By: Alexis Guerra
Like of the Week: Retailers Selflessly Donate after Japan’s Earthquake and Tsunami Crisis Hits
The trendy clothing store, UniQlo, is one of Japan’s largest retail shops and so when the unfortunate tragedy of March 11th’s devastatin
g tsunami struck, not only was company founder and billionaire, Tadashi Yanai, eager to donate 1 billion yen (equaling out to over $12 million in American dollars) of his own money to aid the victims and survivors, but the corporation even delivered more than 3,000,000 pairs of thermal underwear, as well as coats, jeans and other attire to those in need.
Through one of recent history’s most trying times, many have come forward to raise money and awareness in the wake of this catastrophic event. Lady Gaga has even posted a link on her website urging fans to purchase “We Pray for Japan” wristbands at $5.00 each, with all proceeds going to the Japan relief efforts. In only two days $250 thousand dollars were raised, proving that even pop stars can exhibit positive power in times of need.
Other clothing brands have also quickly jumped into the rescue, with H&M providing the Japanese Red Cross with over 100,000 garments to distribute throughout Japan to help those who have nothing left, giving some hope and comfort to those who have endured these unspeakable tragedies. Even popular clothing store, Forever 21 jumped on bandwagon, when on March 18th, they dedicated an entire day to aiding the American Red Cross’ Tsunami and Earthquake relief by donating EVERY single dollar from all online purchases to the charity.
These selfless acts just go to show that even in fashion, compassion can still shine through. If you’re looking to find more ways to help, click on the below:
Dislike of the Week: A Boot That Can Poke Your Eye Out…
I’m a firm believer in not wearing anything that you can impale yourself or others with, now that’s juuust me and I may be alone in this, but I’m preeeetty sure that these shoes would fall under that category.
They’re perplexing to say the least, more than a tad freakish and overall just plain bizarre, but it seems that the Mexican culture has embraced this odd shoe trend, otherwise known as bota vaqueras exoticas.
Though the origin of these boots is debatable, some claim it was in the small community of Zaragoza de Solís, others beg to differ and affirm it was the people of Matehuala who began this strange shoe craze, the first overall reaction by many is, understandably, shock. Still, wearers of this queer fad just seem to find new ways to embellish and emblazon their kicks.
In Matehuala, there is even a contest for the most ornately designed and lengthiest pair of pointed boots, with some boots extending onward more than five feet long! They are often adorned with glitter, mirrors, sequins and colorful appliqués (because, clearly, they’re JUST not eye-catching enough I would imagine…).
Other popular contests among these shoe enthusiasts are elaborate dance competitions where strenuous dance routines are created and performed. Now, is it just me, or does that just seem like a lawsuit waiting to happen…one wrong move, a quick twist of the heel, an agonizing topple forward and (gasp, crash, NO!)– Juan’s lost an eye!!!
Honestly, am I alone on this one? Anyone? Anyone?
Is there anyone else out there who might also be thinking that this is a silent killer disguised as a shoe?!
I can’t say I’m on board with this trend, but apparently within these Mexican areas, it’s true what they say…[Shoe] size does matter.
