Although the concept of material literacy has slowly begun to gain traction over the past few years, it’s hard to find a unified definition for the idea. In my view, material literacy is essentially the ability to identify the composition of textiles and other material goods like paper, understand their development and interpret their cultural and historical significance.
Thrifting has boomed in popularity over the last few years — and for good reason. Secondhand shopping tends to be cheaper and is more sustainable than fast fashion. Plus, it’s so much more fun to craft a wardrobe all on your own when you don’t even know what you may find. However, I still have friends who don’t know where to start when it comes to thrifting. True, there are tons of guides online to get started with thrifting, but few are dedicated to procuring authentic vintage items.
Lately, though, I’ve seen conversations that Halloween is becoming increasingly polarized. While some people argue that Halloween has become too frightening for children, others have been arguing that the rise of sexy or comical costumes has diluted the spookiness of Halloween. All this debate has made me curious: Why did we start wearing costumes in the first place, and how did “sexy” costumes become the norm?
This time last year, I shared my recommendations for the most fun and flirty solo Halloween costumes for vintage fashion and media lovers. This year, I’m back with a twist: group costumes. While solo costumes are sometimes the most iconic, it can be fun to participate in a group costume. If you are lucky enough to have friends or a partner who have the same old-fashioned interests as you — or are generous enough to indulge your nerdy interests — Halloween is a perfect time to celebrate together.
Dressing vintage is not about pandering to the fantasies of racists and misogynists who think women belong in the kitchen and in heels. It’s about choosing to wear items that were once a method of subjugation and willingly making them our own. It’s about seeing the objective beauty in the fashions of yesterday and aligning that with our values of today. So how do we make sure our clothing is saying what we want it to say? How do we prevent others from taking our style at face value, particularly when there are many vintage wearers who want you to do exactly that?
By Erica Schwartz, Lifestyle Editor
• September 25, 2025
College is always touted as a time to explore the world and learn who you are — that should include your wardrobe. For the first time, you have the freedom to choose what you want to wear. You are in a brand-new place with brand-new people and at least some financial freedom. Why waste that opportunity on chasing trends you don’t actually like just to feel part of something?
By Erica Schwartz, Lifestyle Editor
• September 11, 2025
If you don’t feel called to hop on trends, that’s okay. If you do feel an urge to hop on the new wave, that’s nothing to be ashamed about as long as you participate mindfully. By focusing on sourcing from vintage or at least shopping secondhand, you are getting the best of both worlds. You get to take part in the fun and social aspect of a trend without adding to the environmental burden overconsumption has on our planet.
Political journalism is a key tool in the fight against fascism. However, it is not the only tool. Any medium that allows citizens to utilize their First Amendment rights is important right now.
Staying true to your style doesn’t mean you can’t have fun this summer. By taking some extra steps this summer, you will ensure your own comfort in the heat and make sure that your vintage pieces last a lifetime.
So, take a deep breath and trust yourself. Personal style is always a work in progress — especially when you are diving into a whole new branch of fashion culture. Try the things you like and see what sticks.
