tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37479594073544231832024-02-19T05:17:01.586-05:00A Style oF CultureA Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comBlogger85125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-43269045533920134242011-11-30T11:07:00.000-05:002011-11-30T11:07:35.932-05:00WE ARE NOW AT MARKET-EDITOR.COMHi All,<br />
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Thank you for all your support!A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-4340880789730573922011-07-17T11:51:00.003-04:002011-07-17T12:21:17.090-04:00The ASFC Re-Porter on MR PORTER: Blazing<div style="text-align: justify;"><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="Adam's Apple Thoughts" data-url="http://adamsapplethoughts" data-via="AdamsAppleThoughts" href="http://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a><script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript">
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There are points in our lives where we all consider change. In the last month, I've considered making many changes to improve various aspects in my life. Whether it was my view on love or the career path I wanted to take, I took time to focus on what I needed, rather than what I wanted. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In relation to all this, I recently organized my sea of clothes and began to think of what I could change about my wardrobe to elevate or push it to the next level. I figured since I'm getting older my style has to evolve into something more focused and more sophisticated, sort of, in the same respect that the older you get, the wiser you become (or so we all hope). </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">With all this existential thought, I decided that I wanted to make it a point this Fall to become more concentrated with my style. Several years to thirty, I felt it was time to start making changes for the upcoming milestone. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Looking at everything I owned, I found a necessity for more options of blazers. I have about two to three good blazers that I really love to wear. The rest need to be altered to fit my petite bod (lol). It is apparent that blazers, when fitting like a glove, help to upgrade and sophisticate any outfit. Whether you're wearing a simple white t-shirt and jeans or a beautiful button-up with great dress pants, a blazer adds that bit of "oomph!" to the overall look. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To jump start this 'blazing' mission of mine, I've selected a group of blazers from <a href="http://www.mrporter.com/">MR PORTER</a> that will surely elevate and mature one's style. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2MOdIc5i2_HW-36C7I0kFzs-lYC-V4-rnQA40OnSbVXxtJ_VniWhuQUmOJq2G3gO2oVVHvavy5qURo1qhdMpokrpp0slFfuXyRc_OBFKeE7hw_TFZVOcfzATOCoTB6KQ750x2xqkarr4/s1600/Alexander+McQueen.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2MOdIc5i2_HW-36C7I0kFzs-lYC-V4-rnQA40OnSbVXxtJ_VniWhuQUmOJq2G3gO2oVVHvavy5qURo1qhdMpokrpp0slFfuXyRc_OBFKeE7hw_TFZVOcfzATOCoTB6KQ750x2xqkarr4/s400/Alexander+McQueen.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/302496">ALEXANDER MCQUEEN</a> Wool Blend Jacket $995</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-h3t5QdXG8AGUDoRg__yljt0Z17hh8e9slKOefaZZx6aXA4zAXOB7MoQTKNoH5AX-vlUtsUGy8ix7I8FKiUV0lduy5CcPRWBfIlN3QvU6Q2rLhz0R0D08b25AcWJJfta5N1DB_YCX_lo/s1600/J.Crew+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-h3t5QdXG8AGUDoRg__yljt0Z17hh8e9slKOefaZZx6aXA4zAXOB7MoQTKNoH5AX-vlUtsUGy8ix7I8FKiUV0lduy5CcPRWBfIlN3QvU6Q2rLhz0R0D08b25AcWJJfta5N1DB_YCX_lo/s400/J.Crew+2.png" width="400" /></a></div><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/302029">J.CREW</a> Ludlow Chino Suit Jacket $250<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuVX7CJnbApui1nl49LpiFRBVOLwYZpjwXA34yz0vOnMPjIThOLPDdWV2sxxCpXsnc73rYLubtfLRpQMpgews1E1syFq-Wwo0IRZjqveWY4QR_jti8zztvKiYsfYgq8reHWWNHu0WD7EQ/s1600/Burberry+Prorsum.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuVX7CJnbApui1nl49LpiFRBVOLwYZpjwXA34yz0vOnMPjIThOLPDdWV2sxxCpXsnc73rYLubtfLRpQMpgews1E1syFq-Wwo0IRZjqveWY4QR_jti8zztvKiYsfYgq8reHWWNHu0WD7EQ/s400/Burberry+Prorsum.png" width="400" /></a></div><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/302266">BURBERRY PRORSUM</a> Two Button Tweed Jacket $1, 095<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNrcbo8LahObZho08n9FCIKmcGy6SjnQ46oL2mNPQSUmIYnY_EUVeTgaD5rMSEuYzJYeO1RNzPm-OSpo9n-YYPX1UIONCzREe8Kik2w8Bc-vh0TgKT4hkvT3DRCDE3PhkRAlBE47uNvU/s1600/Etro.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNrcbo8LahObZho08n9FCIKmcGy6SjnQ46oL2mNPQSUmIYnY_EUVeTgaD5rMSEuYzJYeO1RNzPm-OSpo9n-YYPX1UIONCzREe8Kik2w8Bc-vh0TgKT4hkvT3DRCDE3PhkRAlBE47uNvU/s400/Etro.png" width="400" /></a></div><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/302200">ETRO</a> Corduroy Blazer $1,260<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLOBZM-yzU5C5RN4JUs_r76dJis-FUDlq5zWDQ-0mWBLJszPMDI_7p_O48DvA2CDvDgsfi549ZtGjUib-Ihyphenhyphenjj3p3noS9s4PlBfIJMRurU7mKNiMJkUNeglGolVJtr_r66ahLNeu14U1s/s1600/Canali.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLOBZM-yzU5C5RN4JUs_r76dJis-FUDlq5zWDQ-0mWBLJszPMDI_7p_O48DvA2CDvDgsfi549ZtGjUib-Ihyphenhyphenjj3p3noS9s4PlBfIJMRurU7mKNiMJkUNeglGolVJtr_r66ahLNeu14U1s/s400/Canali.png" width="400" /></a></div><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/302851">CANALI</a> Water Resistant Travel Blazer $1,180<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJsjwsWIRFWMG4lfhKwIGhXSNThvskcvwMj8hCTYXAI5_n2TlyD5D4HXPjPzZiwxDqyOGUBvTEiiwYF6gwffZp9ENFhZ1vt3DjIXDHs7GTPTf_IFcB3m8tejYzz6kL5B9zNQkbFDnPdOU/s1600/Lanvin.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJsjwsWIRFWMG4lfhKwIGhXSNThvskcvwMj8hCTYXAI5_n2TlyD5D4HXPjPzZiwxDqyOGUBvTEiiwYF6gwffZp9ENFhZ1vt3DjIXDHs7GTPTf_IFcB3m8tejYzz6kL5B9zNQkbFDnPdOU/s400/Lanvin.png" width="400" /></a></div><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/303372">LANVIN</a> Raw-Edged Wool Jacket $2,250<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Images and product information via <a href="http://www.mrporter.com/">MR PORTER</a>) </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span id="goog_1462698096"></span><span id="goog_1462698097"></span></div>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-80154271039446163582011-06-17T18:01:00.011-04:002011-06-17T18:36:04.078-04:00ASFC Music Hype: Mike Taylor<div style="text-align: justify;"><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="Adam's Apple Thoughts" data-url="http://adamsapplethoughts" data-via="AdamsAppleThoughts" href="http://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a><script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQE549fMnr64zbUGzMdE6dKVdjdDm2Dfd9U3eSraAroNOyymq5laX3m7lw64JtGh3EEX0YnjS8C2uYZ3VOeoR_HY7L83BoScGFyxy9p6PW95ZZNCG-YfMhBPJXbQcoAH1_qPrkxjKdc78/s1600/Mike%252BTaylor%252BCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQE549fMnr64zbUGzMdE6dKVdjdDm2Dfd9U3eSraAroNOyymq5laX3m7lw64JtGh3EEX0YnjS8C2uYZ3VOeoR_HY7L83BoScGFyxy9p6PW95ZZNCG-YfMhBPJXbQcoAH1_qPrkxjKdc78/s400/Mike%252BTaylor%252BCover.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>If there is anything to keep the moods light, smiles on, and life fun this summer, it's music! Like New Yorkers, I bet many of you are waiting for the rain to end and for summer to finally come. Lately, we've been getting teasers of gorgeous warm nights and fresh, cool style on the streets. However, the weather resists in remaining consistent. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Forget all these thunderstorms and tornadoes, where is the cool breeze and the energizing sunshine? I'm sure Mother Nature has her reasons, but it was a long winter, so give us a break. Hopefully summer comes in full swing by it's usual start date on the 21st of June. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the meantime, to jump start the high temp activities, outings and travels, I highly recommend a recently released mixtape <i>From The Stars</i> by artist <a href="http://www.iammiketaylor.com/">Mike Taylor</a>. Coming out of Philadelphia, this artist combines the genres of hip hop, R & B, electro-pop, and dance to make tunes that will surely get you on your feet this summer and have you grooving, dancing, and gigging, simply enjoying the weather. The mixtape, released back in May of this year, exhibits Mike Taylor's synthesis of these music styles. Whether playing at a kick back BBQ or in an upscale club, his music will help press play on the summer heat! </div><br />
Enjoy the two videos below, one for "<a href="http://youtu.be/9VZqsk0O_oQ">Searchin for Summer</a>" and his recently debuted video for "<a href="http://youtu.be/6xtqt2QA40s">Perfect</a>."<br />
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<center><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/9VZqsk0O_oQ" width="425"></iframe></center><br />
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<center><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/6xtqt2QA40s" width="425"></iframe></center><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Videos via <a href="http://www.youtube.com/iammiketaylor">You Tube Channel - I am Mike Taylor</a>)</span></div>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-9141504162994109632011-06-17T11:41:00.005-04:002011-06-17T12:23:55.577-04:00The ASFC Re-Porter on MR PORTER: All Black Everything<div style="text-align: justify;"><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="Adam's Apple Thoughts" data-url="http://adamsapplethoughts" data-via="AdamsAppleThoughts" href="http://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a><script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript">
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About several weeks ago, a friend and I enjoyed dinner at the quaint <a href="http://www.cafecluny.com/">Cafe Cluny</a>, tucked away in New York City's West Village. Waiting for our reservation, we walked along Bleecker street, stopping into stores like <a href="http://us.burberry.com/store/?WT.srch=1">Burberry</a>, to pass the time. What captivated me the most, that made us enter Burberry, were the bags that were displayed in the window. There was nothing extremely special about them, except that I am a sucker for a great accessory.<br />
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I'm constantly allured by what I call the 'finishing touch.' There is something about a quality made bag, a sleek pair of shoes, or a fun pair of sunglasses that really complete an outfit. In many ways, the accessory helps to elevate the overall look of an individual. And, almost every time I encounter a beautiful accessory in the window, I will walk into the store, simply to gaze, touch and feel.<br />
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Oftentimes, people are concerned with what they are wearing, and there is no wrong in that, but, to me, that just scratches the surface of being fully styled. It is with the accessories that a man or a woman can put a personal twist on their look, which can carry the whole outfit. Think of an accessory as that 'pop of color' that shows the world your sense of taste, and that you care, all the way down to the details. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Quickly looking over the apparel on the main floor, my friend and I soon found ourselves downstairs, obsessing over several bags. Despite their varying shapes and styles, I was most attracted to the fact that they were all black. There is something quite captivating about the color noir. Whether it represents a feeling of mystery or exudes sexy, I find black to be sophisticated and stylishly, tasteful for any occasion. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A fan of accessories, I selected bags from <a href="http://www.mrporter.com/">MR PORTER</a> that illustrate this love for the noir beauty. </div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVQ9row34GMpOJmQBw3w4nUa7mzhqJ4lpl1hGEXUgWSD0lKnUmyNfVUIYegmJQ3p5aueE07Pigzi_ige8mnh-2gEQd8IDy7xMJN53bnNUuK7f5j60pVvuTyZc2O3BSAJfWMI0IqJL9tzM/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVQ9row34GMpOJmQBw3w4nUa7mzhqJ4lpl1hGEXUgWSD0lKnUmyNfVUIYegmJQ3p5aueE07Pigzi_ige8mnh-2gEQd8IDy7xMJN53bnNUuK7f5j60pVvuTyZc2O3BSAJfWMI0IqJL9tzM/s400/Picture+1.png" width="400" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/302167">ALFRED DUNHILL</a> Bladon Leather Holdall Travel Bag $2,050</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHYNOzPF6VG1QbmRiUAlEk2yiB_ul86Ck1yK9XS2qQQfCiEQI1QbFy0HBnwsM8y2VAaMsWbgqeZ68NgJytd6-Ughm-2NYpBolT11KBz0U8uxqe_pO0JrVzHPX3NbmjD5kTsmwLM4f-Fg/s1600/Picture+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="323" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHYNOzPF6VG1QbmRiUAlEk2yiB_ul86Ck1yK9XS2qQQfCiEQI1QbFy0HBnwsM8y2VAaMsWbgqeZ68NgJytd6-Ughm-2NYpBolT11KBz0U8uxqe_pO0JrVzHPX3NbmjD5kTsmwLM4f-Fg/s400/Picture+3.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/300255">YVES SAINT LAURENT</a> Coated Canvas Tote Bag $395</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie7tIDrR3Ju7_PjDSh-YdBV82pqBw1jXHygf5pjlvuegs0X0SLHe_2ZcNRqsdWTB28YXHsuqKuHlbQmcO-Zv7nzwSydscFDDiiLnuY9r6yun_QUpODifp4LVzb7r7qxqJD8RmdT4qiI8A/s1600/Picture+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie7tIDrR3Ju7_PjDSh-YdBV82pqBw1jXHygf5pjlvuegs0X0SLHe_2ZcNRqsdWTB28YXHsuqKuHlbQmcO-Zv7nzwSydscFDDiiLnuY9r6yun_QUpODifp4LVzb7r7qxqJD8RmdT4qiI8A/s400/Picture+4.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/301960">BILL AMBERG</a> Canvas and Leather Backpack $365</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRNE16HKLrIs0cIZoAQ_gJgviAC15FGTx2NRUlMZ_6qfODkrnY_vG8awxfaj-uqBvC42E7nZO340497meNww4INoB1vQBkpjnTfZom_8yJz5Lxhfjr93AmQY7s-qdA3joS3ihsrcLLxE/s1600/Picture+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRNE16HKLrIs0cIZoAQ_gJgviAC15FGTx2NRUlMZ_6qfODkrnY_vG8awxfaj-uqBvC42E7nZO340497meNww4INoB1vQBkpjnTfZom_8yJz5Lxhfjr93AmQY7s-qdA3joS3ihsrcLLxE/s400/Picture+5.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/302170">ALFRED DUNHILL</a> Chassis Leather Holdall Bag $1, 070 </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQsdeCF1jh5ycDP4cVB8NcYyWXl-0KI-TI3EVEaoMtVb7GuAyzE6gb1f4ONdtHk835GawmNGiSI_MCfih0Wkpvx-jZnFr8McJVqkht4IEtDVZuT_c1XrsWRKQRbzmYJkQmGdWj_BDIjnU/s1600/Picture+6.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQsdeCF1jh5ycDP4cVB8NcYyWXl-0KI-TI3EVEaoMtVb7GuAyzE6gb1f4ONdtHk835GawmNGiSI_MCfih0Wkpvx-jZnFr8McJVqkht4IEtDVZuT_c1XrsWRKQRbzmYJkQmGdWj_BDIjnU/s400/Picture+6.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/302781">MULBERRY</a> Barnaby Leather Messenger Bag $790<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Images & product information via <a href="http://mrporter.com/">mrporter.com</a>)</span></div></div>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-6858611670517053102011-06-13T15:53:00.014-04:002011-06-17T12:25:12.588-04:00The ASFC Re-Porter on MR PORTER: Patriotic Pride<div style="text-align: justify;"><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="Adam's Apple Thoughts" data-url="http://adamsapplethoughts" data-via="AdamsAppleThoughts" href="http://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a><script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript">
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With the Fourth of July rapidly approaching, probably not faster than the heat wave that struck NYC in the last week, a sense of patriotism has inspired me. Although of Asian Pacific Island descent, I am American born by way of the sunny, west coast of California.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Growing up as a child, the Fourth of July was always an eventful time to spend with family. My brothers and I were always so excited to see the spectacle of colors during this time of the year. We knew as soon as the sun went down, the time was nearing when the night sky would become illuminated and come alive, transfixing our eyes for a mere twenty minutes, but feeling like an eternity of enchantment. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">From what I can remember, my parents would drive us to a hillside in the neighboring city, where there was a small parking lot and a field of grass. Hundreds of people, who were clever enough to make this a viewing spot for the show, gathered. Parents, children, friends, and couples, alike, situated themselves upon the lawn. With blankets rolled out and cool beverages by our sides, a lot of time was spent bonding as we all waited patiently for the firework show to begin. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">A curious people watcher, even as a child, I would take a couple of minutes, every now and then, looking around at the surrounding crowd. I always noticed how everyone, at least back then, festively dressed for the occasion. Everyone wore their red, white, and blue proudly.<br />
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It felt like the whole country stopped to forget about their worries or troubles, to simply celebrate the independence of our nation. It was as if on this day, a sense of comradery, the pride of our country, and the idea of family were the only things that mattered to everyone. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As time neared for the firework show to start, anticipation grew. The noise slowly died and a calm swept the crowd. Then, it began. A blast went off and BOOM! Dark turned into light. All we could do was tilt our heads up and stare endlessly. It was fantastic! Colors of all sorts, soaring into the night sky, forming shapes in all directions. Smiles came over everyone as we gazed in awe. Here we were, celebrating independence!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So, in the great American spirit, I chose some pieces from <a href="http://www.mrporter.com/">MR PORTER</a> that will surely keep us males cool, while looking cool, this Fourth of July and all summer long. Let's hear it for the red, white, and blue (and maybe even the Mavericks...lol)!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfG4-JcUcI3qpoOMK3c_dLjQbzbW4XMVXisY_a2OdFO53f-ZZw85EfCMGU5wqcSIqDkNU6wd9yxbFBkIaMWkgQ3hllIqCwn19DgezvXI-FAROaWHhYjiqhcbQ0g5x2EYAWtgXRnq9jYYQ/s1600/Picture+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfG4-JcUcI3qpoOMK3c_dLjQbzbW4XMVXisY_a2OdFO53f-ZZw85EfCMGU5wqcSIqDkNU6wd9yxbFBkIaMWkgQ3hllIqCwn19DgezvXI-FAROaWHhYjiqhcbQ0g5x2EYAWtgXRnq9jYYQ/s400/Picture+3.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/303144">POLO RALPH LAUREN</a> Custom Fit Pique Polo Shirt $75</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8le9PlJdhyphenhyphen8nUmHnmqTpVJLLEf1mA9-LrCjZa8Vsfvvak1Tn94onk_BbNIS8SYPlf_LYXto4foc9UvXe2LC8tYt_0TZVSlrfEwtKgtd8S5v96g2oez_VJ2G9VGGOi9guCMycccEGqVZg/s1600/Picture+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8le9PlJdhyphenhyphen8nUmHnmqTpVJLLEf1mA9-LrCjZa8Vsfvvak1Tn94onk_BbNIS8SYPlf_LYXto4foc9UvXe2LC8tYt_0TZVSlrfEwtKgtd8S5v96g2oez_VJ2G9VGGOi9guCMycccEGqVZg/s400/Picture+4.png" width="400" /></a></div><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/300907">MARGARET HOWELL</a> MHL Relaxed Fit Cotton Shorts $240<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6w2l0SLLjRiXm6U2eH-a4N4vgD96kDTZUxK4Sx7jw6TEDV3_0OBXuwr0FZvD2uensCLlK-zeIgdOQLbxtOqZOIdAjiYch3a58-N_nuEhl_TL2DzvXzbeCZSEPFGo2PpdxHSe7v4a7cdw/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6w2l0SLLjRiXm6U2eH-a4N4vgD96kDTZUxK4Sx7jw6TEDV3_0OBXuwr0FZvD2uensCLlK-zeIgdOQLbxtOqZOIdAjiYch3a58-N_nuEhl_TL2DzvXzbeCZSEPFGo2PpdxHSe7v4a7cdw/s400/Picture+1.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/300964">HARTFORD</a> Linen Bermuda Shorts $165<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XapaNYOK8YCGCbg5ZMIqaWiyc1GZUjzQ6tfUdZP5P8NBWTd6VRSnPP9Gyg_LVgkMM218GRUBUevzBTZqWk9wjNZG4pezGbvphtTs3vssI6XvnUyaMQsV4vn2oE8DxiJnqa3Z8ZZyvOY/s1600/Picture+7.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XapaNYOK8YCGCbg5ZMIqaWiyc1GZUjzQ6tfUdZP5P8NBWTd6VRSnPP9Gyg_LVgkMM218GRUBUevzBTZqWk9wjNZG4pezGbvphtTs3vssI6XvnUyaMQsV4vn2oE8DxiJnqa3Z8ZZyvOY/s400/Picture+7.png" width="400" /></a></div><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/171847"> CHUCS</a> Positano Swim Shorts $230 & <a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/300902">ORLEBAR BROWN</a> Graphic Print Swim Shorts $215<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq0RmMwC3qufHX7qJ6tJg1trxnoHGotNSpFVvMqvDCqwlHWcerX3dv6aF9pAsB2D45VSodg0fxocvxClp9BdmVkI-YoOWz95rmIDHMIgFPwMalIYj89Oj6D5cRd8QDZXUmL3lqb8A-cEI/s1600/Picture+8.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq0RmMwC3qufHX7qJ6tJg1trxnoHGotNSpFVvMqvDCqwlHWcerX3dv6aF9pAsB2D45VSodg0fxocvxClp9BdmVkI-YoOWz95rmIDHMIgFPwMalIYj89Oj6D5cRd8QDZXUmL3lqb8A-cEI/s400/Picture+8.png" width="400" /></a></div><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/302905">CONVERSE</a> Canvas Chuck Taylor Sneakers $45 & <a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/301259">RIVIERAS</a> Denim Slip-On Shoes $69<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Images & product information via <a href="http://mrporter.com/">mrporter.com</a>)</span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-17400001085304432922011-06-06T18:13:00.017-04:002011-06-17T12:26:11.719-04:00The ASFC Re-Porter on MR PORTER: Bienvenidos a Miami<div style="text-align: justify;"><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="Adam's Apple Thoughts" data-url="http://adamsapplethoughts" data-via="AdamsAppleThoughts" href="http://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a><script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript">
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With the weather finally letting up and the sun's vibrant rays shining down, there seems to be more smiles on faces, lighter moods in personalities, and an overall aura of happiness in the Big Apple. Gone are the days of rain and clouds, at least for now, and now are the days of skin, sheen and shine, Summer is practically here!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I returned from a trip in Miami, just a couple days ago, with amazing sun kissed skin and a renewed appreciation for the fabulous things in life. Although I was with family, instead of my 'rolldogs' or 'joy friends' as some may call it, the vacation was fantastic and full of fun Whether it was swimming in the warm waters of SoBe or going jet skiing in sunny Key West, my family and I (parents and brothers, and no, I don't have kids) definitely enjoyed a nice time of bonding and some much needed R&R. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To prep for this trip, I packed a group of items that I couldn't go without: comfortable canvas shoes, a lightweight tank, a simple, but stylish hat, a great carryall bag, a pair of casual pants, and, of course, a nice pair of shades. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Therefore, I found it fitting to choose pieces from <a href="http://www.mrporter.com/">MR PORTER</a> that will help to illustrate the must-haves for your tropical travels this season: </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghhntytTD4rpSJOsJMI9J9yf9IZ9kpoSAxIcp4q3MpWFNfKzEscB5Tg2KHX8QAfrh82_JZZ8Ip3GuDb_eHForn4UyuwJhZ72TkdCEmIhsAF3X26zZA7mM7Dq8LSBDGOwGBKSqEETUoJ5k/s1600/Picture+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghhntytTD4rpSJOsJMI9J9yf9IZ9kpoSAxIcp4q3MpWFNfKzEscB5Tg2KHX8QAfrh82_JZZ8Ip3GuDb_eHForn4UyuwJhZ72TkdCEmIhsAF3X26zZA7mM7Dq8LSBDGOwGBKSqEETUoJ5k/s320/Picture+5.png" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/302176">CASTANER</a> Canvas Espadrilles $145</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ZcLyknG4rQ9NmYtcjb9Q0BPHeZCu-08MC8MSOGpY2qNqCqGOeuoOz3MtU-t8KWaYpws86p0UfyCZSNh2s2WAmacpKr3b5KQnmThnWfE8QzZPK4R4pVWNSOSIUDvpgvgfF6xWAinmcj0/s1600/Picture+6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ZcLyknG4rQ9NmYtcjb9Q0BPHeZCu-08MC8MSOGpY2qNqCqGOeuoOz3MtU-t8KWaYpws86p0UfyCZSNh2s2WAmacpKr3b5KQnmThnWfE8QzZPK4R4pVWNSOSIUDvpgvgfF6xWAinmcj0/s320/Picture+6.png" width="217" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/301859">J.CREW</a><span id="goog_1097978958"></span><span id="goog_1097978959"></span> Slim Leg 484 Selvedge Jeans $150</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin01Is9fsDuRvZtDB4lE4VAxxU2TLRjFLY6Ja_IZQ6pyWJAzaeEFGgz4cKjs07X6y4m7ZCV_EYIup8h4ejigGYxHhGG2GlIlbdupUEe8m9dCmqxgy8XnHa43zjhK1B4IB1JvmS4mSwmzk/s1600/Picture+7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin01Is9fsDuRvZtDB4lE4VAxxU2TLRjFLY6Ja_IZQ6pyWJAzaeEFGgz4cKjs07X6y4m7ZCV_EYIup8h4ejigGYxHhGG2GlIlbdupUEe8m9dCmqxgy8XnHa43zjhK1B4IB1JvmS4mSwmzk/s320/Picture+7.png" width="207" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/300634">SUNSPEL</a> Lightweight Cotton Vest $46</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDAM9CXZvFQ_fNIVXZCkO1qC96_exBaKcPLgRbP1fMKpCsTj7l2K9RUBh2Tp4RKxDTs2L0NoHV5WVmw20c-_mnefNvwSMhsWt-p91LTtijhwEwqncIyr0HjIYKlLi6HBiAQQsZ-86i6OE/s1600/Picture+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDAM9CXZvFQ_fNIVXZCkO1qC96_exBaKcPLgRbP1fMKpCsTj7l2K9RUBh2Tp4RKxDTs2L0NoHV5WVmw20c-_mnefNvwSMhsWt-p91LTtijhwEwqncIyr0HjIYKlLi6HBiAQQsZ-86i6OE/s320/Picture+2.png" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/300254">YVES SAINT LAURENT</a> Leather Weekend Bag $2,295</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZsjozoBfjeVTYiIgggObrkvD0sFiwLq99VpPZxmHgs6fj47uhYpg3LkDFK3K7iCKW3WX6clKDl80JHiD1ME1jCD6Yb-ZeyZBW92eLamLn5gqJKUlYCClxlKGVzN-ofkz7gH8L7GqnIQ/s1600/Picture+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZsjozoBfjeVTYiIgggObrkvD0sFiwLq99VpPZxmHgs6fj47uhYpg3LkDFK3K7iCKW3WX6clKDl80JHiD1ME1jCD6Yb-ZeyZBW92eLamLn5gqJKUlYCClxlKGVzN-ofkz7gH8L7GqnIQ/s320/Picture+4.png" width="320" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/300989">ALFRED DUNHILL</a> Roll-up Panama Hat $645</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE5auNl11SnR6VySz6qJdcejENieiZMoRtE366_xH9u96yLg2YssDrfNhUEPWAfVnU-kZhiS8NQo5kuDdgJzNH3Uyzhlck8RBPUePWy_4uCsSMvZgGpQ0PRBZRBvWYkMnfWp30rRMko38/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE5auNl11SnR6VySz6qJdcejENieiZMoRtE366_xH9u96yLg2YssDrfNhUEPWAfVnU-kZhiS8NQo5kuDdgJzNH3Uyzhlck8RBPUePWy_4uCsSMvZgGpQ0PRBZRBvWYkMnfWp30rRMko38/s320/Picture+1.png" width="320" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrporter.com/product/301815">LINDA FARROW LUXE</a> Transparent Green Sunglasses $500</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Images & product information via <a href="http://mrporter.com/">mrporter.com</a>)</span></div>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-49139360626610393752011-04-28T20:46:00.007-04:002011-06-17T12:28:10.587-04:00Design Factor: Kips Bay Chic<div style="text-align: justify;"><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="Adam's Apple Thoughts" data-url="http://adamsapplethoughts" data-via="AdamsAppleThoughts" href="http://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a><script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript">
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This morning the press gathered on the Upper East Side for the <a href="http://www.kipsbaydecoratorshowhouse.org/history">Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club 39th Annual Decorator Show House</a>. Because I've missed prior years, I was finally able to go this year and LOVED it! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">At first glance, there is no expectation of a 'chic' element when walking up to the Neo-Federalist structure. However, when entering this 16-bedroom home, there is a sense of awe and intrigue, as each room is beautifully decorated with detail, style and taste, exhibiting the design aesthetic of each designer who was involved in the annual fundraiser. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Walking through the home, up and down staircases, it felt like an exploration. Venturing onto various floors and into different rooms, as if you were in Hogwarts, each room possessed such personality that anyone could relate to, at least, a few of the rooms' designs. One particular room that really attracted my eye was the <a href="http://bradfordid.com/">Brad Ford</a> room on the top floor. With the use of traditional materials, such as wood, and a natural color palette, Brad managed to convey a very hip, modern design with edge and sophistication. The added touch of playing British female artist, <a href="http://www.adele.tv/home/">Adele</a> on the speaker lined walls, off of a record player built within a coffee table, was definitely clever and sleek! Here are a couple of shots from the Brad Ford room:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW-7YuKD_cuLYRpBt93XlZAMtnJPRjGGvHUtqpyvXaVsjhMr2kJyUx4xYUc-pkUskNFcfJlNuc6Z8ipT40Pur4bkCVApRzHKrEO6wr53D1QSyZ9BsNn79LXJH7E8DilNvftkl7MIQ8w_A/s1600/IMG_5007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW-7YuKD_cuLYRpBt93XlZAMtnJPRjGGvHUtqpyvXaVsjhMr2kJyUx4xYUc-pkUskNFcfJlNuc6Z8ipT40Pur4bkCVApRzHKrEO6wr53D1QSyZ9BsNn79LXJH7E8DilNvftkl7MIQ8w_A/s400/IMG_5007.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitdBLxVUlO0QkH1PbGhprnl0Aq3yDjQfzz3zE39OIHQmfRgPu9MOHyI4Cc_JSx2nLvFbTfMnp8v4vRsFvv6eecxSceVprIffRshgQgQ5BKM_dc_vOyYfGuANrhP5FWrCf1UVBA5RGdwqo/s1600/IMG_5008%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitdBLxVUlO0QkH1PbGhprnl0Aq3yDjQfzz3zE39OIHQmfRgPu9MOHyI4Cc_JSx2nLvFbTfMnp8v4vRsFvv6eecxSceVprIffRshgQgQ5BKM_dc_vOyYfGuANrhP5FWrCf1UVBA5RGdwqo/s400/IMG_5008%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In addition to all the fabulous rooms, the hallways, too, added a little touch of glamour. I was particularly captivated by this ultra-chic ram trophy head, encrusted with black crystals. I mean dies! So chic!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV5iiNFYX1_AABDDwpzwTYtQ-eN5wmYOLLZshtXpAcvsjvw0p7v0dh7AWo8RLJgK67ysvSINQKIon-DXLpdKXS9oH80AwCoC2csq7KaNRIAVPePd9JzVq5GJjHkt9u3R9zsCv-tlSSgio/s1600/IMG_5005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV5iiNFYX1_AABDDwpzwTYtQ-eN5wmYOLLZshtXpAcvsjvw0p7v0dh7AWo8RLJgK67ysvSINQKIon-DXLpdKXS9oH80AwCoC2csq7KaNRIAVPePd9JzVq5GJjHkt9u3R9zsCv-tlSSgio/s400/IMG_5005.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.kipsbaydecoratorshowhouse.org/visit">Want to visit?</a> It's a must! Become inspired. The show house is located at 163 East 63rd Street (between Lexington Avenue and Third Avenue) in New York City, Manhattan. Admission is $30 per ticket. The house is open this year from April 28th to May 26th. Enjoy!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV5iiNFYX1_AABDDwpzwTYtQ-eN5wmYOLLZshtXpAcvsjvw0p7v0dh7AWo8RLJgK67ysvSINQKIon-DXLpdKXS9oH80AwCoC2csq7KaNRIAVPePd9JzVq5GJjHkt9u3R9zsCv-tlSSgio/s1600/IMG_5005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-82220091224267150872011-02-06T19:54:00.008-05:002011-02-06T23:45:39.208-05:00Nary Manivong is Dressed to Impress<div style="text-align: justify;"><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF Culture" data-url="http://astyleofculture.blogspot.com" data-via="AStyleoFCulture" href="http://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a><script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript">
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In an effort to support up-and-coming designers in the Big Apple and the belief that if you make it here (New York City) you can make it anywhere, it was only natural to see the movie <a href="http://www.dressed-themovie.com/"><i>Dressed</i></a>. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxEK-Tb9VORvjzDWXGttgIV4hlNdaKHoJeEuwYOG1Taedn1tIHOKsEzwUld3NVyJ-l8r9i-ms8mLluB5GyHmlZcXB8zg6d8jVD2XnI0R18t4FKUI8hV34xVz1fhRH9YDo3Ti_poEJxays/s1600/dressed-poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxEK-Tb9VORvjzDWXGttgIV4hlNdaKHoJeEuwYOG1Taedn1tIHOKsEzwUld3NVyJ-l8r9i-ms8mLluB5GyHmlZcXB8zg6d8jVD2XnI0R18t4FKUI8hV34xVz1fhRH9YDo3Ti_poEJxays/s400/dressed-poster.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">The documentary film, which premiered in select theaters on Friday, February 4th, follows fashion designer <a href="http://www.narymanivong.com/">Nary Manivong</a> and his humble beginning as an aspiring designer in one of the most cutthroat cities in the world for fashion, New York City. In the city of dreams, one day you're hot and the next day you can, simply, be old news. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">With a rough childhood, growing up in poverty, and homeless by the age of fourteen, Nary Manivong faced adversity and rose up from the weighty hardships he experienced in his hometown of <a href="http://www.columbus.gov/">Columbus, Ohio</a> to make something of himself. As a young teen, Nary worked multiple jobs to survive, all while attending high school. His evenings were spent in public establishments like a local donut shop, where he would reside for the night in order to gain sleep. Fortunately, Nary did not allow this low point in his life to hinder him from pursuing his found love for fashion and designing his namesake collection. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Never allowing himself to fail, even during moments of weakness, the film illustrates how Nary's past drives him to only do better and be better in life. With only about five-thousand dollars saved to create his first collection, moviegoers are taken on an inspirational ride as Nary struggles to produce and debut his line during New York's <a href="http://www.mbfashionweek.com/">Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week</a>. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The film is accompanied with commentary from elite fashion insiders, such as designer <a href="http://www.nanettelepore.com/">Nanette Lepore,</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fern_Mallis">Fern Mallis</a> formerly with <a href="http://www.imgworld.com/services/consulting/fashion.aspx">IMG</a>, <a href="http://www.simondoonan.net/home/">Simon Doonan</a> Creative Director of <a href="http://www.barneys.com/">Barneys New York,</a> <a href="http://www.papermag.com/mr_mickey/">Mickey Boardman</a> of <i><a href="http://www.papermag.com/">Paper</a> </i>magazine, <a href="http://www.newschool.edu/facultyexperts/faculty.aspx?id=23890">Simon Collins</a> Dean of <a href="http://www.newschool.edu/facultyexperts/subpage.aspx?id=23508">Parsons The New School for Design</a>, and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lynn_Yaeger">Lynn Yaeger</a> formerly with the <i><a href="http://www.villagevoice.com/">Village Voice</a>,</i> who all provide insight into the raw, competitive world of fashion, that so many, season after season, attempt to draw incredible success and recognition from, yet only a few triumph. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Enjoy this trailer for <i>Dressed:</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="400" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/DsaEQpKQcCk" title="YouTube video player" width="425"></iframe> </i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Keep an eye out for Nary Manivong and his collaboration with <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1492991/">Ally Hilfiger</a> for their debut Fall 2011 collection this season of <a href="http://www.wwd.com/fashion-news/fashion-changelings-nahm-3458874">NAHM</a> (Nary Ally Hilfiger Manivong). </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Image and Video: Courtesy of <a href="http://www.google.com/images?q=dressed+poster&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&source=og&sa=N&hl=en&tab=wi&biw=1382&bih=774">Google Images</a> and <a href="http://youtube.com/">YouTube</a>)</span>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-16704029249318621992011-02-06T16:33:00.014-05:002011-02-10T01:05:49.852-05:00SyFy is Cool Again!<div style="text-align: justify;"><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF Culture" data-url="http://astyleofculture.blogspot.com" data-via="AStyleoFCulture" href="http://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a><script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript">
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It is a new year and a new approach for the <a href="http://www.syfy.com/">SyFy channel</a>. Back in 2009, the network changed its name after formerly being known as the "Sci-Fi" channel. In an attempt to leave their "geek" image behind and hopeful to expand on a more diverse audience, the network changed their name feeling as though it would help to gain a broader audience, particularly women viewers. In an article on <a href="http://www.tvweek.com/news/2009/03/sci_fi_channel_aims_to_shed_ge.php">TVweek.com</a>, Jon Lafayette interviews TV Historian, Tim Brooks, who played a role in the network's humble beginnings while at USA network, with Brooks explaining:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"The name Sci Fi has been associated with geeks and dysfunctional, antisocial boys in their basements with video games and stuff like that, as opposed to the general public and the female audience in particular."<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Although it has been <i>many </i>years since the childhood days of watching shows like <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0096708/"><i>Tales from the Crypt</i></a> and<i> <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0112111/">The Outer Limits</a> </i>as well as the broadcast syndication of <i><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0096684/">Quantum Leap</a>, </i>the Syfy Channel has managed to spark a renewed interest in the network and its shows.<br />
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Two original shows that are helping to revive the network's credibility amongst its old and new audience are <a href="http://www.syfy.com/faceoff/"><i>Face Off</i></a> and <i><a href="http://www.syfy.com/beinghuman/">Being Human</a>. </i>Having debuted only several weeks ago, the new shows display their adaptability to the current times of reality television dominating our DVRs and Tivo sets and, in recent years, the youth's fascination with vampires and werewolves with books like the <i><a href="http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/twilight.html">Twilight</a> </i>saga and the <a href="http://www.cwtv.com/"><i>CW </i>television</a> series, <a href="http://www.cwtv.com/shows/the-vampire-diaries"><i>The Vampire Diaries</i></a> playing on the fancy for the immortal and the undead.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.syfy.com/faceoff/about"><i>Face Off </i></a>- A reality show focusing on the talents of special effects makeup artists and their magnificent imagination and fantastic creativity, put contestants to the test each week by competing in varying degrees of challenges involving special effects makeup. The grand prize of $100,000.00 and a year's worth of makeup from <a href="http://www.alconeco.com/">Alcone</a> are at stake in this inside look of those who create the creatures and monsters we love to fear. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEtlWeOoprUEDWXRFAfdSLgE2tkdMDuYIYFgjxnKQtn8HTktZ-H9j9k6CIMliKWLGMkAQmWayfc4yPfvICMdfJhmwBZGGZQge79Y8Gf0wNgmwSDr7QR2zTO5WuDzC8k9wr2HHkpvqM24Y/s1600/Face-Off.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEtlWeOoprUEDWXRFAfdSLgE2tkdMDuYIYFgjxnKQtn8HTktZ-H9j9k6CIMliKWLGMkAQmWayfc4yPfvICMdfJhmwBZGGZQge79Y8Gf0wNgmwSDr7QR2zTO5WuDzC8k9wr2HHkpvqM24Y/s400/Face-Off.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><a href="http://www.syfy.com/beinghuman/about">Being Human</a> - </i>A television series that revolves around three roommates, all who are not your "normal" crowd with Aidan (<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1022429/">Sam Witwer</a>) the vampire, Josh (<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0403134/">Sam Huntington</a>) the werewolf, and Sally (<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1012010/">Meaghan Rath</a>) the ghost. All living under one roof, the three characters battle with accepting their nature while trying to lead regular human lives out in public. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbvVziN9omAl5F5OXgOV0REpDfF5G-lj8o4adHeznePy6GrDzTrSmbMSHPbG_z7qNrdkdNxKoV1BmnTEyh5e3bOYNrKkFja0pSQS55QekehRqE2xkZ3VMD2OinWopkX4RufAhKQpIYuk/s1600/being_human_US_poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbvVziN9omAl5F5OXgOV0REpDfF5G-lj8o4adHeznePy6GrDzTrSmbMSHPbG_z7qNrdkdNxKoV1BmnTEyh5e3bOYNrKkFja0pSQS55QekehRqE2xkZ3VMD2OinWopkX4RufAhKQpIYuk/s400/being_human_US_poster.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Images: Courtesy of <a href="http://syfy.com/">SyFy.com</a>)</span>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-64648111280853312062011-01-27T00:08:00.003-05:002011-01-28T12:11:35.948-05:00Give Me Drama, Give Me Valentino!<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><right><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span> <br />
The couture reviews keep on coming and this time it's <a href="http://www.valentino.com/#/en/home/">Valentino</a> in the <a href="http://astyleofculture.blogspot.com/">ASFC </a>(A Style of Culture) spotlight. Wednesday evening the merveilleuse Chiuri and incroyable Piccioli, the creative duo behind Valentino, presented a collection that included gowns that seemed to revisit the Edwardian Era with hints of the Elizabethan Ruff. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the latter half of the Valentino show, gowns of dramatic, yet subtle detailing with frilled trims, tiered ruffles, and gathers of chiffon, nostalgic of the late-1800s to early-1900s, were shown. Reflective of the past, each look spoke volumes with the softness and weightless ease they evoked, as the models walked with graceful fragility. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Unable to contain my excitement for these simple, yet skillfully constructed gowns, I chose my top four looks that captured the mood of the garments, for your viewing pleasure. Enjoy!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_4n_eUGERsDqK-dpabYPKYkedwX6Od1kxlr8iry7AgH5LwlNBLFzG-jT_huFmzJr80EVfO5s-TAjqOnJ4CqQCHqB4ESeGjAgsSCOpwSpLkAAoTwkLe8MrhOLuVsOzp0625v6rJmX2KyA/s1600/Picture+6.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_4n_eUGERsDqK-dpabYPKYkedwX6Od1kxlr8iry7AgH5LwlNBLFzG-jT_huFmzJr80EVfO5s-TAjqOnJ4CqQCHqB4ESeGjAgsSCOpwSpLkAAoTwkLe8MrhOLuVsOzp0625v6rJmX2KyA/s400/Picture+6.png" width="400" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFFqiLfZk-Vqb5kqtyRkHXRzToae5T50DsF0CHpkpPygE0zhXqGrWgdmDYV6nBacGJ4gmMYDlS5cFmO8f510PnLI7fRpLyWrJKefEsRuaWfka-RlQPDCe3hvDJLIw1de2pxwk3LdzYRL0/s1600/Picture+7.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFFqiLfZk-Vqb5kqtyRkHXRzToae5T50DsF0CHpkpPygE0zhXqGrWgdmDYV6nBacGJ4gmMYDlS5cFmO8f510PnLI7fRpLyWrJKefEsRuaWfka-RlQPDCe3hvDJLIw1de2pxwk3LdzYRL0/s400/Picture+7.png" width="400" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Images: Courtesy of <a href="http://style.com/">Style.com</a>)</span><br />
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</div>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-40559793609781443012011-01-26T19:10:00.004-05:002011-01-28T12:13:05.319-05:00Elie Saab: Haute For 2011 Academy Awards<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><right><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF
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With Paris Couture Week well underway, there is one designer that seems to be offering quite a number of possible red carpet gowns for this year's <a href="http://oscar.go.com/">Academy Awards</a>. Being held on February 27th at Hollywood's famed <a href="http://www.kodaktheatre.com/">Kodak Theatre</a>, the Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, is the premier event of awards season. Therefore, female celebs make it a point to look their absolute best for this one night of ultimate recognition of theatrical performances. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.eliesaab.com/">Elie Saab's</a> couture show today presented beautiful gowns that offer up dazzling options for top stylists like <a href="http://www.rachelzoe.com/">Rachel Zoe</a> to pull for the Awards later next month. Primarily solid colored gowns with soft textures, Elie Saab created a beautiful romance of elegance and style. With the combination of lace hints, weightless chiffons, and intricate beading throughout the collection, it is as if the designer was inspired by an ethereal figure. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Because Elie Saab's couture collection presents some amazing options for this year's highly anticipated red carpet event, I've narrowed the forty-one looks down to my top eight. Which glamourous A-list female celebs will walk the red carpet in one of these gowns? Only time will tell.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUFzDIW_B9jCpIqw361qXTQxV2EVzyqf_pzoiYbCSaMpVJYworKiAS_Lfn5AhL1amDlbMK55g8T3M3XpmFLsRQfgRSELKLJOjwAW8MiG6N3vZVlqT1XJgHPYHv5bSHX3KoD8u8HmvF_5U/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUFzDIW_B9jCpIqw361qXTQxV2EVzyqf_pzoiYbCSaMpVJYworKiAS_Lfn5AhL1amDlbMK55g8T3M3XpmFLsRQfgRSELKLJOjwAW8MiG6N3vZVlqT1XJgHPYHv5bSHX3KoD8u8HmvF_5U/s400/Picture+1.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxRcIYMQEX_SBZ6UFYIYp9YHYP7xkMC7zvM0GDUEV2Kc0MWPLM6TUcI29J8UMrDR7leE2adhpUpq5HwrLvZesMLc4gjBy_zGwmvpb-7vkx1wbk7u0Z0KCRMtsj5o3dOThurZFQbf_-DxM/s1600/Picture+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxRcIYMQEX_SBZ6UFYIYp9YHYP7xkMC7zvM0GDUEV2Kc0MWPLM6TUcI29J8UMrDR7leE2adhpUpq5HwrLvZesMLc4gjBy_zGwmvpb-7vkx1wbk7u0Z0KCRMtsj5o3dOThurZFQbf_-DxM/s400/Picture+4.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBnXWtb7oVKF5Cwmr14sO1dQr1acZe2WjVjIc6aF4rOZAM8sZIf6-yNzGLO8fJol5Hdx1Hb2t14AA40VRfA8eUCsa7_Eaq2_d6J6QgjfknfvbycEs6zcyTKMnSmVrQ4VI-p-vnujrvSyA/s1600/Picture+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBnXWtb7oVKF5Cwmr14sO1dQr1acZe2WjVjIc6aF4rOZAM8sZIf6-yNzGLO8fJol5Hdx1Hb2t14AA40VRfA8eUCsa7_Eaq2_d6J6QgjfknfvbycEs6zcyTKMnSmVrQ4VI-p-vnujrvSyA/s400/Picture+5.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkuXlX0PyXq39kitq3HkcxQWpfoU4d5UyCKhxFS7T3sYWFO1BPZo8H3x30sj57jO-GCRkHzrA4KOtmdqBEPQ0KuQSZ8Aw1ODhDbs8i3bXOMN3u5kZJ_V1KlssiXT7DOh4DEW5QBjVVAKA/s1600/Picture+6.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkuXlX0PyXq39kitq3HkcxQWpfoU4d5UyCKhxFS7T3sYWFO1BPZo8H3x30sj57jO-GCRkHzrA4KOtmdqBEPQ0KuQSZ8Aw1ODhDbs8i3bXOMN3u5kZJ_V1KlssiXT7DOh4DEW5QBjVVAKA/s400/Picture+6.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Images: Courtesy of <a href="http://style.com/">Style.com</a>)</span>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-80827499113409278502011-01-26T00:05:00.014-05:002011-01-28T12:13:32.922-05:00Paris Haute Couture Collections: The Past In Full Blossom<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><right><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF
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Outside it does not seem like the weather is going to heat up soon enough for us to shed the layers of clothing we've been wearing all winter. However, in Paris things are getting Haute! The Spring-Summer 2011 Paris Haute Couture week has commenced and the fashion world is ready to blossom for the nearing warmer seasons.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">With varying color palettes, fresh and flowy silhouettes, and designs much resembling those of the past, particularly those of the fifties, this week's shows, in my opinion, have seemingly reflected on fashion magazine covers of the past. I noticed that certain looks reminded me of illustrations that have graced the vintage covers of <a href="http://www.vogue.com/"><i>Vogue</i></a>. Therefore, I chose my favorite looks from the shows currently posted on <a href="http://style.com/">Style.com</a> and paired them with images of covers that could have easily inspired what is coming down the runway this week.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_543784420"><br />
</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.alexismabille.com/"><i>Alexis Mabille</i></a></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The mastermind behind his namesake label came up with a clever concept this season by creating gowns in both white and in color. With the white version coming out first and then followed by the colored version, there is a sense of the yin and yang being displayed with each look. I was drawn to this red gown, a colorway of the same silhouette in white. With its vibrant red hue against a white background, the look became reminiscent of this January 1950 cover.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.armani.com/"><b><i></i></b></a><b><i><a href="ttp://www.giorgioarmani.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Armani Privé</span></a> </i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mr. Armani will always be one of the greatest designers of our time and he never seems to fail each season, producing such great designs for women of the world. With the warmer months approaching, he has a created a collection that speaks of fluidity displayed like liquid mercury swimming over the female form. Bold blues, rich turquoise, and ruby reds walked the runway showing an elegant edge of style. I loved this luminous jacket complemented with the metallic necklace, and topped off with a hat right out of the fifties, just like this cover from June 1950. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.chanel.com/"><i>Chanel</i></a></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Lord Lagerfeld can never disappoint. He IS the master of fashion! With a palette of pale pinks and soft greys, Lagerfeld has yet again created another beautiful, wondrous collection of elegance and tasteful style. With models walking in ballet flats, the garments felt light and effortless, with each model looking as if each step she took was soft and gentle. He managed to embody the idea of feeling playfully, pretty in pink (say that five times fast)! This look from the collection caught my attention as it helped to portray the essence of the show, luxury and richness with ease, like this cover from April 1952. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><i><a href="http://www.dior.com/file/prehome_new/index.html">Christian Dior</a></i></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">John Galliano knows romance and he knows how to create it well! For this season he seems to have taken inspiration from the 1940s, which is apparent in everything from the make-up and accessories to the garments themselves. For Galliano the collection, as <a href="http://www.style.com/stylefile/tag/tim-blanks/">Tim Blanks </a>writes on <a href="http://style.com/">Style.com</a>, was a:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"salute to René Gruau, the illustrator whose work for Christian Dior in the forties and fifties created the house's most iconic imagery, felt like it had been a long time coming, not just because of the designer's own early aspirations, but because it gave him another opportunity to indulge his passion for an era when couture was truly haute."</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">With its feather accents and dramatic gathers of fabric, I found one gown in particular to be reminiscent of the elegance of the twenties like this cover from January 1925.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.givenchy.com/"><i>Givenchy</i></a></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The creativity of Riccardo Tisci always seems to venture into an amazing world of fantasy. The edgy construction paired with contrasting romantic silhouettes, creates a mood both hard and soft, all at the same time. One element that inspired this visionary designer were the performing arts of Japan, as <a href="http://www.style.com/stylefile/tag/tim-blanks/">Tim Blanks</a> detailed on <a href="http://style.com/">Style.com</a>. In addition, it seems as though, the garments also became inspired by the simple, structural modernity the Japanese display in everything from their architecturally clean lines to their disciplined way of life. I found this look to possess a chic elegance with a very structured top surrounding the bodice and then flowing into a very soft, weightless floor length petticoat-type skirting. It reminded me of this cover from November 1953.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Images: Courtesy of <a href="http://style.com/">Style.com</a> and <a href="http://www.google.com/images?hl=en&sugexp=gsihc&xhr=t&q=vintage+vogue+covers&cp=15&qe=dmludGFnZSB2b2d1ZSBj&qesig=Y4pbyIOaPdqUK4otlLjAIw&pkc=AFgZ2tmRvJ2_PyeIT67dUcjrkpa9zn9QWFQnvQRSmF5OUC4mYcbFN5Op_pbPBGyW-BNMMh67ClfIY-2hU2DEYH0DW43oXZ1Mqg&client=firefox-a&hs=dFe&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&um=1&ie=UTF-8&source=og&sa=N&tab=wi&biw=1117&bih=774">Google Images</a>)</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-83005858939355587232011-01-25T17:45:00.010-05:002011-01-28T12:13:44.276-05:00Dolce & Gabbana Do It Right!<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><right><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">As all of the glamourous fashionistas, handsome fashionistos, budget conscious buyers, and fabulous editors gear up for the Fall 2011 shows for <a href="http://www.mbfashionweek.com/home">Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week</a>, which kicks off February 9th, I wanted to do a last minute review of one of my favorite high fashion labels: <a href="http://www.dolcegabbana.com/">Dolce & Gabbana</a>.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">Since high school, I have been such a big fan of Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana and the amazing work they produce each season. The two designers always manage to capture the essence of masculine sexy and cool. From the slim fits to the sharp, detailed construction of the clothing, these Italian masters of fashion design never fail to display and exude an unparalleled style that is all their own.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">This season for <a href="http://www.dolcegabbana.com/dg/fashion-show/">Fall-Winter 2011-2012</a>, the designers and their team decorated the Milano Men's show with tones of grey, hints of white, and shades of blood red. Walking the runway were supermodel regulars such as Noah Mills, David Gandy, and Adam Senn, who are all apart of the core circle of models the designers use both on the runway as well as in their advertising campaigns. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;">One particular, yet simple piece that was of strong interest was a basic button up shirt that showed on the runway in white and charcoal. Although appearing non-distinctive at first glance, the shirt can be considered just a shirt and nothing more. However, with one simple twist of constructive detail, the designers added a built-in, fabric tie clip. Something as little as the utilitarian addition transformed a classic men's shirt into a fully functional, yet, ever so, stylish top. Yes, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to add such a detail, but the detail, however uncomplicated, was simply genius!</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_d4Ham8p6wHGevawBWTmebJe2zFEyPRwXQ2U3gScd8MFxHoBCeOMoZHjYFhwB9EQ2dVbX-sjfYpeXiLa5m_rHdbibpDAFtllFyPcvFBt1zkioE2GGa-6S8HlEWoaOo_oL__evuXul-ec/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_d4Ham8p6wHGevawBWTmebJe2zFEyPRwXQ2U3gScd8MFxHoBCeOMoZHjYFhwB9EQ2dVbX-sjfYpeXiLa5m_rHdbibpDAFtllFyPcvFBt1zkioE2GGa-6S8HlEWoaOo_oL__evuXul-ec/s400/Picture+1.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Another piece that had a fashion moment was the thick knit, black and white, wide-striped sweater that model Arthur Sales wore with such manly, lumberjack appeal. There is something that definitely makes an individual just want it (and I mean the sweater)! It reminds us of a take on a gorge <a href="http://www.isabelmarant.tm.fr/index-en.php">Isabel Marant</a> sweater a la Kate Moss for Isabel's Fall-Winter 2010-2011 campaign. Dies!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguWVSDpjL7dPA0JhEbYUIdYkhNlJ8R952qFGoB9M-kajYraKd4kOhw2KGYiQAn8c7KEbR_RpQGU3FOpvEMAjRE000Ij4UuFkbVzuJC6L7J9DJGriq4B2HCLek6Y6T7keezdf5oNB3X4A4/s1600/Picture+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguWVSDpjL7dPA0JhEbYUIdYkhNlJ8R952qFGoB9M-kajYraKd4kOhw2KGYiQAn8c7KEbR_RpQGU3FOpvEMAjRE000Ij4UuFkbVzuJC6L7J9DJGriq4B2HCLek6Y6T7keezdf5oNB3X4A4/s400/Picture+4.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Whether horizontal stripes or vertical stripes, narrow and wide, become part of some of the big trends this upcoming Fall, Dolce & Gabbana still remain at the top of their game. The fabulous duo continue to turn out amazing, wearable men's designs that are sure to make any man feel molto provocante y fresco!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Images: Courtesy of <a href="http://www.dolcegabbana.com/">Dolce & Gabbana</a>, <a href="http://www.isabelmarant.tm.fr/campagns-fw1011.php">Isabel Marant</a>)</span></div>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-82776635560047723052011-01-09T01:04:00.012-05:002011-01-28T12:17:38.110-05:00Steamy, Sexy...Adam Levine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmCjgetEScWthyphenhyphenGwmkScZXtD7ktfPF4FLmYTXYuRzbDunp3qxbjvXZanaQ1lsMB18zeRvQ4kYKP1bwGNA8xdZ0StDNp_ZhVOP2Cd7198UORJs1W9MZkelQ9oxiEkAk5WPXAxa5shHM1cY/s1600/Picture+6.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmCjgetEScWthyphenhyphenGwmkScZXtD7ktfPF4FLmYTXYuRzbDunp3qxbjvXZanaQ1lsMB18zeRvQ4kYKP1bwGNA8xdZ0StDNp_ZhVOP2Cd7198UORJs1W9MZkelQ9oxiEkAk5WPXAxa5shHM1cY/s400/Picture+6.png" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"><right><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Earlier this week, the media highlighted the racy coverage featured in <a href="http://www.cosmopolitan.co.uk/"><i>Cosmopolitan UK's</i></a> STEAMY February 2011 issue. It all starts with their top centerfold male, <a href="http://www.maroon5.com/">Maroon 5</a> front man,<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1747013/"> Adam Levine</a> in his uber sexy photos exposing everything except his most private asset (which we all know, if allowed, would be revealed without hesitation). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We all know February is the month of love with Valentine's Day representing that special time when all couples, lovers, and swingers alike will spend a day "loving" one another in their own personal ways. However, after seeing <i>Cosmo</i>'s lineup of gorgeously displayed men in their birthday suits, there is only one thing on my mind on this year's cupid day. *wink*</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Not much more to say here, except that all you straight women and gay men...ENJOY! Happy Early Valentine's Day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">For the rest of <i>Cosmo'</i>s centerfold picks, click <a href="http://www.cosmopolitan.co.uk/men/cosmopolitan-celebrity-male-centrefolds/111587/gallery?theme=cosmopolitan">here</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Images: Courtesy of <a href="http://www.cosmopolitan.co.uk/men/cosmopolitan-celebrity-male-centrefolds/111587/gallery?theme=cosmopolitan"><i>Cosmopolitan UK</i></a> and <a href="http://www.google.com/images?um=1&hl=en&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla%3Aen-US%3Aofficial&biw=1385&bih=774&tbs=isch%3A1&sa=1&q=adam+levine+cosmo+2011+naked&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=">Google Images</a>)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-66393760354021412832011-01-09T00:16:00.009-05:002011-01-28T12:21:14.220-05:00The February Frump<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jJBlu6fED0EPx9WHKohxsijpvp0lQsJSylLkWsQgMtMHm3YpsqykOK-eNsTHAo8Mj40kQRkXr9_qLHT8a709BmWVAZ7wIsdQhiCmfSlIzWYiE8vKIm1QhzSDntjdfooUXwkvqXaGmho/s1600/Picture+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jJBlu6fED0EPx9WHKohxsijpvp0lQsJSylLkWsQgMtMHm3YpsqykOK-eNsTHAo8Mj40kQRkXr9_qLHT8a709BmWVAZ7wIsdQhiCmfSlIzWYiE8vKIm1QhzSDntjdfooUXwkvqXaGmho/s400/Picture+3.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><right><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF Culture" data-url="http://astyleofculture.blogspot.com/" data-via="AStyleoFCulture" href="http://twitter.com/share">Tweet</a><script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript">
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Frumpy? Matronly? What should be thought of a couple of February 2011 covers on stands for readers this month, has editorial become too comfortable? Or are they trying to counteract any potential advertising slumps? We are all entitled to our own views and opinions. However, some well known magazines have left chic and edgy at the doorstep when entering this new year and they are keeping it simple, easy, and a bit dowdy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The two women above, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000569/">Gwyneth Paltrow</a> and <a href="http://www.victoriabeckham.com/">Victoria Beckham</a>, are some of the most attractive and most fashionable women celebrities today. Oddly enough, it seems as though <a href="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/"><i>Good Housekeeping</i></a> and <a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/"><i>Vogue UK</i></a> took a turn in another direction by keeping it basic and minimal this February. Could it possibly be because of the big spring fashion issues that will be coming out this March that they have decided to keep it bland the month before? Whatever the reason or inspiration may be, they have definitely kept their covers toned down. Although both women are mothers, it does not mean that they have to look the part, and in a bad way. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Good Housekeeping</i> lets it all hang out with Gwyneth in that poorly styled turtleneck that seems to have a bit more yardage than needed. Despite the fact that they are not a fashion magazine, the pieces used on Gwyneth could have been chosen more carefully. Fortunately, <i>Vogue UK</i> kept it a bit more chic with Victoria's hair blowing and keeping the sweater tone a neutral, clay-like hue and sans a visual on the bottoms. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Regardless of the February frump, got to love Gweny and Vicks, still so fabulous, so fierce!</div><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Images: Courtesy of <a href="http://www.google.com/images?um=1&hl=en&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla%3Aen-US%3Aofficial&biw=1385&bih=774&tbs=isch%3A1&sa=1&q=gwenyth+paltrow+cover+feb+2011&aq=f&aqi=&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=">Google</a> <a href="http://www.google.com/images?q=victoria+beckham+cover+feb+2011&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&source=og&sa=N&hl=en&tab=wi&biw=1385&bih=774">Images</a>)</span>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-9096406655055273092010-12-05T03:47:00.029-05:002011-01-28T12:23:07.627-05:00GLEEming Star: Darren Criss<div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm4v__kB97RFEPSfyBm7R-vNDw-cZEIjJzhTLobiZs1HY8ZWaNLxCps1IA_kvD96fc7hU5IAKZQh2s4NZczEQIdoCTL5ljLRn4CDhym27NNLP8xlwrXtfc8z4YLDZSwsk4KLtVaLD_poI/s1600/Darren-Criss-iii.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm4v__kB97RFEPSfyBm7R-vNDw-cZEIjJzhTLobiZs1HY8ZWaNLxCps1IA_kvD96fc7hU5IAKZQh2s4NZczEQIdoCTL5ljLRn4CDhym27NNLP8xlwrXtfc8z4YLDZSwsk4KLtVaLD_poI/s400/Darren-Criss-iii.jpg" width="400" /></a><right><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF
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A new cast member of <a href="http://www.fox.com/">FOX's</a> musical phenomenon, <a href="http://www.fox.com/glee/"><i>Glee</i></a>, <a href="http://darrencriss.snappages.com/home.htm">Darren Criss</a> has struck the fancy of the show's fans, creating a lot of buzz with his amazing vocal talents and his adorable boy-like charm. Playing the character of Blaine, at the fictional rival school, Dalton Academy, Darren displays, both, his ability to sing and to act, which has made a positive stamp on his already rapidly growing career.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Originally born in San Francisco, California of Filipino and Irish decent, the 23 year-old sensation is grabbing the attention of fans through his soulful voice that encompasses a soothing, passionate, and charismatic sound. Addtionally, Darren's acting skills are not too bad either. His adorable smile and handsome looks seem to get you every time.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJmrQiQD9dNlXJlxBfdHtPz7Ow5acT9Uk8tpdsGXyUCVtQLRWWKYXi2kubK3ZEMbcZJNvecMd1KTlvcxW8mAhNTWj0CE9lkS7DUT85pXSB6RrXk-PxQ0FSlti-b4TcIqgD6fOLFe_Zzs/s1600/doc4ce1c9a75eef8172588355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2Ltjhc-L3NFuyFfu0AaF9ntbeJA2dd0ICarM9mrRXwG5gGzTWdfiZKyJHyxIm3qppjqoq5cEbXJVYSLYclnHq6lZ6lTK0mySXobU7yQv1inoi3Ge8VPS_QKLnT5HSELqCo_c71EPeSc/s1600/MV5BMjE2Mjg1NTQwMV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwMzYzNDUwNA%2540%2540._V1._SX640_SY963_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2Ltjhc-L3NFuyFfu0AaF9ntbeJA2dd0ICarM9mrRXwG5gGzTWdfiZKyJHyxIm3qppjqoq5cEbXJVYSLYclnHq6lZ6lTK0mySXobU7yQv1inoi3Ge8VPS_QKLnT5HSELqCo_c71EPeSc/s400/MV5BMjE2Mjg1NTQwMV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwMzYzNDUwNA%2540%2540._V1._SX640_SY963_.jpg" width="265" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
Playing the role of Blaine is Darren's biggest role so far. However, the character of Blaine is not your "traditional" teenage, prep-school boy. Blaine is a homosexual male who befriends the recently "out of the closet" character Kurt (played by actor <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3182094/">Chris Colfer</a>) and becomes his confidant and, in many ways, Kurt's gay mentor. Blaine shows Kurt that being gay is acceptable in a high school setting like at Dalton Academy. Darren's character seems to have a recurring appearance on the show, helping Kurt through various social situations dealing with discrimination and bigotry. The show, as a whole , addresses the varying issues of growing up in high school, combatting the negativity that many teenagers face in their day-to-day lives. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thank <i>Glee</i> for discovering a burgeoning, talented young man. We will be sure to keep track of Darren's career as the years progress. Be sure to check out Darren's EP album<i> <a href="http://darrencriss.snappages.com/music.htm">Human</a></i> to get a taste of his soulful tunes.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">Following are a couple of fave performances by Darren. One from a live performance at the <a href="http://www.troubadour.com/">Troubadour</a> in West Hollywood, California and another of his cover of <a href="http://www.trainline.com/us/home">Train</a>'s "Hey Soul Sister" with the cast of young men from Dalton Academy on <i>Glee.</i><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Photos: Courtesy of <a href="http://www.imdb.com/">IMDb</a>, Videos: Courtesy of <a href="http://www.youtube.com/">YouTube</a>)</span>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-41060525314130126202010-11-24T22:38:00.007-05:002011-01-28T12:23:31.465-05:00Kanye, Ye, Yeezy, Mr. West!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBEEwlzYTBe3W1wZPn9i27uublgUaN8cHu6AceR3CoUkkeEI6DM3cbKaw5s0OuB-WAm9183f1gD5FEBuSxN02cq1NyN3Q6MN6RXInrFbuWJODOy_0hvAZI-ErsndxvlBowZAuS8fXqCvY/s1600/kanye-west-my-beautiful-dark-twisted-fantasy-album-cover-1-for-itunes.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBEEwlzYTBe3W1wZPn9i27uublgUaN8cHu6AceR3CoUkkeEI6DM3cbKaw5s0OuB-WAm9183f1gD5FEBuSxN02cq1NyN3Q6MN6RXInrFbuWJODOy_0hvAZI-ErsndxvlBowZAuS8fXqCvY/s400/kanye-west-my-beautiful-dark-twisted-fantasy-album-cover-1-for-itunes.png" width="400" /></a></div><right><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF
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<div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://kanyewest.com/">Kanye West</a> is definitely not a disappointment when it comes to delivering hot beats, original tracks, and tunes that will blaze in your head forever. On Monday, November 22nd, his "ye-ness" released his fifth studio album, <i><a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/my-beautiful-dark-twisted/id403837134">My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy</a>,</i> that fans were raving about way before it even dropped. With "Good Fridays" by way of <a href="http://kanyewest.com/">Kanye's website</a>, he graced fans with weekly releases of new singles for their hearing pleasure.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">An amazing rapper, lyricist, and verbal poet, Kanye West has come back with a more upbeat album that reflects his amazing talent. With great collaborations from <a href="http://ww2.eltonjohn.com/union/index.html">Elton John</a> to <a href="http://twitter.com/pusha_T">Pusha T</a>, from <a href="http://kidcudi.com/">Kid Cudi</a> to <a href="http://fergie.blackeyedpeas.com/">Fergie</a>, Kanye reinforces the fact that he is one of the best rap artists of the last decade, and arguably, one of the best rap artists of all time, along with those who precede him like the Notorius B.I.G., <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tupac_Shakur">Tupac</a>, and <a href="http://www.jay-z.com/index.php">Jay-Z</a>. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yes, Kanye can be very "confident" in his talents and skills as a rap artist. However, can you blame him? He always delivers each time he releases an album. Of course, some modesty could be expressed, but when you're <i>that</i> successful, it is okay to boast, every now and then.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The music continues on with Kanye releasing a collaborative album with Jay-Z titled <i><a href="http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1650855/20101026/west_kanye.jhtml">Watch the Throne</a>, </i>set to be released in 2011. Be sure to keep an ear out for this dynamic duo release.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Enjoy this short video of Kanye performing "All of the Lights" (my fave song on the album) last night, November 23rd, at a secret concert in New York City, held at the <a href="http://www.boweryballroom.com/">Bowery Ballroom</a>:</div><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Video: Courtesy of <a href="http://youtube.com/">YouTube</a>, Photo: Courtesy of <a href="http://www.google.com/images?q=my+beautiful+dark+twisted+fantasy&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&source=og&sa=N&hl=en&tab=wi&biw=1382&bih=774">Google Images</a>)</span>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-24134699349292983382010-11-21T11:56:00.018-05:002011-01-28T12:23:58.887-05:00Rihanna "Red-anna" Gets Loud!<div style="text-align: justify;"><right><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF
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On November 16th, <a href="http://rihannanow.com/">Rihanna</a> released her fifth studio album <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/loud/id402920935"><i>Loud</i></a> and make no mistake about the album cover, it screams "LOUD" from a distance with Rihanna's vibrant red hair bleeding off the cover and her bright red smoochers lusciously painted. Therefore, it is only appropriate to nickname this look "Red-anna."</div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ZznbR6FsFXGa2L_rKGE92miYJpcEfytzV075RYARVJ46VLQbLdmRA8yjU0q8t2qInyQ9G4valWc9d8skRIqwHLBh8M8xVgq0Q4Sc-ek0OehEjMRHZ8_qyUhDyjfifhxBcFlqdgoUjYQ/s1600/amd_rihanna_loud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ZznbR6FsFXGa2L_rKGE92miYJpcEfytzV075RYARVJ46VLQbLdmRA8yjU0q8t2qInyQ9G4valWc9d8skRIqwHLBh8M8xVgq0Q4Sc-ek0OehEjMRHZ8_qyUhDyjfifhxBcFlqdgoUjYQ/s400/amd_rihanna_loud.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This red-haired bombshell has finally returned with her new look and an attitude that celebrates her femininity. With long locks and empowering tunes, sure to make a woman feel good and desirable, Rihanna provides her female fans with a more upbeat , confident album.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfTTOOXnPMwy4DbbgP-4Td-cwHPuzuvZgUP_zWkcgTkjd2OCxSIAXMT5CJsd3FsRbWN3SJai3ZpvqYAJOTi2Ss2N8yIXotyOiJ4pLCJU2l0j_fT66AmnPYEYlN9UukGq0qmGVLmBZKH5o/s1600/alg_rihanna_loud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfTTOOXnPMwy4DbbgP-4Td-cwHPuzuvZgUP_zWkcgTkjd2OCxSIAXMT5CJsd3FsRbWN3SJai3ZpvqYAJOTi2Ss2N8yIXotyOiJ4pLCJU2l0j_fT66AmnPYEYlN9UukGq0qmGVLmBZKH5o/s400/alg_rihanna_loud.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivt3l02w21t6BOpj7yBAQTMwyprSDLJAPVHVxt1ap2Ux_hzBwRtEqZ5ADAHDE614JzCaPv_5Owxh7KCgMtbUsOz921b6GoHTxuSWvozQp0YAWuvVPzeB8cgiS_QjY9eTITkWZHjSBR0s/s1600/rihanna-loud-promo-e1288955291742.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivt3l02w21t6BOpj7yBAQTMwyprSDLJAPVHVxt1ap2Ux_hzBwRtEqZ5ADAHDE614JzCaPv_5Owxh7KCgMtbUsOz921b6GoHTxuSWvozQp0YAWuvVPzeB8cgiS_QjY9eTITkWZHjSBR0s/s400/rihanna-loud-promo-e1288955291742.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
A new, vivacious Rihanna is expressed in each song, showing that she has risen out of the dark period of her life, after the media focused on her domestic encounter with <a href="http://www.chrisbrownworld.com/">Chris Brown</a> ever since February of 2009. Coincidentally, her last album, <i>Rated R,</i> expressed an aggressive side of Rihanna that portrayed emotions she may have been feeling at the time.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Fortunately, the opposite can be said for <i>Loud</i>, where songs like "S&M," "Raining Men," and "What's My Name" express a woman's confidence in herself as well as her search for a good man, beyond all the testosterone who cannot satisfy her needs. Overall, the <i>Loud</i> album is pretty good and evokes a happier mood. Enjoy this video for Rihanna's single "What's My Name" featuring <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/thank-me-later/id376324719">Drake</a> that was filmed in New York City: </div><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Video: Courtesy of <a href="http://www.youtube.com/">YouTube</a>, Photos: Courtesy of <a href="http://www.google.com/images?hl=en&client=firefox-a&hs=ePE&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=rihanna+loud&um=1&ie=UTF-8&source=og&sa=N&tab=wi&biw=1109&bih=774">Google Images</a>)</span>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-80760764996688864782010-11-20T13:46:00.009-05:002011-01-28T12:24:48.455-05:00Mark Ronson & The Business Intl Celebrate...The 9th Decade!<div style="text-align: justify;"><right><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF
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If there is one era that fascinates my creative mind and remains a mystery, it is the 80s, the 9th decade of the 20th century. Because most of my generation was born during this period, there is not much to recall about what it was truly like living and growing up in such a free, ever growing time. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Every way of life seemed so creative, with the freedom of expression embraced and the simplicity of enjoying life, without restraints, flourishing. Whether it was the way individuals dressed or partied, all you every really hear were that the 80s was such a fun time to live. Of course, the same can be said of every decade, but yet this era seems to have made a real impact. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">With the population growth booming, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and birth of music videos on MTV, the 80s zeitgeist of being free was definitely felt by all. Expressing one's self was almost limitless. This was a colorful time with icons like Madonna, Boy George, Cindy Lauper, David Bowie, and Blondie's Deborah Harry coming out of this era and influencing a style so unique and different to society. It was not about being tailored and proper, it was about<i> being</i> you, in every sense of the word. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To pay a bit of a tribute to this amazing era, I came across this video for <a href="http://www.markronson.co.uk/us/frontpage">Mark Ronson & The Business Intl. single "Somebody to Love Me,"</a> which inspired me to write this piece. Enjoy this glimpse of Boy George and his Culture Club friends from the 80s, that celebrates his heydey. It is a little scratchy, but of course they did not have digi cams back in that day, and even this captured the essence of the time. </div><br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="320" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/16063065" width="425"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/16063065">Mark Ronson ft. Boy George 'Somebody To Love Me' - Director: Saam Farahmand</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/tomlindsay">Tom Lindsay</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Video: Courtesy of <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>)</span>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-62613753124428353092010-11-17T21:55:00.004-05:002011-01-28T12:25:07.579-05:00Quote of the Day<div style="text-align: justify;"><right><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF
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<span id="profile_status"><span id="status_text">"...Life on earth is not just about gain...Unfortunately, so many people equated lifestyle to luxury rather than equating lifestyle to a day that was pleasant -- without argument, without aggression or the need to show off." -Sir Paul Smith, in WWD</span></span></div>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-41214043259051871822010-11-06T21:49:00.007-04:002011-01-28T12:25:27.183-05:00Atomic Tom + iPhones = Creative Awesomeness!<div style="text-align: justify;"><right><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF
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Now talk about 21st Century improvisation! This video of the band <a href="http://atomictom.tumblr.com/">Atomic Tom</a> on NYC's orange B line train, playing their single "Take Me Out" with only their iPhones and a set of speakers, is truly a display of creative talent with technology. According to the video, the band had their equipment stolen and found a new, brilliant way to perform their tunes. Long live the struggling artists of NYC! No one knows the struggle to top better than the peeps of the Empire State. And, once at the top, how sweet the big apple tastes! </div><br />
<object height="385" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/NAllFWSl998?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/NAllFWSl998?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="385"></embed></object><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Video: Courtesy of <a href="http://youtube.com/">YouTube</a>)</span>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-21202715442734667182010-11-06T19:58:00.013-04:002011-01-28T12:25:50.449-05:00Pushing Chic Into Country<div style="text-align: justify;"><right><a class="twitter-share-button" data-count="none" data-text="A Style oF
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In an effort to catalog my work thus far, I wanted to share it on this blog as well. Below are images taken from my most updated portfolio, displaying either my market work (mostly) or sittings assisting. At <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/">CL</a>, fashion is very specific and particular. Therefore, it has been quite a journey to push the content of fashion into the pages, but so far it has been an enjoyable experience. Take a look at these four stories:</div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Story: <b><i>Mad For Plaid</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Photographer: <a href="http://www.johnkernick.com/">John Kernick</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stylists: <a href="http://francesbailey.com/home.htm">Frances Bailey</a>, <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/pub/dir/Katie/Woolsey/?trk=ppro_find_others">Katie Woolsey</a>, <a href="http://astyleofculture.blogspot.com/">Charles Fernandez</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Fashion Market Editor: <a href="http://astyleofculture.blogspot.com/">Charles Fernandez</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqVSvh2CGzSkZT4HVk3Cme54g6Ro6ZruNNNBI9Id7uBCl1TYhsRz9hT0k09YTKYVShF3b2DfwDdxgLth0X_GPtuUiNIxO2UX4NkJZ_YWwSkAA-OEejQFqsJCtOJ62duNrS8xtHfTP3K6s/s1600/Fashion+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqVSvh2CGzSkZT4HVk3Cme54g6Ro6ZruNNNBI9Id7uBCl1TYhsRz9hT0k09YTKYVShF3b2DfwDdxgLth0X_GPtuUiNIxO2UX4NkJZ_YWwSkAA-OEejQFqsJCtOJ62duNrS8xtHfTP3K6s/s400/Fashion+9.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3K7oxmSHOCjXDreTOBOSLTZSuIe83detaA9BR3wN1NPoR1g4oK1W6NzYVL2mwGDMD-rg92W3LHc76S350_RuYcKdjKpeilXzMeHI3EvJ1-Hm46BQAYFjjT84oyF-SGgxcK_kX1G60y6Y/s1600/Fashion+8+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3K7oxmSHOCjXDreTOBOSLTZSuIe83detaA9BR3wN1NPoR1g4oK1W6NzYVL2mwGDMD-rg92W3LHc76S350_RuYcKdjKpeilXzMeHI3EvJ1-Hm46BQAYFjjT84oyF-SGgxcK_kX1G60y6Y/s640/Fashion+8+.jpg" width="345" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Story: <b><i>Ravishing Ruffles</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Photographer: <a href="http://www.mikiduisterhof.com/">Miki Duisterhof </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stylists: <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/homes/house-tours/house-of-the-year/country-living-editors-2">Natalie Warady</a>, <a href="http://francesbailey.com/home.htm">Frances Bailey</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Fashion Market Editor/Sittings Assistant: <a href="http://astyleofculture.blogspot.com/">Charles Fernandez</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxedb7WhMOitWqef9v1mNiWqW8Ph6v738YhtIOSaNpwbjpZKg6-9lZ4MyqQ0lVw_yFFI9gHbAHNy3pvKpHHrDowwuTItQycoL3u6uhgnQLvBMeSCEDDmODhjYBlnJExs-gG4CWbmjYBlI/s1600/Fashion+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxedb7WhMOitWqef9v1mNiWqW8Ph6v738YhtIOSaNpwbjpZKg6-9lZ4MyqQ0lVw_yFFI9gHbAHNy3pvKpHHrDowwuTItQycoL3u6uhgnQLvBMeSCEDDmODhjYBlnJExs-gG4CWbmjYBlI/s400/Fashion+6.jpg" width="261" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA_DwDXUq0ABY9_qr9uhol35hT9DATtiwUQRvZfz3W3MXS5O68IPoorNBzCucqRsrULRpC7601T8jp92LDUX99IFVfHZtrBWEYCK18dJ-IWgmyRdKd-e-Gbl_U5xAdGC6Nshi7YW5xs8Y/s1600/Fashion+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA_DwDXUq0ABY9_qr9uhol35hT9DATtiwUQRvZfz3W3MXS5O68IPoorNBzCucqRsrULRpC7601T8jp92LDUX99IFVfHZtrBWEYCK18dJ-IWgmyRdKd-e-Gbl_U5xAdGC6Nshi7YW5xs8Y/s640/Fashion+5.jpg" width="340" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Story: <i><b>New-Fashioned Classics</b></i><b><i></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Produced by: Natalie Warady, <a href="http://astyleofculture.blogspot.com/">Charles Fernandez </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Photographer: <a href="http://cedricangeles.com/">Cedric Angeles</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stylist: <a href="http://www.chrisosheaphotography.com/">Chris O'Shea</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Fashion Market Editor/Sittings Assistant: <a href="http://astyleofculture.blogspot.com/">Charles Fernandez</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxM2mSzuuqzPAYNL6fZYpsuz0lnabf6rYwamlhKi0XEIvR7-TaHYK-fR9-X4o2NFw2gI5GbigJPaUZUHWVPDFnGQUTZ96g-YNovUKsaaH0UWEUa4CNuzOJGuvjuROxKM66JQmwBIC_sBI/s1600/Fashion+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxM2mSzuuqzPAYNL6fZYpsuz0lnabf6rYwamlhKi0XEIvR7-TaHYK-fR9-X4o2NFw2gI5GbigJPaUZUHWVPDFnGQUTZ96g-YNovUKsaaH0UWEUa4CNuzOJGuvjuROxKM66JQmwBIC_sBI/s400/Fashion+4.jpg" width="283" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmnEYuLR5mI20sJS-cLXfgIxpX2OJlTtAIGSUCy_BrYrrMi5AdMIWHY4RbODNtyIfgm3bfCpW0z4HJJtnGmNia31DZI2N_xP4XpYOIka-6BdEf2smqFZu9b3hpsOJ0gjN4rIETSYfYKGc/s1600/Fashion+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmnEYuLR5mI20sJS-cLXfgIxpX2OJlTtAIGSUCy_BrYrrMi5AdMIWHY4RbODNtyIfgm3bfCpW0z4HJJtnGmNia31DZI2N_xP4XpYOIka-6BdEf2smqFZu9b3hpsOJ0gjN4rIETSYfYKGc/s640/Fashion+3.jpg" width="346" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Story: <b><i>It Only Looks Rich </i></b><b><i></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Produced by: <a href="http://www.lilidiallostyle.com/">Lili Diallo</a>, <a href="http://astyleofculture.blogspot.com/">Charles Fernandez</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Photographer: <a href="http://www.susannahowe.com/">Susanna Howe</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stylist: <a href="http://www.donsumada.com/">Don Sumada</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fashion Market Editor/Sittings Assistant: <a href="http://astyleofculture.blogspot.com/">Charles Fernandez</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYIW-LXOmLAcJIbXDcaNYLqwun6Wh_WASSTy3MEMISQ7RCpWz6eX8-CCCf1g_7Papy05_Ox2AR0I84vwufcB5Or6eaHi9sHt8JBeUTavE70cF_gfB1VhSlK_HkVrAi5SyP_T4YJJ-KRSU/s1600/Fashion+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYIW-LXOmLAcJIbXDcaNYLqwun6Wh_WASSTy3MEMISQ7RCpWz6eX8-CCCf1g_7Papy05_Ox2AR0I84vwufcB5Or6eaHi9sHt8JBeUTavE70cF_gfB1VhSlK_HkVrAi5SyP_T4YJJ-KRSU/s400/Fashion+2.jpg" width="248" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Ow8fRZpT_5jWeAxnDoRNrmmimFx-eQjfOktetNixU1WYG65RfDEX6ZNZRAnRnxzYssaJdIEQAwVl0A2fbAWNXdL_bupQ39VpQL3GzbcGIUe_97ATJZlyNTBZf1u0Dd1AyGnHVqVg6H0/s1600/Fashion+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Ow8fRZpT_5jWeAxnDoRNrmmimFx-eQjfOktetNixU1WYG65RfDEX6ZNZRAnRnxzYssaJdIEQAwVl0A2fbAWNXdL_bupQ39VpQL3GzbcGIUe_97ATJZlyNTBZf1u0Dd1AyGnHVqVg6H0/s640/Fashion+1.jpg" width="340" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Photos: Courtesy of <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/">Country Living</a>)</span></div>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-58250674049039935152010-10-21T22:11:00.011-04:002011-01-28T12:26:14.433-05:00My Favorite Finger Ring, Ring Finger<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJXQLnW2Uhwtj8wdzYZItGH7t9Huv73POGeWxJ81RhcYc2gh8y9uP3oH86edI7y5Jq_deWArcwCiPXkLL8Zywcm2yDVB-5U2SpHzyVYcP-lq2Lpl-91Sg6FOXXGCmA3x5NnorZDkYuJ4A/s1600/Emma_Jules_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJXQLnW2Uhwtj8wdzYZItGH7t9Huv73POGeWxJ81RhcYc2gh8y9uP3oH86edI7y5Jq_deWArcwCiPXkLL8Zywcm2yDVB-5U2SpHzyVYcP-lq2Lpl-91Sg6FOXXGCmA3x5NnorZDkYuJ4A/s320/Emma_Jules_4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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In the spirit of the upcoming All Hallow's Eve, I found the perfect finger ring, ring finger (however you would like to reference its nomenclature) to wear that will surely be creepily fabulous! Designer <a href="http://bijulesnyc.com/">Jules Kim of Bijules Haute</a> has definitely created pieces that are artfully dark, but also maintain a quality of style and taste, in every way. Starting as low as $132.00 and rising up to $8,000.00, Jules creates pieces that are unique in character and that truly attract the eye. Gracing some of the noted fashion pages around the world from <i>Numero </i>to <i>Italian Vogue</i>, she has created a following of fashionistas and celebrities, alike, who admire her work of fantastical creativity.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilfBka2xI9bgI4sf9D2gMyMTedMKWQ_8lfeM7uW4NcjhYAiR0vCdFbIoMIDC0Z1o-qT4QYhDsyvH4OqAcFC3FKM9fhLJeZpb8Fzq_SlcU1PJ2iqk7KZ9Aw13dYjlBEV37es8g63d-c560/s1600/aha0901-16to9-023_jpg_537x302_crop_upscale_q85.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilfBka2xI9bgI4sf9D2gMyMTedMKWQ_8lfeM7uW4NcjhYAiR0vCdFbIoMIDC0Z1o-qT4QYhDsyvH4OqAcFC3FKM9fhLJeZpb8Fzq_SlcU1PJ2iqk7KZ9Aw13dYjlBEV37es8g63d-c560/s400/aha0901-16to9-023_jpg_537x302_crop_upscale_q85.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO6r60hV3Zn85SwleYMRZfL5QlBhCgVszdHN_4P8pnx2SfByk2avRppi9m1HAgQkoisGJ2c6YGwaLiH81Nf0NtzqZWGgUg8zZ5b-nU70byB_FIayPWdSOVZSswWcUQYRlTRM9UW0kIEmA/s1600/aha0901-16to9-022_jpg_537x302_crop_upscale_q85.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO6r60hV3Zn85SwleYMRZfL5QlBhCgVszdHN_4P8pnx2SfByk2avRppi9m1HAgQkoisGJ2c6YGwaLiH81Nf0NtzqZWGgUg8zZ5b-nU70byB_FIayPWdSOVZSswWcUQYRlTRM9UW0kIEmA/s400/aha0901-16to9-022_jpg_537x302_crop_upscale_q85.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPpoL2oVhi0SwXlSRtVVdPvgrZ8UWAkIczRdMz8VHmXFVf8Qi12PwObzJlUvIyPPaAXx1tKWqyRkeCqLaX3Bu7M8IQQcEZI5SQ_Niy8Np4_Tc0HPP2az6-zpijB8e9V6KUOJl0rexCQNw/s1600/aha0901-16to9-024_jpg_537x302_crop_upscale_q85.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPpoL2oVhi0SwXlSRtVVdPvgrZ8UWAkIczRdMz8VHmXFVf8Qi12PwObzJlUvIyPPaAXx1tKWqyRkeCqLaX3Bu7M8IQQcEZI5SQ_Niy8Np4_Tc0HPP2az6-zpijB8e9V6KUOJl0rexCQNw/s400/aha0901-16to9-024_jpg_537x302_crop_upscale_q85.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
Here (above) are images of her 3-piece ring (<i>The Finger Ring, </i>$2,400.00) that was molded from wax of her own finger as well as (very top) Jules, herself, photographed by <a href="http://www.emmanuelletricoire.com/">Emmanuelle Tricoire</a>, wearing the ring that personally makes me drool for more. I love statement pieces, better yet, luxurious statement pieces! </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Photos: Courtesy of <a href="http://www.ahalife.com/">Aha Life </a>and <a href="http://www.bijulesnyc.com/about">Bijules</a>)</span></div>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-28075161441669392482010-10-17T12:44:00.006-04:002011-01-28T12:26:52.131-05:00The Ultimus Gingerbread Domus<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbzhbIRYrsNQeG3tZuPXgHgIkGmI31cbwyfYetfiBsqOLeBbwt49gWCEMjgbmfPhFgd0cmxnZNReFXVFq6ShLml05-bZ3C2hI78oyvPHobqOUpnpX3nYpn0ACVgO1131n0oc7w70gQ2Pc/s1600/EDIBLE+GINGERBREAD+PLAYHOUSE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbzhbIRYrsNQeG3tZuPXgHgIkGmI31cbwyfYetfiBsqOLeBbwt49gWCEMjgbmfPhFgd0cmxnZNReFXVFq6ShLml05-bZ3C2hI78oyvPHobqOUpnpX3nYpn0ACVgO1131n0oc7w70gQ2Pc/s400/EDIBLE+GINGERBREAD+PLAYHOUSE.jpg" width="315" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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Excuse the latin, but it had to be that dramatic for what you see above. Every year, we come across a holiday we all know as Christmas. During this eventful day or series of days, depending on how you celebrate, families and friends around the world engage in festivities full of food, drinks, laughters, and, best of all, the exchange of gifts with one another. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ideally, when buying presents for one another, it is usually about the thought that counts (or so you would think). I'm sure the majority of people like to get more bang for their buck and to buy things that feel really special and that touch the hearts of those they give such presents to. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Even the wealthy like to buy things that feel special and exciting, so it comes as no surprise that luxury retailers like Neiman Marcus felt the need to up the ante to allow adults to purchase grand gifts for children. One particular gift that made my eyes bulge in disbelief and had me salivate for a quick second was the ultimate edible gingerbread playhouse by Dylan's candy that is being offered through Neiman Marcus this holiday season. And yes, all $15,000 of it can be eaten to your child's desire. Money may not buy you love, but it can buy sweet, yummy things this Christmas. <span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Photo: Courtesy of <a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/">Neiman Marcus</a>)</span></div>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3747959407354423183.post-31550709751336406322010-10-17T12:18:00.002-04:002011-01-28T12:27:21.447-05:00Neumann Aroma<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_lljXnp6u1KvABAO9mAsNxLmeF6vBM4e1Uj0uV9rmsMdVyLQ0b3PHTny3y4-dZAD0aLnzB1-eGLE-Ssz1ILrqHRWdcVN4pN6kuPI_K6wDFSejrgAiMXAd8hCdGB2Ph4uWc3lV9w-pBTA/s1600/candles-high-res4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_lljXnp6u1KvABAO9mAsNxLmeF6vBM4e1Uj0uV9rmsMdVyLQ0b3PHTny3y4-dZAD0aLnzB1-eGLE-Ssz1ILrqHRWdcVN4pN6kuPI_K6wDFSejrgAiMXAd8hCdGB2Ph4uWc3lV9w-pBTA/s400/candles-high-res4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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The scent of candles is an endless craving of mine. Whether it is walking into a home, a bedroom, or a bathroom, a candle always helps to set the mood of the space you're in. Something about stimulating the olfactory with an aroma that feels fresh and light can really help to improve the aura of an environment. Just like parfums and eau de colognes that help to finish off an individual's personal scent, candles complete the mood of the environment of which they are placed. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I recently was introduced to a candle collection by the Baroness Monica Von Neumann. A jetsetter and former model for Dior and Yves Saint Laurent, the Baroness was inspired by her travels in Europe and Africa to create a line of scents in the form of candles to share with others. The Baroness, also, a humanitarian, travels the world, particularly in Africa aiding in the help of children with HIV. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My personal favorite is her <i>Savon</i> candle, a sparkly floral Aldehydic with notes of Jasmin, Jonquil, Rose and Lily of the Valley with a woody, musky, ambery background.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/news-articles/a-list-interview-baroness-monica-von-neumann-14673.php">Click here to read more on the Baroness</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Photo: Courtesy of Baroness Von Neumann) </span></div>A Style oF Culturehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00176271542348977386noreply@blogger.com