Things I Have: Watch by Timex

I was leaving for holidays in France and needed a new watch. Well it's not so much that I needed a new one as my other three needed batteries. And I was really in the mood for something simple and cheap and classic.

So I ventured to Target and picked up this Timex for under $30. I know, right? It's a great find -- easy to pair with my outfit, large numerals making it easy to read the time, shows me the date and the face even lights up!

Now, I definitely want to get my other watches fixed... options, options you know. But after seeing J. Crew's recent inclusion of Timex pieces in their men's shops, I was inspired and am very satisfied with my purchase.

If you want to get one of your own, you can find it at Target: Timex Watch

Things I Want: APC x Supreme Jeans

I have found that my best fitting pants are from APC. There's something about the cut in the thigh and the shape of the rear that suit me. But those are mostly twill or cotton pants... I don't actually have any denim from APC.

I'm also a huge fan of Supreme and all of the fantastic collaborations they do. So what a better intro for me into APC denim than through this collab they're doing with Supreme. Love the stitching on the back...

Some of my favorite jeans are from WESC and a combination between APC x Supreme seems like it may have a similar style + fit. I am down to give it a try!

Read more about this at Men's Style (before they go away...): http://men.style.com/news/blog/2009/09/what-makes-a-pair-of-apc-jeans-different-from-a-pair-of-apc-x-supreme-jeans.html

Things I Want: Margiela Book

A book about Martin Margiela! I'm so there... add this to my Fall reading list.

While he may be a man of mystery, I think the Margiela brand is fantastic in it's avant garde approach. I don't think any of the celebrated Belgians are particularly press-focused, Margiela is definitely the least so. Maybe this book will shed some light?

No surprise that I found this gem posted on Hypebeast... check it out here: http://hypebeast.com/2009/09/maison-martin-margiela-book/

Things I Want: Metal Flecked Coat from Patrik Ervell

I've long been a fan of Patrik Ervell. Great fit for my slim frame, classic looks but with a fun modern twist. Take, par example, this coat from his Spring/Summer 2010 collection.

Unfortunately I wasn't at the show to witness it in person, but apparently Patrik used a new technique in this collection of infusing the pieces with flecks of metal. Sounds complicated... but I love the result.

I want this coat!

But this is just one of a number of nice items Patrik showed for Spring... check out the rest via Men's Style: http://men.style.com/fashion/collections/S2010MEN/complete/thumb/PERVMEN

Things I Love: Richard Burbridge Photoshoot for Dazed and Confused

One of my favorite men's fashion blogs is The Fashionisto. Great coverage of men's lines with a ton of wonderful photos.

From them today is a really amazing post with a photo shoot done for Dazed & Confused magazine. I deliberated on which photo was my favorite and settled o nthis one. Great face makeup, love the ribbons wrapped around Lyle's body. So cool! And while I'm not a huge fan of the bowler in general, it works here with the black by offsetting all of the wild colors (and the bruising facial paint job).

You can check out more photos (and great posts from The Fashionisto) here: http://thefashionisto.com/blog/2009/09/editorial-lyle-lodwick-by-richard-burbridge/#more-32623

Things I Want: Michael Bastian S/S 2010

As Fashion Week wraps up, I have been looking at photos over the past week of both the men's + women's shows. There have been some great pieces and I will be writing about more them in the next few days... but first I had to, had to post about Michael Bastian's show for S/S 2010.

Can I just say that I think it is AMAZING! Michael really pulled it out with such a fantastic mix of casual shirts, shorts and hoodies (his staples) with some great suiting, and a few really nice coats. I am loving the whole collection (well maybe except for the camo shorts... that's just something I can't get behind).

Here is a photo of my very favorite shirt from the collection. It's funny because knowing that Michael will be desiging for Gant, I can see where this shirt could be a great bridge from his own line to Gant's.

Anyway, enough ranting from me. Just go to We Are the Market and check out the rest of their photos.... and then come back here and see what else I loved from the recent shows.

http://www.wearethemarket.com/2009/09/ny-fashion-week-michael-bastian-ss2010.php

Things I Have: Wallet by Porter

With all of the fashion, design, art blogs I read there are a lot of mentions about Porter bags.  All of the collaborations they do, how functional yet cool they are, that they're from a company with a long history.  And that they are from Japan.  This is the kicker... because I have had a lot of problems finding them in the U.S.  Of course Opening Ceremony (which I LOVE) carries a few of the pieces, and I even saw Barney's pick up a few.  But not in a wide selection.

So when I was recently in Tokyo I went lookin' for some cool Porter bags.  And I found a ton.  They were great --- materials, colors, shapes + sizes.  I dragged my poor colleague all over Tokyo, but still couldn't decide on which one to get.  

Thus I did some research on where to find Porter in Hong Kong (my next stop) and dragged another colleague to the Sogo in Causeway Bay.  There I found this really great wallet.  It's compact, it's a bright blue, I love the white zipper. Done.  

Whew, that was a long story to talk about a new wallet... but I am definitely a huge fan of Porter.  Now they just need more distribution in the U.S.

Things I Have: Sweater vest from Uniqlo

I have been singing the praises of Uniqlo for a long long time.  Ever since I started traveling to Asia... and even though they now have a store in NYC, I am more frequently in China, Hong Kong, or Japan and so stock up there.

I love the fit (nice & slim), I love the bevy of colors on offer (a lot of bright and eye catching shades!), and I love the price.  Picking up a crewneck merino wool sweater in four colors is an easy pick for Fall.

And while I did do that, I also bought this great button down cardigan with a fun argyle print.  Can't wait to layer this over my white J. Crew oxford...  as soon as the temp drops a bit.

And since the J+ line (designed by Jil Sander!) is dropping next month, I may have to venture out to Manhattan to check it out.  

In the meantime, peruse the Uniqlo Fall range here: http://www.uniqlo.com/us/explorer.html#/code:057899-000-08/

Things I Want: Band of Outsiders x Sperry Topsider

Scott does it again with some rockin' shoes for his collab with Sperry.  These are so great... and yes, I post a lot about BoO and about shoes, so what a perfect combination!

I love the rubber, I love the faux wood treatment, the faux eyeholes.  Some cool kicks.

You can read more about this at Hypebeast... enjoy!  

http://hypebeast.com/2009/08/band-of-outsiders-x-sperry-rubber-boat-shoe-collection/

Things I Want: Anchor Sweater from Billy Reid

I am on a business trip to Asia and haven't been able to post. Started in Shanghai, then to Tokyo, now Seoul... and tomorrow Hong Kong. Whew.

But I have been trying to catch up on my fashion reading and came across this ANCHOR sweater, posted by the rockin' site We Are the Market.

Of course I am totally in love with anchors right now and this sweater would be perfect for fall/winter. It is from Billy Reid, who I am not too familiar with.

You can see more of the collection here: http://www.wearethemarket.com/2009/08/a-dose-of-capsule-vegas-talking-with-billy-reid.php

Things I Want: Jil Sander for Uniqlo

I am such a fan of Uniqlo (and so happy to be back in Asia, so I can stock up!)... I love how they have a basic sweater or shirt or pair of pants, and they carry it in a dozen colors. And the price is right. And it fits me so well!

So now I cannot wait for the designs by Jil Sander for Uniqlo. Below is the dress shirt, but I've been seeing a few other images crop up and I cannot wait for the launch on October 1.

You can read more here: http://www.selectism.com/news/2009/07/08/j-jil-sander-for-uniqlo/#more-19021

Things I Want: Cyclops Watch

Saw this watch and it immediately spoke to my fascination with pop color.  I love the bright circles representing each hour and the simple mesh band.  It also reminds me of something from Pantone (which is getting a biiiit overdone these days).

If I hadn't just bought a new watch (see previous post about my rockin' Nixon "sun dial") I would consider picking this up.

If you like it (which you should), read more at Acquire mag: http://www.acquiremag.com/style/watches/mr-jones-watches-cyclops.php.  Enjoy!

Things I Want: Visvim Yellow Backpack

I have blogged about some Visvim items before... the very cool Japanese label that recently opened a showroom in Paris. They have some pretty amazing shoes but I have to say I was also sold on this backpack. And hey, it's time for back to school, so you need a new pack.

Made of ballistic nylon and available in a variety of colors, although y'all know there's only one color that caught my eye. Yellow.

You can check out the story and see more photos at the rockin' site Hypebeast: http://hypebeast.com/2009/08/visvim-ballistic-backpack/

Things I Want: Fall Buying Guide from Men.Style

One of my favorite spots for fashion news is men.style.com -- which unfortunately is going away, as Conde Naste separates it into distinct GQ and Details sites.

But they've just released a Fall buying guide, compiled from the buyers of some hot men's departments around the country. I have three fav's that I would love to have for my Fall wardrobe!

First, I am a huge fan of Opening Ceremony. They just plain rock! And (at least in the L.A. store) the sales staff are amazing... great knowledge of fashion and designers, and they are so helpful. You may remember my recent story about scoring a Patrik Ervell tux!

So here is a quilted dress shirt they've done as part of their private label collection. I love the quilting and the color -- perfect for Fall.

Next is a piece that no one who knows me will be surprised by. Gamme Bleu for Moncler... aka, designed by Thom Browne. Obsessed! I love this blazer because it evokes themes that are quintessential to each both Moncler and TB but remaining trim enough for a cool Fall day.

And the last item is a great pair of dress shoes from Common Projects. I have long been a fan of their sneakers, and I think the wingtips are just fantastic. I am so in need of a pair of brown shoes for work... these would be just great. I could also totally see wearing them for the end of summer, sockless, with my pants a bit rolled up.

You can check out the full guide here: http://men.style.com/theupgrader/style/features/buyers-guide-fall-2009

Enjoy!

Things I Have: Yellow Nixon Watch

It is not news that I am all about yellow right now. And I also have a thing for rubber watches (already have two -- one from Diesel, one from Alessi).
But then I was just in Paris, at colette, and saw this one by Nixon... in yellow! I had to have it and so I did.

You can see it here (plus all of the other colors they have): http://www.colette.fr/#/eshop/article/133205/nixon/95/

Things I Have: Italian Sandals

When I arrived in Roquebrune, I noticed that my friend John-Mark was wearing some Birkenstock-esque sandals. I loved them! Very 'gladiator', which is a look I'm not always a fan of (right, Lauren?)... but with this sandal it worked.

Well John-Mark then relayed that they weren't Birks but from an Italian brand. Luckily when I was in San Remo a few days later I found them... done by Superga... for 30 Euros! What a deal -- and they are so comfortable.

Please ignore this photo with my gross feet, and check out Superga's offerings for yourself (they make great canvas sneakers too!)... http://www.superga-usa.com/

Things I Have: Anchor Sweatshirt

So, I recently posted about an APC sweatshirt that I wanted. Well... thanks to the Bon Marche in Paris, I now have it! Found it there on my recent holiday and had to pick it up. While I had initially posted about the gray, I ended up with blue.

It's a great piece -- well fitted, and not too thick. And it continues my obsession with the nautical theme!

You can check it out, plus the rest of their Fall collection at: http://uscheckout.apc.fr/browse.cfm/4,362.html?type=1&look=7&piece=1&prevpiece=4%2C320&nextpiece=4%2C348

Things I Have: Striped Sweater

So no, this is not me wearing the sweater... but I did buy it and I love it. The stripes on the lower part are great and then the big blocks of red at the bottom (and on the sleeves) add some nice color. Reminds me of a very French sailor's sweater (minus the buttons on the shoulder).

Ordered it from a new label called Company of We. They sent out a promotional coupon + I took advantage of it!

You can find out more about this sweater & the rest of the collection from Company of We at: http://www.companyofwe.com/product_p/knit003rd.htm

Things I Want: Moncler Gamme Bleu

I've posted before about this collab between Thom Browne (who I LOVE) and Moncler. Well here's a piece for Fall '09 that I think is rockin' and rollin' and stays true to both identities.

Great vest, great buttons, love the high collar. I am in.

You can see further photos of the collection from Highsnobiety: http://www.highsnobiety.com/news/2009/07/13/moncler-gamme-beu-fallwinter-2009-collection/#more-51996

Things I Want: Bike from Urban Outfitters

I'm on a cycling kick... so many great bike collabs are coming out and I feel like I see more and more cyclists around L.A. Yeah! Now from Urban Outfitters, a fixie (one-speed) that you can customize yourself, all for a great price.

I actually like the gray color shown here -- and it would be fun with some colored wheels (or a yellow seat).

You, my cycling enthusiast friend, can learn more here: http://bikes.urbanoutfitters.com/

Things I Love: Lacroix Couture

Well there has been a lot of talk since Christian Lacroix filed the French equivalent of bankruptcy a few weeks ago... and speculation if he would show a Couture collection this week.

Let's just say he did it... with gusto! Amazing amazing amazing.... in fact there have been a lot of incredible pieces shown so far this week, so expect more posts to come. But I had to kick it off with this incroyable photo:

You can see the rest of the collection at WWD: http://www.wwd.com/fashion-news/christian-dior-couture-fall-2009-2202208

Things I Want: Anchor Wallet from Jack Spade

More anchors! This is from Bread & Butter (happening in Berlin), a preview of Jack Spade's collection for Spring '10. The problem is I don't want to wait! I want this wallet now!

Anyway, very cool stuff...

You can read more about it on Selectism.... http://www.selectism.com/news/2009/07/02/jack-spade-springsummer-2010-preview/

Things I Want: Anchor Sweater from A.P.C.

As a lot of people know, I am going crazy over "nautical" right now. Anchors, wheels, yellow, stripes... so of course I fell in love with this Fall sweater from A.P.C.

Anchors away!

You can read more about it, and the rest of the collection, at Selectism: http://www.selectism.com/news/2009/07/01/apc-autumnwinter-2009-preview/

Things I Want: Quilted Vans

I am loving these Vans! Great colors and the quilting is very cool. I definitely want to add these to my (growing) Vans collection... I think yellow (naturally!) and the black would work well in my closet. Oh, maybe red too.

You can read more about these lovelies at Hypebeast: http://hypebeast.com/2009/06/vans-2009-fall-quilted-slip-on-pack/

Things I Have: Tuxedo by Patrik Ervell

I fell in love with this tuxedo the moment I saw it at Opening Ceremony. I'm a huge fan of Patrik Ervell... and the navy jacket with black lapel was perfect. Tried it on, loved the fit, but couldn't justify owning another tux.

Then I stopped into Opening Cermony last month and randomly asked if by any chance they had any of the tuxedos left. Somehow they had one, and it was my size. Fates had aligned and I bought it on the spot.

Now the photo here is from the lookbook... I haven't modeled it yet because I still need to take the pants in to my favorite tailor (Dina, at Sweetzer/Beverly).

But soon, very soon, I will be rockin' this amazing look!

That is all.

Things I Love: Unknown Hipster Sketches

So I came across my favorite new site... Unknown Hipster! As much as I love the "on the street" photos by the Sartorialist, I think these sketches are just brilliant.

Here is one with Margherita Missoni... but another fav is the one he did of Thom Browne. Looks just like him!

Check out the site (http://unknownhipster.com/) and enjoy them all! Brilliant!

I'm back... and some Dries for Spring '10

I know, I know... I have taken a long break from this site. But fear not, while I've been gone I have been accumulating a lot of great things that I want, a few that I love, and a couple that I have (Patrik Ervell tuxedo, what?).

To start it off, I had to post about Dries van Noten, who just showed his Spring '10 collection in Paris. I've long been a fan, and my affection continues with these amazing prints. Must. Have. The. Shirt.

You can see more from our friends at Hypebeast: http://hypebeast.com/2009/06/dries-van-noten-2010-spring-rtw-collection/.

Enjoy and you'll be hearing more from me soon...

Things I Love: Video by Kitsune

Well, I already think Kitsune rocks (see my post on their shoes with Pierre Hardy)... but then they go and do something fun + kitsch like this "music video" to show their new collection.  It's awesome!  Great tunes, some great threads, and irreverently done.

Found it on Hypebeast, shared with my friends, and you can see it here: Kitsune Video

Things I Love: Another Man Editorial

I saw this posted on Men's Rag today (love that blog) and thought these images were amazing.  This pink on pink was my favorite, but you have to check out the rest of the images... link below.

Here you go:  http://mensrag.com/2009/04/01/magrag-another-man-ss-09-editorial/

Things I Want: Shoes by Lanvin

Another brilliant shoe by Lanvin... love it, love it, love it. The suede pieces, the stiching around the ankle, the inlaid materials.

And I know, I have been so delinquent lately in posting. But now I am back & will be sharing the things I want, the things I have (not much new lately, to be honest), and the things I love. Stay tuned.

Meanwhile, you can learn more about these kicks from Selectism: http://www.selectism.com/news/2009/03/25/lanvin-autumnwinter-2009-footwear/

Things I Want: Dries Van Noten Shoes

These shoes are HOT! I want a pair... love the classic black oxford, but with the stripe of color (yellow, of course) and the buckle. Outstanding job!

You can check them out at Selectism: http://www.selectism.com/news/2009/03/05/dries-van-noten-contrast-oxford-shoes/

Things I Love: Twister at Barney's

I saw this today on Division Street and thought it was fantastic. What a fun way to use the mannequins and a Spring collection. Go Barney's!

You can check it out at: http://divisionstreet.us/?p=1318

Things I Want: Sneakers by Bottega Veneta

I am a more recent convert to Bottega, especially as they've expanded their offerings. Was really close to getting their credit card holder as my new wallet, but as readers of this blog know, settled on the CdG tartan instead.

Now I see these rockin' sneakers, using the weave they're known for but with a splash of color with the orange sole. Pretty cool!

You can check them out at Selectism: http://www.selectism.com/news/2009/02/28/bottega-veneta-springsummer-2009-trainer/

Things I Want: Bag by Porter

Yes, another bag. I can't help myself!

Saw this one on Hyr Collective and agree that it is a perfect beach/picnic/weekend bag.

Read more about it here: http://www.hyrcollective.com/daily-blog/2009/02/porter-lake-bag/

Things I Love: Marchesa

Marchesa, Marchesa, Marchesa! I love it all... I thought last season was fantastic until I saw shots of their Fall '09 collection. Amazing, with these being two of my favorites. Don't really know what else to say, it's just some outstanding work.

Images from WWD....

Things I Want: Suit + Shoes by Band of Outsiders

I was a lucky guy and also attended the Band of Outsiders Fall '09 presentation last week. It was outstanding! I've long been a fan and think this collection had some great pieces.

My favorite was this three piece suit -- I really liked the sheen, and I am a sucker for all things blue. Also a must have are the shoes, part of a collaboration done with Sperry. The rubber boat shoes were just awesome and I want a pair. Stat!

You can check out the whole collection at: http://men.style.com/fashion/collections/F2009MEN/complete/thumb/BOOMEN?trend=&page=1

Things I Want: Michael Bastian Sweater

Okay, so it's not very often when I post about something I want and I've actually seen it on the runway... well here's a first!

I attended a couple of Fall '09 shows over the weekend, one of which was Michael Bastian. It was a fantastic show and I would like at least half of the collection. But the piece that stood out was this sweater... have. to. have. it.

You can check out photos of the whole collection (plus a review) here: http://men.style.com/fashion/collections/F2009MEN/complete/thumb/MBMEN

Things I Love: Halston Runway Show (Online)

Okay so I am not going to say it has the same edge as Viktor & Rolf's online show (previously posted...) but it is still done quite well. Halston, Fall '09.

Like the music, like the fluid motion of the model running. Kitschy & cool.

Ch-ch-check it out here: http://www.halston.com/fall2009/

Things I Want: Bag by Henrik Vibskov

This is a week of Vibskov posts.... first the socks and now this hot bag. Yes, I know, I have a bag problem. But I love the simplicity of this one (which Selectism also notes, as it is a departure from the designer's usual color explosion).

It also looks like a good size to get carry around town. I'm in!

Read more about it at: http://www.selectism.com/news/2009/02/11/henrik-vibskov-pejse-bag/

Things I Want: Shoes by Lanvin

I have to admit, I wasn't always the biggest fan of Lanvin. But it has been their shoes that lured me in, and now I love their stuff (see prior post on Lanvin x Acne collab).

This is the second pair of their shoes I've posted... I love the two tone, it makes me think someone stepped in a bucket of paint. I've been thinking a lot lately about how paint splotches or thick stripes of acrylic paint can change the look of something. These shoes fit right in.

You can read more about them from our friends at Selectism: http://www.selectism.com/news/2009/02/09/lanvin-cap-toe-blucher/

Things I Want: Henrik Vibskov Socks

I love wild socks... at work I'm somewhat known for always having stripes and color blocks and something a little different. So when I saw these by Henrik Vibskov, I had to jump. Especially loving the yellow (because yes, I am all about yellow).

Great find from Highsnobiety: http://www.highsnobiety.com/news/2009/02/07/henrik-vibskov-springsummer-2009-collection/#more-27959

Things I Love: Jak and Jill Blog

I have to be honest that I don't remember which blog tipped me off to Jak & Jill... but I am obsessed! They've been posting amazing photos from Paris and Milan Fashion Weeks and who knows, maybe I'll get a cameo during NY!

Great shots from Rick Owens, of the Gamme Bleu models, of Karl (ohhh Karl) hurrying down the street. I am in love with this blog.

I strongly urge y'all to check.it.out.: http://jakandjil.com/blog/

Things I Want: Seersucker Coat by Hickey

I have always been a sucker for seersucker. It's so big in the South, and not so popular where I grew up, but I'm always drawn to it. And I have a thing for pink... so this coat by Hickey in both seersucker & pink is perfect.

Great item for Spring/Summer, keeping you looking sharp and staying cool. I think a paisley pocket square would finish this off just right!

I found this at Acquire Mag but here's the link to the Hickey site: http://www.hickeystyle.com/website/product.asp?s_id=2&prod_name=seersucker+sportcoat&pf_id=H91550051&dept_id=4165

Things I Love: Via Snella Photo Shoot

First of all, this is my 51st post! Second, I saw the shots of the Spring '09 collection for Via Snella on Mens Rag and connected with it. The geometric shapes were great and I loved the shots featuring no product but just a table or a man's arm.

That said, this image stuck out to me. Love the crossed legs, love him sitting on the lagger, love the placement of the fabric in front of his face and the holes for his eyes.

You can check out the rest here: http://mensrag.com/2009/01/29/designer-rag-via-snella-ss-09/

Things I Have: Waxed Cotton Coat by J. Lindeberg

I have been searching for a new winter coat. I have had a beautiful wool coat for a few years now as well as a less expensive but trendier pea coat that I bought in Amsterdam. Both have had a lot of wear & tear and it was time for a replacement.

Since I'll be traveling to cold climates in the next couple of months, it was a priority to find something! Luckily I scored a great coat last week... found it at Confederacy, the relatively new store in Los Feliz. It is by J. Lindeberg, a waxed cotton with a zip in vest. I love it!

Check out J. Lindeberg at: http://www.jlindeberg.com/en/maincollection/

Things I Have: Heath Bowl

Okay so I know this is not a menswear item, but I just received a Heath bowl last night as a gift (thanks John!) and had to show! I have been wanting some Heath for a long time... first started seeing it at OK, a gift shop near my house. But now Heath has opened its very own store + studio on Beverly.

John was kind enough to get me my first piece and I love it (I have the medium sized bowl below)

You can check out the rest of their work at: www.heathceramics.com

Things I Want: Glasses by Dita

Okay so this is my second post about eyewear. The Tom Ford frames now have some competition by these gems from Dita. The style is called 'Lever'. Love them in this white color! I also like that they're a pretty standard shape & size -- nothing too "Mikli" (although I do like his flamboyance at times).

I've seen this style and the rest of their Spring '09 collection on a variety of sites this week... (Men's Rag, Hypebeast)

You can check them out online at: www.dita.com.