Mafioso Chic

I caught a glimpse of this gentleman from my office window today. He was parking his blacked-out G-Wag outside our office, and I had to rush down and ask him if I could get a shot. He was on his way to his hat tailor when I approached him, of course.

I respect a man who's dedicated to his look. It was flawless down to the socks.

Diggit,

-S

Mafioso Chic

I caught a glimpse of this gentleman from my office window today. He was parking his blacked-out G-Wag outside our office, and I had to rush down and ask him if I could get a shot. He was on his way to his hat tailor when I approached him, of course.

I respect a man who's dedicated to his look. It was flawless down to the socks.

Diggit,

-S

INFLUENCE: Patrick Nagel

There are a few people who really POP out of my mind as great childhood influences when I was growing up in the 1980's. People like Helmut Newton, Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Peter Gabriel, Madonna, and Boy George were pretty iconic for me. Particularly though, I was drawn to the images of Patrick Nagel.

Not only did Nagel's images embody the chic and sleek style of the 80's, but I think his work had a greater hand in creating what the 80's were becoming at the very time. What I'm trying to say is that Nagel was less an observer of the time and more so an influence to the time... Would the 80's be the same without his images? Would have Armani evolved YSL's "Le Smoking Tuxedo" to create the famous power-suit for women? ... Would have Donna Karan introduced her 'Essentials Line' for the 80's working woman if not for Nagel's images?

Nagel's vision of the iconic 80's woman was so influential that even today his images are popularly used. How many times have you seen a mom-n'-pop hair salon or nail shop use a window decal with a Nagel-esq picture? If you haven't noticed, I dare you to take a look... you'll be surprised at how many beauty shops use his images even today.

The man even influenced computer software applications like that of Adobe Photoshop. The simplifying tools on photoshop are like an undeclared homage to the working style of Nagel. You see, all of Nagel's illustrations were based in photography. "Nagel would start with a photograph and work down, always simplifying and removing elements which he felt were unnecessary. The resulting image would look flat, but emphasized those elements which he felt were most important." -Wikipedia.

One of the last influential artists of the 20th century, Patrick Nagel.

-S

SYI - Nagel's 1982 painting for the album cover of Duran Duran's hit album Rio would become one of his best known images.

INFLUENCE: Patrick Nagel

There are a few people who really POP out of my mind as great childhood influences when I was growing up in the 1980's. People like Helmut Newton, Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Peter Gabriel, Madonna, and Boy George were pretty iconic for me. Particularly though, I was drawn to the images of Patrick Nagel.

Not only did Nagel's images embody the chic and sleek style of the 80's, but I think his work had a greater hand in creating what the 80's were becoming at the very time. What I'm trying to say is that Nagel was less an observer of the time and more so an influence to the time... Would the 80's be the same without his images? Would have Armani evolved YSL's "Le Smoking Tuxedo" to create the famous power-suit for women? ... Would have Donna Karan introduced her 'Essentials Line' for the 80's working woman if not for Nagel's images?

Nagel's vision of the iconic 80's woman was so influential that even today his images are popularly used. How many times have you seen a mom-n'-pop hair salon or nail shop use a window decal with a Nagel-esq picture? If you haven't noticed, I dare you to take a look... you'll be surprised at how many beauty shops use his images even today.

The man even influenced computer software applications like that of Adobe Photoshop. The simplifying tools on photoshop are like an undeclared homage to the working style of Nagel. You see, all of Nagel's illustrations were based in photography. "Nagel would start with a photograph and work down, always simplifying and removing elements which he felt were unnecessary. The resulting image would look flat, but emphasized those elements which he felt were most important." -Wikipedia.

One of the last influential artists of the 20th century, Patrick Nagel.

-S

SYI - Nagel's 1982 painting for the album cover of Duran Duran's hit album Rio would become one of his best known images.

Men In Heels

Fashion Alert: MEN CAN WEAR HEELS NOW

...LOL, I'm not sure if that's really the case, but I wanna give this man the respect he deserves for pulling off this look. Yes it is a bit Grace Jones, but it's still authentic to me. It doesn't feel like he's cross-dressing, it feels like pure adrogenous chic... do you see the distinction?

Next time you're wondering if that certain article of clothing you're wearing is just 'too much', please think back to this daring young man. For crying out loud, if he can wear a jumper with heels, you can surely wear skinny jeans.

Everyday is another opportunity to whip up a killer ensemble, so get up and wear something provacative.

Style is a terrible thing to waste... you can quote me on that,

-S

Photo via The Sartorialist. Thank you for keeping my dress inspired.

Men In Heels

Fashion Alert: MEN CAN WEAR HEELS NOW

...LOL, I'm not sure if that's really the case, but I wanna give this man the respect he deserves for pulling off this look. Yes it is a bit Grace Jones, but it's still authentic to me. It doesn't feel like he's cross-dressing, it feels like pure adrogenous chic... do you see the distinction?

Next time you're wondering if that certain article of clothing you're wearing is just 'too much', please think back to this daring young man. For crying out loud, if he can wear a jumper with heels, you can surely wear skinny jeans.

Everyday is another opportunity to whip up a killer ensemble, so get up and wear something provacative.

Style is a terrible thing to waste... you can quote me on that,

-S

Photo via The Sartorialist. Thank you for keeping my dress inspired.

Alex & Chloe T-Shirt

No one despises the 'Humor-T' more than I do. Catch phrases like "trust me I'm a doctor" or "everyone loves a Jewish boy" haunt me in my sleep. The humor-T had its day, but it was never cool...NEVER!

At the same time and in true hypocritical form, I've always fantasized about creating an apparel line built around bold statements, old proverbs, and the powerful decrees of history...Statements that served to provoke something inside you...statements that could shift the consciousness of a whole society.

Today I was checking out what's new on the website of the famed jewelery line called Alex & Chloe (www.alexandchloe.com), when I saw the best example of what my vision looks like.

I'm loving the "Protest" T-shirt designed by artist Kenzo Minami. Wouldn't it be awesome if presidential candidates had campaign apparel like this?

The only downside of the T is that it costs about $154, and that's a little too pricey for me. I guess that's the cost of protesting these days... wow!

BTW, Alex & Chloe have a really vast collection of jewelry that you should check out too.

www.alexandchloe.com
-S

SYI: After getting the liscening figured out, I think a T-shirt line using song lyrics would be a striking collection. Personally, I would totally wear some Morrisey lyrics. Just the lyrics, no pics. I'm not into band T-shirts with tour dates either. The idea is that those who know the lyric will know, and those who don't, won't.

Alex & Chloe T-Shirt

No one despises the 'Humor-T' more than I do. Catch phrases like "trust me I'm a doctor" or "everyone loves a Jewish boy" haunt me in my sleep. The humor-T had its day, but it was never cool...NEVER!

At the same time and in true hypocritical form, I've always fantasized about creating an apparel line built around bold statements, old proverbs, and the powerful decrees of history...Statements that served to provoke something inside you...statements that could shift the consciousness of a whole society.

Today I was checking out what's new on the website of the famed jewelery line called Alex & Chloe (www.alexandchloe.com), when I saw the best example of what my vision looks like.

I'm loving the "Protest" T-shirt designed by artist Kenzo Minami. Wouldn't it be awesome if presidential candidates had campaign apparel like this?

The only downside of the T is that it costs about $154, and that's a little too pricey for me. I guess that's the cost of protesting these days... wow!

BTW, Alex & Chloe have a really vast collection of jewelry that you should check out too.

www.alexandchloe.com
-S

SYI: After getting the liscening figured out, I think a T-shirt line using song lyrics would be a striking collection. Personally, I would totally wear some Morrisey lyrics. Just the lyrics, no pics. I'm not into band T-shirts with tour dates either. The idea is that those who know the lyric will know, and those who don't, won't.

Vertical Blinds

I was laying in bed and looking at my vertical blinds when I began thinking...

Every apartment seems to come ready with a set of PVC vertical blind window treatments. They were pretty hot in the 80's, but have slowly gone downhill in popularity ever since. Somehow these vertical blinds have become so taboo in the design world, that every design makeover show makes a big point at removing them as soon as the makover begins.

Today I'd like to offer a rethinking of the vertical blind.

The PVC vertical blind:
- Fuctionally perfect. You can filter or cut light out as gradually or drastically as you please.
- Creates a level of privacy while still allowing light to directly come thru.
- PVC is super easy to clean.
- Simple yet stylish design. I've never been a fan of over-dressing a window in Renaissance fair chic.

I can go on and on with this, but I think I've made myself clear. Let's bring the PVC vertical blind back! I think it's time.


-S

Vertical Blinds

I was laying in bed and looking at my vertical blinds when I began thinking...

Every apartment seems to come ready with a set of PVC vertical blind window treatments. They were pretty hot in the 80's, but have slowly gone downhill in popularity ever since. Somehow these vertical blinds have become so taboo in the design world, that every design makeover show makes a big point at removing them as soon as the makover begins.

Today I'd like to offer a rethinking of the vertical blind.

The PVC vertical blind:
- Fuctionally perfect. You can filter or cut light out as gradually or drastically as you please.
- Creates a level of privacy while still allowing light to directly come thru.
- PVC is super easy to clean.
- Simple yet stylish design. I've never been a fan of over-dressing a window in Renaissance fair chic.

I can go on and on with this, but I think I've made myself clear. Let's bring the PVC vertical blind back! I think it's time.


-S

10th Dimension

For all you quantum physics lovers!

-S

10th Dimension

For all you quantum physics lovers!

-S

GIVENCHY HOMME 2009

If the GIVENCHY HOMME debut for Spring/Summer 2009 doesn't inspire you, nothing will!

When I saw the pics from the Paris show, It immediatley got me singing "Girls & Boys" by Blur...

"Girls who are boys
Who like boys to be girls
Who do boys like they're girls
Who do girls like they're boys
Always should be someone you really love"

But seriously, The Givenchy Homme show was a standout for many fashionistas (both men and women).

This collection was a first for Riccardo Tisci who has been heading Givenchy's women line for sometime now.

Riccardo Tisci is an unassuming anti-hero who makes heroic, powerful looks that still retain an all-encompassing aura of elegance - a concept absolutely central to the house of Givenchy. Let’s not forget, after all the stop-starts with other previous designers, he is making the label pop. Now, in a hugely significant step, he’s brought his talent to Givenchy menswear, meaning he’s one of the few designers responsible for both women’s AND men’s rtw at an iconic brand, as well as haute couture. - PONYSTEP.COM

“I am not looking to dress men as women,” Tisci continues, “but rather offer them a viable wardrobe that serves them equally well in any situation: classic suits that seem to have come straight from the atelier of a traditional Neapolitan tailor, as well as T-shirts and leather trousers for the weekend.” A wardrobe for men “whose beauty has a hint of menace”. - GIVENCHY.COM

Givenchy comin' back with powa-powa,

-S

GIVENCHY HOMME 2009

If the GIVENCHY HOMME debut for Spring/Summer 2009 doesn't inspire you, nothing will!

When I saw the pics from the Paris show, It immediatley got me singing "Girls & Boys" by Blur...

"Girls who are boys
Who like boys to be girls
Who do boys like they're girls
Who do girls like they're boys
Always should be someone you really love"

But seriously, The Givenchy Homme show was a standout for many fashionistas (both men and women).

This collection was a first for Riccardo Tisci who has been heading Givenchy's women line for sometime now.

Riccardo Tisci is an unassuming anti-hero who makes heroic, powerful looks that still retain an all-encompassing aura of elegance - a concept absolutely central to the house of Givenchy. Let’s not forget, after all the stop-starts with other previous designers, he is making the label pop. Now, in a hugely significant step, he’s brought his talent to Givenchy menswear, meaning he’s one of the few designers responsible for both women’s AND men’s rtw at an iconic brand, as well as haute couture. - PONYSTEP.COM

“I am not looking to dress men as women,” Tisci continues, “but rather offer them a viable wardrobe that serves them equally well in any situation: classic suits that seem to have come straight from the atelier of a traditional Neapolitan tailor, as well as T-shirts and leather trousers for the weekend.” A wardrobe for men “whose beauty has a hint of menace”. - GIVENCHY.COM

Givenchy comin' back with powa-powa,

-S

R. Buckminster Fuller

Article from my favorite new magazine, DOSSIER JOURNAL - dossierjournal.com

Long before Al Gore's "An Inconvenient Truth", there was R. Buckminster Fuller.


One of the great American visionaries of the twentieth century, R. Buckminster Fuller (1895-1983) endeavored to see what he, a single individual, might do to benefit the largest segment of humanity while consuming the minimum of the earth’s resources. Doing “more with less” was Fuller’s credo. He described himself as a “comprehensive anticipatory design scientist,” setting forth to solve the escalating challenges that faced humanity before they became insurmountable.

The Whitney is offering a thorough retrospective of his work with the show Buckminster Fuller: Starting with the Universe. If you're gonna be in NYC sometime before October, I suggest trying to see the show and then imagining the possibilities some combination of the ideas presented might create for your own modern dwelling and living.

R. Buckminster Fuller

Article from my favorite new magazine, DOSSIER JOURNAL - dossierjournal.com

Long before Al Gore's "An Inconvenient Truth", there was R. Buckminster Fuller.


One of the great American visionaries of the twentieth century, R. Buckminster Fuller (1895-1983) endeavored to see what he, a single individual, might do to benefit the largest segment of humanity while consuming the minimum of the earth’s resources. Doing “more with less” was Fuller’s credo. He described himself as a “comprehensive anticipatory design scientist,” setting forth to solve the escalating challenges that faced humanity before they became insurmountable.

The Whitney is offering a thorough retrospective of his work with the show Buckminster Fuller: Starting with the Universe. If you're gonna be in NYC sometime before October, I suggest trying to see the show and then imagining the possibilities some combination of the ideas presented might create for your own modern dwelling and living.

PHYLLIS STEIN ART

Please check out my friends lovely/NEW/downtown/ art gallery - Phyllis Stein

ABOUT PHYLLIS STEIN ART:

Phyllis Stein Art is a fine art gallery focusing on emerging artists. It is a mission of PSA to provide resources and educational programs through which artists may hone their practice in hopes of creating a dialogue and community that supports a spectrum of artistic expression. The gallery functions as a venue for radical performance work as well as the more sedate facets of art. PSA is currently developing an internship program through which art-hungry youths may get their proverbial feet wet in a gay-old gallery environment.


Opening Reception: July 10, 7-11pm

LOS ANGELES, June 19, 2008 -- Phyllis Stein Art is pleased to announce the opening of its inaugural gallery exhibition in conjunction with the Downtown Arts Walk on July 10, 2008.

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION:

Eric Smail: Press 1 for English
Exploring the geometry of semiotics in a technological age, Eric Smail’s boldly-colored complex paper sculptures and 2D patterned installations create a provocative and futuristic architecture.

Jesse Chapo: Stateside
Jesse Chapo’s new works, paintings and sculptures of bright and fantastical creatures, touch upon themes of American ideas, values and customs. Reminiscent of Heinz Edelmann or Milton Glaser, but with a confidence and style completely his own, Chapo’s work is both playful and compelling.

www.phyllissteinart.com

207 W 5th Street in the Spring Arts Tower,
PSA is open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am-6pm and by appointment.
213-622-6012.

...tell'em Sean sentchya'!

-S

PHYLLIS STEIN ART

Please check out my friends lovely/NEW/downtown/ art gallery - Phyllis Stein

ABOUT PHYLLIS STEIN ART:

Phyllis Stein Art is a fine art gallery focusing on emerging artists. It is a mission of PSA to provide resources and educational programs through which artists may hone their practice in hopes of creating a dialogue and community that supports a spectrum of artistic expression. The gallery functions as a venue for radical performance work as well as the more sedate facets of art. PSA is currently developing an internship program through which art-hungry youths may get their proverbial feet wet in a gay-old gallery environment.


Opening Reception: July 10, 7-11pm

LOS ANGELES, June 19, 2008 -- Phyllis Stein Art is pleased to announce the opening of its inaugural gallery exhibition in conjunction with the Downtown Arts Walk on July 10, 2008.

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION:

Eric Smail: Press 1 for English
Exploring the geometry of semiotics in a technological age, Eric Smail’s boldly-colored complex paper sculptures and 2D patterned installations create a provocative and futuristic architecture.

Jesse Chapo: Stateside
Jesse Chapo’s new works, paintings and sculptures of bright and fantastical creatures, touch upon themes of American ideas, values and customs. Reminiscent of Heinz Edelmann or Milton Glaser, but with a confidence and style completely his own, Chapo’s work is both playful and compelling.

www.phyllissteinart.com

207 W 5th Street in the Spring Arts Tower,
PSA is open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am-6pm and by appointment.
213-622-6012.

...tell'em Sean sentchya'!

-S

New Superpowers Flags

Just saw this @ www.publicworks.org.uk

"A set of flags that express more accurately the natures of the world's existent, up-and-coming, and new superpowers:
Russia's stranglehold on oil and gas lines; Britain's CCTV obsession; Canada's huge, currently untapped oil reserves; China's peerless manufacturing ability; Brazil's potential as the first non-nuclear superpower; Japan's ever-expanding workforce; America's insidious consumerist introductions; and India's massive industrial development."

-S

SYI: I try to avoid politics on this blog, but I thought that the design aspect of this project trumped political lines.

New Superpowers Flags

Just saw this @ www.publicworks.org.uk

"A set of flags that express more accurately the natures of the world's existent, up-and-coming, and new superpowers:
Russia's stranglehold on oil and gas lines; Britain's CCTV obsession; Canada's huge, currently untapped oil reserves; China's peerless manufacturing ability; Brazil's potential as the first non-nuclear superpower; Japan's ever-expanding workforce; America's insidious consumerist introductions; and India's massive industrial development."

-S

SYI: I try to avoid politics on this blog, but I thought that the design aspect of this project trumped political lines.