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Fashion & Lifestyle

Why Do Italian University Graduates Wear Laurel Wreaths?The Scholastic History Of Le Marche’s Floral Convocation Crown

URBINO, ITALY — A loud pop rings out from the center of the piazza, as pieces of colorful andshining confetti shower University of Urbino graduate Benedetta Bruzzesi. Indeed, there are no caps and gowns for graduates here. Instead, students wear Greek-styled laurel wreaths made of interconnected bay plant leaves and branches, which are often adorned with colorful ribbons and flowers. The tradition stretches back to ancient times — and isprevalent throughout Italy. For some students, the colors of their laurel wreaths’ ribbons or flowers denote their major or degree concentration. Red ribbons, for example, are worn by law students. Dark… Read More »Why Do Italian University Graduates Wear Laurel Wreaths?The Scholastic History Of Le Marche’s Floral Convocation Crown

The Last Leatherworkers of Le Marche: Preserving Slow Fashion In The Italian Countryside

 By: Samantha Cortes URBINO, ITALY — Hidden amongst a sea of leather handbags, patterned silk scarves and feathery dreamcatchers stands 65-year-old store owner Donato Colombo.  65-year-old Urbino store owner Donato Colombo opened his handmade leather goods store, Ars Nova di Colombo Donato, over 20 years ago. The artisan’s livelihood has been threatened by the global fast fashion industry. [Photo: Ava Roberts] Behind the counter, Colombo hammers away at a piece of Tuscan leather. The display of hanging crystal necklaces and delicate wire rings clank together as he creates the first indents on the soon-to-be pair of sandals.  “I’ve always wanted… Read More »The Last Leatherworkers of Le Marche: Preserving Slow Fashion In The Italian Countryside

Threads of the Past

by Marlee Ebert This documentary short examines the reconstruction of Renaissance clothing worn by the elite in the City of Urbino during the 13th and 14th centuries. Atelier di Batista association members Carolina Sacchetti (historian) and Roberta Fraternae (tailor) research paintings, texts, and rediscovered period items to design and recreate the historical clothing in order to preserve the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Marlee Ebert

As a recent graduate from Colorado State University with the opportunity to attend this study abroad trip, I knew that I had to take the opportunity and step outside my comfort zone. This may have been one of the best decisions I have ever made. I have grown significantly as a person and journalist throughout my time in Urbino and I am so very grateful for all of the people and experiences I have met and had here. I have realized my potential and feel confident and determined to apply what I have learned on this trip to my career… Read More »Marlee Ebert

Dakota Kendall

When I found this program as an online student, I thought it would be an incredible opportunity. Not only to immerse myself in the field of journalism internationally but to also meet new people before I move cross country to live on my college campus. I could have never imagined the friendships and memories I would make within the first hours of landing in Rome. My time in Urbino has been nothing short of extraordinary. I have pushed myself out of the comfort I had settled into back home and truly feel that this place has brought me back to… Read More »Dakota Kendall

Maddie Kaitchuck

I am a Junior at Colorado State University, studying Journalism. I enjoy writing, photography and graphic design. I aspire to work in the social media field after graduation. My time in Urbino has been very eye opening, as this trip was my first time leaving the United States. This past month has been one of the fastest and most exciting of my life. I am grateful for all of the experiences and education gained during my time here. I can’t wait until I can come back again!

Ava Roberts

My time here in Urbino has been life changing. Studying abroad has always been one of my life goals and I feel so lucky to be here in Urbino with these professors and my fellow classmates. Throughout my time here I have learned so much about journalism, culture, and history. I have gained skills that I will use for the rest of my life and will be beneficial for my future travels. The skills I have learned here will forever be useful and I am excited to go back to Colorado and apply these skills to my everyday life and… Read More »Ava Roberts

Samantha Cortes

Nearly a month ago, I sat alone at the Rome airport, nervously awaiting my journey to the countryside town of Urbino. I never could have imagined the community of supportive friends and faculty I would find in this small corner of Le Marche. From grabbing late-night gelato in the Piazza to dancing down the cobblestone streets, Urbino has given me life-changing experiences and unforgettable memories. The curriculum here has given me my first hands-on experience with international reporting and has pushed the bounds of my multimedia journalism skills. I am incredibly grateful for the time I spent in Urbino, ciao! … Read More »Samantha Cortes