TOM FORD: ULTIMATE PURVEYOR OF LUXURY

Style and Business savvy TOM FORD here speaking to Suzy Menkes (one of the upper style journalists) at 'International Herald Tribune's luxury conference' in Moscow.

MS R NEWS BITS

I'm constantly reading, reading, and more reading to stay informed. (Gramps always reminds me to breathe current events) So I decided to add a new feature: NEWS Bits. In bit-size wording, (one or two-liners) I'll give you newsworthy happenings and their corresponding links. I'm not not a black-and-white thumb pager reader but more of the average JOE subscriber who takes in the whole gamut: Blogs, Websites, Radio, Publications and other various news sources.

Today's NEWS Bits-- 2/13/08

Top Shop comes to Soho District. Step aside H &M (Uniqlo don’t slip guys), the real uber-retail chain is entering onto the strip.

Roger Clemens: Baseball great denies using steroids and growth hormones.

Michelle Obama hits the presidential campaign trail for hubby.

News Corp. says YAHOO?

Cut down the unwanted pounds with your cell phone

My neighborhood gets even more Flea-y. Come over and visit.

STYLE STRAIGHT FROM THE QUEENS COUNTRY

My friend (business confidant and homie) Zandile Blay (fashion writer and Glam network blogger—The Blay Report ) is currently abroad in London studying for her Masters at Central Saint Martins. I noticed her ‘5W style’ reporting from London Fashion Week on PAPER magazine website.

Quick sidebar: Doubling academia and covering London fashion week. Talk about structure and [fashion] balance.

As I navigated her entries, I noticed two MaleStyle Review—potential or current—readers who spoke sartorial volumes with their appropriate ensembles.

**All below contents—text and imagery—is copyrighted to PAPER Magazine and writer Zandile Blay. MaleStyle Review has no affiliation or involvement with content or publication (only direct commentary under photo).

His pairing is cool, but the color combination is even cooler! Not traditional color blending; it works however on David!

The full length shot.

David 'gets it' with this LV goodie.

WHO: David
WHERE WE FOUND HIM: In the International Press Lounge at London Fashion Week
THE LOOK: Blazer by Simon Carter; cardigan by Button; tie is vintage; jeans by Prada; shoes by Top Shop; bag by Louis Vuitton
WHAT SHOWS HAVE YOU SEEN SO FAR? John Rocha and Betty Jackson

Nice Jacket! I think the metallic top button is all positives for this look.

Patent English Steppers never looked so comfortably worn. Also, reminiscent of current A. McQueen styles.

WHO: Robb Young

WHERE WE FOUND HIM: Outside the Krystof Strozyna show

THE LOOK: Blazer by Alexander McQueen; pants by Jens Laugesen; shoes by Patrick Cox; bag is vintage.

WHAT DOES THIS OUTFIT SAY ABOUT YOU? "Over-polished, with a lot of shrapnel."

GRAMMYS SPOTLIGHT

First off, can I say kudos on so many levels to Kanye for his tribute to Donda (late mother for anyone wondering) West. No lie, the emotional rendition rocked my core. And so did every other attendee sobbing and in ovation to Kanye. Also, you clothes fiends (talking to myself too) wasn’t Kanye’s outfit fresh tech-savvy! The glasses alone had me gawking and ogling for a logo.

I normally tune in to pre-coverage on E! to get outfit close-ups. However, family dinner at Grandmas only allowed only me to ketch the last half. Honestly, I didn’t really mind because I was feasting on grandmas' succulent curry chicken.

Ok, back to the GRAMMYS…

So our rehab girl—Amy Winehouse—won golden (5 trophies) last night. Unfortunately because of a late arriving Visa, she had to perform in London. Following her was Kanye West with 4 record players. Ok, I’m stopping the news reporting and more style reviewing.

I only caught a few gents on the pre-show, but saw more shots via-online: WIREIMAGE and Getty.

Here are my thoughts on the GENTS of the night.

Daughtry

I like the fact Daughtry was eclectically fashionable. Each gent had their distinct style offering.

Chris Brown w/ Fergilicious

Chris Brown customized out in a red/white three-piece. I respect the accessory pairing (belt) as well.


Jay-Z

Jay sporting the Oscar-esque look. Jay's definitely in his own style class on the carpet.

Let's not overlook the glistening brooch on his right lapel.

A Mod looking Mark Ronson

Will.I.Am in refine tailored separates. I thought this getup should have been sans aviators.

John Legend

MS R favorite of the night! The underneath arrangement looks like fabric styled into a shirting effect. The lily-white pocket square and slim fitting bachelor vest is a true channeling of ‘The Great Gatsby’! A true style legend indeed on the carpet.

THE BELOW RECEIVED TWO STYLE THUMBS DOWN FROM MS R. YOU CAN CLEARLY IDENTIFTY WHY.

MS R SWEAR THESE ARE SPRING MUST-HAVES

What great design craftmanship, huh?

Let's get up close.

Scouring the net for spring/summer footwear gems I bucked into these patent freshies.
(The patent styles above are not available as yet. I’m confident Opening Ceremony in NY or L.A. will stock certain styles/colors.)

“Simply, Amazing.” The only words that bears forth.

I became familiar with SWEAR (written as S***R) last summer and I’m always thrilled to see their seasonal collection. Why do I swear by them? I’ll tell you: I love their sneaker/wingtip hybrid aesthetic. I was a little disappointed to see many other brands copying SWEAR’S (PUMA X Alexander McQueen design collaboration) identity.

Why pay for carbon copies when this Brit brand makes them readily available across web lines.

Cool style for South Beach

ZOË KRAVITZ: ALL GROWN UP

A youthful (not juvenille) looking Zoë .

A one time Daddy's girl.

Zoë Kravitz: The girl who everyone secretly envied for having über parents (Lenny Krav. & Lisa Bonet). I came across this photo from the GUCCI U.N. Dinner (the hottest event last week for fashionites) hosted by legendary pop star sensation—Madonna. Seeing her with my raw eye I didn't even recognize her; it was only after seeing a photo caption. As she matures, it’s evident she’s a bona fide über creation.

In the words of ‘The-Dream’, “Zoë is a ten, a ten.” Lol.

LENS: FASHION WEEK

The GENTS were crushing NY Fashion Week, and I definitely dug it!!

Although, the week was overpowered by females and their design counterparts that didn't mean the guys fell to the curb. We displayed effortless swagger--NYC style. We're not competing to win fashion-best (ladies reading), we're just adding our style seasoning to the pot.

Many people missed NYC fashion week (especially MS R out-of-town readers), so I wanted to give them a glimpse of how us gents look presentable and focus attending the shows. Send over your shots--candid or professional--to malestylereview@gmail.com and I'll post them up for readers to see and comment.

To kickoff things, the below photo is of Alexander Allen, celebrity stylist and former magazine editor.

Someones neck is expensively warm? lol.

(Photo #2) Andre 3000

Sporting great casual-equestrian!

(Photo #3-Added 2/12)- Mr. Williams
Went against the fashion grain for the GUCCI event and still championed!
Mr. MS R--"Big fan of the classic round toe lace-ups he's sporting."

CHANGE: YES WE CAN AMERICA

WE CAN CHANGE OUR SITUATION AND SEE NEWER POSSIBILITIES.

"Nothing can stand in the way of the power of a million voices calling for change."

The "Yes We Can" Montage

FALL '08 MENSWEAR RUNDOWN

The fiery FALL [menswear] shows sadly wrapped this past Friday. Tomorrow though, the shows land down with a whopping “cheers!” in London. The fashion frenzy in NYC excited the masses; even First Lady—Barbara Bush! And to add, off-site shows were doubly fun! With so many shows digested, I’ll only recap my favorite (as promised from a previous post) top four shows: Y-3, DKNY, Patrik Ervell (longtime MS R favorite) and Sean John (energized show).

Y-3

A pinch of sky-blue and Y-3 uppers will make any FALL day design hookup fresh!

Adidas + eccentric Yohji Yamamoto fashion brainchild, Y-3, featured ‘07 sameness with jazzed up new fabrications (bold plaids and refined wools). Accouterments (recycled and exact styling from fall ‘07) included rock size beads sported through pants loops and unbuckled belts exposing a bold Y-3 logo. Their recyclable looks weren’t heavy laden on the runway entirely. Fall inspirations slid down the polar ice-esque backdrop runway smoothly: Patent lightweight luxe bombers (think, Moncler); forest green jacket/pants suits, sharply cut blazers with fleece piping. Active wear pieces included cashmere cargo's atop signature Y-3 uppers and Lycra mix sporty knits under sweeping coats. Despite the collection rerun, Y-3 is the only design force who I think can incorporate ‘sporty’ and ‘design’ functionality.

Y-3 Favorite:

DKNY

Donna Karan: Delightful D. Some might rant she’s just a creative director and not designer. Mr. MS R strongly begs to differ. Donna designs for the customer; she intuitively understands their wardrobe. I was highly impressed with the menswear numbers at her show earlier in the week. She didn’t forget us gents for fall (personal feelings from previous seasons) and the shown menswear palette was my reinforcement. A wide blend of men getups came forth with unified appearances: Classic American. Fall hues (browns, grays...) and punches of bright oranges infused the already-loud burnt-orange runway. The stronger looks identified included single breast blazers pairings with chunky knits and slim dark ties. I would have preferred to see more pants colors or style options. The monochromatic denims just weren’t cutting it—for Mr. MS R.

Overall, I’m team Donna for FALL and look forward to seeing spring in September.

DKNY Favorites (I couldn’t choose only one):

Patrik Ervell

I met Patrik Ervell briefly at Opening Ceremony (coolest boutique in NY) last summer. And I understood then, why he and his über-cool merchandise were reverberating all over fashion-sphere. His collection in short was GOLDEN! “Simply,Golden” as Jill Scott, sings. The collection offered contemporariness and youthful edge. Most of Patrik’s runway designs (all superb craftsmanship and detailing) were catchy and would hearten any fashion viewer to nab his designs on-the-spot. A lot of the wearable pieces previewed in normal fall colorways: Beiges, Browns, and Heather Grays. And just added: a luster GOLD.

Patrik Ervell Favorite:

Sean John

Sean Combs returned and [unfortunately] didn’t bring the HEAT as I would have wanted. Don’t get me wrong gents, there were some amazing looks (like purple number shown below)—just not many strong ones. Let’s talk about the pre-show madness (Diddy acting a total clown for his “hopeful reality show” cameras) that occurred backstage at Sean John. Tyson chatted up everyone (a true host; not just for TV) while newly weds Chris Ivery and cutie-pie (smiles) Ellen Pompeo previewed the line before the glitzy spectacle. Also chopping it up at the CIROC (Diddy’s new business partnership) bar was a well-groomed up K-Fed and Wilmer Valderrama. And cool-funny man Harvey Weinstein (co-revamped Halston brand—stay tune for future MS R post) along with Roberto Cavalli paraded before the show.

I felt Sean John's FALL line was a bit urban-Thom Browne. Something new, and extreme! I was expecting more from the casual sportswear brand—upping 03’s collection. But its fashion; I guess the high extremities were just that: High extreme. I wasn’t a fan of the asymmetrical cropped and certain floor-length looks—also the extra ruffle and big scarf embellishments. I was a gleaming fan though, of the dapper purple numbers and hyper-slim stately suits!

Another personal high note: Sean Combs honored ‘Black History Month’ by showcasing all African American models.

Sean John Favorite:

BEEN GONE FOR A WHILE; MR. MS R IS BACK WITH [CONTENT] FIRE

I've been absent from blog class for three consecutive days. However, I have excuse notes for all three days: Gathering Content, Content, and more Content. Also, getting the some R+R (it was needed. as you'll see in above photo) Stay tune for menswear fashion week reviews; why MensHealth magazine got style (opt-out for less health) conscious?; VIBE Magazine represents Ralphie well; MJ is back (moonwalking baby) on the scene and so much more.......

See you shortly.

SUPER [VOTE] TUESDAY!

We clearly see who's #1 in this photo!

It’s finally arrived; after continuous political politics. ‘Super Tuesday’ reigns strong in many states tomorrow (20+). The best part of all the pre-ST momentum: The candid debates (CNN hosted some great ones). Tomorrow, make sure your vote-for-change voice is heard at the polls. Whoever you’re voting for (Team Barack’ or ‘Hil’ Yeah Clinton’) get behind the wheel of your presidential vehicle and drive into Change Ville, America.

DEMOCRATS GET IT, and I believe (overused word in presidential campaigning) you do too!

SUPER BOWL: NY OR NEW ENGLAND?

We're watching today and I know you're too!

Make sure you're plopped in front of your tubes, flat screens and projectors (bar viewers) for kickoff time (6:18pm). I have to say, this is the most-talked-about particular SB to date. Not even the Cowboys got so much verbal coverage. I wonder if it's because NY GIANTS are going to show football superhero Tom Brady (we can't afford him to receive a fourth title) who's in charge.

Whoever you're rooting for (BIG BLUE!!!) enjoy tonight's game and adverts.

GOOOOO BLUE!

JUST IN: 10:04PM

KNOW NEED TO RAMBLE ON TONIGHT'S AMAZING ROYAL BLUE VICTORY! CONGRATS "RESILIENT GIANTS"

FASHION WEEK: RéPONDEZ S'IL VOUS PLAîT

So I landed some insider information and invites (thanks PRADA!!!) for Fashion Week happenings that are cool and I thought you readers may enjoy!

**Note--Most are by invite only. MaleStyle Review should not be your affiliation at any of the below gatherings.

But if you’re daring this season take the chance!

Sunday (Today)

-Diane von Furstenberg dinner at the DVF Studio on 14th Street (adjacent to LOTUS).
-Rodnik performs at The Box (super-exclusive venue).
-Miss Sixty dinner at Socialista (ultra-hip locale).

Monday
-Halston party at Don Hill’s.
-Opening Ceremony (sidebar- O.C., is just that brand!) party for Chloé Sevigny’s line at Webster Hall.
-Chris Benz dinner at Bette.

Tuesday
-Rodarte dinner at Matthew Marks Gallery.
-Matthew Williamson party at Socialista (keep an eye out for my sunshine--Rihanna).
-PRADA screening of “Trembled Blossoms” at their Soho Store.
-Book signing at Bergdorf Goodman for Kenneth Paul Block (a former illustrator).

Wednesday
-Gucci dinner on the North Lawn of the UN (the most anticipated party of the week—Madonna, Demi, and Gwyneth are slated to show according to Gucci’s PR camp).
-Phillip Lim (definitely new and fresh talent) dinner at Socialista.

Thursday
-Calvin Klein dinner at the Waverly Inn

Friday
-Morphed Marc Jacobs’ event at 24 fifth.

Then the following Monday, Bill Blass’ Peter Som gets honored with a dinner at Saks Fifth Avenue.

That basically sums up my event wrap sheet. Hopefully, I will cross paths with you at one of these events.

If I don’t, have much fun this upcoming week!

GUCCI HEARTS NY!

Who doesn’t love the BIG APPLE?

Well GUCCI showed much appreciation to my hometown with ‘Gucci Loves New York.’ The marketer in me respects Gucci’s strong brand positioning and force with this marketing initiative. I’ve been a lover (ok, groupie) since High School of their thought-stimulating advertisement campaigns. The High School nostalgia re-emerged after seeing their new ad for Gucci Loves New York (pictured above) on the back cover of GOTHAM.

The Gucci hearts NY site is pretty fun and interactive. Check it out and see NY through the eyes of the luxury brand.

3-D model of new Gucci flagship in NYC.

BABY PHAT F/W ’08-09

It’s the hottest show ticket in [Fashion Week] town according to members of the press!

What’s so hot?! Everything: Great Music; Glitterati’s; Flashing Lights; Photogs. and everything else over-the-top.

There wasn’t anything adolescent about Kimora Lee’s Baby Phat collection this season. The ladies actually were looking right (smilessss) in wearable and salable garments. Past collections in my opinion were overly embellished and more customization inclined than actual ready-to-wear. But I digress, their menswear collection shown (Phat Farm) championed strong! The menswear design elements matured to grown-and-sexy (props K. Cheong)—no kidding around this season.

The overall menswear presentation was chill-luxe (Mr. MS R favorite getup). Polka dot ascots pairing with Satin Blazers and casual footwear came forward. To follow, pinstripe suit vests with selvage bottoms busted onto the runway. In addition, premium suiting and outwears made a grand appearance. Styled separates—for men and women—showcased unified looks on the models.

Kimora (and Russell) managed seamlessly to include the ‘Green Bracelet’ from their Green Initiative Jewelry Collection to compliment the gents’ sartorial attire.

Overall—I thought the collection grew and earned eye-takes from luxury retailers that looked before, but never purchased.

DUCKIE BROWN F/W '08-09

Duckie Brown Model

Design duo Steven Cox and Daniel Silver whipped out a strong and inspiring fall collection. The common thread with each constructed piece: Dark Colors. Duckie Brown ditched the loud plaids; psychedelic colors; briefs-with-woven looks; shapeless sweatshirts and everything else way too Fall eclectic. This year, the ready-to-wear pieces freshly represented fall—as it should.

After the first model touched onto the catwalk, all music being played ceased. I mean MUM, gents. Oxfords rhythmic tapping down the runway were the only noticed music. I thought the silence immersed a bevy of editors and patrons into the collection flowing before their pupils.

Color black was the dominant choice for the majority of looks. But lighter hues-light grays-also complimented the excessive black-on-blacks. Turning a new designing page still however included some introduction classics: Oversize tams (Brad Pitt + David Beckham rock these heavy) and crisp arrow shirts. Double breast and single breast mix-match suiting (I’m a fan of incorporating differentness ) offered a sly-cool to the collection. Coats (Bombers, Constructed Peas, Tailored Safari Jackets, Shearling, Windbreakers) were the essential pairing for Duckie’s fresh separates.

Another interesting pairing I seen was Luxe knapsacks. A few knapsacks jazzed up some looks I thought. Knapsacks I feel will become the new ‘male-bag’ for fall—just watch! I saw many pieces I wouldn’t hesitate to purchase on a whim. A sheer sweater (pictured above) however is still screaming at my wallet (will purchase if available at Duckie Brown’s famed sample sales).

Overall, I give big kudos to Steven + Daniel for a stately menswear fall collection.

I definitely look forward to Spring ’09…..

LLOYD BOSTON: STYLE EXPERT

Lloyd Boston is the truth; he really knows essential (male) style . Read below a recent article I came across on America's favorite "Style Guy."

Note**- The book that started everything for Mr. MS R!

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With the fashion industry significantly slanted towards women, simple yet stylish options for men seem like buried treasure amidst a sea of limited and often poor choices. The average man may not have fashion's latest and greatest too high on his list of priorities, however some men wonder if there is a way to stay stylish with minimal effort, and still be respected on both the sidewalk and the catwalk? Lloyd Boston, on-air fashion editor for NBC's ‘Today Show’ and author of the bestseller ‘Men of Color,’ and the highly acclaimed style guide ‘Before You Put That On,’ offers a few suggestions on the style matters for men who are looking for an effortless transition into spring and summer.

One key may be uniform styling. "I don't think style should become a part time job for anybody," says Boston. "I think when you understand what your investment pieces are, meaning your classics, which should be about 80 percent of your wardrobe, and what your trending pieces are, meaning your more trendy or seasonal items, that balance can make it so that you don't spend as much energy and effort getting dressed."

Boston helps the fashion inept with uniform styling via his website, LloydBoston.com, where he advises that although a great pair of fitting jeans is the start of any casual uniform, it shouldn't be the definition of it. "I think men are starting to see that dress pants aren’t reserved for dressy occasions," suggests Boston. "The man that knows the power of a tailored suit, whether he can afford a $200 suit or a $2,000 suit, he can invest in that and update it any season with interesting trends like a V-neck sweater or funk it up with a track jacket after a day in the boardroom."

For the more fashion forward gentleman who resists uniform styling, inspiration for fashion hints and tips are often gleaned from celebrities as they rip runways and red carpets across the globe, however the clothing that they are hawking may not be your best option. Spin off celebrity clothing lines are fast becoming a prerequisite for stardom. "Being a fashion designer or creating a clothing brand isn't something you do on the side. It isn't a part time job. If it were, Ralph Lauren would be starring in films and also recording an album,” notes Boston.

Though celebrities may not be bona fide pattern makers there are a few notable tastemakers Boston acknowledges for their signature personal style. “I like what Marc Ecko is doing with his secondary line. He has that street credibility, but he also understands the power of moving hip-hop ahead. Sean John has also grown up a lot. And he mirrors his personal style with pieces for the everyday man.”

Just as hip-hop has expanded its creative boundaries, its impact on men’s fashion has been undeniable. “I think Kanye West has been instrumental in allowing men to feel more comfortable expressing themselves through color and unexpected trends, but you can’t rule out Andre 3000 either. I think he was ahead of Kanye in showing you can mix traditionally feminine colors with classic men’s sportswear. Even some of the more hard core rappers like CamRon who wore pink, made guys in Harlem or the Bronx feel confident enough to do the same thing,” says Boston.

Whether they are the core of your wardrobe like blue suits, crisp white shirts and stately, silver, matte ties or the keys to signature style like traditionally feminine colors in men’s sportswear; deferring to traditionally classic styling can be the key to staying fashionable with minimal effort.

THIS WEEK'S MS R FUNNIES

This dance has zooooooomed everywhere!




Poor kid. MOM, you could not laugh so hard. In truth, my stomach is still hurting from watch this clip.

VICTORIA SECRETS TO FLIRT WITH SUPERBOWL VIEWERS

Victoria Secrets debuts back on the commercial roster for Super Bowl.

USA Today reported the luxe intimate apparel brand hasn’t produced a Super Bowl advertisement since 1999. I just hope the chain comes with likable content this year. You remember all the public and media scrutiny they earned in ’99. This year’s ad (G-Rated) will feature kitten Adrian Lima (pictured above).

"It has a very flirtatious, sexy tone but is different from our other ads.These are the only two times of the year when we talk to both men and women," says Jill Beraud, chief marketing officer for VS.

According to financial insiders, the Limited Brands company needs a Valentine boost. Sales have been lacking and they’re hoping Adrian Lima will catapult financial earnings.

Let’s see what Adrian will do!

Sidebar—who remember when Tyra Banks was VS top kitten? Before Bündchen and Selita began meowing the VS brand platforms.

FASHION WEEK HITS (BIG APPLE) NYC!!

Influencer's. Stylists. Tastemakers. Editors. Style Aficionados.

All are flocking to the ‘Tents’ and off site locations (as I type in noisy location) to check out what designers are bringing to our closets for FALL. Today, the continuous chilled rain and winds weren’t a deterrent to fashion week patrons. NYC is an exciting time around Fashion Week! Why? It’s nonstop ‘fashion’ energy and events throughout.

They’re over 80 designers showing this season (a lot of shows, huh?). Being logistically smart this season, I decided to axe certain shows and zone in mostly on men’s shows (Duckie Brown (this morning!!), Ralphie (Ralph Lauren) , Diesel (fun show!), Michael KORS, Lacoste, Alexandre Herchcovitch, Custo Barcelona, Sean John, Y-3, just to highlight a few. I’m attending some women shows (Baby Phat & Dianne Von Furstenberg (would marry DVF if Barry Diller wasn’t around.lol.) too. Besides, MaleStyle Review is male-driven so why deviate for Fashion Week.

As for the shows' post-parties (literally too many invites in MS R's e-mail) I’m not planning on attending a lot—the unnecessary politics isn’t needed this year. However, stay on board through fashion week for up-to-the-minute news. I’ll put my best efforts to post show images and commentaries following the shows.

In the meantime, read this interesting article I read on today’s FORBES.

Gotta run now…….