Photo: Getty Images
Here's a sneak peak at Ed Westwick's K-Swiss campaign. Surprise, surprise -- he looks like, what else, Chuck Bass pitching K-Swiss. Typecasting strikes again. [Just Jared]
P Diddy's new frangrance, I am King, is targeted at Barack Obama supporters. "When you see Barack Obama, you see a strong, elegant black man and when people see my ad, it's almost like that's the trend," he says. Diddy sharing the spotlight with someone else? Obama really is the face of change in this country! [WSJ]
Kathy Horyn has a photo of Karl Lagerfeld as a child. Style in its purest form. [NYT/On the Runway]
ATTENTION: If you are in New York and want to get your hands on a limited (only 60 pairs) edition pair of completely reflective New Balance sneakers, stop reading this and get out the door! Almost the entire upper of the shoe is created in a special Schoeller-Reflex
material comprised of microscopic pieces of glass beads. The result is
an ultra brilliant and reflective material which also features a strong
protection against the elements and scuffs and offering visibility up
to 328 feet away. Sale starts today at 11 AM at 7 Mercer street between Canal and Grand. GO GO GO!! [Hypebeast]
The boys (and girls, but whatever) of Summer Fashion week in Rio. Just a reminder, summer = swimsuits. Enjoy. [The Cut]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Men's Vogue, thought to have folded yesterday, will actually be cut to just two issues a year. The carnage of the failing economy continues. [The Cut]
Maison Martin Margiela is launching its first pre-collection, Avant Premiere. The collection, which will hit stores in May, will consist of about 60 looks for both men and women, and will also include shoes and accessories. So...he's not retiring? [British Vogue]
Thankfully someone made it over to Seoul for Fashion Week. Rebecca Milner of JC Report gives a roundup. [JC Report]
Open for Business: The Yohji Yamamoto flagship on 4 Rue Cambon in Paris.
Smell this: Brooks Brothers New York for Gentlemen fragrance.
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
Giorgio Armani (pictured) says designers need to learn to "not have any claims" over their label. He's had the fashion world guessing for years about his next move, but could he be finally hinting at retirement? [Stuff.co.nz]
Fashion critic Mr. Blackwell passes away at the age of 86. Having roasted everyone from Princess Margaret to Britney Spears on his annual worst dressed list, the biting one-time designer showed us gays the power of the "oh no she didn't!" [IHT]
Seoul and India kick off their respective fashion weeks. Why should you care? With the global economy being as shaky as it is, you never know where the next fashion capital is going to spring up. [Popseoul] and [Times of India]
Cosby sweaters are in for fall. Thanks, Williamsburg. We're considering extended hibernation until this trend goes back to the depths of tacky hell from which it came. [The Cut]
Open for business: Hugo Boss in NYC's Meatpacking district. Sebastian's Closet reopens in Atlanta.
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
John Galliano (left) has supposedly signed "a long-term extension" of his design contract with Dior.
As well as they've done under his creative hand, they are planning a
further integration of his design, which means more flights of fancy in
the Dior menswear collections. [WWD]
As was reported, Balenciaga showed a quick passage of men at his Paris fashion show.
It was a quick seven looks that walked down the runway, and though
Cathy Horyn at the New York Times unsurprisingly called the looks
"duds," we simply see it as a taste of things to come. Besides that, Cole Mohr was the first male model out, and he's always enough to bring our guards down. [On the Runway]
(Almost) Open for Business: Paul Smith in Brooklyn. Though Manhattanites are rarely looking for a reason to love the borough, it will certainly help that the store will offer an ever revolving selection of his designs at up to 30% off. Who said the Brits weren't sympathetic to the American economic plight? [Material Interest]
(Actually) Open for Business: a peek inside Billy Reid's new Manhattan store.
Yves Saint Laurent is up for auction. Well, a big chunk of his art collection is at least. Come February the masses will get the opportunity to bid on everything from Matisse to Mondrian, with proceeds from the sale -- which is expected to garner $440 million -- going to charity. Self-serving philanthropy is the best, isn't it? [Material Interest]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Open for Business: Lanvin on London's Savile Row. Almost open for business: Alife Rivington Club's new sporting goods store, rumored to be named Limited Edition Sportswear (L.E.S.).
Care for a straight man's view on Fashion Week? Probably not, but just in case you're intrigued by what the other side thinks, Joel Stein, who will at least make you last, attended a few shows for Time.com and, surprisingly, his observations are quite keen. [Time]
Now that they've lost Project Runway, Bravo is casting for their replacement show, Fashion House. The idea is for a team to create an entire look that can compete with today's most honored American labels. If you're interested, get your sewing kit, your sketch book and your best one-liners and send your tape in today! Just do us all a favor and avoid trying to coin a new catch-phrase. [Bravo]
Jaime Strachan, boyfriend to model Behati Prinsloo, just launched an entomythological men's jewelry line. The line is a collaboration with jewelry designer Phillipa Holland. Strachan says, "We were inspired by the darker side of nature and we gave it a spiritual spin." Creepy or cool? [British Vogue]
-- SETH PLATTNER
 Photo: Getty Images
The Olsen twins are said to be designing menswear for their high-end label The Row. Something tells me they might have an issue with sizing. [WWD]
Tyson Beckford stripped for charity in the annual Fashion for Relief charity show in London. Naomi Campbell organized the event his year, and got all her friends to participate to raise money. With Tyson Beckford shirtless, I'm sure a few other things were raised as well. [A Socialite's Life]
The Topshop and Topman store opening has been delayed...again. Now it's not slated to open until Spring, rather than October like they promised. I understand building hype and anticipation for a brand, but this is a little ridiculous. [WWD]
For all you New Yorkers, you'll be delighted to indulge the rumor that Marc Jacobs might is opening an East Village Marc by Marc store. Finally people are catching on that the West Village is just so over. Over my budget, that is. [Fashionista]
Cold weather is a-coming, so you'll need a few things to brave the elements. Brave as you may be, you must always do it in style. [The Upgrader]
More from London Fashion Week: Mulberry Men's. Newly crowned Creative Director Emma Hill does wonders with accessories, but she shows considerable talent on the runway as well. [Material Interest]
-- SETH PLATTNER
 Photo: Getty Images
Naomi Campbell (pictured) is on the brink of retirement. Worn, beaten and utterly stomped-to-a-pulp runways are thankful. We, however, are not. [Times UK]
Keith's winning dress from Project Runway for Brooke Shields to debut on Lipstick Jungle is too small for her to wear. Shields says she sent it to be "fitted to be real people size" and may even split up the top and bottom. For Keith, that's like hearing a seam rip. [The Cut]
We love a new face! Here's an up-and-coming model you'll surely want to watch: Simon Nessman. We saw him walk in the Rock & Republic show during New York Fashion Week, and that probably won't be the last time he catches our eye. [The Cut]
Though we couldn't hop the pond for London Fashion Week, a few others could. Check these runway reviews for a few labels that are making waves all the way over here. [Material Interest]
J. Crew is synonymous with preppy, and they're just fine with keeping it that way. Having done it right for over 20 years -- and kick-starting the careers of some of the most noted new menswear designers -- their new lifestyle boutique proves again why every man goes through a prep stage at some point or another. [NYT]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
John Varvatos says he's considering moving his show to Milan. "New York Fashion Week is not in step, time-wise, with men’s markets at
all," he said. [The Cut]
Is Chace Crawford next in line to become the new face of Versace? We're hearing word that he could be poised to steal the next ad campaign from the flowing-haired Patrick Dempsey. [Perez Hilton]
The Diesel store on Carnaby street in London's Soho district has been wrapped with padding, PVC and shiny black material. And why? To give it a particularly S&M look to promote their Dark Desires line. Matt Wingfield, the artist who conceptualized the display, said, “We are trying to push the idea of display and how a brand can seek attention." You don't say. [Creative Review]
Project Runway is not only moving to Lifetime next season, but also to Los Angeles, where Heidi Klum promises a lot of upgrades. Among said improvements? Kick-ass sewing machines, which means no more gratuitous fights between designers about so-and-so screwing up the crappy Parson's equipment the last time they used it. I mean, it's Lifetime, so they've gotta take it down a notch with all the drama. [People]
-- SETH PLATTNER
 Photo: Getty Images
Large Editor-at-Large Andre Leon Talley was bum rushed by Mediabistro for an interview at his favorite White Plains diner, and, fashionista he may be, diva he is certainly not. [Mediabistro]
Project Runway winner and fashion pixie Christian Siriano (pictured)
showed at
New York Fashion week, but he's got a number of other projects going on to
keep his nimble fingers busy, including a couture collection. He answered a few questions to get us all up to speed. [WWD]
Yes, we understand that fashion is "about the joy of dressing up," but that doesn't mean we all weren't eager to hear a little more about why Marc Jacobs wore a skirt, and then a kilt. Thankfully, New York Mag got some answers. [The Cut]
Dismayed we were when we found out that the first U.S. Topman opening was pushed from October to November (get it together over there!), but, we can be slightly consoled knowing that the collections are available online for U.S. transaction. Prices are listed in dollars, not those pesky pounds, so if you're okay with paying shipping, click away. [Material Interest]
-- SETH PLATTNER
She's still doing her thang at Fashion Week, but is Anna Wintour (pictured) in danger of being replaced? It's a plot line straight from The Devil Wears Prada, but the unsubstantiated word is that Russian Vogue editor Aliona Doletskaya is after Wintour's job. Doletskaya says the rumors are "pure fantasy," but we say Anna should start mounting a good defense. [IHT]
While New York flutters with Fashion Week, Japan is setting their own fashion milestone with the debut of Vogue Hommes Japan, which sought some of the biggest names in the industry (including Hedi Slimane) to curate its conception. The world of men's fashion should be ready for a big shake up for their tiny island, because if they issue is any indication, they're bringing their A game. [Material Interest]
Maria Cornejo is known vast and wide as a womenswear designer, but she sent two men's looks down the runway at her 10th anniversary show on Monday. A hint at things to come, perhaps? [Material Interest]
Giles Deacon is most certainly in preps for his womenswear show for upcoming London Fashion Week, but we're much more excited about the news that he's also doing a men's line! First he started a jewelry line, but, apparently not feeling quite spread thin enough, he's got a menswear collaboration with London retailer New Look that will hit stores in November. We're thinking a trip across the pond is in order. [British Vogue]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
It was apparently a battle royale last night trying to get into the Marc Jacobs party. John Cameron Mitchell, Michael Pitt and Elijah Wood all had to fight their way into the most exclusive party of the night. Let's hope things don't get nasty at the Prada party, too. [The Cut] and [WWD]
Aside from the party itself, we wonder if Marc showed up in the skirt he wore for his runway bow after the show. What was he thinking? "It's about the joy of dressing up." Well played, Mr. Jacobs. [Material Interest]
Rumors are still flying that Thakoon started almost an hour late because of Kanye West (at left),
but Thakoon Panichgal himself claims it was because of late models. I
understand you have to maintain the respect of your celebrity
clientèle, but the fact that there are about, oh, 200 witnesses from
the show that watched Kanye waltz in 57 minutes late seems to quash
pretty much any excuse. [WWD] and [The Cut]
Maria Sharapova, who's been gallivanting around Fashion Week, is buddying up with Cole Haan to create casual sportswear looks for the label, 40 for women and 30 for men. Sharapova for men might seem odd at first, but, remember, she can grunt on the court with the best double XY's, so she might have something strong to offer. [WSJ]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
He hasn't even shown his Spring collection yet, but Thom Browne has already committed to showing his Fall collection at the Pitt Uomo trade show in Florence next season. It saddens me that we won't be treated to cropped pants, boy-cut blazers, and some crazy overcoat of questionable material (feathers? roses? human hair?), but those fearless Italians should cozy up to such designs quite nicely. [Material Interest]
Eric Wilson, ever ready to give his opinion over at the New York
Times, reviews the men's collections shown thus far at New York Fashion
Week. Surprisingly, he keeps the verbosity to one page. [NYT]
Given that Roger Federer has been stuck on the court during Fashion Week, Anna Wintour had to find his arm-candy replacement, and that man might be Justin Timberlake. She was seen congratulating him after the William Rast show and overheard saying to Timberlake, "Can we get together soon?" [Fashion Disclosure]
Also from the William Rast show, crowd-goers were confused and slightly put-off when Timberlake refused interviews and opted out of performing, despite heavy handed rumors he was going to take the stage at the end of the show. Wonder what made him so shy all of a sudden? Was he smitten over Anna's invitation? [WWD]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
> A forecast for possible flash floods left us daydreaming that the Rock & Republic
show would turn into a water park, rivers rushing through those flappy
white walls, models shrieking, editors taking off their Louboutins to
avoid water damage -- and (hey, it's our fantasy!) Chace Crawford (left) in
a wet t-shirt, offering to run away with us to dry ground. Reality was a bit of a let-down:
No flood and not much new or exciting on the runway either. But we did
spy Chace, Mary-Kate Olsen and John Legend backstage.
> Marc Jacobs model (and Popnog fave) Cole Mohr didn't walk at Obedient Sons and Daughters, scoring instead a seat in the crowd. Looked cute and somewhat disheveled.
> We hear Dolce & Gabbanna stole all the thunder (and A-listers) from the Rag & Bone party...
> Do we give off some kind of vibe or something? A woman sitting next to us leaned over to ask, "How many of these models do you think are gay? I mean, gay or just really young..."
Previously on Scene...
Photo: Getty Images
> V Man model search winner Petey Wright
walked in Duckie Brown and Rag & Bone -- and he's even more stunning in
person, report Out's on-site staffers. Expect to see him everywhere.
> Speaking of Rag & Bone, last season we saw Gisele, Julianne Moore, Becki Newton and Anna Wintour sitting front row. This year? Only Charlize Theron and Stuart Townsend.
> HIV Plus cover boy & Project Runway designer Jack Mackenroth, backstage at Duckie Brown.
> Ugly Betty's nephew, Mark Indelicato, at the Perry Ellis show. Character research for Justin
or simply a shared love of fashion? We also saw him after Duckie Brown, scarfing free handouts of le petit ecolier cookies.
Photo: Getty Images
Rag & Bone opened up their first free-standing store in New York City's West Village. The reigning one-word review? Amongst others: fabulous! [The Cut]
Speedo offered to pay Michael Phelps $1 million if he got seven gold medals in Beijing. Well, he got eight and he got the dough, but, as any good-hearted athlete who is guaranteed millions upon millions more from other endorsements, he is donating the money to charity. Not a charity to help us all look that good in a Speedo, though. [DNR News]
Yves Saint Lauren head designer Stefano Pilati opened up to The New York Times Magazine, talking about everything from his sexuality to his keen fashion sense from the age of 9. Ever since his harsh sound bite about Tom Ford hit ("talented but not gifted"), we've been waiting for the rest. [NYTM]
Carlos Campos, noted menswear designer, is showing his first womenswear show in New York next week, but with an added twist: He'll only use black models. In a moment of "duh," Campos cited Iman as inspiration. [The Cut]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
Why bother trudging through midtown's muck and traffic to roll out your Spring 2009 collection at the Bryant Park tents when you can just do it in your living room? That's what John Bartlett was thinking when he decided to stage his eponymous line's show in his Greenwich Village duplex on September 4.
"In today's day when everything is so overhyped and overproduced, it's better to keep things smaller and personal where you can see the clothes," Bartlett told Fashion Week Daily. "With menswear, everyone knows each other and it can be kind of like a party."
Bartlett will spend the next few days readying both his collection and his home, which was designed by his partner John Esty. "I'm going to remove all the furniture, bringing in some lights and keeping things low tech," Bartlett said. But as is so often true, a little hard work now means a lot less later: "I love the idea of being able to wake up and not have to leave the house to do a show," he says. Which has us thinking if Bartlett keeps this up, and art truly does imitate life, we might have a fabulous Fall 2009 collection of chic footie pajamas to look forward to.
Stay tuned for more about this Out 100 alum -- we have an exclusive Q&A coming Thursday at Out.com.
-- NOAH MICHELSON
Craving a sneak peek of what's to come at New York Fashion Week? Thirteen of the most anticipated menswear designers gave glimpses of what their collections will look like coming down the runway in a mere three -- yes, three -- days. [The Upgrader]
Leading the brigade of menswear designers to watch is Spanish/British visionary Aitor Throup, whose provocative style is just as interesting as his conceptual process: releasing a single outfit every season, with the whole process becoming the product. Sounds ballsy. [The Independent]
Smell This: Gant will release a new men's fragrance next month called Gant Silver. Developed by Richard Herpin, who says his aim was to create a scent "that
would strike the right balance between the crispness of the outdoors
and the mysterious yet elegant nature of the Gant man." [Now Smell This]
It's hard to improve a classic, but Converse is giving it a shot. In celebration of the iconic shoe brands centennial, they're taking designs from their archive and giving them a do-over, which, for the most part, is making for some eye-catching footwear. Some are only seeing limited releases in Tokyo, so brush on your Japanese if you're dying for a pair. [Material Interest]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
Behind every demi-god designer stands a brilliant business partner. But how much do you know about Robert Duffy? It's hard to imagine anyone else having a hand in the Marc Jacobs empire, but in his New Yorker profile, MJ's other half has just as much to say, and do, about the unstoppable label. [The Cut]
Karl Lagerfeld sat down with the UK Times for his own all-about-me chat. What did we learn? He wears his shoes too small, he hates intellectuals, and he won't tolerate smelly journalists. He's just like us! [UK Times]
Boys, the rapture has come -- Madonna is officially on tour! And, after much pre-show debate, the sets, the music, the designer label costumes, and the yummy dancers do not disappoint. Note: Need tickets, am desperate. [The Cut]
For those of us in a panic about how to look our best during the upcoming onslaught of Fashion Weeks, Vanity Fair is here to help. In true we-know-better-than-you-do VF style, they've offered this brief, yet just-pretentious-enough list of what we all need to make through the week on our high-paying writer/editor stipends. [VanityFair.com]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
> Nelly's new underwear ads revealed: This is the first time Sean Jean appoints a spokesperson for underwear -- but why is Nelly (who will strip down shirtless with little provocation) still wearing pants in this campaign?
> Justin Timberlake to show during New York Fashion Week: The pop star will grace the stage at Roseland Ballroom to perform in tandem with the runway presentation of his William Rast line.
> Barneys Warehouse Sale: Don't miss this yearly event. Doors open on Thursday, August 14 at 8 a.m. sharp!
 Photo: Getty Images
Making waves across the pond is Prince Charles'--yes, that Prince Charles--five piece organic skin treatment set called Highgrove, named after his estate in Gloucestershire. It's already widely sold out across the continent, and we hope it works miracles because God knows Camilla's hurting for one. [WWD]
Annoyingly ubiquitous Justin Timberlake will headline the Conde Nast benefit, Fashion Rocks, on September 5th, which is oh-so-coincidentally the start date of NY Fashion Week. Sounds like someone could use a little lesson in saturation. [Fashionista]
The tattoo-inspired inaugural fragrance launch from Ed Hardy by Christian Audigier was so successful he'll launch a follow up pair of men's and women's fragrances this December. Nothing like a new scent for the holidays to cover up the desperate smell of alcohol and bitterness. [WWD]
While at first they were glad to get some well-received coverage when Agnyess Deyn fronted for one of their songs, bandmates of Five O'clock Heroes are now getting a little tired of being overshadowed by all the attention her one tune, "Who," is getting. The model shadow does loom large indeed. [Contact Music]
As if designing clothes isn't time consuming enough. ADAM designer Adam Lippes will launch a blog on his website, shopadam.com. I'm sure it will be great and all, but never forget where your allegiances lie, bitches...[WWD]
To commemorate the brand's 40th anniversary, Calvin Klein will stage a full-scale menswear show next February during New York Fashion Week. Normally shown in Milan, it's about time Mr. Klein shed that hoity-toity attitude and came home. [DNR]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
When designers branch out into markets that are hardly their own, it's always fun to see if it's going to be a success or a train wreck. With that in mind, who's not excited to see the mock-ups of Roberto Cavalli's new dance club in Dubai? The rendering looks cheap, and we don't see any animal print in the interior decoration! Honestly, Roberto--abandoning you morals so quickly? [The Cut]
Simon Doonan and longtime partner Jonathan Adler will tie the knot in California in mid-September. Ever the quipster, Doonan is foregoing a big bash, saying "I always thought we were married, so I don’t feel like celebrating the
fact that the government’s allowing me to think I’m married. It’s more
like paying a parking ticket.” A long, long overdue parking ticket, sir. [The Cut]
Christian Siriano, everyone's favorite androgynous pixie, has unveiled his new line on Bluefly.com as part of his winning package from last season's Project Runway. It's cute stuff if you need to suggest a few things for the drab hag in your life, and each piece has Siriano-esque names such as "Posh" (who is one of his biggest supporters) and "Transylvania." As long as there's no "fierce" I'm fine. [NYT]
Men's Fashion Week is underway in New York, and I'm sitting here blogging about it rather than sitting there watching....which was not the case last year...excuse me while I make a few calls. [Material Interest]
In case you were wondering, Girogio Armani wears a speedo. You go, girl! [Socialite Life]
Mike Albo goes on a gay shopping adventure in Provincetown for The International Herald Tribune...and doesn't make it much farther than Marc by Marc Jacobs. [IHT]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
While we are sometimes uncomfortably aware of the ubiquitous black framed glasses, Sol Moscot is offering their signature frames in a variety of fun, fruity colors such as peacock, cerulean, orchid, and golden olive for the summer. Note to consumers: the colored frames retail for $220 while the black versions are only $169. The rainbow road can be rough sometimes, no? [Material Interest]
As when any celebrity attends a designer fashion show, pictures of the notable star in attendance go public in no time, much to the pleasure and gratitude of the lable. But, it turns out Kanye wasn't galavanting around Paris just to see clothes, but rather to debut his own. Many of the looks he wore throughout the week were actually sneak peek items form his upcoming line, Pastelle. [LA Times]
Olympic medal hopefuls Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte swam a few laps, romped in the shower, and, of course, did it all topless and in speedos for a Men's Journal photo shoot. It all feels a bit softcore, and we're entirely ok with that. [Towleroad]
Roberto Cavalli, citing bad market timing, has opted not to sell his company. Stripes, leopard print and paisley forever! [WWD]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
Sometimes brand new jeans are just too stiff, and those "vintage" type jeans are just too, well, vintage. Leave it to denim superstars A.P.C. to develop a middle man. Newly introduced are their Butler Worn Out series of denim, which are pairs of jeans worn exactly one time before being sold to consumers. [Material Interest]
Naomi Campbell will not be going to prison for her violent outburst on a British Airways flight. Instead she just lands a spread in Vogue Italia. [WWD] and [Fashionista]
New York City was named, for the fourth year in a row, the best fashion city in the world according to a survey by a U.S.-based language use group. Like, duh. [tmtbox]
Those ever resourceful Indonesians are using leftover, discarded and found materials to make trendy and affordable garments in a new movement called "trashion." The bag lady on my corner who drinks bleach told me "homeless-chic" would be all the rage this season. [MSNBC]
I noted last week that Stockholm was embarking on their annual fashion week as well; and, though noticeably overshadowed by the big boys in Milan and Paris, Acne S/S 09 showed some muscle in Sweden. Maybe next year they'll move to the majors? [Material Interest]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
The men's shows in Paris ended yesterday and we're still in a fashion flurry. Word on the rue is that Galliano's show was not to be missed...for whatever reason. [The Cut]
Photographer Nick Night got out his address book to hit up some of his fabulous designer friends for their "talents" in the deejay booth. He'll feature some big names (Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney, Naomi Campbell among others) to spin live on his website, Showstudio.com, starting July 9th. The thought of Naomi Campbell with an EP in her hand is a scary thought. Heads could literally roll. [WWD]
Prada had skirts for men last Spring; this season we've already seen man clutches and man wedges; and now, the latest feminine trend to show in Europe? Man leggings. And I always thought menswear set the trends for womenswear. Lindsey Lohan must be so excited. [The Cut]
Kanye West was seen around Paris with a mystery fashion friend in tow. Who could he be? A female presence has been noticeably absent in Kanye's life, and if the boy finally did finally pick up the bat for the other team, let's hope it's not this guy. [The Cut]
Speaking of Mr. West, he's now reportedly working on his own shoe line with Louis Vuitton, which will be followed by a womenswear line this fall. Kanye, baby, we're all waiting for you outside that big fashion closet you so resiliently reside in. [Fashionista]
Thom Browne and Brooks Brothers have extended their deal to keep Mr. Browne on as a guest designer until at least 2011 for the Brooks Brothers Black Fleece collection. He's also expected to reveal plans for a freestanding Black Fleece store in NYC's Greenwich Village. Wall Streeters now have three more years to look a little bit cooler. [DNR]
Photo: Getty Images
Spring fashion continues with new collections from some of our favorite designers in Paris (Louis! Dries! Dior!). And--good news--man purses are showing up in the City of Light, too! [The Cut] and [Men. Style.com]
And, here's a nice tidy round-up of the trends from Milan because we were too busy celebrating gay pride with tens of thousands of our closest friends to write one of our own. [Refinery 29]
Two more images from David Beckham's Armani underwear campaign have been released, much to our excitement. He's just so so yummy. [Towleroad]
The poster boy also wrote a nice little blog about his bulge. We've noticeable already done so...[David Beckham Blog]
--SETH PLATTNER
A member of the Milan council is lashing out against Vivienne Westwood's use of Roma gypsies in her most recent fashion show, saying she is adhering to a "romantic"
image of the Roma that "no longer corresponds to reality." Romantic? Last time I was in Rome my cellphone was snatched off a table by one of these gypsie folk, so I say put them on the catwalks and keep them off the streets! [Telegraph UK]
Perhaps one of the most anticipated campaigns in the fragrance world, Justin Timberlake's shots for Givenchy are getting out there. Gosh, he's just done so well getting that pensive model look down that says "I'm better than you." [Just Jared]
In other fragrance campaign news, now that JT is flaunting Givenchy, Josh Harnett has now been completely forgotten in the Armani Diamonds for Men ad. Shafted again. [Now Smell This]
With Roger Federer hammering his way through Wimbledon right now, Anna Wintour has been seen gallivanting throughout Milan with 300 hottie Gerard Butler. She claims it's to attend a Men's Vogue event in honor of Butler and also to scout a location for a Vogue photo exhibit, but, even the nastiest of succubus need to get some. Go on and getcha some! [Fashionologie]
Rumors have been flying, and now they are substantiated that Michael Jackson is working on a unisex clothing line (collective "oh no..." please). Working with Christian Audigier, the designer said “It’s the merging of the King of Pop with the king of fashion. Something explosive is going to happen.” Yeah, something explosive like diarrhea. [The Cut] via [Off the Rack]
It's not too often that men consider the "stance" of their shirt buttons, but Jerry Seinfeld didn't mention "the second button" in the final episode of the series for nothing. As he said, “it literally makes or breaks the shirt.” [NY Times]
One of the biggest trends coming from Milan during the men's fashion shows? Torso tattoos. Yes, it turns out designers like Vivienne Westwood, Etro and Giorgio Armani are inking the tightly toned and tan bellies of their runway models. Ugh, back to the gym. [The Cut]
Masculinity was the name of the game for most of Milan's designer fashions, and, as the shows have wrapped up, the reviews are now pouring in. Take notes, boys. Here comes Paris. [NY Times]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
Fulfilling reports last month, Josh Harnett can now be seen in the new fragrance campaign for Emporio Armani's Diamonds for Men. Meant to look like Harnett's being hounded by paparazzi, it comes off as wishful thinking because, really, who's following him around these days? [WWD]
Not only did Marc Jacobs drop the female gliterrati from his ad
campaigns, but it looks like he is doing away with female models all
together! For his Fall/Winter 08 collection he shot mens and womenswear on it-boy model Cole Mohr. With legs like his he should have been the one dangling them from a bag. Sorry, Posh. [Models.com]
Men's Spring 2009 ready-to-wear kicks off today in Milan, bringing next year's warm weather trends just as I'm getting ready to beef up my wardrobe with all the looks I saw for fall. I'll try not to get ahead of myself and stay in season, but Neil Barrett's collection is already pretty inspiring. [Men.Style.Com]
Slated to preview this week during the men's ready-to-wear shows in Milan is Prada's new men's fragrance, Infusion d'Homme. It hit's counters in September...[WWD]
...And Gucci will be ready with a rebuff. Frida Giannini had crafter her own scent for men that will also go public in September, and, with sales expected to reach $180 to 200 million, Prada better be ready for a throwdown. [WWD]
Creative Director Ricardo Tisci did wonders for womenswear at Givenchy, and now he is taking his eye for detail to his men's looks.
“My concept is to design styles for real men. Elegant, sharp, masculine clothes with a twinge of Latino street boy confidence." Que bueno. [DNR]
-- SETH PLATTNER
Photo: Getty Images
Can't find the light switch? Just turn on your wallpaper. A new wallpaper shown at the Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milan emits light in charming branch designs. It beats a mirror on the ceiling. [Engadget]
Oscar de la Renta designed First Daughter Jenna Bush's gown for her May 10th wedding. Someone is actually willing to marry into the family? Good look to that guy. [WWD]
Will Project Runway's move to Lifetime ruin the show? Will Sally Field become a guest judge? Will contestants design outfits for a Lifetime Original Movie? [NY Times]
Australian Fashion Week organizers have decided to ban models under the age of 16—but eating disorders are still okay. [WWD]
Rumors of Nina Garcia leaving Elle are still circulating like wildfire! [Jossip, WWD, FWD]
All Photos: Getty Images
Japan Fashion Week finishes tomorrow but we've got another sneak peek to help you make it through the weekend. For Gut's Dynamite Cabarets Fall/Winter 2008 Collection, the runway was packed with everything we love about Japanese fashion: vibrant colors, awesome patterns, piled-on accessories, and metallics galore! From the looks of it, the presentation is a tad reminiscent of Heatherette's over-the-top style.
More photos after the jump!
[Earlier: Japan Fashion Week Sneak Peek: Under Castle]
Continue reading "Japan Fashion Week Sneak Peek: Gut's Dynamite Cabarets" »
All Photos: Getty Images
Fashion Week in Japan is in full swing and features a ton of designers you've probably never heard of. The Japanese are such incredible innovators when it comes to technology and fashion—they did bring us Yohji Yamamoto, Junya Watanabe, Rei Kawakubo, and Harajuku style—so here's a sneak peek at what strutted down the runways in Tokyo for Under Castle's Fall/Winter 2008 collection.
More photos after the jump!
Continue reading "Japan Fashion Week Sneak Peek: Under Castle" »
Photo: Getty Images
Richard Chai to design a capsule collection of womenswear for Target as part of it's GO International program. Previous participants include Proenza Schouler, Rogan, and Jovovich-Hawk. Chai's collection is due out in August, but it won't be any fun for us boys. [Fashion Week Daily]
Abercrombie & Fitch tries to give back to the community by donating $10 million to a children's hospital, but the hospital might return it (with a receipt) because of pressures from 15 organizations like the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood, Parents for Ethical Marketing and several doctors who work at the hospital, claiming it sends the wrong message. Their ads and clothes are just too sexy, they say. I think it's safe to say A+F won't be posting any ads in the delivery rooms. [Fashionista]
New York Fashion Week will pack it's bags and move the tents from Bryant Park to the 10th Avenue Rail Yards after 2010. Talk about moving from the Penthouse to the Poor House. You can hear the confused fashionistas thinking "There's a 10th Avenue in Manhattan? I thought that was Jersey." Okay, so by then, the rail yards will be redeveloped into some prime real estate...maybe. [NY Daily News]
Riding high on the successful Richard Prince collaboration, Louis Vuitton is rumored to debut a new line of accessories tentatively called "Monogramouflage" (seriously!)—featuring the LV mongoram and a camouflage print designed by Takashi Murakami and our BFF Marc Jacobs—at the Brooklyn Museum of Art pop-up store on June 1st as part of the opening of Murakami's exhibit. [Fashion Week Daily]
In other Marc Jacobs-related news, his fiancé/boyfriend Jason Preston got in a late night scuffle outside a Chelsea club on Sunday after a drunken homo threw his drink at another queen and hit a woman instead. Preston, whose chivalry scores major points with me (Go Jason!), asked the guy to apologize to the woman and was fed a knuckle sandwich instead. The fight continued outside but Jason reports he's A.O.K. [Page Six]
Photo: Getty Images
Givenchy confirmed that Justin Timberlake will be the face behind their newest fragrance—slated to launch this fall. Does anyone still care about J.T.? What has he done lately other than give menu recommendations to unsuspecting patrons at his Manhattan restaurant? [Fashion Week Daily]
Boy band and reality TV refugee Nick Lachey threw a diva-style hissy fit at a JC Penney's launch event that he was paid to attend. He's just bitter that he only gets invited to D-List events. [Page Six]
Christian "Ferocia Coutura" Siriano, the peacocked hair diva designer Project Runway front runner, was awarded the title of "Fan Favorite" during last night's reunion episode and went home with a $10,000 check as big as his ego. Of course, I totally voted for him. [Popnography]
Editors at the Gucci womenswear presentation complained that the bold-patterned carpet on the runway made them nauseous from motion sickness. But I guess you'd have to actually eat something if you're going to lose your lunch. [Fashionista]
All photos: Courtesy of Kiehl's
Fashion Week is always a frenzied event. Designers rush like go go boys on diet pills to put the finishing touches on their collections, cast models, style the clothes, and make sure everything looks just right. As spectators, we aren't always privileged to see what happens behind the scenes and only watch the serene-faced models strut somberly down the runways. Luckily, legendary skincare and beauty brand Kiehls gave Out a backstage tour of all the last-minute preparations (with famed stylist Orlando Pita) at the Derek Lam show (yes, it's womenswear, sorry guys), where they tested their newest additions to the Ultra Facial collection of products—including the Ultra Facial Wash and Toner—on models. It beats animal testing.
More photos after the jump!
For more information about the Ultra Facial Collection, visit Kiehl's.com
Continue reading "Kiehl's Backstage at Derek Lam" »
All Photos: Getty Images
New York Fashion week might be over, but we're still bringing you the best from the tents. Better late than never!
Rag & Bone's Fall/Winter 2008 show was quite possibly the most buzzed-about presentation at Fashion Week. The darlings of the fashion industry, British expats David Neville and Marcus Wainwright blended American romance, classic English schoolboy charm and military utilitarian style into one beautifully cohesive, crave-worthy collection.
Continue reading "On The Runway: Rag & Bone Fall/Winter 2008" »
Photo: Getty Images
Nothing screams high-fashion like a great drag queen. Take New York City drag queens Brandy Wine and Brenda A. Go-Go as prime examples. Their getups for Marc Jacobs' Fall 2008 presentation Moet & Chandon party on Friday night left even the most daring of fashionistas feeling a bit tame when they eyed Brandy's cotton-candy pink wig (the higher the hair, the closer to Jesus, I like to say), the metallic silver handbag, the prism-like dress and sensible heels. And Brenda almost fits right in with the fashion crowd in her two-tone pumps, pleated skirt and keylime top.
CORRECTION: Sorry Lady Bunny! Getty Images mislabeled the image.
Nina Garcia, Michael Kors, Victoria Beckham and Heidi Klum judge one of the final five. Photo: Getty Images
Project Runway recorded its final fashion show today in Bryant Park! It was a celebrity-studded with Victoria "Posh Spice" Beckham (the guest judge), Tyson Beckford, Niki Taylor, Padma Lakshmi, Harvey Weinstein, and many Project Runway alums in attendance. For the first time, five designers showed collections—so as not to spoil the next episode. After the episode that aired on Wednesday night, Rami, Chris, Christian, Sweet P, and Jillian were still vying for the top three spots but all five showed collections in the tents this morning.
Attending the show was quite exciting. Nine-hundred Project Runway fanatics filed into the Tent at Bryant Park abuzz with the latest gossip from Wednesday's show when Ricky was sent home. Every person in the room whispered their guesses for the final three and most people seemed in agreement that it would be Christian, Rami and Jillian. So, imagine the surprise when the first designer to walk onto the catwalk this morning was Sweet P, whose tearful introduction charmed the audience.
Here's what your Stylelist saw on the runway this morning:
Sweet P: Sweet P's collection was much more refined than much of what we saw on the show but it also came across as a little mish-mashy with fits of plaid and ruffles. It had a youthful feel but sadly lacked a real wow-factor that Sweet P fans were hoping for.
Chris: Chris March's collection was surprisingly vampish and gothic—and of course, a little costumey. Tons of velvet, jeweled crosses,and smoldering red hues.
Jillian: Jillian always delivers ultra-wearable and consumer-friendly pieces that always feature excellent details. It certainly had a Ralph Lauren/Club Monaco feel at times (which is not surprising considering she worked for Ralph Lauren prior to the show).
Rami: Always glamorous with flowing, draped gowns, Rami is a red carpet dream. His collection was stunning, with a deep blue and green color palette. Woven details, beautiful layering,
Christian: Always up for the dramatic. Christian took a major couture-style turn with some jaw dropping looks complete with exaggerated ruffle skirts and collars, oversize hats, and tons of feathers.
Stay tuned for more photos as they hit the wires!
UPDATE! More photos after the jump!
The sea of Project Runway fans inside the tent before the show. Photo: Nick Burns
Continue reading "Blogging from the Project Runway Finale" »
Photo: Getty Images
Here's a sneak peek or the Fall/Winter 2008 Marc by Marc Jacobs collection!
What do you think? Post a comment with your critique!
Continue reading "On The Runway: Marc by Marc Jacobs Fall/Winter 2008" »
All Photos: Getty Images
Diesel unveiled it's much-anticipated higher-end Black Gold collection to much fanfare yesterday on the runways in Bryant Park.
In a pared down presentation, the collection, designed under the creative direction of Wilbert Das, was displayed on a stormy gray runway with real photographers on one end and a wall of fake paparazzi—complete with flashing strobe lights to mimic the flashbulbs—on the other.
Overall, the collection was a love letter to the 80s with a Mad Max twist, and included soft lines, voluminous silhouettes, tons of layering, awesome subtle detailing, neutral colors, oversize shirts and coats, and denim-on-denim looks. Most obvious in the mens looks were the elongated silhouettes of long, untucked shirts and knitwear (cardigans and plunging v-neck sweaters). It was a mature collection in the way that it that it focused on subtle details, hidden hardware and a reserved color palette.
Diesel Black Gold is a fantastic collection that truly captured Diesel's subversive and irreverent style for a higher-end customer that appreciates edgier, fashion-forward looks but doesn't necessarily want to dress a young 20-something.
More photos after the jump!
Continue reading "On The Runway: Diesel Black Gold Fall/Winter 2008" »
All Photos: Getty Images
Aspen will never be chic-er than next fall. Nautica's fall/winter 2008 ski-inspired sportswear was something that every snow bunny must have. Bright colors carried over from this spring will heat up the slopes. A sure way of catching someones eye so you can heat up the sheets. —Seth Howard
More photos after the jump!
Continue reading "On |
Photo: Getty Images
