This article explores the personal impact of mispronounced names, using the author’s own experience as a point of reference. It highlights how name mispronunciation can be a form of microaggression, reflecting a larger societal issue of code-switching and the pressure to conform to dominant cultural norms. The author shares her father’s story of choosing a more ‘white-sounding’ name to avoid discrimination and how this decision ultimately affected her own sense of identity.
This piece explores the author’s personal experience with age-related memory loss and how it prompts a reflection on authenticity and accepting the realities of ageing. The author uses a familiar encounter with a stranger to delve into the complexities of memory, identity, and the societal pressures associated with ageing.
This letter explores the complexities of lesbian identity, addressing the internalized homophobia and anxieties surrounding the word ‘lesbian.’ It encourages embracing fluidity in sexuality and celebrating the joy of connection within the queer community.
This article explores the evolving use of the word ‘lesbian’ within the LGBTQ+ community. It examines the historical and contemporary connotations, the impact of misappropriation and over-sexualization, and how individuals are reclaiming the term. The article also discusses the rise of ‘sapphic’ as an alternative identity and the importance of inclusive language and representation.
TernoCon 2024, themed “KKK: Kasarinlan, Kultura, Kasuotan,” brought together three renowned Filipino fashion designers to celebrate the country’s independence and showcase the beauty of traditional garments. The event, held at the Museo Del Galeon in SM Mall of Asia, featured collections that paid tribute to national heroes, symbols, and regional heritage.
London’s Saatchi Gallery showcases the evolution of fashion photography in its summer exhibition, ‘Beyond Fashion.’ The exhibition features works from nearly 50 photographers, spanning from the 1980s to the present day. It explores fashion photography’s shift from product presentation to artistic expression, showcasing themes of beauty, identity, and gender. One of the exhibition’s highlights is ‘Under Your Smell,’ an immersive installation by Swiss university students that interprets Jean Paul Gaultier perfumes through fabric prints. Paris-based photographer Jonathan de Villiers also presents his work, which challenges industry norms by juxtaposing luxury jewelry with everyday scenes. ‘Beyond Fashion’ celebrates the transformation of fashion photography into a captivating visual language and runs until September 8, 2024.
Growing up in a multicultural environment, children often face questions about their heritage and identity. This article explores the complexities and nuances of raising children in environments where different cultures intersect. The author discusses the importance of preserving one’s heritage while fostering open-mindedness and embracing diversity. The article highlights the need for dialogue, understanding, and shared experiences to create a sense of belonging for children.
For members of the LGBTQ+ community, coming out is a deeply personal and challenging yet liberating journey toward self-acceptance and authenticity. Amid societal and familial expectations, individuals navigate the complexities of suppressing their true identities or living in hetero relationships to conform to societal norms. The act of coming out, whether gradual or sudden, often involves self-acceptance, connecting with supportive LGBTQ+ organizations, and preparing for potential questions or negativity. While coming out can be an ongoing process in a heteronormative society, it is essential for protecting individuals’ psychological health and empowering them to live authentically.
In a candid interview with Rolling Stone, Grammy-winning artist Billie Eilish opened up about her evolving beauty looks and the personal journey they reflect. Eilish’s iconic blonde hair, debuted at the 2021 Met Gala, led to an ‘identity crisis’ as she felt disconnected from her true self. Despite the glamorous appeal of the look, it represented a departure from her authentic style. Her brother and collaborator, Finneas O’Connell, described the blonde transformation as a ‘coping mechanism’ for Eilish’s sophomore album, ‘Happier Than Ever.’ The artist’s social media reveal of her icy blonde locks in March 2021 garnered widespread attention, demonstrating the transformative power of her beauty choices.
Billie Eilish has revealed that her upcoming album helped her rediscover her true self. In a recent interview, the Grammy-winning artist said the album feels like a return to her first one, before the whirlwind of fame. Eilish explained that her breakout 2019 album was a time of both joy and confusion, and she has been searching for her old self ever since. The album is a collaboration with her brother, Finneas O’Connell, and explores themes of growth and identity. Eilish also shared her reasoning for not releasing any singles ahead of the album’s release on May 17.
