THE POWER[FUL]SUITS

What a busy week for Mr. MSR!

I have been slightly away and handling many interesting projects. One in particular, I'm thrilled to share once the pieces falls in together! With that said, I'm back with the content!

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The leaves are protruding from the branches while their accents-- bold flowers--are steadily blooming. Another telltale for Spring I'm noticing--all down Madison Ave and other posh avenues--are lighter-hued power suits with solid or striped contrast shirts.

If you're a product of 1980s you'll remember when Power Suits came onto the scene with their sharp cuts, broad shoulder pads (it beefed up the frame), and rigidness. According to men's fashion historical records, Ralph Lauren launched the 'Power Suit.' The term is explanatory: the designs provide a high level of prestige, power and classic refinement.

I'm all for the power suit--but only two-button single breast styles. Its slicker, very debonair-like and instantly whips your frame into sartorial-mode. I always say, "purchasing a power suit (have it tailored afterwards) that matches your shape and skin tone produce style-winners."

This Spring, take a powerful risk and nab unconventional shades Gents: Fiery red, chocolate, sky-blue(very Spring!), super-white (Diddy, watch out this year!), forest green, etc. In addition, cast away dispels of power suits having to color match. Mix matching colors is quite OK. Or if you prefer matching, turn your tailored separates (jackets, pants, and vests) into a power suit. No worries, I do both all the time and still execute the exact power suit silhouette.

Spring Power Suits I'm Enjoying:

A perfect example of a proper fitting power suit!

Wicked execution for the power suit hitting the town.

Stellar preppy/casual look here with the power suit.

Gents, I saw this video from GMA Weekend anchor (aired last week) speaking with DETAILS editor's discussing appropriate suiting for various shaped men. I thought it was a cool compliment to this entry. Enjoy!

DOLCE & GABBANA GETS VISUALLY VIRAL

Yesterday, prior to entering the luxury retail behemoth we NY’ers call ‘Saks Fifth Avenue’, Dolce and Gabbana’s new men’s fragrance “THE ONE” conquered the window displays. I mean, wraparound electronic window displays featuring their campaign video of the new scent. I’m not sure if you Gents knew, but D&G tapped Matthew McConaughey to be the spokes model for “THE ONE.” The video was pretty cool and I thought I’d share once I was able to track it down.

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

4/10/2008

In the Present

SEE THE WORLD LIKE IT IS

The truth is what it is.
It's neither good nor bad.
It's simple reality.

Tailor your concepts to fit reality,
instead of trying to stuff reality into your concepts.
No matter what you believe,
it won't change the facts.

If we all worked on the assumption
that what is accepted as true is really true, there would be little hope of advancement in the world.

Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored.
If fifty-million people say a foolish thing, it's still a foolish thing.
Successful people are realistic
and aren't trapped by false appearances.

Stay realistic on the road to success.

NEWS BITS

The best strangest show I seen last night! Check the three lovelies ,who in conjunction with others, made this Broadway show a smash hit!

Katie Couric planning to ditch the CBS news anchor desk.

Yahoo! even has News Corp. talking numbers and cents!

Digging this news: Prince to join Coachella Festival in California.

My favorite magazine adds new visionaries to the master head!

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

3/9/2008

In the Present

We Can't Escape

"Most of our obstacles would melt away if, instead of cowering before them, we should make up our minds to walk boldly through them."

-- Orison Swett Marden

We can’t escape problems and negativity. Escaping just brings denial and suppression - we continue to carry the problem with us (basically, the troubled past) . Ironically, it is our lack of acceptance and resistance to the problem that creates the pain. Resistance builds up an energy wall or block that, if not discharged, gets suppressed into the body. These blocks identify places where we have not enough understanding or love.

For health, we must work through what we seek to avoid. How do we do this? We can love parts of ourselves that we don’t like. We can seek the lessons we are being invited to learn through the problem. We can examine our beliefs and seek to see different perspectives and a bigger picture. As our perspectives grow, more of life makes sense and has meaning.

Eknath Easwaran once said, "The Lord is a good psychologist: he knows the way our minds run. Turmoil can be the Lord's way of tapping us on the shoulder and saying, 'Don't forget me."

NEWS BITS

The Olympic torch landed in San Fran despite the host of negativity around the ceremonies.

A memorial profile piece on the great Charlton Heston.

Kenneth Chenault: The best business executive we have out. Besides power suits, continuous executive awards, Harvard pedigree, the CEO of American Express keeps it flourishing. (I strongly encourage everyone to read the piece.)

A 23 year old Indian woman births healthy baby with two faces (literally). WOW!

The traditional interview norms went to the trash receptacle.

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

4/8/2008

In the Present

NEVER SAY NEVER


There is no such thing as no chance.
Don't think about the things you can't do.
Think about the things you can do.

No matter what the level of your ability, you have more potential than you can ever develop in a lifetime.

You have powers you never dreamed of.
You can do things you never thought you could do.
There are no limitations to what you can do except the limitations of your own mind.

Your range of available choices right now is limitless.
Look at things as they can be.

NEWS BITS

Mischa Barton overpasses JAIL time for DUI case. (Where was I? When did this happen?)

Take that Bloomberg! NY’ers is not paying to drive in our city.

Project Runways walks the catwalk of a new network. Weinstein & Co. (Harvey Weinstein Production Company) has tapped into Lifetime.

Alexander McQueen dazzles Melrose Place with his new 3,100 square-foot retail space.

Marc Jacobs, Tinsley Mortimer, Linda Evangelista, Kristin Davis, etc. all flock to Brooklyn for Takashi Murakami.

AFRICA THROUGH THE LENS

Larry and Stanley

Photographer's of Sankofa Series

A few Sundays back, I and a storm of comrades visited the “Sankofa Series” at Harriet's Alter Ego (retail space intertwined with art gallery ). Another comrade, Larry Ossei-Mensah (My Global Hustle), and his friend Stanley Lumax are the creators of this prolific series. The photog duo, displayed arresting documentary-style shots of the African culture—Ghana in particularly. I never traveled to the continent, but the soulful visuals encourage one to visit the mother land without qualms.

Exhibit patron analyzing photos.

Subject Kimathi (Jamhuri Wear) inset with exhibit portrait behind.

Each shot posses a strength and story that was clear. I think these are two attributes Larry and Stanley executes—strengths any photographer would want to convey. A market woman intensely scaling fishes to a well-built beautiful girl (think model Ajuma) who powerfully kicks a soccer ball (sans shoes at that) in a grass field were just a sample of what viewers took in.

Compelling Shots!

Sankofa Series was bustling with cool art lovers and style players. Also, people rocked (I caught myself bopping at one point) to good tunes. Along with the melodies, visitors were served the tastiest apps. I had instant flashbacks of family cooking just because of how amazing the chicken and bite-size fried filet's were.

Mr. MSR nestled between two lovelies.

Larry and Stanley posing with their crew.

The “Sankofa Series” is great exhibit that I would love to see make stops at various U.S. and African cultural institutions.

Post-exhibit shot.

OBSESSIONS!

Just look at it!

A more close-up shot just to check the details!

Last week during a taping break (stay tune for clip), I walked into the Ralph Lauren mini-mansion in SOHO (Madison ave. holds the larger mansion) just to see the new menswear collection(s) on-hand. Ralphie never fails with the offerings! It’s rad to see him conquer new design boundaries season-after-season. I toured the regal-like space and noticed many prospects, but no guarantees. Until that is, I saw my new OBSESSION and must-get: Ralph Lauren’s Black Label’s Monza II belted jacket.

At first glance from a distance, I figured it was part of the more athletic-inspired RLX collection. The jacket’s glistening buckle throat latch and hook-and-eye closure pulled me in like Scorpion from Mortal Kombat. The many dual flap pockets and grommet ventilations only heightened my impulses to purchase the investment piece.

The shop associates must have said “why is this guy inspecting the Monza like that?”

It’s classic. It’s wearable. It’s fresh-and-fly. It’s worth the 650+ tag. Lastly, it’s a Ralph piece you’ll always cherish—even at 65 years of age!

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

4/7/2008

In the Present

Self talk is revealing

"If you wish to know the mind of a man, listen to his words."

What passes over your lips each day?

Are your words typically negative, critical, gossiping, deceptive, illusory, justifying, blaming, manipulative and argumentative? Are they more uplifting, inspirational, positive, questioning, beautiful, loving, universal, truthful, accepting and supportive?

The throat is our center of expression. Who we are sneaks out in our attitudes and in what we say.

"Handle them carefully, for words have more power than atom bombs."

As said in the Holy Bible, "The wise weigh their words on a scale with gold."


NEWS BITS

I love Prince Charles’ new line of cufflinks. They are quirky and fun!

I thought I was doing IT! But these entrepreneurial youngsters proved me wrong.

The biggest polygamist scandal the U.S. has ever seen.

YAHOO tells MICROSOFT step your bid game up!

Jade Jagger partners with Belvedere to create “Jagger Dagger.” The title is very Purple Cowish. (google purple cow for meaning.)

TAKASHI MURAKAMI TAKES BROOKLYN BY ARTISTIC STORM

I had the exclusive opportunity Wednesday morning, to privy the much-talked about Takashi Murakami retrospective. @MURAKAMI is out-of-this-world! The celebrated, better put, acclaimed Japanese artist will be presented at the Brooklyn Museum from April 5- July 13, 2008. Being part of the PRESS junket, it gave me the ultimate freeness to interpret, photograph, and even question his distinctive artworks. The best part of it all, documenting images for the readers to enjoy and immerse in.

Dr. Murakami (get it right. Ph.D. alum of prestigious Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music) is cited as one the most powerful artists to have emerge from Asia in the late 20^th century. Takashi's skillful hands have shown me ‘anime’ (animation) in newer formations. Honestly, it’s unbelievable!

Takashi Murakami ‘trademark painting styles’ were streamlined through most of the life-size and photo frame measurement pieces on display. Relayed to the PRESS, “Murakami blends the bright palette of pop, the flatness of anime, and the ominous dreams of surrealism. In addition to Takashi’s paintings, his momentous pieces for Louis Vuitton are on display and for sale. For the ladies, I got inside scoop from the LV camp: A new camo bag design by Takashi is soon to debut. Brooklyn Museum is offering the collabo bag first anywhere, exclusively for 2 weeks, then afterwards it's onto select stores. After seeing the bag, my friend Z, said she think its going to be thenext “It-Bag” for the females.

In closing, I’ve included my favorite shots from the exhibit. If you’re planning on visiting NYC, or you reside here, definitely get your butt over to the exhibit.

Thanks to everyone at the exhibit: Mona Sharf at Louis Vuitton; The Brooklyn Museum Communications Department; Lifestyle and Culture Writer Zandile Blay and Takashi Murakami’s dope stylist—MSR reader—Alexander Allen.

PS: I didn’t make the gala last night but I’m sure we’ll see pictures and news bits circulating about Kanye’s awesome performance.

MR. MSR EXHIBIT CAPTURING :

My homie is very business-minded with the copyright [name] move!

Brace yourself for this title:
"That I may time transcend, that a universe my heart may unfold."

DoB (Alter ego for Takashi) balloons.

Louis Vuitton lock and key bow pocketbooks!
All monogram created for Louis Vuitton by Mr. Murakami.

Mr. MSR had to get a shot in! lol.
Posing alongside "Melting DOB."

"Super Flat Jellyfish"

"And Then, And Then, And Then And Then," '96.

"Tan Tan Bo Puking."

The BEST piece for last. Its FIREEEEE!

UPDATE: Kanye gave a great show for last night's Gala attendees. Take notice!

Quick gala recap for the viewers! Marc Jacobs was channeling hardcore "Miami Vice."



Entry Extension:

Jay-Z, although co-chair didn't make a big entrance last night. Why not make a presence if your co-chair right? I'll tell you why--Jay tied the knot with "Beautiful B" tonight at their penthouse in Tribeca. Tribeca was a paparazzi mosh pit for the tight-lip nuptials.

NEWS BITS & IN THE PRESENT

4/4/2008

In the Present

SUCCESSFUL PEOPLE MAKE DECISIONS

To control the outcome of anything,
you control the action at the point of decision making.
If you let others make decisions for you, you give up control.
When you control the decisions, you control the actions.

It's your life. You decide what you're going to do with it.
If you don't run your own life, someone else will.
You're in control of your life to the degree that you make decisions.

Take charge of your life, so there is no longer a need to ask permission of others.
When you ask permission, you are giving someone veto power over your life.

Take control and start making those decisions.
Only you are responsible for your life.

NEWS BITS

Clarence Jones pens new book that honors pal Martin Luther King, Jr.

Three giant record companies join collaborative efforts with Myspace for music website.

The Chinese government slams three year jail term on noted activist.

Jay-Z is always flowing where new money rest! Madonna, U2, and the others cant knock your hustle..ehhm.. I mean swag.

Simple tips on receiving your rightful bonus from boss man.

RALPH LAUREN: MSR LOVES BLUE LABEL!

Ralphie giving the I'M THE MAN grin!

I’m thumbing through some magazines and the adverts for Ralph Lauren’s classic and bit nostalgic Blue Label stares me down. Ralph Lauren—or better yet David Lauren—continuously executes timeless advertising campaigns—both for print and billboard. Side note: Check next week’s entry for profile piece on David Lauren.

Just take a minute of your oh-so busy time and analyze these two story-telling adverts. I don’t know about you, but I find Ralph Lauren ads embed touches of aspiration and luxe. In conjunction with the campaign, the collection IS FIRE! The boastful prints are fresh and the solid-colored (both men’s and women’s) garment engineering is timeless!

Comprised Caption: AMAZING!!

Spring/Summer is soon approaching, and I recommend purchasing from the season-appropriate label. Plus, at the end of the day, a Ralph Lauren piece or outfit beefs up any style—be it for guy or lady.

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

4/2/2008

In the Present

LET SUPERIORITY BE YOUR TRADEMARK

It will be your constant effort to be first class in everything you attempt that will help you conquer the heights of success. Always do more then you're supposed to do and you can have, be or do anything you want.

Do a little more then average and from that point on your progress multiplies itself out of all proportion to the effort you put in. You can do a little more each day then you think you can.
There is always a best way of doing everything.

Find it.

To enjoy enduring success, you should travel a little in advance of the rest of the world (taking your passions beyond limits).

True success comes from being successful in little things.

Make it your life rule to do your best.

NEWS BITS

WALL STREET showing major improvements with economic crisis.

Female political powerhouse—Nancy Pelosi—urge Bush to boycott Olympic ceremonies.

HOORAY! Beautiful ‘B’ and Jay-Z is walking down the aisle. Yvette (you know who you are), I’m getting my wedding sartorial pieces intact.

The world’s tallest dog!

Fashion Director's from SCOOP shows you how to nail Mr. Clonney and Zellweger's looks from their movie--‘Leatherheads.’

MSR FUNNIES

April Fools Day requires a MSR FUNNIES by default !

This 7 year-old face expressions are hilarious!

You Fellas remember this commercial?

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

4/1/2008

In the Present

Appreciation

"You can never get to peace and inner security without first acknowledging all of the good things in your life. If you're forever wanting and longing for more without first appreciating things the way they are, you'll stay in discord."

-- Doc Childre and Howard Martin

Develop an attitude of gratitude. We discover a sense of wholeness as we appreciate both the small and big things in our lives. And it really helps to remember to appreciate ourselves. Appreciation is more than just acceptance -- it's respect and admiration. Let go of criticism and self-abuse.

"Generally, appreciation means some blend of thankfulness, admiration, approval, and gratitude. In the financial world, something that ‘appreciates’ grows in value. With the power tool of appreciation, you get the benefit of both perspectives: as you learn to be consistently thankful and approving, your life will grow in value."

NEWS BITS

Jessica Simpson leaves hospital after recuperating from kidney infection.

NYC holds one of the nation’s poorest graduation rates.

Superdelegate Sen. Amy Klobuchar rallies behind Barack Obama.

NY Yankees and NY Mets kicks off baseball season yesterday!

Louis Vuitton’s new automobile book!

MSR: THIS WEEK IN STYLE

Each week with posting up—the super-popular—MSR: This Week In Style, I’m beginning to take note of the more Gents fashioning up the circuits. And I’m glad the bigger press wigs are overlooking us, because I get the pleasure of dishing out the finest dressers and style influencers spanning the streets—both international and regional.

Who is this colorful style-conscious being? It's none other than Derrick Miller!

The refined Creative Director behind Barker Black Ltd.

Vintage Pirelli Shoes advert with Naomi Campbell (a.k.a 'The Body') and Tyson.

Men's Vogue cover guy A. Rod wickedly executing the editorial shot. Check the pristine background which adds extra luster!

Classic Diddy w/ aviators shot of course. But tell me, how can I get this 'leather ringer' in my closet?!!

I love the colors and their detailed spacing!

Speak of Mr. Diddy, check his design BF out, Zac Posen sport the semi-scruff.

Feature the underlying V-neck ribbing texture contrast on Zac's knit.

This shot of designer Dao-Yi Chow seems as if he stepped out of a venerable Men's Fashion publication.

The glossy Balenciaga's on his feet are simply, stellar.

Bruce, Bruce! I see you bro; he's really channeling Tom Ford slightly with this number.

Besides that, you're a savvy styler in your own right, as we can see below.

Mr. MSR peacing back with Grams at function this weekend!

Don't ask me why I'm cheesing so hard!

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

3/31/2008

In the Present

The power of acceptance

"It is permissible to take life's blessings with both hands provided thou dost know thyself prepared in the opposite event to take them just as gladly. This applies to food and friends and kindred, to anything God gives and takes away... As long as God is satisfied do thou rest content. If he is pleased to want something else of thee, still rest content."

-- Meister Eckhart

Our life begins to change in magical ways when we open to the experience of life AS IT IS. With acceptance, we stop fighting what is happening. And this creates space, an opening for new relationships to unfold.

Explore unconditionally saying yes to the facts of life. Accept your past and where you are now. Unconditional acceptance is unconditional love and this is healing.

"Sometimes what seems like surrender isn't surrender at all. It's about what's going on in our hearts. About seeing clearly the way life is and accepting it and being true to it, whatever the pain, because the pain of not being true to it is far, far greater."

NEWS BITS

YAHOO! launches website for women ages 25-54.

No plot evidence found regarding Princess Di’s death.

I’m feeling the enormous corporate surge in Beijing. Can you say Olympic influence!

Theory gets so artsy!

Agyness Deyn: Edge + Style+ Beauty= World-class Top Model

IN THE SPIRIT

3/30/2008

In the Spirit

ACCEPT CHANGE WITH A SMILE

Sooner or later a crisis will enter your life, and how you meet itdetermines your future happiness and success.Since the beginning of time, everyone has been called uponto meet such a crisis.A closer look will show you that most "crisis situations"are opportunities to either advance or stay where you are.

Indeed, most changes in your life will take place out of either'inspiration' or 'desperation.'Whatever comes your way, give it meaning and transform itinto something of value.Your personal growth is the process of responding positivelyto change.

A precious stone cannot be polished without friction,nor humanity perfected without trials.

MSR DEBONAIR: NANA BOATENG

Real Name: Nana Boateng

Age: Twenty something (lol)

Occupation: Fashion Designer

With such a praised and fashion-famous last name it’s only right we showcase this young design debonair that’s making elder designers question their bespoke talents. Nana Boateng (cousin of Ozwald Boateng), the Ghanaian, New York-bred designer is creating a strong buzz amongst young Hollywood gents, and fashion mavericks alike.

About three (or four, looking back) summers ago, I went to my borough’s (Brooklyn!) first-ever Fashion Week. The Tents at Bryant Park couldn’t compare to the raw constructed Fort nestled under the city skyline. That night, I became familiar with raw design talent. The designer: Nana Boateng for Akua Adoma.

Nana constructed some of the most exquisite men’s tailoring; think Bespoke with plenty of color and energy. Nana draws inspiration from exotics and various cultures. Often his bright-hued double-vented suits are tailored for all varying body shapes: Athletic to Slim built. (Just take a look at the pictures inset.) Along with master cut suits, Nana’s long sharp-tailored long coats are rad! I’ve never seen nothing like it—and that’s no hyping or puffery. Nana's become known for a runway trademark: models walk sans shoes.

Last week, the crew (Jay, Kwasi, Andrea and Mr. MSR) took in his recent collection at the now annual BK Fashion Weekend. Unfortunately readers, my Exilim couldn’t capture strong shots from the runway. I did manage though to corner a backstage shot of Nana’s models (pictured below) post show.

Overlook the spots and revel in the fits and cuts!

I caught up with Nana during the press madness backstage and here were his quick remarks.

MSR: Love the collection Nana! What were your inspirations?

Nana: Thanks a lot (smiles). Energy+ Vibrancy were strong inspirations. I wanted to invoke that in this collection. The colors I chose are clear telling representations of that.

MSR: Why do you continue using the signature trademarks?

Nana: I don’t use shoes on models because bare foot adds a pop and flair to my suits I find.

Besides styling up Hollywood luminaries (Djimon Hounsou, James Franco, Derek Luke, etc.), Nana’s sartorial wonderment graced the leafs of Essence Magazine, People Magazine, Men’s Health, Bandshell, just to mention a select few. In addition, you may remember seeing Nana make history by headlining the cover of Black Enterprise Magazine. Major!

A brief sampling of Nana's designs:

For more information on purchasing suits, please visit Akua Adoma.

Recent Update: Check out the profile video Black Enterprise did on Nana Boateng.

NYC: MEATPACKING DISTRICT

Vintage Meatpacking District.

The old Meatpacking District street art.

Viola!! The new-and-improved Meatpacking. Revitalization has swarmed the neighborhood!

Soho House. Gansevoort Hotel. Tracy Reeese. Alexander McQueen. Dianne Von Furstenberg. Jefferey’s. All these titles are instantly, better yet, automatically mirrored with the present Meatpacking District. The ultra-hip cobblestone neighborhood has quickly risen to the forefront boasting the best shops and boutiques NYC’s ever witness. The area use to reek due to the extensive meat slaughtering houses, hence the current name. Today, the stench has evaporated to welcome refreshing smells of high-fashion and sauntering style players.

On a recent merchandise sight seeing tour, I bumped into Scott Schuman on set shooting a fashionable subject. You see the blog of his wicked capturing but to see it on-hand it’s priceless. Picture it: Scott Schuman dressed spring-appropriately surrounding by pools of garbage (literally) shooting this statuesque Asian woman—who was gorgeously striking. As she posed on cue, his lens flickered in the same tune. Another great highlight, his props were so naturale (Italian for natural). Taxi cabs, car commuters and pedestrians were the shoot’s backdrop. I will definitely post the shot when Scott gets it up on Sartorialist.

Excuse the major sway from the post, but I had to give a visual with that one. I spent some time in SCOOP. I toured the very intimate men’s selections and came across just a few items I think were cool. First, I grabbed up these luxe white YMC (British designer) sneakers that were perfect for the summer hit. Picture Jack Purcell Converse’s with more minimalism.

After ingesting YMC’s simple design construction, I walked over to take in their Vilebrequin swimmies neatly hanged on hooks. The styles were blahh...nothing serious. Overall, visit the shop (men’s) if you just need some high-end casual getups. Or if you’re a book junkie or art lover like Mr. MSR, walk next door to their lifestyle concept shop.

You always save the best for last! Jefferey baby! As you enter you’ll immediately grasp the clothing store’s cutting-edge atmosphere. Jeffrey Kalinsky (founder) to this day is a major buyer for both his NY and Atlanta stores. Most times when in Jeffery’s, I’m always in proximity to the Men’s ultra-trendy shoe department! It’s an experience in itself!! On this day, I was salivating helplessly over Bottega’s woven Vans-inspires sneaks; Lanvin’s partial patent cap toe shoes; Dior Homme two-colored three-strap tennis shoes and many more brands (Barker Black suede royal-esque slip-on was nice!) that I could spend my bonus and tax returns on in a whim.

Lanvin!

Take these very brief Meatpacking District tour recaps as a telltale sign where to head for fantastic investment pieces (at these prices, the pieces appreciate with age) that benefits your personal style to the utmost extent.