LENS: THIS WEEK IN STYLE

I couldn't conjure enough words or brief caption for the fashionable duo.
Simply put, they wear clothes, it never wears them.

Ashton is dashingly posing with Demi and Cameron. Mr. Kutcher normally sports crisp solid shirts so I was pretty shock to see him in prints. Which by the way, I think he features well.

Actor Clive Owen fitted in a rich single-breast suit. Clive infuses flair and finesse with the unbuttoned white shirt.

A favorite pair of mine offering up chic and cool during a casual saunter in NYC. I like your kicky red shades B. For some reason it doesn't give vintage but a la Ray Ban Wayfarer.

Kelly Rippa and hubby Mark Consuelos looking vibrant and youthful at a recent movie premiere. Mark's contrasting separates, compliments Kelly's coral number.

Rhi and Chris have a matching style edginess that translates.

Update: After completing this week's 'style best' , I saw this Gent and had to include him to our list.

Pause for a nanosecond and actualize the style-forward above. Literally, snapped while in middle conversation, you clearly see why personal style can never be price marked. It's embedded in your every fiber. Posed in an unstructured jacket, micro shorts, (I just can't get this low with the shorts) and velvet evening slippers, he's totally summer perfect.

MSR FUNNIES

Paris Hilton fires back at McCain ad with her own political spoof.

Just priceless.

See more funny videos at Funny or Die

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

5/6/2008

In the Present

Behind the mind lies clear, quiet open space through which the energy of Life flows.

Reside within this spaciousness and nothing will be left undone and all else shall be added to you.

NEWS BITS

Dark Knight continues to shatter box office records.

Anna Wintour and her cutie pie Bee Shafer celebrate Bee’s 21^st.

DKNY launches menswear line with Marchpole.

10 essentials Andre Benjamin can’t function without.

Sean combs taps no-nonsense leader Dawn Robertson, (ex Old Navy president) to head all Sean John operations.

MATT LAUER: THE FASHIONABLE ANCHORMAN HELPS VISITING TOURISTS

Last month or so, breezing around the neighborhood I glimpsed a manly silhouette on a bus stop windowpane sporting remarkable separates. Who was the face donning all this style? It was my favorite morning news anchor. Matt Lauer.

Every morning the charismatic TODAY show host invites millions of morning viewers to his entertaining news segments and personal style. Matt sports a lot of Brioni and made-to-measure suiting and spectacular leather footwear (mostly round-toe monk straps and ankle boots) that encourages fashion hijacking. Trust, I take notice to his pairings. So it wasn’t surprising to see Matt equally stylish off-camera for his NYC tourism ad campaign shot (pictured). The city tapped the news anchor, and several other notable locals for their “Just Ask the Locals” ad campaign.

Other NYC fashionables style-trotters featured in the campaign were Sean Combs, Tim Gunn, Coltrane Curtis and Ivanka Trump, just to name a few.

Below, you can watch some commercials with the subject gabbing about the Big Apple.

Matt Lauer

Coltrane Curtis

Tim Gunn

PROJECT NY TRADESHOW REVIEW

Since PROJECT NY touched down in 2003, Mr. MSR has flocked there, to witness trends setting to strike following seasons. Seeing new fresh and vibrant brands doesn’t hurt one bit. Each year the premium tradeshow expands, offering innovative perks and spoils buyers and attendees excite at. Case in point: Luxury shuttle buses stock with top shelf alcoholic beverages and delish snacks. My preferred perk is functional and tasteful: A trendy weekender bag doled at the greeting table.

Five years later, and grander in size (since bought buy MAGIC International), labels are still hoping to get a coveted booth space—even if it means sharing with another vendor. PROJECT tradeshows are bi-annual—showing in both NYC and Las Vegas.

Scores of fashion and industry leaders converged on the grounds for PROJECT NY two weeks ago to take-in Fall ‘08 offerings and get privy to Spring ’09 threads. With hundreds of designers showing off, “strategizing” was MR. MSR’s only success for conquering the massive convention center packed with contemporary brands. The strategy—visit brands whose garments were visibly creative and remarkable in construction. Many brands attempted, but fell short of having one of the aforementioned qualities.

The strongest brands I’m confident wrote many retail orders and boasted the two elements were: Hickey (the contemporary and younger version of Hickey Freeman), Five Four, SPIEWALK, Verum, FRYE Boots, and Gytha Mander (my favorite new brand!). Each particular brand highlighted quality crafted pieces possessing flair and style.

Stay tune for future posts highlighting these designers and the rich collection(s).

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

8/4/2008

In the Present

Fear is completely dependent upon a narrow and limited sense of self.

Freedom from fear lies in the awareness of it.

NEWS BITS

Actor Morgan Freeman in serious car accident on Mississippi highway.

Stampede takes hundreds of lives in India. The pictures attached shake your core.

Russell Simmons partners with LF USA to manufacture and distribute his new brand.

The Pitt-Jolie clan gets $14 million for twins Knox Leon and Vivienne Marcheline first pose. That’s brand power for you!

André Leon Talley will not style Michelle Obama. Let’s face it, she’s doesn’t need editors conjuring fashion advices. All we’ll say is: Purple Sheath!

MR. MSR FEATURED IN CURRENT LUSSW ISSUE

Remember the LUSSW magazine 'style snaps' feature I told you I photographed for ? Well, it's finally on newsstands everywhere for all to glimpse. I heard it's sold out completely in Japan. Maybe, they'll reprint issues depending on consumer and market demands.

The present cover features new male it-model (pictured) Wendell Lissimore (works with Hermes, Emanuel Ungaro, etc.) .

Thanks again to photo superstar TeKay for choosing Mr. MSR to showcase genuine style.

UPDATE (8/4/2008): I was able to capture the layout from the magazine. I'm the first gent on the left side.

OBSESSION: TRACY FEITH BOARD SHORTS

It’s often said, "thoughts thought, are inevitably magnified by the universe."

If I was skeptic of this phrase, I am a total believer NOW. Earlier this year, I found the boldest and coolest African fabric boasting large elephants, structured leafs and pineapple husks. The color mix was perfecto for summer. Because the fabric was lightweight, I decided I was going to have the tailor make some cool sundeck shorts for beach-y excursions.

Recently, flipping through HAMPTON Style I saw my envisioned board shorts being happily sported by bellmen working at Tracy Feith’s surf lodge in Montauk, NY. I was disappointed. I figured the bold printed shorts were exclusively designed by Tracy for his surfing establishment, because they are not at his shops. Tracy Feith’s clothing is known to portray exotic prints, bold textiles, and breezy fabrics.

Procrastination continues to champion because I still see the fabric in a raw state.

Monsieur Tailor here I come!

TAZ ARNOLD 360'S MCM.

Taz Arnold, Mr. MSR, and Meka clearly caught by surprised.

Goyard, since their ferocious reemergence (roughly 2 years) won the eyes of fashion-forwards everywhere. From Collette on Rue Saint-Honoré to Barneys on Madison Ave. you’re bound to see the intricate-logo brand seated on display. These days consumers are voting for utilitarian (wearable) luxury pieces. Yes, there’s Louis Vuitton, but more opulent options are needed.

Maison E. Goyard didn’t notice the sumptuous clothing lacking, but instead, Michael Cromer Munchen (MCM) has. Referenced as the “trendy 1980s bag maker”, MCM is revamping with fresher and ritzy ready-to-wear. And we should thank one person for the fresher look, and foray back into clothing: Taz Arnold.

As of recent, press shots and videos have been mingling through cyberspace with Taz sporting flashy and swanky MCM garments. My favorite pieces seen thus far: a tan motorcycle jacket with killer gold hardware; a black letterman jacket with pigskin leather (MCM traditional material) sleeves; and a sea blue monogrammed cap. Style reporter, Cathy Horyn, found his ‘cubist’ style at the Paris men’s show, simply fascinating. Imagine when she finds out his designer-creative inclusion with MCM’s newfound image.

Mr. MSR has seen Taz’s Paris shots clad in MCM; and tons of others from performances with Sa-Ra. However, a recent pleasant interaction with TAZ and his MCM in person fueled this article. It was about two weeks back when I had the opportunity to briefly chat design with the invited designer of MCM. My first remark was “are you customizing these MCM pieces”, I have been seeing you rock? If you saw the stop-traffic drawstring he sported in Europe, you would understand the forward inquiry.

Taz laughed, but quickly assured all were authentic, and it’s from his collection he’s whipping up at the luxury house. Instantly, after hearing the good news, enthrallment takes center. Taz Arnold has been envisioning, and crafting a lot fierce pieces (as pictured); ranging from outerwear to stylish accouterments. His worn samplings only wet our fashion appetites for the new collaborative collection. Hopefully, the newsworthy garments will soon rollout at your nearest better luxury boutique.

TAZ ARNOLD'S FASHION CHOICES.

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

7/31/2008

In the Present

Learn to discern how thought filters perception.

Then you will begin to see how much of your experience is a product of imagination and expectation.

NEWS BITS

Thanks to rising oil prices, Exxon reports profits of $11.68 Billion. Exxon made U.S. history!

Washington post columnist Howard Kutz speaks on Barack’s ease and smoothness to handle to the barrage of negatives firing towards him. I believe, Howard, it’s call self-confidence at premium levels.

Vanity Fair’s International Best-Dressed List is out. See if your favorite arbiter of style made this list. One thing I can say, that Carla Bruni is a gem of grace and sexiness.

Ludacris, how idiotic can you be to release music as such? Especially when you know what your so call “presidential boy” stands for.

Check these up-to-the-minute sleek styles for your wrist.

DIOR + JUDE LAW = FRAGRANCE CAMPAIGN

For Fall, Jude Law partners with European label to produce Dior Homme Sport.

VOGUE ITALIA: BLACK BEAUTIES SPICE UP THE PAGES

Before the viral explosion for ITALIA VOGUE’S Black Issue release, I planned on clenching the historical publication. However, days right up before the launch I was swamped with work. And Mr. MSR was turned-down at every grocer and newsstand requesting the publicized issue. My business/marketing know-how kicked in when I figured Conde Nast would have to reprint issues to fill the stratospheric demands.

On Saturday, touring with girlie, I looked everywhere for the issue. Everyone had the same response, “we haven’t received the reprints.” I lucked up when I walked into Universal News (for non-nyc’ers, it’s a venerable hub known for stocking most magazines). I doled out $15 bucks for the Jourdan Dunn cover. Post-purchase, several individuals cornered me asking me where I landed the issue. Without hesitations, I directed them to Universal News on 14^th Street.

The legendary fashion photog Steven Meisel deserves credit and recognition for pitching this revolutionary issue concept to Conde Nast poobah’s and Italian Vogue uppers. I sat down and really dove in and realized Steven Meisel is a frigging genius—a simple genius! Spread after spread, floored me with delight and amazement people. My favorite models and spreads, interestingly, received the most pages. Naomi Campbell (spread title: There’s only one NAOMI) received a whopping 16 pages and Sessilee Lopez (spread title: How to Dazzle)—get this—28 pages! I’m not surprised she ranked out Naomi; this girl makes men feet shake…lol. Other models loaded in the issue were Iman, Veronica Webb, Liya Kebede, Toccara Jones, Chanel Iman, Pat Cleveland, and Tyra Banks, just to name a few.

In all, it’s great to know the overdue issue which advocates fought tirelessly for, finally crystallized into genuine beauty.

SHOTS FROM ITALIAN VOGUE BLACK ISSUE.

STYLE STAPLE: SUIT YOUR BODY

Double Breast? Single Breast? Double Vent? Notch Lapel?

The amalgam of suiting jargons might run you into fashion frenzy when sourcing the perfectly fit suit. First thing to know: Your body type. It’s not hard. Snatch a body mirror, and whatever seems to be mirroring back, identify the results as your “body type.” If you are athletically built, psyching yourself up to be Euro-slim inevitably backfires when flocking to menswear shops for suit offerings.

Men tend to have off perceptions of which suit actually beautifies their gentleman physique. To avoid any suit purchasing mishaps, secure the must-do's below, and assure no embarrassments from sales clerks.

We’re not telling the ‘how-to’ with suits (might end up disinteresting you), but rather dishing the simple essentials of securing the perfect fitting suit.

Cut and Fit

A fiercely cut suit—double-breasted or single-breasted—must sit on the wearer. Slim-built to medium-size built guys should seek linear-cut suits. Linear styles lengthen and elongate the shape—providing a lean and slick poise. In addition, it offers eye-pleasing proportions.

If suits ride (front or side gaping) your frames take it in for alteration to a professional tailor (NO Dry Cleaners).

For athletic built frames, opt for double-vent suiting--it syncs with your stature. Why? It gives forgiving freedom throughout the shoulders and back area. Also to note, it drapes coolly when buttoned up. The suit dissects the upper body giving a V-formation shape (the ultimate enhancer for non-gym buffs!).

A perfectly fit suit is cornerstone for gentleman style.

Just remember the aforementioned essentials ,and you won’t have any post-purchase qualms.

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

7/28/08

In the Present

Seeking is based on a fundamental assumption of incompleteness.

Beyond all seeking lies the discovery of infinite completeness -- an undeniable recognition that nothing is missing.

NEWS BITS

Ugly Betty Star Rebecca Romijn set to have twins.

Chicago Sun-Times columnist Bob Novak diagnosed with brain tumor.

Actor Shia LaBeouf arrested for DUI suspicion.

Rapper Nelly stars in FALL Sean John adverts. Honestly, is this a great collaboration? Being that Nelly already has his own women’s label, I felt SJ should of tapped LL Cool J.

Mr. MSR doesn’t drink, but these tasty-sounding cocktail elixirs throughout America make one want to indulge.

THE SATORIALIST AND MEN.STYLE TALK MENSWEAR

Browsing through Men.Style.com , I encountered this cool video (shot last week) with Scott Shuman from The Sartorialist; Josh Peskowitz (a young editor editor who has his finger on the menswear pulse) and menswear authority Tyler Thoreson recapping the recent menswear shows in Paris and Milan.

Watch how these stylish and candid fashionable Gents interact in the men's fashion closet.

It's really cool!

In the Closet: July 23, 2008

LENS: THIS WEEK IN STYLE

With timeless and creative style, as the reappearing message, these style players dress the part all while looking smashingly good.

Tennis star Andre Agassi, achieves the ‘gentleman’ look on the cover of HAMPTON STYLE. Kicked back in a fitted notch lapel number, matched with a crisp white shirt, a youthful-looking Andre beams.

Looking unbothered, Sir Fonzworth Bentley (host of Mr. MSR’s new favorite show: G’s to Gents) rest on a leather club chair sporting an earth-tone [window pane] plaid jacket with matching denim shirt and pants—very western contemporary!

From the moment I laid eyes on this style dandy, I admired his majestic white suit and royal purple drivers (you know there TODS!) used to flair up his ensemble. Don’t you just this summer look? With his unbutton striped shirt and camel Hermès belt he reminds us why in summer we stock easy-breezy garments—with hints of luxe.

Fast forwarding to Spring ’09, I loved how transferable this silhouette is to Fall. Mr. MSR had to rip it of the runway; to show key pieces Gents can grab, even before the flowers re-blooms next Spring.

Singer M.I.A. and fiancé Benjamin Brewer shows young and stylin’ at this year’s MOMA: The Party in the Garden. Mr. Brewer opts for the traditional gala black and white uniform which he sports and fits well. The lovey-dovey matching crossed-leg posing are way too cool.

On line in CVS recently, this VOGUE cover appeared in the peripheral. The first surprise was the young and regal look the model posed for the cover. The second shocker, it was Kate Moss! Honestly, shots as such, affirm the “chameleon” tag I have placed on Kate.

ERYKAH BADU SWEETENS UP

You remember at the top section of the year, I mentioned the Tom Ford fragrance partnership with earthy-soul songstress Erykah Badu? Well the ad campaign shots for Tom Ford’s White Patchouli—set to debut Fall—are buzzing. (Patchouli is actually a fragrant herb used to hydrate the skin.)

“For this project, I wanted to reinvent patchouli; I loved the idea of mixing patchouli with white florals. We used patchouli orpur, which takes out some of the darker, smoky notes of patchouli. We mixed that with peony, bergamot, and jasmine. Additional notes include rose, coriander, and ambrette seed”, says Tom Ford, in a recent article.

As I stated before “her beauty always translates well.” The new fragrance spreads speaks just that. Erykah depicts sort of a saucy and sultry positioning I actually love. Models, stand way for the possible new it-face. Designers might start clamoring to have her for campaigns.

Well done Ms. Badu!

Speaking of campaigns, check out J. Timberlake’s fall fragrance (entitled PLAY) adverts for GIVENCHY.

IN THE PRESENT & NEWS BITS

7/23/2008

In the Present

Each experience is an opportunity to see more deeply into who and what you really are.

Life is our opportunity to deepen our appreciation of the infinite.

NEWS BITS

Clearly, using carps during your pedicures is effective for scaling away dead skin. This creative method needs to hit the Big Apple.

The graceful yet hilarious Estelle Getty has passed on at age 84.

Tomatoes are clear, however, now FDA is reporting there is a national Salmonella Saintpaul outbreak with jalapenos.

Bosnian warmonger Radovan Karadzic (lead initiator for the massacring of 8,000 men and boys) is captured.

Karl Lagerfeld in his acclaimed documentary (Lagerfeld Confidential) mentioned he hoped to dabble with designing homes. Now, a new partnership in Dubai, (ching, ching!!) has Karl doing just that.

EXPERIMENTING WITH A MOBILE APPROACH

Last night, my uncle hinted me on a cool experimentation using popcorn kernels and cellphones.

I was in awe of the simpleness' provided to demonstrate the unique experiment. Mr. MSR needed to share this video.

OBSESSIONS

When I think luxury monograms, the first brand to appear is always Louis Vuitton.

The Goyard's, MCM's, and Gucci's all follow behind.

The 'Damier' series is a personal LV mongogram favorite. Why? For the simplicity and bold checkered squares. In addition, it's a suitable monogram for men and strongly betters the traditional all over LV monogramming, I firmly, believe. Louis Vuitton continues to roll out statement pieces that clutch our dinero and charge cards.

The new luxurious obsession : Louis Vuitton Damier large knapsack. The knapsack is not your average toting one. With plentiful leather strappings and shimmering hardware, the luxe carrier is camp-ready and streetwear savvy. I would ditch my hand carryall in a flash to schlep the oversize Damier.

I didn't see any release information about the Damier knapsack. I heard it was exclusively crafted for a certain [fashinisto] celebrity, but I need a confirmation. Take my word; I'll be phoning the Louis Vuitton PR office to inquire further about getting my shoulders underneath the fierce knapsack.