In honor of fashion week month, we asked Julie Zerbo of The Fashion Law to school us on both classic and discovery words getting passed on like air kisses within the circuit. Commit these definitions to memory—and try to use them in a sentence today (or don’t).
Beat the face (verb)
To apply makeup.
Go get your face beat, while we let this hair set in.
Carrying (adjective)
Once a verb, as in “carrying groceries,” the word is now used to describe a subject that is exhausting efforts in a superfluous, unnecessary manner. Athena is carrying today coming into work wearing butt pads with her Hervé Leger mini dress.
FAB (adjective)
Simply fabulous.
She’s drinking her Matcha Chia Glo while riding a bike over the bridge—in heels. That's FAB!
Fierce (adjective)
A word that used to denote exceptionally positive qualities and has since become the antonym, i.e. ugly, nasty, mean.
That model's body was giving me so much life, but the face was fierce.
Gagging (verb)
A figurative reaction to an over-the-top, jaw-dropping subject or situation; used when rendered speechless.
Did you see Coco in that gold lamé and emerald gown?! I’m gagging.
Giving me life (verb)
The act of impacting someone in a positive or intensely captivating manner.
This new collection is giving me life right now!
I can’t (phrase)
Dramatic punctuation; when someone is at a loss for words/action due to an intense influx of emotion, positive or negative.
I can’t with these Spring/Summer 2014 couture Dior Fusion sneakers.
“-ista” (suffix)
A suffix that is classically used to represent association, but in conversation indicates:
1. The speaker is a moron and should not be taken seriously. I’m a fashionista. I have a passion for fashion.
2. A heightened sense of emphasis. She definitely isn’t sample size anymore. What a maxxinista!
#iwokeuplikethis (hashtag)
The phrase used to categorize a flawless outward appearance, or to embody American singer-songwriter Beyoncé Knowles in body and soul.
I primped for an hour and then posted a selfie claiming I did not expend any effort whatsoever. #iwokeuplikethis
KK (abbreviation)
A dash-off text, the virtual equivalent to a quick nod or a thumbs up; may be used as an aggressively polite alternative to mere silence.
Boss: Hey, J! The retoucher needs more time at the office. I know it's already 8 PM, but can you stay an extra hour?
You: KK!
Lewk (noun)
Of, or relating to, an individual’s outward appearance. Distinct from the traditional usage of the word “look,” it conveys an increased sense of glamour. That Givenchy S/S 2015 skullcap and Rodarte butterfly scarf really complete your lewk.
Loves it (exclamation)
A way of expressing likeness for or approval of something, because there is nothing more #fashun than
1. exaggerating and 2. referring to oneself in the third person.
Friend: What do you think of this dress?
Beat the face (verb)
To apply makeup.
Go get your face beat, while we let this hair set in.
Carrying (adjective)
Once a verb, as in “carrying groceries,” the word is now used to describe a subject that is exhausting efforts in a superfluous, unnecessary manner. Athena is carrying today coming into work wearing butt pads with her Hervé Leger mini dress.
FAB (adjective)
Simply fabulous.
She’s drinking her Matcha Chia Glo while riding a bike over the bridge—in heels. That's FAB!
Fierce (adjective)
A word that used to denote exceptionally positive qualities and has since become the antonym, i.e. ugly, nasty, mean.
That model's body was giving me so much life, but the face was fierce.
Gagging (verb)
A figurative reaction to an over-the-top, jaw-dropping subject or situation; used when rendered speechless.
Did you see Coco in that gold lamé and emerald gown?! I’m gagging.
Giving me life (verb)
The act of impacting someone in a positive or intensely captivating manner.
This new collection is giving me life right now!
I can’t (phrase)
Dramatic punctuation; when someone is at a loss for words/action due to an intense influx of emotion, positive or negative.
I can’t with these Spring/Summer 2014 couture Dior Fusion sneakers.
“-ista” (suffix)
A suffix that is classically used to represent association, but in conversation indicates:
1. The speaker is a moron and should not be taken seriously. I’m a fashionista. I have a passion for fashion.
2. A heightened sense of emphasis. She definitely isn’t sample size anymore. What a maxxinista!
#iwokeuplikethis (hashtag)
The phrase used to categorize a flawless outward appearance, or to embody American singer-songwriter Beyoncé Knowles in body and soul.
I primped for an hour and then posted a selfie claiming I did not expend any effort whatsoever. #iwokeuplikethis
KK (abbreviation)
A dash-off text, the virtual equivalent to a quick nod or a thumbs up; may be used as an aggressively polite alternative to mere silence.
Boss: Hey, J! The retoucher needs more time at the office. I know it's already 8 PM, but can you stay an extra hour?
You: KK!
Lewk (noun)
Of, or relating to, an individual’s outward appearance. Distinct from the traditional usage of the word “look,” it conveys an increased sense of glamour. That Givenchy S/S 2015 skullcap and Rodarte butterfly scarf really complete your lewk.
Loves it (exclamation)
A way of expressing likeness for or approval of something, because there is nothing more #fashun than
1. exaggerating and 2. referring to oneself in the third person.
Friend: What do you think of this dress?