"Plain will never be the same."

Over the past few months, I've been testing the waters with Greek Yogurt. My older sister, who recently realized she can not tolerate artificial sweeteners, and had to trade in her standard yogurts for something more natural, turned me on to the idea. Plus, since I am usually out and about for hours at a time, the idea of having a protein loaded option was appealing. While the health benefits were obviously appealing, I was still hesitant about the taste. Especially the plain variety that she was pushing. What a huge switch from my regular selection of flavored dairy treats that I was used to. She encouraged me to try it, and dress it up with fruit, honey, nuts and make it my own. And to be honest it was truly "Plain Extraordinary" as the advertisement boasts. It really is amazing that something without "flavor" can be so flavorful. It's almost like the little black dress of foods. It's perfect, timeless and makes you feel good--and when the occasion calls for it you can dress it up or dress it down with any of your favorite accessories.

In my opinion, Fage hits this yogurt spot on! It is far from plain but truly extraordinary!

The Value of School Pride

Sometimes I cannot help wonder what the real motivation or incentives are behind increasing Marquette's tuition every year. This blog does not have anything to do with an advertisement per say, however, how many of us...myself included receive email after email encouraging us to "come to the basketball post season bbq and WIN A FREE IPad!" or "participate in the contest to name the new Johnston Hall student lounge and WIN A FREE IPad, if your suggestion is chosen!" Take this email that I received just 10 minutes ago...

From Intercollegiate Athletics:
Free Pizza, IPad Giveaway at Tennis this Weekend....

Where is all this money for IPad's coming from?? and more specifically, why does Marquette feel as though they have to bribe us with material possessions and food to show our school pride. WE ARE MARQUETTE, should mean that none of that is required. Right? Personally, as a soon to be graduate, I believe that I would show more school pride for my school if I got a great education, not because I won a free IPad. Doing so, would include being able to afford tuition, which I am lucky to have gotten without helps from the government. But not all kids are as fortunate as I have been. What message is Marquette sending out there?

Also, why can't they give out free tuition as easy as they do IPads? Students need to make a half court shot (something professional athletes can't even make) to win free tuition at Basketball games, but I could go watch a tennis match this weekend and possibly get an IPad for free. I mean when you add them all up (all the free IPads), that the sum is probably a pretty good chunk of a semesters worth of tuition. Is it really worth it

I dont know...
It is just something that really gets me mad sometimes....I mean I doubt someone is donating all of this money just for free giveaways. What about scholarships? Books? and again keeping tuition down.

It really gets one thinking...

New Reebok EasyTone "Shake It" Ad - Available at Lifestyle Sports

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXxZhhRq470

Sorry....I got distracted....what is this commercial about again??

Oh yeah...the latest athletic shoe 'innovation' to hit the mainstream market and media: Reebok's EasyTone shoe. The edgy commercial promises 'a better butt' as well as more toned calves and thighs. At around $100 a pair, you have to ask yourself: will these shoes buy me a better butt? Or is it just a whole lotta hype?

I vote a whole lotta hype. Every shoe company is coming out with these "toning shoes." But like all new technology, it wont be long before something better comes along and these shoes are soon out of style, or a waste of money. Just a matter of time before they leave you saying "I wish I hadn't acted so quickly and instead waited for the absolute best." The same can be said for cell phone owners who, for example, bought the IPhone 3 and before you know it...three months later...the IPhone 4 comes out, and with even more outstanding features.

All in all....this commercial leaves men speechless and women jealous. It's that simple.

We Are Marquette? or We Are White?

In this post, I would like to address and interesting discussion that we had in my sociology class the other day:

As a senior here at Marquette, I am required to take a senior capstone class. Being a sociology major, this capstone class involved doing a qualitative research study and writing a thesis paper on the topic of our choice. We have been working on them all semester and are currently in the process of presenting our information, findings, etc. One particular student in my class, who is African American, is studying diversity at Marquette...her interviews are mainly with minority students, rather than white. More specifically, she is asking what the phrase "we are Marquette," means to these students.

I thought it was very interesting that almost all of her students mentioned how they came to Marquette thinking that it was a rather diverse campus, but were shocked when they got here and realized it was predominately white. Particularly, the students she interviewed were members of the EOP Program and did summer school, with only other minorities. They had no idea what they were getting themselves into because all of the white students didn't "descend" until the beginning of the regular school year.

The reason why I think this is an important topic, worthy of a blog, is because each of the students were mislead by Marquette's advertising, specifically the pamphlets and website photos that they received. All featured students from a variety of cultures. For example, if you look at the current Marquette homepage image, or any for that matter, it always features at least one black student, or sometimes one white, one black, and one of another race (perhaps Indian), all smiling and co-existing without any discrimination. However, as we know, this is not always the case on campus

overall, the theme of this blog post is false advertisement on behalf of Marquette, in order to get more diverse students. I mean it's great that we have many diverse cultures BUT they are still outnumbered, and on the inside...looking out.

Something to think about...

Fantasy? or Reality? Part 2

The advertisement on the right, promoting Skyy brand vodka, is another ad that I found to perpetuate negative stereotypes of women as well as male dominance over the submissive woman. One will note that there are two main characters, a man and a woman. The woman is lying on her back while her male counterpart is standing, his legs on the ground and above the woman’s waistline. The man is in his full suit, formally dressed while the female on the ground woman half naked. On initial review, it appears that the man is in full confidence with all the freedom at his disposal whereas the woman is breathing at the man’s mercy. There seems to be no human interference that could prevent the man from hurting the woman. The upright and attentive position the man stands at indicates that he may have not consumed alcohol but could have perhaps forced it down the woman’s throat. From this angle the advertisement portrays women as sex objects easily moved people who do not stand by their principles. It is my belief that this image also makes women appear as persons who easily get carried away by simple things such as alcohol. This notion of drunken females being “easy” is common among college males and most likely one of the leading reasons why rapes and sexual assaults on college campuses increase with each year.
In contrast to the two advertisements I've written about in this two part post, I found it interesting to learn that Dolce and Gabbana were criticized for printing the following image, an image that from first glance seems to empower women:



Within the media, women and their circumstances have rarely been portrayed at an equal proportion as their male counterparts. In fact, print, video and electronic advertisements have at several occasions brought to the public a notion that women are a weaker sex. Therefore, I found it rather interesting that the same company, who once displayed such a graphic image of female weakness (such as the one above) could at the same time display an image of female empowerment. In other words, display an image where men are put in a submissive position rather than women. However, this ad was too good to be true.

According to Stefano Gabbana, “Since these images have offended someone, we want to stress that we wanted to represent a strong and dominatrix woman, as is today’s woman. It’s the vision of a dream more than reality, where the whip symbolizes women’s power and where the naked models refer to a classic beauty inspired by Michelangelo.” He continues by saying, “We wanted to place this artistic reference above everyday reality, but there was no intent to be vulgar or offend anyone’s human dignity” (Codi Carsten Blog Post). I think it is important to point out that within these two quotes Stefano Gabbana refers to the image as “a vision of a dream more than reality.” In other words, he acknowledges that strong and independent women are rarely seen within today’s media, but wanted to make his company seem as though they support such an image, when in reality they don’t. Objectifying men is “above everyday reality,” but objectifying women is no big deal

Fantasy? or Reality?

Modern media is a powerful means of spreading information to the American public that may not be ignored. Globally, media has been used to expose and perpetuate key topics, ideas, propaganda and stereotypes. As a female in today’s society, I both witness and attest to the influence media holds in affecting the perceptions that we hold of ourselves and of our female sex in general. For example, the following advertisement from Dolce and Gabbana not only portrays a female as the object of mans possession, but desensitizes female brutality through an image of group sex, or rape. It strengthens the idea of male dominance over women.



I guess you could say that I am a realtively fashion-conscious person, and therefore Italian designers Dolce & Gabbana often pique my interest, but not because of their clothes! Their advertisements are unfailingly sleek, well-composed and eye-catching. The initial implication of this image is that of a man forcefully seducing a weak woman. He seems to have taken control over the situation and uses his might to intimidate his female counterpart. As it appears, there might have been a long time struggle between the two until the man eventually overpowered the lady. Her facial expression is that of a person in desperate need for help, and one pleading for mercy. Her body size creates the implication that there are few chances of winning over the battle. She appears weak. This notion of woman as passive objects for men to possess is all too common within today’s media and raises the question of media brutality.

Additionally, the group of men within the ad appears to be a well organized gang out to terrorize women. They are operating under unsuspecting conditions. To the immediate left of the “main characters” is a man keeping close guard, and who has established a scaring eye contact with the woman. His glare is one meant to scare her against any attempts to scream out for assistance. He does not seem surprised by the turn of events since he was perhaps informed prior to their occurrence. Furthermore, this particular character has unbuttoned his jacket, an indication that he will follow his colleague in the ordeal. He does not seem shaken, worried or surprised.

For the individuals within this advertisement, the line between fantasy and reality has been blurred. Such confusion is made even more evident by those who are the consumers of such ads. Young girls, for example, especially those who may perhaps have self confidence issues, see this ad and think “why can’t I be like that?” They desire to one day have the attention of as many men as the women in the ad does and are willing to stop at nothing to achieve it. However, what these girls are not realizing is that this ad only furthers a pornographic image of female objectivity, rather than of female desire. The idea of an embrace is far outweighed by the power of an attack. My initial thoughts, though not envious of the ads leading lady, had nothing to do with the clothes being featured. In other words, the idea of women as objects is so evident that it overpowers the main point of the ad (i.e. selling clothes) to begin with. Dolce and Gabbana’s advertisement is focused on clothes but targeted towards men’s sexuality.

Colgate Wisp Commercial 2009

First, I think it is important to note that I initially watched this commercial without any sound. Therefore, my initial reaction was that it was either for a shaving cream or axe body sprays etc. In other words, I thought it was a commercial that targeted men and some sort of male beauty product. Afterall, the common message among such commercials are to allow for women to be able to "get close" to you.

With that being said, I saw this initial reaction as a very clever move on Crest's part. They turned something so common to the american public into a commercial regarding the importance of fresh breathe, especially under such intimate circumstances. The same can be said for Dentyne Gum's advertisements for "practicing safe breathe." Here Crest is stressing the importance of "Dont Get Caught with out it!" As if you're already doing something morally wrong.

At the same time, however, I can't help but to think of the success the Wisp has had. Does it really work? And more importantly, do people actually stop...leave whoever it is that they are with, go use a wisp, and come back to "close the deal." I can speak as an observer as well as a college senior that normally, when people want to hook up, they are going to hook up. They aren't going to stop and think twice about their breathe. Mainly because alcohol is involved so maybe that is a factor. Not thinking twice. So, is the target audience more adult focused? I will have to do some research. It would be interesting to know some more specifics.

My Mercedes Benz Saved My Life?

The above television advertisement for Mercedes Benz is a unique one to say the least.

The slogan for the advertisement is "My Mercedes Saved My Life."

I am sure that the main goal of the advertisement was to drastically exhibit the cars many safety features to its current or future customers. However, I believe this ad to be 100% rediculous as well as sending the wrong message. It really bothers me when it comes on TV. In my personal opinion, "My Mercedes Saved My Life," should change to "My Mercedes Changed My Life...when I wasn't paying attention." Clearly the advertisers didn't think twice when putting this message out there to the public. Let me just get into details...the following are all quotes that people in the commercial are sharing about their Mercedes:

"It saved my toddler in the backseat"
"I was dozing off and it brought me back into my lane"
"I knew I had to stop even before the car in front of me breaked. It's a miracle"
"It saved me from switching lanes when someone was in my blind spot"

Translation?

"It saved my toddler in the backseat" "I was dozing off and it brought back back into my lane" AKA my mercedes makes it ok for me to drive when I am physically not able to, for example it makes it ok for my to drive drunk. I wont hurt anyone, including my passengers.

Sarcasm?
"I knew I had to stop even before the car in front of me breaked" Rather than getting into an accident and realizing that I shouldnt, for example be texting while driving, I can continue what I'm doing and always know my car has my back.

REALLY PEOPLE!!???

This commercial just makes me mad. It is sending the wrong message. That being that it is basically ok to be a bad driver because you'll never be punished. It's like saying "I was speeding and my mercedes told me there was a cop headed my way about a mile way so I slowed down." It's not real. I doubt it is even that reliable. Who knows, but I know one thing...I am not going to personally test out these accusations and see if they work. I value my life too much.

I couldn't find the actual video for the commercial, but this one pretty much says the exact same thing:

It's All In The Preparation

The Gatorade G Series television commercial, featuring the fastest human on earth Usain Bolt, is actually quite unique. It not only features the evolution of gatorade, a multiple advertisment campaign for the brand right now, but if the viewer looks even closer the commercial also features the evolution of Usain Bolt; as evidence of using the new G series of drinks.

Specifically featured in this advertisement is Gatorade Prime. Prime is the "Part One" of the three part G series. Prime is important for preparing an athletes body for optimal performance. Every athlete needs to fuel their body. It is this fact that I found a connection for Usain Bolt, as well as my interest in the commercial.

The commercial features Usain Bolt present and Usain bolt past via a video screen. The Usain bolt drinks the prime prior to beginning the race. If you look closely, the present Usain Bolt beats the past Usain bolt. This suggests the evolution of both Gatorade and Usain Bolt. Both have improved over the years. Both have properly prepared to beat the competition. It's a hidden message, but a unique and effective one.

Finally, I find it interesting that Gatorade uses Usain Bolt, a Jamaican runner. Normally the athletes featured in their ad campaigns and commercials are American Professional Athletes. Being the fastest human being, I believe, has a lot to do with it obviously. Still, the message is the same...

EVEN THE BEST NEED SOME HELP!

http://www.gatorade.com/default.aspx#product?s=prime

Breaking the Silence....Stereotyped No More!

Since we are in the middle of March Madness, I thought it was appropriate to blog about one of the numerous NCAA commercials airing on television this month.

The lastest commercial from the NCAA aims to "break the myth" of student athletes being stereotyped as "dumb jocks." My first reaction to the commercial was WOW!! That is great!! I think this is mainly due to the fact that many NCAA or school focused commercials, whether it be for a specific division or a specific school, they are all the same. They all present the same information. "Our school is the best in ______ because we have ____ award winning professors on staff and strive to promote _____ in our students and our community as a whole." It's always the same message.

However, this commercial includes everybody and affects everyone that views it. Stereotyping is a huge problem in our society. We believe that men who are too feminine or wear tight pants are gay, women who like to play football or have short hair are lesbians, and that all blacks are out to get you or rob you. It's not right. But in college, and I can speak from personal experience, student athletes are stereotyped as being dumb and only in college to promote the program for which they play. Therefore, they are in the quote "easiest" majors. For example, at Marquette, most of the men's basketball team are Communication Majors.

I think that it is great that the commercial doesn't provide us with information such as I listed above, but instead gave us the facts. Facts that PROVE that the stereotype should not be a standard. It provides concrete evidence that student athletes are not dumb but in fact ARE improving. I say improving because yes, there are student athletes who could be stereotype as "dumb jocks," but not ALL of them are. It's getting better. I think this has a great deal to do with the importance of education now a days. Athletes, specifically basketball players, can't expect to go pro right after they graduate. Take Jerel McNeal, a Marquette Grad, who just this month...2 years after graduating, got a job in the NBA.

I could go on and on, but just watch the clip and see for yourself!

http://www.ncaa.org/wps/wcm/connect/public/NCAA/Resources/Latest+News/2011/March/NCAA+pushes+back+on+dumb+jock+myth

Brand Power

When I walked into "my" starbucks on 16th and Wisconsin on Tuesday morning, received a friendly greeting from (fill in name) one of my favorite baristas, and walked away with my drink I did a double take. It was the same feeling I have when one of your friends, someone you see most days of the week, makes a minor change to their appearance (they got their hair trimmed-they are wearing heals instead of flats-a new pair of earrings) and you know that something has changed but it's hard to pinpoint just what.

It wasn't until I looked around and took in all of the other cups that I noticed the "new" starbucks label. Bigger-cleaner-bolder-and without any text. What do they think they're doing! I remember back to what I perceive as the starbucks bradning fiasco of 2007-2008 when in an attempt to go back to their seattle roots modified the mermaid figure on the cups and changed the color to brown. Now that didn't last long!

There is something different about this new logo that has staying power. Perhaps it is because the brand has such supreme recognition they don't need any text. Can it be that Starbucks brand has achieved the "golden arches" status- that kids who have yet learned to read, can recognize their happy meal from a half mile down a highway from the logo on a road sign. Starbucks may not be too far off, a friend told me yesterday that young children have learned to recognize a starbucks cup and what that means (perhaps a hot chocolate or sugary pastry) without understanding text.

Could starbucks's recent logo lift be a push to woo young consumers-not likely-more fitting is the suggestion that this will help leverage the brand in non english speaking countries. Whatever the reason, I like it!

Chrysler Part 2

A few posts back, I spoke about Chrysler's new Ad featuring Eminem.....I presented my own take on the commercial, but after talking to friends and family, I would like to add the following information:

While an advertisement may appeal to any combination of senses, it is my experience that television media relies heavily on the sight and visual appeal of a given product to woo consumers. It may be for this reason that I find the new Chrysler ad campaign to be so appealing in that it deviates from this standard. What hooked me, and really grabbed more of my attention than a car advertisement typically would, is the incorporation of the percussion and instrumental beats of rapper, and Detroit native, Eminem.

Not only is this song compelling, raw and filled with the deep percussion beats it creates intrigue and builds anticipation. Unlike many car advertisements, there were few flashy, sexy images. The Chrysler instead seems more real, more visceral, perhaps more American….The slogan at the conclusion ties all of these emotions together…"Imported in Detroit". Definitely left me thinking!

Affordable Luxury

Once again, I'd like to travel back in time and look at yet another advertisement from the Super Bowl. In this blog, I would like to offer opinion regarding the motive behind Volkswagens "The Force" commercial. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R55e-uHQna0

Besides being incredibly clever and funny, I think that our class looked at this commercial the wrong way. Many of my classmates believed that this commercial was focusing on the family aspect of Volkswagen. However, being the shy person that I am, I did not raise my hand and tell them that they're wrong, at least to some degree. My first analysis of this commercial, was that Volkswagen wishes to prove to its target audience that you can have a luxury car, but at a reasonable price, one that suits the budget of the everyday family. In today's economy, I think that is something that many car owners are looking into.

As a sociology major, I have come to realize that status in our society can easily be "bought" via material possessions. But, not all of us can afford Mercedes Benz, BMW, or even Audi (who is advertising "New Luxury"). I think it is important to point out that such "new luxury" does not come at a cheap price. The new Volkswagen (which is being advertised), is the company's way of saying hey you can have the family, have the car, and still have it all. You don't need to empty your bank account in one fail swoop. Status doesn't always have to come at the price of spending thousands of dollars. In fact, I see this motto of Volkswagen to carry over into a lot of their new commercials. For example, the new Jetta (see link). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YwLG7YKfxtw

Overall, this ad is clever and definitely ties into the emotion of family memories etc. However, I think the companies main focus was to prove to consumers that Luxury does not have to come at such a high price.

Commercial Rating: 4 stars!

The Motor City

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEqMZsvNrZU&feature=related

I realize that it has been a few weeks since the Super Bowl, but while I was working out today at the Rec Center the Chrysler Eminem commercial came on. Maybe it is because I was alone, and not at a party, but I was finally able to really think about this commercial and its hidden meaning. In my opinion, this hidden meaning comes from a direct connection to Eminem. I mean, Eminem is not a face that you see very often in TV commercials. So, why did Chrysler pick him for their ad?

This past year, like Detroit and the nations numerous car manufacturers, Eminem made a dramatic and successful comeback. Years ago he was on top. But, like so many do, eventually faded out and had to come up with bigger and better material to spark the interest of his many fans. Detroit, home of Ford and Chrysler, was a booming industrial town until factories began to shut down. Of course, the car companies never stopped making cars, but its in the recent years that competitve ads between car companies, fighting over who is better, that have sparked our interest as consumers.

Overall, I think this Chrysler commercial is at the top. You can even credit this notoriety to what Eminem says at the very end of the commercial. "This is the motor city and this is what we do." Eminem is a wrapper and, not matter whether people like him or not, his music is what he does.

Well whatever it is that they both do, it's working!! I mean, Eminem just won the Grammy for Rap Album of the year!

Athletes Are Breaking "Free"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGlqQPrqZCc

It has been a long, cold winter and those of us who subject ourselves to the joys and pains of road racing are chomping at the bit to break out of the gym, off the treadmill and back on the pavement. The newest ad campaign for the Nike minimalist shoe, also know as "Nike Free", appeals to those bogged down treadmill warrior who are counting down the days for the ice to melt. Not only does the shoe design (bright appealing colors) suggest that spring is in sight, the athletes in the ad all seem to be liberated from the grind at the gym. The end of the ad even includes a large crowd of smiling, happy people participating in a road race.

Now, I try not to be such a "sucker" for advertisements but something about the promise of a light, free work out experience, not bogged down by the weight of winter or my heavy running shoes, made me desire this shoe. I had to have it! I even went to 2 stores to try them on. It wasn't until I was wearing a pair, and realizing that they probably aren't the best for me (I'm getting over a broken foot) did I laugh at myself and realize how powerful that campaign truly was.

Proud Papa

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZdALTZ6aA8

McDonald’s commercials lately have not been very appealing to me as a consumer. Most of them just don’t make any sense. However, this new ad, which aired before the Super Bowl, was different. I had both positive and negative reactions. My first reaction was to acknowledge the creativity and cleverness behind the concept. Like any family in the United States, the proud father wants to reward his son for his hard work and what better way than providing him with an all-american treat i.e. the McDonald French fry. However, unlike us humans who actually go to a McDonalds and pay for our food, the bears decide to get it the only way they know possible, scaring campers, hikers, etc.

Secondly, the commercial made me think back and recognize all the “hallmark” moments they’ve began to display through their advertisements. Specifically, I am referring to the McDonalds commercial where the teenager passes his drivers test and decides to take his family to McDonalds. McDonalds brings families together. It gives families something to bond over. In the bear commercial, the father is passing on knowledge to his son about how to get what you want. In the driver’s license episode, the father is teaching his son the importance of good driving and responsibility. In both, hard work is rewarded!

Finally, the only negative thing about this bear ad was its connection to obesity. Now you’re probably wondering, where is she going with this thought? Well, here is the answer:

Why does fast food have to be a reward? This quote from “Ad Week” explains it all: “Mmm, reward your kids with sub-decent, low flavor food that will make them fat and teaches them nothing. Go fishing with your kids instead. It's what bears would do.”

In this regard, I have to say to all the “proud papas” out there….take your kids to the batting cages, or any other physical activity when you’re proud of them. Don’t take them for fast food. If you're proud of them for getting good grades, secure them a healthy future, not an unhealthy one! Give them a chance to succeed.

What Brand Am I?

What Brand am I?

The better question to ask me is what one piece of clothing do I always wear and have a weakness for. The answer is easy, Jeans! Therefore, it was easy to compare myself to Gap Jeans. In my opinion, Gap’s hottest seller is the company’s “basic” look, which consists of their signature blue jeans and white cotton t-shirts.

First connection right there, “basic.” I am what you call a “basic” college kid, or at least I like to this so. Blue jeans and a white Hanes v-neck t-shirt are staples in my wardrobe and represent my “take one day at a time” perspective in life. No worries but the present. Additionally, Gap jeans are also very affordable compared to most designer jeans. This is another quality that relates closely to being a college student. Sensible style I like to call it.

Furthermore, Gap jeans are classic, as am I. When I hear the word “classic” I think of history, something that has stood the test of time, a product that is dependable. As the middle of five kids, I am what I like to call a peacemaker. I am always in the middle of small disputes between my siblings. Being in such a position makes me the dependable sister my siblings know they can come to if they need advice, guidance, or just a set of ears to listen (ask John). Being dependable is also a quality that defines who I am as a friend. Both my friends and my family come first in my life.

Finally, Gap jeans and I are both cute but not flashy. Gap jeans make me feel good, cozy, and comfortable, but I can take them out on a Friday night and paint the town! They’re understated and neutral but at the same time capable of making a statement. For example, one of my favorite things to do after a long day, week, or weekend is have a low key night, something that I have lovingly come to call “Katie nights.” Katie nights consist of comfortable clothes, some good food and of course a good movie. I am an individual who enjoys her own company. I stand alone, Like Gap jeans. Each pair is individual but has certain understated qualities that make them unique. I am a 22-year-old college senior who likes staying in on a Friday night every now and then. Gap jeans are regular blue jeans, but with the right owner, define themselves entirely.

However, though my Katie nights are great, I like to go out with my friends and have a good time. This is my last semester before the real world hits. I can wear my Gap Jeans casually or dress them up and make them shine; again, a quality that defines me as an individual. I am not a party girl, but I am also not a hermit. Like Gap Jeans, I have many facets.