Sunday, October 5, 2025
Founded in 1997 by Michael Sears and Hushidar “Hushi” Mortezaie, the revolutionary fashion label Michael and Hushi, seamlessly-bridged Western clubwear and Middle Eastern motifs in their designs. Their diverse journeys created a unique aesthetic that challenged conventional fashion norms. Sears was inspired by the vibrant colors and flair of his hometown of Las Vegas and Mortezaie, channeling his Iranian...
Founded in 1906 by Alfred Van Cleef and Estelle Arpels, Van Cleef and Arpels came to be one of the most iconic names in luxury jewelry. The brand’s original location still remains at 22 Place Vendôme in Paris and reflects the brand's dedication to luxury and craftsmanship. Both founders came from families with a deep-rooted foundation in jewelry making,...
The fundamental phrase of a winter dress code implies that there is a standard of style that we have to abide by, but that is simply not true. There are no rules to fashion, let alone a dress code. With the winter chill creeping in, here are some tips for not sacrificing warmth and style this winter.  If skirts and...
VAIN is here in collaboration with The Highlander to forecast some of the hottest trends for the 2024 season. Rockstar Made A trend that is gaining momentum is “indie sleaze:” a grimy, grunge aesthetic born from the early 2000s era. One can think of it as an overly exposed film picture in a bathroom, a pile of cigarette butts in a...
For many, being represented in the media is one of the most liberating feelings. This is especially true for minorities who have fewer opportunities to feel seen or heard. Inclusivity, if done right, is beneficial, but when done wrong, it is detrimental.  The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show was iconic. Everyone would gather around the TV and marvel at the Angels...
Critics argue that fashion is fundamentally utilitarian — a means of covering the body for protection and modesty. In their eyes, the practicality of clothing overshadows any artistic intent. This perspective contends that, while certain designers may infuse creativity into their work, the primary purpose of fashion is to serve basic needs. Some even argue that labeling fashion as art...
Growing up as an Asian woman in a predominantly white area, the alienation was subtle but aggressive. For the first seventeen years of my life, I attempted to hide myself through the clothes I wore. I thought if I dressed in ways that hid my body, I could hide from criticism and prying eyes.  College, for many, is the first...
The team at Vain led by Austin Laniyi worked tirelessly throughout the summer to organize their fashion show. Their hard work is clearly visible as the runway show feels like an upscale event that came straight out of New York Fashion Week. The room was packed with every seat being occupied by an eager UCR student or a Southern...
Welcome to the world of fashion and self-expression with Vain UCR! In an exclusive interview with Austin Laniyi, the club’s president and upcoming fourth-year student at UCR, The Highlander delves into the topic of summer fashion. Alongside his involvement in UCR club’s soccer and his passion for anime, manga and fashion, Austin founded Vain UCR in the fall quarter...
Harry Styles caused a sensation in 2020 when he appeared on the cover of Vogue wearing a Gucci lace-trimmed white dress. The magazine was filled with plenty of other pictures of Styles wearing various kinds of dresses and skirts. It immediately led to a flood of controversy, with some people complaining that men were becoming less masculine while others...