Thom Browne S/S 2011: Things I Love

Where do I begin... I think I've written after every single Thom Browne show to say that I wish I could have been there. It is so much more than just seeing a collection -- it is an experience. From his Pitti show with 40 models sitting at desks, to showcasing a S/S collection at an indoor swimming pool, to models sleeping on cots to open the show... Thom does it all!

This season he moved the show for his own line (versus the collection he does for Moncler) to Paris. And he put the models in spacesuits. And they had yellow glitter lips (an evolution from his last NY show where they all had a black striped down their lips). And it all looked amazing!

Really liked the variation on the jacket and shorts -- a lot of stripes, use of Thom's core palette (white, blue, red, gray) and a very playful streak.

I've included photos from two of my favorite looks... sharks and some fun yellow madras. And while I want both, I know Thom's price points and firmly believe these will remain in my dream closet, and not my real one.

You can check out all of the looks at Style.com: http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2011MEN-TBROWNE. You can also see a video of the show from the T Magazine blog: http://tmagazine.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/06/28/now-screening-thom-browne-2/.

Enjoy!

Porter x Adidas Sneakers: Things I Want

As you know from past posts, I am addicted to Porter. I don't know what it is... oh wait, I do know. It is the bright colors, the use of plastic and vinyl, and the great designs. The Porter wallet in my back pocket attests to that!

And I've been obsessed with high tops the past year... so this collab between Porter and Adidas is calling my name.

Love the back zipper, love the quilted sides, love the color (perfect for Fall). Gimme these shoes!

Porter is still not easy to find Stateside, so I may have to order these from Japan. Hai!

Check 'em out at Hypebeast: http://hypebeast.com/2010/06/porter-adidas-originals-nizza-high-green-tanker/

Theory Sportscoat: Things I Have

On last weekend's shopping excursion I tried on a great sportscoat from Theory. I've been addicted to sportscoats the past couple of years and now have a nice array in my closet.

This one from Theory was nice and light (for Spring), blue and white stripes, and fit me so well. Actually everything from Theory fits me well... often when I wear their dress shirts I am asked if they were custom tailored for me.

So how could I pass this up, especially given it was on sale. Well... I didn't.

I got mine at Barney's (aka Mecca), but you can look at it on the Theory website: http://www.theory.com/mens-sportcoats-royden-emanate/A0184125,default,pd.html?dwvar_A0184125_color=BW3&start=3&cgid=sale-mens-sportcoats

Check it out!

Armani S/S 2011: Things I Love

Fine... when you start a show with Evandro Soldati on the runway, you have my attention. Although lately the Brazilian is everywhere!

But I was actually really intrigued with Armani's showing for S/S 2011 -- the leather, the military influence, and even the unitards.

In the look below (avec monsieur Soldati), I love the rolled leather pants (that do look like leggings), the buttoned up shirt, and light jacket. In fact going through images from the show, I was mesmerized by the number of looks that were completely black. Part of me wanted to say -- Giorgio, this is for S/S! But I still love it.

You must must must check out the rest of this collection... the Armani team pulled it out!

http://www.style.com/fashionshows/complete/slideshow/S2011MEN-EARMANI?loop=0&iphoto=0&play=false&cnt=103

Brown Wingtips: Things I Have

So I did a little shopping this weekend. What can I say... it's been a while, and Barney's was having a fab sale. I stocked up on some great deals -- functional pieces that I know I'll use!

One of the first purchases I made yesterday was a new pair of leather lace-ups. I've been looking at wingtips for a while now, and these (made in Italy) fit so well and I loved the rich brown color.

Since I feel like I'm always obsessed with casual shoes (especially high tops as of late), this dressy pair will be a welcome addition to my closet. Check 'em out on Barney's website: http://www.barneys.com/Wingtip%20Blucher/500455173,default,pd.html.

Shorts from Bonobos: Things I Have

I have been looking for a new pair of shorts for a while now. Everything I've seen has either been too long, too tight, too expensive.

Then I took a look at the Bonobos website and found they had a small but colorful selection of shorts. Since I l-o-v-e my two pairs of Bonobos cords, I figured I'd give their shorts a try.

I settled on the Crabby Shacks, a washed red color. Except when I was ready to buy, they were out of stock. So I submitted my e-mail address and was notified when they had more available. Then, the first size I ordered was a bit too small. Urgh. So I exchanged them (with free shipping!) for the next size up, which fit perfectly.

This weekend I wore the shorts for the first time and LOVE them! They are the most comfortable things... and I adore the Hawaiian print on the pocket linings, always a nice detail from Bonobos.

You can go here to pick up a pair of Crabby Shacks for yourself: http://www.bonobos.com/store/item/crabby_shacks, or go to the general Shorts page to see the other colors and styles: http://www.bonobos.com/store/cat/shorts.

Enjoy!

Jil Sander S/S 2011 at Pitti: Things I Want

This year at Pitti Uomo, Jil Sander was invited to do the special presentation (an honor Thom Browne had last year... I'm still salivating over it!).

And after seeing photos and video today of the show, let me just say that Raf Simons turned it out! What an amazing collection for Spring 2011! While the label's namesake has been rockin' and rollin' over at Uniqlo (with her J+ collab), I think Raf has been doing a great job at invigorating both the men's and women's lines (plus the new Navy line).

I love the solid bright colors, the layering of colors, the striped knits, and the floral motif. I am seriously pining for purple shirt and green pants below. And the light pink jacket. And the purple shorts. And...

I shared a few of my favs here, but please do check out the rest of the show: http://blog.wearethemarketblog.com/?p=6647. And a great review from Esquire: http://www.esquire.com/blogs/mens-fashion/jil-sander-pitti-061710.

Anna Dello Russo T-Shirt: Things I Love (and Want)

Ack! I am dying right now at how badly I love these Anna Dello Russo t-shirts! They are amazing!

I came across them this morning on Fashion Week Daily, which linked me to Yoox, who told me they are sold out. So sad.

I love seeing the street photos of Anna at all of the shows, seeing the inside of her closet, and more recently reading her blog: www.annadellorusso.com.

Let me know when the shirts are available again and I will be first in line! Trust!

Sandals from South Willard: Things I Want

Just the other day I was walking past South Willard (yes, it's in my neighborhood) and made a mental note that I needed to pop in. I think it's a great store, small but carrying a well edited selection of labels.

Today I was perusing their website (after seeing a link to it from Valet Mag), and came across their selection of summer sandals. Leather sandals made just for South Willard. And I think they are awesome!

It was tough to select my favs, but I think these brown ones win. While I like simplicity in sandals, the additional straps really make the design. And at just over $100 they are a great deal for handmade, leather sandals.

But they do have other styles and colors, so go to their website and check them out: http://www.southwillard.com/collections/accessories/hand-made-sandals/. Now!

Things I Love: My Wallpaper* Cover

My good friend John turned me onto Wallpaper* magazine many years ago... but I've only been a subscriber for 2.

I really enjoy the breadth of design, fashion, travel, and lifestyle topics they cover and especially the in-depth looks at various countries and markets.

For the August issue, Wallpaper* gave subscribers the opportunity to design their own cover. Using pre-selected patterns, copy, images, and colors you could put together your own creation.

And... here is mine!

It won't arrive until end of July, but I love it already... and what a brilliant idea (I am still trying to figure out how they'll print and bind unique designs for each person).

Duffel from Herschel: Things I Want

Always on the lookout for new luggage, but especially for a nice weekend bag. I mean, I think I only have four or five already, so an addition to the collection is most welcome.

Yesterday I came across this great duffel from Herschel and have to admit I was sold on the shoe compartment. Great way to keep your (often dirty) shoes away from the rest of your items, and keeps them accessible as well.

I also really liked the leather handles and the contrasting navy blue color of the bag.

Now unfortunately the bag is not available until July 1! But for now read more about it at Hypebeast: http://hypebeast.com/2010/06/herschel-2010-springsummer-collection-duffle/.