Out's September fashion story "The Migrants," shot by Walter Chin, features some of fall's hottest runway looks and was shot on location at an upstate New York farm. We asked Out's editorial and fashion assistant, Brent Coover, to instruct us on the fine art of adding a few key pieces to your wardrobe -- without looking like a country bumpkin.
All Photos by Walter Chin
Dolce & Gabbana's equestrian inspired runway show featured tailored pants and luxe riding boots paired with chunky scarves and sweaters. The result encompasses masculine ease but isn't sloppy. Grab those loose knit pieces that look handmade, but not homely.
The problem with shearling is that it is so sexy. Who doesn't fantasize about a lumberjack or a farmhand? But on common boys or city folk, it can easily seem silly and like you're trying too hard. This Marc Jacobs jacket (above left) with shearling collar and lining, however, has a modern and fresh cut and color.
Playing with proportions is definitely something to take note of, though it may not be for everyone. Alexander McQueen's shawl collar cardigan (above right) is a prime example -- it would look great with suiting pieces or just a great pair of worn-in jeans.
Let's be honest, no one actually looks this good chopping up trees. Then again, no one wears head-to-toe Gucci while gathering firewood. But look at that beautiful leather jacket with fur collar! Definitely a must-have item.
Plaid, whether tartan or bold, woven cotton or knit wool, is a necessary purchase if you don't already own. It was around last year and by the looks of this Yohji Yamamoto jacket (above left), it really isn't going anywhere.
An entire pony hair trench, like this Burberry (above right), is a tough one albeit beautiful. It's a nice variation from the usual textures. Try a pony hair belt or pony loafers.
The great thing about these brown D&G leather cargo pants is that they have that worn-in look and yet the cut is entirely new. Check out the elastic finish at the hem. We've been seeing this on all kinds of trousers, including knit pants in cashmere, wool, and cotton, which was an overwhelming trend.
The lesson to be learned from this Calvin Klein look: feel free to mix textures, fabrics, and colors, especially when dressing in less than common materials like suede.
"It was lightning in a bottle," says Paul Wilmot, who was head of public relations at Calvin Klein in the late 1980's, when the supermodel phenomenon took flight. "Suddenly you had five or six incredibly glamorous and beautiful girls, and they all looked different. And they all were known by their first names. And they all palled around. That has never happened before. It was almost the female equivalent of Sinatra's Rat Pack."
Look no further than September's Vogue to find the Supers in a succession of ads: YSL, Prada and Chanel, starring Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista and Claudia Schiffer. Turn another page for Kate Moss cocooned in Donna Karan's claret wool bouclé, then Stella Tennant posed in gold lamé Marc Jacobs and then, a few pages later, Tennant again, this time jeweled and glossy for Vera Wang.
On the way from Kate to Stella, don't miss a visit from "'90s icon Alex Lindquist for Brooks Brothers (in other photos from this spread, not in Vogue, he shares the bench with "80s Bruce Weber muse and model Jeff Aquilon). At 300 or so pages in there's also a double page spread of Christie Turlington in Escada, and then Schiffer again, paired with the sensational ballet dancer Robert Bollé for Salvatore Ferragamo...
The glamazons return -- and we haven't even hit the editorial yet. In the meantime, enjoy this clip shot by fashion photographer Peter Lindbergh, which captures the creative zeitgeist of the girls' silent screen aura:
Passing Judgment: being that he is headlining the Fashion Rocks concert, it's no surprise to see Justin Timberlake grace this year's FR mag cover--and he is "gracing" with all the svelteness of a high class waiter. [The Cut]
A happy belated Birthday to the ever
inspiring and always fabulous Tim Gunn! At 55 he's still working it
like he owns it, because he basically does. [AP]
If you have, like $18,000 to blow on just whatever, you can get your very own pair of vintage (and we mean vintage) Levi's from the 1890's that were found in a mine in the Rand Mining District, on the Mojave Desert,. California. Sounds like a totally legit investment. [Kottke]
Did they or didn't they, did they or didn't they? In what is likely only a brilliant publicity stunt on Marc Jacob's part, everyone is still guessing whether he wed is three-month Brazilian boyfriend this past weekend. It's almost too much to handle, but you bet your bottoms I'm going to do my best to keep up. [The Cut]
It looks like someone's shelf life is about to expire; it's being reported that Jil Sander is up for sale. The label was purchased by a private equity fund in 2006 (which bodes so well for a designer label), but they are claiming fatigue of "waiting for Jil Sander’s bottom line to match its critical acclaim." [WWD] Vanity Fair has just released it's annual best dressed list. Topping the list of men? David Beckham. Coming in at number two? His bulge. [The Cut]
When designers branch out into markets that are hardly their own, it's always fun to see if it's going to be a success or a train wreck. With that in mind, who's not excited to see the mock-ups of Roberto Cavalli's new dance club in Dubai? The rendering looks cheap, and we don't see any animal print in the interior decoration! Honestly, Roberto--abandoning you morals so quickly? [The Cut]
Simon Doonan and longtime partner Jonathan Adler will tie the knot in California in mid-September. Ever the quipster, Doonan is foregoing a big bash, saying "I always thought we were married, so I don’t feel like celebrating the
fact that the government’s allowing me to think I’m married. It’s more
like paying a parking ticket.” A long, long overdue parking ticket, sir. [The Cut]
Christian Siriano, everyone's favorite androgynous pixie, has unveiled his new line on Bluefly.com as part of his winning package from last season's Project Runway. It's cute stuff if you need to suggest a few things for the drab hag in your life, and each piece has Siriano-esque names such as "Posh" (who is one of his biggest supporters) and "Transylvania." As long as there's no "fierce" I'm fine. [NYT]
Men's Fashion Week is underway in New York, and I'm sitting here blogging about it rather than sitting there watching....which was not the case last year...excuse me while I make a few calls. [Material Interest]
In case you were wondering, Girogio Armani wears a speedo. You go, girl! [Socialite Life]
Mike Albo goes on a gay shopping adventure in Provincetown for The International Herald Tribune...and doesn't make it much farther than Marc by Marc Jacobs. [IHT]
Despite the continued success of Rock n' Republic denim, it turns out retailers aren't quite as excited about Victoria Beckham's men's line from her other denim collection, dVb. Retailers are unwilling to stock the baggier, more casual denim because of poor sales and her shoddy promotions. Put her husband in those jeans with an oiled body and no shirt--we'll pick up a few pairs then. [This Is London]
Marc Jacobs rolled into the 303 Gallery in Chelsea apparently looking
"scruffy and homeless," according to the employee who asked him to
leave when he didn't recognize him. Though Jacobs left without any
hoopla, the poor low-level staffer was fired on the spot when the owner
found out. [NYP]
While Hedi Slimane has always been a muse of sorts for us, he is now the inspiration behind the debut issue of Vogue Homme in Japan. However, it doesn't stop there. Not only is the 20-page spread being modeled after his own skinny boyish type model, but he is also photographing the whole thing for the magazine. Does this man ever stop? (We hope not.) [WWD]
So we all know that cropped pants are raging this summer; and that means you have to show off your ankles sans socks (you aren't Michael Jackson, after all). Word to the wise: don't go sockless. Slippery, sweaty leather is just as gross as the smell that will come from it. [NYT]
Alexander McQueen launches his online store today. You're only a click away from fur hats, ponchos and, at least, a good pair of boots. For $50 extra, Manhattanites can get their clothes same day if ordered before noon. [WWD]
Marc Jacobs loves to make a statement (which is one of the many reasons we adore him). He always hawks festive wares and sports colorful window displays (Look! It's Marc in drag!) in his Bleecker Street boutiques, but now he's selling a rainbow t-shirt for Pride. But the shirt is making a statement that has ruffled a few feathers within the gay community.
The "Rebel Pride" shirt, designed by Jon Lynn, features a remixed upside-down rainbow flag with a confederate flag superimposed over it.
The Confederate flag doesn't have the friendliest historical connotations. Sure, it's an emblem of rebellion (and rebellion is soo chic right now!), but for many people it represents slavery and bloody racial disputes. Is that a reference that we want mixed with the homo banner?
While the rainbow flag is meant to celebrate diversity and welcome everyone under the Skittles colors, the Confederate banner is often viewed as divisive. The gay community already faces a ton of criticism for being myopic when it comes to racial issues.
I appreciate that MJ loves to push the envelope, but what exactly is he trying to say or do with this shirt? Is he trying to reclaim the Confederate flag? Make the rainbow chic again? Protest the Bushies? We'll let you know if we hear anything from the man himself.
I have mixed feelings about the shirt mostly because of my own crazy experience with the Confed flag. In my high school, when the gay-straight alliance created an educational display to celebrate June as gay pride month (I grew up in the SF Bay Area, just 30 minutes from the Castro), the right-wing students raised the confederate flag on our school's flagpole, while wearing offensive shirts with "straight pride" and "white pride" slogans. Needless to say, it wasn't pretty. Kids walked out of classes to protest, fights ensued, countless threats of violence occurred, parents complained about the gay pride display to administrators and many students were just plain scared. It was a horrible time and the GSA was forced to take down the seemingly-innocuous display. Needless to say, I'm not a big fan of the Confederate flag.
So, what do you think? Is Marc Jacob's gay pride shirt fashion forward or fashion faux-pas?
Fulfilling reports last month, Josh Harnett can now be seen in the new fragrance campaign for Emporio Armani's Diamonds for Men. Meant to look like Harnett's being hounded by paparazzi, it comes off as wishful thinking because, really, who's following him around these days? [WWD]
Not only did Marc Jacobs drop the female gliterrati from his ad
campaigns, but it looks like he is doing away with female models all
together! For his Fall/Winter 08 collection he shot mens and womenswear on it-boy model Cole Mohr. With legs like his he should have been the one dangling them from a bag. Sorry, Posh. [Models.com]
Men's Spring 2009 ready-to-wear kicks off today in Milan, bringing next year's warm weather trends just as I'm getting ready to beef up my wardrobe with all the looks I saw for fall. I'll try not to get ahead of myself and stay in season, but Neil Barrett's collection is already pretty inspiring. [Men.Style.Com]
Slated to preview this week during the men's ready-to-wear shows in Milan is Prada's new men's fragrance, Infusion d'Homme. It hit's counters in September...[WWD]
...And Gucci will be ready with a rebuff. Frida Giannini had crafter her own scent for men that will also go public in September, and, with sales expected to reach $180 to 200 million, Prada better be ready for a throwdown. [WWD]
Creative Director Ricardo Tisci did wonders for womenswear at Givenchy, and now he is taking his eye for detail to his men's looks.
“My concept is to design styles for real men. Elegant, sharp, masculine clothes with a twinge of Latino street boy confidence." Que bueno. [DNR]
Being that it was Memorial Day weekend, the entirety of the media world took a little break. Fire Island was certainly (pun alert) ablaze. Here's what kept us busy. [Queerty]
LL Cool J is set to launch a clothing line at Sears that industry insiders are claiming will bank $100-150 million in its first year. Are we missing something? Hip-hop and ya don't stop, indeed. [WWD]
We've still yet to recover from the creepy Dakota Fanning ads for Marc Jacobs, so we're feeling a little more at ease knowing he's dropping the celebrity endorsements and using models again. [Fashionista]
Looking to vacay? Here are 10 stylish destinations for even the most seasoned jet-setter. Advisory: Fine tune those gaydars. The majority are European. [The Upgrader]
When it comes to the big T's of fashion, Tom and Thom (Ford and Browne respectively), we love them both for the two types of masculine man they try to dress, though TF's cheekbones and perky butt give him a slight edge. But what's the real inspiration behind their style? [NY Times]
Admit it: you've spent countless hours watching Sex & The City
wishing that you could dress yourself in the same fabulously offbeat
way Carrie does, only with your own masculine touch (or maybe not).
Well, Patricia Field--the show's stylist--is going to make it one step
easier for you with her own line at Marks & Spencer. [British Vogue]
We and every other media outlet talks about everything Marc Jacobs is except the one thing he really is--a designer. While speaking with students at Central Saint Martins school in London, he gave a few poignant nuggets on his life at Louis Vuitton and about starting his own label. OK, but who is he sleeping with again? [The Cut]
We were less than impressed (like, way less) with Chloë Sevigny's "collaboration" with Opening Ceremony, so we are readying our guards for her new line of menswear, that will also be available for women but in smaller sizes. If Chloë had a doll it would be called Business Saavy Sevigny. [Haute Concept]
Whether you were watching the UEFA Championship between Manchester United and Chelsea yesterday for the actual game or just for those bulging soccer legs, you may have noticed during press junkets that those boys looked rather dapper in their pre-game suits. Hot men and hot fashion--what a perfect afternoon! [British Vogue]
Not that anyone really cared that Bluefly was a unisex website, but it's still nice to see the launch of The Tailor, a site outfitted specifically for us dapper men who still love a bargain on a good suit. [The Cut]
Despite his party lifestyle, his non-stop art collaborations, his bed-hopping, and his self-obsession, Marc Jacobs claims he is not, in fact, the next Andy Warhol. Interview magazine begs to differ (and I might too). [WWD]
Speaking of MJ's wishy-washy sex life, it seems he's back with Jason Preston...for now. [Queerty]
Tonight is the GenArt's 10th Anniversary Styles Fashion and Awards show (sponsored by Botox no less), which will promise to feature a number of worthy up-and-coming designers, including Hyden Yoo. Considering he started his line with $50,000 he won on Fear Factor after sucking a goat's teat (all in a days work, right?) I think he deserves a shot. [Material Interest]
We are fast approaching that short-lived time span when white is officially fashion friendly. As Memorial Day looms, here are a few ivory footwears to keep you looking spic and span all summer--and thereafter if you so choose. [Refinery 29]
Though his name mostly pops up in reference to his bedmates, his ceaseless flaunting of his body or—somtimes—his clothing, could you ever imagine hearing Marc Jacobs pared with real estate mogul? Yup, #63 to be exact on the The 100 Most Powerful People in New York Real Estate. [The Cut via NYO]
Up to this point, all the drag queens could get on TV was a one-time America's Next Top Model-esque competition on The Tyra Banks show. Not that we don't appreciate her effort, but RuPaul (pictured) is poised to out do her with Drag Race, which hopes to find "America's next superstar drag queen." [The Hollywood Reporter]
As we reported last week, Jessica Stam was set to DJ at the Down to Earth party last night. It turns our words were twisted and she was only attending the party with her DJ friends—who spun the party—in tow. Now that's music to our ears. [Fashion Week Daily]
Everyone (designers, stars, paparazzi, your Stylelist...wait, no) is off to the French Riviera this week for the Cannes Film Festival. Eyes are peeled for what's hot on the screen, who's going to be seen, and, most importantly, who they'll be seen in. [WWD]
Finally, light has been shed on one of the fashion worlds most elusive and ever changing brain busters: we now the identity of Marc Jacobs' gorgeous new boyfriend. (Swoon!) [The Cut]
As Louis Vuitton continues to dabble in all things Eastern, they are now set to release MP3 audio walking guides for three major Chinese cities in conjunction with the start of the Olympic games in Beijing. Murakami might get his feelings hurt. [WWD]
Known far and wide for his work as creative director at Esquire (his stuff is showing at the MoMA for Christ's sake), George Lois is now taking his penchant for design to denim with the label My 3D Fit, which claims a better fit due to its double seamed side panel versus the traditional single seam. I mean, the guy did help launch Coca-Cola apparel back in the 80s, that bodes well...right? [Material Interest]
Pomades, waxes, gels? We just need our hair to look effortless and cute. Style.com helps us figure it out. [The Upgrader]
Although Roberto Cavalli cries at "vulnerable young animals," he still gets worked up by only "the amazing soft skin of a woman." And despite his love of leopard and zebra print, he's not gay...not gay. [Towleroad] -- SETH PLATTNER
Marc Jacobs with Sofia Coppola, Helena Christensen and his new mystery man.Photo: Getty Images
Summer is upon us, meaning we all need a pair of sexy shades. How else can we shamelessly ogle shirtless hotties in the park? Here's how to get the right pair. [Times Online UK]
Surface 2 Air, the quintessential mod French label, sunk hearts worldwide when it closed it's flagship on Rue de l'Arbre Sec in Paris. Luckily they've reopened a new shop in the Marais, and all is well again. We know you can only get to Paris, like, once a year for Fashion Week or whatever, so if you're itching to have these duds, they're also available online. [Material Interest]
It was just announced that this fall the new menswear brand Dillon and co., a collaboration from Cobi Levy (of Tyler Speed fame) and Miguel Enamorado (a fashion editor vet of Esquire), will hit Barneys (where else?). It's your typical fashionable male line complete with separates, suits and accessories, except without all the high-fashion flare that you try to pull off until you realize you don't really look like Chad White no matter how hard you try. [Material Interest]
As Marc Jacobs' harem of men keeps expanding, we're finding it hard to tell which escort, porn star or anonymous cutie he's taking to bed these days. Thankfully, there's a handy guide to keep it all in order. [Gawker] -- SETH PLATTNER
Cathy Horyn dishes on Marc Jacobs' collaboration with Juergen Teller. [On The Runway]
I don't want to act, I want to direct! Giorgio Armani is holding a competition to find the next great advertising director to film the next Emporio Armani Parfums commercial. He's inviting aspiring directors to create a commercial for his line of fragrances and submit them online. Submit your film by May 15th! The winner will be chosen by Mr. Armani himself. At least it won't be televised as a reality show. [British Vogue]
Are 50s Rockabilly fashions back in style in London? I thought the swing dancing and poodle skirts made their comeback about ten years ago. I guess we'll start seeing the greaser look stateside in about six months. [Independent via The Cut]
Calvin Klein is heading East...to the Middle East, that is.. to showcase collections and debut a new beauty line in Dubai. Since the U.S. economy sucks, why not hit up the oil-rich Emirates for some cold hard cash? [FWD]
Bahama-dwelling model/interior designer/author India Hicks will replace Todd Oldham (pictured) on Bravo's Top Design as a judge, but the cherubic homo will stay with the show and continue his role as the gay nurturing mentor a la Tim Gunn. [FWD]
The Pope is here! The Pope is here! There's a whole etiquette to addressing the Pope and New York has some soul-saving etiquette tips. Don't say "Your Popeness," "What's up, Pope?," "Hey Holyman," "Your Glory Holiness" or "Hi Holy Daddy." It's "Your Holiness." And don't forget to kiss his ring...seriously. [NY Mag]
Celebrities offer up some entertaining ideas for what the Pope should do during his stay in NYC. Carson Kressley's idea? Go shopping at Prada and the megadiscount store Century 21. Marilyn Manson paramour Evan Rachel Wood wins for best response! [NY Mag]
Marc Jacobs has an military fetish. He's selling refurbished Army bags at his Bleecker St. store for $45. [Racked]
James Franco is confirmed as the face for Gucci's Fall fragrance. Okay, so he's got that whole James Dean quality about him. [WWD]
A celebrity stylist- cum-jewel -thief who borrowed designer jewels for his clients and then sold them for some extra cash finds post-prison fame in Dubai. Who says stealing doesn't pay off? [NYT via The Cut]
The Italian Advertising Institute has banned an ad by Tom Ford depicting a man's finger in a model's mouth, claiming the ad was "exually implicit" and of "explicit and provocative character." How can you be implicit and explicit at the same time? Anyway, the agency failed to condemn the ad featuring a naked woman grabbing the crotch of a man in a suit. She was just checking the quality of the fabric. [Radar]
Fashion is obsessed with cartoons! Louis Vuitton's Richard Prince and Takashi Murakami collaborations have sparked cartoon mania for everyone from the GAP to DKNY. Now, the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute is jumping into the fray with a special exhibit. [NYT]
Carson Kressley, Bravo's most annoying fashion queen, named his horse Page Six. And suprise, Page Six printed the story. Lame PR stunt or is Kressley that ridiculous? [Page Six]
Some bloggers turn to their readers to figure out their next fashion move. Because their boyfriends won't tell them those jeans make their ass look huge. [NYT]
Auditioning for Project Runway: freak show or fashion show? You decide! [NY Times]
Inside last week's Louis Vuitton/ Murakami event at the Brooklyn Museum. Canal Street's gritty counterfeit markets are recreated inside the museum only the wares on the blankets are real Vuitton and cost their usual price. So, rich people can pretend they visit the Lower East Side. [NY Times]
Working in fashion is stranger than fiction— Ugly Betty and Devil Wears Prada just scratch the surface. But if you want to work in fashion, here are some low rung jobs that might suit your resume—or not. iPod Nanny? Dress Namer? Pecil Pusher? Send in your application now! [Independent]
Is Sasha Baron Cohen working on a new film as his alter ego, Bruno, a gay Austrian fashion journalist? The rumor mill says it could be out as soon as October. [Variety via Fashionista]
Would you pay $425 for a pair of Emporio Armani roller skates? Only if they could guarantee that I didn't fall on my ass. [Fashionista]
Take a video tour of John Varvatos' newest store that used to be Manhattan's legendary punk haven CBGB's. [NY Mag]
There are many qualities of a leader—and being a sneaker connoisseur turns out to be one of them. A study found that people who bought more three or more pairs of sneakers a year were more likely to have leadership qualities than the less-sneaker-oriented folks. I wonder what researchers have to say about men who wear high heels? [Yahoo/Reuters]
Naomi Campbell was released on bail after being held on suspicion for assaulting a police officer. Reports say she got in a tiff over lost luggage. [Reuters]
Louis Vuitton unveiled its Monogramouflage print designed by Takashi Murakami and Marc Jacobs. Just in case you need to engage in some urban warfare with an Upper East Sider at Saks Fifth Avenue. [Fashionista]
The NY Times channels a little Rebel Without a Cause in its obsession with leather jackets. [NY Times]
What should you do with that crappy smelling celebrity cologne your mother gave you for your birthday? Use it as mace to ward off burglars and muggers! Apparently, Elizabeth Arden Red Door perfume is highly effective. [UPI]
Giorgio Armani launched a line of super-lux luggage for men and women in patent crocodile skin. I wouldn't recommend checking that when flying with Delta. [WWD]
Police raided a warehouse in Queens and seized $5.5 million worth of counterfeit bags just hours before Louis Vuitton's Brooklyn bash to call attention to the evils of counterfeiting. Coincidence? Or brilliant marketing? Hmmm... [WWD]
Project Runway wins the Peabody Award, which are meant to honor excellence in entertainment and news broadcasting. Other winners include a documentary on wounded war veterans. Runway is the first reality show to win the prestigious award. An Emmy and a Peabody? Fierce! [The Cut]
A look from Moschino's Spring/Summer 2008 Collection.Photos: Getty Images
Each week, the fashion editors at Out.com answer your fashion questions! Visit Out.com for new advice or seek answers to your own style quandaries by sending an email to fashionadvice@out.com!
Q: Is
it just me or are the '80s coming back in a big way? I've already lived
through it once and am not loving the flashbacks! Do we have to go
through this again?
A:Yes,
whether you like it or not, the '80s are back in a big way. Neon was
splashed all over the runways from Dries van Noten and Marc by Marc
Jacobs to Moschino and 3.1 Phillip Lim! It's a huge trend for Spring
that you can't miss -- partly because it's so damn eye catching. If
you're shy about looking like an Electric Youth throwback, keep your
neon limited to accents and accessories. Add a pop of color with a bold
stripe on a sweater, a pair of dayglo hightops or even a shot of color on a skinny tie. If
you're feeling particularly brave and like to make a statment, pump up
the volume and reach for a solid shirt or pants in a fluorescent hue.
If you're not a fan of fluorescent, stick to the classic 80s looks from
gray jeans and jackets -- especially gray leather jackets from Diesel.
This time around, the looks are more tailored than their predecessors
-- so you won't feel like you're swimming in M.C. Hammer pants.
Jason Preston, Marc Jacobs' on-again-off-again-boyfriend, likes to set the record straight when gossip blogs screw up the facts. After a Gawker tipster described a sighting of Preston carrying "loads of heavy shit" and wearing "combat boots," Gawker reports that Preston left a voicemail describing his outfit in detail to clear up any notions that he carries his own luggage or wears common combat boots. Meanwhile, Marc Jacobs was spotted in L.A. with his new rebound boy toy. [Gawker]
Hot boys in their underwear make silly faces for a camera. The videos will debut at a video installation at the Tribeca Grand. God, I love art. [Fashionista]
Bloggers are finally getting some much-needed respect in the fashion industry as designers are granting more access to shows and launch events. What a relief! Sneaking in to these fabulous events Mission: Impossible-style is getting more difficult as the bouncers get bigger and meaner. [WWD]
Now listen up! Henry Holland wants to collaborate with Beth Ditto from The Gossip. Yes, please! [British Vogue]
What's in your manbag? Four Londoners empty their bags and reveal that everyone is more stylish in the U.K. [Guardian UK]
Don't mess with Karl Lagerfeld while he's working! While snapping photos of Jay-Z for a new Fendi campaign, a sneaky member of the paparazzi quietly began taking some pictures of his own until Lagerfeld's bodyguards served him an ass beating. I imagine that Karl just snaps his . [Page Six]
Simon Doonan (pictured, feeling up Donatella Versace), quite possibly the most fabulous window dresser ever, except for Hollywood in the Mannequin films, will see his own life portrayed on the small screen. His memoir, Nasty: My Family and Other Glamorous Varmints, will be turned into a comedy series for BBC2 in the UK by the producer behind Ab Fab, Little Britain and The Office. And don't forget to pick up Doonan's new book Eccentric Glamour, which hits stores April 8th. [WWD]
Need to lose some extra pounds immediately? Pour yourself into slimming
underwear. The girdle for men has hit Saks Fifth Avenue! Drag queens
rejoice! Now say it with me, boys: "Breathe up, not out." [Guardian UK]
M.I.A.'s Marc by Marc Jacobs ad campaign is pretty damn amazing. If you don't believe me, just click here. [FabSugar]
Sex and politics always go hand in hand—after all, everyone gets fucked by the government at some point. So, show your political position, whether you prefer to take your politics standing up, sitting or laying down with your legs in the air. Embrace the starfish as a new political party! Bottoms for Obama! [The New Gay]
Karl Lagerfeld changed his clothes. Seriously. Casting aside his black suit and skinny tie, he was snapped sporting a gray three-piece suit and bowtie. He didn't, however, lose his super-high collar. What else would hold up his head? [FabSugar UK via Jezebel]
Marc Jacobs and beau Jason Preston's relationship hit the skids last week while on vacay in Turks and Caicos. Page Six reports that the "nonstop screaming matches" got so bad that they spent time apart and eventually cut the trip short—flying home on separate planes, of course. Fighting is no fun without the makeup sex. [Page Six]
Threeasfour, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Band of Outsiders, Michael Bastian and Philip Crangi will all create limited-edition collections for GAP this year, but they might be tough to find. If a designer designs a collection for GAP and nobody can find it, does it still make a splash? [Fashionista]
Would you buy a $250 pair of cashmere boxer briefs? Me neither. But the girls at The Frisky were so captivated by them that they went on their own expedition into the land of pima cotton and bulges in men's underwear. [The Frisky]
Gucci, Chloé and Dunhill won a $4.3 million judgment against a bag counterfeiter. Vendors on Canal St. don't bat an eyelash, they just get more creative. [WWD]
Christian Siriano just might be the most successful Project Runway alum yet! WWD reports that he now has financial backers for his line, Posh Spice in his clothes, and a scheduled appearance on Ugly Betty—and W Hotels gave him a bed. His response to all this newfound success? "Fierccccce!" [The Cut]
Richard Chai to design a capsule collection of womenswear for Target as part of it's GO International program. Previous participants include Proenza Schouler, Rogan, and Jovovich-Hawk. Chai's collection is due out in August, but it won't be any fun for us boys. [Fashion Week Daily]
Abercrombie & Fitch tries to give back to the community by donating $10 million to a children's hospital, but the hospital might return it (with a receipt) because of pressures from 15 organizations like the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood, Parents for Ethical Marketing and several doctors who work at the hospital, claiming it sends the wrong message. Their ads and clothes are just too sexy, they say. I think it's safe to say A+F won't be posting any ads in the delivery rooms. [Fashionista]
New York Fashion Week will pack it's bags and move the tents from Bryant Park to the 10th Avenue Rail Yards after 2010. Talk about moving from the Penthouse to the Poor House. You can hear the confused fashionistas thinking "There's a 10th Avenue in Manhattan? I thought that was Jersey." Okay, so by then, the rail yards will be redeveloped into some prime real estate...maybe. [NY Daily News]
Riding high on the successful Richard Prince collaboration, Louis Vuitton is rumored to debut a new line of accessories tentatively called "Monogramouflage" (seriously!)—featuring the LV mongoram and a camouflage print designed by Takashi Murakami and our BFF Marc Jacobs—at the Brooklyn Museum of Art pop-up store on June 1st as part of the opening of Murakami's exhibit. [Fashion Week Daily]
In other Marc Jacobs-related news, his fiancé/boyfriend Jason Preston got in a late night scuffle outside a Chelsea club on Sunday after a drunken homo threw his drink at another queen and hit a woman instead. Preston, whose chivalry scores major points with me (Go Jason!), asked the guy to apologize to the woman and was fed a knuckle sandwich instead. The fight continued outside but Jason reports he's A.O.K. [Page Six]
The NY Times captures the It bag for men in Paris: the leather carryall. Homos everywhere toss aside their Jack Spade canvas messengers and head straight for something a little more butch...almost. [NY Times]
Are text messages dangerous for pedestrians? The City of London thinks so! Text-obsessed Londoners have apparently run into so many lamp posts while sending a message to their mates that the city has installed pads on many lamp posts. Well, this is the same city that thought giving pubs 24-hour drinking licenses would curb binge drinking and alcohol-related violence. What will they do to stop the walking-while-chewing-gum injuries? [Engadget]
Does Baby Phat designer Kimora Lee Simmons demand that someone stand beside her at all times during personal appearances to refill her champagne when her glass is less than one inch full? The NY Post thinks so. And come on, us size queens could always use a few more inches. [NY Post]
The New York Daily News reported today that Marc Jacobs was seen rubbing his finger up and down his boyfriends abs in a bar. Wait, why is this news? It would be news if Marc did that to Anderson Cooper. Must be a slow news day for Rush & Molloy. [NY Daily News]
Tim Gunn & Christian Siriano hold a walk-off. Clearly Miss Ferocia Coutura wins and tells Gunn that his walk is "not fierce!" [Mollygood via Queerty]
Just when you thought your mobile phone did everything you could ever hope, Adidas and Samsung have teamed up to create the F110 miCoach, a phone that tracks your heart rate, tells you when you're not running fast enough, counts your strides and holds 1GB of music. Now, if they could only figure out a way for it to run for me. [Engadget Mobile]
1. Become his favorite runway model of the moment, a la Jessica Stam. 2. Date Jude Law and become the English poster child of Boho Chic, like Sienna Miller. 3. Change your name to Rihanna and sing about Umbrellas. 4. Be an 80s pop-punk icon like Debbie Harry or Siouxsie Sioux 5. Earn a grammy nomination for your maybe-queer pop music and curly mop of hair, like the is-he-or-isn't-he Mika. 6. Take a page from Selma Blair and star in a John Waters film as a character with a cup size of 88HHH 7. Ride on the coattails of your Coppola family name and create Academy Award winning indie films. 8. Pull a Giselle and date Leonardo Dicaprio—then dump him for football hottie Tom Brady. 9. Date a drug-addled musician and get snapped doing lines of white powdery substances, think Kate Moss. 10. Create a scary/obsessive fan video on YouTube praising Marc Jacobs and boyfriend Jason Preston while dressing in clothes that resemble pieces from Marc's past women's collections for Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs labels—then blog the hell out of it—like Bryan "I'm so gay I sweat Glitter" Boy.
What about Jason Preston? The guy tattooed Marc Jacobs on his arm. Doesn't he get a bag named after him?
Nothing screams high-fashion like a great drag queen. Take New York City drag queens Brandy Wine and Brenda A. Go-Go as prime examples. Their getups for Marc Jacobs' Fall 2008 presentation Moet & Chandon party on Friday night left even the most daring of fashionistas feeling a bit tame when they eyed Brandy's cotton-candy pink wig (the higher the hair, the closer to Jesus, I like to say), the metallic silver handbag, the prism-like dress and sensible heels. And Brenda almost fits right in with the fashion crowd in her two-tone pumps, pleated skirt and keylime top.
CORRECTION: Sorry Lady Bunny! Getty Images mislabeled the image.
It’s no secret that fashion designers are obsessed with film.
Tom Ford tried to break into filmmaking after his much- publicized exit from Gucci, “Old Hollywood Glamour” is quite possibly the most-commonly cited (to the point of cliché) influence for red carpet gowns, and A-listers fight for front row seats at fashion week’s hottest shows.
So, it’s no surprise that fashion documentaries have become de rigeur for designers. Did you catch Lagerfeld Confidential? No? Well, hopefully you Tivo’d last night’s Sundance Channel premiere of Loic Prigent’s documentary Marc Jacobs & Louis Vuitton.
Prigent’s film takes an in-depth and unfiltered look at a pre-makeover Marc Jacobs and his amazing work for both his eponymous collection and Louis Vuitton.
Cameras capture all the backstage chaos as Jacobs and his teams make last minute preparations for fashion shows for both Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton collections. Surprisingly, Jacobs is not phased by the constant strobing flashbulbs of paparazzi and he works like a well-oiled machine. The film drives home the point that Jacobs makes no separation between his life and work.
One of the more comedic and borderline absurd moments occurs when Jacobs introduces his two friends, Sofia Coppola to Lil Kim, to one another backstage before a show. The two proceed to have a painfully awkward interaction while paparazzi capture every moment.
Filmmakers also followed Jacobs during his minimal amount of downtime during which he shops of art, which often becomes the inspiration for future collections and some of his most successful collaborations. Notable artists Takashi Murakami and Elizabeth Peyton sound off on the influence of Jacobs in their work. When asked how he and Murakami met Jacobs replies breezily, “I just sent him an email.”
Though the documentary offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look into the blood, sweat and tears behind a major fashion celebrity, you are left wanting more. At times, the film glosses over the well-publicized romances and past struggles with drug addiction, which have received almost as much press as his clothes.
If you didn’t have a chance to see the documentary, Sundance will air it again on February 18th at Noon. Set those Tivo’s! —Christine Zalocha
The fashion world is abuzz with the confirmation that Victoria "Posh Spice" Beckham was shot by Juergen Teller for Marc Jacobs' Spring 2008 ad campaign. Rumors of the deal began in September when Plastic Posh sat front row at MJ's NY Fashion Week show.
Personally, I have a love-hate relationship with Vicky. She's kinda funny looking in that angry blow-up doll kind of way but also kinda gorgeous. Personally, her ultra-plucked and polished glamazon look seems more suited to Louis Vuitton a la the days when J.Lo hawked Vuitton wares.
However, Jacobs has always picked a safely-polarizing celebrity for his ads (i.e. Winona Ryder after her shoplifting debacle and burlesque star Dita Von Teese), so Posh fits right in. It will be interesting to see how Posh looks after getting the Marc Jacobs/Juergen Teller treatment.
Marc Jacobs has caught a lot of flack lately for his so-called "mid-life crisis." But at last week's Out 100 party, he spoke to our own Popnography Princess Shana on the red carpet about why he hit the bottle—the bottle of punky color—and started his blue period!
For more video interviews with Marc Jacobs and his boyfriend Jason Preston, visit Popnography!
Marc Jacobs went on the record to explain his "sex change" operation...and fight rumors that he considers John Galliano to be his rival.
According to Fashion Week Daily, Marc Jacobs said, “I’ve had a very silly hernia repair surgery. So, I’ve been going to surgeons for check-ups this
week. Just to make sure everything is fine. But I feel healthy and
upbeat." It must be all that heavy lifting he's been doing at the gym for his hot new body!
And he also cleared up rumors that he was talking trash about the Dior designer while working out at the gym a few months ago. "Seriously, supposedly I was saying some less-than-positive stuff about
him in the gym. I can assure you they have me confused with someone
else!"
In other words, the conversation between Galliano and Jacobs at the Mercer last week wasn't Mean Girls-style playground quarrel. As much as I would love to see the tulle and organza fly between two dueling designers, perhaps that drama is best reserved for Project Runway.
NY Times fashion guru Eric Wilson overheard a conversation between fashion rivals Marc Jacobs and John Galliano last week while lunching at the Mercer Hotel that was more like a page from the Mean Girls script than idle chit chat! Isn't there some unspoken gay rule that you're not supposed to have more than one diva in a room at the same time? It's like having your Madonna and Cher dolls over for a slumber party at Barbie's Dream House. You just don't do it!
Here's what they boys said and what they really meant (sort of) while speaking in gay playground code...
“Hi, John!” Mr. Jacobs exclaimed. “How are you doing?" (IN OTHER WORDS: Oh, it's you.)
“Good, nice to see you,” Mr. Galliano said. “Oh, you’ve gone a little darker, I see.” (IN OTHER WORDS: Still letting your midlife crisis get the best of you, I see. You look like shit.)
“Navy!” Mr. Jacobs said. “Na-vy.” (In my wildest fantasy, MJ punctuated each syllable with a snap!) (IN OTHER WORDS Girl, you look like a cracked-out John Waters with that silly pencil-thin mustache above your lip! When was the last time you looked int he mirror?)
“Oh, that would be a little chicer,” Mr. Galliano said. “Indigo!" (IN OTHER WORDS: Miss Thang, you are so trashy! You couldn't look chic if you tried!)
“Well, if you ever feel like having tea or coffee, I’m sort of
bedridden for a few days, so I can’t move far,” Mr. Jacobs said. “I had
an operation.” (IN OTHER WORDS: I've got a whole team of plastic surgeons, nutritionists and personal trainers working on making this look hot! You're just jealous that all the fashion magazines actually want to photograph me in the birthday suit that God designed!)
“Oh really?" (IN OTHER WORDS: Oh Really?)
“Sex change." (IN OTHER WORDS: Girl, at least I don't look like a messy daytime drag queen on a hot day! Toodles!)
Yohji Yamamoto will follow in Karl Lagerfeld's footsteps and stage a fashion show for his Y's line in China at the invitation of the Chinese government. [WWD]
Is GAP using child labor to make their clothes? New allegations published by The Guardian say kids as young as ten are stitching away and the GAP launches a massive investigation. [British Vogue]
Marc Jacobs catches the Halloween spirit and dyes his hair blue. Perhaps he's dressing as a smurf? [NY Mag]
Is Tom Ford an environmentalist? In order to prevent any mining on his New Mexico Ranch, Ford bought the mineral rights to his 1,400 acres. [British Vogue]
Naked men at the Marc by Marc Jacobs store on Saturday! In Round 2 of Marc Jacobs' fundraising for skin cancer research, the men's store on Bleecker Street in Manhattan will release the newest batch of t-shirts featuring men baring all with the slogan "Protect Your Largest Organ." But this time, some of the people on the shirts actually work at the Bleecker Street store and, this Saturday, those brave staff members will appear naked at the store and sign t-shirts for hungry fans. [WWD]
Lanvin's superstar designer Alber Elbaz spilled his guts to a crowd during an intimate evening and discussion hosted by T Style. And we're more in love with Alber than ever. [Fashion Week Daily]
Fergie Ferg was tapped to be the next of M.A.C Viva Glam spokeswoman. Viva Glam supports the M.A.C AIDS Fund, and has raised more than $95
million dollars since 1994. I've always said that a little lipstick could change the world. [WWD]
Patricia Field, Sex and the City Stylist and downtown drag queen den mother, will design a line of clothes for Barbie. Young closetted gay men everywhere are cheering! Finally they can turn Barbie into the drag queen they always though she was and get her some appropriate clothing. Come on, with Barbie's measurements, she's more closely related to Amanda Lepore. [WWD]
Fendi's Runway Show on the Great Wall of China. Yes, that wall.Photo: Getty Images
Marc Jacobs takes it off...again. He doesn't get completely nude—that's a privilege he saved just for Out. Jezebel has the photos of MJ and his wacky tattoos. A red M&M? Really? [Jezebel]
Karl Lagerfeld staged a Fendi runway show on the Great Wall of China. Seriously! The fucking Great Wall of China. Is Karl Marx rolling over in his grave? [WWD]
Kate Moss was spotted chatting with American Idol-ass Simon Cowell. Gossip has it that she might be Top of the Pops, not just Top Model. [Fashionista]
Your StyleList reviewed the past Out 1400 honorees and took attendance of all the fashion designers between 1994 and 2006. Curious to find out who made the cut? Hope on over to the Out 100 blog for a fashion reunion. Lucky for you, someone spiked the punch.
Who has made the Out 100 list most? Here's a tally of our students who made the honor roll more than once:
Marc Jacobs - 5 Tom Ford - 4 Todd Oldham - 4 John Bartlett - 3 Dean and Dan Caten of Dsquared - 3 Giorgio Armani - 2 Karl Lagerfeld - 2 Michael Kors - 2 Robert Duffy - 2
Abercrombie and Fitch was attacked by a hairy, shirtless mob! In an act of love for Abercrombie & Fitch's flesh-heavy advertising and half-naked in-store models, Improv Everywhere rounded up 100 regular guys to shop shirtless at the New York City flagship store. Hilarity ensued and luckily it was all caught on film! [New York]
Is Victoria "Posh Spice" Beckham going to be the new face of Marc Jacobs? According to a source, Jacobs chatted up the pop starlet about modeling his spring collection. Say it ain't so, Marc! [WWD]
Paying $60/month for Proactive to treat your acne? Look no further than your local drugstore for relief. Remember Oxy and Clearasil? Same thing. Your wallet will thank you. [NY Times]
