i feel like the photo to accompany this post should be a lot more intense and introspective-seeming but hey! mirrors are pretty introspective!

Betsey Johnson dress, gifted sweater, Okutani earmuffs, Goody barrettes, vintage jacket.

This is the outfit I wore when I found myself sitting front row next to Anna Wintour at the Band of Outsiders show. Yep, found, as though the moment "this is the end" rang out in the room set to Jim Morrison's voice I'd snapped out of myself for fifteen minutes til I stumbled upon a hollow body vaguely resembling someone familiar and decided to run away with it. I couldn't tell you what the clothes presented looked like. I couldn't tell you what anyone was wearing or what I had written in spontaneous texts to spontaneous people while waiting for the show to start (something about math class? What they had for lunch that day, maybe?) And I couldn't really even tell you what I was feeling. At that point in the day, in the week, in the Fashion Week and all those that came before, I think that if I were to respond truthfully to the many obligatory questions of how was I, it would've been "N/A." I felt like I was watching everything going on around me through a window. Usually I could see out of it but every once in a while I was forced to look at my own reflection, which was less fun.

I wanted to be mature and witty and polite and strike up a conversation with Anna Wintour, I really did. But like, it was the end of the day? And I was exhausted, in so many ways? And not prepared to enter a room as the last one to be seated and find out two seconds before sitting next to Anna Wintour that I was sitting next to Anna Wintour? And I was wearing the sweater Kathleen Hanna gave me and felt kind of in the middle of an overdramatic identity crisis, like I had no right to wear the sweater OR sit next to Anna Wintour? And when I did look around a bit, no one looked happy and it was kind of a huge downer? So I let myself be kind of shy and quiet that night, to join the rows of sullen-faced people who looked as though they secretly wanted to be at home with their pets wearing comfortable clothing and eating fattening food.

Anna Wintour was perfectly polite when we exchanged standard greetings and goodbyes. But it doesn’t matter how much you like or dislike Anna Wintour, even if you feel unfazed by her or her sunglasses or Vogue, even if you feel, as I did, like one of the only people in the room who isn’t after her job. You will feel intimidated. It is unavoidable.

Of course, it's more the idea of Anna Wintour than the person, who was just a lady with a bob in a sophisticated dress sitting with her daughter at work. But that's kind of what Fashion Week is, a lot of facades and all that. At this point it would be really helpful if that Doors song had a lyric mentioning smoke and mirrors or something, but it's mostly stuff about sex and a guy killing his dad, so, uh, nevermind.

Fashion Week is weird. It is very high schooly. Someone will take that and decide that it means Fashion Week highschooliness is getting me down hard without realizing how highschooly what they're doing is. I love fashion but it's disappointing when you have to sift through a lot of junk before you get to, like, the clothes, and the whole point of it all. It's more disappointing when the clothes aren't very interesting. Lately I've been looking to other places for a creative outlet and for inspiration. I miss following magazines and obsessively checking style.com the way I used to but something is different about it now. A year ago I got to go to Paris to interview John Galliano at Dior, and a couple weeks ago today he said he loved Hitler and got fired. Fashion photographs look more posed and the Rayanne Graffs I meet at school more inspiring. I only really miss being obsessed with fashion the way you miss any aspect of a former self, in a nostalgic way, not necessarily as part of a desire to go back. Now I'm more intrigued by mixing fashion with the other stuff I've been enjoying. What's that idea that one person had, about combining your ways of thinking so that you could hear a song as a color and taste a food as a pitch in a song? To me that's much more interesting than relating fashion to fashion, to like, combine mediums, and absorb as many songs and movies and stuff that I can and let all the references intertwine until it's something that makes sense to me. I guess that's what my moodboards are, and outfits are a way to translate it so it feels like part of my identity.

And it's nice to not always share all of that. It's nice to keep some things to myself. It's nice to go to school events and V-Day in the church basement and start a band and make collages and zines and mixtapes and keep a diary and write love letters and snail mail.

I guess the Anna Wintour thing just made a lot of that much more obvious. It wasn't until I got home that I realized how vast the difference is, and how one side of it is nicer to just visit every once in a while, get out of it what I get out of it, ignore or laugh at the rest, and bring the enjoyable stuff back home to add to my collection of all that stuff I'm trying to absorb.

That fell apart into being really train-of-thought, but once I used the "reflection" metaphor in the first paragraph I started feeling really ridiculous and overly serious. None of this was supposed to dramatically hint at anything, other than maybe that my blog is turning away from fashion a little, naturally. How depressing would it be if I was that obsessed with only fashion for three years? That's how old my blog will be in a few days. Strange.

212 comments:

1 – 200 of 212   Newer›   Newest»
Anonymous said...

Everything in time becomes a drag I fear... With me it was never fashion, even when I do have a fashion blog. I loved (and still love i guess) books and writing. But somehow, authors today are more concerned with the way they say things than what is actually being written.. There is an obsession with wittiness. The characters and the plots don't have much dimension anymore and it sucks.

So I guess we need to create our own meaning. Filter everything and keep our eyes peeled for the good ones. Compare them, create new threads, and maybe come up with something fresh.

garakami said...

Tavi, I swear to God that when you apply to college, all you have to do is look at this post, and write about it for your college essay. I can't imagine how great an essay of this magnitude, finding your self and thinking about other things just by sitting next to one person.

Imagine how fantastic that would be if the person who would read this essay is also a fashion nerd. Oh yeah, that's an EPIC win!

Unknown said...

I guess in the end, fashion is for fun. Not that there's anything wrong with that. It should be fun.

ZHENYA ZHURAVLYOVA said...

interesting post!

Madeline Quaint said...

Just live! :) The best choice ever.

kai said...

You have more of a career in writing -- particularly in writing about fashion -- than many people achieve in years of attempting a certain profession. And you've done it, as far as I can see, out of little more than sheer love and passion.

Whatever your passion is, follow that. I know this post wasn't looking for advice. It simply sounds like your passion is evolving -- growing, rather than diminishing. Expanding to include and merge new things, not coming to exclude something you were once obsessed with. And that's actually a very interesting process to embark upon. You have a remarkable handle on yourself. Personally I'm quite curious to see everything you choose to blog about. Whether it's fashion-related or not, you have a sparkling perspective and a clear voice.

A said...

You're evolving, naturally. Take it all with you, and you're right, don't share it all. You ingest and analyze everything in a very unique and advanced way; not a lot of people even at age 20 or 30 even comprehend what you realized for yourself and articulated in this post. If your take on the rest of the creative world is as apt as your take on fashion and the immaturity and pretension of the adult world, then I can't wait to see what you share.

Just don't stop blogging... it's amazing to go back to a post like this months and years later and see how far you've come.

Daily Sass said...

I'm 18 years old and I feel like I've come to a simmilar place.
I love fashion but around 16 I realized thats not what I want to do with my life per say
and than with my later found love of photography and writing I found myself overwhelmed. I loved it all so much that I almost just wanted to absorb EVERYTHING but thats nearly impossible.
I guess what I'm trying to say is your interests with everything especially obsessions will ebb and flow and you'll take a little part of everything as you continue on this path

I hope I'm making sense

Tami Acena said...

I look forward to reading about this beautiful new girl you speak of. She seems to be growing more interesting than ever. More silent, more sure and more inspiring.

Have a good one, Tavi. Whoever you choose to become, I wish you happiness. Cheers!

Anonymous said...

I LOVE IT. I love you. :D You are a self-professed ahmazing teen who has a fashion sense like...Hmmn..YOU! You are the best! Agreed?
Keep it up!

Anonymous said...

www.snippetsandbits.blogspot.com
Thanks!

sarah said...

"Fashion photographs look more posed and the Rayanne Graffs I meet at school more inspiring."

you write wonderfully, girl.
keep it up, up, up!

Anonymous said...

Dont be afraid of change, fashion, or even boringness, other days are other days and I'm sure everything will turn out perfect, like fashion itself, stitched together with designers, achievers and percievers. Its one hell of a ride. BTW Anna Wintour? Jealous!!!

Unknown said...

Can you imagine how boring your life could be if you found your one true passion at age 12? I love your blog and I have loved reading your thoughts about fashion, but mostly I have just loved reading your thoughts. Period. And sometimes I think it's okay to keep those thoughts to yourself...in fact, it's important.

Be a high schooler. Be a kid. Have your first boyfriend or girlfriend and fall in love with art history one day and English the next and geology after that. Feel stupid about school dances but go anyway. Find an incredible group of friends who know everything about where you came from and who love you completely. Graduate, go to college (or not), study hard, feel so full of knowledge that it hurts, smoke weed, drink too much, graduate with honors, come home and spend the year unemployed. Freak out, have 100 existential crises, do whatever the hell you want with your time.

Or don't do any of that. Be you. The good news is that you are so intelligent and introspective that whatever happens, none of it will be a waste.

I enjoyed your entry.

Unknown said...

This is so deep compared to most fashion blogs where they dress up and take pictures and wish they were famous. fashion doesn't have to be like that and you can change it to mix with other things, to make it fun for you regardless of what other people think. It's obvious that you have something other people don't have, otherwise how would you get all of these opportunities and all this world wide fame? Maybe you could use those to do something else still fashion related but not exactly the same, like writing about fashion.

Or maybe I'm just talking a load of rubbish.

Anyway, good luck with whatever you decide to do. And happy birthday to your blog!

www.styleisalwaysfashionable.blogspot.com

Laura. said...

I would have felt the same sat next to anna, although I wouldn't mind her job. haha

A Forte For Fashion

Ella B said...

Interests change. And that's ok.
Fashion and op shopping is best enjoyed with life.
In the context of friends,theatre and cups of tea.
I don't like to dress up just so I can sit at home and take photos.

I enjoy your blog. Keep it up :)

favio said...

love

Alexi Frest said...

I have a strong dislike against Anna Wintour - she could and should use all her influence to say no to cruelty against animals and wearing fur. Instead, she does not care two hoots. She lost all my respect for this one.

thwany said...

touche. nice post.

Grumpy but sweet said...

That was so beautifully expressed. I have a feeling that you will shine no matter what you put your hand to. You have great passion. Great light. Great insight. :)

I studied english lit in university and it took me 3 years after graduating to be able to love reading again. That love of words and books came back and with even greater joy because I thought I'd lost it. It is not who I am but part of who I am.

I think your fashion obsession and insight will always be there, but it will transform into something new... something better.

You are awesome. I hope you know.

jessica january said...

i think it's so great that you're so honest about this kind of stuff. i'm sure a lot of people in the industry probably feel the same way, but are trained to think another way, so they just do. your writing is great.


january, x
jessicajanuary.com

Juliet Sulejmani said...

I envy you Tavi G! Anna is my queen. I would love love love to find myself in her presence.

Love your blog!

xxx

http://thejulietreport.blogspot.com/

Unknown said...

Great post Tavi! You've written down so many things a lot of bloggers feel but don't have the courage to say out loud. I agree with you; fashion is something that should be experienced as something that adds to your everyday life, not something that only makes you experience the rest of life less. I think it's sad how so many people are looking more and more like each other instead of making fashion an outlet of their creativity. There are so many copycats out there, glad you're not one of them. :)

Lia said...

I agree! fashion isnt what it used to be.great post!

xoxo
Glass of Fashion

anaflesh said...

loved this post, tavi
it's taken me back to my own high school self
and the summer feeling in spring
and growing up
and all that
thanks
:)

The Fancy Teacup said...

You are such a doll! I love how the earmuffs and the applique on the Betsey Johnson dress make a perfect pair.

Tavi, you are a brilliant writer. I can't imagine the intimidation it feels to be sitting next to Anna Wintour.

www.TheFancyTeacup.com
much love.

Katherine said...

Incredible post! I can imagine that after being caught up in the whirlwind of fashion shows and seeing the way some people really are that it loses some of its intrigue-- no harm in changing perspectives and adding in other things!
La Petite Marmoset

RA said...

pretty honest post :)

Anonymous said...

Perfect post.

YEYE STYLE BLOG said...

I read this post as I was eating my morning cereal and this post represents how I felt when I was in my last year of fashion design school. Fashion is about having fun, some people just don't see that anymore.

Thank you for putting that into words.

-Izzy

:)

Anonymous said...

I don't enjoy fashion too much. I've never once been very good at it. Can barely even dress myself.
Yet I still read every single post you put on here. There is a reason for that...your talent lies with your writing.
If you at such a young are so amazing at writing now then imagine what you could become in the future?
You have so much growing to do and things will change a thousand times before you make it anywhere. Just sit back and enjoy the ride!

Caddy said...

Thank you for writing this post.

I to feel somewhat similar and appreciate how you put into words your diversification of interests. I stated really getting into fashion as a freshman at university. I loved it and experimented with it and read blogs somewhat obsessively and even learned how to sew. But four years later I've just graduated and am realizing that my interests are drifting a bit more towards interior design and other things. I felt a bit down finding out that my interest in fashion seems a bit less but that's just the way it is. I have to be honest with myself.

Cait said...

Eventually, you will find something that clicks. Even though fashion can be posed and forced, you can still find aspects to love!
And its true, about being able to like more than one thng! Years ago, I hated writing! But now I love to keep a small journal with me in case I have a really neat thought.
You are a talented girl, keep up with that!
Oh, and synesthesia- the colors/sounds/sights thing :)
Maybe read A Mango-Shaped Space by Wendy Mass?
The main character is a synesthete :)

Jessie said...

such a grandma esque look, but certainly one you can rock. your posts are always so insightful.

http://wordbyjessie.com

Unknown said...

finally! I was feeling sortof inferior that you have been able to hold on to your interest in fashion *for* three years. I don't think I've ever been so strongly obsessed with anything so consistently.

From my personal experience, whenever i'm no longer interested in something or think I no longer like something, it's because I haven't been exposed to it in a while. It can be anything from ceramics to ice cream to photography to listening to an old favorite band. I forget how satisfied and happy they made me simply because I forget what it feels like to do said stuff.

but it's also good to take breaks. nothing ensures a quicker death of an obsession than trying to obsess over it.

But for my own selfish reasons, I do hope you never leave fashion.

Anonymous said...

I am excited to see where you go naturally after fashion. This is a beautiful post, and you made it so clear why not everyone is into fashion...because it can be so highschoolly. I think as long as you can keep your perspective and keep it fun and interesting, fashion can be a wonderful part of life. You are so wise!

Unknown said...

Hey, I stayed in a room just like that at the Hudson. I like the yellow escalator.

Katherine said...

Tavi: The realest girl in fashion.

I.M. said...

you are so alive!

Lydia Armstrong said...

So write about what you ARE obsessed with. Style blogs are fun, and fashion should be fun, but if you're kinda over it, then well, you're kinda over it. And who knows, you might come back to it. You might just be a little oversaturated right now.

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Syazwi Aljabri said...

Just one thing, believe in yourself.

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

You know, we all have phases. Life is a phase.

I've had my share of phases.
Goth phase, tutu phase, red phase, "im too good" phase, "ima deep dark rebel" phase, "i dont really care" phase, "im not in a phase" phase and plenty others.
The phases all kind of reflected in my style in fashion, and I wonder can fashion really be a phase? Will I ever get bored of it? That seems impossible right now. But who knows? maybe a few years in the past you were thinking the same.
Maybe right now you are over it. And it doen't really matter because we all know that you have so much more than only style to share with us. What ever you do, we are still listening.

Your friendly Blogger,
Korlei

From (my blog)>

Michelle Lee said...

wow this post was so real
just go with where your heart takes you
love your blog and posts for your style :)


http://pinklemonincrystal.blogspot.com

Vivi said...

awEsOme post Tavi!!!!
I hear you one hundred percent & I agree with everything you say!!!!!
I have been asking myself similar questions lately
x well done & keep it up x

hugs
vivI.Iviv
www.lovexevol.blogspot.com

Freedom_Spark said...

I'm glad you want to branch out from fashion slightly, you are an amazingly creative person and it would be foolish to limit yourself! Although it has many attributes fashion in my opnion is a very shallow industry, don't be afraid to embrace something deeper, you're talented enough to create something amazing and much more influential than what are essentially just clothes.

S. Alice said...

The Feminist sweater!
And yes, after a while, you do begin to see the drear side of things. Unfortunate, isn't it?

blue roses said...

after watching "the september issue" i, surely naively, told myself i could never be intimidated by someone such as anna, because as much as she is a living icon, she is also, at the foundation, another human being. that being said, my reactions would probably have mirrored yours exactly.

http://dallianceswithsuitsandskirts.blogspot.com/

blue roses said...

that sensation you speak of....

synesthesia.

you do have lovely introspection, and an acute sense of words. as the french say, courage!

http://dallianceswithsuitsandskirts.blogspot.com/

the writer. said...

Yeah, you're right. Only talking and thinking about Fashion sucks. That's how it is. I love your blog not because you've got a "cool style" - that's how teenagers call it - or something in that way, I like it because you really have a talent to write. It may sound weird but some people can write sentences and those sentences sound like music to me. Whatever! You're great!

Sam | ashore said...

Tavi, this reminded me so much of the movie, Adaption. (even the reflective nature of your voice - it's worthy of a voice over)

It's hard have an appetite for something that feels insatiable. and then get your fill. You don't so much miss the thing - but you miss the feeling of being passionate.

I hope you keep exploring - and I know you'll produce something new.

Madeleine said...

Interesting post. I have not followed your blog so long, but you got a good insight in your own life and thoughts, and that is good. It will be a good help for you through this.

I know how you feel btw, when I was young 11-12ish, I found my first passion, poetry. I did write every day, even on the nights, writing poetry and loved it so much. Then, after a year, I stopped, I could not feel same passion for it again. Instead I got a passion for painting, singing, photography, and most recently fashion. I go back to poetry now and then though. I find a short period when the passion is there again, because in the end, that is my number one way of selfexpression. But I only do that when I feel for it, and most importantly. I only do it for me.

Hope my story helps you. //Madeleine

Debby Ruth said...

I wanted to be in the music business more than anything. I LOVE music and it stirs my soul. But when I started in the actual industry I found it nearly killed my passion. In retrospect I was fortunate to have a career diversion. Be true to your heart and keep sharing. Thanks for your honesty.

CHIUL said...

girl, how do you do it?! sorry it's just I've been reading your blog and you seem to be meeting like the most important people in fashion. o.o you're only 14?! sorry I'm just so confused, do you network a lot? I'm 18, I study fashion and I've never been to a single catwalk show, haha! do you just have a real passion for it, do people discover your blog? It's just wow, NEXT to Anna Wintour, front row!!! :O that's V.I.P that is, and you're just this 14 year old blogger! (not offending you, I love your blog, but you know what I mean) just curious ~

Sascha said...

Great post, Tavi! I know what you mean - I've only seen Anna twice on Milan fashion week, but she just has this presence.

hannbokhi said...

Umm... Maybey you should have a rest, don't doing things connected with fashion: hanging out with friends, reading etc.? After the rest, I supposed you'll be interest in fashion as you was 2,3 years ago.


http://ilovestrawberryfields.blogspot.com/

CHIUL said...

and the whole fashion being high schooley thing, like that guy said in Little Miss Sunshine 'you do what you love, and fuck the rest.' :) Alexander Mcqueen once said "Most people in fashion circles never have anything interesting to say,I design fashion, I don't have to fucking live it aswell." :) so don't worry about the sily foofoo's who make you think 'wow this industry is so superficial', because you Tivi, are the real article.~

Frockspotter said...

We all have low points, and times when inspiration and exitement are hard to find. The fashion industry doesn't have to be superficial -- you are perhaps one of the few people who make fashion fun without making fun of it!

I don't understand how you're feeling but I'd give anything to have talent like you :)

Thanks for the great post, I'd like to think maybe I'll be exchanging pleasantries with Anna Wintour someday!


www.frockspotter.blogspot.com

Unknown said...

I like to think that fashion isn't superficial, and the people involved in it are all intelligent and amazing but that's just not the truth. Up until his 'I love Hitler' incident, I idolized John Galliano and thought he was like...a Design God or something. A lot of times I feel inferior because I just don't have that level of expertise or the resources that a lot of people in fashion have...but then I realize that I have my integrity and opinion and I go back to listening to my deluxe edition Sweeney Todd CD and think about the latest Miu Miu collection without thought-censoring.

Also, I like Anna Wintour...I do. But I would have done the same thing you did. Not because she's like a SUPERHERO or a GOD or whatever...because I might not have had anything to say to her.

Unknown said...

"But that's kind of what Fashion Week is, a lot of facades..."

Many facades and fascias, but that is what makes this industry so beautiful, and so terrible. Fashion is one type of media that allows you to escape the mundane by creating characters, moods, and impressions. It's a giant world of dress-up, make believe, and pretend. If you recognize this and disregard the petty, the cruel, and the insecure, you can ignore the terrible parts and embrace the beauty or absurdity of looks or collections that impact or leave an impression on you.

Unknown said...

http://mrsjuliajulia.blogspot.com/
wow!

Jamie, Shad, Shiloh, and Fifi said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Daxia said...

You are my role model.

walrus said...

if you need a change in creative outlet pace, try cooking. (i recomend desserts)it is really satisfying to have created something new and yummy. ;)

Road Dog Tales said...

Found your blog serendipitously through Elle Mag tweet. Cannot wait to read your first bestseller and the ones that will surely follow! I'm sure the first will be out in a couple of years or has it already been written?

Anonymous said...

I think that when you back away from looking at fashion as simply clothes and creations, you being to see the big picture of the fashion industry, and it loses some of its appeal. You can get caught up in the celebrity of it all and it becomes a media spectacle instead of a presentation of art. This world is becoming more and more obsessed with the star power of fashion as opposed to to the important part, which is the clothes.
Don't worry that you'll stop loving fashion. You clearly have a true appreciation for art of all kinds, and straying from fashion just means you're finding different medias to draw inspiration from. Fashion doesn't just mean the industry, it's what you see in the real world and I think being inspired by that is just as important as being inspired by the runway.

Clementines Today said...

"And it's nice to not always share all of that. It's nice to keep some things to myself. It's nice to go to school events and V-Day in the church basement and start a band and make collages and zines and mixtapes and keep a diary and write love letters and snail mail."

That's real life. I'm so happy for you, that you really really know that. It's easy to forget about what's real, but everyone feels it deep inside. It's just not the stuff of glossy magazines.
Real life: school events, V-day in church basements, keeping a diary, writing love letters and snail mail, feeling really grand when you've found a good book in the community library, secretly admiring the noble air and endearing gait of a classmate on the way to science class, thinking a lot about your grandma and giving your dad a hug ... that's real life. A lot of people forget or don't know about those things. Those of us who know - we're really lucky :)
You rock, girl. Keep growing. <3

Charlotte said...

I admire your blog so much:) your truly inspirtional:)) it would be an honour if you'd glance at my blog:
Http://CharlotteWears.blogspot.com/

Charlotte...

Jessica said...

I love the sweater. You look great. A really interesting post.

dassida.blogspot.com

Shelley Noble said...

These two lines:

"I felt like I was watching everything going on around me through a window. Usually I could see out of it but every once in a while I was forced to look at my own reflection, which was less fun."

and

"...to join the rows of sullen-faced people who looked as though they secretly wanted to be at home with their pets wearing comfortable clothing and eating fattening food."

"...even if you feel, as I did, like one of the only people in the room who isn’t after her job."

is why you are a force to be reckoned with.

A brilliant essay, my dear. Huge fan, no matter what you find interesting.

style meerkat said...

nice post. You look so awesome :D
love your outfit!

http://stylemeerkat.blogspot.com/

xxoxo

<333

Yajaira said...

love the outfit - cute
nice post.

Gale said...

I always thought of your blog as not about "fashion" which is artificial and fleeting, but rather about STYLE. I suspect getting sucked into "THEIR" world has left you sort of forgetting the style part as you were being pulled into the "fashion" part. Go back to your roots of being a "style rookie" which is what all your photos of your outfits and moodboards are about. If I wanted to read about fashion I'd go buy a Vogue magazine . . . if I want to read about your fun take on finding a style and reflecting on others styles I will come here (and I come here more then I pick up a Vogue magazine anymore).

Erica said...

It would be a lot easier not to evolve, or even easier to fall into the artificial attitude held high by some in the fashion industry.

It's really inspirational that you aren't taking the easy route.

- Erica

projectreveille.blogspot.com

Rossina Bossio said...

Everything that involves a group of human beings is very highschooly. We never really grow up. Even war is like watching bullies pick on those who are "weaker".

http://rossinabossio.com/

stephanie said...

IMHO all smart, creative people get bored focusing on just one genre, place, time, thing, whatever.

Personally, I thrive on change.
I've lived all over the country and worked in all sorts of creative industries - film, tv, documentary, music, publicity, theater, non-profits and currently style/fashion. Which I will surely tire of at some point.

The cool thing? It's all life getting lived. And life can be cyclical. Dipping your toes back into anything you've touched previously, with fresh knowledge and a fresh eye, renews stimulation and brings new life to previously discarded obsessions.

thosetricks.com

Denice Dir said...

Oh Ms. Tavi.... I've watched you lovingly over the years and treasured every inspired post. Your pic today said it all... And your writing brings me to tears.
Good luck on this fantastic journey that you've only just begun... But please please please allow us to keep track of you! Besos, my pretty!

DD

Www.myprettyclothing.com

The Foolish Aesthete said...

Love the eclectic mix!

http://thefoolishaesthete.blogspot.com

CARRIE said...

I follow a lot of fashion blogs and most of them I just scroll through and look at the pretty pictures and it's onto the next one...

Your blog I actually read. I read it because you're an insightful writer and I read it because you look at how style relates to what is important to you at the moment, not just what is the current industry standard. Style, of course, is not just about clothing and it's natural for interests to ebb and flow. Even if you lost all interest in "fashion", I doubt you could lose your style-- you have too much of it-- and I'd be equally interested to hear what you have to say about pretty much any subject so, please, keep writing!

NorwegianWood said...

I remember when I first started reading your blog, some friends and I were talking about it and one of them said "She is going to be the next Anna Wintour!" to which I replied " I don't think so...I think she's way too smart for fashion, she will evolve beyond it way before she's old enough to become an editor"

Looking back I feel that my comment was too limiting, and of course I don't believe everyone who works in fashion to be dumb (I'm still here doing it, right?!) but I think a better way to sum up my thoughts would be that you will not be the "next" anything...

you will be the "first" of something much better.

Lily said...

Best post in a while. This totally relates to my doubts about continuing fashion school...and weening my way into the industry...or trying something else?

lolitaslipstick said...

Hey tavi I'm so sorry to hear that you have grown out of fashion, while I understand what you are going through I think it's sad that you're turning your back on an industry that embraced you with open arms. Maybe you're too young to appreciate what was given to you, and hopefully you don't close doors with this post and regret your decision in the future. Best wishes, and the reason we all rooted for you is because you represented the average girl obsessed with fashion but could never get close enough and you did, and for that I will always be grateful to you.

Nine of Cups said...

girl, you've really hit the nail on the head. people forget about what's important and get wrapped up in fame and self-importance. the beautiful creativity comes from all the Rayanne Graffs of the world. you can still be into fashion, you're just remembering not to sell out. nobody should sell out!
plus, this is beautiful.

Brooke said...

You are my complete idol!!! An inspiration too- I strews a blog! Soo I just started blogging and I really want people to read my blog and leave comments on it!!! So if you would please go to thefashionfroggy.blogspot.com!! Thanks so much!!!:)

Anonymous said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

Tienes un estilo increible,unico,me encanta tu blog y tus fotos!!
Un beso!

Unknown said...

fashion for me has been a sort of forbidden fruit, tasted only later in life. never imagined i would tire of it! however, having been blogging and obsessing about clothes for over a year, i have occasional periods where the fruit tastes a little like....well....dust! so far, when i've felt this way, something thrilling comes along and refreshes my interest (see recent blog on THE GIRL WITH THE BUTTERFLY TATTOO)! but who knows if this will continue? also of course, when ones starts to be obliged to do something, instead of just doing it for fun, it becomes....well, less fun. yours, esme noir (http://esmenoir.com)

thea acierno said...

we keep revisting our history over and over again and its just going by so much faster. the future happens when you let it takes its natural course. do what makes you happy and you probably won't feel so stuck anymore. you're allower=d to grow up you know, by the time that happens we'll be in a completely different place. things are starting to change.

Your said...

Adorable Tavi, this is a case of not knowing your true worth in the biz. Consider the BoO's move to place you beside Anna as a prediction of your future. It's yours if you want it. BoO sees it. I see it. Take a break and do your own thing without regarding others. That was your original recipe for success and it should remain so.

Kate Seward said...

A few things:

1) So jealous that Kathleen Hanna gave you a sweater. How awesome!

2) Having your feelings about fashion change totally makes sense. Besides, it's fun to look at fashion from different perspectives, to see how it informs other things and is informed by other things.

3) Definitely start a band. I've been in two in my life (a long time ago) and it's awesome!

Anonymous said...

I agree that fashion can be very highschooly. But so can anything that's very competitive in life, it brings out the inner bitch in all of us :)
I love that you're looking into other things for inspiration. Good for you!

http://ggfashionista.com

heaven said...

YEAHHHH I REALLY UNDERSTAND WHAT U ARE SAYING BUT THE FASHION...HUUMM I GUESS I FEEL SOME DAYS LIKE YOU... YOU KNOW IM 15 I REALLY DONT KNOW WHAT I AM HAHAHA SOMETHING THAT I REALLY LOVE ARE THE JONAS BROTHERS... THEY HAVENT BEEN APEARING SO MUCH ON RADIO, TV, ETC, ETC BUT THE LAST WEEK I SAW NICK ON AMERICAN IDOL AND I WAS SO HAPPY!.. HAHA I REMEMBER THE FEELING YEAH YOU ARE SO RIGHT! YOU SHOULD GER AWAY OF THE THINGS YOU LIKE SO AFTER A WHILE YOU CAN SEE AND ENJOY THE MORE THAN BEFORE
THANKS!
PD: WARNING! IM A NEW READER!

Dakota said...

I feel sort of silly posting a comment after so many people have said pretty much the same thing, but seriously: I would read your blog if it was about wine tastings, or camping, or cat shows...

Sure, I love fashion, but your wit and your brilliant, observant writing are what make me such a fan. I bet you're sick of the fashion industry after the whirlwind tour you've had of it these past few years; even I get disillusioned by it a lot and I haven't had a fraction as much exposure to it as you have.

But if you really do start/have started a band, please please share it, I bet it's awesome : )

thatdamngreendress said...

hey, ultimately the thing that first drew you to fashion was the experience of colours and textures and associations, and playing with these (as they relate to your interests in music, or art, or culture, or some really nifty person you saw walking down the street). I think you'll be able to get past the whole 'fashion industry' thing that has drawn you into its vortex recently, to just be you!! And whatever you do that fashion, if not 'fashion' side, will be a part of your everyday perspective...

Ashley Sivil said...

Tavi, I really enjoyed this post because it reminded me of why I follow this blog in the first place: for your earnest, telling, and beautiful comments on the World in which you live.

Jody said...

This is really powerful. Boy, can you write! The honesty that comes out- I appreciate its rawness.

sockmonster said...

my dad told me once that when you feel un inspired and frustrated it means that you are are about to brake through to a new level in your work. and i think that any one would be shaken by sitting next to
anna wintour she is at the same time the most powerful woman in fashion and yet who would want to be her?

ana. said...

I don't know why these fashionhighschool people likes you, seriously. You are so much nicer than these guys. Advise, never grow up or smtng like that.

blahlah said...

more facets=more sparkle

you have greater perspective than most adults

Alisha! said...

You go grrl!

SMD said...

Time of great revelations. Gosh Tavi, it's so mature of you (I know everyone tells you that all the time) that you're able to see everything you do and look at it from a different perspective and learn about yourself that way. I always try to step back and remember that my world is not THE world, that being a teenager doesn't entitle me to be consumed with my own life, and you're just constantly doing that...it's amazing. I think the whole Anna Wintour experience is a real wake-up call. While Wintour is of course ridiculously accomplished and must be highly intimidating in person, how can someone devote their whole ENTIRE life to fashion? And not do anything else? Reminds me of the untouchable Vogue editor in The Devil Wears Prada, or even better, Wintour's own daughter in The September Issue who put things this way "I admire my mom, but I wouldn't want to devote my whole life to fashion in such a way that she does." I agree. I enjoy fashion, but it's not my one and only calling. I do other things. I dance. I do homework. I waste time on omegle telling stories to random strangers. I write snail mail to my penpals and my grandparents. And I try not to be an obnoxious teenager, because, you know, eventually we grow up and I don't want to be regretting any embarrassments I made when I was younger. It is quite obvious that people are constantly changing which is why I love your blog. We always realize things as we grow older that might not have been apparent to us before...Not to get all philosophical, but basically just keep doing what you're doing because your blog is the bomb.

Ravenal said...

Dear Tavi
Great post. Don't worry too much.
You are just evolving. And I think for the better. You always share the most wonderful thoughts.

You are a truly shiny person.

Lots of Love to you.

Various Projects said...

exactly.

Anonymous said...

This is all so meaningful and stuff that I don't think I have anythging important enogh to say about it. I got obsessed with fashion last summer and at first I cheacked style.com everyday. I used to look at all the collections. Now I have some other things I enjoy. Fashion is still at the top but I only cheak my fave designers collections. My Style.com visits are less frequent. I miss when fashion was new to me. Now it's just part of how I live.


http://bensstylecorner.blogspot.com/

Unknown said...

hmmm... you're growing up and spreading your creative wings, that's all. that's good. fashion IS facade. you're smart enough to see behind it and go deeper. deeper is funner.

the mixing of sensations is called synesthesia.

cheers.

alison ann said...

Personal evolution can be hard, but ever so valuable.
Take it in stride/pride.

The art of fashion would never survive if it were a solitary self referencing machine.

Looking elsewhere is wise and courageous in this world.
In all cases of our obsessions, my own being art, I find it is good to look outside of them once in a while. There is a whole world out there and it is very inspiring.

You are very talented at what you do, thank you for always sharing so much.

Claire said...

Lately I've been falling out of love with "fashion". I used to look at collections online and keep up with trends (ick), whereas now I couldn't care less. I'm more thinking of fashion as style, and falling in love more with art and different ideas of beauty.
Really great post, I love your writing. <3
Www.notimeforchitchat.blogspot.com

Nebris said...

Growing up is hell.

Growing up brilliantly precocious is a special hell.

Growing up brilliantly precocious and being an Internet celebrity is an existential form of hell.

And you seem to be dealing. =)

Ma'boo Naboo said...

Style Hookie!

Unknown said...

How depressing would it be if I was that obsessed with only fashion for three years
Yeah, but fashion is fickle so I think you're allowed to be too.

you could hear a song as a color and taste a food as a pitch in a song?
This is called synesthesia. Google it. I don't have it and don't know anyone who has it, but it sounds pretty cool.

Mitchie said...

Dye your hair a different color again. It will make you more creative because you have to create your outfit around that hair color.

I don't think you will ever get tired of fashion because it is a way of expression.
good luck

Sam said...

All I can say is "Like."

Excuse the facebook terminology.

Wonderful post. <3

zoomslow said...

Oh gosh! Some good thinking going on here. Well, you’re really pretty young, Tavi – so I think it’s good that you haven’t just restricted yourself to fashion. In fact, I don’t really think you ever have – and that’s a massive reason why I’m such a big admirer of yours. Your linking of fashion to art, music, film, TV, theatre, and more, has always been so creative and inspiring. Therefore, I find it completely natural if you are starting to maybe place a bit less focus on the fashion aspect. Why not? I’ve just mentioned six disciplines there that are open to being mixed up, rejected, expanded, minimised, rediscovered, and so on. The possibilities there are endless, and that’s just with six things! And as you say, you certainly don’t have to share all of it, or any of it, if you don’t want!

A change in the nature of your blog certainly won’t diminish my interest at all. I think it’s just a sign of your development as a creative and thoughtful person. I can’t wait to see what you get up to next. As I think I’ve said before, Tavi – The things you present are always great in there own way, but it’s your interpretation of them that really excites and interests me. So that applies to whatever areas you choose to explore.

“…felt kind of in the middle of an overdramatic identity crisis, like I had no right to wear the sweater OR sit next to Anna Wintour?” Oh no!!! As my mum sometimes says, “You’re as good as anyone.” Thanks, mum :-)))

“And when I did look around a bit, no one looked happy and it was kind of a huge downer?” – Ah, people! Unfortunately I’ve experienced this quite a bit too :-( In this situation, I guess I try to ignore the mood, and try to intensify my own interest and involvement in what’s going on…I like (<33), take joy in the person’s creative effort, or maybe think, how could that be better, or how could I make that better? Then, everyone else might be having a bit of a downer, or whatever, but wasn’t the detail on that collar amazing!!! I’m going to make a note of that later on…or look it up later, or make a drawing of it… Just an idea?
:-)

Jake said...

Thank the lord. I've been following many fashion bloggers for many years and slowly they have become as glossy and fake as Vogue. Thank the lord you still have your head on your shoulders. I read blogs for personality and you give plenty of that =]

stasia said...

I think that thing about tasting colors and seeing sounds is called "symbolic re-collective analysis"... way cool!

Houndstooth Bunny said...

Thanks for being really honest with your feelings, many bloggers don't have that.

yala-yada.blogspot.com

20thCgirl said...

I think this may well be my favourite post you have ever written!

Whatever you choose to write about people will read it. Recognising that limiting yourself to one interest is in fact denying you the opportunity to pursue others is perceptive, and I know you hear this constantly but your writing is far beyond your 14 years.

I for one am very interested to see what other creative outlets you can explore.

Ro Furkim said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Silvia C. said...

Hi,
congratulations for your blog. I find it adorable! For this, I wanted to give it Versatile Blogger Award ... Congratulations! Read this post on Surprised by joy - my blog - and your appointment time 7 blog that you like!

http://surprisedandimpatient.blogspot.com/2011/03/versatile-blogger-award.html

See you soon

Silvia

Ro Furkim said...

Hi, Tavi! I made a page for you in my spread book (wearing my dress). Look at Flickr, ok.

alex's ☆ castle said...

My favorite post from you, definitely. I appreciate your honesty in a cyber world where many people no longer think for themselves. Take a deep breath. Tavi, you're fourteen (fourteen, right?) You don't need to have everything figured out! Please, never feel like you're chained to fashion, like it HAS to be your passion because that's what your famous for and that's what your good at. Not true. You're good at thousands of things. You're good at being YOU, being Tavi Gevinson. Do what you love, it's your life. Maybe that's writing about fashion, maybe not. The world will still love you, we will still love you. Have fun, okay? Do what feels right.
<3 your friend, alex

Anonymous said...

It's all about being true to you. Being who you are, and connecting with people because of that. I have yet to read a blog that quite does that the way you do. Excellent expression of who you are. Inspiring, really. xoxo

B Tichvinsky said...

You know Tavi, It was never really for just the fashion that I followed your blog, TONS of people blog the same stuff about fashion every day, but you just talk in a way that reminds me to think differently. I'll follow you no matter what you talk about, Just keep blogging Tavi G, and I'll be right here (along with many others!)

lookwhoswearing said...

Cant believe you're so young and you write so well. Very introspective and very self-aware - which is in fact what truly good writing is made of. Really enjoyed this post.

xx G

Look who's Wearing (LwW)

Tavi said...

Thanks guys, it's nice when people "get" things. And it's nice when those who don't only furthered my point.

Samia and Rebekka said...

this is a bit depressing. i think mainly cos tavi is so young and already feels like this :( xxxx

Samia and Rebekka said...

this is a bit depressing. i think mainly cos tavi is so young and already feels like this :( xxxx

Samia and Rebekka said...

this is a bit depressing. i think mainly cos tavi is so young and already feels like this :( xxxx

theceelist said...

Hi Tavi! Cute outfit & nice room:)

http://www.igotconverse.com/

http://www.behindtheapprovalmatrix.com/

meagan said...

tavi this post is beautiful. really, it is. if there's one thing i can tell you, it's that being an adult is really fucking complicated. it's full of so many excitements and heartbreaks and things that are worse than having your heart broken and things that don't make your heart swell like it used to. time is so achingly precious. carefree moments are fleeting...so it's great that you're enjoying it while you can, and that you're not letting change who you are. losing oneself is a true personal tragedy.

wishing you the best of luck, from the bottom of my heart. i'm deeply honored to be able to call you a friend.

micah said...

So insightful, Tavi.

I'm continuously impressed by the way you are able to analyze not only the different situations you find yourself in (from home to school to fashion week) but the way you are also able to analyze your thoughts and feelings. To recognize that you are changing and growing, to be willing to accept that something you once LOVED may now only be one part of the whole, one piece of something you will love but that will continuously grow and feed into other NEW passions and loves in your life... is incredibly mature. Not many people i know think and speak with the insight and self awareness that you do.

I'm 10 years your senior, went to school for design and have over the years experienced a similar "awakening", or disenchantment with certain aspects of fashion and the industry. There is so much more to explore! Keep at it - I can't wait to hear where life takes you.

Trashy Student said...

DONT QUIT FASHION! At least not the way you do it! Your blogs are like the antithesis of Anna Wintour and the magazine industry, because you link fashion to your life (all of those HOLE influenced outfits) and do it in a beautiful way that everyone should take inspiration from :) xx

Jenny said...

Tavi, exploring life is what it's all about. Perhaps your obsession will morph into something that includes a wider scope, but girl, you're hooked and you'll never NOT be obsessed with it to some extent. All creative endeavors, both at the industry level and the personal level, run in cycles, and that's probably what's going on. It doesn't mean you're going away. It means you're growing. Never stop!

Izzy said...

You're obviously worried about loosing the passion, and trust me you won't. If you were loosing it, you wouldn't even write the wonderful post. Maybe you'll create a new genre, something completely new inspired from fashion? I sometimes feel like that, even though I haven't experienced near enough as much as you, maybe it's because you've experiences so much? Well anyway, just keep with it, there are far more things to come.

'All Swamped In Flowers'

Izzy said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Izzy said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Unknown said...

Oh Tavi,

You have more insight, more intellect, more honesty, more integrity than Anna Wintour on her very best day.

Manny Alexander Bradshaw said...

I Love ur blog! =)

http://mannyhilton.blogspot.com/

Anonymous said...

sometimes I feel like I've finally caught up with your intellect and then you post something like this and I totally feel like my brain is full of SHIT.

I don't think anyone can be obsessed with fashion and then NOT. It's totally natural (duh). My dad told me a story yesterday about how when I was four I would judge my mother's outfits and tell her if they were good or bad. And I don't nearly have the kind of style you do! It stays with you. The glamorous part of fashion is dumb and I think you should try to stay slightly seperate from that because that's not really who you are (again, duh). Just, like, build treehouses and wear awkward things and eat pudding and smile a lot.

Anonymous said...

p.s. if I could send you a tape of Julie Ruin decorated with hearts and flowers without being creepy and random I would

Susan said...

The difference between you and the sullen sunken faces who surrounded you, is that you have a child like spirit. You possess passion, life, zeal for the creativity. Forget names, titles, money...those things distort what should be kept pure.

Don't give up on this, you have way to much to offer in this industry.

You are a breath of fresh air, no matter where your passions take you.

mademoiselle créative said...

Your blog is so great!

http://it-girl-mademoisellecreative.blogspot.com/

brightlightsbigcity said...

The great thing about fashion which I've realized is that you don't have to be part of the industry for it to be part of your life-you've managed to ascend to a status that actually kinda makes you an insider, but that doesn't bond you to it forever. And enjoying being able to express your individuality and inspirations through the clothes you wear everyday is something you can cherish for the rest of your life-it doesn't matter what job you're working at, what school your going to, or whether you're sitting next to Anna Wintour or one of those teasing high schoolers who doesn't understand the concept of wanting to stand out in a crowd. No matter what you've posted about I've always been a huge fan of your blog Tavi, and I know you'll continue to be reliably insightful, interesting, and funny regardless of the topic you choose to write about. Thank you for sharing your reflections with us all.

xoxo
Nina

http://watermelonfeet.blogspot.com

Unknown said...

Tavi, you ask at then end of your blog, "how depressing would it be if I was that obsessed with fashion for three years?" Not depressing at all! Imagine that---you are a multi-dimensional person---incredible. Most intelligent people are. If you don't change, you don't grow. Your fans love your blog because of the intelligence, personality and wisdom you inject into every post. That won't go away no matter what your interests. Perhaps you become an amazing social worker or groundbreaking historian? This is one part of your life---at one moment in your life. Keep on keeping on!

tee said...

It's great to see that you're still grounded. No, actually. I feel like so many of the fashion bloggers I read (with a few exceptions) are really, deeply, out of touch. And it's disappointing. It indicates to me that the fashion industry is in its own bubble, totally removed from real life and real issues. I wish it wasn't, but it's nice to see that it's at least possible to retain some perspective and be a part of the fashion world.

Diaz said...

well, it's good that you're waking up finally... the fashion weeks are part of the fashion industry and THAT is not about creativity, self-fulfillment or inspiration. it is about money, madness, envy, greed and plain hard business.
design on the other hand might still be offering what you're is looking for. unless you focus again on an industry...
go and find your own way through it - it's the best anyway. ...and keep on writing about it. this will save a little bit of inspiration to the rest of the world.

GORILLA GIRL said...

It's the evolution of Tavi! You are developing as a person and it's natural. It's a good thing. It would be dull if everyones tastes stayed the same from the age of 12.

thiloan tran said...

Don't know if you always read all your comments but i would like to say to you ( if you read this ) that i like your blog.


loan

http://www.flickr.com/photos/thiloantran/

kellie h said...

i think this post has been inevitable. i have definitely noticed a decline in your interest in fashion as an industry and an increase in your interest in fashion as an art form. well, i'm extremely pleased with this shift and i just hope you keep your blog going, even if it becomes more focused on mixed media forms, i'm excited to see you progress!!
keep being badass-awesome-beautiful,
kellie

fallintotheblue.tumblr.com

Hanna said...

She's Anna and you're Tavi, you guys are kind of opposites and you both have equally legit souls. LEGIT.
Just by being you and making art because you just in one way had to, you have inspired so many people.

Hanna said...

Legit :)))

Sophia said...

It's hard, finding yourself becoming less interested with something or someone that used to bring you so much joy. You try to go back to it but it/they seem monotonous or boring or irritating.

Tavi, I read the article about you in The New Yorker, and I seem to remember that the only reason you turned to fashion was because you were trying to find something new to do with your time. Everyone had followed you in your obsession with Broadway and you wanted to do something different with yourself that nobody else was interested in. Am I right? Call me creepy for knowing that (again I may be remembering it completely wrong) but I just have a good memory (unless I'm wrong...)

Anyway, underlying message is; sometimes you just have got to change it up a little or give your "love", your passion, a break. Maybe you'll rediscover why you loved it so much...

--Sophia

austin sullivan said...

Tavi.... you are so amazing. I have to admit I am a bit jealous. What I would do to sit by Anna Wintour.

Ash said...

I love how you can perfectly combine witty and self-discoverance (?) in a style blog.

And who wouldn't kill to be in your place? (Not saying anything though, LOL)

Denim + Cotton

Anonymous said...

OMG, Tavi!! I love your Betsey Johnson skirt!

Bella said...

KSjfdhal;skjD EAJWEASDF
QREAWEGJFEAHWlkejfqkJWASDKJFNDAKJNkfasjdnvkjaheSfdjklajs
a
gah! Your are so amazing! This is how I feel about fashion, i like the quirky strange side of it and just get annoyed and kinda depressed when i read vogue, because of my lack of money eheh at the moment. I guess i would say i have a fashion blog but then again it's probably not what you would typically say as "fashion" more "strange grandma" i guess. akjvaejfdkjaoEjf being pretentious teenagers is so hard.

Bella said...

KSjfdhal;skjD EAJWEASDF
QREAWEGJFEAHWlkejfqkJWASDKJFNDAKJNkfasjdnvkjaheSfdjklajs
a
gah! Your are so amazing! This is how I feel about fashion, i like the quirky strange side of it and just get annoyed and kinda depressed when i read vogue, because of my lack of money eheh at the moment. I guess i would say i have a fashion blog but then again it's probably not what you would typically say as "fashion" more "strange grandma" i guess. akjvaejfdkjaoEjf being pretentious teenagers is so hard.

Bella said...

KSjfdhal;skjD EAJWEASDF
QREAWEGJFEAHWlkejfqkJWASDKJFNDAKJNkfasjdnvkjaheSfdjklajs
a
gah! Your are so amazing! This is how I feel about fashion, i like the quirky strange side of it and just get annoyed and kinda depressed when i read vogue, because of my lack of money eheh at the moment. I guess i would say i have a fashion blog but then again it's probably not what you would typically say as "fashion" more "strange grandma" i guess. akjvaejfdkjaoEjf being pretentious teenagers is so hard.

cancercowboy said...

fu**, blogger obviously swallowed my comment. and i tried so hard to sound smart and empathic... thank heavens that it ended up in my inbox. so here we go again.

thats it. you're past your prime, everything's gonna go downhill from now on ^_________^
seriously, is there anything to add thats not been said? no idea. let me quote myself: you barely scratched the surface (or cracked the shell ^___^) of whoever you will be able to become. still true. you're nascent. not that anybody is ever really finished until, well, they're dead. whatever. so now you know why its called the fashion 'industry'. no matter how rad a profession looks like, sometimes its just glitzy frosting on dull routine and seething vanity. interests shift. you change. so what? you signed a contract that you're only allowed to focus on fashion? honestly, that would be a waste. i kinda understand the melancholy in change though. but its not necessarily something bad. maybe this song captures bits of some of your feelings. maybe not.
you deserve some sort of medal if you read all the comments anyway.
rock it. feed your twisted mind ^____^

cancercowboy said...

i just hope its not that bad.

Renee said...

I think if you're interested in anything art-like, you'll get to this feeling at one point. It's just that all art (albeit music, fashion, writing, photography etc) in our minds is supposed to be about beauty, about creating, about the fun of making it, about the fulfillment that it gives us. But there are always people who do it for the sake of making money or fame and those people don't see art in the way we do. I think especially with fashion, things have become ordered in some sort of hierarchy and if you're not everything you're supposed to be, you don't matter. It's always hard to keep a love for art, when there are people apparantly ruining it with notions as success, fame and money.
It doesn't mean that you don't like art, it just makes you feel like it's become some sort of cold business where you'd like it to be a peaceful thing that anyone can do and that can bring anyone happiness.
And at times like this, I believe you shouldn't give up hope or abandon the things you care for, but just keep on dreaming and be optimistic. Your life will go where it's supposed to go, I sincerely belive that. It's just important to have fun on the way of getting there :)
x

Dee said...

HI Tavi, you are an inspiration to me. Keep blogging forever and whatever you are passionate about!
Dee Dee
http://www.deedeemcguire.com

ula on the road said...

WOW. This is exciting for you as well as your followers. I have been reading your blog over the past couple of years and can't wait to read your interpretation of the world outside of fashion as it relates to style.

OHEMV said...

Interested in fashion, art, and photography? Go check out www.treatsmagazine.com !

Some Wear said...

It wouldn't at all surprise me if one day you did end up with Anna Wintour's job. Many of your photos are brilliant and much better than what I see in magazines these days. Regardless of what you choose to do professionally, no doubt it will be interesting.

Unknown said...

how lucky you are ...to see it for what it is now, than to spend your entire life pursuing it and end up 40 and unhappy with a career ladder you've been climbing for decades and an emptiness inside. It's all so boring after a while ...though you'll find, after time, that much of life is just like high school, but fashion, in particular, is perhaps the most parallel.

Raquel said...

You look so cute :P
xxxRaquel

Mitchie said...

Hi Tavi,
This is an article from some blogger arguing how you are not a real feminist. I don't necessarly agree with the article; I am just interested in your rebuttal about how you are a feminst.

http://heyitsalexp.com/young-young/

I would love to hear your response in a post!
thanks!

Tara said...

You're fuckin awesome.

Chelsea said...

As a feminist who works in the fashion industry, I completely understand your dilemma. And I really wish that I had come to the realization that you just came to when I was your age. I've always loved fashion but the industry can be so appalling, and yes, really high school. But don't forget the fact that you have the ability to fuck things up from the inside! DO IT!

Lisa and Kirana said...

hello taviii, we're from indonesia. loveee your outfit <3



thatmeltingcheese.blogspot.com

Erin Tustin said...

Tavi, you are an incredibly smart and beautiful young woman. You are bound to keep moving as that is just a part of life. Don't begrudge yourself any changes and don't look back with regret. It seems like you already know those things. I wish I could have had your mindset when I was 14.

Anonymous said...

good job.

http://passionlessfashion.wordpress.com

Isabella said...

i love that outfit!!!

michiko said...

wonderful post!
u kinda captured the essence of livin in it....in a very sublte, stunningly precice way!
almost mindblwoing even though it was never ment to be superexciting .... WOW!

Anonymous said...

I've been reading your blog and tumblr more as of recent and as a 27 year old reader, you've made me so happy with all these posts and images that are full of nostalgia for me. You remind me very much of not only myself, but so many of my friends when we were growing up and didn't have online diaries (well until late in highschool, hahaha) and made collages together and zines and just were totally not the typical "girlie girl" that you'd find in the magazines. With that said I am really happy that you'll be exploring other creative outlets and although I do believe fashion will always be a huge part of your life, it's great to express your need to change things up a bit. It's natural and you're awesome.

alien she said...

you post make me cry :(

S.X. Rosenstock said...

your resistance is creativity itself. it's a raiment; it's rocket fuel. maybe your love of music, its sonic waves, plateaus, the feeling when sound falls away, or starts again to stir the air, will carry you . . . most reliably . . . for the longest duration . . .

TakeitEZE said...

this post is amazing. It's so nice to see people like you with passion, love for what you do, dreams, a desire to grow... you have the courage to embark in new adventures and not sit comfortable numb.
I am so eager to see where your heart takes you next. I'm sure it will be a fun ride.

MusicLuffler said...

Hi Tavi, I'm Cat, a 16-year old from Michigan. I've enjoyed checking your blog since the days I first read reports about you being the '12-year-old fashion blogger'. I don't think I ever commented before, but this post really struck a chord with me. I completely agree with everything you've said; you voiced my thoughts about the industry so perfectly. I also find random art, music, videos, etc - non-fashion media - to often be a larger source of inspiration than clothes themselves, especially when brand names, to most, are more important than good, creative designs. Considering being a designer myself, I've already gotten a sense of what you're talking about.

Thanks for writing and being an excellent reminder of staying true to yourself and not fixating on what others think :)
xoxo Cat

Ava Tallulah said...

You're a fantastic writer with really creative thoughts and ideas (although I'm sure you already know that). You're style is really special. I respect and look up to people like you who are not afraid to take risks and think way outside the box. I wish I knew you in real life (I mean that in a total non-creepy way, haha)

Future said...

Love you tavi.. but i think everyone (including most blggers) gets bored with things after about 2-3 years.

the fashion industry is hardcore gangbusters, but it's actually no less hardcore than any other industry. Theres a few specific rules of life that it follows, like everything else.

Also, you do have a different perspective than what most other women have, and the Vogue audience is completely different from your audience. I say just be true to yourself and you'll be happy within your niche.

I miss the kinds of blog posts you had years ago, where it was just you and your self portraits.

BTW the sensory effect you describe is Synesthaesia.

Skye said...

I really like your post, and I enjoyed the comments that took it seriously. But people keep saying you're "evolving" and now I can't get this picture of pokemon tavi out of my head.

Anonymous said...

Really enjoyed Freaks and Geeks video. Did you watch "Almost famous"

who am i?... said...

is it strange that i feel the same , altough i never created a blog my intrest in fashion was massive ,the trills i used to get when looking up my favourite fashion websites and blogs. but recently it like i dont understand it anymore i walk around shops and look at fashion that i used to love and no longer feel the same excitment or try work out in my head how i can manage to afford this item even if it ment not getten as much food shoping or walking places instead of getten the bus. i dont know if i making sense but just when i read your peice i felt almost as if i could of wrote it myself. I read trough magazines and almost feel as if i didnt see a word in front of my or i cant remeber the photos i looked at.so sorry for the random comment just thought id tell you i feel same and if u work it out let me know because i really dont understand whats goen on with me either!!..

Hanna said...

Same here Skye.

Unknown said...

I love the way you write and I think it shows you really do have an interesting view of the world. The best part is that you're good at conveying it and in truth it would be a shame if your writing was limited to fashion. Being creative in anything seems to necessitate looking beyond one single disciple. So blog on, we're ready for the new stuff!

dirtbike said...

SYNESTHESIA

http://faculty.washington.edu/chudler/syne.html

Astrid said...

As people have already commented, it's the phenomenon of synesthesia. Baudelaire has written a very famous poem about that: http://www.doctorhugo.org/synaesthesia/baudelaire.html

(Also Rimbaud said you had to try to disarrange -- by way of your imagination (they also did it with drugs/alcohol though) -- your senses to experience life differently)

Bhoomika said...

Tavi, you're my hero.
As much as I love fashion, Im more jealous that Kathleen Hanna gave you that sweater than the fact that you got to sit next to Ms. Wintour. AND its totally badass that you wore it to a fashion show.

So yeah. Be a proud feminist in the face of an often sexist industry. Start a band. Create things, seek inspiration, and inspire the rest of us with whatever it is you wind up doing.

And if you decide you are still into clothes after all that,
consider learning how to sew.

Anonymous said...

whatever you do decide to do with fashion maybe it wont be anything you will have done something for all the people who read your blog you inspired me and loads of other people to start blogging.And who cares , I'm happy reading about what you think about stuff and seeing your wonderful outfit creations .x

Unknown said...

I commend your post. This is exactly how I've been feeling for the past couple of months, and I thought it was just because I was taking my grades in school more seriously, but I kept feeling like it was because of this that I was bringing my A minuses up to A pluses. I miss what fashion was last year.

Hilary Grace said...

Whoa whoa whoa. You just killed it! I'm bookmarking this post under "inspiration"..and also "wise beyond her years".

Tiffany Royrock said...

You probably won't read this Tavi, but here's my take on this.

If you ever feel that intimidation from someone as 'high' in the social ladder as Anna Wintour is again, don't.
It makes me mad that people like her know they hold such intimidation to the extent where they aren't even people anymore because she abuses that so deeply, The fact that she can intimidate a girl in the 10th grade, makes me thing, wow do people grow up after this hell hole they call highschool? This isn't a rant on Wintour, or your blog or the fashion social ladder. This is a reminder that Anna Wintour like most people in the world, is just another 61 year old woman. And the only difference between her and the people around you is that she chooses not to be a 'normal' approachable person. Making her better then no one, which reminds me, you're better then no one, and no no is better then you.

Tara said...

oh, "this is the end"
by the way, speaking of 'the end' by the doors, you ought to someday if you haven't already watch Apocalypse Now. it's insane and amazing and The End is featured in the beginning and end of the film and it's a stunning visual-auditory combination).

I still haven't gotten over your fantastic sweater by the way. it's a perfect statement and the fact that a riot grrrl gave it to you makes it even better

I think you're just growing up and branching out. which is not at all a bad thing. I don't think you'll ever get over fashion, but it will enter a sphere of other interests you know? you're on the verge of expanding your interests.

fashion also is a part of everything, in the sense that it's just another way of expressing yourself just like art, music, writing, so on and so forth.
I have these different passions like poetry, songwriting, photography, and film and it's funny to draw from different ones and mix my inspirations and the different forms of art together.

the idea of mixing senses is synesthesia. it's a beautiful one. I really think you're on the right path (not that there is really a 'right path') but just that in the sense that you are really exploring and trying to mix your inspirations, which is good. you seem to have so much passion and curiosity which amazing. it will serve you well as you continue to get exposed to/expose yourself to new things, meet new people, and experiment in life and in the various realms of art

I think it's super important too that you're realizing all of this. self-reflection can be really necessary sometimes, especially as you discover new things about yourself or how you've changed. self-awareness can be good also because it can directly lead into the awareness of what's beyond yourself.

and you're young! just as I am. we have so much time to figure all of this out and figure out what kind of person we want to be and ultimately are. it's a prime time because of that

(honestly can't tell if this is incoherent or coherent because sometimes it's hard to translate thoughts into words)

Anonymous said...

Synesthesia.

Anonymous said...

Synesthesia.

Rachel said...

When I first read this post, awhile ago, I didn't quite understand it. Now, reading it again, I can see it and you with perfect clarity. For a long time, I rejected all superficial loves, including fashion. Then, sometime two years ago, I fell deeply in love with fashion. I defended it as being deep and personal; a true art form. Recently, I "saw the light" and can now see it for what it is. Granted, there are many great minds in fashion, but it is horrible in many ways. Trends themselves undermine individuality. Many great talents are ignored because they don't have financial and promotional backing. I still love fashion, but in a different sense. I now love style, it's the outward representation of one's personality and that's a beautiful thing. I think I'm at a point in my life where I need to balance all the parts of me. I need to take myself for who I am and not take take fashion, for one, for everything that it is. I will not be blindly led my fashion, but instead, I will march on with my own heart the leader. Tavi, I admire you because, even though you're a year younger than me, I can see that you are decades wiser. The beautiful work you posted here is proof of that.
Stay Gold (Ponyboy)--Rachel

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