The Romance Issue

Posted by Stephanie Wu | December 10, 2012

Table of Contents
FEATURES “Bling Ring” Star Katie Chang is a Triple Threat: Young, Talented, and Mature The young new actress of Sofia Coppola’s upcoming film is the opposite of her spoiled, wild-child character. Mochi’s Holiday Gift Guide Creative ideas for everyone on your list—from tech nerds to photo addicts the beauty queens—without breaking the bank. Fashion Shoot: Winter Cool How to rock this winter’s hottest runway trends—faux fur, peplum, and brocade—and make them your own.
RELATIONSHIPS *Beat the Breakup: Mochi’s* Take on Surviving the Five Stages of Becoming Single** Some sisterly advice on how to get through tough times, with a little bit of humor, and a whole lot of class. Mochi’s First Loves To celebrate our Romance issue, the Mochistaff spills on their first loves, including places, hobbies, and belongings. Anti-Loner No Longer: Becoming Comfortable Spending Time Alone How Mochi’sbeauty editor overcame her self-consciousness—and what she’s come to love about hanging out by herself in public. The Perks of Being Alone More on the benefits of spending some quality me-time, plus six great solo activities.
BEAUTY Perfectly Polished: The Ultimate Guide to Trendy Nails This Winter From manicure basics to wintry nail art, from the season’s hottest new hues to the latest special effects top coats, here’s everything you know to glam up your tips. Treat Yourself to an At-Home Spa Day—Plus The Pro Treatments That Are Totally Worth It A little R&R is good for both mental and physical health. Here’s how to rejuvenate over the holiday break. The Unexpected Story Behind Cult Favorite Skincare Line Tatcha How skincare guru Victoria Tsai found inspiration in an ancient Japanese beauty bible. The Rare Oil That Led Makeup Artist Munemi Imai to Create Her Own Natural Serum Going from insecure teenager to makeup maven, with some help along the way from prickly pear seed oil.
HEALTH All About Asian Glow—And the Dangerous Methods Used to Prevent It Mochi’s resident med school student explores how Asian glow happens and the risks behind the popular measures taken to combat.
COLLEGE How I Learned to Love College By Rejecting the Model Minority Stereotype A college senior on discovering what she truly loves and surprising herself along the way.

Dear Readers,

I have always been the type of person who becomes attached to things very easily—you might even say that I fall in love very quickly, and when I fall, it’s hard. It’s not always with people, of course. Sometimes it’s a a new piece of jewelry that I’ll wear for months on end, a food obsession (I can eat spicy Cheetos anytime, anywhere) or a pop star who I just can’t stop listening to (Taylor Swift, you’re just so damn catchy).

We thought this winter would be the perfect time to do a romance issue, dedicated to all things worth loving. From a staff slideshow about first loves—do you remember what yours was? A stuffed animal, a city?—to our humorous take on surviving a breakup, we have it all. Beauty editor Nicole wrote an amazing story about getting over her insecurities and learning to spend time alone. It’s a relatable story I know you’ll enjoy.

Our cover girl is up-and-comer Katie Chang, who was hand-selected by Sofia Coppola as the star of her next movie, “Bling Ring.” We can’t wait to see how the 18-year-old follows this up. And speaking of things we love, we’ve combed through our go-to sites to find 40 of our favorite items (mostly all under $50!) for a holiday gift guide chock full of items for everyone. And hey, if you want to keep some of it for yourself, we won’t judge. This winter, it’s all about love.

Lovingly yours,
Steph

Header credit: Mai Truong