Campus Couture: The Fall Fashion & Aesthetic Issue

MEET THE STAFF

Head EditorMackenzie Conant

Assistant EditorAislyn Bradford

Assistant EditorPaige Heller

Section

Contributer/WriterMckenna Moczygemba

Section

Contributer/WriterAndrea Inestroza

Section

Contributer/WriterNatalia Valenzuela

Layout DesignerKlarysa Saldana

PhotographerMatthew Jurenovich

Layout DesignerDanna Ramos

Social Media ManagerNydia Perez

Contributing Media

Mackenzie Conant

thatWho’s gIrl?

By Mackenzie Conant

Hello RED readers, and welcome back to the Nest! I am incredibly excited to announce that RED Magazine has taken some big steps this summer and is now officially its own student organization! This is the first step in becoming more established on the UIW campus, and I could not be more grateful to the people who have helped make this happen. In fact, since the first day of classes, I have been overwhelmed with a deep sense of gratitude for our school. Not just because we get to see exciting things like this happen, but because every year I am reminded of the kindness and compassion that the community here holds for one another. A small school like UIW cultivates a familial environment that brings about its own unique challenges. Nevertheless, it represents the most important aspect of family: love. I have seen myself how deeply the people here love one another and how it manifests in both actions and words. We support one another in our creative endeavors, pick each other up when we fall, and cheer each other on in the times that matter most. An environment like this is rare and should be nurtured forever. So, as we continue on this semester, I want to challenge you to show those around you what it means to love as well. Be intentional with your time, complete a random act of kindness, and ask how you can support someone else. I promise that the more you practice love, the more it spreads. I wish only but the best for you all this fall semester, and I am sending lots of love your way!

Your

Editor, Mackenzie Conant

Let’s getTRENDY!

Fall Trends: Autumn as a College Student

by Aislyn Bradford

From spooky movies to an autumn breeze and pumpkin-flavored drinks, the fall season has arrived at the Nest. Like any other season, fall has its own spirit, traditions, and trends that visit us yearly. As a college student here at UIW, I want to share some of my favorite aspects of fall adapted to college life.

Celebrating Events & Exploring San Antonio

Fall is a great time to explore your college town because there’s always some kind of themed occasion going on. There are the chilling Halloween events around San Antonio, like BOOtanica at the San Antonio Botanical Gardens, Fright Fest at Six Flags, the More Delightful Than Frightful Halloween Bash at Morgan’s Wonderland, Zoo Boo at the San Antonio Zoo, haunted houses, and so much more. Then there are the cheerful fall attractions like local pumpkin patches, the Natural Bridge Caverns Annual Cavern Bat Fest, Oktoberfest celebrations, and corn mazes at local farms. There’s a lot to see and more to do, so explore the city during this season with family, friends, or a special someone.

Decorating the Dorm

Not everyone decorates for fall, but I certainly do. Since living in a dorm, I’ve taken to decorating the small space to make it feel more like home. If you were to visit my apartment-style dorm, you’d be met with orange and burgundy colored rugs, pumpkin scents, and fall-themed blankets. Closer to Halloween, my roommates and I like to pull out our yearly Halloween decorations. One of my favorite college memories was during freshman year, when our dorm was having a door decorating contest between all the rooms on our floor. The winner, you ask? It was the room with a giant body-shaped trash bag taped upside down on the door.

Fashion and Drinks

Fall is the perfect time to try layering pieces to create an outfit because the weather finally begins to cool (or as cool as it can get in Texas). This season is perfect for boots and sweaters, and you can add something extra to any outfit by layering a jacket, scarf, or cardigan. Fall is also the perfect time to get creative with food or drinks. From a pumpkin spice latte, Pillsbury Halloween cookies, to ghost-shaped pizzas, the season is also celebrated with fun food and drinks. As a typical college student who’s addicted to caffeine, there’s nothing I like more than switching out my usual coffee order for a pumpkin-flavored latte.

School Events

And lastly, one of my favorite things to do during autumn is to get involved on campus by attending different UIW events. You can join in on the adorable and sweet Trunk-Or-Treat event, where alumni, students, and staff decorate their vehicles and pass out candy. In late November, there is also the annual Light the Way Festival, which brightens up the campus with pretty lights, a variety of vendors, and spirited performances. All campus events are a great way to get involved on campus, meet friends, or even help you get your community service hours.

While autumn won’t last forever, the memories you make during this season just might. Hopefully, this gave you some ideas of things to do as we continue throughout the season. Happy fall!

DECORATING YOUR DORM

CELEBRATING EVENTS & EXPLORING SAN ANTONIO

SCHOOL EVENTS

FASHION AND DRINKS

F A L L F

S THIS TIME ON FALL FITS:

EVERY OUTFIT IS A LOVE LETTER TO WHO YOU’RE BECOMING - Liza Selects

LIFE AND CULTURE

Pumpkin Spice Meets San Antonio Heat

by Natalia Valenzuela

As the month of October approaches, so does the fall season. This means morning temperatures begin to drop, the leaves begin to change colors, and hoodies become the outfit of the day, but here in San Antonio, fall looks a bit different. With temperatures still soaring past 90 degrees well into October, the traditional pumpkin spice season takes on a whole new light.

Students at the University of the Incarnate Word may be trading their summer routines for fall ones, but what doesn’t change is their attire. While college students in cooler regions dust off their sweaters and beanies, you can find UIW’s campus in short sleeves, shorts, and Birkenstocks as the students walk to class with an iced pumpkin-spiced drink in hand to stay cool for the midterm season.

Though San Antonio’s fall weather isn’t typical, the autumn festivities don’t stop. Tailgates bring students together in spirited red and black as they cheer on the Cardinals and soak up the sun. Halloween on campus is just as lively. Students get creative for costume contests, themed parties, and spooky movie nights on Dubuis lawn. And of course, no fall semester is complete without a visit to the pumpkin patch. This UIW community event is hosted every year, and students get to go and pick their very own pumpkin to decorate while embracing the autumn ambiance.

For many at UIW, fall isn’t about the temperature; it’s about the feeling. Though the season has changed (but heat hasn’t), students still find ways to make fall feel real through the traditions and energy on campus.

The TOP

Fall Fashion 5 trends everyone should knowabout...

by Mackenzie Conant

With the fall season slowly approaching, it’s almost time to switch up our closets. From bright colors and shorts to warm earthy colors and jeans. After many hours of TikTok research, scrolling blogs, and observation, I am here to help you with the switch.

Here are 5 fall fashion trends everyone must know and take note of:

1. Chocolate Brown

Whether you love it or hate it, this color screams au tumn from the top of its lungs every time it’s in the fashion world. It makes sense how it has seeped into ev ery possible article of fall clothing. From hobo bags to Adidas sneakers to chunky sweaters- chocolate brown is making a name for itself with the demand to be worn.

2. Cropped Trench Coats

I believe that one of the best ways to elevate a plain white tee and jeans outfit is to throw a trench coat over top – but this time it’s travel sized! Cropped trench coats have been seen all throughout stores like Zara and H&M this fall as a staple outerwear piece. They have cracked the code on what its audience craves: versatility and mobility. In other words, it goes with practically everything and is easy to throw on in a jiffy.

.Suede

3

Before leather, there was suede, and it was a texture to be worn with pride. With the reemergence of western fashion in today’s world, suede has made a comeback. Suede boots worn with midi skirts, suede jackets worn atop a graphic tee, even suede loafers whose warm welcome has still yet to be determined. It is the perfect “something more” to add to your outfit this fall season and good news! It can be found at your local shopping mall.

5. Animal print

Dark denim

I must confess, for many years I could not be seen wearing dark washed denim due to the fear of it leaving the fashion world with skinny jeans. But have no fear! I have seen the error of my ways and recently purchased a pair of loose-fit dark wash jeans that I now could not live without. They simply scream “college in the fall”. When paired with an ivory-colored sweater and sneakers, there is no better autumnal outfit. Take my advice and go grab yourself a pair- you will not regret it!

With leopard print making a successful comeback last fall, there’s no surprise that similar animal prints have made their way onto the fashion stage this season. Although some may seem unconventional such as cow print, if you pair it with a fall feeling item such as a chocolate brown coat, the combo can be immaculate. Other prints like zebra and leopard will remain popular with their appearance on midi skirts, shawls, pumps, and more. The best part of incorporating one of these prints is their flexibility. It can be a small addition to the outfit such as a handbag or a main character item like a jacket, it is entirely up to you!

Athlete’s

Corner

by Paige Heller

Between academics, heart, and game, Jordan Norwood has it all. After transferring to UIW for his sophomore year, it didn’t take long for him to make a name for himself.

On the field he had many great moments. In 2024, Norwood played an important part on the special teams with 11 tackles, which included 4 solo and 7 assists. Along with being a key player on the special teams, he also had 3 tackles during the first round of playoffs against Villanova. Norwood, a middle linebacker, did not hold back once he got onto the field.

“I enjoy the comm experience here at UIW. The teachers and faculty are great and really make the whole experience.”

He continued to show up outside of the field within the Communication Arts Department. From working hard in classes to showing up to events, Norwood has become a vital part of the comm culture. When asked about his experience so far in the department, he said, “I enjoy the comm experience here at UIW. The teachers and faculty are great and really make the whole experience.”

When he isn’t excelling on the field or in the classroom, he enjoys watching movies in his spare time. Although all movies have a certain attraction, the ones that grab his attention most by Disney. He also enjoys sleeping and getting some rest after his busy schedule.

Overall, Jordan is an amazing athlete. Between being a stellar linebacker, amazing student, and Disney fan, Jordan Norwood has made a name for himself since transferring to UIW, and we are here for it! If you go to a football game, make sure to look for #30 and cheer for him! If you see him in the hallway, don’t be afraid to ask him about his favorite Disney movie.

LOOK GOOD FEEL GOOD: MY CAMPUS STYLE

by Alumnus Maleny Chapa

When I think back to fall at UIW, the first thing that comes to mind isn’t heavy sweaters or cold weather — it’s the unique challenge of trying to dress “fall” in the middle of San Antonio heat. While my Pinterest board said pumpkin spice, jackets, and boots, reality was more like iced coffee in hand, light layers, and sneakers to survive the walk across campus. Some of my favorite fall outfits in college were simple but made me feel confident. Thrifted knit sweaters over denim, flowy skirts paired with sneakers, or a fun oversized hoodie. I also loved keeping my fits laid-back but adding pops of color and fun accessories like a bright scarf, bold earrings, or my evergrowing sneaker collection. Dr. Guinn and Susanna can tell you all about my shoe obsession, which honestly became my favorite way to add personality to even the simplest outfits. More than anything, taking the time each morning to pick out a good outfit became a small but powerful ritual — when you look good, you feel good. Without even realizing it, fashion helped me own who I was, boosted my confidence, and gave me a reason to wake up with a positive attitude every day. If I could give current Cardinals one piece of advice, it’s to find those little details that make you feel like you. Thrifting around San Antonio was always a go-to for me,

but you don’t need a full wardrobe reset to step into fall style. Sometimes, it’s just the right accessory that makes the whole outfit click. Don’t stress about chasing the “perfect” fall look, just have fun with it. And remember, layering is your best friend when the weather flips from cool mornings to hot afternoons.

At the end of the day, fashion on campus isn’t about following rules, it’s about finding the pieces that make you feel confident, comfortable, and like yourself. So this fall, Cardinals, focus on what makes you feel good… and wear it like you mean it

“Cardinals, focus on what makes you feel good…and wear it like you mean it”

TX TRENDS

The Top 4 Thrift Locations in San Antonio

By Mckenna M.

From trends to threads, thriftin’ in San Antonio is on the rise, and I am here to share the Top 4 spots for finding not only trendy but affordable clothing.

Texas Thrift in Windcrest

This is the best place to grab anything, from a dress fit for attending the Comm Extravaganza to an oversized T-shirt perfect for when you’re running late to class. This Texas Thrift resides in a giant warehouse with a variety of treasures, including but not limited to dresses, furniture, appliances, jewelry, and even books. Texas Thrift also features a weekly color tag discount ranging from 25-75% off. Senior Tuesday’s offer 30% off for ages 55 and older and Military Wednesday’s for 30% off for active-duty members and veterans. One note to you all is that there are no dressing rooms; however, a go-to trick is to wear tight-fitting clothing like spandex so you can try the clothing on over your outfit. Another trick for a pair of bottoms is to measure the waistband around your neck; if the ends of the waistband meet at the front of your neck, then it is likely to fit around your waist. If the end of the waistband overlaps at the front of your neck, then they are likely too big, and if the ends don’t meet at all, then they bottoms are likely too small.

Thrift Town in Thousand Oaks

This thrift store has been my go-to for cute tank tops and stylish shoes since I began attending the University of the Incarnate Word. As you walk in, the sheer number of clothing options might seem daunting. The trick to overcome this is to work from right to left, going through each aisle, looking specifically at your go-to colors’ designated section. From there, you can pick and choose what you want, and this shop does a great job of keeping the clothes in order and in the right section. However, I still recommended roaming and looking in each aisle, because you never know what hidden gems are lurking behind a dad joke t-shirt (and if you happen to be searching for a silly shirt like that, this place is perfect to find it).

Buffalo Outlet

Without a doubt, Buffalo Outlet is the best close-to-campus thrift store. Located at 145 W Olmos Drive, they offer anything a fashion diva could want at a superb price. This cute corner store has a price max of $8. The clothing is always new, featuring daily items from shoes to skirts to dresses. The trick here is to go on an early morning, around opening time, to get first dibs on the cutest deals, as they rotate and add new items every day! They also have a great women’s shoe selection with boots, high heels, tennis shoes, and more for the same price, if not cheaper than the clothing selection.

Goodwill Accents Boutique

From wedding dresses to bangles, this boutique has anything a girl can dream of. Different from most Goodwills, this location specifically curates a selection of trendy and upscale items. Located at 717 Northwest Loop 410, Suite 101, adjacent to the famous Goodwill building, this space is full of not only jewelry, but wedding dresses that tell a story. As soon as you walk in the building, you can see the past of women and men who were icons of every decade, from the glitter-filled bracelets to the pure metal necklaces to the floor-length, and gowns that have been around since the dawn of time. As soon as you walk in, you’ll notice the back wall, where they offer great deals on necklaces and bracelets, priced at $10 for 2 or $5 for 2, depending on your luck.

In the end, trends come and go, but thrifting is here forever— as every piece of clothing contains a story of not only the past but the present, and soon to be the world’s past as a whole.

CLOSING REMARKS

By Susanna Alford

As we begin another exciting academic year at the University of the Incarnate Word, we find ourselves standing at the start of a new chapter comprised of opportunity, growth, and discovery.

The School of Media and Design (SMD) continues to remind us how every fresh perspective, every story told, and every design crafted carries the power to mold our perspective of the world and how the world sees us.

Through the lens of a part-time faculty member and an athletic advisor, I see parallels every day between the student experience and creative journeys happening across the School of Media and Design. They demand discipline and creativity, perseverance and innovation, teamwork and drive.

Photography by M Jurenovich

Whether on the field, in the studio, behind the camera, or at the design table, our students are always writing the next page of their own story. The start of a semester is more than a return to routines. It’s a renewal, with an opportunity to set new goals, explore uncharted ideas, and embrace challenges.

My challenge for each of you is to welcome these new seasons with curiosity and courage. Rather than regret the choices we’ve made in the past, let’s learn from them. Rather than refraining to pivot toward the future, acknowledge that perspectives often lead to our boldest breakthroughs.

Cheers to the new semester ahead. May it bring victories worth celebrating, lessons worth carrying forward, and stories worth telling in the pages of RED Magazine and beyond.

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