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October 8, 2008

China's FHM

The rapidly developing nation is now setting itself further apart from it's European counterparts in Fashion. High fashion there emphasizes the length, angularity, and almost pre-adolescent bodies of Asian women. Somehow, I think there's a social commentary in their pictures too.

More pics after the jump.

Posted by tranism at 2:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 7, 2008

High-heel Galoshes

A company called SWIMS just launched a new product in their uber stylish galoshe line-up but this one is a high-heel. Like the other SWIMS products, the design of the City Slipper is simple and beautiful and in line with company's Scandanavian heritage. In addition, the design incorporates lots of great details both for practical and aesthetic reasons.

• Extra traction for slippery surfaces
• The sole of each CitySlipper has the map of either New York, Paris or Tokyo (see image)
• Pull on/off grip and the soft siliconpad on the sides makes it very convenient.
• Flexible design to fit almost any heel height and thickness due to flexible material and construction
• Protection for the delicate leather/suede sole of your shoe and the tip of the shoe against the elements.
• Low-Cut style is for shoes with bows and buckles

Posted by tranism at 1:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

My Latest Sweater

As winter approaches I need to start thinking about warm clothes and nothing warms better than a wool sweater. Unfortunately cashmere ain't cheap but lucky for me I have a dog that sheds enough to clothe a small village.

And I'm not the only one with that idea. The people at Pet Yarn Chic will take your dog's hair and spin it into yarn. They'll even knit something for you. Before you gag (or maybe you've been gagging since the first paragraph), here me out. Dog hair is super soft and gets softer the more you wash it. Unlike cashmere, you can throw it in the washer because of its durability.

Posted by tranism at 12:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

September 23, 2008

Talking About The Abstraction

I'm mad about this Japanese men's label Talking About The Abstraction or TATA for short. Their aesthetic ranges from sweaters printed to look like coats to tailored and tattered. Everything looks so extremely comfortable. Hit the jump to see more from their 2008/09 Fall-Winter collection.

Posted by tranism at 12:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 22, 2008

Butt Ass Naked in a Laundry Mat Thanks to Kris Van Assche

Designer Kris Van Assche and photographer Jeff Burton collaborated on a series of 12 layouts which will run in 12 select, international magazines as a unique advertising campaign for Van Assche’s FW 08.09 men’s collection.

Photographed in Los Angeles in March 2008 in a Laundromat, the series started as an artistic collaboration for A Magazine.

A Magazine is a bi-annual Antwerp-based magazine. Each issue is edited by a guest curator who freely develops the content of the issue. Van Assche is the curator of issue No 7 (on newsstands in May 08). Previous curators include Yohji Yamamoto, Martin Margiela, Martine Sitbon, Haider Ackermann.

The location for the shoot, a Laundromat, was chosen based on the set design of Van Assche’s FW 08.09 runway show, for which vintage washing machines were placed alongside the catwalk.

Typical for Burton’s work, the casting consists of real people and porn actors. His photographs capture the idea of seduction and sensuality, without any crudeness. Kris Van Assche, a longtime admirer of Burton, especially appreciates the poetry Jeff Burton pulls from the world of pornography : a place where it is hard to find.

Beginning with September issues, 12 layouts will run in 12 select international magazines. Each layout will thus be exclusive to the magazine. The full series can be seen on Kris Van Assche's site.

More pics after the jump

Posted by tranism at 5:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 11, 2008

Thom Browne Mens Spring/Summer 2009

Okay I know a lot of people poo-poo Thom Browne's skewed school boy proportions but this season I thought he did an excellent job balancing it. I particularly love the focus on tennis.

Posted by tranism at 1:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

September 9, 2008

Duckie Brown Mens Spring/Summer 2009

Athletic happy.

Posted by tranism at 9:13 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Patrick Ervell Mens Spring/Summer 2009

Little stripes, big stripes, we all stripes.

Posted by tranism at 9:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 6, 2008

Luxury Contact Lenses

It's a little excessive to have a strand of Swarovski crystals hanging from your eyeball. Yeah I said EYEBALL. These specially designed contact lenses were made by artist Eric Klareneek so don't go asking for them at your next optometrist appointment.

Who am I kidding? I would totally buy into this. Some kabuki makeup and these lenses would make a killer look.

More after the jump.

via Luxury Launches

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Pleated Shirt by B Clothing

I like a good pleated tuxedo shirt but the formal workhorse looks ridiculous on most people if you try and pair it with casual pieces. B Clothing has a wonder iteration that's less boxy and formal looking. It even has built-in suspenders. Hit the jump to see the model's rear. :)

Posted by tranism at 6:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 16, 2008

Supra NS Skytop Patent Red

Dammit every month of so Supra puts out another sneaker I love. They're really breaking my bank here. Their latest is patent leather red (my favorite color) Skytop available this fall at Factory 413 in Los Angeles.

These pairs of shoes with black flat-front tailored shorts and a green gingham dress shirt = HOT HOT HOT!

Posted by tranism at 4:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 30, 2008

Hello Kitty racing leathers

I'd so date a guy brave enough to rock that.

UPDATE: Reader A.J. sent in his own version. Hit the hump!

via Neatorama

Posted by tranism at 12:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)

July 10, 2008

Hello Kitty Black Wonder

The ubiquitous pink cat knows no bounds. Produced by Silly Things for the Hello Kitty Black Wonder exhibition in Hong Kong, these are but a few of the pieces being shown off all featuring subtle trademark kitty iconisms. Looks like Hello Kitty knows how to pull off sophistication too. I want these bad because and rock them during New York's Fashion Week this September.

More after the jump. via High Snobiety

Posted by tranism at 1:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

July 9, 2008

Yves Saint Laurent short films

For the previous 2 seasons, Yves Saint Laurent has accompanied each collection with a series of short films. Inspiration, depth, message? Maybe. I still haven't figured it out.

Posted by tranism at 2:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 8, 2008

Yohji Yamamoto S/S '09

Doing dandy right.

Posted by tranism at 11:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Veronique Branquinho S/S '09

Thermals, full pleats, rolled hems Oh MY!

Posted by tranism at 11:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 7, 2008

Raf Simons S/S '09

When tailoring is extreme yet wearable. Raf knows.

Posted by tranism at 7:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Lanvin S/S '09

Ready for the vineyards.

Posted by tranism at 7:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 4, 2008

Givenchy S/S '09

Boy Scout gone bad.

Posted by tranism at 1:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Etro S/S '09

Paisley riches.

Posted by tranism at 1:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Calvin Klein S/S '09

No one tailors sportswear like Americans can.

Posted by tranism at 1:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Burberry Prorsum S/S '09

Channeling Derek Jarman.

Posted by tranism at 1:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Bottega Veneta S/S '09

Pajama chic.

Posted by tranism at 1:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

June 24, 2008

Fashion Jock Sean Avery

I've been stalking following New York Rangers Sean Avery ever since his Vogue internship announcement. Already the man dispels many stereotypes about athletes; being a self admitted fashionista, there's no denying this could be the best thing that's ever happened to American hockey. On top of that, the man writes and writes well. He's guest editor for men's Vogue this month. Read on as he brings insight into the world of hockey, fashion, and journals his first few weeks working there. The man makes millions, yet he's accepted a minimum wage job just to do what he loves second best; fashion. You go boy!. Call me.

Posted by tranism at 1:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Lanvin's Lucas Ossendrijver

Japan's OPENER's magazine profiles Lanvin's golden boy Lucas Ossendrijver. This man has managed to revive menswear for a house long breathed of modern clothing. Check out the must see photo essay. I'm envious!

Posted by tranism at 12:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

June 2, 2008

Yves Saint Laurent Passes Away At 71

Yves Saint Laurent died Sunday in Paris at 71. He dominated much of 20th century fashion along with his contemporaries Coco Chanel and Christian Dior. Tho he retired in 2002, he continues to exemplify what it is to be a successful yet humble fashion designer.

Rest in peace YSL, 1936-2008.

Posted by tranism at 12:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 30, 2008

Dior's Black Diamonds

When it comes to mobile phones there are 3 classes. You have your mass market which is the largest segment. It's what most people have. Then you have your tech market with devices like the HTC Diamond and iPhone. This class tends to innovate and push technology forward. Finally you have your luxe class, such as the case with the new Dior Black Diamond phone. It's no longer about market segment, it's no longer about tech. It's all about the cache that comes with a $5,000 phone.

Money man, so much money.

Posted by tranism at 10:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Top Male Models Go Head To Head

Kerry, Oraine, Nate, Joshua & Tyler
Kerry wears navy and cream striped wool scarf. Nate wears navy and cream striped cardigan. Joshua wears navy and cream striped turtleneck.

Out Magazine's (thank you!) June/July issue features the hottest male models in the industry and readers cast their vote on who takes home the crown. They're also wearing some amazing clothes, a mix of vintage sports gear and modern fashion.

See more after the jump.

Ambrose, Parker & Ryan
Parker wears wool coat in oversize plaid by Yves Saint Laurent.

Caleb, Christopher, Dennis & Terrence
Caleb wears gray waist piece. Christopher wears camel silk sweater, black bib, and black waist piece. Dennis wears gray silk sweater. Terrence wears navy silk sweater. All by Prada.

Antony, Blake & Ben
Antony wears striped cotton button-down shirt and black wool trousers. Blake wears cashmere camel henley. Ben wears gray coat. All by Obedient Sons.

Alex, Peter, Texas & Justin
Alex wears white cotton zip hoodie. Peter wears white cotton long-sleeved T-shirt. Texas wears white cotton long-sleeved T-shirt. Justin wears white cotton zip hoodie.

Fulton and Rainer
Fulton wears gray cashmere sweater. Rainer wears gray wool trousers. Both by Hickey.

Posted by tranism at 9:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

May 24, 2008

Beardwear

I'm facial hair challenge. Thats right, my chin is totally barren. I know it can be a blessing but boy what I would do to get that Will Riker look. For about $61 I can. Beardwear makes you look like a super geek but a brawny one at that.

Posted by tranism at 12:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

May 20, 2008

Lacoste Celebrates 75 Years By Predicting The Future

If Lacoste had its way, this is how tennis will look in the future. A tennis racket with unbreakable magnetic strings, shoes with embedded screens, and a heads-up display that helps predict the ball's trajectory. It's a little out there but then again - think about what baseball players wore 40 years ago. Yeah...

via Kitsune Noir

Posted by tranism at 9:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

May 17, 2008

From All American Boy To Model

Metamorphoses Of An American, Karl Lagerfeld traces the physical and emotional development of Brad Kroenig, once an unknown but now the world's most sought after male model. Lagerfeld discovered Kroenig in 2003, took monthly photographs of him chronicling the evolution from all American boy to professional model.

Available this June for $85. Hit the jump to see samples.

via Frillr

Posted by tranism at 2:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 5, 2008

Limited Edition Supra 413 Series Skytop

Supra today announced the limited edition 413 series sneaker. The Skytop (high-top for you hipsters) comes in a silver/white/turquoise colorway perfect for that spring lull and approaching summer. If you want one and live in the L.A. area, hit up the 413 store on May 10th to get first dibs.

If you don't live in L.A., look for it Training Camp, Wish, Leaders, Palace 5, Premium Goods, MIA, Vinnies Style, Bodega, Ubiq, and Shoebiz stores near you.

via High Snobiety

Posted by tranism at 7:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

May 2, 2008

No No No No Not Nau!

Today is a really sad day for me. One of my favorite clothing lines Nau is going out of business. This comes as a shock to me as I read the very personal letter posted on their website. Despite being a business built on ecological and sustainable ideals - the downward spiral of America's economy has basically forced the company to close its doors.

For me this is only discouragement since I have based much of my research into launching my own line thru studying Nau's business model. The company doesn't just preach using organic and sustainable materials. They advocate a total paradigm shift in the entire life cycle of clothing, creating a closed loop system by where resources are extracted responsibly and at the end of its life - goes back to feed the system instead of rotting away in landfills. Unfortunately the hardships of challenging a very deeply entrenched system has left the company too battle scarred to continue on.

In the meantime we can enjoy major sales as the company clears out its stock. Their clothes are minimal but exquisitely designed and constructed - the type of quality consumers don't normally associate with organic products. Don't be fooled. These clothes are more high-end than labels trotting out of New York and Europe.

Thank you Nau for being so bold, daring, and inspirational.

Posted by tranism at 4:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

April 30, 2008

Yo, Check The Perm

The most dangerous men's hairstyle could quite possibly be my next coffee table book. Yo, Check The Perm is a compilation of 10 men who dared to change their lives thru the power of the permanent.

Posted by tranism at 8:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

U.S. Olympic Gear A Snoozer

Okay I totally understand why the U.S. Olympic committee chose Ralph Lauren to design the team's uniforms. Lauren after all, is the epitome of American style, design, and sportswear but GOD, I feel like hitting the snooze button a couple of times until I wake up to something more exciting. This reads like American douche.

Blah, I guess if I had to choose a famous American fashion conglomerate brand, it would be Calvin Klein. At least they're doing some really interesting things with textiles and form.

Posted by tranism at 8:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

April 27, 2008

'08 S/S - Walter Van Beirendonck

I've been following Walter's work for some time now and he never ceases to make me smile. His spring/summer collection entitled Sexclown draws inspiration from the digital world, namely avatars like those found in Second Life. He feels this digital versioning is the next step in the evolution of body manipulation - leaving the physical body to live as a pure digital form.

Sexclown also sees Walter returning to his usual theme of fetishism. The collection has a wonderful silhouette out of pure fantasy with the strongly articulate shoulders, hips and waistline - characteristics you'd be use to from the low polygon avatars in Second Life. To take the collection and its inspiration full circle, Second Life users can also download each one of the 16 models.

Posted by tranism at 4:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

From Hockey to Vogue

Queue Texas upbringing: Hey! Did ya'll know New York Ranger Sean Avery is a fashionista? He is I swear ya'll! Tho I ain't sure where his career stands in hockey, he sure ain't afraid to start over because he's fixin' to intern for Vogue this summer.

Queue San Francisco upbringing: That's hella tight! Who'd a thunk a hockey player could be stylish? Now I'm not sayin' athletes can't dress worth a damn but it's a nice surprise he decided to spend all that scrilla on clothes instead of whatever it is hockey players buy.

Queue Los Angeles upbringing: What? Like for real? Sweet!

Queue New York upbringing: STFU!

I'm back guys!

Posted by tranism at 4:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

April 16, 2008

Inside Nike Lab

Ever wonder what Nike's famous research facility looks like?

Posted by tranism at 4:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Danish Renaissance Man

There are few people in my field I'm jealous of but Henrik Vibskov is definitely one of them. This man does it all, from composing music, making award winning films, art collaborations with designers and artists around the world, and to top it all off - a wacky but successful clothing line.

I'm hardly qualified in any of those areas except fashion so lets talk about that. He graduated from the prestigious Central St. Martins School of Art and Design in London, then suddenly found himself catapulted to the likes of Dazed and Confused magainze, I-D, Wallpaper, and Vogue just to name a few. You can check out more of his Fantabulous Bicycle Music Factory collection after the jump.

via Life is Carbon

Posted by tranism at 2:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 14, 2008

Olympic Nike Footwear

Wow the first day of the Nike Beijing Innovation Summit is already off to a great start with the unveiling of Olympic footwear, one for each event. Notcot picked out some of their favorites which are mine too. If you wanna see more from the event, hit the press page. Otherwise hit the jump to see a detailed version of the picture above.

Is it weird that I want the gymnastic shoes for indoor use?

Posted by tranism at 12:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 9, 2008

The Uber Rich Are Thinking About Chemical Warfare Too

One of my fashion history professors once said, "you're gonna die anyways so do it in style." The old fashion houses of Velema, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton may have taken that sage advice to heart because these monogrammed, jewel encrusted gas masks will surely let people know you're upper echelon.

They were unveiled at the 2008 Luxury Show in Bucharest so don't expect to see these in stores anytime soon. More pics after the jump.

via DVICE

Posted by tranism at 12:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 8, 2008

The Queen Lands In Los Angeles

I meant Alexander McQueen, fashion designer God to many celebs, fashionistas, and aspiring designers. His North American flagship store just opened in Los Angeles on the corner of Melrose and Orlando. Though the facade isn't anything ground breaking, you might notice what looks to be a silver head peeking out from the roof. That's because a full size anatomically correct metal sculpture by Robert Bryce Muir triumphantly straddles a sky light with his arms right above the entry way.

McQueen wants the store to pull double duties as both retail and gallery space. Tall order but if anyone can do it, the Queen can.

Interior shots after the jump.

Posted by tranism at 6:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

April 4, 2008

Sheerness Is A Quality

Fashion156 magazine has an entire Sheer issue emphasizing simplistic, sculptural shapes, layers, and tonal nudity. Are you man enough?

More after the jump. Thanks Ethan.

Posted by tranism at 1:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 26, 2008

Gold Shoes Are Better Than Ruby Slippers

Y-3 is one of my favorite athletic sportswear lines. Designer Yohji Yamamoto always seems to know exactly what I want each season. I've been looking for hot metallic shoes all winter so when I saw the Honja Hi's in GOLD, I flipped! Definitely my next pair of shoes. Pick 'em up for a cool 2 bills and some change.

Posted by tranism at 6:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

March 22, 2008

Reebok Emoretion By John Maeda

Reebok and world-renowned graphic designer John Maeda have collaborated once again and this time are pleased to present the Reebok x Maeda Emoretion.

In their first collaboration, Maeda designed the Timetanium which was inspired by Time. For his latest design, Maeda drew from the 7th Law- emotion- from his book, The Laws of Simplicity. In it, he urges us to embrace our natural desire for personal meaning in everything we do.

Using Reebok’s iconic Freestyle as his canvas, Professor Maeda’s handwritten code decorates the shoe’s lining and creates the digital paisley print, representing a burst of pure energy and emotion. Holographic straps bring this design to life with every move, while the velvet-wrapped mid-sole and tongue-liner give a little elegance to the shoe.

Only 100 pairs will be sold. The Timetaniums sold out in the first 14 hours so these will probably go just as fast. March 31st is the day people. Mark those calendars. Hit the jump to hear John Maeda break it down.

Posted by tranism at 12:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Raf Simons Pocket Trainers

I want these like yesterday. Raf Simons footwear always takes me for a loop but this time he created something that I love; pockets! Not that I carry anything that needs stashing but still, a man likes his options. Get it now at Oki-ni for the exorbitant price of £389.00.

Posted by tranism at 12:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The Swede Lands!

Not until April 10th but Daniel a.k.a. Plankton did give me an Easter gift by surprising me with these limited edition Adidas boots. Of course he would never buy something for me without getting something for himself so hit the jump to see what he got. One of the perks of having Adidas as a client.

Thanks Plankton!

Posted by tranism at 1:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Fashion Blogger

I've really been into a blog called Fashion Fabrication. Tho new, it's already chalk full of useful style tips for men. The writer is quite the stylish specimen himself so he obviously practices what he preaches.

Posted by tranism at 1:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

March 15, 2008

Hottie Lanvin Sneakers

I'm kinda hot over the new Lanvin Spring/Summer 2008 sneakers. I love the ribbed tongue and suede detailing on the high-top. My favorite part are milky metallics. Another pic after the jump.

Get them online at Barneys.

Posted by tranism at 6:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kenzo Fall/Winter '08 Women's Backstage

This is for all you people who keep emailing me about only posting menswear. So here's womenswear from one of my favorite designers, Kenzo.

Posted by tranism at 5:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

March 3, 2008

Your Jeans, My Jeans

Not sure if my newer readers know but I have a fashion design background that's been sitting on the back burner for far too long. Mainly because my fascination with construction, art, and design doesn't mesh well with the economics of the fashion industry.

But I'm finally working on my very own menswear collection with the help and guidance of some very good people in my life. It's totally focused on sustainability from the cradle point all the way down to business. In my research I've learned the many gritty details often glazed over. Time Magazine has a great photo story about those jeans that you and I wear. Designer prices came from humble beginnings.

Posted by tranism at 11:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

March 1, 2008

PUMA Buys Hussein Chalayan

May not be really big news unless you're into fashion or love Puma. Okay in hindsight that's like everybody so guess what? Puma bought a huge stake in Hussein Chalayan's business and taking on the designer as Puma's first ever Creative Director.

I'm excited Chalayan's ideas will finally have the financial backing of a company rich enough to let him do what he wants. I can only imagine what he'll create for Puma. The flip side is the death of another independent fashion house. Chalayan is one of the very few "cerebral" fashion designers out there. He marches to his own beat and many of my fashion peers feel the industry is now a big conglomerate.

In any case, my congratulations to Hussein Chalayan. See my favorite Chalayan pieces after the jump.

Posted by tranism at 4:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 28, 2008

A Chino I'd Wear

I despise Chinos. Yes I know they are the American staple but their blandness makes me feel bored and clothes shouldn't do that. But the 2-tacs chino by B Yoshida is totally up my alley.

Nothing riveting here except for that big pouch. The easiest way to make me like something I traditionally hated is "make it functional." My only issue is the sizing; small and medium only. Damn the Japanese for their svelte frames and damn me for my meaty American bred body.

Posted by tranism at 12:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 18, 2008

Fierocia Coutura

Posted by tranism at 1:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Celebs Diluting Fashion Design

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana are tired of the number of fashion shows each season and that number is increasing. When asked by Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera about the situation, they had this to say;

"A senseless circus. There should be fewer events of higher quality."

I have to agree with them. This season in Milan, the number of shows has exploded to 103. It seems fashion is under attack by celebrities who think they can design. Excuse me but fashion design is a skill, one whose technical executions are only as good as its creative origins. All the money in the world will only make your line hot for the moment, but to have some relevance in history? Don't get your hopes up. Leave the big fashion shows to the real designers and stick to trade shows instead.

Posted by tranism at 1:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 8, 2008

NYC '08 F/W - Robert Geller