Blue Period

Scott Campbell Tattoo Stole in Bleu by Louis Vuitton, Navy Wallet on a Chain by Chanel, Custom Navy Pentagram Harness by Zana Bayne Leather, 35cm Bleu de Malte Clemence Birkin and Indigo Suede Collier de Chien by Hermés
I am going through my blue period. Blue has always been one of my favorite colors. It reminds me of the sky and the sea, calm and clarity. A deep, rich shade of blue is bewitching - especially in leather. Here are a few of my true blue darlings displayed on a wooden deer head and gold leaf console from Shotwell SF. If you have kept up with me thus far, all but one of these treasures should already look familiar. Welcome to the family the Chanel Wallet on a Chain. It is the cutest, handiest little bag. Inside, the elegant clutch is lined with navy grosgrain ribbon and comes equipped with 6 card slots, 2 pockets, and 2 zippered pouches. On the outside, the luxurious caviar lambskin leather is decorated with silver double C's and a convenient pocket on the back, hanging on a silver chain that is laced with more leather. Originally I bought the bag to serve as a crossbody, but when I tuck the chain away it becomes an awesome clutch. The size is functional and fits all the essentials. I am still on the fence about getting one of the classic 2.55 bags because it is too feminine for my style. Not that this Wallet on a Chain is the butchest thing I own, but it still compliments my wardrobe. It is the perfect first Chanel for me!

Blue is a color I really connect with. I wonder if there are any colors that just sing to you?

- 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

Brace Yourself Part 2

Top by Zara, Pants by Uniqlo, Shoes by Whoop-de-Doo, Cuff by Hermés, D Buckle Belt by Dior Homme, Low Brace Belt by Zana Bayne Leather AW2011

Another one of my obsessions is this top by Zara. It is a blatant rip off from Céline by Phoebe Philo, but since I did not have access to the real collection, this is an adequate substitute. It moves really well! The front tuck is an excellent way to wear it, especially when you pair it with a good statement belt. Here you can see another way to wear the Zana Bayne Low Brace Harness. The straps simulate suspenders and I love how it looks layered with another functioning belt.

Flowy top + Leather Harness + Stacked Heel = FEELING POWERFUL

- jerome

Brace Yourself

Plain White Tee by Adam Kimmel, Camouflage Cargo Pants by Uniqlo, Boots by COS, Low Brace Harness by Zana Bayne AW2011

BOOM. Instant man peplum. Behold the Low Brace Harness/Belt from Zana Bayne Leather AW2011. This is an amazing new accessory to add to my collection. When fastened, you can really define your waist or change the silhouette of your ensemble. The Low Brace also looks like an oversized basic harness, which moves beautifully when you're in motion.



I am pretty obsessed with these Camouflage Cargo pants from Uniqlo. I mean, they are designed to slim the leg. What really surprises me is the fact that they are camouflage and cargo, yet totally awesome. Uniqlo is the best. I have to go back to New York or Tokyo or Hong Kong and stock up on more goods!!

- jerome

Funny Grandma, Dick

Here is a video of Barbara Streisand in 1975. This is simply the best performance of this song, and it will never be sung like that ever again. I loved the smokiness of the 1970s and the attempted revival of art nouveau (or is that misty, watercolor VHS tracking?). But then there was also the whole moomoo period too. You can see B give a fatty "NAMASTE" to the crowd before she kills her own song. I happen to like this particular gown though. It reminds me of something Galliano would have designed for Dior haute couture, minus a head piece, crazy make up, and some ankle breaking heels . I must have posted this video in different places dozens of times, but I still cannot get over how perfect her profile is. GAY GAY GAY GAY GAY.

- jerome

Welcome to the Dungeon

Button down by Prada, Cuff by Hermés, Denim by Uniqlo, Pentagram Harness by Zana Bayne

Whilst vacationing in New York, I paid a visit to the studio of my dear friend Zana Bayne. Her leather fashion happens to be garnering a lot of attention these days and I could not be prouder! I wanted to preview her Fall 2011 collection, pull for my photo shoot, and shop. Upon entering, I was met with racks of harnesses, rolls of hyde, and the fragrant smell of leather. It was incredible to see the volume of product that she produces in her studio. There are certain samples being packed and readied for some impressive names in the business. One couldn't possibly resist placing a few orders! Above is a custom Pentagram harness that Zana made for me. It is the only one she has ever made in navy. Each strip of leather is delicately finished with painted sides, showing the quality and craftsmanship in her hand-made pieces. I feel so special!!



So that is where all the BLACK magic happens. Zana's space is such an inspiration. She has such a good idea of who she is as an artist and designer, but I know that she will always have this ability to grow and evolve in the best possible ways. I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next! I left New York with the navy Pentagram harness and two other pieces from her upcoming AW2011 collection, including the Hex harness from the last post, and the new Low Brace harness/belt that I will show you in my next post.

Until then, LEATHER UP. FEEL THE POWER.

- jerome