To Shave or Not to Shave: That is the Question

For men, facial hair can be a funny thing. Some can grow full rugged mountain man beards while others are limited to the peach fuzz that sprouts on chins and cheeks.

Like all fashion trends, facial hair styles are ever changing. Based on appearances during New York's Fashion Week, the 2010 men's in look has been determined: be clean cut or go bare.

No matter what style you choose to wear or how you decide to shave, thanks to AskMen.com, there are a few tips to keep in mind while creating and maintaining your signature facial hair statement.

Do
1.Keep it clean: whether you decide to shave it all off or let it grow, make sure to trim and keep those few scraggly hairs reined in. The look of a close shave appeals to women and all men look good without facial hair.

2.Natural vs dyed: leave the hair coloring to the hormonal and temperamental women. Men look better and more mature as they age so don't stress about those greys popping through.

3. Go retro: side burns and goatees were popular decades past but are making a comeback. Modernize the look by tightening up the goatee and keeping sideburns short.

Don't
1.Make it a joke: unless you are Yosemite Sam, facial hair like handlebar mustaches should be left to characters with the personality to pull them off.

2.Force the issue: you can either grow it or you can't. Its a natural thing. If all you get is peach fuzz or a dark patch here and there, shave it all off. It looks more refined and less like puberty that way.

3. Mismatch tops and bottoms: Long hair should have stopped with the end of the hippie era but many men still adorn long locks. If you insist on keeping your hair lengthy, wear a short beard or no facial hair at all and keep it washed. Try not to resemble Grizzly Adams.

So before you forgo picking up that razor and skip your morning shave, just remember that less is more when it comes to facial hair and just a little done right will go a long way.

A Rainbow of Colors Raises Awareness

They first became popular with the Lance Armstrong 'Livestrong' bracelet.It seemed like everyone was wearing them. A golden yellow rubber bracelet with the motto 'Livestrong' engraved into it. Armatrong wore his wristband as a sign that he was a cancer survivor, others wore theirs to support cancer survivors and contribute to finding a cure.

Soon thereafter a whole myriad of rainbow support bracelets were produced. You can find any color for any cause. Light pink for breast cancer, red for AIDS, yellow to support our troops are some examples of the more well known causes. Then there are some of the more unknown causes like dark green for tissue donation, light purple for animal abuse, and blue for free speech.

I think that that the sale of these bracelets are a great fundraising mechanism for social causes and the actual wearing of these bracelets is a great way to show your support. My question is, where is the bracelet that is supportive of ending violence agains women?

It seems like every other issue is represented but this one, and violence against women is a prominent issue that happens in public and behind closed doors. Every person can relate or had heard of or knows some woman who is mentally, verbally, even physically abused.

Several websites provide custom made bracelets that you can fit specifically to your cause. They are inexspensive to make but the revenue generated from sales contribute to great causes. Maybe I will have bracelets that support the end of violence against women made and donate the proceeds to local women's support organizations.

Post your opinions about which color best represents this issue and stay posted for future information regarding the fight in ending violence against women.

Badges of Honor and Reminders that Cannot be Removed

Scars are human imperfections that cannot be removed unless done professionally and painfully. Many even try to cover these natural pieces of art with tattoos. Some people are embarrassed or ashamed of their scars while others wear them with pride. Sadly, some people seem to forget that scars do not define who we are as a person, but characterize what we have experienced.

The best part about a scar is that it is a physical reminder of an event that happened in ones life. Thanks to that bit of flawed or marred skin, you will never forget a story.

I cannot say that all scar stories are great but they definitely serve a purpose. Scars are a conversation starter and sometimes a physical anecdote from a not so wonderful time in ones life or an act of stupidity.

Scars are unique and come in all shapes and sizes. Scars can result from any injury or incident and can sometimes surprise you. Personally, my body is covered in scars. Some are of sustenance and others are just from various accidents in my day to day life.

My favorite scar story that I have heard so far is that of Ron Minor. After a kidney transplant, the faint little incision line where one kidney was removed and one from his wife was inserted, serves as a reminder for him to value life as it is, one day at a time, and appreciate what he has. The scar will not completely disappear over time, but his advocacy for African Americans to check for Kidney disease will continue as long as the scar exists.

My scar stories are not exciting. The biggest one I have is on my forearm and happened while removing a hot bread pan from an oven. The scar that I am most proud of is the minute dash on my hand from slicing bagels. The freakiest scars I have are the identical vertical lines on the back of both my knees from careless shaving habits.

I want to hear the stories behind your scars. Scars are the aftermath of some event that happened in your life. Some may be important or life changing and others might be menial, but none the less valued. Post comments about your scars and pictures if you can.

Models of the Runway Should Wear Clothes not Critique Them

My guilty pleasure, Project Runway on Thursday nights, is in its seventh season on Lifetime and unfortunately, has so far disappointed me. Usually hosting an assortment of innovative and interesting designers, this season seems to be full of cry babies, gay guy stereotypes, and cocky women. The focus no longer seems to be on fabulous clothes but on the drama in the sewing room.

Part of the intrigue of Project Runway is the challenges in which the designers must compete. Between heart inspired charity gowns to grocery store product outfits to burlap sacks, the challenges always leave you wondering what will these designers create next.

The designers and judges themselves generate enough drama amongst themselves but Lifetime just couldn't get enough. The network launched Models of the Runway, a show that airs right after each show and documents what the models think about working with each designer, the designs they wear themselves, and the criticism of the judges.

I am a self admitted feminist but I think that in this case, the models just need to keep their mouths shut. Not to objectify women but models are merely walking clothes hangers when on the runway. They are paid to wear and sell clothes, not critique them.

I hope that the season gets more crafty and impressive as the designers advance to Fashion week in Bryant Park but I would appreciate it the criticism of the designers was left to the audience, the other designers, and Tim Gunn, Heidi Klum, Michael Kors, Nina Garcia, and guest judges.

Freezing Tempertures and Mass Snowfall Prompts Sales of Winter Survival Gear in Maryland

Mid winter weather is finally taking its toll and many Marylanders are unprepared for the snow and freezing elements. President Obama labeled the recent blizzard of 2010, "Snowmageddon." Although an extreme inconvenience, mass amounts of snow are prime for outdoor sports and events like snowboarding, skiing, sledding, building snow men, and over a hundred people snowball fights, similar to the mass snowball fight at Towson University organized by a student on Facebook.

Playing in the snow can be fun but all of this snow can also be a chore. Sidewalks and driveways need to be shoveled and cars need to be dug out. All of this winter activity is a great way to shed those extra holiday calories but precautions need to be taken. Wearing proper winter attire is a necessity in below freezing temperatures.

Winter essentials include the basics: heavy coat, hat, gloves, scarves, snow pants, boots, and thick socks. The key element to surviving winter weather; layers. Despite how unflattering chunky sweaters and long johns may be, there is no doubt that you will be warm while wading through the snow to defrost your car.

Name brands like the North Face, Columbia, and any snowboard or ski company will have heavy duty winter weather wear and can be purchased at any outdoor sports store but in reality, any jacket will suffice. Staying warm and preparing for anything is one of the major aspects of surviving winter, even in temperate Maryland.

Jersey Shore and Other Teen Phenomenon Sadly Shaping Young Culture

Since the premier of the new reality television phenomenon, Jersey Shore, on January 28, the guido hair style has unfortunately made a comeback among many college students. Even worse, many girls are trying to replicate the infamous poof worn by Jersey Shore star Nicole "Snookie" Polizzi.

The poof has been around since the early 1950's and has experienced many changes throughout the decades. The big hair obsession and the poof peeked in the 80's but was finally reined in to a more sleek and sophisticated style by the mid 2000's known as the bump or the yorkie.

Snookie, along with the rest of the cast of the Jersey Shore, seems to of somehow managed to convince several college students that gelled and product laden hair is still sexy and that the bigger, and more ridiculously shaped, the better.

The Towson University student body is largely populated by people from New York and New Jersey. Although not all students from these areas fit the stereotype, popped collars, nasally voices, bleach blonde hair, and blinged out accessories are a commonality seen throughout campus.

Like Twilight, The Hills, and True Blood, Jersey Shore seems to be one of those teen sensations that are so bad that people become obsessed and cannot get enough of it. Television is shaping most of our generation into walking advertisements and guido looking vampire fashionista wannabes.

I admit that I wear my hair in a bump sometimes when going out and drool over designer labels, but when hair more resembles a beehive, tanned skin has an orange glow to it, and sucking blood is the new diet trend, I draw the line.

Students Greeted with Signature Starbucks Apron and a Smile

Part of the college experience is dining on campus. Towson University and Black and Gold Catering company host a variety of different dining atmospheres and cuisine that appeal to any palate. However, some of these dining experiences may taste better than others. Ptux is like dining at a Michelin star restaurant in comparison to the fare offered at Glen dining hall.

The best place on campus by far to stifle those minor hunger pains and grab a cup of coffee on the go is the Starbucks located on the first floor of Cook Library. Despite the budget breaking prices and usually long lines, students who stop here are always welcomed by an assortment of friendly baristas.

Also donned in the signature green apron, Starbucks logo, and name tag, it seems that part of this particular Starbucks employee uniform is a smile. Unlike many of the members of the Black and Gold Catering company, the women who work at Starbucks are always cheerful and eager to help you.

Whether it is 8 a.m. and you are trudging to class half awake and in desperate need for that jolt of java or it is 8 p.m. and you need a study break and a shock of sugar to your system for that all night study session, these women will provide you with a hot cup of coffee and an encouraging word to help you along.

Everyone could learn a lesson from these women at the Starbucks on campus. A good attitude and a smile makes your day easier and everyone else's day better. Even on the worst of exam days, that splash of green and flash of smile combined with empty calories and caffeine lightens my mood.

The Rise and Fall of College Fashion

The 2010 spring semester at Towson University started Monday, January 27. Rather than the usual assortment of Towson apparel, many students were decked out in casual dress clothes. Several girls could be seen in cute sweaters and tops, Uggs and high heels, and pea coats and North Face jackets. Several guys were seen wearing oversize hoodies with fresh kicks, name-brand tees and hats, and ski coats.

The excitement of the first day of school doesn't end once you graduate high school. Many people still see this day as a chance to make a good impression amongst their peers. A lot of college students still hit the mall and go school shopping in order to find that perfect first day of school outfit. Who knows, that cute guy or girl in your finance class at 8 a.m. might notice your brand new sneakers and strike up a conversation.

The concept of looking so fresh and so clean for classes in college however quickly changes as the semester passes. Once the work load finally sets in, social lives are renewed, and exams are around the corner, the way you look no longer matters for that 8 a.m. class. Many students resort to the comfort and classic appeal of old favorites: sweatpants and hoodies.

It is considered the just crawled out of bed look. Students barely have time to brush their hair or teeth before they hurry on to class after a long night of cramming over text books. I know that I am guilty of it on an almost weekly basis. My usual attire is sweatpants, a tee shirt and jacket, and my good ol' Red Sox baseball cap covering my unruly and tangled hair.

This look isn't for everyone and some days are better than others. After some rest and recovery, some students have the energy or resolve to improve their look and wear real clothes to class. Once the semester is in full swing however, those days are few and far between.

I think that looking a mess is just a part of the whole college experience. No one should be embarrassed about what they come to class in because I can guarantee you, the people around you probably look just as tired and under dressed as you do.

"Tipping makes you look sexy": How Public Behavior Reflects Personal Appearance

"Tipping makes you look sexy." This comment can be found on the tip jar of the counter at a local ice cream shop in Annapolis, Maryland. As a server in a restaurant, I found this joke not only to be funny but also true.

The percent that a patron tips a server or any other attendant reflects on that persons character. Although leaving a good tip might not actually make you look sexy physically, it does however affect how others consider you. A good tipper can be seen as generous and appreciative while a bad tipper can be seen as cheap and rude.

Current economic times are tough for everyone and I understand the need to save money but many people do not seem to realize that if they are suffering from financial turmoil due to the economy, so is everyone else.

The custom percent to tip has been debatable for centuries but today many agree that 18 to 20 percent is acceptable. However, many people are still only tipping 15 percent for services rendered. An article from The Temple News Online accurately expresses my feelings about the lack of awareness many people have about the wages of servers and what is considered appropriate tipping behavior.

As a server, I only make $3.85 an hour. Taxes and other fees are removed from my paycheck each pay period, usually resulting in a paycheck of negative numbers. Like many others in the service industry, I rely upon the tips I make to pay bills and my college tuition. It is not just frivolous spending money but my life blood. I do not think that many people are aware of that.

I cannot say that all servers or attendants deserve 20 percent if their service is not quality and up to par. But remember, the next time you go out to dinner and enjoy a nice meal with great service, that your server works just as hard as you do and deserves that 20 percent tip. It will certainly make his or her day and will reflect positively on you.

Sexy Little Things: Underwear Changes Attitude

Underwear, an essential part of one's daily wardrobe. Although usually not seen by others very often, what we decide to wear underneath our clothes is just as representative as the clothes we show to the rest of the world.

Underwear may seem like just another routine garment but actually has the power to change your attitude and appearance. Nothing makes a woman feel sexier than a well fitted bra and comfortable panties. It can be something as simple as a plain white pair of boy shorts or as racy as a lace trimmed, cheetah print see-through chemise.

Like all women, the best part about underwear is that it comes in all sizes, shapes, and colors and will fit all body types. It may take some trial and error and long hours in the fitting rooms, but you are bound to find a style that suits your body type perfectly and make you feel good about yourself.

Victoria's Secret hosted its annual fashion show on December 1. The models showcased a variety of the latest under garments in the Victoria's Secret line for the upcoming year. Each model wore a different piece of underwear, ranging from corsets, thongs, bikini briefs, sheer bras, and bathing suit tops. Although these women all represented a different style, they all rocked the same sense of confidence and the feminine playful, sexy attitude that is characteristic of Victoria's Secret Underwear.

Sometimes you just need to throw on your most ragged pair of granny panties to lounge around in on lazy days, but on days where you need that extra boost of confidence, slip into something sexy or that makes you feel good about yourself. Other people may not see what you have on underneath, but they will definitely notice your attitude and mental, emotional appearance.

Check out January's edition of Cosmopolitan magazine for advice from Victoria's Secrets' Angels themselves about which underwear they like best and what style is most appropriate for each body type.

It Looks like School Spirit: Towson Students Sport Black and Gold

You see it on chests, backs, legs, butts, even foreheads. The Towson University logo is slapped across any type of clothing article imaginable. A walk across campus reveals a sea of black and gold with students representing pride for their school.

If you ever have trouble deciding what to wear to class, the best resort is to reach for that TU hoodie, t-shirt, or sweatpants. Having a bad hair day? Just slip on a TU baseball cap.

All types of Towson University gear can be purchased at the University Union store for reasonable prices. If you don't have that extra cash to spend but want to show your school spirit and fit in with fellow students, just attend any TU event. It is almost guaranteed that they will be handing out free t-shirts to students in order to encourage them to participate. Free gear is part of the appeal for students to get involved at TU anyway. Well, free stuff and free food. We are poor college kids, you know.

Its almost impossible to not feel left out at any Towson University sporting event if you don't represent by wearing black and gold or have the tiger logo displayed somewhere upon your person. Showing that you have school spirit is something to be proud of so do it up with the black and gold.

Personally, I own all sorts of TU apparel. Both purchased from the University Union store or obtained from TU events. So don't be surprised on a cold,rainy day if you catch me walking across campus to my 8 a.m. in my black and gold t-shirt, sweatpants with the TU logo across the butt, my north face, and rain boots. This may not be the most fashionable outfit but who cares, I am representing my school and showing my pride for TU.

Pin Up Girls Highlight the Beauty of Full-bodied Models

Pin up girls first became popular in the 1980's and were often an idealized depiction of what many men and women deemed a very attractive or beautiful woman should look like. These women were often viewed as sex symbols and admired by the masses. Pin up girls portraits were either photographs of actual women, like actress Betty Grable, or illustrations of these women.

Traditional pin up girls have very little physical similarities in comparison to some of today's hottest and most famous models. Traditional pin up girls are more voluptuous and curvy than the thin, tall models that are photographed or walk runways today.

I think that pin up girls most accurately represent women in society today. Women come in all shapes and sizes and no two look alike. Although we are not always comfortable with the way we look or feel in our own skin, it is important for all women to realize that curves are beautiful and we should appreciate our physical appearance just the way we are as long as we are healthy.

If pin up girls were featured in today's advertisements there is a chance that women would have higher self esteem rather than feel under pressure to be more like the thin, waifish figures of models. Many women can relate to pin up girls better, not that today's models are not beautiful in their own way but big is beautiful too.

Suicide girls are a modern day example of traditional pin up girls. Although they are mostly photographed in the nude, suicide girls create an alternative image of real beauty.

Practical Accessories for Rainy Days

Relating back to an earlier post, The North Face, rain boots are not only a trendy fashion accessory but are a practicality, especially on days where you trek across campus in rainy, cold weather.

Similar to the Ugg boot phenomenon, many men still question this particular fashion trend and do not understand the craze for rubber boots. They may laugh but we will let them continue to walk into class with soggy shoes.

Rain boots come in a variety styles and colors and can either be paired with a coat and an umbrella or resemble the rubber ducky you once played with as a kid. Rain boots are durable and are a purchase worth investing in once the wet winter and spring weather arrives.

Either simple or flashy, rain boots are a women's fashion trend that is negatively criticized. However, one argument strongly supports the craze, rain boots are practical for rainy, cold days. So continue to sport your rain boots with pride ladies and maybe one rainy day, some men will come to realize that they just might want a pair too.

Vogue India Stirs Political and Social Controversy

Fashion has always been associated with high priced luxury items and Vogue magazine is notarized for carrying some of the latest, trendiest, most valued products in the industry. Vogue India however, has recently stirred political and social controversy with its September issue.

Several of the the magazine's fashion spreads depict barefoot children wearing Fendi bibs being carried through the village by toothless grandmothers carrying Hermes bags. One man is in the background walking with a Burberry umbrella.

These products cost over $200 dollars or more. India functions socially under a caste system with many of the population living in poverty. Many of these people earn as little as a dollar a day.

Normally, I admire Vogue for their portrayal of current fashion but in this particular edition, I feel that the products were poorly advertised. Vogue made a very strong statement about their values and insensitivity to human needs. A real statement has been made but it is sending the wrong message.

Although a fashion based magazine, Vogue could have had the opportunity to make a political statement about the poor living conditions and social discrimination the people of India face. This would have been a better way to use their spread and provide the chance to help others and shine a light on the fashion industry.

Preparing for Summer: Bathing Suit Style Guide

As the month of May approaches, we are getting the first few days of the nice weather that compromises Spring and Summer. It is time to break out our shorts, tank tops, and sundresses. Along with this fun and flirty wardrobe comes one of the most dreaded/loved times of the year: bathing suit season.

Although I love to lounge on the beach with a good book soaking up the sun, I hate having to find the right apparel to do it in. Those winter months of lack of sunlight and cold have left me feeling pale, fat, and downright moody. It is time to shed off those winter pounds, sweat pants and hit the gym in order to prepare myself for my three month bikini clad break from school.

I can't recall ever have met anyone who has honestly said they enjoyed shopping for bathing suits. Between the outrageous price tags and skimpy material, bathing suit shopping has become more of a chore than a spree. Cosmopolitan magazine recenlty published a list of tips for women of all shapes and sizes in order to help them find suits appropriate and flattering for their body types.

For women with a curvy butt, a bottom with a low rise cut and a few extra inches of support at the hips slims down a full figured bottom.

For busty women, thick straps and a wide band provide the bra like support that your body needs for water activities. For women with a smaller top, triangle tops with lots of detail or funky design draw the eye and are attention grabbing. Good for highlighting what you do have.

Finally, for women with a fuller middle, the classic empire waist and tankini style adds inches to your torso. Classic black will also help to make you look more slender.

Bathing suit season is one of the worst things to shop for but one of the best parts of summer so enjoy your body and have fun in the sun.

Taking Back the Night in Black T-shirts

The Feminist Collective of Towson University hosted its first ever Take Back the Night Rally Thursday April 16. The rally was used to raise awareness about sexual assault, rape, and domestic abuse. Over 50 men and women participated in the March across the Towson University campus and through the Towson Community.

Participants carried motivational signs and wore black Take Back the Night t-shirts. A candle light vigile along with inspriational chants like "Yes means Yes, No means No. Whatever we wear, Wherever we go!,"created a very powerful image and sent strong messages to anyone who witnessed the parade.

I was fortuanate enough to have had the opportunity to be part of the rally. Although not a member, I was proud to be included in the group who fought for such a cause that supported the end of violence against women.

For more information about the Feminist Collective of Towson or rape and domestic abuse and how to get help, please contact the Towson University Women's Center at (410) 704-2051.

Living History: Fashion through the Decades

Glamour magazine recently published a series of photos portraying popular, young actresses as some of history's most famous women fashion icons and fearless females.

These women, both fictional and real, ranging from Amelia Airheart to Carrie Bradshaw to Michelle Obama, have not only made a lasting and changing impression on society but have also led to a revolution in the fashion industry. These women have not only influenced and empowered the nation with their accomplishments and beliefs, but have also shaped the images of women throughout history with their sense of style.

I think it is important for women of all ages to see these photos. The actresses who have taken up the roles of these historic women are sending a powerful message. Hopefully, young girls will see these and take a special interest in what women have done in the past and can do in the future. Hopefully, older generations will recognize familiar faces and inform others about what they have lived through.

I think there are many more women who can be added to this list of fashionable, fearless historical figures. I hope that these women will serve as role models for generations to come and that the list will continue to grow through the decades.

For the rest of the images, please click on the link above.

Latest Trends a Fashion Don't for Men

The fashion industry and a focus on clothes in general are stereotypically considered a female dominated medium. It is no wonder that most men show little support or real interest in the latest trends or newest styles. However, there are some trends and beauty routines that many men acknowledge but do not understand.

Glamour Magazine asked several men what fashion practices they just couldn't get after viewing the creations from New York's famous Fashion Week. Some of the Spring trends listed included futuristic tin foil and shiny leather slacks and sundresses, 80's inspired shoulder pads and colors, cartoon inspired patterns, and animal like seperates. Although I have to say that some of this spring's trends are not something I would wear on any basis, I do recognize the artistic value and craftsmanship incorporated into each piece.

There are some mens' fashion faux pas that I just don't understand, like overly baggy jeans with visible boxer shorts, but fashion is open to interpretation by each individual. I guess fashion will just have to be added to the list of debates in the battle between the sexes.

Sex and Fashion Sparks Controversy in Today's Media

The Italian clothes line, Relish, is making headlines with its controversial new ad campaign featuring male Rio cops molesting women dressed in the labels latest styles. The ads have been considered to racy for audiences and officials have ordered that the billboards be removed.

From a feminists point of view, although I agree that these ads are promoting violence against women and sexism I do not think that these ads in particular are any different than most ads seen in today's media. Some ads, especially fashion related, can be considered almost pornagraphic. At least in the ad by Relish the women are fully clothed. I think that the Relish ad is doing exactly what a good ad is designed to do, appeal to a particular audience and catch the eye. I do not neccessarily think that the Relish line is geting the right message across concerning their line but they are certainly getting the desired publicity effect the ad was intended for.

Saving money while staying Chic

As college students, we hardly have enough money to pay for textbooks and tuition let alone splurging on shopping sprees. Today's economy is suffering and poor students are not the only ones feeling hopeless with empty pockets. Some fashion designers have recognized the economic crisis and have made it possible for everyone to look hot without putting themselves in debt. Department stores have begun carrying famous name brands for affordable prices like Vera Wang for Kohls, Alexander McQueen for Target, and Matthew Williamson for H&M.

Another way to save money is to go vintage. Take a trip down to the basement or up to the attic and check out some of the clothes your mom and dad used to wear. I wouldn't risk borrowing an entire ensemble because you might come out looking like Madonna or Kevin Bacon, but a bold blazer and funky bangles in moderation can add new edge to a recycled outfit.