All in the Family

Here is the legendary mother Jerry Hall and her gorgeous offspring Georgia-May Jagger in the latest campaign for H&M. I am forever in love with Jerry's glamor, and it is no surprise her looks would be passed on to Georgia-May. Flawless, unique, blond bombshell beauty - true signs of rock royalty.

Speaking of H&M, the launch for the Versace collaboration is only a week away. There are a few pieces that I want but I am reluctant to wait in line and join the madness this year. It was different for Comme des Garçons and Lanvin because those menswear pieces were timeless and seasonless. Versace is anything but subtle. I feel like you must be cautious when selecting from this season's limited editions. If you show up to a party wearing a turquoise palm tree print shirt, there is a huge chance some other queen will too, and no one will NOT notice.

- jerome

I'm Still In Love

Céline Spring 2011
Que The Stills' "Still in Love Song." The Céline SS2011 Foulard Print Blouse is one of those iconic pieces that I regret not being on top of while it was (rarely) in stores. I came close to acquiring a piece of that collection in New York during Bergdorf's annual sale. But there was only a geometric skirt left, and there was no way to adapt it to my wardrobe. I need to have one of the tops! And don't even get me started on the bottoms... The Foulard Blouse in emerald green was just made available on eBay... someone please BUY IT BEFORE I DO.


I mean, there is no other way to say it other than it is a $2,000 blouse. But I need it! This is going to be a stressful bidding period. Or someone please make me a cool alternative! #firstworldproblems

- jerome

Target Acquired: Hermès 40cm Clemence Noir Birkin Bag

For my 25th Birthday, I finally got the beautiful black Birkin of my dreams. It really is the most amazing bag in the world: timeless, unparalleled quality in materials, and iconic. The 40cm in black was always my dream Birkin, but for the longest time I lusted after the Togo leather with gold hardware. I suppose fate wanted me to see my options first. After spending much time with my first born (The 35cm Clemence Bleu de Malte), I fell in love with the versatility of the Palladium hardware and the soft hand and drape of the Clemence leather. A 40cm Birkin made in Clemence, when empty, folds onto itself like it has been well traveled. Fill it with your belongings, and it has all the structure of a Togo bag. It is the perfect balance!!

Thank goodness I waited, thank my parents for putting an end to the madness, and thank JESUS the perfect bag was in stock for my birthday. Lady luck was on my side, and it is already shaping up to be a wonderful year!! I am sorry it took so long to post a picture haha

- Jerome

Baby I Was Born This May

May is birthday month. Let's get this party started.
Every year I ceremoniously plot out the entire month of May into segmented shopping trips in celebration of my birth. In an effort not to lose all of my friends seem like a brat drain all of my hard earned money in 31 days, I need to make lists of things I can splurge on for my birthday. Unfortunately I've recently developed a pretty severe Hermés addiction and clearly my list has got to be short to celebrate my 25 years.

1. The One, The Only, The Birkin Bag
I do love my Birkin. My 35cm Bleu de Malte clemence bag is like a child to me. I worked very hard to pay for it in full - all by myself. One day I will have one in black, gold, and taupe. This would be one hell of a birthday gift, but this IS my quarter life crisis we are talking about here. The clemence leahter of my Birkin is divine, but I also want to have the structure of a togo bag. I would love a 40cm, but the 35cm has proven to be a trusted and practical size. Birkins are something to collect over time :)


2. The Collier de Chien in Exotic Skin
My left wrist has sported a CDC everyday since I first acquired one months ago. I currently have 2 in suede and 1 in leather. An exotic skin CDC would be amazing, and a more reasonable and "practical" birthday present to myself. I had the pleasure of trying on a Bleu de Malte matte Alligator CDC a few days ago. Yes, it would match my Birkin, and yes I am still in disbelief of my self restraint. Hopefully it will still exist if and when I decide this is the way to go for my birthday.

3. Shoe Horn
This one is affordable and completely necessary. My poor shoes have been suffering by my laziness and hurrying ways. I have been forcing on my brogues and oxfords without untying shoelaces (am I the only one who is totally inept at loosening up shoelaces?!!). A shoe horn would fix all of this, and it would score me a beautiful orange box! There is a shorter version, but the long one allows for maximum not bending over. WIN.

Of course there are other things I want, and more important goals for me to achieve. This list wreaks of materialism, prestige, and things of this nature to the untrained eye. But I genuinely live for the heritage and craftsmanship of these beautiful things AND ONE SHOULD ALWAYS BE ALLOWED SOME SELF INDULGENCE WHEN CELEBRATING ONE'S BIRTHDAY. I will let you know how I do come the 26th. But I have already received a pretty sweet gift: Osama Bin Laden has been taken out. I am not particularly known for my patriotism, but Go Team America!! UPDATE: Celebrate only justice.

- jerome

Kate Tested, Lanphear Approved

These are things I need like RIGHT NOW right now: 1. Classic Black Biker Jacket 2. More jewels 3. Burberry Prorsum Creeper Platforms

The search for the perfect leather jacket continues with the classic biker. My current loyal black leather jacket is a little too big for me and not quite the right silhouette for my style mood. I love it dearly and trust it completely, but it is time for a new love. Also, I need more bracelets to accompany my CDCs and leather wraps, preferably in stud r spike form. I am not sure if Kate has the AW2011 platforms, but I am betting she will be one of the first to be seen wearing them. There are creepers with tassels in both the mens and womens Prorsum collections too.


Speaking of tassels, Ms. Lanphear wouldn't wear these but the tassel overload kind of makes me in dire need of them. I am not a huge fan of metallic shoes on me, but the triple tassel wings are calling my name. This particular pair is from Spring 2010 so I am back to trolling eBay. Keep an eye out, y'all!

- jerome

Target Acquired: Hermès Black Collier De Chien Homme with Palladium Hardware

Collier De Chien by Hermés
I finally obtained one of the sacred pieces in any Hermés collection: the black CDC with Palladium hardware. It is a true beauty with unparalleled quality and craftsmanship. The leather is smooth and soft, and the gorgeous Palladium shines brightly. It is a flawless piece and I am happy to add it to the family. This is technically the CDC Homme, part of the men's jewelry collection. However, there is absolutely no difference in size when compared to the women's version. In fact, based on the past couple of days of wearing it, the CDC Homme may even be a little tighter on the wrist. This may have something to do with the leather. My suede CDCs have both stretched out a little so that they sit comfortably on my wrist using the notch of my choosing. The black calf leather of the CDC Homme is not stretching as easily. Luckily I have dainty woman wrists it still fits me quite well. I was informed by the buyer of Hermés San Francisco that all of the mens leather jewelry is black with silver hardware.

The black CDC is very difficult to find brand new in stores. I have considered purchasing it through eBay, but I was worried about the condition of the item, and its authenticity, etc. There are some that look legit, but I feel this is the sort of item you should buy new. Some of the CDCs I saw had loose rings and unsightly scratches and bends. A CDC is a leather piece that stretches to your body and changes color according to your lifestyle. It is a personal thing. I am glad to have waited for a new one, stamped with an "N" for the latest craftsmen series.

I am in love with the Collier De Chien. It is really a beautifully designed piece of jewelry. My luck with the color selection at my local store has been fantastic, but I really struck it big with the black and silver ONLINE. That's right, this rare gem was made available on the website for a few days. I think the fact that it was specifically labeled as a men's piece deterred many women from buying it, giving me more time to collect enough funds. Don't worry if you missed your chance. I am guessing that many people (myself included) thought that the CDC Homme was going to fit a larger wrist, so check with your local store for any returns. The CDC Homme is also part of the Spring buy for flagship stores.

Now all that is left to get are the red suede, crocodile, lizard, and full silver CDCs. But if I get a Birkin with gold hardware... Yikes.


- jerome

Can't Get You Out of My Head

3.1 Phillip Lim Spring 2011 Shoes
A few days ago a friend of mine posted a picture of his new Phillip Lim shoes. Gasping with envy I made it my mission to track down a pair, but due to my ignorance I failed to realize what season the shoe was from. I mean, how am I supposed to get a pair of RUNWAY SAMPLES?? Good thing this spring, Lim has brought back the tassel motif. The shape of these boots are perfect. My favorites are the monk strap shoes. Looks like I have to keep eating cup-of-noodles for dinner my work cut out for me.


- jerome

Christmas is Coming

I LOVE SHOPPING.

These are a few of the Christmas presents I have finished wrapping. I am pretty proud of them, actually. Even if it is not for me, I genuinely love shopping. Walking through beautiful stores and picking out presents for the ones you love is always fun. Except for the SHITSHOW holiday season. This is the second time I have been on the other side of the retail relationship, and I must say that people are mean. But I keep pulling through because of my severe Hermès addiction. I am literally unable to walk into an Hermès without leaving with an orange box. My last trip was during my lunch break, and I successfully resisted because there was a $40K Bleu de Malte Crocodile Birkin. It was the last one in the world, and after considering selling my car for it (just kidding - kind of - because it would not be enough anyway... what about a kidney??) I thought it was getting a little ridiculous.


Orange is the new red and green. Hermès obsession aside, I have been getting back into styling projects. It has been a while since I have been able to collaborate with someone in a creative way, so getting back in the studio has been a great blessing during this stressful season. Again, I apologize for not keeping up with regular posts. It has been a hectic few weeks and it will only get worse. I can tell you that my website will be getting a major makeover and new content will be uploaded as these exciting new projects unfold. Stay tuned!!

Thanks for sticking by me. Happy Holidays, everyone!

- jerome

Friends Make Everything Better

HOLY WINTER WEIGHT, BATMAN!!

I feel like I have been gaining weight. Due to the stressful holiday shopping season (professionally and personally), I have been indulging in fatty Filipino festive food in the little time I have to eat. Needless to say gym time has been cut down to zero. Good thing I have friends who like to splurge at Hermès and eat baked goods with me to lift the spirit. This scenario embodies what I go through on a day to day basis:



While shopping today, I barely missed the Kardashians at Barneys. They were in town to discuss their new licensing venture with Sears (yeah, yet ANOTHER BRANDING SCHEME. When bebe drops you, throw in the towel). In a solid attempt to try and catch a glimpse of the reality stars, my friend and I went to the Hermès store. We had to go anyway, and it was a logical store to check for the Kardashians, who famously just spent $100K on Birkins and such last month. No such luck with the celebrities, but I do have my gift picked out! 2010 was obviously the year of Louis Vuitton for me. What can I say? I'm a late bloomer. But after our trip to the store, I know it will be an Orange Christmas for my friend - who coined the term - and an Orange rest of my life 2011 for the both of us!

- jerome

Target Acquired: Hermès 35cm Bleu de Malte Clemence Birkin

I feel like an adult now.
Trench by Burberry Prorsum, Trousers and Shirt by Comme des Garçons X H&M, Jumper by Zara, Shoes by Whoop-De-Doo, Handbag by Hermès

Behold, my very own (first, but not last!) Birkin bag. Having it in my collection is a big deal. Buying it myself with my own money is a milestone. I always knew I would come to own one, but never did I imagine it would come to me by fate. The story begins with a random work schedule assignment. By some stroke of luck I was allotted a Saturday off last week. Saturdays are rarely given to anyone who works in retail. This is because normal people most customers shop on the weekends. I gladly accepted because 'tis the season and I wanted a break within the busiest shopping time of the year. My dear friend Anthony wanted to stop by Hermès for his birthday so I gladly came along. We were not expecting what was about to occur next.

I originally planned to buy a ring. After selecting, sizing, and measuring we made our way to the front of the store to look at scarves for Anthony. Suddenly a woman purchased a bag in the center display, and out comes the sales associate with a new bag to fill the void: a brand new 35cm Bleu De Malt Birkin in Clemence leather with silver palladium hardware. It came straight from Paris, directly from the stockroom via late delivery, and into my eager hands. This bag had never been on display, meaning I am the only customer to ever handle it. When I took it into my arms I knew... the size, color, and leather were everything I wanted in a Birkin. Sure enough the women were flocking toward the icon, but it was too late for them. Fate had visited me that day. Quickly I ran to the bank to call upon the Birkin Fund while Anthony guarded the bag.


A 40cm Togo Birkin seems ideal for guys, but every time I would carry my friends' it felt large. I like my day bags big, but not luggage sized - especially since the bag is a top handle carry with no cross body strap. Togo leather on a Birkin is beautiful, but the structure and consistent "newness" did not feel right whenever I tried it on. I get that the Togo is scratch resistant and hard wearing, but for my first I wanted a more precious skin. The Clemence leather of MY Birkin is absolutely perfect for me. It is softer, drapes beautifully while maintaining structure, and is the perfect weight and softness to compliment my lifestyle. When you touch the skin, you can feel immediately why Hermès is known for their leathers. The color, Bleu de Malte, is one of the newest hues of blue in the Hermès palette. It has a rich, royal color that has a tendency to play tricks in different lighting.



This is the holy grail of bags and with hard work I bought one, and with good luck I got an amazing color/leather/hardware combination. I am in love. I joked that my family will be stoked that I can shut up about this bag now, but I realized that the fever has set in; I want everything in Hermès! And the obsession continues with the gold and black Birkins... One day :)


- jerome

Target Acquired: Louis Vuitton Monogram Stars Stole in Marine

Missing out on limited edition pieces can cause serious heartache. The endless online searching and sleepless nights can get to you, when finally sleep deprivation and anxiety have you considering paying A LOT of dough for such a rare piece. This was the case for my latest acquisition, the Louis Vuitton Monogram Stars Stole in Marine. Print was something I started experimenting with in clothing early last year but it has always been a favorite of mine when it comes to accessories, particularly scarves. A shemagh (Middle Eastern peace scarves) was often part of my everyday attire. But when I first saw the Monogram Stars stole, I knew I had to have it. Unfortunately I discovered the limited piece half way around the world whilst reading a fashion magazine a month old. Needless to say the stole was sold out before I even knew I couldn't live without it.

Here comes the obsessive behavior. For about a year I trolled the Internet, searching and searching for the stole with no avail. It became something to search for every time I was on eBay and I am on eBay everyday hunting for gems like these. I randomly came across the stole on a website for second-hand luxury handbags. The asking price was one helluva mark up at 3 times the original retail value. My heart dropped. This was it, my chance!! My intuition paralyzed my mouse button so I could step back and think about the bill. I would be buying a used stole that was rare, yes, but obviously priced at a ridiculous amount because the seller knows just how much I needed this goddamn accessory. I don't let anyone take advantage of me, so I closed that window.

Luckily I am not a quitter and searched for the stole on eBay approximately 15 minutes later. It was listed at the retail price, brand new with tags/box/duster/original receipt, AND free shipping. Lady luck shined upon me that day. MIRACLES HAPPEN.

Photos by Anthony Deeying
RED, WHITE, AND BLUE AND OTHER BLUE
This stole is a true beauty and worth every penny. It is a linen/silk blend, which makes it breathable while providing unbeatable temperature control for all seasons in San Francisco. Graphically, the stole is pretty epic. The blocks of cherry, cream, and navy ripple throughout the piece with just a hint of cerulean peeking at the side. The nautical stars add depth, appearing in two hues of golden yellow. They also add a touch of art nouveau (my favorite art style) and Americana (my current style inspiration). These stars also make the stole resemble both the American flag and the Filipino flag, which is red, white, and blue with golden stars. I am starting to think this thing was actually made just for me. The rich colors fly gorgeously as the stole moves like liquid in the Autumn wind. I am sooo gay for this stole. I wore it today with a denim shirt and jeans from Uniqlo, Pleasure Principle Tee, Alfredo Bannister boots, and my Louis Vuitton Sofia Coppola bag.

The LV thing is getting a little ridiculous. Thank goodness the SC is not brand heavy and the LV Monogram is seen only at the end of the stole. Contrary to popular belief, the scarf is not double sided. The stars fade into the monogram at the very end of one side as shown in the press pictures. It is funny how one post on HypeBeast can mislead so many people!! I am so satisfied with this stole and will continue to search for it's sister in Blue ;)

- jerome

This Could be the Week...

Tommy Ton's photos on JAK&JIL

I have been waiting and praying for Barney's to re-stock the elusive Céline luggage tote and box clutch in the colors I desire. Look how well they go with the Sofia!! Leopard too, which would be perfect with the sneakers I just ordered. Good thing pay day is on Friday or else I might not even be able to get it if it arrives. Heaven help me if the PS1 in smoke finally comes as well.

I have been stress shopping, but simultaneously cleaning out my closet. It is clear to me that my bank account cannot survive much more of this, so I have vowed to keep shopping to a minimum until the holiday sales. But these bags have been on the brain for too long...

A closet cleanse is a great way to make room for new items, make money from selling, and/or more importantly re-evaluate your taste. I enjoy discovering old things that compliment my newer garments. Let's see where 2011 will take me.


- jerome

It's Morphin' Time!

Meet two new lovely additions to my closet: Burberry's Britton Trench in Honey Gabardine and Prorsum Coin Belt. I am going through a Louis Vuitton and Burberry phase because I am hella asian, but I figure if you are going to be obsessed with luggage and trench coats, lusting for the original isn't so bad.

Britton Trench and Prorsum Coin Belt by Burberry, Denim by Uniqlo, Vintage Boots, and Trench 46 (below) by Burberry
This trench coat is a shorter version of one I already own. The set-in sleeve makes the coat more casual, slim fit, and versatile when compared to my first Burberry Gabardine trench. See how this short version is more youthful/modern than the standard trench length you usually see on older types. Burberry's recent runway shows have had a strong military element that incorporates a belt in almost every look. This is my favorite belt from Spring 2010, and I am happy that it goes well with the beige color I have been obsessing over this season. It looks like the morphing devices from Power Rangers, but remember that the design is inspired by hunting ammunition belts.


Back to my first love, the Trench 46. I have lost weight since I bought it so it is one size big, which is a shame since the cut of the coat is fuller to begin with. Anyway, see how the belt updates the coat and tailors the shape to my body. The raglan sleeve (sewn into the neck) allows for more room in the shoulder to wear a suit jacket or heavy sweater comfortably underneath. This will be useful for the future if I gain a ton when I'm older ever move to a colder place. Thanks to global warming, it may start snowing here... I cannot believe my trench coats are useful in July. SUMMER FAIL.


- jerome

Target Acquired: Louis Vuitton Sofia Coppola Bag

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME. I remember the first time I held the Sofia Coppola Bag; I was shopping in Hong Kong and was immediately drawn to the deep red of the SC bag's Jasper calf leather. The buttery, supple skin was nothing like I had ever felt. Thus, my real obsession for bags began.

Flash forward almost a year and I had a job, saved enough for 2 collection bags, and still the SC bag was out of my budget. Months of research and visits proved to me that the bag was next level. It is so exclusive, only a handful of stores in the US are even allowed to sell the bag (go SF!!) and it comes with a book that describes the collaboration. I had plenty of time to think about which one I would own. The Cobalt is a rich shade of blue and the Asphalt suede sings of luxury, but the Jasper is a red that embodies love at first sight. From the first time I held it, my decision was already made. To my surprise, luck, and gratitude, my mother had developed her ALLASIANSLOVELOUISVUITTON bag gene around the same time I did. She began to shop at LV all by herself, and knew that I was a little insane but had some sympathy for my obsession. Thus, my parents granted me a large birthday wish and the SC bag in Jasper became mine.

I began using the SC after the rain let up. It fits my daily essentials and whatever else I may need to bring from time to time. The handles are silky smooth to the touch, allowing for unbelievable comfort when holding it. The shoulder strap is an added bonus and convenience since I love the classic style and look of top handles anyway. Asphalt suede lines the inside of the bag with a patch and zippered pocket for organization. A covered lock and key bell accent the bag, adding security and subtle refinement reserved for those with a discerning eye. This is the only Louis Vuitton item I own that is made in Italy (everything else is made in France). In other less eloquent words, THIS BAG IS THE SHIT.


Thank you all for your votes!! I love and appreciate the others, but the Jasper is just my soul mate. It is the PERFECT day bag just as Sofia Coppola intended, and the only way to top it would be with a Birkin. Except for the PS1 I think I can cool it with the bags now, specifically Louis Vuitton. A full report of my birthday loot will come soon, when they arrive in the mail!! Besides, it is still technically birthday month, and summer sales have begun :)


- jerome

The Obsession Continues

It is safe to say that I got almost everything I wanted from Louis Vuitton in SS10; so much so that people probably think I'm a total F.O.B. when really the design of Monogram Eden and the shape of the bags really spoke to me this season. But as I have written before, the Eden flat bag continues to haunt me. Fashion editor Paolo Turina reminds me why I fell in love with color and patterns again, and why I simply cannot let go of this obsession. What? Too gay? Ishi photographs Bruna Tenorio in a stunning editorial for Amica.

Photos from Fashion Gone Rogue


- jerome

Target Acquired: Louis Vuitton Monogram Eden Khaki Néo and Rainbow Bag Charm

How I (used to) spend my free time, whispering "I WILL SAVE YOU."
There are moments when you realize you simply cannot live without that special something. After purchasing my Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Néo, I was extremely happy. It is the perfect bag in terms of size, shape, and color. It is one of those pieces I can use every day (when it isn't raining), and it will last forever. But every time I thought of my first love, the Monogram Eden Khaki Néo, there was a deep aching in my heart.

The obsession never ceased. From the moment I saw it on the runway, I knew the Monogram Eden Néo was to be mine... until I was forced to choose between two perfections. It was a Sophie's Choice situation, and I went with the "practical" Monogram Canvas. I was so happy, but I knew something was still missing. I would get butterflies as I saw the Eden Néo in passing, and I was losing so much sleep thinking about the royal metallic colors and ultra supple lambskin. I do not regret buying the Monogram Canvas bag in the least, and I am proud to say I saved enough to get all my favorite accessories from Louis Vuitton's Spring/Summer 2010 collection.


Not everyone will understand how anyone could ever spend so much on a handbag. To be honest, I cannot waste my time on why other people love, hate, or disagree with this bag; I can only express why I love this new addition to my collection. First of all, the model itself is already tried and true, as the Monogram Canvas Néo has served me well without fail for as long as I have had it. Also, the color is a unique shade of green that speaks to me. The Khaki brings a sparkle to my eye, and will age beautifully as the calf leather begins to develop a darker patina. This is my favorite color from the Eden collection which, in itself, is absolutely inspired. The Eden collection is a salute to the beauty of the nature found in the urban jungle. I am a city boy for sure, but I love to escape using the beauty of the world around us. The concept is relevant to me and as precious as the bag itself. The craftsmanship that goes into the Eden collection is exquisite. Lambskin bags are ultra-luxurious goods to begin with but when you discover that each ribbon of metallic Monogram Canvas is individually cut, aligned, set, and sewn on each of the Eden bags, they become works of art. The look is completely different from the original indestructible Monogram Canvas with its own unique charm. Why didn't I realize it before? Having these two bags is just like having more than one Speedy: with each different Canvas or Epi, there is a completely new bag to fall for with the same charm and function.


Speaking of charms, I went for broke and purchased the Rainbow Bag charm as well. It is one of the defining icons of the collection. You have to see how the tassels sway, flowing like the golden locks of Alphonse Mucha's flower maidens. And do not even get me started on the sound the tassels make... it is like satisfaction with each step. The luggage tag I bought previously has been hot stamped in gold with my initials, like icing on a very expensive cake. And as my best gay put it, "I kind of want to lick... eat this bag."



Never did I imagine I would be able to own both of these bags. HAPPY EARLY BIRTHDAY TO ME!! All the blood, sweat, and tears of a retail day job DOES pay off. She works hard for the money handbags. My next task is to recreate the red fox tail that never went into production... and SAVE EVERY PAYCHECK FROM NOW UNTIL my actual birthday ETERNITY TO PAY FOR THIS BABY.

Call me Asian. I am. Call it an old Russian lady's bag. Well, razreshitie predstaveet babushka. I LOVE IT!! I couldn't be happier, now I can shut up about it :)

INVEST IN HAPPINESS


- jerome

Don't Worry, I'll Catch You

Hanne Gaby Odiele by Lina Scheynius for Numéro Korea
And after months of wishing, and hoping, and thinking, and praying, making the Louis Vuitton Néo Bag in Khaki part of my life is in the foreseeable future. The obsession has led to many sleepless nights and selling my own children pieces from my wardrobe... and apparently this bag has me quoting The Get Up Kids now. All of the restlessness is about to come to end. Stay tuned!!

- jerome