MIANSAI by Michael Saiger FW11

Last year I was introduced to the infamous MIANSAI bracelet - sold at J.Crew and Saturdays Surf NYC.  I'm not sure if it was the sheer simplicity of the bracelet or its giant silver fish hook clasp that caught my eye at first, but I've wanted one ever since.  For his Fall 2011 collection, Michael Saiger provides his consumer with fashionable functionality that he describes as giving off a vintage military meets nautical vibe.  duh.

This season, Michael also branched out to make tie bars, necklaces and EVEN belts?!  I'll take one of each.  Thanks.

NEST Fragrances

I love candles.

I love social media.

Needless to say, this is a post about both.

I received a gift from a friend --a candle-- whose brand will go without mention. Prior to receiving this gift, I had started up a conversation through Twitter with @NEST_fragrances because I frequently walk past them while shopping at any of the three B’s and always smell them, look at them, hold them, but never buy them.  That was until I received a gift –a BAG of candles, reed diffusers, soap-- from Nest!

In a nutshell, I’m obsessed.  The candles feature more fragrance than any other scented candle in the industry with a “14% fragrance load.”  My favorite, grapefruit, sits in my kitchen and manages to give off a pleasant aroma even when UN-lit!  What is the purpose of a candle anyway, but to enhance life?

Thank you Nest!

[For information on 'where to buy' check out there website here]

Dockers FW11 Editor Event

The FW11 Editor Event at Hudson + Broad in New York’s trendy TriBeCa neighborhood earlier this month was the culmination of months of brand strategizing and hard work on the side of the PR team at Dockers.

Not just a preview of new washes and color ways and styles, the event felt more like a ‘coming of age” for a brand that for so long had been synonymous with “casual Friday.”

The Fall 2011 Collection was inspired by a journey [similar to that of Dockers’ journey, perhaps?], a journey to uncover what it means to be a man today.  Where jeans end and khakis begin, the Alpha Khaki is the epitome of this journey, taking on the attributes a man loves about his jeans: style, versatility, individuality…

[Event Space & New Product]

[Kevin Freed, Me, Parker Hurley]

Also making their debut at the event - the Razor Slim Khakis.  Slimmer than the D0 khaki from Spring, the Razor Slim is the most modern expression of slim.

DJ Biz Markie, of “You Say He’s Just A Friend” fame, was at the turntables, and Bushmills Irish Whisky and Heineken sponsored the event, so needless to say, the event was a HUGE success.

[Me, DJ Biz Markie]

ON A SIDE NOTE:  It was my greatest pleasure to work with such an incredible group of people.  I treasure every opportunity and experience I had while at Dockers.  I specifically want to shout out to Shaun Lewis…my former boss and personal mentor.

Levi's Fall 2011 Presentation

Over the majority of the past year, I have had the pleasure of  working/making friends with the publicists at Levi’s, and while I might be a little biased due to the fact that I work for Dockers about the denim brand, it is hard to escape the fact that Levi’s will most certainly be forever present in our lives [well done Team Levi’s]. 

Last Wednesday, Levi’s presented their Fall 2011 collection.  Mini-vignettes, styled by my dear friend Julie Ragolia, took party guests through the new range of products.  Please see below for a few highlights:

Levi’s continued to look at new finishing through a sustainable filter, exploring new innovations that build on the Water<less finish concept. 

[cute concept, right?]

In the men’s line specifically, inspiration was taken from travels to the southwest, referencing the landscapes found there, interpreting ideas around dust, oil and wax in denim finishing, giving jeans a distinct worn look, etc.

Also on preview at the presentation was the next installment of Levi’s Workwear by Filson [which will arrive in stores later this year].

Finally, Levi’s presented consumers with a Commuter Cycling Series, focusing on the needs of commuting cyclists.  Close to the hearts of the San Francisco-based men’s design team and the hundred of New Yorkers that ride to and from work on a daily basis, I’m eager to see how this collection translates to the masses.

My night concluded with a personalized note from the Busby's.  Who are they you ask?  An enigma.  I'd rank the event a 9.7. ;-)

Cut Outs

I have always found these sorts of images to be fascinating...I mean, who thinks to overlay a man in pants with a guy in a jockstrap whose getting up off the ground?! But seriously, these are amazing!

Japan: My Fashion Reaction

All eyes point West.  Having the opportunity to hang out and talk casually with a few editors today, a common topic of conversation began to emerge: the tragedy in Japan.  The earthquake that shook up the Pacific had a few people concerned.  After a long day of talking iodine pills and mutants [no comment, just stating facts], I began to digress and think about the tragedy in Japan and how it might affect fashion. 

History lesson:

Japanese design first made a real impression on the fashion world in 1982, when 12 designers showed their collections in Paris. Today's famous names, such as Issey Miyake, Kenzo, Yohji Yamamoto and Comme des Garcons have made a big impact on contemporary fashion.  Their use of inventive shapes and monochrome tones, particularly the use of black, shook up the fashion industry [no pun intended].  

Today, street fashion is shaping the fashion landscape, with much of the focus on Tokyo, however the established designers still play a big part in setting global trends.

I am obviously uncertain about what will happen over the next few years, but for right now, I will continue to pray for Japan, its leadership and the people that live there...and maybe I should go shopping at Comme.

Ivy PrepstAr

Inspired by the book Take Ivy by T. Hayashida [if you don't have it, buy it, NOW!] my friends tie line, "Ivy Prepster," updates the traditional tie.  The line transforms knit ties into woven patterns, taking inspiration from argyle, fair isles and textures.  The line also includes a well procured collection of refurbishes vintage ties which are very much up my alley.  So whether or not you are a single- or double windsor type of guy, I say go for it - check out the site here.

"STAY PREPPY MY FRIENDS"

Foodie Forever

I wouldn't consider myself a foodie per se, but I definitely love to wine and dine, and even more so, I love to be wined and dined. ;-)  Each year, Alan Richman, food correspondent for GQ Magazine, provides readers with a few "best of" lists - all of which tickle my taste buds.  I don't know when I'll make it to the West Coast, but as of right now the East Coast is offering up some really incredible dining options.  Trust me, Lincoln at Lincoln Center [ranked #1], and The Kitchen at Brooklyn Fare [the only restaurant in Brooklyn with a two-michelin star rating] are on my bucket list.

Check out the full list HERE.

Assouline

Every once in a while, you stumble upon a fashion treasure trove, and New Yorkers almost have it too easy.  Seeking to be an "engine of culture," Assouline book store, located on the mezzanine level of the Plaza Hotel, publishes some of the premiere monographs on photography, art and FASHION.   I recently wandered in, not intending to buy anything [of course], yet walking out with a copy of American Fashion Menswear.

This book is probably one of the most authoritative and exciting books on the evolution of menswear--period.  Get your copy HERE.

Espadrilles

I wore flip-flops while walking around NYC...once.  If you like the idea of nasty street dirt all over your feet, by all means, enjoy, but I personally enjoy the closed-toe shoe option myself.  The last few summers were all about the boat shoe, however, I see a trend a-brewin' on the horizon.  Call me a soothsayer, but have you slipped on an espadrille recently?  Don't get me wrong, I love a designer collaboration boat shoes in the summer, but espadrilles are swiftly picking up consumer attention...I swear!

For example:

HERMES [the name alone makes me smile] made a lace-up espadrille that was recently featured in Details Magazine.

[Image from Hermes.com]

PRADA [who is genius] made a lace-up wingtip oxford with espadrille sole.  Coveted by every fashionisto, these are a hot commodity.

[Image from Highsnobiety.com]

I have yet to personally purchase a pair, but rest assured it is on my spring 'must-have' list.

Arm Candy

I think I own 14 watches of various make and caliber, all of which sit in a drawer, in my dopp kit, in storage...somewhere.  I never really caught on to the whole "jewelry for men" idea, that is, until I went to a Details x David Yurman event.  I bought a bracelet.  It was steeply priced, but oh so gorgeous, and it helped with my cognitive dissonance when I realized that a percentage of the sales proceeds were going to Jeffrey Fashion Cares.

Last summer everyone was digging those yarn friendship bracelets.  Then, my roommate turned me on to a few Burkman Bros. versions.  I'm convinced that a Rolex, friendship bracelets, paper wristbands from last nights concert, and a prayer bead bracelet stacked on ones wrist is uber-chic: the grandest of fashion oxymorons, maybe.

Now I just need a Rolex.

[Image courtesy of GQ.com]

Favorite Quote

"Everything That's Popular is Boring" -Robert Hughes

Baseball Jackets

I have been spotting these more and more recently, and I'm not mad about it.  I think the baseball jacket is an iconic tribute to America's most beloved sport, and damn good looking, too.  Reminiscent of a letterman jacket [whose body is typically composed of boiled wool in a schools primary color with leather arms in its secondary color] and a letter sweater [predecessor to the letterman jacket], the baseball jacket is more casual, only requiring knitted cuffs, collar, and waistband.

More timeless than the letterman jacket, and much more versatile in ones wardrobe than a letter sweater, the baseball jacket is perfect for the transition into Spring.

[Can be found at Duffer]

[Can be found at Calvin Klein]

Workin' it OUT

A few things before I post my work out inspiration board...

1. I bought P90X.
2. Fried chicken is not the best form of protein.
3. River Viiperi walked in the D&G show.  That's it.

[All images from Thefashionisto.com]

Picture Perfect

Everything about this image is spot on...

[Image from GQ.com]

Summer Stylin'

I know I just posted a "Summer" story, but I've been feeling so inspired lately...so here's another one.

I recently had the privilege of attending the GQ Best New Menswear Designer in America event at the Ace Hotel in New York City.  Of the six designers that were chosen as candidates, one stuck out in my mind - Warriors of Radness.  Their laid back, nonchalant attitude about fashion struck me as quite odd.  Their garments looked out of place; too many colors, jersey instead of herringbone tweed, beanies...um, GQ, what were you thinking?  But then, I fell in love.

I am not a trend forecaster by any stretch of the imagination, but their garments [or similar] are what people are going to be wearing this summer in NYC.  I began seeing a little bit of this last year, but am certain that this year is going to be the year of bright, bold colors in a plethora of obnoxious prints.  I love all of their clothes.  I just wish they made a speedo.

[Check out their website here]

What IS Fashion?

Last night I watched "Exit Through the Gift Shop," a film that tells the story of Thierry Guetta and his obsession with street art.  From a chance encounter with his cousin, space invader, to his introduction to a host of other artists, and finally, eventual fame as a street artist, the film follows Guetta's obsession with the underground art world.  The lingering questioning at the end of the film is whether or not Guetta is in fact a street artists...

I'm sure that, what ever is happening with Galliano at Dior had something to do with it, but, when the film ended, I began applying that question to fashion - trends, ones personal style, etc.  Then this morning, I had a reminiscing session with a friend about just how "tragic" we dressed back in the day.

So I pose a question:  What is fashion, anyway?

Is fashion a double breasted suit with a crisp white oxford, bow tie, and spit shined monk-strap dress shoes?  OR, is fashion a pair of jeans, a logo tee and a pair of casual shoes?  Which one is more real?  Which one falls more into the "fashionable" column?  Who defines that column?

How does that relate to Thierry Guetta?  Well, Guetta had no vision, no artistic ability, no identity...he simply had a passion for street art and would do anything to be a part of it.  Fashion, IS part of everyone's life, and I personally think that fashion is whatever you want it to be, whatever you feel most comfortable in; fashion helps create identity, and allows for individual artistic expression.

I don't really know where this idea is going, just thought it was interesting. :-)

Summer & Simon

The weather is probably my least favorite topic of conversation, despite the fact that it is relevant and impacts everyone's life, I think it is just a means to avoid awkward silences.  That said, New York has been experiencing random spurts of warm weather, and has breathed new life and hope into my, what used to be dismal, days.  Michael Kors captures my mood and ideal of summer best in his most recent ad campaign, which I will share with you now.

I mean....

Lobster

...oh boy, now we are speaking my love language.  I recently had the opportunity to dine on said delectable dish and it touched me in all of the right places...enough to write a blog post about it.  See below for instructions on how to cook the delectable little crustacean.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon salt per 1 quart water added

One 2 pound lobsters

1 medium onion, rough chopped (approximately 3/4 inch square)

2 stalks celery, rough chopped

1 tsp cracked peppercorns

2 bay leaves

whole branches of fresh dill (if no dill, substitute tarragon or parsley)

Directions:

Cover vegetables and seasonings with 1 1/2 inches of water.  Bring to a boil and add the steamer basket with the lobsters in it and cover tightly (screaming might ensue, ignore).  Depending on the size of the lobster will determine how long you need to steam it:

Lobster Weight     Cooking Time

1 - 1 1/4 lb.          10-12 minutes

1 1/4 - 2 lb.          12-18 minutes

2 - 3 lb.                18-25 minutes

3 - 6 lb.                25-40 minutes

6-7 lb.                  40-60 minuest

To test for doneness, pull out an antenna.  If it comes out easily, it's done!  Served best with melted butter.

Men in Heels

The forties will always, in my mind, define mens fashion.  Think, Madmen: three piece suites, peak lapels, overcoats...but, reminiscing about the "good ole' days" is not what I'm onto here, instead, I wanted to talk about the crossover between men's and women's fashion.  My "fur" post got me thinking about it and I realized that there were more and more trends emerging on the men's catwalk that might be considered sartorial-cross dressing.

Belted cardigans were out in full force this season.  Perry Ellis had a few choice examples: 

Skinny leather pants, once only seen on rock stars and emaciated female models showed up in more than one designers collection this season.  Tim Hamilton, best known for his streets-wear meets fine tailoring aesthetic offered a few options:

Heels?!  I noticed the trend a few seasons ago while walking around SoHo.  Men in heels were not too uncommon a sighting in the tents this season.  Rick Owens is a huge supporter:

Sequins also had a moment on the menswear catwalk.  Check out Dolce & Gabbana's take on the trend.

I don't know how soon I will be donning a sequins blazer, heels, or leather pants, if ever, as I think jeans and a t-shirt will always be my uniform of choice, however, I get the belted cardigan look...and lets be honest, if I looked anything like the model in the above picture wearing said belted cardigan, I don't think I would ever wear anything else!  

Fur me?

Wrap me in a mink throw, throw me in front of a fire, stuff me full of fried chicken and call me happy.  Fur was a major trend on the runways this season--and not just for women.  Band of Outsiders, and Burberry had their male cast in structured fur blazers and top coats.  Antonio Azzuolo and Jimmy Choo used fur for accessories; Antonio created oversized winter accessories while Jimmy offered his first mens shoe line, some of which were done in horse hair.  I might have my blinders up, and maybe I'm a freeze baby and would welcome a fur coat on bitter cold New York eves, but I love how fur has crossed the gender barrier.  I probably won't be running to Barney's anytime soon to drop a cool 4Gs on a jacket, but I am excited to see this trends progression over the next few seasons.

*Caution: unless you are a pimp or a fashionisto, I would leave this one alone.*

Ps.  When did Antonio Azzuolo show back up on the map?  I'm obsessed.

Chad White

I really like his shoes.

Kiss and Tell

With true love being the exception, I have always been a little skeptical when it comes to dating within the same industry.  I'm not saying don't [I've done it], I'm saying, it's tricky.  The fashion industry is small, holed up in a few cities around the globe: New York, LA, Paris, London, Milan, and Tokyo.  Designers, publicists, editors, stylists all know each other, or at least know OF each other.  Its funny, New York, a city with a population of 8+ million people, and I feel like it could be any city in West Texas....Marfa maybe?  One stop light, one grocery store, one bar, Prada, population 200.

All too recently I found out that a notable designer was dating his publicist.  I ALSO just had a conversation with my boss, who has an incredible friendship with an editor at a reputable men's magazine.  I asked him how he manages to keep his work and personal life separate despite the fact that they seem to overlap so frequently.  He told me that it took some learning, but that when he's at work, he's working, and when he's not, he's not [easier said than done, I say, haha].

All things considered, dating within the same industry can be perilous, but I'm opting for the "true love" exception, myself.

Oysters

Jonathan Swift, most notable for his book, Gulliver's Travels, is quoted as having said, "He was a bold man that first ate an oyster."  I concur.  However, oysters are to the ocean, as pearls are to the oyster - treasures.  Oysters can be eaten on the half shell, raw, boiled, smoked, baked, fried, roasted, stewed, braised, pickeled, and steamed.  Preparations vary, and can range from extremely simple, a squeeze of lemon; to extremely complex, oysters rockefeller.

If you live in New York City and are itching to dine on the bivalve molluscs, I highly recommend you check out the following spots:

Grand Central Oyster Bar
Lure
Blue Ribbon
John Dory Oyster Bar at the Ace Hotel

James Jeans x Kanye West

Kanye West, the rapper, producer, singer and twitter phenom, is rumored to be doing a collaboration with James Jeans.  James Jeans is already adored by some of Hollywood's leading ladies, and will soon have a men's collection available for purchase.  Until then, enjoy the photo below.

[Purchase James Jeans here]

The Blurry Picture

The fashion elite and select taste makers showed up last season to Tom Ford's [j'adore] first-ever women's wear show. What can only be described as being extremely intimate, Tom personally presented the collection to those in attendance, as if nodding to years past when fashion was more regal-more exclusive.  Ruth la Ferla wrote an article recently for the New York Times [read here] titled, "'Less is More' is Mattering Most," where she outlines how fashion is becoming more private.

Christopher Kane is another of fashions most elusive, I mean, he DOESN'T EVEN HAVE A WEBSITE! [hello, it's the 21st century, boo?!]

I firmly believe that Tom and Christopher are preserving the sanctity of fashion.  So, as much as I love a blurry twitter picture of a model stomping down a runway, there is something special about waiting to see crisp, clean images of the clothes from a style site, or perusing the new collections as they hit the floors at Bergdorf Goodman.

A blogger friend of mine swore this fashion week that he wasn't going to post images immediately after [and/or during] the shows.  Instead, he brought a disposable camera [to the dismay of editors beside him] and waited patiently for the raw, unabridged images to develop before he posted them.

I guess this could be applied to more than just fashion, rather society as a whole, but before I get all Aristotle on your a** I should probably stop.  You get the idea.

Leather and Lace

Stevie Nicks is timeless, and so is this June 2009 editorial from W Magazine: