporary tattoos have found a place in the hearts and bodies of individuals across the nation. The industry's growth, coupled with technological advancements and social media influence, signals a promising future for temporary tattoos in India. As the cultural tapestry continues to unfold, temporary tattoos will undoubtedly remain a colorful and dynamic brushstroke on the canvas of Indian self-expression.

[cailinrogersfinearts]

RANDOM CONTEXTUAL RESEARCH, VISUAL REFERENCE, AND WRITINGS?...

pink church! found this through a previous years exposure catalog from a student who had photographed it in their work 'The Dedication to Pink'. The church was created by nz artist and poet, Sam Duckor Jones. I think it really aesthetically and conceptually relates to my alter work. I love their backstory of the pink church as well as their other work as an artist. the vandalisation of the pink church with homophobic and antisemitic hate speech is extremely saddening as well as telling. It is interesting that colour and aesthetic can create such a target for hate, especially when this church was created from pure intention of love and inclusivity. But there is an assumption that it was a mocking of the church or a belittling of the church as a power. I think my work does imply this sense of mocking however there isn't actually any symbolism or real suggestion of anything offensive. I find this interesting that the colour pink and 'typically feminine or queer aesthetics' in the context of religious motifs can alone suggest this feeling of 'blasphemous' simply because we are excluded and limited by this power, the irony is right there.

Tiktoker Addison Rae's online backlash for wearing 'Father, Son, Holy Spirit' bikini. I remember when this was all over TikTok and the internet last year. I find the timeline of Addison Rae's career and change of fanbase so interesting, just over a year ago her target audience was conservative white tweens and frat boys, but through her marketing and styling she has managed to become somewhat of an icon in queer and femme media culture spaces. she had actually previous been 'exposed' as a trump supporter as well as receiving some hate for reposting an anti Black Lives Matter video. However if you google "Addison Rae cancelled" the first page of results is full of articles about this bikini. I think this scandal was the beginning of her switch in fanbase and fame. suddenly her 'all American girl' image had been shattered and she became a 'Lana del rey', 'bad girl', with a new style and personality. she started being taken seriously in the fashion world for the first time as her stylist changed, she dumped her frat boy TikTok boyfriend and started dating a neon red haired alternative musical artist. her objectively terrible song that she released years ago, which recieved bad reviews and became an online joke, now plays on her new album which features Charli XCX, an extremely popular artist in the queer community. all of a sudden her political past and flaws have been erased and she has become an icon to those who once hated her. this goes back to what I previously spitballed about aesthetics and sub genres, today you only have to appear as a political stance through clothing and music culture to be accepted as one. this is not to say that Addison is a conservative cosplaying as a queer icon feminist lol, she very well could be finally exploring who she really is, but either way it has increased her success and erased her past, all through aesthetics!! this is a lot of word vomit but I believe there is so much power in aesthetics and exploring 'low-brow' media content like this actually unlocks important dialogue and questions about societal cultures and treatments.

fake nail cross decals (lol) was just playing with using beauty products as decor motifs for my alter sculpture.

a sad and perhaps slightly irrelevant poem I wrote. just included as I feel my creative writing is a big part of my practice that isn't seen in my immediate physical work.

[mollytatlisu]

Primary Survey Analysis Pt.1

As I began to explain on my first primary survey post; I am going to research into the various characters / films ‘ / musicians that my magazine target market currently view as being in the gothic spotlight, to identify if, how and why they are going to be influential in the future of goth.

Wednesday & The Addams Family

The first appearance of Wednesday Addams on our screens was in the 1964 sitcom the Addams family, which followed the lives of a dysfunctional family, their unusual lifestyle and supernatural abilities. Although this was revamped with a new series in 1998 named “The New Addams Family”, the spin off thats really drawing peoples attention is Netflix’s 2022 show “Wednesday” which as you can imagine focuses on Wednesday, daughter of Morticia and Gomez in The Addams Family. The first and only series tells the story of Wednesdays expulsion from her “mainstream” school, forcing her parents to send her to Nevermore Academy, a school for all types of outcasts; where she uncovers the mystery of the monstrous “Hyde” . But why has this show and Wednesdays character gained so much traction? Based on my research on our societies current landscape, I think the polycrisis state we are currently in is causing young people to strive for an outlet to escape, with Wednesdays mysterious, rebellious, lone wolf portrayal acting as the perfect way for youths to express themselves in such confusing times. This is furthered by my primary research in which I asked why people think they associate, Wednesday in this case with goth. Most peoples reasoning was based around her attitude and the way she holds herself, with some mentioning the indisputable theme of black throughout her wardrobe. The combination of peoples association of Wednesday with goth and their allure towards her means traits of hers could begin to present as a trend.

Evidence that Wednesday has become an influential pop culture icon for Gen z is not only proved by my primary research, but also by statistics on applications such as TikTok and Netflix. For example, according to WGSN, the hashtag #WednesdayOutfit on TikTok has 20.8 million views, and includes thousands of videos in which people attempt to style themselves like Wednesday, using items they have available in their wardrobes. Not only this, but the show itself has broken Netflix streaming records, overtaking the fourth series of stranger things with it racking up a whooping 27 million views just 12 days after its release Campione (2023). This demonstrates how known her character is, increasing the likelihood of her long term influence; and this generations longing to mirror her.

Wednesday does exemplify gothic traits such as her taste for the colour black and her uninviting demeanour, but the scene that was most favoured by it’s audience was what she wore at the “raven dance” this amongst the rest of her outfits illustrates a more glamourous goth aesthetic, that encompasses the staple goth attributes such as chunky boots and … but is less rough around the edges.

In conclusion, based on Gen Zs fascination and glorification of Wednesday Addams fashion choices and attitude demonstrated by her popularity and the millions of videos on TikTok imitating her i believe she is going to be a key driver of my gothic trend; with her character informing a portion of gen zs interpretation of future goth. Based on the comparison of Wednesday Addams and a traditional goth, i think this will translate to dark looks that are much cleaner and almost formal, such as the elegant dress Wednesday wore to the dance which took the internet by storm. Something crucial i also noticed was the similarities between Wednesdays fashion and the mourning attire of the victorian era. Not only are the two connected by fashion but the shows typical gothic scenery such as the school is reflective of the scenery in gothic literature as well as the gloomy industrial wasteland of Britain at the time. Therefore i think that Wednesdays added glamour and the victorian periods inherent romanticism with lead to dark but hyper feminine looks, which is furthered evidenced by gen Zs gender awareness that i explored previously. More specifically, i think this will result in a fixation on dresses amongst all genders, and delicate, sheer materials such as organza and lace; with elements seen sported by Wednesday and Victorians.

Monster high, hex girls etC

Combination of nostalgia, looking back to simpler times & trying to escape current societal landscape

Twilight

Still a huge emphasis on peoples association of vampires with goth dating all the way back to the Victorian period and gothic literature

[walee-pakistan]

Does Instagram pay content creators?

No, Instagram does not have a direct program for paying content creators. However, content creators on the platform can earn money through various means such as sponsored posts, brand deals, affiliate marketing, and promoting their own products or services. Additionally, some instagram content creators may also earn money through collaborations with brands and businesses, merchandise sales, and more.

In recent years, there has been a growing trend for creators to monetize their content and social media presence, and many have been able to build careers and substantial income streams through platforms like Instagram. However, success in monetizing content on Instagram or any other platform often requires a significant amount of hard work, creativity, and consistency, as well as a large and engaged following.

How do you get a content creator on Instagram? To become a content creator on Instagram, you need to first establish a presence on the platform by setting up an account and posting regularly. Here are some steps you can follow to get started:

Choose a niche or theme for your content: Think about what you're passionate about and what you want to share with your audience. This could be anything from fashion and beauty to travel and food.

Create a visually appealing account: Choose an attractive profile picture and cover photo, and make sure your account is public so anyone can see your content.

Start posting regularly: Post high-quality photos and videos that align with your niche or theme. Consider using popular hashtags relevant to your content to reach a wider audience.

Engage with your followers: Respond to comments, like and share content from other users, and participate in conversations.

Build your following: To grow your audience, consider running promotions or contests, collaborating with other content creators, or using paid advertising to reach new followers.

Monetize your content: Once you have built a substantial following, you can start monetizing your content through sponsored posts, brand deals, affiliate marketing, and more.

Keep in mind that building a successful content creator account on Instagram takes time, effort, and persistence. Focus on creating high-quality content that resonates with your audience and keep engaging with your followers to grow your presence on the platform

What is the difference between influencer and content creator? The terms "influencer" and "content creator" are often used interchangeably, but they can have slightly different connotations.

A content creator is a person who creates and publishes content, typically on social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok. Content creators can create a variety of content, such as photos, videos, blog posts, and more, and can focus on a wide range of topics, such as fashion, beauty, travel, food, and more.

An influencer, on the other hand, is a content creator who has a significant following on social media and the ability to influence the decisions and actions of their followers. Influencers are often paid by brands to promote products or services to their followers, and their endorsement can carry weight with their audience.

In practice, the terms "influencer" and "content creator" are often used interchangeably, as many content creators are also influencers with the ability to influence their followers. However, not all content creators are influencers, and not all influencers are content creators. The main difference between the two lies in the level of influence they have over their followers.

How many followers do you need to be an Instagram content creator?

There is no set number of followers that you need to be considered a content creator on Instagram. The number of followers you have is just one factor that can influence your reach and impact on the platform, and many Instagram content creators have built successful careers with fewer followers than others.

That being said, having a large following can certainly help you reach a wider audience and open up more opportunities for monetizing your content through brand deals, sponsored posts, and more. In general, the more followers you have, the more appealing you may be to brands and businesses looking to partner with content creators.

However, it's important to note that the quality of your content and your engagement with your followers is also important, as these can help you build a strong and loyal following over time. So, instead of focusing solely on the number of followers, focus on creating high-quality content that resonates with your audience, engaging with your followers regularly, and continuously building your content.

#Youtube Content Creator #Instagram Content Creator #Tiktok Influencer Platform

[mumbaiboutique]

Trends That Will Dominate In 2023

The cycle of fashion is endless. While some people focus on the numerous possibly excessive trends that come from social media, catwalks, and the myriad influencers that transform our wardrobes, others eagerly anticipate the ideas that will shape our looks from one week to the next—or almost. In any case, it appears that in 2023 we will have to decide between simplicity and extravagance when it comes to fabrics, colors, designs, or dimensions. The basics are always there and just changing up the prints or colors is what dominates 2023. The women’s clothing store in Baltimore has the items given below that will be trending in 2023 for women’s fashion wear.

Suits

Since the start of the epidemic, we've lost track of how many times its comeback has been confirmed, but it is obvious that the suit will be a staple in 2023 wardrobes. In the most recent fashion shows, many designers once again highlighted suits, but in more laid-back styles. Next year, bigger cuts rather than the familiar fitting suits will be popular. The loose-fit jacket with mismatched pants, or even better, a plain pair of pantyhose, is still the most convincing trend. Often women in formal or semi-formal wear choose in wearing suits.

Utility attire

Although some people choose to wear suits, others choose practical, utility clothing that straddles elegance and comfort and is frequently distinguished by an abundance of pockets. This mid-range trend, which is unmistakable evidence that we won't be giving up on the casual fashions embraced during the epidemic just yet, is hard to overlook. Among the notable houses, MiuMiu and Louis Vuitton have explored this theme for the spring/summer 2023 season, with the former exploring it in a subtle approach and the latter in a more extravagant style.

Denim

Denim isn't going anywhere and will continue to be a major component of fashion in 2022. Last year, denim was particularly associated with the Y2K aesthetic, marking the return of the low-rise waist. This year, however, it will be all about the '90s, with head-to-toe designs that are cool, loose, and laid-back. The utility style will have an impact on denim, but not just because we will see long denim coats and classic jackets with oversized measurements. This was seen, among other places, on the Givenchy and Off-White runways.

Leggings

Leggings will be among the fashion must-haves of 2023, even though we are aware that not many people are anticipating their return. The good news is that they will eventually arrive in riskier variants. By 2023, leggings will no longer be a substitute for sweatpants but rather a sophisticated fashion item embellished with sequins, transparency, and unusual designs. They even want to adopt a flare cut, which may become very trendy. Many famous people, including Kendall Jenner, have already embraced this trend after seeing it on the catwalks of Gucci and Knwls.

Ballet Shoes

After the hefty combat boots and sneakers of 2022—which won't entirely vanish—the time it's for a more understated and elegant shoe to take center stage. Ballet flats will be available starting in January, continuing the ballet core craze that started last autumn and has amassed 220 million followers (views) on TikTok. Ballet flats, made popular by the fashion label MiuMiu, can be worn with or without socks and are quickly gaining traction among a group of astute influencers.

Neutrals And Pastels

With a few exceptions, colors will be more subdued in 2023 due to the dominance of normcore, resulting in more understated clothing. Gray, white, and black, which will be the foundation of our outfit, will be prevalent everywhere. The goal is to get back to the fundamentals and adopt a more long-lasting and healthy approach to fashion. Among the fashion labels that have chosen beige as one of their favorite hues for the upcoming year is Sacai, Fendi, Tod's, and Coperni. But keep in mind that cobalt blue will also add a pop of color to closets.

Prints

Designers have given prominence to prints of all kinds, with vibrant colors, fun patterns, and occasionally bizarre throwback designs and eccentric motifs, like at Moschino, as though in response to this trend of neutral, nearly boring colors. You can also anticipate geometric or abstract patterns, XXL logos, cartoons, and futuristic prints that combine the real world with the cyber world, as well as exotic fruits, flowers, leopards, zebra, and snake prints. There will be options for every taste. On the runways of Roberto Cavalli, Gucci, Dolce &Gabbana, and Saint Laurent, this trend was visible.

Pairing up jewelry with these items is not very difficult. Simple elegant jewelry which is available in an Indian jewelry store in Maryland will be good enough to complement your outfit.

[bhaskarlive]

Fashion has become a popular theme on TikTok

Fashion has become a popular theme on TikTok, with some of Indias most popular fashion creators sharing their personal fashion statement on the platform, inspiring millions of users.

Fashion has always been a form of creative self-expression. For some people, it’s a way to reinvent themselves, and for others, it is an extension of their true personality. Fashion reflects diversity, and yet it’s personal as its definition changes from person to person!

#Fashion has become a popular theme on TikTok #TikTok community #fashion creators #1MinLook #FashionWeek #ShoeChallenge #lifestyle news #English News With Bhaskarlive #Bhaskarlive

[scarlettriot]

Mina Ashido Headcanons!

@jewel116 requested some headcanons of our Alien Queen and I am here to deliver!

Some of these also could be considered BakuSquad HCs, hope that's alright.

I also went ahead and included some Adult Mina and 18+ Mina Headcanons too. Both are below the cut and clearly stated. Warnings are posted at each header mark.

If anyone has any other requests, lemme know!

Basic Mina Headcanons

Warnings: It's as fluffy as her dang hair! (Swearing)

. Most definitely has ADHD! In class, she is constantly tapping her foot on bouncing her leg as a means of trying her best to keep focused.

. Has a collection of shirts that she has designated for sleep and loungewear because she's burned acid holes in them by accident. Sometimes she'll wear them to concerts and shows if the design is cool enough.

. Loves piggyback rides! Frequently will run and jump on the backs of the guys in the BakuSquad. Even Katsuki himself puts up with it after a while.

. While Katsuki is the 'mom' of the squad, Mina is the one everyone goes to when they need comfort. Denki will curl up in her lap after a long day, Eijiro frequently goes to her when his insecurities creep back in, Hanta shows up late at night and they talk in her room about nothing just because he doesn't want to be alone, and Katsuki, well, he shows up to her room, slams the door and complains for a solid half-hour after reading a particularly heartbreaking scene in a manga while she listens to every word and validates his feelings.

. Mina worries far more than people believe she does. Her bubbly, loud, personality usually masks it but she knows when people are lying to her about what's going on in their heads.

. Sitting properly in a chair physically bothers her. She'd much rather be hanging upside down off it.

. She lowkey likes that the boys get protective over her.

. Mina is the type of person who gets A LOT of random thoughts that pop up in her head and one of the few people who actually will engage with the sheer randomness of the ideas is Shoto. Not only does he engage, he comes up with his own! The two can talk for hours.

. Loves hosting 'spa parties' in the common area of the dorms, everyone is welcome to join.

. When road trips happen, she's making the playlists (technically, she and Kyoka switch off).

. Tries teaching Tenya, Izuku, and Shoto how to flirt. After a very embarrassing first hour, Shoto didn't learn a single thing, Izuku was only good at it when paired with Shoto and Tenya... Tenya had her SHOOK! Man has game and she made sure everyone knew!

. Has weekly meetings with Yuga where they drink tea and spill the tea.

. She is so damn ticklish. Hanta was teasing her one day, she warned him to stop, he received an elbow to the face for not listening.

. Tried to grow her hair out once but it didn't grow down... it grew OUT. Mina thought she rocked it, and she totally did but ended up having it cut back down so poor Tsyu could see in class.

. Wakes up early three days a week to practice her hand-to-hand combat with Eijiro. Mina wants to improve her technique and Eijiro needed to work on his mobility, it benefits them both.

. Just Dance is her favorite game, she dominates.

. Easily forms new interests.

. Won't admit it but she gets jealous super easily.

. Will be the first to attempt to throw hands for a friend! I HC she was picked on as a child for looking so different but it never really phased her too badly, she likes looking different but understands that not everyone thinks like she does. So, if someone were to say something about Mezo's facemask, she's stepping in to defend the guy without hesitation.

. Knows every TikTok dance EVER. If a new one comes out, she's mastered it by end of the day and her account is always up to date.

. (Popular idea but important to reinforce) Mina and Eijiro co-founded a club, Horn Buddies, specifically to make Eri feel more welcome. They take her on trips and group outings. The only horned person who's not allowed to join is Pony because she was rude as heck to Mezo.

. Mina gets extra competitive over board games.

. She can ice skate and roller skate like a champ.

. Mina is resilient, dedicated, and passionate. She has goals and the girl will achieve them.

Pro Hero - Adult Mina Headcanons

Warnings - Mentions of alcohol use and swearing

. Gets several tattoos and piercings.

. Starts a roller derby club with most of the girls from 1A.

. Loves going out to the hottest dance clubs just as much as she enjoys staying in and munching on take-out food with friends.

. The Horn Buddies club she formed with Eijiro has now expanded into regular society and both young heroes couldn't be more proud. Together they've formed a foundation that strives to help those with non-flashy, unconventional, or misunderstood quirks feel welcomed and loved.

. Does her best to shop small whenever she can. Mina wants to help her community in as many different ways as possible.

. Becomes a fashion icon for many small, just starting out, alternative clothing lines. They love her look and the standard she sets.

. Goes to fashion and runway shows with Momo on the regular. While Momo prefers buying right off the rack, Mina goes to thrift stores and buys items that are coming back into style.

. Does her best to stay in touch with her classmates. She really cherished the friendships she made and goes the extra mile to make sure everyone stays connected.

. Has told off Shoto's father. Sent the man an anonymous bag of flaming dog shit as well for making his son so damn stressed. Sorry, not sorry.

. As long as she isn't in the middle of a fight, Mina will always stop to take a photo with a fan or sign an autograph. In or out of costume, she doesn't care.

. In high school, Mina's room was always decked out for the holidays. She goes decoration crazy and it is always done well. But, now that she's an adult with that pro hero money and her own place, she's the best house on the block decorated for each and every holiday! Inside and out! Also throws holiday-themed parties.

. Got absolutely trashed with the BakuSquad one night and taught them all how to twerk. By the end of the lesson, she deemed Katsuki was the best of her students.

. Loves to drink. Is a lightweight. Katsuki and Eijiro have carried her home more times than they can count.

NSFW 18+ Mina HC Below - Minors DNI

Warnings: Drinking, rough sex, mentions of orgies, handcuffs, impact play, and praise kinks. Subtle sexual relations with BakuSquad, Jiro, Todoroki, and Ochaco.

. The Queen of stripteases and lap dances.

. If any of her friends are at a party or some event and they need a fake date, Mina is their go-to person. She's handsy. She's flirty. And has no problem with platonic make-outs.

. Always encourages kissing-themed games at parties. Seven Minutes in Heaven, Spin the Bottle, those sorts of games. Mina also loves to play cupid and has rigged a game or two to get people together.

. Has made out with every member of the BakuSquad at least once as well as Kyoka, Shoto, and Ochaco simply because she was curious.

. Has attempted to start an orgy with the BakuSquad before when intoxicated. Still mentions it in passing just in case they change their minds.

. Has gone further with Katsuki and Eijiro though. Maybe both at the same time once or twice or several times...

. Wonderfully filthy dirty talk. Can even make Katsuki blush.

. (A personal favorite of mine that was in a previous post) When they were first years, Eijiro asked innocently enough, to touch her horns. He was gentle but that didn't matter. Our poor girl was so damn flustered! Her face turned red bright, she felt hot, and she had to go take a very cold shower!

. Ei felt terrible about it. It took them both maturing for her to explain exactly why she reacted that way... and then asked him to do it again.

. Is likely to send NSFW texts and photos while people are indeed at work. She is a Pro Hero though so only certain people are allowed to have those photos. A scandal is the last thing she wants.

. Very good at communication and is not afraid to speak her mind about what she wants and needs out of a relationship and her sex life.

. Loud, very loud, very needy.

. Fuzzy handcuffs in every color she can think of and adores impact play.

. Let her know she's doing a good job, Mina responds well to praise.

. Big cuddler after sex. Wants to snuggle into you and more than likely take a nap.

#mha headcanons #bnha headcanons #mha #mina ashido #mina ashido headcanons #mina ashido fluff #bakusquad #bakusquad headcanons #mina ashido smut #katsuki bakugo smut #eijiro kirishima smut #kirishima #bakugo #denki kaminari #hanta sero #shoto todoroki #bakukirimina

[dippedanddripped]

Old Nollywood aesthetics and fashion may be considered trendy today, but the films were not always so well-regarded. In the 90s and early 2000s, when these movies were made and watched in parlours across Nigerian homes as they were shot, straight-to-video, they were considered as bad entertainment, or ‘low culture’. To watch and enjoy Nollywood films was to celebrate mediocrity. But today, nostalgic young Millennials and Gen Zers are overlooking the jarring audio, grainy pictures, and sometimes hammy acting, to appreciate not only the grooming and style of the actors, but the original and diverse stories that reflect unique Nigerian experiences.

It was for this reason that sisters Tochi and Ebele Anueyiagu started Nolly Babes, a nostalgic Instagram account dedicated to celebrating the cinematic period’s women. Started in December 2017, their first post was of Nollywood’s biggest star Genevieve Nnaji; a still taken from 2004 film Sharon Stone In Abuja, directed by Adim Williams. Nnaji plays the titular character, a sexually liberated young woman who uses her beauty and charm to ensnare unassuming men into doing her bidding.

The account is an ode to the female characters of old Nollywood who were often portrayed as warning examples. The storylines were steeped in moral principles rooted in the patriarchal culture and the dominant Christian religion of Southern Nigeria. A large number of the female characters were considered immoral because they kissed other women, challenged men, smoked and drank, or wore mini skirts. Today, Nolly Babes and similar accounts are reimagining these women, taking their scenes out of the moralistic context of the films, and turning them into iconic feminist personas.

The first time Nollywood content seeped into the mainstream internet consciousness can be traced back to 2017 when videos of Nollywood’s favourite comedic duo Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme, better known as Aki and Pawpaw, rose to popularity due mostly to the influence of a now-defunct Twitter account @nollywoodroll ran by Nicole, a woman based in Brazil.

Their memes became the go-to reaction videos for expressing a wide range of emotions: joy, disappointment, sadness, frustration. The appeal was in seeing children making mischief or in adult situations – drinking beer and smoking cigars, wooing bigger women, or in oversized suits shouting instructions at people twice their size. Although both Ikedieze and Iheme were in their 20s in the early 2000s when most of the films were made, they mostly played children because of their body stature. By 2019, the memes had achieved such virality that brands like Rihanna’s Fenty would use them for social media clout.

Theodora Imaan Beauvais is the curator of Yung Nollywood, another archive of clips and stills from old Nollywood paying homage to its controversial female characters, after screenshotting moments from Nollywood she found “appealing or inspirational”. Yung Nollywood is remarkably distinct from Nolly Babes for its subtitling of the films’ stills from Nollywood films, something she attributes to Tumblr. While the idea to give witty captions to the actors’ facial expressions came from watching Netflix. “I thought, ‘If someone could describe Nollywood reactions in short phrases it’d be an art form on its own,’ and I became that someone.’”

In December 2019, Tochi and Ebele hosted a Nollywood-themed party in Lagos. Nollywood actor and musician Nonso Bassey attended the party dressed in a two-piece jean set and bucket hat, a signature look of the bad boy/alpha male archetype, and a role reprised multiple times by older actors such as Hanks Anuku, Emeka Ike, and Jim Iyke. Since that party, Nonso has attended social functions and premieres in outfits that make a nod to the fashion choices of that era of Nollywood. He insists, though, that he isn’t cosplaying Nollywood characters of that era. “I’ve always been attracted to the idea of merging old world charm with a new school approach,” he said.

The party caused a cultural stir amongst Nigerians and Africans both at home and in the diaspora – every other week, there seems to be a Nollywood-themed party held either in Lagos or London. Take for instance friends and business partners Imani Okunubi and Aseosa Uwagboe, two Nigerian-British kids who grew up in the UK. Nollywood was one of the ways they could connect back to their roots. That experience informs their event brand, Lasgidi to London, targeted at Nigerians living in the UK. “We wanted to create events that were reminiscent of the Naija hall parties (Owambe) we attended as kids, as we don’t want to see that culture die,” Aseosa said. Their next owambe is a Nollywood-themed party and guests are expected to come dressed in their “best nolly Y2K aesthetic”.

Below, the Nolly Babes sisters talk about creating and hosting the first Nollywood-themed party and the cultural moment it has inspired.

How did that first event come about – please take me through it, from the planning to how it turned out?

Nolly Babes: From the inception of Nolly Babes, we knew we had to throw a party. Fashion is a huge part of what makes Nolly Babes different from other Nollywood-themed pages and we knew we were the only ones that could set Nolly Babes as the dress code and have people commit as they did. There are many iconic Nollywood scenes and scenarios. The daughter meeting her evil mother-in-law, the ominous visit to the Babalawo, the campus stroll – just the mere mention of these scenes evokes images that have been embedded in the minds of our fellow Nollywood enthusiasts. The party scene is probably the most iconic of them all. Whether it’s in a club, a mansion while mum and dad are out of town (but coming home early to crash the whole thing) or poolside, the Nolly Babes party scene has its staples: mad music, dancing, and sick outfits.

December in Lagos is notoriously hectic. On each day, there are day parties, beach hangouts, concerts, and we just knew we had to be a part of it. Our flyer was the first thing we made sure was done right, and that has been replicated (but never duplicated) many many times. We went through at least six drafts of that until we got the flyer to be a realistic replica of the home video covers from the golden era. The DJs Kemi Lijadu and vIVENDII Sounds understood the assignment and played music from the Nolly Babes era. We’re talking Tony Tetuila, Mo Hitz, Wande Coal, Plantation Boyz… We curated a special cocktail menu: Genny Colladas, Jim Iyke’s Hard Lemonade, MargaRita Dominic, and our Lagos Island Iced Tea, in tribute to Nollywood stars Genevieve Nnaji, Jim Iyke, and Rita Dominic respectively. We had a video projection on the famous red wall at Nok showing a mashup of emblematic scenes. We were partying while seeing images of a young Jim Iyke dressed just like many of the attendees were dressed. It was magical! We have an event we’re planning in New York for the summer – it’s going to be a madness.

Did you envisage it becoming the cultural movement it’s now become?

Nolly Babes: We really didn’t. We hosted the party because we knew people were taking inspiration from our page for styling jobs and music video treatments, and wanted to give everyone a chance to recreate some of their favourite looks. Now every week we see people planning Nollywood-themed parties and sending people to our page for references. It’s awesome. Toke Makinwa even recently attended a Nolly Babes-themed party and she was dressed as a character we have immortalised – Regina Askia in President’s Daughter. She killed it! Even though the character wasn’t referenced, it was clear as day and it was awesome to see that she pulled it off! Honestly, when we see people really pay attention to detail and execute the theme well it’s so, so dope.

How has TikTok helped grow Nollywood's influence? You posted a scene from Girls Cot, the famous “you stink with poverty” clip on TikTok and it went viral and birthed these recreations even by non-Africans.

Nolly Babes: We’re just happy to see that another aspect of Nollywood that we champion – the iconic scenes and one-liners – is also resonating across the world. We see Nolly Babes as an archival work and as much as we focus on beauty and looks on Instagram, it’s nice to be able to point people in the direction of the scenes that are forever embedded in our brains. These are scenes we recreated in jest ourselves before there was even a Nolly Babes to begin with, so to see it catching on TikTok is exciting and a new frontier for us to fully explore. I think what distinguishes Nolly Babes from other Nollywood pages and what contributes to our TikTok success is that we really watch Nollywood movies. We grew up watching these movies and continue to do so now so we can capture those moments in films that the casual consumer or poster of Nollywood content might not.

What are your thoughts on Nollywood’s influence on the Alté scene? Music videos of artists such as Lady Donli and Odunsi nod to the aesthetic and fashion styles of that era.

Nolly Babes: Nollywood, and specifically the aesthetic we have shone a spotlight on, is probably one of the biggest influences in terms of visuals in that scene right now. I have never seen so many Eucharia (Anunobi) eyebrows on TV and we love it! It’s awesome to see our images and scenes being used in treatments and storyboards. If we’re being candid, we think it would be great if we got the chance to step into our stylist/creative direction bag and help with the execution of the aesthetic.

“The bottom line is really that Nolly Babes has brought what was already an international cultural influence to the modern social media realm with a new lens” – Nolly Babes

How far do you see Nollywood's influence on pop culture, beyond Nigeria and Africa?

Nolly Babes: When we moved to New York we found our Dominican and South American friends had also grown up watching Nollywood films. The bottom line is really that Nolly Babes has brought what was already an international cultural influence to the modern social media realm with a new lens. Nollywood clips were online everywhere – but it was always in a comedic way. Aki and PawPaw are meme gods now, and that’s because their expressions transcend cultural boundaries. Black Twitter eats that stuff up.

Nolly Babes chooses to center the beauty, style, and iconic imagery, even the home decor with our #NollyDecor hashtag of the golden era of Nollywood. We share the makeup, accessories, fashion, iconic phrases, and scenes in a way that isn’t just comedic but inspirational and aesthetically groundbreaking. I see Nollywood being at the centre of this Y2K resurgence that is happening all over the world, from TV to runways and fashion collections. That era is coming back around and, this time, the Black experience is being revisited and centered in a way it wasn’t back in the late 90s and 2000s. (Black people) were always the originators of the trends and this time they’re tapping into the source and Nollywood, particularly the era we celebrate as Nolly Babes, is a great resource for that.

Follow Nolly Babes on Instagram

#nollybabes #nollywood #late 90s fashion #y2k fashion #womens streetwear

[iheartsunset]

HCs for my Papa Louie: a Thousand Little Words AU part 1

(Okay so Icee has made another Papa Louie AU that’s extremely outlandish)

-So the basic premise is that Brody is an artist and instructor who’s struggling to gain recognition. He doesn’t like aristocrats and nobles and stuff because of him growing up in Toastwood, a town mostly inhabited by industrial workers. Anyways, he’s commissioned by Rita, the Duchess of Burgerburgh who’s also one of King Louie’s royal advisors (Papa Louie would totally crown himself king, let’s be real), to paint a portrait of her and Prudence, the optimistic and cheery countess of Tastyville, to help show the strong ties between the different places of Flipline. Anyways, the three have banter because Brody hates the nobility who don’t appreciate the people below them, Rita wants to be seen as powerful like the male court members, and Prudence is torn between following her heart and marrying her lover or doing her duty by having an arranged marriage. Willow, a poet, enchants the painting so that it becomes a scary portal to weirdcore tiktok land, which promises to grant the three their biggest desires. Meanwhile, Skyler, Brody’s sculptor best friend, embarks on a mission with Cecilia, Cooper and Taylor to help save them all.

I know I marketed this as a Victorian AU, but i based it off of Dangerous Liaisons, which took place in the 1760s. So this AU would probably take place around that Ancien Regime time period with a rococo style to the fashion and architecture. A few Victorian or regency elements might be present in the wardrobe, but that’s purely because Icee is not good at history.

-The three don’t get along at first. Like Prudence and Rita’s friendship was pretty much fake just to show the people of Flipline the harmony between each nation, but Prudence actually kinda tries to be social with Rita. Brody is super sarcastic and Rita’s equally sarcastic, so they become kind of best friends as the story goes. Brody is kinder to Prudence since she’s too nice for him to despise. All in all, just three vastly different people stuck in a situation together and becoming found family.

-The Romano Family Quartet is popular back in their home dimension, but in the alternate reality, SATS is there to replace them. SATS has edgier music and darker themes while TRFQ is more like a fancy string quartet type thing. Rita and Marty meet and there’s romantic chemistry there, but then stuff goes down because this is weirdcore.

-The land is very strange. The leaves and grass are dark, the sky looks like it’s melting, the atmosphere feels so heavy, and there’s eyes and mushrooms everywhere. Lots of rainbow motifs can be seen throughout and Brody swears he can see shadows following them constantly. The people there seem like normal people, just…off. Like Koilee’s smile seems way too wide to be sincere, Mme. LeMaire (Maggie)’s voice has a slightly sinister tone, and what is up with Scarlett’s eyes?

So yeah, that’s what I got so far for this AU. Feel free to let me know if you have any more ideas or what you think so far!

#papa louie #flipline studios #flipline #my hcs #papa louie: a thousand little words au #icee can’t decide on a time period #the alternate universe is just an old timey mellow mushroom that goes on for 800 acres #evil SATS #carlo uses his mandolin as a weapon at some point #rita is pissed at brody and rightfully so #rita and brody and prudence are a strange but welcome trio #weirdcore AU

[platesandelevation]

The Romanticisation of Lolita

A few years ago, I read the novel Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov, which follows a tale through the eyes of forty year old man Humbert Humbert, and his twelve year old stepdaughter, with whom he becomes sexually obsessed with. Sounds rather grim, right? Well, after researching the book a little further, it didn’t take long for me to come across the disturbing online community dedicated to the romanticisation of Lolita and its downright paedophilic “love story” between the two characters.

The way in which Lolita has been interpreted by readers in the media has had wide-spread effects on women and girls. It’s completely transformed the way in which women and girls are viewed. The main platform where I’ve seen the most twisted perceptions of Lolita’s storyline- is TikTok. I’ve seen some incredible infuriating and naive videos on that app; young girls dressed as Dolores Haze, young girls promoting ‘nymphet’ fashion, young girls trying to excuse Humbert’s actions… noticing a pattern here? The romanticisation of Lolita on platforms popular amongst the younger generation encourages girls to inadvertently make themselves more vulnerable to sexual violence and exploitation, which is further explained in Meenakshi Gigi Durham’s book The Lolita effect: The Media Sexualisation of Young Girls and What We Can Do About it. The ‘Lolita effect’ comes from the negative connotation of the word ‘Lolita’ and is the way in which people sexualise young girls, due to the unpressed desire that society has for them.

Another way in which I have witnessed Lolita being romanticised in the media is through celebrities. This includes famous pop singer Lana Del Rey, who rose to fame for her music in 2011. Lana Del Rey is problematic in many ways, including the message she sends to her audience through some of her most controversial songs, which steep in the themes of Nabokov’s novel. In Born to Die, her 2012 album, she includes multiple references to Lolita, for example, in her song ‘Off to the races’, she steals the opening lines of the novel; “Light of my life. Fire of my loins” and includes the phrase “my old man is a bad man”- which is a direct reference to the book. Furthermore, she even has a song called ‘Lolita’, and another called ‘Carmen’- one of Humbert’s favourite nicknames for Dolores. I am a fan of her work myself and hearing songs such as ‘Carmen’ and ‘This is What Makes Us Girls’, it seems as if she’s aware of the dangers that can come of an underaged girl deciding to be promiscuous and careless. However, songs like ‘Lolita’ and ‘Off to the Races’ send a completely different message, as they seem to imply that she’s almost glorifying these sorts of situations by making young girls who act older than they are seem ‘sweet’ and ‘cute’. Though I understand that Lana Del Rey cannot be held accountable for the behaviour of her fans, what’s dangerous is the fact that her music reaches young girls who may get the wrong idea and think that it’s sexy and mature to pursue an older man. I may be misinterpreting her lyrics, but since she hasn’t addressed the rumours surrounding her songs, I often wonder where her her true intentions lie.

Lana Del Rey isn’t the only celebrity with an absurd fascination for Lolita- famous singer and TikTok star Madison Beer has also faced backlash for openly romanticising the novel. Not only did she state to her instagram followers that it was her favourite book, when asked if she romanticises it, she responded, “I definitely do. But we’re not going to talk about that.” Though there technically isn’t anything wrong with Madison Beer having Lolita as her favourite book, the fact that she has no problem with admitting to condoning and supporting the events of the story is utterly disgusting and cannot be excused. The actions and opinions of these celebrities are extremely dangerous since Madison Beer and Lana Del Rey both have large fan bases and serve as role models to kids and teens in the media, to which they provide unhealthy examples, which could be detrimental to the safety of their younger supporters.

When I read Lolita, my first impressions were simply that it was shocking and immoral. I find it incredibly difficult to understand how people can perceive it any other way. The relationship between Lolita and Humbert was not passionate, nor was their fate tragic. It’s a piece of beautiful, accomplished literature which tells the story of an awful and sickening chain of events. While reading the book, I soon realised that Humbert was not a reliable narrator, since he continuously tricked us into believing that him and Dolores were in love, rather than the reality that their “forbidden relationship” consisted of nothing more than a middle-aged man in a position of power repeatedly taking advantage of a young girl.

It sickens me to see how the media has completely warped Nabokov’s magnum opus from a disturbing psychological thriller into a romantic aesthetic which grooms young girls- which is exactly what the author was trying to criticise. Not to mention, the book was inspired by the true events of Sally Horner’s kidnapping in 1948- a story which has been forgotten, since she died before she even had a chance to tell it herself. A real girl went through such trauma and people still view Lolita as a novel of dark romance, and decide that it’s okay to turn this cautionary tale into one of romanticisation and idealisation. Furthermore, on publication, the novel was temporarily banned across parts of Europe and reviled as “sheer unrestrained pornography” (which I don’t entirely disagree with), although Graham Greene boldly maintained that it was “one of the three best books of 1955”. Nabokov originally intended to publish his novel pseudonymously, because of its subject matter, which further shows the controversy and criticism it should be receiving. The fact that there are so many individuals who sympathise with Humbert is shocking, especially since the book includes a foreword from a fictional psychologist at the very beginning, stating that Humbert’s actions were despicable.

In my opinion, Lolita should never have been turned into a film, since it has played a critical role in inspiring the romanticisation of this twisted tale, and has further contributed to the normalisation of grooming in the media. Both film adaptations completely neglect Humbert’s graphic thoughts of abuse towards Dolores and multiple other girls, therefore further romanticising the story for people who have not read the book. Stanley Kubrick’s 1962 film of Lolita should have never been adapted into a second film. This is because Adrian Lyne’s 1997 film of Lolita becomes a sort of weepy tragedy shot in gauzy, lyrical images, with Humbert as the tragic lead. It’s the story of Lolita, yet it manipulates us into believing Humbert at his word, purely for the purpose of cloaking it in respectability and production values. The selling point of the new Lolita has been its faithfulness to the novel, however, faithfulness is exactly what it seems to lack. Lyne’s film botches the time frame, eliminates some scenes, invents others, puts odd bits and pieces together, and provides vulgar and distasteful attempts at humour.

Overall, I believe that though Lolita is a complicated and emotional story with beautiful writing and a strong message, it shouldn’t be recognised as anything different. Lolita is not an aesthetic, nor is it a love story. Even though so many people sympathise with Humbert, we must never mistake Lolita for being a novel sympathising with him and no matter how charming his character is presented and no matter how far one agrees with this murderers prose, it’s just a facade. Similar to other Nabokov novels, Humbert is an unreliable narrator. What he tells us is his side of the story, a twisted narrative in which Dolores as a character is warped and amplified. He uses her ‘signals’ as a way to twist the story’s events and justify his own actions. Humbert Humbert has always been condemned (though not by everyone), he should be condemned, and the people who are ignorant enough to choose not to condemn him and instead choose to validate and romanticise the rape of a twelve year old girl by putting Humbert on a pedestal are contributing to rape culture, victim-blaming and self-blame for victims.

#literature #book review #fiction #lolita #writers #lana del rey #madison beer #social media