NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH: pulling off that under-slept look
In this column’s past, Critical Mass immersed itself in one neighborhood each week and found its most stylish inhabitants. We’re switching things up. Now, this will be a space for us to find fashionable folk all across the city. But we’re still keeping the hood theme — kinda, sorta — by asking our subjects where they’re from and trying to glean which trends are specific to which neighborhoods.
| Photos | Josh Middleton and Julia West |
Caught: Avenue of the Arts
We approached Dan B. (21) and Jisoo L. (22), two quintessential UArts students, while they were on a smoke break during finals. They were a little skeptical about having their photo taken, since they both admitted to not putting a lot of thought into their outfits that morning. But we thought they pulled off that over-studied, under-slept look oh-so well.
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| Photos | Josh Middleton and Julia West |
Caught: Corner of Broad and Locust streets
We noticed this cutie, DJ Psh (21), from across the street. In his oversize hat and mittens, he could be the warmest DJ in town. His favorite pieces were his black coat and Geto Boys pin. For those of you who may be wondering, we asked about the authenticity of his specks and he swears they’re prescription.
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| Photos | Josh Middleton and Julia West |
Caught: Walnut and 17th streets
The vibrant color of Elya W.’s (24) jacket caught our eye amongst a street full of trendy shoppers. The cinched waist and color make it very feminine, while bulky buttons and the rigid structure of the collar add a hint a masculinity. We thought she looked totally rad, but were disappointed to learn that she acquired nearly every piece she had on from Urban Outfitters. Wah-wah.
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| Photos | Josh Middleton and Julia West |
Caught: Walnut and 16th streets
Shane B. (24), a Florida boy, loves him some color and doesn’t mind breaking a few rules. White shoes after Labor Day? And smoking in front of a sign that clearly prohibits it? This kid is obviously a rebel.
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| Photos | Josh Middleton and Julia West |
Caught: On the corner of South and Seventh streets
Matthew W. (27) is a practical fellow from South Philly by way of L.A. We couldn’t help but notice his giant gauges and neck tattoo, but he was far more impressed with his sneaks, which keep his feet happy while traipsing around the city.













