KidViskous

Best Of Jason Wu For Target x CatPaint!

2012-02-01T13:28:00.000-08:00

Jason Wu for Target is certainly no news to most of us fashion followers, but I still wanted to share my faves from the upcoming collection with a little twist: Catpainted! While Target regularly inundates us with constant designer collaborations, a lot of which are kinda letdowns, this collection was one that I actually got excited about. After seeing Jason Wu's little black cat logo buddy, I thought to myself, "why not add waayyyy more cats!" So get ready people, the collection is launching February 5th and I expect this one will go exceptionally fast.

Check out some of my favorite Jason Wu for Target pieces along with prices after the jump.

Jersey Dress in Red/Navy Stripes, $34.99 Cat Tote in Cream, $39.99

Loving the 60s Parisian feel of the collection, with beautiful palette of bright reds, classic black and whites, creams and navy to baby blues. Of course the laser cats are obsessed with this cat-clawing tote! The thick handle hinges add a little designer flair to what would be a "whatevs" bags.

Long-Sleeved Pointelle Sweater in Red, $39.99, Pleated Skirt in Navy Floral, $29.99

I'm really into button-downs buttoned to the neck. While I don't own a single skirt, the floral pleated skirt is a spring staple I may have to try. But dying for the sheer ruffled black socks with patent heels!

Long-Sleeved Sailor Sweater in Black/Cream Stripes, $32.99 Long-Sleeved Blouse in White with Black Ribbon, $34.99, Cuffed Shorts in Navy, $26.99, Woven Mini Saddle Bag in Cream, $24.99

Glad that there are some tomboy-ish combos in the collection, and these striped kitties are stoked for this matching sweater! Already thinking where I can get some black penny loafers...

Long-Sleeve Sheer Blouse in White with Black Ribbon, $34.99, Canvas Skirt in Belize Blue, $29.99 Front-Flap Straw Bag in Cream, $39.99

This cute and clean look is poppin' off with a it's Mary Poppins vibe. I love the insinuation of a sheer blouse, buffered with a crisp bow and pleated skirt. I'm not sure how a canvas skirt would work out in person, since I imagine it more of a wide-leg pant or a military material, but could be a kind of resort getaway feel.

Poplin Dress in Navy, $39.99

This is my favorite piece of the bunch. Whether 60s France or British Mod, the simple pattern, skinny belt and simple cut are begging for me to buy it (no one buy it!).

Sleeveless Top with Sheer Panel in Navy Floral, $26.99 Pleated Skirt in Navy Floral, $29.99, Lace Clutch in Black, $29.99

Note: this is not a dress, but a skirt and top combo. Although it really should be a dress. The sheer panel in the top looks like it could be a Swiss dot pattern, making it not too edgy. Of course I'd pair that top with black leather shorts an combat boots!

Long-Sleeved Blouse in Blush, $34.99, Lace-Printed Straight Skirt in Blush, $29.99 Lace Clutch in Black, $29.99

Same blouse as before, but here you can see the adorably puffed sleeves. The blush pink, lace shirt and clutch hint at luxurious lingerie (maybe underneath?).

Cat Scarf, $19.99

CATS CATS CATS CATS CATS CATS CATZZZ

Front-Flap Bag in Cream/Black, $49.99

And finally, a cute basic vintage-inspired bag. While Jason Wu's is a great option for an everyday bag, THESE and THESE unexpected finds will have your friends praising your ingenuity. Hint: You can buy them at Home Depot!

LOVE/LUST: Blood-Dripping Sunglasses x 1972 Honda CB350Four Motorcycle

2012-01-26T17:01:00.000-08:00

LOVE:

Blood-dripping sunglasses by Ann-Sofie Back - $285, Oooga Booga

I'm dying, I'm dead. I found myself literally mouth-agape as I sat at my desk when I came across these beauties. A bee could've flown into my mouth and I wouldn't have noticed or cared. Handmade by couture frames craftsman Tom Davies for British clothing designer Ann-Sofie Back, these shades prove what a huge difference a tiny modification to a classic shape makes. But at almost $300, I have myself already scheming for a DIY project with the $5 aviators I can find along Venice Beach!

LUST:

1970s Honda CB-350Four

A few weeks back I fell head over stiletto heels for a motorcycle my friend Sean sent me a link to. I've been on the lookout for my first bike and mostly looked at used Harleys and Honda cruisers that look like Harleys. I wanted a bike that would make me look scary, so a lot of the Japanese vintage variety didn't appeal much to me. But having seen this one with it's chic design and the badass twin exhaust, I was sold. So we went over the Pasadena to check it out...

...And it was beautiful! A 1972 model (they only produced the Fours between '72-'74), the bike was in perfect shape, no rust, original paint, even still had the original tool kit and manual. Sadly, the twin exhausts were replace years ago, but I still loved the look. The seat had a little tear but was easily replaceable. It started up on the first try, the engine roar gave me the chills and the bike had remained in one family since being purchased from the dealer. I had cash money in my purse and was ready to hand it over until...

...I actually sat on it--and it was too tall! You can't see, but that day I was wearing 3'' ankle boots and was still on my tip toes. I'm 5'6'' but with short little Asian legs so there was no way I could've safely drive this bike. Very rarely do I actually go out to buy a Lust, and the one time I did I was crushed!

Trying to not cry

The bike was already almost at it's lowest rung, so my only options were to replace the shocks with shorter ones, and carve out the thick foam seat café racer style. But it the end, I decided I should look for a smaller bike (it was pretty wide for me too). Happily, Sean decided to buy this one so if ever I wanted to get it back, I know who to rob. Plus, I probably should learn to ride a motorcycle in the first place, oops! Still, after seeing this one I fell in love with the whole 60s-70s Honda CB fleet. Someone sell me a CB150?

Wearing the blood-dripped aviators on a CB bike sounds like a truimph in accessorizing to me!

Iris Van Herpen's Fang-Soled Shoes and 3D Printed Dresses

2012-01-23T19:11:00.000-08:00

Happy (grossly belated) New Year everyone!

I've been all too busy with things, but I had to take a moment aside to share the latest from Dutch visionary designer Iris van Herpen. I've written about how much I lust for her shoe designs, but have unfortunately overlooked her clothing designs. But now that she has my eye, I'm floored.

Here are some selects from van Herpen's SS12 couture collection that she just showed in Paris. If you can believe it, these ensembles are more subdued than her previous collections, but the unbelievable detail and structural ingenuity that van Herpen brings to her designs are nonetheless still present.

But the real triumph of this collection are these teeth/fang-soled shoes!!

Are you drooling yet?

Click through to see more

What designer Iris van Herpen seems to understand beyond futuristic colleagues like Gareth Pugh, Hussein Chalayan and Balenciaga (at times), is that the future does not necessarily mean space. Heavily influenced by the endless mysteries of the ocean, van Herpen draws upon the countless, bizarre creatures that live right here on our own planet.

"Capriole" collection, 2011

"Escapism" collection, 2011

While imagination depicts life beyond our solar system to be vastly different from ours, the organisms found in the deepest depths of Earth's oceans many times surpass even the most flagrantly wild imaginations. And with the NASA space shuttle launch program coming to an end last year, the vastly unexplored ocean may (and should) become the next frontier in the meantime.

"Crystallization" collection, 2010

Herpen's collections doesn't come without an engineering mind--architect Daniel Widrig lent his skills to an ongoing collaboration with the designer to create the first 3D printed dresses seen on the runway. What a 3D printing machine does is take a 3D rendered image off the computer, and literally build it out of a plastic, polymer, plaster and other materials. It applies layers upon layers of liquid material until it takes the shape of the rendered image, thus "printing" the shape. Generally used to make machine parts, the process has found its way to fashion thanks to minds like van Herpen and Widrig. There is a plethora of information on how to make and operated your own DIY 3D printer!

These are certainly some jaw-dropping collections to return to fashion blogging for! I'll be more diligent about posting in the next couple weeks, including my 2012 forecast and review of my 2011 forecast; what I hoped would happen vs. how it turned out! And believe me, it did not come out the way I expected...

Check out the rest of Iris van Herpen's collections at her website: www.irisvanherpen.com, and the rest of her recently debuted SS '12 couture collection on A Shaded View of Fashion.

12th Day of Xmas Gift Ideas: A Fucking Custom Harley Davidson Motorcycle

2011-12-21T23:10:00.000-08:00

Closing up our 12 Days of Xmas Git Ideas list (like, really late because reality takes up too much of my time!), I've chosen our ultimate of ultimates, totally, ridiculously awesome gift idea is of course, a FUCKING CUSTOM HARLEY.

Now, being a fashion blogger I can write about clothes, shoes, jewelry, runway, editorials and such like second nature. But my freshly minted motorcycle obsession is just a little too rare for me to sink my writing teeth into it just yet. So I've enlisted our new friend Charlie Stockwell of London's own Warr's Customs to help guide us through the sexy world of custom Harleys. They're essentially the haute couture of bikes, right? A custom Harley versus a custom haute couture gown? That's a call I hope no one ever has to make.

'Tracker'
Started as: 2009 Dyna StreetBob
Inspired by the slick 60's cool of actor and racer Steve McQueen, the Tracker has homages to the same military-esque paint design (he was himself a serviceman) and slim builds of bikes the actor himself owned and rode. Stockwell said, "My Dad is a big Steve McQueen fan, myself as well. So I wanted to build a bike that reflected him and his era, but also had a strong Harley feel to it." Let that be a new McQueen to add into your style lexicon.

Cost £18,500 ($27,750)

'Unorthodox'

Started as: 2010 Fatboy

Going against some traditionalist custom Harley practices, this bike uses unorthodox design, materials and components. Stockwell used World Super Bike spec Ohlins front forks, a solid carbon fiber solo saddle, fenders and clip-on handlebars, rear lights in the end of the exhaust, a massively tuned motor and so forth--things that I personally have much to learn about! But the finished product is like that of a superhero's weekend Harley, modern without going too futuristic. Again, my frame of reference is quite small at this point, but this bike would slay when paired with these YSL patent leather platforms.

Cost £87,000 ($130,500)

'24 Boardtrack'

Based on: H-D 2010 Crossbones Softail

Delving deeper into the history of motorcycle racing, this one was inspired by the Boardtrack race bikes of the early 1900's. The bikes back then were essentially as thin as bicycles, so the slimmer wheels, thin spokes and decorative use of a racing number plate on the side reflect the bikes of the era. "The last year of Boardtrack racing was 1924 which was also the year that Warr's opened their first Harley store here on the King's Road in London," Stockwell explains. I personally like the thinner build bikes, especially since I would actually be able to ride them. The smaller details like the gold rings around the exhaust and copper wires combined with the black and white palette (clearly inspired by the pagoda in the background) give this one a chic, but still sporty, vintage look.

Cost £37,000 ($55,500)

'Frisco Bobber'

Started as: 2010 Crossbones

With this glittery beauty, Stockwell wanted to build a bike that combined the feel of two of his favorite places: California and Asia. Hey, I'm an Asian girl living in Los Angeles, so I'm really loving this one!

He said, "I grew up travelling across Asia quite a bit. Mostly Thailand but have always been in love with all of Asia. The custom Harleys that are built in Japan a proper cool. They have taken what people were doing in the 70's on the west coast of the States and then made it their own." Japanese fashion has been re-appropriating heritage American styles for their shoppers for a long time (and us them!), so that practice clearly has spanned beyond just clothing. The warm colors and sunburst paint design are two things that California and Asia undeniably share. And oh so sparkly!

Cost: £32,000 ($48,000)

'Kamome Sprinter'

Started as: 2011 Crossbones.

Of course we have Stockwell's collaboration Harley with Japanese denim brand Evisu. I still can't get over the gorgeous nickel engravings done by an actual gunsmith. I've written about this bike in a previous post, but let's expand beyond the fashion elements onto the bike itself. You can read more the fashion collaboration with Japanese denim brand Evisu in one of my previous blogs: Evisu x Harley Davidson Collaboration Motorcycle.

A reputation for building vintage-inspired bikes (although that's not the only style he can do!) Stockwell certainly went vintage with this one, to meld with collaborator Evisu's tradition of authentic selvedge denim. "There are loads of Evisu graphic in the engraving on the engine as well as lots of Japanese Tattoo art. I hand stitched Evisu denim around the control cables, battery cover, hand grips and other trim," said Stockwell. The kind of meticulous work expected of a couture bike.

Cost: No chance people, this stunning bike was already sold to a good friend of Stockwell's--a person he can only reveal as a "Formula 1 superstar."

That's one happy bike.

See more of Charlie Stockwell's work at Warr's Customs and follow him on Facebook and Twitter.

And that closes out our 12 Days of Xmas Gift list! Happy holidays everyone, we're officially on vacation starting...NOW.

Day 11: Post-Physical & Occult One-Stop Shopping With Actual Pain and Black Milk

2011-12-13T16:30:00.000-08:00

Oh man, it's getting rough narrowing down all the killer stuff I'm finding for our 12 Days of Xmas countdown! As I'm saving the ultimate holiday gift for the last day tomorrow, I'm combining two lines for this post. If these sites don't help check things of your holiday shopping lists for your favorite street goth or rave punk, nothing will!

Loving the graphic bathing suits, leggings and dresses from Australia's Black Milk and the tongue-in-cheek occultist tops, caps and jewelry from Seattle's Actual Pain (they have a .org website, ha!). With differing degrees on the darkness spectrum, what the two lines do share is a surprisingly expansive selection within their respective design themes.

Black Milk has the slick website, hot models and the high-quality photography expected of an established fashion brand, but still retains a sense of DIY initiative. Focused on bold colors and eye-popping graphics, the line turns stretch fabrics into photographic canvases, creating bathing suits featuring skeletal structures, outer space vistas, beach sunsets, wildlife closeups and film art from the likes of Rocky Horror and Metropolis.

My favorites are the Ribs Black Swimsuit ($90) and the Tiger Swimsuit ($90)

I certainly wouldn't restrict these pieces to the pool or beach (especially since I hate sun) and instead would pair with high-waist shorts, mini skirts or for the most daring, just alone with over-the-knee socks and a motorcycle jacket. The site also has an extensive photo galleries of how happy customers styled their pieces if you ever need inspiration.

Worth noting too, their Beetlejuice Suspender leggings ($125). Such a cute idea!

Actual Pain is the polar opposite of Black Milk in many respects, with it's raw, punk rock website and stripped down, guerrilla graphics. But Actual Pain selection is no less expansive than Black Milk's, exploring droves of goth, occult and pop culture memento mori upon what seems like every blank item in the Hanes catalog. I'm particularly drawn to the more humorous pieces in the line, like the utterly Midwestern pom pom beanies and crew sweatshirts.

From top right: Pentangled Tee, $34; I Am Magical Sweatshirt, $52; White Light Pom Beanie, $32; Black Magic Pom Beanie, $32

Actual Pain just launched their winter collection yesterday (Dec 12) and already pieces are sold out, so be sure to grab anything you can as soon as you can. Oh how I lament that these Sixth Seal ($36) leggings are gone! People of Actual Pain, please tell me there will be more!

Day 10: Leather Trim Sweaters by SGC NYC

2011-12-12T16:11:00.000-08:00

After seeing fellow fashion maven Natalie's post for Blackbook on label SGC NYC's one-year anniversary, I fell in love with their effortless street designs and had to add them to my list. In particular, I'm obsessed with SGC's leather trimmed sweater pieces. Being a huge black leather fan, I'm always looking for pieces that uses the material in a unique way. Leather-trimmed cashmere blend? If it had steel beading it would be the hardest to dry clean piece ever, so don't party too hard in it.

Then again, SGC stands for "Social Gathering Clothing" i.e.party clothes. So... dry cleaning be damned!

Knit wool & leather striped sweater dress, $98; Double leather cuff & cashmere blend sweater, $72

My apologies for not posting over the weekend, but I didn't want the 12 Days of Xmas Gift Ideas countdown to end on a Monday, so I thought I'd take the weekend off. There was a certain level of incapacitation due to late nights involved as well, but that's what the holidays are about, right?

I only WISH I had one of SGC's leather detailed sweaters to keep me warm through the ice luge's and bikini bars over the chilly LA weekend. While they may not seem like much on the hangers at first, SGC's editorial shows just how effortlessly styled these pieces are. Considering they are handmade in NYC, the prices are super reasonable compared to other handmade pieces involving leather.

The sweater dress would be perfect with a matching leather five-panel hat (since it kind of reminds me of a baseball jacket), some Doc Martens lace-up boots and patterned black tights. The gray sweater would look great with some crazy black leather platform shoes, metallic gold denim for the holidays and all the long, antiqued metal necklaces you can layer. Or y'know, just black panties works too.

On a side note, I'm totally in love with the blond model. Her and her real-life husband star in Cee-lo Green's stunning, unexpected cover of Band of Horses' "No One's Gonna Love You". The video makes me want to fall in love so much, good times and bad!

Day 9: Witty, Brooding Graphic Tees from TUCO

2011-12-09T12:32:00.001-08:00

I keep telling myself I need to be buying fewer t-shirts and more grown-up shirts (whatever that means), hoping it will help me keep a refined look. But then I see lines that just floor me and I take my back all my anti-tee thoughts. Los Angeles-based Graphic designer and super hottie Jenny Ryf Doucedame's graphic tee line TUCO combines clever, black humor slogans with stark monochromatic images that are ripe for the outwardly brooding urbanite--who actually doesn't take it all too seriously. Any Tuco shirt makes a perfect gift for the badass dude or chica in your life and makes you look cool for finding it.

The name Tuco sound familiar? The line points out the name derives from:

character from "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly" (1966): A wanted man in the American Old West with a price on his head of $2,000. His motto:
There are two kinds of people in the world my friend, those with a rope around their neck and the people who have the job of doing the cutting.
character from "Breaking Bad" (2009): An erratic Mexican drug kingpin.

Are you going to be the one hanging, cutting or scaring the shit out of people?

Not just rad graphics, Tuco pieces are extra soft with "grinding" on the collar and hems for that comfy, worn-in look and feel. These shirts primed to become your go-to afterhours/morning-after/going out and grinding/staying in and grinding/"where the fuck is my favorite shirt" tee. I think a key point may be that wearers can very comfortably sleep or black out in Tuco.

They come in a single size for an oversized look that goes great with pretty much anything. My own rule with oversized tees is to go extra slutty on the bottom to keep a good balance. As part of the launch, Tuco's also offering 25% off orders with code URMYFRIEND for the holidays. What's your excuse not to get one?

My personal faves that jaw-droppingly meet FAB (Fight A Bitch) status are the "House Party Vibes" and "Don't Go Chasing" shirts. I still mourn the demise of the wild weekly house parties in LA (seriously where did they all go? Did we trash them all?) and there are just way too many waterfalls that I need to stop chasing (plus, I fucking love that TLC song, duh).

Jenny, you're reading my mind.

Don't stop.

Day 8: (Almost) Anything From Chloë Sevigny's Latest Collection for Opening Ceremony

2011-12-08T16:58:00.001-08:00

Chloë Sevigny impressed with her fourth collection for Opening Ceremony. The design collaboration started off a little rocky for my taste like most celebrity-designed collections (Kate Moss for Topshop too), but this time she collaborated with vintage-inspired eyewear designer Barton Perreira and heritage street and skate brand Vision. The combination of the collaborators plus Chloë's tastes and OC's talented design team supporting her, it made for a stylistically bi-polar collection with some iffy pieces and some "I will fight a bitch for it" must-haves.

Click through to see more:

Drawing particular inspiration from Chloë Sevigny's Kids days in 90s NYC, the collection is billed as "old-school street wear meets vintage underwear... channel picnic at hanging rock for ultra-feminine silhouettes while 80s-style ra ra skirts key into a different kind of nostalgia—for Chloë’s early days in New York and the skate culture of Kids." While not blatantly 90s, I think they took appropriately small snippets of the decade. Chloë Sevigny herself is even an appropriately small snippet of the 90s!

The leather and cotton "Eyelet Pinafore" dresses show above are my top choices for FAB status (Fight A Bitch, let's see if this catches on), and are, of course, some of the most expensive apparel pieces in the collection: $700 for the white cotton, $1,200 for the black leather. The bathing suits are also to die for, especially since they have structured cups that can accommodate those of us with lesser cleavage--a rarity for most structured bathing suit top designs. Here are some more of my favorites that I think can fit almost any stylish lady you're shopping for. Chloë for OC spans apparel, eyewear, bags, sneakers and also some menswear!

Leather-sleeved jean jacket, $625; Cotton cut-out blouse dress, $290

Red harness bikini, $155; Black cross monokini, $145

Tops: Ruffle sleeve pullover, $325; Vision VSW long-sleeved tee, $90; Vision denim bomber jacket, $400. Bottoms: Vision cuffed shorts, $160. Shoes: Canvas platform sneakers, $265; Vision canvas low-top sneaker, $155.

Vision bustier dress, $180; "CHLOE" Vision beret, $55

Also FAB status! Barton Perreira Jinx sunglasses, $440; Barton Perreira Kevin sunglasses, $440

Day 7: 50% Off JewelMint Bling With Code "fall112"

2011-12-06T17:55:00.001-08:00

I know there are plenty of you out there who haven't even thought about the mounting holiday shopping list as it gets closer to Xmas/Hanukkah. I've definitely been guilty of sending "New Years" cards because I didn't get to sending Christmas cards out soon enough. If you're looking for a gift that literally keeps on giving, you can sign a friend/girlfriend/wife/anyone/cat/pirate/why not yourself up for monthly jewelry deliveries from JewelMint.com!

I'm stoked that the JewelMint team contacted me to help promote some stunning jewelry designed by bi-eye-colored actress Kate Bosworth and designer Cher Coulter. Certainly helped knock a day off my 12 Days of Xmas Gift Ideas list, and helps ease your emptying holiday wallet right away.

Here's a gift from me to you: Copy and paste fall112 at checkout for 50% off your first month of JewelMint, courtesy of the Los Angeles Mint Brand Ambassador Team.

Click through for more about JewelMint:

How it works: Click here to join and take the Style Quiz to create your own personal showroom. Every month, new styles are added to your showroom based on your tastes for you to choose from.

Each piece is $29.99, but with our very own discount code, you can get your first piece for $14.99 plus FREE SHIPPING.

Some of my faves:

And now for the real skinny: If you want to skip a month, you can. There's no obligation to buy anything your showroom suggests for you. You can also return/exchange within 30 days if you change your mind.

How to gift this? Make a nice card for your lucky recipient with their JewelMint login information written inside. You can even say something like "6 Months of Jewelry!" While you can't set a certain amount of time for membership, you can cancel at anytime. So set a calendar alarm on your phone for six months later and remember to cancel. And if you forget, what's the harm in your loved one getting a little extra bling?

Day 6: Ornate Legwear By Bebaroque

2011-12-06T16:39:00.001-08:00

I'm a little upset at myself for not thinking of this earlier, but as a tights and over-the-knee socks fan, the ornate legwear from Scottish company Bebaroque caught my eye immediately. These gold lamé and sequin socks are particularly perfect for holiday party looks. Give these as a gift and I almost guarantee the lucky recipient will wear them to their New Year's festivities.

The brand has a whole assortment of embellished, embroidered, tasseled and bedazzled legwear, dresses and body suits that had my mouth watering. But with the above gold and sequin knee socks priced at $144.00, I'll have to roll my tongue back into my mouth for a little longer.

Click through to read more:

Part elegant hosiery, part luxury dancewear, Bebaroque essentially offers a sort of haute couture shortcut, combining the meticulous details haute couture demands with the simple canvas of universal, American Apparel-like basics. Pairing any of their pieces with a simple pleated skirt, belted dress, or really anything as Toyko style blogger Shan Shan has done (killed it!) gives a unique, eye-catching element that no one else on the street will have. One embellished body suit will cost you at minimum $350.00, yet compared to the ceiling-less pricing of runway couture, it's a steal. I'm particularly enamored with the black outfit below, I would wear that out as is!

Selections from Bebaroque's SS12 collection

But who am I kidding? I'm a total cheapskate, and upon seeing the knee socks and tights I thought to myself, "I can do that easily. Just hadn't occurred to me to do it before." Now, while I don't have the patience to make any of the lavishly decorated pieces, some of the simpler designs would be easy enough to make with a visit to the right craft store, a sewing kit and an hour or two of work in front of the TV. Maybe after our 12 Days of Xmas Gifts countdown I'll do a DIY post for a tights or socks project :).

Purple Ornate Tights by Bebaroque, $168 at PixieMarket.com

Jet Tights, $180 and Roxy Noir Stocking, $94 at Bebaroque.com

Day 5: Alexander Wang "Marion" Sling Mini Bags

2011-12-05T17:03:00.000-08:00

A little late on this one today, but it's a damn good one. My friend Christine--an amazing graphic designer who has created entire looks for the likes of Smashbox Cosmetics and Kate Somerville--had an enviable sling bag with her on a night out that I immediately (without having seen the design before) recognized it as an Alexander Wang piece. Wang's Marion Mini Sling Bag is chic, classic bag that with the rhodium details still retains Alexander's signature edge.

Click through to read more:

I was a huge fan of Alexander Wang's stud-bottomed Rocco bag, but the actual portability had mixed reviews. Holding Rocco myself, it had a surprisingly heavy weight despire the small size due to the solid metal spikes. Knowing how much I like to cram into my bags, I couldn't go through with a purchase despite being as lusty as a bar wench for it. Even though it came with an across-the-body strap, it was certainly a shoulder killer.

Side note: Rhodium is a silvery-white, durable metal that is related to platinum. I came to know the material because the high-end store I worked at as a salesperson in college (I was unceremoniously "let go" for sitting down once) used to sell giant fake cubic zirconia wedding rings. For about $100, women with actual giant diamond and platinum wedding rings would buy the CZ/rhodium ones to wear when they travel in case the rings were lost or the women robbed. Funny how that works?

But with the Marion bag, it's the perfect size for a night out to dinner, dancing and then some. You can fit a wallet, car keys, phone, some cosmetics and maybe a few other necessities in it--which is great weight-wise and cutting down on purse clutter (big problem for me).

At $650, the Marion bag is on the cheaper end of the spectrum for Alexander Wang bags, and is simple enough carry from season to season. Plus, there are different colors and materials to match anyone you're shopping for: Emerald lambskin (sold out in all the places I could find); royal blue leather, black ostrich print leather, black lambskin, azure leather and if you act fast, the butterscotch/rhodium color is on sale for practically half-off for $389 at Barneys.com.

Anyone would be lucky to recieve one of these mini babies for the holidays!

Day 4: Silver Collar Tips Chic Up Any Shirt

2011-12-05T16:24:00.001-08:00

I was suprised at the reaction to one of my latest accessory purchases: Western collar tips. I was inspired to buy them after seeing Zara's lovely Studio Shirt was sold out everywhere I looked.

The top retailed at about $90.00, which for my taste is slightly too pricey for a Zara shirt. And it didn't even matter because right now I can't even find it on eBay. But for much cheaper, you can have a far better alternative:

Click through to read more:

For about $7.00, I bought the best part of the shirt, the tips! A common accessory in Western wear, they're a fantastic addition to a shirt buttoned to the neck in lieu of a necklace. You'll have to dig around for ones that are not blatently Western/horse/cowboy themed, but they really are jewelry in my opinion.

Here are the ones I bought; this is a photo I posted on my Instagram (follow me! Username KidViskous)

The best part about having the collar tips alone instead of the Zara shirt is that you can add them to any collared shirt you own. They have screws in the back to grasp onto the colla for a simple change-up. I bought mine off eBay and I encourage you to search around there for tips that suit you or your gift recipient. They can come in a basic generic metal for under $10 or you can find more intricately engraved, uniquely shaped, sterling silver or 14k gold ones for more. Some even come set with a semi-precious stone like turquoise or onyx.

These sterling silver vintage paisley ones are fantastic for $18 on eBay.

It's almost like DIY, but easier! A great pro-style gift for anyone looking to advance their existing wardrobe.

Day 3: neuLash Active Eyelash Growth Serum (WORKS)

2011-12-03T14:58:00.001-08:00

Just a quickie Saturday post for Day 3 of our 12 Days of Xmas Gifts countdown. While I'm not much of a beauty expert, my friend Danielle of hot D.C. band Shark Week turned me onto neuLash saying it worked for her and others she knew. And guess what, worked for me too! But it'll cost you.

Read more about my experience after the jump:

It's hard to rave about this product without sounding like some ad, but it really does work. As an Asian girl, my lashes are naturally pretty short and sparse, so I've been looking into eyelash enhancers for a while. I've tried Idol Lash to no avail, and I hear castor oil alone helps (it's a main ingredient in most eyelash growth serums). But for my $85.00, (and no prescription like Latisse requires) neuLash has been one that actually showed me results.

To a clean, makeup/mascara/moisturizer-free face, you apply a thin layer to the base of your lashes before bed and that's it. I've only been using it about 5x a week (supposed to use each night, but you know, I come home late, and I've been partying, whatevs) for two months and so far it has noticeably lengthened my lashes, but not made the growth thicker. You'll have a weird in-between time where one lash is way longer than the others, but the rest will catch up eventually.

neuLast comes in 0.11 fl oz size for $85, and 0.2 fl oz for $150. Sounds so expensive for so little, right? But my $85 tube has lasted still this long. I haven't had any irritation, but I have noticed it's a little harder to open my eyes when I wake up in the morning due to slight puffiness and some darkening around the eye where the product is applied. The darkening is very slight, and happens where I'd put eyeliner or eyeshadow anyways, so it blends in in my opinion.

I purchased from Dermstore.com, they're offering free 2-day shipping plus a ton of other deals if you just click around. And they send you cute little free samples with your order, which I of course love. They also have a holiday 3 pack of neuLash, neuveau Brow serum (haven't myself tried, geez getting crazy with the faux French) and a brow definer pen. So what are you waiting for, get winking! A holiday gift for yourself is a holiday gift nonetheless, right?

Day 2: Geniune Lady Gaga Platforms from Noritaka Tatehana

2011-12-02T12:25:00.001-08:00

So, I started off writing the second of our "12 Days of Xmas" posts about a pair of shoes my friend Dominique of the stunning wedding photography duo Love Me Sailor and I recently saw ("we were ready to pull a bitch by her hair out of the dance cage at Rhondavous for wearing the shoes we had been lusting after"). But after some research, I've discovered something better. MUCH better. Behold, the work of platform shoe artist and Lady Gaga cobbler Noritaka Tatehana!

If you can't control your boner for Tatehana's work like I can't...

Click through to read more:

Now, none of Noritaka Tatehana's shoes are for the faint of foot, but I like to think I've been working towards my platform blackbelt. Tatehana's shoes are stunning, gravity-defying explorations of fashion, whose conceptual designs are on the cusp of art. Archival pieces are currently being exhibited at the Comme des Garcons Trading Museum and shop in their Paris and Tokyo locations and Dover Street Market in London.

The young designer (a mere 26 years-old) was born in Japan and mentions his family came into money from the "centre of an entertainment and red-light district in Tokyo". The red-light district inspiration can certainly be seen in his work. Starting at 15, he taught himself fashion design and construction processes, later majoring in dyeing and weaving in college. Currently, every single one of his pieces are hand-executed by Tatehana himself! You can't ask for better craftsmanship for shoes ranging from $2,500 - $4,000. Many designer shoes are already in that price range, but can you imagine how much a shoe completely handmade by Christian Louboutin himself, or Karl Lagerfeld himself would cost??

The man himself, makin' your shoes

While no new collections are up for sale on his site, you can still special order pieces from the Tokyo Trading Museum Comme des Garcons:

Opening hours AM11:00-PM6:00

2F GYRE Bldg 5-10-1 Jingumae Shibuya Tokyo 1500001, JAPAN

TEL +81 (0) 3 3486 8590

Aaand for those of you who aren't quite up to task for Tatehana's shoes, or perhaps live in the real world and plan on walking on real streets, copy king Jeffrey Campbell's "Night Walker" shoe is a fantastic alternative for the much more affordable price of $170.00. While Tatehana's pieces are a crash course, Campbell's shoes are a nice, gentle beginner's lesson in footwear ergonomics without being ankle-breakingly dangerous (and nowhere near as gorgeous).

EDIT: My friend Joshua reminded me that Campbell's Night Walkers are a direct reproduction of another platform diva's go-to shoe designer Natacha Marro. That diva? Why self-styling fashion maven Ms. Daphne Guiness of course.

12 Days of Xmas - Day 1: The Light Keeper Set

2011-12-01T17:36:00.001-08:00

I. Love. Christmas. Call me a sucker, but when the lights go up, the holiday songs start playing and everything has pumpkin spice in it, I get all tingly inside. Stealing Alexander Wang's idea, we're doing a 12 Days Of Christmas gifts countdown (A.Wang will certainly make it on our list) to inspire your holiday shopping this year. If anyone would like to send one of my picks over to me, feel completely free to do so!

Kicking off the list is a beautiful sterling silver "The Light Keeper" necklace set by James Banks. It comes with a set of tool charms: a screw driver, tweezers and a funnel along with a real glass light bulb. But the real kicker? The lightbulb is filled with 30 loose black diamonds and then some.

Click through to read more:

Harmoniously working together, the purpose of the funnel and tweezers is to aid in switching out the jewels (or "the light") inside the light bulb. The filament can also be removed and worn as a charm. I love the ability to customize your necklace with this set, and how everything has it's utility: the bulb for keeping the light, screwdriver for opening the light, tweezers for choosing the light and the funnel for transferring the light. Being able to participate in the design process, however small a contribution, is always a welcomed element--although that might only be because I'm a jewelry designer myself!

How this set actually came to my attention was that one of the James Banks designers is Adam Shulman, a.k.a. actress Anne Hathaway's freshly minted fiance. Along with jewelrysmith Heidi Nahser Fink, who does stunning metal work herself, the duo has so far released a very small collection of antique-inspired necklaces.

The set comes in a beautiful leather "tool" pouch and a polished wooden box with instructions on how to use the precious tools. Any guy or girl will be thrilled to receive this set (I know I would), but with a $1,100.00 price tag, you may just want to keep it for yourself.

Check back tomorrow for #11!

KidViskous Black Friday Jewelry Sales!

2011-11-25T10:36:00.001-08:00

Hopefully not too many of you have been trampled by this morning's rush. Avoid the lines and shop online (I know I am). KidViskous is having it's own holiday sales, tons of pieces for 20%-50% off in all of our online shops.

At our main Supermarket.com shop, we've taken 20% off our Vampire Teeth necklaces and Feather Earrings, along with discounts all across the store.

On our KidViskous Facebook Shop, we've added a few more items, including our Double Crossed Rings. These items have the same discounts as our Supermarket store, but have the added bonus of an additional 10% off if you "Like" our page.

And finally, at our shop on Etsy, where you can find pieces that are not part of out main collections, you can get an additional 15% off the whole store with the coupon code: BlackFriday throughout the whole weekend!

So what are you waiting for? Shop easily online this weekend and avoid the trampling!

Evisu x Harley Davidson Collaboration Motorcycle

2011-11-22T16:20:00.001-08:00

Japanese designer denim brand Evisu has teamed up with London-based Warr's Harley Davidson to create a one-off, "classically inspired" custom motorcycle to celebrate the brand's 20th anniversary. Being that I'm currently obsessed with motorcycles and plan to get my own eventually, this meticulously designed bike, nick-named the "Kamome Sprinter," is a fantastic crossroad between two of my favorites subjects: fashion and worrying my mom (just kidding, and motorcycles).

"Kamome" is Japanese for "seagull," the simple symbol of which is Evisu's logo. Hand-built by Warr's Charlie Stockwell, the custom Harley Softail Cross Bones (which is already a brooding beauty stock) features nickel-plated parts, including engraved engine covers by a London gunsmith, selvedge denim-wrapped brake lines and clutch cables, hand-rolled fenders and a handmade sprung solo seat of antique brown leather with more denim underneath. The engravings are of Japanese koi fish, scales and waves done in a way that still lends itself to heritage gunmetal design.

The craftsmanship involved in building this bike reflects Evisu's dedication to genuine vintage jean reproduction, celebrating the importance of authenticity. Evisu even has a set of five rules outlining what elements makes a pair of jeans comparable to those manufactured during World War II, right down to the buttons and thread. Overall, the engravings paired with matte black and more give the bike the look of irresistible cross-continental villainy--authentic villainy if you will.

As a person who knows fashion far better than bikes, I love the attention to detail and how so many elements were added without building it out--much line the Evisu clothing line. I'm not much a fan of their jeans that have large swaths of hand-painting or embroidery, but their seamless combination of vintage Americana and clean Japanese style is evident without lending too much to one or the other.

So, when will you be delivering this bike to my house?

Read more about this bike on Evisu and Bike Exif.

Chloe Does Terry: Sevigny Goes Drag For Candy Magazine

2011-11-02T13:07:00.000-07:00

Candy Magazine can do no wrong! Loving the latest cover of indie film deity Chloe Sevigny going in drag as Terry Richardson for the gender-bending fashion magazine--of course shot by Terry Richardson. Let's not forget the Candy cover James Franco appeared last year in drag, also shot by Richardson.

Another shocking Franco magazine cover after the jump:

I've been looking at the current cover of Flaunt magazine's "A Thorny Issue" for weeks now, not realizing the tramp-stamped bare male ass belonged to James Franco. The actor is truly one to try anything and everything, and I'm sure the Flaunt Art Director has now spent more time staring at Franco's ass than anyone else. Someone please get me in touch with Franco's manager, I have some filthy ideas of my own!

DIY Halloween Costume Tutorial: The Chandelier

2011-10-31T18:00:00.000-07:00

My costume this year, The Chandelier at the Cosmopolitan Hotel in Las Vegas. It was incredibly simple to make, and lights/shiny things go a long way. Without shopping time, it took me about 4 hours total to make. It may sound like a long time to novices, but us hardcore DIY-ers know that's not long at all!

Materials:
-Wide-brimmed sun hat
-Wire Christmas wreath base
-Silver fabric
-Battery-powered strand of pink LED lights
-Plastic chandelier crystals from quinceanera store (draped across body)
-Beaded crystal strings from wedding planner shop (over hat)

How I Made:
1. Sewed wire wreath base underneath the sun hat, laid fabric over the hat and stapled ends underneath (got lazy).
2. Cut 6’ strands of the beaded string, laid them over a center point on the top of the hat and sewed them down at the top.
3. Around the edges of the hat, sewed the strings down to secure them from moving around.
4. Wove the LED strand throughout the wire wreath underneath. The battery pack sat on top of my head under the hat.
5. The ends of the larger, heavier crystals strands were attached to a thick chain that went around my neck. The crystals were made into long loops like the real chandelier, so curves up at the bottom instead of loose ends hanging (you can’t see on me unfortunately). It unexpectedly created a cool evening gown feel when I walked, instead of a fringe effect.

If I had more time, I would’ve had the beaded strings from my hat cinched to my waist to give more of that swoop feeling. The lights gave the look it's real oomph factor and attracted a lot of camera attention. Any specialty lighting store will have portable LED lights--I'll never do a costume without them from now on!

I wore it with a white button-down shirt with a leotard crotch (I'm not sure what you would call that, the kind that snaps right next to your tender place. Good for keeping the shirt tucked forever) sequin high-wasted shorts from Posh Pants (RIP), over-the-knee tights from House of Holland in lavender, and purple velvet platforms with triangle studs from just downtown LA ($30!).

I obvi love Instagram, anyone with a smartphone should sign up!

The only drawback was that the hat is kinda shaped like an Asian straw hat, so enough people at the party I attended asked if I was Raiden from Mortal Kombat har har (doesn't help I'm Asian, although Raiden doesn't really look Asian). Most people thought I was a jellyfish, which I'm alright with, not everyone has seen the Cosmopolitan's chandelier. But if anyone is in Vegas, you must go see it and have a drink beneath it. Maybe if I had a full bar between my legs people would get it (and then get it).

Happy Halloween everyone! <3 Tiffany

Zoo Kid/King Krule's "Out Getting Ribs" Music Video

2011-10-25T15:40:00.000-07:00

I'm completely enamored with King Krule's (formerly Zoo Kid) "Out Getting Ribs" video. The 17 year-old British singer (16 in the video) whose real name is Archy Marshall, attended the prestigious Brit School in England, the same school that counts Amy Winehouse, Adele, Jessie J and The Kooks as alumni. His first EP comes out November 8th.

His voice is utterly hypnotizing and his gentle brand of darkwave will undoubtedly become something beyond stunning with the right production. And I absolutely love his look from his red coif to the layered clothing. But I hate to point out the similarity with the infamous Rick Astley since with both, the resonant voice coming from such a young (and yes, ginger) face catches people by surprise.

Chatting about Marxist theory to hip-hop, Pitchfork caught up with the well-rounded Brit at CMJ this year.

KidViskous Exclusives Shop Launches On Facebook

2011-10-14T13:01:00.000-07:00

Hey y'all, it's been a long long time. Exciting update for today, we've officially launched our very first Facebook shop via the KidViskous Facebook page! The purpose of this shop is to offer our Facebook fans exclusive pieces and discounts you can't find anywhere else. Just click on the "KidViskous Shop" tab on the left.

I was also lucky enough to do a mini shoot (first I've done myself) for some exclusive cross pieces that have not been available online in the past, and only have been sold two boutiques across the country. See more photos after the jump.

Click through to read more:

We'll be doing weekly secret sales of one or two items that'll be at least 50% off the original retail price. Plus, this is the first time our Inverted Cross Necklace has been available for sale online. Before that, we've only had them selling at Love Brigade in Brooklyn, NY (and I heard from a customer they're sold out!).

On top of discounts of over 50% off the original prices, fans who "Like" our page will get an additional 10% off. Now isn't it time you came to the dark side?

CHECK OUT THE KIDVISKOUS EXCLUSIVES SHOP

Thanks to my lovely models, dancer Zak Ryan Schlegel and spiritual phenom Hiram Camp. I live you two!

Lady Gaga Meat Dress Designer Franc Fernandez Makes Meat Shirt

2011-09-16T15:00:00.000-07:00

And I'm obsessed!

Popped in after a too-long hiatus to share a story I wrote for Yahoo! Music.

Read the story here

Andrej Pejic and Rico "Zombie Boy" Genest Pair Up For Auslander Lookbook

2011-07-20T12:06:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've posted, but I honestly haven't been too inspired in these past couple weeks. But when this lookbook came on my radar, I absolutely had to jump on it.

Two of 2011's top amodelies (model anomalies), and my personal 2011 faves, have teamed up in Brazilian clothing brand Ausländer's summer catalog. Male model Andrej Pejic, heralded for his uncannily gorgeous feminine face, earned a notorious spot in FHM's 100 Sexiest Women In The World list this year and even had a topless magazine cover censored due to confusion over his gender. Rick Genest, aka "Rico Zombie Boy" was plucked out of Canadian oddity obscurity by Lady Gaga's stylist Nicola Formichetti to star in his debut menswear collection for Thierry Mugler and Lady Gaga's "Born This Way" video... But you fashionistas already know all this.

I really love how accepting the fashion industry has been to these models. While Pejic already has highly desirable looks for a female model and works as such, Genest is a complete wildcard who has proven he can model beyond the novelty of his work with Mugler. It's yet to be seen how long Genest will last, as it has only been a few months into his debut, but I hope long enough to pay off all the ink that made him famous. Ausländer's fusion of these fringe faces--one defying gender, the other defying the grave--makes for an irresistible romance mined from the depths of the bizarre and the beautiful.

CLICK THROUGH FOR MORE PHOTOS AND VIDEO:

Ausländer, while certainly not "edgy" on the rack, has done well by hiring the two models to redefine the mostly clean, classic and preppy pieces. One wouldn't think to put Genest in a polka dot oxford shirt, but the juxtaposition with his tattoos works quite well. Who knew that a man tattooed to look like a zombie would have such modeling range?

Pejic and Genest were also invited to walk in Auslander's Spring 2012 runway shot in Rio De Janeiro.

Check out some backstage interviews to see the models out of the still camera.

Guest Curator Feature On FashionStake.com

2011-06-28T11:02:00.000-07:00

I had the unique pleasure of being chosen as a featured Guest Curator on online shopping start-up FashionStake.com! As an independent designer and inherent techie, I was immediately drawn to the site not only for their support of new designers, but also the innovative way they operate. Instead of faceless buyers deciding on what they think shoppers would like, users are invited to vote on a wide range of carefully selected pieces. The highest rated pieces are then featured in their "Crowd-Favorites," and users are rewarded if they choose correctly. Top style sites like Lookbook.nu and Chictopia understand the power of user interaction, and it's fantastic to see a beautifully curated shopping destination harnessing that power while introducing fashion's freshest faces.

I particularly like their choice of words to describe me in the banners and preview text, appeals to my dark soul.

Check out my Guest Curator Feature here:

Shop my picks here & get 10% off with code TIFFANY10:

Nicolas Kirkwood Creates Keith Haring Shoe Collection

2011-06-14T12:38:00.000-07:00

As respected, revered and repeated as Andy Warhol and Jean Michel Basquiat, artist Keith Haring's work has continued to grace us decades after the activist and pop graffiti artist's passing due to AIDs in 1990. His latest art/fashion straddling latest was created by shoe designer and Rodarte darling Nicolas Kirkwood. The English designer takes Haring's iconic interconnected patterns and figures and infuses them with both architectural and humorous shoe designs (knee-high roller skates anyone?).

The artist painting one of his signature patterns

Online fashion, arts and culture site Nowness conducted an interview with Kirkwood about Haring's influence and bringing his work to footwear.

Click through for more photos:

But this isn't Haring's first footwear collaboration. Just last spring Tommy Hilfiger released a capsule collection of sneakers and rainboots for men, women and children in collaboration with the Keith Haring Foundation, which assists in AIDs-related and children's charities.

Check out some highlights from the Haring x Kirkwood collection from Kirkwood's boutique launch in London.

Personal fave

LOVE / LUST: Stacked Rainbow Platforms x Stud Saturated Boots

2011-06-06T12:31:00.000-07:00

LOVE:

Jeffrey Campbell Groovie Stacked Rainbow Platforms - $184.95, Solestruck

Oh Jeffrey, you never miss a beat. Instead of making another made-for-the-masses designer knockoff from the latest season, Campbell went all the way back to 1938, recreating a Ferragamo design made for Judy Garland. While the design may not be as famous as Garland's ruby red slippers rom the Wizard of Oz, the originals were still celebrated in an archival installation last year. I'm torn between Campbell's replicas and the Chica rainbow platforms, which is better?

The $2,500 original (obviously the best). I initially thought they were painted wood platforms, but they're actually wrapped in dyed suede. So posh!

Click through to see my LUST:

LUST:

Handmade Studded Booties - $3,500, Patricia Field

Patricia Field's shoe selection is KILLING it right now. I just about fell out of my chair when my friend Dominique from Love Me Sailor sent me a link to these boots. They're a total mess and practically unwearable and I lust for them like crazy! Perhaps not as violently chic as the Crystal Spike Shoe Harness, but has a post-apocalyptic, robotic glam worthy of Bowie himself (or Optimus Prime if he ever wanted to do runway). The "handmade" tag on these shoes makes my own craftiness start ticking, perhaps I'll be a one-woman Jeffrey Campbell and knock these off myself!

Summer's Hottest Look: No Clothes, No Hair, NO FLESH

2011-05-31T14:54:00.000-07:00

With the official bbq-ing, binge-drinking, memorializing kick-off to summer behind us, it's time we start putting into play the hot weather fashion we've seen gallivanting around the music festivals into our everyday looks. With cut-off jean shorts and vintage tees being the perennial trend, why not beat the summer heat with the effortless chic of having no flesh at all.

Think of it: No fuss over high knots or low buns, no sweat glands to make the makeup run on your non-existent face, you'll fit into every bikini you dare to try on and no need to reapply, or apply any sunscreen at all! You'll want to bleach those ivory whites as you soak up the rays from poolside to graveside.

Click through to read more:

But in all seriousness, this set of x-ray model shots presents a unique idea for fashion editorials that could pontentially have a gorgeous, other-worldly result. Rumored to be taken in a TSA airport scanner, these images debuted last fall as a pin-up calendar, but I see it as a new dimension for modeling couture accessories and shoes. (The literally faceless model has yet to be named.)

The less-than-desirable shoes pop beautifully in these images, so just think how fantastic some Sarah Burton for McQueen pieces would look with loads of architectural jewelry pieces seemingly floating above the ethereal form. A high-fashion model would have an even longer and lankier skeleton than the model here, but his or her weight would be irrelevant. A plus-sized model would be even better as the skeleton would be the same, but shoes and accessories would hover even higher. Instead of the model's weight, candidates will be weeded out according to if they have any implants, pins, metal plates or pacemakers.

Fashion Flashback: Supermodels Behind Bars

2011-05-16T17:41:00.000-07:00

Not that much of a flashback, but we're looking back to the simpler times of 2010 at Love magazine's multi-cover Spring/Summer 2010 issue. Featuring the top supermodels of today and yesteryear, the eight covers were shot by the very well-seasoned photographer duo Merc Alas and Marcus Piggott.

Click through for more:

Stark, simple, stunning, this series really belongs on a gallery wall, taking the bodies that have worn the most coveted and expensive garments in the past twenty years and giving them nothing but a few grey bars (appears to be tape), heels and a simple stretch rope. I love how each model is in an identical pose, almost as if to stack them against each other in a fight worthy of Mount Olympus lore. Their individual looks are boiled down to their purest forms: Lara and Kristen the cyberbots, Natalia and Jeneil the innocents, Amber and Daria the unpredictables, Kate and Naomi the succubuses.

Death At A Pool Party: Musings On Defining Fashion

2011-05-04T15:30:00.000-07:00

I was so stoked to see that my photo from the Phillip Lim party was up on street style photographer Mr. Newton's site. Giving The Sartorialist a run for his brogues, Mr. Newton was out during Coachella weekend shooting looks for Harper's Bazaar when I ran into him. Of course I didn't make the cut for Harper's, too weird I'm sure. Clearly I haven't changed much since high school.

Also hats on to fellow fashion writer Natalie Alcala for including a twitpic of my outfit in her post for Blackbook!

Read some ramblings after the jump:

I had plenty of people ask me for a photo at the Lim party, or just took a candid, including Bronques of Last Night's Party, Garance Dore and Alexa Chung who was djing the event, but caught me on my way out. I was asked by a photographer, "Who are you wearing?" as she petted my veil like it was the mane of a Triple Crown-winning horse. I thought was a strange question to ask, because I was just wearing a hat I bought at the mall, a basic bikini from American Apparel and a lovely piece of lace I bought at Jo-Ann Fabric. She was obviously expecting something like, "Oh, vintage Givenchy" or "a piece inspired by Philip Treacy." But with voice lost to being sick, I bumblingly grogged, "Umm, just, something I made." Disappointed, she walked off.

It's an interesting aspect of fashion: everyone's looking for a good story. "Just something I made," or "I thought it was cool" doesn't cut it. The same piece that can make the cover of a fashion magazine could be ignored for lack of a compelling narrative. As a writer, this comes as a relief to me since storytelling is what puts gas in my car, but, to play devil's advocate against my own occupation, it also brings up a number of issues. For instance, what defines good art? If a brilliant artist merely put out a piece without any kind of description, wouldn't it be harder to sell compared to a piece that has an entertaining story? In such a case, wouldn't the story itself be the art, and the piece merely the vessel? But then again a good story can't brighten up a foyer.

Sometimes I want to call bullshit on things that rely on stories. Truly brilliant art, fashion or any visual medium shouldn't always have to rely on words or ties to well-known names--just the power of it's physical presence. Not to say my personal style is in any way on that level, but it's sad that a lack of story can detract people from something they enjoyed. Perhaps my outfit didn't evoke a literal narrative, but I felt it had an emotional one. Black, shunning sunshine and summer, and yet utterly exposed to the elements and public eyes. Alarming at first glance, but frustratingly simple when broken down. Fashion can be a riddle, sometimes not meant to have an answer.

I guess I'm completely contradicting myself writing this, but it's an interesting human aspect to think about. In other words, don't ask me who I'm wearing ;).

NY - You Are Invited: Comme des Garcons 70% Off Shopping FESTIVAL

2011-05-04T12:27:00.000-07:00

Oh to be a New Yorker this weekend. Comme des Garcons are not just having a sample sale, but a shopping festival--ill at 70% off, good lord. But this isn't just to liquidate last season's pieces, they're bringing out pieces from ALL their past collections, including pieces from Comme des Garcons, Junya Watanabe, the recently discontinued women's line Tao, Homme Plus, Junya Watanabe Man, Comme des Garcons Comme des Garcons. All pieces, including vintage pieces (vintage is considered anything pre-1975, so some serious rarities and relics to be had), have been "carefully preserved" and are all brand new.

And in dramatic CDG style, the extravaganza is being held at the Croation Church of Saints Cyril and Methodius, plus food vendors will be present to keep you sifting all day. Merch will be replenished daily, so it sounds like you should take Friday and Monday off work too.

Personally I'd be interested to see if there were any Junya Watanabe Man Pink items there. It was a line of menswear pieces for women that was discontinued as well.

The details:

Comme des Garcons Shopping Festival

Croatian Church

504 41st Street

May 6, 7, 8 - 10am to 7pm

May 8th - 12pm - 8pm

Can someone buy my ticket to NYC for the weekend?

Andrej Pejic For Dossier Cover Shoot; Watch The Video

2011-04-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

Back to life! Apologies for the extended vacation. Coachella will do that to any good fashionista. Thankfully I've made it without a sunburn, unthankfully without a hot new desert boyfriend. But no matter, here's some more epic eye candy for boys and girls alike: everyone's fave androgyn model Andrej Pejic for arts journal Dossier's Issue 7. Shot by photographer Collier Schorr accompanied by female model twin Trina, the ambitious blonde alone makes the issue's cover.

While I'm anxiously waiting for an editorial where Pejic goes all out femme couture, this spread is still banking on Andrej's delicate beauty, effortless tomboy/Erin Wasson-esque style and what I like to call, "the confusing nipple." He's almost more of a beauty model than a fashion model, as stylists don't seem to do anything to transform or draw away from his natural looks. I guess there's really no reason to when he looks remarkable as is.

I was also pleased to see that photographer/filmmaker Andrew Kuykendall shot a breathtakingly sexy short film for Dossier where Andrej takes the male role. Andej in motion is a hundred times hotter than in photographs, he needs to be in a band. I had worked with Kuykendall years ago, back when I had delusions of being a model. Let's just say he's king of the sleazy motel fashion shoots, and his photos of myself, another girl, baby oil and her mother's lingerie shan't be revealed anytime soon. But an incredibly talented and fun photographer to work with nonetheless (cute too). Andrew also shot one of my favorite models Dylan Monroe back when he was a shy teen with a fierce look for a KidViskous feature in Kitten Magazine.

Watch the video:

More photos from the shoot after the jump:

LOVE/LUST: Gaga-esque "Magic" Leopard Platforms

2011-04-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

LOVE or LUST?

Magic Leopard Platform - $118, Nasty Gal

When I saw these booties, they just had to have their own LOVE/LUST feature. For $118, less than what most Jeffrey Campbell shoes sell for, it's a steal for the design. But what I'm unsure of is if I'd actually wear them? No doubt I like them, I'm absolutely nuts for them! But could $118 be better spent? With an EIGHT inch heel height, that makes out to $14.75/inch, while most mid-priced shoes would be double the price per inch.

My previous purchase of a 6.25'' platform wedge proved to be ill-made since the arch of the heel is still quite high. Basically when you walk, you have a constant feeling of falling forward. Despite how crazy I am about these shoes, I won't be able to get drunk in them:

"Mercer" by Michael Antonio Studio - $99, Amazon ($15.84/inch)

The "Magic" leopard platforms appear to have a lower arch, the equivalent of a 3.5'' heel (very low in my book). But there could be other difficulties with the "heel" of the sole being so far underneath the foot. I'm crossing my fingers I'll find these downtown in the cheap fashion district for half the price.

What are your thoughts: Would you wear the Magic Leopard Platforms (more than once)?

Candy Tails: Vogue Australia's Electrofied Covergirl Hair

2011-04-07T16:22:00.000-07:00

This goes straight to the top of my favorite Vogue covers ever! I doubt there has been a Vogue cover model with this kind of vivid haircolor (save Rihanna), but Vogue Australia's May 2011 issue kills it. Starring model Julia Nobis, this rising model is currently the face of Proenza Schouler, the butchier of a pair. The candy-coated accompanying editorial was shot by London-based photographer Kai Z. Feng featuring the sweetest of Spring 2011 from Miu Miu, Louis Vuitton, Valentino, Prada and more.

Hair color has been on my mind this week, as I'm planning on going ombre thanks to star hairdresser Danny Rishoff of Byron & Tracy Salon. Keep an eye on this kid, he's going places fast! I haven't colored my hair in about four years, so I'm looking forward to a big summer change. With lighter tips, I might just do the high school trick and dye my hair with Kool-Aid for a bright (and literally sugary) color that washes out.

See more after the jump:

Lookbook Love: The Deliberate Disintegration of Coinonia

2011-04-06T12:35:00.000-07:00

From fluid to stark, I'm struck by new label Coinonia's haunting lookbook for their Fall 2011 collection. Their designs have a deconstructed element to it that almost appears to be a natural state erosion. To contrast those disintegrating pieces, the designers bring stark angular shapes and silhouettes. Coinonia was freshly launched in 2010 in Paris by Japanese designer Momoko Hashigami and Korean designer Kiho Kim. Hashigami is a graduate of Central Saint Martins University of Art and Design, interned with John Galliano and previously designed for Antonio Marras. Kim was also a designer at Marras, which assumably is where they met.

See more photos after the jump:

See all the looks at Coinonia's Tumblr

Former Plus-Size Model Crystal Renn's First Vogue Cover Shoot

2011-03-30T16:24:00.000-07:00

Formerly the most sought-after plus-sized model in the world, Crystal Renn shows off her new body on the cover to Vogue Mexico this month. Having been between a size 10-14 for most of her career, the press nearly fainted over photos that were released last summer that showed a dramatic weight loss. Renn has always been open about her battle with anorexia as a teen model, so it came as a shock when she appeared to be just as thin as when she had an eating disorder.

Crystal Renn as a teen and the controversial shoot in 2010

Read more and see Renn's Vogue editorial after the jump

At the time Renn denied having undergone such extreme weight loss, saying the images were Photoshopped, and candid photos revealed that this was indeed true. But in her editorial for Vogue Mexico, which harks back to the days of the true 90s supermodel, it's apparent she had been losing weight. Renn cited her own health concerns as the reason behind it, not industry pressure.

Crystal Renn from Harper's Bazaar Australia in 2009

What I'm curious about is this: By taking away what set Crystal Renn aside as a model, how will the industry now view her? Renn is undeniably stunning, but how long can she coast on her previous reputation as a high-fashion underdog is up for debate. With her thinner body, her face is now what defines her and she doesn't seem to fit any of the popular model categories, like the little girl doll face or the harsh Nordic sexbomb, or the androgyn. She has a classically beautiful face that couture has overlooked for at least the last ten years. Her weight gave her that edge and not that it's gone, she's sadly one of many universally beautiful woman (oh how awful!) that is better suited for lingerie or Sports Illustrated than runway or, well, American, French, Italian, or Japanese Vogues.

Perhaps slimming down is just financially prudent since she can be up for more traditional campaign work and that generally pays the best. Unfortunately, her competition would also increase dramatically since she's closer to the average fashion model's size. But in the end I'm sure being a human "shock value" gets old after a while. Renn may be perfectly happy to be just another face in the line-up and not a name assosicated with heavy-set women. Luckily she is in the good graces of longtime supporters like designer Jean Paul Gaultier and photographer Steven Miesel and has even published a book on her struggles with eating disorders, so she won't be out of a job any time soon.

Watch the making of Crystal Renn's Vogue Mexico shoot:

What do you think about Crystal Renn's weight loss?

You Are Invited: A Current Affair Pop Up Marketplace Returns!

2011-03-29T11:25:00.000-07:00

A Current Affair returns for it's third edition for spring! Curated by vintage dealer Richard Wainwright and Joey Grana, designer and owner of Scout, with additional vintage selection by Emmy Award-winning costume designer David Zyla. This is not your usual extremely marked-up flea market pickings sale: Along with more than 25 local vintage retailers and private dealers, you'll find choice vintage clothing, jewelry, eyewear and more from labels like Balmain, Halston, Chloe, Comme des Garcons and Lanvin. ACA alumns Weltenbuerger, and Reclaimed In L.A. will be returning with a new addition of rustic jewelry line Alkemie.

Be sure to come on Saturday evening for an exhibition of 10 vintage looks curated by Zyla, and hi, OPEN BAR sponsored by Pama Pomegranate Liqueur, Izze Sparkling Juices and Smartwater. Note: admission is $10 at the door each day, but considering the kind of one-of-a-kind pieces you'll find, it's more than worth it.

A Current Affair

Cooper Design Space

860 South Los Angeles Street, Penthouse

Los Angeles, CA

Saturday, April 2 from 6pm-10pm

Sunday, April 3 from 10am-5pm.

Style Breakdown: 9 of Spring's Strangest Heels

2011-03-25T18:04:00.000-07:00

With the weather starting to warm up, designers are rolling their tan and toe-airing footwear. Scrolling through my trusty online shops, I've noticed an influx of interesting plaforms--some beauties, some beasts. Here's just a handful of Spring's strangest shoe styles.

Click through for more:

Frame by United Nude - $545.00, UnitedNude.com

United Nude has some of the most structually fascinating shoes on the market right now, and no wonder: The line was founded by an architect and shoemaker. I can easily imagine a 50 ft version of these installed in a public space. Modern buildings and modern heels are both in the business of defying gravity, right?

Two Hundred by Ego and Greed - $89.99, Solestruck.com

Dubbed the "flatform" I was surprised to see shoemakers return to the sole that ravers, Spice Girls and Misfits (think creepers) made popular back in 90s. In a sandal, it just feels like treatment for an orthopedic ailment.

Leopard Open Toe Platform by Estelle - $750.00, OpeningCeremony.com

An almost flatform, its not so much the shape as the colors that make me cringe. It's not so much leopard, as it is a block of melted, crispy cheese. Combined with the meaty/bacon-y silk ruffles and shiny surface, these shoes are more fit for a greasy diner than for an equally greasy disco.

Femmes by Gee Wa Wa - $219.95, SoleStruck.com

Despire the oppressively heavy looking platform and the fact it looks like a headless cat cartoon when you squint, this style has a wonderful balance between feminine and badass. Dubbed a "claw" heel, the cut out platform actually reminds me of the Shel Silverstein book The Missing Piece.

Ferme by Jeffrey Campbell - $222.00, Lulus.com

File these under "Are You Serious?" These are true platforms because they look like shoes from the Medieval Times costume closet standing on their own little stages. There's no attempt to blend the two pieces, at least have the suede part of the heel be wood? An awful case of leftovers being tossed together.

Space Wood Wedge Sandal by Minimarket - $369.95, SoleStruck.com

Finally, a stylish solution to Shape-Ups! Ok maybe not, but this salad bowl-round platform is a solution to the chucky wedge without being too clunky. A great Swedish brand, their sunglasses are worth checking out as well.

Monroe Python Wedge by Carin Wester - $348.00, PixieMarket.com

They may not seem strange now, but do a Google Image search on "foot binding" and you'll see why the color and placement of the platform notch weirds me out.

Skate by Jeffrey Campbell - $214.95, SoleStruck.com

I guess the idea was to look like an old fashioned ice skate or sled, but to me it looks like scraps from a rocking chair or door frame. Nice concept, but too This Old House in its execution. Again, another example of Jeffrey Campbell just slapping anything together.

Crystallization by Iris van Herpen x United Nude - $995.00, UnitedNude.com

LUST LUST LUST! We've featured the Iris van Herpen x United Nude Synthesia boot before and had to give props to their other collaboration design. Utterly sexy, utterly unique, this style comes in three colors and also with chains instead of leather laces woven all over. I'm dying, I'm dead.

Raw Geronimo Brings The Rain At Popomomo's LA Fashion Week Event

2011-03-23T14:14:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, despite the heaviest rain Los Angeles has seen this season (heavy for us, probably nothing for New Yorkers), dedicated fashion enthusiasts packed out the Mandrake bar for clothing line Popomomo's LA Fashion Week event. Performing that night was the line's latest campaign star, musician Laena Geronimo, shot by an amazing photographer and personal friend of mine, Job Piston.

The photographer with his work

Raw Geronimo

Popomomo stands for "post-postmodern movement" and boasts collections made locally of only sustainable and/or organic fabrics. The simple, feminine and delicately architectual designs are as sustainable as the material they're made of: They can be worn and accessorized in so many ways, expanding the pieces' longevity. Having previously designed for Urban Outfitters and Free People, designer Lizz Wasserman no longer wanted to be restricted by the gaudy limitations of disposable trendiness. Popomomo is at its core completely season-spanning, not to mention good for the environment.

Watch a clip of Raw Geronimo's performance. Sorry the lighting and sound is weird!

Click through for more:

Piston met Wasserman through her husband, whom is an artist Piston attended school with, and she approached him for the project. The inspirations behind the collection were artist and writer Eve Babitz and musician Patti Smith: "a dark and sweet 70's, grey day LA vibe." For the shoot Piston said, "Lizz wanted the model for this collection to reflect its design references: a writer, a musician or cultural figure from an artist community...We were very lucky and excited Laena agreed to work with us."

While Laena Geronimo is better know as the bassist for 60s throwback sweethearts The Like--replacing founding member Charlotte Froom--she also plays violin in Swahili Blonde, plays percussion, violin, vocals and keyboards with Dante Vs. Zombies, occasionally plays bass for Residual Echoes, all on top of her own band, Raw Geronimo. In a coincidental overlap, while Geronimo has modeled for the LA-based Popomomo, her bandmate Z Berg from The Like has modeled for an LA line called Geronimo (no relation).

Perhaps it's not just the "cool" factor that draws designers and artists together, but the dynamics of shooting an artist v.s. a model. Of the Popomomo shoot, Piston recalled, "Some models are particular about their 'good side,' or what angles they're photographed from. There were no restrictions on which angle Laena preferred to be shot from. On stage, the audience observes you from 180 to 360 degrees...She's a natural character and that element made the images truly collaborative."

I've said many times how fashion and music are close relatives that beautifully play off eachother. And if anything, designer/music collaborations make for more fun events than a traditional runway show. With the whole band clad in Popomomo, Raw Geronimo rocked their brand of sweet-to-stomping psychedelic rock, heralding influences from Devendra Banhart and fellow LA band Warpaint--and of course a bit of The Like. While the Mandrake has a large sign that says, "No Dancing Allowed," that combined with the rain didn't deter fashion revelers from having a good time.

Photographer Job Piston with Lizz Wasserman

Piston & Geronimo with yours truly. Such cool last names.

KidViskous 1,000 Cranes For Japan Relief

2011-03-23T12:52:00.000-07:00

Please help us raise money for Japan

KidViskous is donating all proceeds of our 1,000 Cranes necklace listing on Etsy to the Red Cross for disaster relief.

Japanese legend says if one were to fold 1,000 origami cranes, a real crane will grant that person a wish of health or long life. While we may not have 1,000 cranes, we can still contribute to the health, well-being and wishes of the Japanese people affected by the tragedies that have befallen their country.

Visit our charity listing at our KidViskous Incubator Shop on Etsy.

Cover Woman Anna Wintour: Rare Interview & Cover Shoot for WSJ Magazine

2011-03-22T16:23:00.000-07:00

Not the cover of Vogue or any other distinctly "fashion" magazine, Vogue Editor-In-Chief graces the cover of Wall Street Journal Magazine shot by Mario Testino. While not as household a name as say, Martha Stewart with homemaking or Oprah with everyday lifestyle, Wintour is just as much of a powerhouse in fashion as the aforementioned women in their industries. It's interesting that of all publications, Wintour chose to grant the rare interview with WSJ magazine. Being that she is the top dog in fashion, it makes sense that she can only choose publications that are relatively unrelated to the industry. I expect WSJ will get into the actual business, power dynamics and possibly the financials of her work instead of her opinions on fashion. The issue will be on newstands March 26.

Click through for more Wintour:

The only other cover that Wintour has appeared on in recent memory (and what a Google search could find) was the premiere issue of fashion magazine Industrie in May 2010, knocking out rumored model Daria Werbowy. Difference being, this shot is likely from a photo site like WireImage or Getty and not an official shoot with Wintour like what WSJ has.

With copies, homages and parodies across all types of media, one of my favorite representations of Anna Wintour is from drag couture magazine Candy. They did a fashion editorial with two male models flawlessly dressed as Wintour and Vogue Creative Director Grace Coddington. The whole shoot is cheeky but lovingly done, albeit hilarious at points (Wintour grimacing at the cat). There's even a drag version of blogger phenom Tavi Gevinson.

Flashback: Lady Gaga Naked, Tied Up For Vogue Hommes Japan September 2009

2011-03-21T12:00:00.000-07:00

A woman after my own heart. It's amazing people are still debating whether or not Lady Gaga is a transsexual. Transsexual, no; transgressive, yes. Here's clear evidence of her lady parts from a stunning photoshoot by the incredible art photographer Nobuyoshi Araki from the Septemeber 2009 issue of Vogue Hommes Japan. Araki is known for using "Kinbaku," which is the meticulous art of Japanese bondage, so it's only fitting Lady Gaga get tied up in it too.

Funny to see how far she has come. Watch an interview with her in 2008 when she thought performing on "So You Think You Can Dance" was her biggest break yet.

"Somebody shot [pop music] in the face. I dunno who, but I want it to come back."

More photos after the jump:

Shop For A Cause: Fashion Benefits Japan

2011-03-18T13:05:00.000-07:00

The outpouring of good will for Japan has been enormous across the board--but there is still a lot of work to be done. One thing that really struck me was how right as the earthquake hit and during the immediate aftermath, the Marc Jacobs Twitter has shown particular concern for their employees in affected areas. Since the earthquakes and tsunamis hit Japan, clothing companies like UNIQLO, Levi's, Coach and American Eagle have donated millions of out-of-pocket dollars to the relief efforts, while many others are teaming up with charities to help raise money. Fast Retailing Group, the company that owns UNIQLO, g.u., Comptoir des Cotonniers, Princesse tam.tam and Theory in particular has been doing amazing things to help the disaster victims, its CEO personally donating far more than the company and all its employees combined. Uniqlo and Theory also have clothing donation boxes set up in their retail stores and Fast Retailing is donating tens of thousands of garments from their lines.

Actress Rinko Kikuchi & model Jenny Shimizu wear Opening Ceremony for Japan tees

Designers and retailers are also creating charity incentives to shop, many donating 100% of proceeds of overall sales and the sale of special items to relief efforts. We've compiled just some of the shopping opportunities where you can help Japan while getting a little something back.

Click through to see:

Opening Ceremony

Opening Ceremony for Japan Tees - $30, OpeningCeremony.com

Simply designed and shot at OC's NYC headquarters, every cent of the proceeds will be donated to the American Red Cross. OC's website also has a banner atop their website that links directly to the Red Cross site for additional donations.

Alexis Bittar

From March 21 - 25, the jewelry line will donate 100% off all sales on their online store to Catholic Relief Services, plus 100% of sales at any Alexis Bittar retail stoer on March 24.

Note: Catholic Relief uses 93% of donations directly for the relief effort

Forever 21

Today only (March 18), 100% of online sales will go towards Japan relief efforts.

Stussy

Stussy x Fragment Design One World One Love One Heart Tee - $36, Stussy.com

In collaboration with Hiroshi Fujiwara, Stussy designed a tee where a "majority" of the proceeds will go to the Japan Red Cross. Currently available for pre-sale.

Made With Japan

MWJ is an independent multi-arts project with the goal of conveying Japanese culture and with activities and Japanese-inspired creatives. 100% of sales of their hand-screened t-shirts will go directly to organizations directly involved with the Japan relief effort. Currently shirts are sold out, but you can pre-order more via the contact page.

Rebecca Minkoff

A really cute idea, $100 from the sale of any red bag from their online store will be donated to the Red Cross.

Karmaloop

Rising Sun Tee - $20, Karmaloop.com

100% of proceeds from the sale of this style will be donated to The Red Cross. Currently available for pre-sale.

You can still donate directly to The Red Cross online or simply texting REDCROSS to 90999 will donate $10. It's almost surreal to see a country endure tragedy after tragedy in a matter of days the way Japan has and we all need to do out part to help.

You Are Invited: Opening Ceremony, The Standard, The Red Cross + Tons of Designers, Celebs & Artists Team Up To Benefit Japan

2011-03-18T11:05:00.000-07:00

The New Andrej Pejic... Is Asian! Introducing Model David Chiang

2011-03-17T13:01:00.000-07:00

"I see myself as the next Linda Evangelista. I don't wake up for less than $10,000."

The fashion world has been abuzz about stunningly feminine male model Andrej Pejic's unreal features, but it just takes a off-hand comment from fashion godfather Karl Lagerfeld to bring light to the next androgynous It-model. In comes idealistic 22 year-old David Chiang, to whom Lagerfeld said, "you look like a beautiful Chinese girl." The Canadian model of Taiwanese descent debuted in the fall 2010 season, walking for Alexander McQueen's final menswear collection and Emporio Armani. He skipped spring collections and re-emerged for fall 2011, walking for Dior Homme, Rag & Bone and others.

Now, as an Asian person myself, I'll admit that Asian men with feminine features are easier to find compared to other ethnicities, so it would not be too hard to find more like Chiang. Thus, he's not quite as shocking as Pejic. Chiang does however strongly remind me of late Korean model Daul Kim, who sadly commited suicide in 2009 (she was my favorite model). The masculine facial features that Chiang does have lend themselves to Kim's sultry and inherently sinister look.

Daul Kim

See more photos after the jump:

So far Chiang has been styled for edgy, masculine looks, so his potential as an androgyn is yet to be explored the way Pejic already has (i.e. styled as a woman). He has however admitted--certainly joking--that he would consider a sex-change if he was offered a Victoria's Secret contract saying, "I really want big wings. Not the small wings, but Tyra wings." A model with a sense of humor? We love!

His biggest shoot to date is with Steven Klein for Vogue Hommes Japan, styled by Lady Gaga stylist and Thierry Mugler revolutionary Nicola Formichetti. Unfortunately Chiang is wearing a mask in the shoot:

Must be him in the "U"?

Looks like fellow androgyns Pejic and Chiang have already become good friends.

Whatever the outcome will be for Chiang, he has a definite future in modeling. As far as usurping Pejic for the androgyny crown, it will be hard to compete.

Do you think David Chiang can be the new androgynous It-model?

Help Japan: Remember To Donate

2011-03-17T11:00:00.000-07:00

Text "REDCROSS" to 90999 to donate $10 to the Red Cross. In the wake of Japan's biggest tragedy since WWII we all need to do our part to help.

(image via Together We Kill)

LOVE x LUST: Patterned Collaboration Wedges For Spring

2011-03-16T12:59:00.000-07:00

LOVE:

Julian Louie x Aldo Sobeslava Ikat Wedges - $125, Select Aldo locations (for now)

The tribal patterns blew up in last year's ethnic-inspired spring trends and looks like it's hanging on this year. A collaboration between Aldo and designer Julian Louie, whose reconstructed pieces don't usually favor patterns (think a color-blocked Proenza Schouler), the limited-edition collaboration launched today. Only one style is available online so far (but I'm getting a page error...) and the rest of the 8 styles are for sale at five Aldo flagship locations. The collection will be hitting the rest of stores and online starting April 18th. This is the first of three collaborations Louie has done with Aldo: The Fall 2011 collection in discussion for production and Louie already started on the Spring 2012 collaboration.

LUST:

Loeffler Randall x SUNO Erin Lace-Up Wedge - $645, LoefflerRandall.com

I mean, it's 5.3 inches high, of course this is the Lust! The Aldo wedges look about 4.5'', but no word on that yet. Another great collaboration, this time with shoe line Loeffler Randall and NY-based clothing line SUNO. Both designers have been around under five years and their low-key alliance for Spring 2011 matches well with anything from vintage daisy dukes to classic shirt dresses. Although it seems an unlikely collab, Randall's shy, feminine styles works wonders with SUNO's striking Kenyan-inspired prints.

Laetitia Casta Gets Lewd For Purple Magazine By Terry Richardson

2011-03-15T16:40:00.000-07:00

Interesting update: I recieved a comment on this post that was filtered as spam so I did not read it until now. It appears that Terry Richardson and Purple Magazine have broken some sort of French artist copyright law enforced by the ADAGP by capturing images of Aristide Maillol's statues without permission. The ADAGP has targeted my blog as well, so I have since removed the images. Seeing as Purple has an image with Maillol's piece on the cover of it's Spring/Summer 2011 issue, one wonders how this will play out. As of today, they are still using the images online and certainly on a number of printed magazine already circulating and for sale.

It's sad that we cannot sometimes use art in our own work, especially when the statues like Maillol's are outside and completely open for the public to enjoy. Still, the wonderful images from the Purple shoot are available online with a simple Google search for anyone curious.

Read my original post with the one remaining non-Maillol photo. Fitting, no?

Stunning Victoria Secret model and actress, French beauty Laetitia Casta does her share of revelling in/on the arts for a Purple Fashion spread and cover for their Spring/Summer 2011 issue. I'll give you one guess who shot this... Terry Richardson of course. Casta poses provocatively in Azzedine Alaïa and latex dresses atop and against French sculptor Aristide Maillol's statues that sit in the gorgeous Tuileries Palace gardens in Paris. In the issue, she discusses her relationship with late designer Yves Saint Laurent, whom immediately fell in love with her when she came into a YSL fitting (she was too short and curvy for any of the pieces). Casta was only 21 and Laurant was 64.

But it is no wonder Laurent fell in love with her: Other than being one of the top fashion models in the world, the national symbol of France, Marianne, took on her features in 2003 and she was chosen to play another curvaceous French bombshell, Brigitte Bardot in the Serge Gainsbourg biopic. Bardot also happens to become the first famous Marianne alumna in 1969. Although we don't see much of her now, there's no denying that she will always be remembered as one of France's greatest beauties.

A Look Back At Carine Roitfeld; Her Uncertain Future

2011-03-11T11:26:00.000-08:00

What can we say about Carine Roitfeld? After a much publicized leave from her coveted Editor-In-Chief position at French Vogue, now Roitfeld has been banned from fashion week. Jonathan Newhouse, Condé Nast's International Chairman, sent a letter to designers requesting that they not invite Carine to their shows because "it might send a confusing message" having both her and her replacement Emmanuelle Alt there. I haven't seen a high fashion fallout like this since Rachel Zoe pulled a "bigger than Jesus" with Anna Wintour. But Zoe certainly won that battle now with her top-rated Bravo show, QVC line, fashion news site and of course, the $10,000 per styling gigs. Still, Wintour always wins the war.

But back to Carine. It's not clear what she will be doing now that she no longer wields the Vogue saber (rumored to team up with Hedi Slimane to direct YSL if current creative director Stefano Pilati leaves). Designer consultation was one thing she had been doing while still at Vogue, although the conflicts of interest made it one of the reasons Roitfeld left. In the end we cannot deny her talent in any fashion venue. Here is what I think is a stunning example of Roitfeld's abilities, starring model Lara Stone and shot by Mark Segal from a 2007 issue of French Vogue. Amazing how her styling then still resonates today--and the baby jaguar certainly helps.

More photos after the jump:

Lady Gaga x Supreme by Terry Richardson for Purple Magazine

2011-03-09T13:24:00.000-08:00

Hardly a fashion spread so much as legs spread, Terry Richardson shot Lady Gaga in his usual pervy way and published the photos in Purple Magazine. The set was originally shot for Vogue Homme Japan, the issue with her wearing the meat bikini on the cover that enraged PETA. No, it's not an official collaboration between the singer and NYC skate brand Supreme, whose biggest advocate right now is probably hip hop delinquents Odd Future. But damned if she doesn't make Supreme look good.

Click through for more photos:

John Galliano's Dior Replacement: Who Can Match Up?

2011-03-08T13:08:00.000-08:00

With now former Dior head designer John Galliano officially ousted from his position of fourteen years due to anti-semetic outbursts, Dior is pressed to find a replacement. The names that have been circulating the media the most have been Riccardo Tisci of Givenchy, Alber Elbaz of Lanvin, soloist Haider Ackermann, and Stefano Pilati of Yves Saint Laurent. Given that Galliano will be leaving Dior with their Fall 2011 RTW collection, its only fit KidViskous explores this latest season from both Dior and the designers in consideration. See where the designers are at this moment and where they would have to pick up from if they are called to join Dior.

Click through to see their collections:

Christian Dior, Fall 2011 RTW - Galliano's last season.

What to pick up from: The eccentric John Galliano was always one to elaborate on bygone eras, heavily influenced by the 20s to 40s with touches of punk rock, and we continue to see that in his last collection for Dior. As Galliano himself becomes more pirate-y/musketeer-y (pencil mustaches much?) so has his designs. Here we see rich colors and fabrics, cloaks, floppy wide-brimmed hats, cropped-sleeve fur jackets and the kind of elegantly detailed and revealing dresses that you would see on a black and white screen siren playing a helpless pirate hostage. For a Ready To Wear collection, it's a sumptuous gradient of heavily luxurious pieces to classically feminine sheers.

As much as on the runway, Galliano's designs have always belonged in the theater. Stylist Patricia Field said, "John lives in theater" in her defense of Galliano that she emailed to 500 friends, editors and blogs. Galliano must already have at least a thematic outline drafted up for the next season, so the new head designer will probably have to work with more dramatic designs than he is used to.

Contender #1 - Riccardo Tisci for Givenchy

Givenchy, Fall 2011 RTW

An overall observation about the possible Dior replacements is that none of them quite match up on the levels of vintage glamour and theatricality. Here Tisci pairs pencil silhouettes with tongue-in cheek floral and panther prints. There is a slight reference to 60s mod with the bucket hats and thick thigh high stockings, but paired with the long-sleeved ringer tops and baseball jackets it gives the look too much of a casual aspect. Otherwise, Givenchy this season scores low on theatricality or old Hollywood allusion, but is the only designer in consideration who is unafraid of prints and patterns the way Galliano is. Before Dior, Galliano designed at Givenchy, so that alone may be a good jumping off point for Tisci. He is currently the forerunner for the race to replace Galliano, the apparent plan being that Haider Ackermann will then replace Tisci post at Givenchy.

Contender #2 - Alber Elbaz for Lanvin

Lanvin, Fall 2011 RTW

Alber Elbaz is definitely a fan of classic feminine styles and we can see it in his latest collection for Lanvin (not to mention in his H&M collection). Elbaz consistently designing some of the most desirable short dresses with an overall vibe that is very Breakfast at Tiffany's. Lanvin exhibited collarless jackets and caplets, classic black gloves, Elbez's go-to tulip skirts and floppy wide-brimmed hats much like Dior's. Classic, feminine, but perhaps not enough risk taking. As far as his chances for replacing Galliano, Style.com tweeted yesterday that the Lanvin team had been in tears all day at Paris Fashion week—possibly because Elbaz is leaving?

Contender #3 - Stefano Pilati for Yves Saint Laurent

Yves Saint Laurent, Fall 2011 RTW

There are a lot of basic parallels between Dior's Fall 2011 collection and YSL's: pieces that range from dark to white, classic 30s/40s cuts, lush furs, delicate sheers and of course, capes. His instincts are on par with Galliano's having strong, luxe, feminine and essentially vintage styles that can be easily nudged into more extremes. The media has already stated rumors that Pilati will be leaving YSL anyhow, with former Dior Homme designer Hedi Slimane and former French Vogue Editor-In-Chief Carine Roitfeld thought to replace him (YSL has denied the rumor). His possible leave of YSL presents an immediate opportunity for Pilati at Dior if inevitably true.

Contender #4 - Haider Ackermann

Haider Ackermann - Fall 2011 RTW

Debuting in 2001 Haider Ackermann has quickly made a name for himself in the fashion industry as a young Rick Owens. He has the benefit of not being bogged down with the burden of leaving another fashion house and that convenience that could set him ahead of other Dior candidates. As you can see Ackermann had the same instinct as Galliano for Fall 2011 with the rich, flowy turquoises and burgundies, but giving the classic colors and textures modern, deconstructed cuts and silhouettes. A perfect balance of glamour and avant-garde, judging from just their most recent collections I personally think Ackermann would follow Galliano best so far. But being relatively new he may find working for a big fashion house more difficult and intimidating than the other designers in consideration. In the end, I think Ackermann could take Dior into a new modern direction and really revolutionize the brand for the next decade.

Who do you think should replace Galliano?