Halloween 2009: As seen on the Runway.

Raf Simons is "The Corporate Vampire"


Kris Van Assche is "The Veiled Monk"


Alexander McQueen is "The Meat Cleaver"


Comme Des Garcons is "The Circus Clown"

Hey! Can I get a lift?

9:37pm. On the corner of Little West 12th and 9th Avenue in the heart of Manhattan's Meatpacking District. The hustle and bustle of New York's night owls make their way to restaurants, bars and loft parties. The sound of taxicab engines and honking cars are fused with the chatter of "he-said, she-said", the recent layoff count at each bank and an endless list of sample sales. Every street corner of every block in Manhattan sure has its own story. At this particular corner, stands a small Asian man. No different from any Asian man, he bobbles back and forth, hands behind his back, as he awaits his friend's arrival, presumably for a casual dinner. He has round prescription glasses, a navy blue linen shirt, suspenders, somewhat-faded caramel khaki's and Clark's suede loafers. I had been watching him for a while , trying to figure out what I had enjoyed about his sartorial presentation. As fashionably-precise as an Editor for GQ, I began to breakdown why I believed his choices made for his outfit represented him well.

Loose-fitted for a rather frail frame, color choice for seasonal appropriateness, both shirt and pants not neatly pressed... allowing for a relaxed, casual appearance and accessorized to maximize personal finishing touches. His pants were rolled above his ankle, which seems to be a trend that has been around for a few years. I couldn't help but notice his shoes. His technique of rolling his pants to show a sockless foot in worn, suede kicks was a star choice in allowing passersby to notice his footwear. I'm sure he had something else in mind, however, he made a point to break his outfit from his shoes.

Whatever the case might be with this gentleman, an ongoing trend that has spread throughout the world of exposing the ankle with roll-ups and avoiding a sock provokes a frenzy of conclusions, all of which could possibly apply. He went sockless to avoid looking like a geek. He wanted to omit socks to display his favorite choice in footwear. Perhaps that it's just trendy and he wants to fit in. This look can also be our generation's interpretation of "recessionista", carefully choosing hobo-chic edged clothing to promote a seemingly penniless existence while remaining in the lines of stylistic excellence.

I always worried about shortening the length of my pants to avoid my sock from showing. Often times, I prefer a longer pant leg so the natural drag would offer a worn look created by me, not achieved by purchasing pre-damaged denim, say, at Abercrombie. Rolling my pant leg up or purchasing permanently-cuffed pants both rubbed me the wrong way. I would sometimes think that the whole point to cuff a pant was that the pant was too long and cuffing or rolling was a way to preserve the cut of the pant's integrity without altering the length of the pant permanently. I have been enlightened. While cuffs are not my personal look, I can certainly enjoy an individual who rolls his/her pant to redefine style with an alternative option. When we are heavy in work and wish to roll our sleeves, we do so. Perhaps, in efforts to avoid ruining them. Sometimes, our cufflinks sit uncomfortably under our wrists, as we type away furiously. Report after report. Email after email. So, we roll them up. Could we claim that we roll our pant legs in the same fashion to create an image of purposeful function? More blatantly letting others know, "We are busy people and we had to roll them up to engage in something (somewhat labor intensive)".

As we shift into fall, we can still relive those hot summer nights by rolling our pant leg up. If not for fashion, then for function.

Casual dinner with Alek Wek

After meeting up with a friend for a fundraiser cocktail party, I had plans to head home and have a phone date with another friend from back home. He informed me that we would be meeting up with his friend and Alek Wek. I have been a big fan of Alek Wek for years now, so naturally, you could only imagine that I was shaking inside to meet her. And, indeed I did.

We left the fundraiser and headed to Momofuku, a Japanese fusion restaurant with hands down the most delicious Asian tapas on the island. We sat, all four of us, in the middle of the restaurant and began discussing the success of the fundraiser. My eyes would slowly shift over at Alek to witness her facial expressions, her mannerisms, tone of speech and... her dress. Later in conversation, we had shifted topics to Brooklyn. The gentrification of Brooklyn, convenience and reasonably-priced real estate. "My mother is always worried about me living in Brooklyn", Wek began to explain. "I live in a very cute, safe neighborhood. I couldn't ask for more".

Her casual attitude and picture-perfect posture (not to mention complexion) was very impressive. She had a very comfortable sense of who she is and what she is doing. I started secretly thinking to myself how many women are jealous of her. She was dressed appropriately. Donning a lightweight patterned dress and sandal flats. Amazingly enough, I couldn't remember her accessories. Was she wearing any? This was epic. I have never in my life met anyone who never had to wear accessories and still be very put together. I suppose any starlet, for that matter, is in the same position as her.

Being one of the most recognized faces in fashion, Wek certainly had a presence. One of her most beautiful attributes is her sense of humor. She had us laughing so hard, I almost forgot we were in public. Makes me wonder how many people could get away with wearing plain clothing with a witty sense of humor as their statement piece.

Summer's Here. Relax!

Yeah, not so much. I mean, we have been flustered for the passed 6 months in unwavering anticipation for a heatwave to collide against our pale skin, however, the bitter cold still prevails. Unbelievable. We have had the option of warmer dress, which is definitely one of the few positives that have come our way. But, how to ease into that summer style, one might ask. After one quick look in my closet, I realized I had lost a few pounds and was on the ultimate mission to revamp a "in-need-of-desperate-attention" wardrobe. Stretched-out Acne T-shirts, ripped jeans (also stretched and loose), stained suede Tod's loafers and more ugly vests than I know what to do with. I suppose sometimes you have to look within yourself for the answer. I chose to look within my wardrobe to consummately achieve a budget-friendly new line of threads without spending a dime. This would allow for me to reallocate my budget for more important things (rent, groceries, you know.. details). Much to my surprise, I was able to do just that. Re-use old pieces from fall, a few key items from winter and some old "Job interview-friendly" random tid bits from here and there to solidify a very random selection of a look I wasn't aware would go well.

Pictured above is an exemplary ensemble to portray my ideal summer outfit. Just comfortable. More limp and rather earthy. Shorts are a must. I dared to expose full arms in a few looks paired with vintage vests, stolen from 3-piece ensembles from my father's 1980's suit collection. I came to realize that it was THIS easy! The key was to play with relatively non-perennial items to surprise onlookers with a dash of originality. Nothing eccentric, of course. I would rather stay clear from wool, heavy gloves and cashmere scarves. Rather, I preferred working with less obvious pieces: Fall vests, winter dress shoes, heavier jackets with lighters under-layers. An element of surprise to an unsuspecting critic. The trick was simply to follow all rules and go with a comfortable choice. The Light Choice, if you will.

I have just pondered the brilliant idea of wearing something of a putrid nature paired with a fantastic set of jewelry, gym shirt paired with a nice belt and dress pants or perhaps a sexy fragrance with a pair of PRO-Keds sneakers and shorts. It works and it works well. The chance to wear something you would otherwise never choose to wear is now. Fix that chip on your shoulder about what others think and take the plunge. In confidence, one can wear just about anything. I met a french girl the other day wearing an Erdem dress and New Balance sneakers. I mean... Can we think of the possibilities once we have conquered chic with bleak?

What will your summer choices be? Shall you stick with one look or rotate between a few? Or, I suppose if daring enough, would you be willing to cross seasons to state a comfortable, unique point... all for the sake of fashion?

The Fashion-stache.

Ahh, the mustache. So seventies. So dad. So... chic? Eh, maybe not to the level of cutting-edge. However, pioneering trend-heads and the anti-mainstream flock to looks that defy sleek. Yet, in the days of 'Anything goes', we can rightfully assume that most of our fashion/stylistic instincts take precedence over the 'Top-Ten looks according to Mr. Hot Shot Editor'. It's about laying down your own laws. Perhaps a look created by a neighbor who is teetering between the starving artist/latest-fashion-muse cliché. In all fairness, it's still a relatively new trend; A reborn classic look of the porn-stars in an era of drugs, disco and denim daisy dukes.

Of course, much debate is brought about by these sorts of controversial looks. No one can distinguish the difference between trendy or classic. The lines are blurred. Are we right when we say it's over? Or can we categorize the mustache as a look that has returned and was due for a strong comeback? We joke and play dress-up with fancy wigs, elaborate costumes and paint or glue a 'stache for nostalgic mockery. Even so, do we secretly wish society would accept us with a little something that allows us to play dress-up on a daily basis? As we ponder our own sartorial options, we have to remind ourselves that part of our style involves not just dressing the part, but having fun with what is given to us. Compliments of Mother Nature. Some women with a fantastic set of breasts shouldn't keep them to herself. The whole 'If you got it, flaunt it' saying plays a big role here, as we explore diversions from normalcy to stand out. Thus, when a thick beard is what you have, you are given the option to do with it as you please.

Note: there are ways to tastefully achieve a great mustache. Be smart, be fun, be different. And, as the great Rachel Zoe says, "Own it".

Jurassic Park Spitter, Queen Elizabeth or Latest Shoe Trend?

Valentino Couture. Price unavailable.

CHristian Louboutin Dillian Pump. $2,875.00


Prada. Price unavailable.

Queen Elizabeth.

Jurassic Park Spitter.

Reborn as...

Prada OTK Boot. $1,400.

Weapons of Mass Destruction

As the story always goes, the argument veers to one direction: Women ultimately dress to impress women, NOT men. Of course, this is debatable on so many different levels. We can always assume that one woman couldn't give a damn what other women are wearing and will leave their apartment wearing lingerie with hooker heels if she pleases. This isn't always the case, however. Some women will find an outfit, any outfit that will put to shame any woman who crosses her path. A tool she sharpens to spear her fashion-frenzied opponents. By analyzing current trends, being aware of product availability and witnessing the fluctuating fashion focus of Hollywood celebrities, women gather this data, create mental charts to bid on the best options, carefully budget (or charge their Amex) and make their final decision as they invest in one of the most seemingly-innocent yet painfully-destructive accessories to date: Their handbag.

Yes. a simple concept, really. Handbags are worn by almost everyone, carting about everyday necessities: agendas, make up, stationery, wallets, hygiene products, you name it. From a simple bag to an extravagant carry case, women compete daily with one another to carry the best of the best. At least in New York. At an upscale salon in New York, women come dressed to the 9's, wearing the latest and the most expensive ensembles, topped off with a gorgeous hand held. Jealous eyes scan the floor, as women carrying the lesser-than version think to themselves, "I should have gone with my Birkin bag, not my Louis Vuitton!"

Marshal Cohen, chief analyst for the Port Washington, NY, research firm NPD Group claims that, "It's the difference between buying a Rolls Royce at $300,000 and buying a Rolls Royce at $150,000," he says. "There's really little difference at some point; it's the status that comes along with it and the desire to separate yourself." Clearly, we can associate the crocodile Birkin bag as the equivalent to the Business class seats aboard United, while the Gucci hobo bag you thought was still an expensive purchase is the equivalent to seat 27D. It's a small plane but you're still the very last seat on the ride.

All across the island of Manhattan, women strive to carry the very best available handbag in their financial reach. For others, a splurge that goes beyond their budget is their only means of survival. For some men, a beautiful girl by his side means he is either financially successful or has the skills to attain attractive women. For other men, a great watch or sleek car shows that he has what it takes. The ultimate badge for most women most likely lies in the vicinity of an expensive accessory. Whether its a timepiece, jewelry, or handbag, these women know that they are raising their flag to warn others that they are "not to be messed with".

So, if you are fashionably "in-it-to-win-it" and think you are carrying a top-of-the-line tote, note that woman in the front of the line at Starbucks is carrying something bigger and better. Let the games begin!

Towering Noir: Wrap it with Black

Georgina Goodman: Crystal Cuved Strap Satin Sandal (£695)


Marsell: Open and Slit Low Boots (£575)


Allessandro Dell'Acqua: Textured Patent Covered Ankle Sandal (£459)


Diana Broussard: Multi Strap Back Zip Sandal $600.00


Yves Saint Laurent: Cage Ankle Boots ($1,290.00)


Berny Demore: Platform Laser Cut Upfront Sandals $930.00

Alexandra Neel: Cleopatra $720.00



Camilla Skovgaard: Zaha Open Toe Booties $580.00


Jil Sander: Asymmetric satin sandals $880.00


Gucci: Iman Triple Ankle Strap Sandal $1,275.00


Stuart Weitzman: Stretchup $325.00


Alexander Wang: Alexis Fringe Boot (£420)

Japan Fashion Week in Tokyo (in New York) 2009!

Japan Fashion Week is here! Quite possibly the highlight of the fashion week season, a good number of Japanese designers presented their Spring '09 collection at the Altman Building in Manhattan. I was lucky enough to score a good seat in the house and get some great pictures to show you just how talented these designers are. Here's a look into each designer...




























































































































About Japan Fashion Week:

このJFW in TOKYOは、第1に、東京コレクションを抜本的に強化し、世界への発信力を高め、ビジネスにつなげるとともに、世界の新進デザイナーの登竜門にしていくこと。第2に、これを一つの起点としてデザイナー「創」、製造事業者「匠」、アパレル・小売「商」の連携を緊密化すること。第3に、街と連携し東京の魅力を高めることの3点を目標とし、官民一体となって2005年10月末から11月上旬にかけて第1回を開催いたしました。
昨年9月開催の第7回では、前回に引き続き、「東京ミッドタウン」を中心とする六本木地区を主会場として開催しました。各ブランドが新作を披露する東京コレクション・ウィーク、合同展示会といったＢtoＢのイベント、そして新人デザイナーファッション大賞最終審査会に加え、一般消費者の方々にもファッションに関心を持っていただけるよう、コンテストやファッションショーなどの多彩なスペシャルイベントを開催しました。また、会場である東京ミッドタウンに多大なご配慮をいただき、場内各所にあるビジョンでコレクション・ショーの映像の放映や街頭バナーの掲出など、会期中はミッドタウン全体がＪＦＷの色に染まりました。来場者についても、海外メディアの人数が前回比で約5％増加するなど、ＪＦＷに対する世界からの注目度も着実にアップしています。(www.jfw.jp)

About Japan Fashion Week:

Firstly, the purpose of JFW in TOKYO is to strengthen the fundamentals of Tokyo Collection, establish a stronger voice, develop business opportunities, and become the gateway to success for up-and-coming designers. Secondly, JFW in TOKYO will strengthen ties between the “creativity” of designers, “craftsmanship” of manufacturers, and “trading” of the apparel and retail industry. Third, JFW in TOKYO works to heighten the appeal of the city of Tokyo. The private sector worked hand-in-hand with the government to organize the 1st JFW in 2005, from the end of October to the beginning of November.
The 7th JFW was held in September, 2008 in the Roppongi area, with Tokyo Midtown at its center. In addition to Tokyo Collection Week, where fashion brands presented new lines, B to B events such as joint exhibitions, and the 2008 NEW DESIGNER FASHION GRAND PRIX Final Selection, a multitude of special events such as contests and fashion shows by apparel brands and leather goods lines were held for the general public to cultivate interest in fashion. With the generous cooperation of Tokyo Midtown, the whole of Tokyo Midtown was dressed in JFW colors – video footage of collection shows were broadcast on high vision displays throughout the venue and event banners were hung throughout the town. There was a 5% increase in attendees from foreign press, signaling a definite rise in interest and attention from all over the world. (www.jfw.jp)