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Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Sunday, July 17, 2011
The ASFC Re-Porter on MR PORTER: Blazing
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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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
To jump start this 'blazing' mission of mine, I've selected a group of blazers from MR PORTER that will surely elevate and mature one's style.
ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Wool Blend Jacket $995
(Images and product information via MR PORTER)
Friday, June 17, 2011
ASFC Music Hype: Mike Taylor
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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.
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.
In the meantime, to jump start the high temp activities, outings and travels, I highly recommend a recently released mixtape From The Stars by artist Mike Taylor. 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!
Enjoy the two videos below, one for "Searchin for Summer" and his recently debuted video for "Perfect."
(Videos via You Tube Channel - I am Mike Taylor)
The ASFC Re-Porter on MR PORTER: All Black Everything
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About several weeks ago, a friend and I enjoyed dinner at the quaint Cafe Cluny, tucked away in New York City's West Village. Waiting for our reservation, we walked along Bleecker street, stopping into stores like Burberry, 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.
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.
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.
About several weeks ago, a friend and I enjoyed dinner at the quaint Cafe Cluny, tucked away in New York City's West Village. Waiting for our reservation, we walked along Bleecker street, stopping into stores like Burberry, 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.
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.
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.
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.
ALFRED DUNHILL Bladon Leather Holdall Travel Bag $2,050
YVES SAINT LAURENT Coated Canvas Tote Bag $395
BILL AMBERG Canvas and Leather Backpack $365
ALFRED DUNHILL Chassis Leather Holdall Bag $1, 070
Monday, June 13, 2011
The ASFC Re-Porter on MR PORTER: Patriotic Pride
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
So, in the great American spirit, I chose some pieces from MR PORTER 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)!
POLO RALPH LAUREN Custom Fit Pique Polo Shirt $75
(Images & product information via mrporter.com)
Monday, June 6, 2011
The ASFC Re-Porter on MR PORTER: Bienvenidos a Miami
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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!
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!
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.
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.
Therefore, I found it fitting to choose pieces from MR PORTER that will help to illustrate the must-haves for your tropical travels this season:
CASTANER Canvas Espadrilles $145
J.CREW Slim Leg 484 Selvedge Jeans $150
SUNSPEL Lightweight Cotton Vest $46
YVES SAINT LAURENT Leather Weekend Bag $2,295
ALFRED DUNHILL Roll-up Panama Hat $645
LINDA FARROW LUXE Transparent Green Sunglasses $500
(Images & product information via mrporter.com)
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Design Factor: Kips Bay Chic
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This morning the press gathered on the Upper East Side for the Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club 39th Annual Decorator Show House. Because I've missed prior years, I was finally able to go this year and LOVED it!
This morning the press gathered on the Upper East Side for the Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club 39th Annual Decorator Show House. Because I've missed prior years, I was finally able to go this year and LOVED it!
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.
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 Brad Ford 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, Adele 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:
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!
Want to visit? 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!
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Nary Manivong is Dressed to Impress
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 Dressed.
The documentary film, which premiered in select theaters on Friday, February 4th, follows fashion designer Nary Manivong 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.
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 Columbus, Ohio 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.
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 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.
The film is accompanied with commentary from elite fashion insiders, such as designer Nanette Lepore, Fern Mallis formerly with IMG, Simon Doonan Creative Director of Barneys New York, Mickey Boardman of Paper magazine, Simon Collins Dean of Parsons The New School for Design, and Lynn Yaeger formerly with the Village Voice, 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.
Enjoy this trailer for Dressed:
Keep an eye out for Nary Manivong and his collaboration with Ally Hilfiger for their debut Fall 2011 collection this season of NAHM (Nary Ally Hilfiger Manivong).
SyFy is Cool Again!
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It is a new year and a new approach for the SyFy channel. 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 TVweek.com, Jon Lafayette interviews TV Historian, Tim Brooks, who played a role in the network's humble beginnings while at USA network, with Brooks explaining:
It is a new year and a new approach for the SyFy channel. 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 TVweek.com, Jon Lafayette interviews TV Historian, Tim Brooks, who played a role in the network's humble beginnings while at USA network, with Brooks explaining:
"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."
Although it has been many years since the childhood days of watching shows like Tales from the Crypt and The Outer Limits as well as the broadcast syndication of Quantum Leap, the Syfy Channel has managed to spark a renewed interest in the network and its shows.
Two original shows that are helping to revive the network's credibility amongst its old and new audience are Face Off and Being Human. 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 Twilight saga and the CW television series, The Vampire Diaries playing on the fancy for the immortal and the undead.
Two original shows that are helping to revive the network's credibility amongst its old and new audience are Face Off and Being Human. 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 Twilight saga and the CW television series, The Vampire Diaries playing on the fancy for the immortal and the undead.
Face Off - 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 Alcone are at stake in this inside look of those who create the creatures and monsters we love to fear.
Being Human - A television series that revolves around three roommates, all who are not your "normal" crowd with Aidan (Sam Witwer) the vampire, Josh (Sam Huntington) the werewolf, and Sally (Meaghan Rath) 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.
(Images: Courtesy of SyFy.com)
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Give Me Drama, Give Me Valentino!
The couture reviews keep on coming and this time it's Valentino in the ASFC (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.
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.
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!
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