In 2020, I’ve noticed clothing hitting the runways becoming more flexible, sporty, and very “utility” like. The clothing mimics something a character of a science fiction movie or video game would wear. Womenswear specifically is becoming more silhouette focused featuring designs that enhance the curves of the body such as a corset design. Designs are very simple and geometric but include details such as utility pockets, chains, rings and detachable straps. This trend appeared around the mid 2010’s but advanced as we headed into the 20’s.

A great example of this trend would be Dior’s Pre-Fall collection. In 2019, Dior collaborated with artist Hajime Sorayama to create a men’s collection that would include different masculine pieces described as “futuristic.” This collaboration included pieces such as shirts and shoes that feature robots with and natural cherry blossoms, designs that enhance the male body and accessories with metallic colors.

Dior Models

Above is pictured some of the Dior Fall 2019 Men’s collection

Dior Bag

This bag is also part of the collection. It is made from metal. The accessories are also metallic with a cyber/robotic style to them.

Not only is this trend present in fashion but we can see it in music and technology as well. In November 2019, Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, came out with the concept of the cyber truck. The design of the automobile itself as the name suggests is very futuristic, minimal and advanced. The car almost looks as if It was fake or a prop out of a science fiction movie. It is definitely very different in design from the average American pick up truck. The car just like the new clothing trends emerging, are more focused on simplicity, metallic colors and functionality challenging what is normal. I personally am very excited to see the outcome of this trend in this decade.

Cybertruck

Above is a picture of the cyber truck rumored to appear in late 2021.

Phone calls and video calls usage have risen since in person contact is limited. With these tips, I can help you make your next phone or video call a success!

1. Each video call, or phone call, should open with a proper greeting. Especially, if it is someone such as your professor or boss. Saying “Hello” is always the perfect way to start any conversation.
2. After saying “Hello”, ask the person “How are you?” They will appreciate you taking the time to know their current status before jumping straight into the conversation. Also, by doing this you are being considerate of the person’s time. This is a very important part of initiating a conversation. Usually in this stage of the conversation the person will let you know if it is a good time to talk before you proceed with a request.
3. Once you have greeted each other and know the person is available to talk, state the purpose of your call. You can say something such as, “I am calling to invite you to my party” or “I am calling because I was wondering if you can pet sit for me?”
4. State important details related to your purpose for calling. This helps the other person understand as to why you are calling.
5. End the conversation with a proper closing. Although there is nothing wrong with saying “bye!” sometimes it can leave a post awkwardness and can seem rushed. Try saying something such as “Thank you for your time, talk to you soon!” It all depends on the topic of the conversation as well.
6. Another part of ending a conversation that is not in person is knowing when to hang up. There can be some awkwardness when hanging up such as who should hang up first. My personal rule is: the one who calls should be the one who hangs up. I also have the 2 second rule, that is, after you have exchanged farewells, count to 2 then hang up.
7. In general, a conversation should be fair. Each person should be allowed to have their own time to talk. Do not talk over a person. Let them finish their sentence then respond. If you happen to accidently interrupt, apologize then let them finish.
8. For phone calls, sit up straight even if no one is watching. By doing this, you become more focused on the conversation, your tone changes and your voice is heard easily.
9. For video calls, record in a place that is well lit and has neutral tones. This helps so the audience is not distracted by what is going on behind you.
10. Be aware of your environment. Go to a place that is distraction free that won’t cause background noise. 

I hope with these tips you can make your next phone call or video call flow more naturally! 

To be clear, I wasn’t a “shopaholic” to the point I would max out my cards and got into debt (thank God), but I was a shopaholic in the sense that I would sometimes overspend on the things I wanted. Over the years as I’ve matured, I’ve come to develop some useful advice for myself when shopping and want to share it with you. I feel as consumers, we’ve all asked ourselves whether something is worth buying. Even more annoying, I feel we all have purchased something then later regretted it. If you’re like me, you probably have something in your closet you’ve never worn, and it has been sitting in your closet for weeks, months or even years. Don’t feel too bad. I feel we’ve all been a victim of impulse shopping at least once in our life.

Even if your shopping habits are good, this article still offers advice and can help with decision making. I wanted to write this article to help you save your money and keep your closet or home from flooding with too much or unnecessary items.  

First things first, consult your budget. A responsible shopper always makes sure they have enough before purchasing a product. If you decide to make a purchase on a credit card, make sure you will set aside enough to be able to pay it back in the future.

Now that we got an idea of your budget, I’ve come up with some questions you can ask yourself before making a purchase.

1. Do I really need it?

Although the item sparks joy at first glance, you probably already have something similar or enough of it at home such as shirts, shoes or jewelry. Do you really need another?

2. Can I see myself using this item for 3-5 years or more?

Be honest with yourself. If you don’t see yourself having this item for a long time, its probably not worth it. Also remember, trends come and go quick.

3. Am I buying it just because it is on sale?

Who can resist a sale? There is nothing wrong with buying a discounted item. Even if you think you are getting an amazing deal, ask yourself: am I only buying it because its discounted? If it wasn’t on sale would you still want it?

4. Does this item compliment any other pieces in your home or wardrobe?

If the item does not, it’s probably best not to purchase it. It will not match your style or disrupt a certain theme in your home.

5. Is it worth it?

 Even the littlest bit of doubt in the moment is a good chance you will probably regret buying it. From my experience, it is best to save your money. There is always something better. Another way to look at it is: would you rather have your money or something new?

These questions can apply to any purchase. Don’t get me wrong, I am a strong believer in self-care, and understand buying yourself something nice can be therapeutic. I believe a person should treat themselves every now and them if the budget allows. Try asking yourself these questions next time you shop, and I guarantee you will notice a difference.