Souvenir Jacket/Skazan/Sukajan No. 1

Japanese Traditional Vintage souvenir jacket, J.Crew tee and chinos, Burberry Prorsum loafers, Ugo Cacciatori and Enrique Muthuan rings

Hello, everyone!  I am excited to share the first souvenir jacket in my collection.  After months of hunting them down here in New York, I had no luck finding ANYTHING.  It was in Seoul that I was finally able to acquire a few pieces.  This isn't the first one I bought but I definitely used it the most when I amassed my starter set.  They come in the most beautiful colors and fabrics, and they are delicate so scoring vintage ones in great condition is quite hard.  

For those who don't already know, souvenir jackets originated in Asian countries when occupying forces would visit local artisans to embroider traditional motifs onto their jackets as souvenirs while stationed abroad.  This originated in Japan in Yokosuka, and the jackets came to be known as "Yokosuka Jumpers," or Sukajyan for short.  In Korea, they are known as Skazan.  The jackets are normally reversible with one side being more intricately adorned.  Each design is embroidered directly into the silk, rayon, or polyester that is regularly used to build the garment.

Of course the first one I choose to show you is one sided and a XXXL, but it is the only non-reversible souvenir jacket I own so far.  I love how big this one is.  It is a great shape that reminds me of Juun. J, or even a boyfriend jacket.  The off-the-shoulder thing comes pretty natural because of the size, but it is also nice to shrug off when it gets hot but you don't want to put such a stain-magnet down at a bar or club.  And apparently I was really into the Mr. Peanut while shooting this so ignore my crossed legs.

As loud as these jackets can get, I am happy I was able to find one in more neutral hues.  The embroidery is so detailed.  When I saw the dragons on the sleeves and the back, I had to have it.  These bad boys can cost a pretty penny, but I was able to grab this one for around $60 USD after bartering with the shop people.  I love that you can bring down prices in Hongdae vintage shops.  That is a steal for this kind of jacket, in this condition, that is made in Japan.  More to come soon!

- jerome

Shut the Front Door

Burberry Prorsum shirt, Enrique Muthuan Ring, ph by La-La Land

I have an excellent talent for making derp faces for street style bloggers.  For whatever reason, I am constantly mid-sentence, more specifically mid-curse.  Here is a very good photo of me about to drop an F bomb.  This phenomenon gets even worse when I know the camera is about to go off.  I can see them adjust their focus, but then I have no idea what to do with my hands or my neck and I end up just looking at my phone.  Oh well.

- jerome

The Cold Set

ATTENTION CALIFORNIANS:  50 DEGREE WEATHER IS NOT COLD

Zara Sweater and Scarf, Burberry Leather Motorcycle Jacket, 5cm x Dr. Martens Boots, Forever 21 Backpack

It seemed like winter crept upon the city over night.  A few weeks ago the winds were particularly vicious, finding ways to make you colder than you thought physically possible.  The rain that followed was almost soothing to your broken and chapped skin.  I haven't even gotten to the snow yet.  The blizzard "Nemo" was a rude awakening for my closet.  I thought I had an idea of how cold it gets in New York, but my calculations were very wrong.  This was the first time in my life where I checked the weather in my area and it was at 7 degrees.  You have to appreciate advancements in technology when a website can tell you "7 degrees, feels like 4 degrees."   Emergency bundling and tech-fabric stockpiling was crucial to my survival.   I avoid wearing anything too conspicuous when the weather is like this because I probably look like a miserable wet animal.  Precipitation can be unpredictable and I don't like taking chances with expensive designer outerwear or accessories.  Thank goodness for fast fashion and low prices.  This scarf kept me warm and acted as a shield for my face and ears.  Beneath the leather I am wearing are layer after layer of long sleeves, including UNIQLO's heattech crew neck.  Long johns of the same material are worn everyday.  Without these, I probably would freeze to death.  It might be time to invest in some real snow gear.  Canada Goose has wonderful offerings including a bomber model, longer minimal styles, and (my personal favorite) a down-filled oil rigger coverall.  Also, I might need a ski mask.

The day we shot these I realized that my rings absorb the cold efficiently and I might as well be carrying around ice cubes.  Never to be outdone by mother nature, I owe much gratitude to the human who invented gloves.  Udon or soba with hot tea and an extra bowl of pho on the side is mandatory on days like this. Whenever I am struck with homesickness, it usually stems from food.  There is nothing like the Asian food in California, but when the winter comes there is much more to miss about the west coast than noodle soups.  

There is another side to the coin.  It began to snow as I was walking home from the last fashion shows at Lincoln Center last night.  There is nothing like new snow fall; it is just as magical as people say it is.  Let's see how I feel about this in the next couple of years...

- jerome

New York State of Mind

Hermès Shawl and bracelets, Mr. Business "Louvre" Trench, H&M x Comme des Garçons Shirt and Socks, J. Crew Pants, Burberry Prorsum Shoes 

Hello everyone, and happy new year!  I know it has been a while since I last blogged.  Moving to New York changed my life dramatically, and major changes in my schedule, life, and relationships made it a little difficult to document everything.  However, I am happy to report things are all positive and I am writing again!  My photography set-up still isn't in place (I haven't found a spot in my apartment that was quite as perfect as in San Francisco), but I will try and share some looks the best I can.  A special thank you to my talented friend Anthony Amadeo for shooting this.  My friends named Anthony are both coincidentally incredible photographers!  The day we shot this, I had on plenty of new inventory to share.

This gorgeous blue trench was a godsend from the Amacord Vintage Fashion SoHo store here in NYC.  It was produced by an Italian brand called Mr. Business some time during the 1970's-1980's (I think).  The jacket was deadstock when I purchased it with the original hang tags still attached.  What luck to be able to grab it in the original condition!  Vintage finds like this make me wonder what other beautiful gems can be found locked away somewhere untouched.  The color of the denim is still the original shocking blue it was decades ago, and the shape of the collar holds well because of the fabrication.  Bonus: the hang tag says the coat is called the "Louvre."  

Rabbit Ring by Kasukobo Japan, Sea Urchin Ring by Ugo Cacciatori, 

Pendant Rings by Enrique Muthuan

My love affair with Hermès continues with their hand rolled cashmere and silk shawls.  The blend of these fibers makes them soft and comfortable to wear in different temperatures.  There are so many great options for colors and prints on each 56" x 56" canvas.  The color way of this particular shawl called "Couvertures et Tenues de Jour" was a very popular edition, selling out instantly because it was featured in the collection's catalogue.  When I saw it on eBay at the end of the season, I pounced (over paying just a little...).  Regrettably my sales associate called me a few hours later to tell me they had received the last one in the country and my head exploded.  Upon reflection, it was worth every penny to secure the piece.  I bought it just before moving to New York, and it has kept me warm in this new, frosty climate.

There are new editions to my ring collection including another gorgeous creation by Ugo Cacciatori.  The design is based on a sea urchin, another example of his re-occurring ocean theme.  Intricate details make me appreciate how much work went into the casting process.  The two pendant rings are by the Brooklyn based, Argentinian-lawyer-turned-designer Enrique Muthuan.  I first discovered him by chance at a fashion week party 2 years ago.  Tobias Sorensen was sporting some major jewels and I asked him where he got them.  Fast forward to Christmas 2012 when I was wandering the Holiday Market in Union Square, and there was Enrique with his own booth and an impressive spread of his inspiring work.  These two pendant rings spoke to me immediately.  The Virgin Mary is one of my favorite icons in any culture or language in which she manifests.  I think the other ring is Joan of Arc.  I have to confirm this with Enrique, but there is a soldier riding on a horse, so it is a fair assumption.  He has so many more pieces but I am so critically broke and I cannot choose!  Check out Enrique Muthuan's website for more information and his online store!  I love anything in solid 925.

I will try and post new things as they come along, but being the unpaid intern that I am, it will not be much.   As Anthony A. was shooting me in front of the Flatiron building, there was a busload of toursits unloading around us - which is probably why the best full shot of me was during a derp face.  Hopefully I find the right set up in a more private space like before, but OMG YOU GUYS I LIVE IN NEW YORK CITY.  It's been too long, I missed you.

- jerome   

Winter is Coming

The cold is coming fast and it is making me feel nostalgic. A revisiting to my fall/winter outerwear was long overdue because of the sweltering heat from this summer. Rediscovering things in your wardrobe can be such a rewarding experience especially when you realize you were right when you said, "I WILL TOTALLY WEAR THIS ALL THE TIME". Looking through my collection I came across pieces I used to style a past project. I am surprised I never posted this shoot. This was another collaboration I did with Anthony Deeying during a visit to New York. It is strange to think that we did this together a year ago, and now I live here. The model Jon Paul (FORD) was such a sport and really knew how to move, producing amazing shots considering the freezing cold. I love a good night shoot in Central Park!

Outerwear pieces by Burberry Prorsum, Alexander Wang, and Alexander McQueen

- jerome

Street Fighter C'est Chic

Chun-Li wears Chanel Pre-Fall 2010. Cammy wears Burberry Prorsum Fall/Winter 2010.
There was a "Living Single" marathon on, which pretty much decided that I was staying in on this fine Friday evening. After making dinner and cleaning house, I decided to use my free time in a productive way. Here are some sketches I did this evening. I had this idea a few seasons ago to outfit some of my favorite Street Fighter girls in runway looks befitting of their characters. When I configure my scanner (it was a hand-me-down, let's hope it works), I will put up actual scans and possibly color them in. They turned out pretty cute I think! It feels good to be drawing again - it's like therapy.

- jerome

Check It Out

Burberry Muffler, Schott Motorcycle Jacket, Blood is the New Black Tee, J.Crew Khakis, COS Boots
Happy New Year! 2011 was a major trip, but I am beyond excited for 2012 as long as it isn't the end of the world. There is so much happening this year already. The first fitting for my brother's wedding took place yesterday, I am starting to pack for my vacation, and there is a new set of frames being fitted with my prescription. Blog time has been cut down drastically, but my New Year's resolution is to allow myself more creative time. We will see how well this plays out given the move to New York!


I've had this check wool motorcycle jacket for a while now. It has kept me warm and toasty this winter season. The classic ivy league colors used to make Schott's Perfecto silhouette is a match for my wardrobe. Plaids have never been my favorite print, but I've recently acquired some pieces. Another is this Giant Check Cashmere Muffler from Burberry. It is extra long and wide and made from the softest fibers. I recommend getting your hands on one before the winter ends!!

- jerome

Is That What the Doctor Ordered?

Dr. Martens AW2011 Campaign
Aggy and Ash star in Dr. Martens' Fall 2011 Campaign. The rude boy styling is pretty sweet, and I think it is time to get some white socks again. These tasseled loafers are absolutely adorable! You know me, anything with tassels and a kilt and I am all over it. However, there is the small predicament that they are incredibly close to the Burberry Prorsum Tasseled Loafers I already have in black and white. Dr. Martens is confusing me with more options!

Burberry Prorsum Tasseled Loafer in Clove Brown with Amber Sole $595 VS Dr. Martens Adrian Shoe in Burgundy $170
Check out these horrible pictures of two options for my next tasseled loafer. I already know that the thick gum soles are extremely comfortable on the Prorsum shoe. Dr. Martens are extremely resilient, but they are notorious for a lengthy break-in process. Is it silly to get two colors of the same shoe? I mean, my track record proves that I have no problem buying multiple colors of the same thing. Considering the fact that the Adrian is the color of a shoe I already DO have, I might already have my decision made. However, the price difference is a bit severe. #firstworldprincessproblems

- jerome

UPDATE: I WENT WITH THE BURBERRY PRORSUM LOAFERS!

Something is Missing in My Life

RIP Burberry Prorsum Barbed Wire Ring 2009-2011
Amongst a roller coaster ride of a day (literally), I am devastated by a terrible loss. Today, at Six Flags, my Burberry Prorsum Barbed Wire Ring was lost. I have worn it almost every day for almost 3 years and it is quite painful to be without it. The strange thing is that it my most secured ring, a true fit for my right pinky. Losing this treasure so dear to me is absolutely heart breaking and I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. I love you, ring, wherever you are.


When I lose something like this, I always wonder what will become of it. In this music video, Jerrica loses the earrings that allow her to become Jem. Strangely enough it is exactly what I am going through right now. Losing this ring is like losing a part of me and I have to think of where it is now. Like what happened to that huge sapphire in Titanic when Rose dropped it into the water? Unfortunately, my ring is probably covered in trash and scraps of funnel cake. I wish it a better fate, and a person worthy of wearing it.


The ring is from many seasons ago, so it is next to impossible to replace. I hope the powers that be will put one on eBay, or someone out there will see this and be able to sell me one. This one is going to take a while to heal :(

- jerome

'Till the World Ends

All clothing by Burberry Prorsum SS2011
I have been holding off on blogging this piece because it took me a while to photograph it in ways to show off my favorite parts. I am no model, and my self-timer/tri-pod had a fun time trying to get it right. My Burberry Prorsum collection continues to grow as I welcome the SS2011 Studded Jacket to my closet. First of all, this piece is heavy. It has to weigh at least 10-12 lbs. So far it has broken 3 plastic hangars! The studs are solid metal, which adds most of the weight. It is interesting because the lambskin used for the jacket is so soft and delicate, so you can really see how it is affected by the hardware. There is definitely a distressed look created by the tension that you have to see up close.


I am not quite sure when exactly I am going to wear this piece, but when I saw it on sale, I knew I wasn't going to leave the store without it. The weight of the jacket alone is unpractical, but I don't think that is the point. There is something special about it. Having a studded biker jacket feels like you are wearing armor, or something special at the very least. I feel powerful when I zip it up. Usually biker jackets have strange sleeves, or are cropped in an unflattering silhouette. The cut of this jacket is perfect and flattering. WIN.


And yes, it is the male version of the jacket Britney Spears wears in her 'Till the World Ends music video. As Britney demonstrates, I am totally equipped for clubbing in a post apocalyptic society!

- jerome

Captain Brunch

Tee by Dries Van Noten, Shorts by Carven, Belt by Hermés, Loafers by Burberry Prorsum
The summer heat of New York really solidified my love for a good pair of shorts. I had no luck at Barney's in menswear when searching for the perfect pair, but I lucked out during the summer sale some months ago. These Carven shorts are very comfortable, and the silk and cotton blend of the fabric made it great for the weather. I wish it was summer already in SF! I also got a pair of the Burberry Prorsum AW2011 Tasseled Loafers with the thick, white, rubber sole. They make me about 1.5" taller and are one of the most comfortable pairs of leather shoes I own! I am ready to brunch, y'all.

- jerome

Sheer Necessity

Mesh Polo, Gauntlet Ring and Biker Sandals by Burberry Prorsum, Khakis by J.Crew, Bracelet by Hermés

The first time I laid eyes on the Burberry Prorsum SS12 mesh polo, I knew it had to be mine. It is just enough GAY classic-meets-different to belong in my collection. The price tag was pretty steep so I had to let fate decide - wait until sale and see if it survives. Flash forward to sale season and it was SOLD OUT in my size in SF. But I am not a quitter. There was hope in a size larger, so I went for it anyway. Yes, the original fit me like a dream, but in retrospect, I am happy with the size up because I will inevitably need to wear something under the piece... though I don't plan to in New York! The color is a lovely pale, grayish olive that plays tricks in different lighting. I sometimes have this aching regret in my heart about not getting my size, but wearing something under the size up justifies my decision.

It is important to develop instincts about buying certain designer pieces. I try to weigh the pros and cons; the price and value versus the quality and mileage a piece has. This has saved me many paychecks... All of which I am going to spend in New York. So much to do before my trip! And it turns out, I will be working on an exciting project while I am there :)


- jerome

Palladium Powers

Say hello to my new piece of jewelry: The gauntlet finger cuff from Burberry Prorsum SS11. I have had this little gem for a few months now. It is pretty delicate, but I love it. The individual chevrons are linked at the edges, providing mobility in the finger of your choosing. Burberry's SS11 collection was biker inspired, which is why I was surprised about the midieval look to the ring. Like with other runway pieces, this was quite the headache to procure. Only one or two of each size were sent to flagship stores in the US (the ring is available in S, M, and L). Try your luck at the nearest Burberry Flagship.

Fringe Jacket by Jean Paul Gaultier, Gauntlet Finger Cuff Ring by Burberry Prorsum, Bracelets by Hermés
I am still stacking bracelets on the daily. Silver and Palladum have become my fetish. I love the striking luster of white hot hardware! For my birthday, my mother gifted me the Hermés Kelly Double Tour Bracelet in black. I am simply obsessed. Wearing these pieces together makes me feel like I am wearing weapons. My partner agrees, especially when I end up poking/pinching him with jewelry. Oops. WARNING: not everyone has the same anything-for-fashion attitude when it comes to sharp accessories.

- jerome

Obsession Session

Now that my 11 day stretch of working is complete, I can go ahead and decide what all that hard earned cash will be spent on. Fashion month continues to pre-drain my checking account as soon as I take a peek at the collections online. My spring wardrobe hasn't even been completed yet and I am already shopping for Fall!! I MEEAANNNN??!

Taxes and receipts Reflections on the past year tell me that 2010 was the year of Louis Vuitton and handbags. It was no secret that my obsession for leather goods grew exponentially. 2011 is shaping up to be the year of Hermés, shoes, and jewelry. Acquiring my first born Birkin set a pretty high bar, slowing down my hunger for handbags. Of course the PS1 and Céline Luggage Phantom are still on my list, but outside of the iconic essentials, my attention is now focused on shoes and jewels.

Photos via Style.com
Exhibits A and B: Burberry Prorsum Tassled Creepers and Creeper Wedges. I have the Spring Prorsum Biker sandals and have only purchased one other pair of shoes from the Spring collections (reveal coming soon). Already some funds are set aside for these runway beauties. The men's shoes are calling my name with burnished leathers, TASSLES, and a chunky/contrasting sole. The women's wedges are a smart interpretation of the creeper, and they will make me approximately 6'4"!!

Image via FEARLANPHEAR
Then there is my new found love for bracelets. Hermés helped me over come my anything-on-my-wrists phobia. I am still really specific as to what can go on my wrists, but it is a start. Kate Lanphear has always served as an inspiration to me. Not only is she Senior Style Editor for US Elle, but her style is authentic and original. The picture above pretty much sums up why I worship her: Preppy elements, check. T-shirt peplum, check. Hermés Collier de Chien, check. High androgyny, check. You know how something just doesn't feel right if you forget to put on all your rings before leaving the house?? Wrists-feeling-naked is the new fingers-feeling-naked.


- jerome

Target Acquired: Burberry Prorsum Biker Sandal

Shirt by Robert Gellar, Bracelets by Hermés, Khakis by J.Crew, Biker Sandals by Burberry Prorsum
I love a good gladiator sandal. Before you go judging me about it, I promise I have never worn them with tights (unless those tights were topped with a pair of shorts in an appropriate length a la Tisci), and I am quite selective. My current inventory includes Juun.J and Marséll. My newest precious is the Burberry Prorsum Biker Sandal from the SS2010 Collection.


I love the shape, color, and hardware to this sandal despite its close resemblance to the Birkenstock. The layered straps create interest when pants cover the ankle straps, and the grommets are a subtle detail that makes all the difference. At first I was put off by the suede tongue, but now I am in love with the texture. The cork sole is comfortable and refreshing for my footwear collection. Note that there are three versions available in the collection. One option is a "low top" version of the sandal I have that has a leather tongue. Then there is a sandal with a zipper tongue lined with grommeted eyelets and a double ankle strap. The former looked awkward just covering my feet and the latter was way too gay too busy. Check out these styles on Luisa Via Roma. I purchased my sandals at the Burberry flagship here in San Francisco, which oddly enough are the only style not available on the site. If you are interested, inquire quickly. The buy for Burberry Prorsum in general is quite narrow, and I have it on good authority that most stores (if they are lucky enough to get the sandals) receive only one pair in each size.


- jerome

Burberry for Interview Magazine

HOLY DELICIOUSNESS

Check out the August issue of Interview for a, uh, interview with Christopher Bailey. London's Burberry's wunderkind (wait, he's 39?!!) naturally stays on topic with his brand's vision and current events but manages to answer questions truthfully and respectfully, and always with such gracious humility. Read the interview here. And it is legit if you ask me, I met him!!

But how lush are these photos! Stylist Karl Templer plays with the many textures of Burberry Prorsum's A/W 2010 collection, layering shearling atop heavy wool topcoats. BRILLIANT. Craig McDean photographs these luxurious pieces, bringing a dark and smoldering aura to Bailey's creations.



"I live with my eyes open. I never try to force myself to be inspired. I’m not someone who feels that they have to go to a foreign country or another culture to look for inspiration. Without sounding like a ponce, I think life is such a journey that you’re kind of discovering things the whole time. When you’re conscious of that and you don’t take it for granted, and when you meet new people and see beautiful things and get to travel the way we do in this industry, you can be constantly inspired. The trick is to recognize that and keep a little bank of impressions in your head. And who knows when they are going to pop out for you. But I never look for inspiration. When you start to say, “Okay, now I’ve got to think of something for the next collection,” it never works. You end up being blocked." - Christopher Bailey



- jerome