Lanvin x H&M x Jerome Gettin' Cray Cray

All clothing by Lanvin X H&M, Shoes by Lanvin

So finally the big reveal. I guess everyone in the fashion world besides those who don't look at price tags or get big name swag went bonkers for the Lanvin X H&M collaboration. Let's begin with the epic tale on how I scored me some limited lax-luxury lovin'. It starts with a wishlist. My beloved friend and I rendezvoused at my place to go over the top items we were after. I had my hands tied with my work schedule and birthdays and family stuff so my friend was going to take one for the team and wait in line as he had planned anyway. He planned to come to my place to get my list and money, wake up early, and wait in line at 3:00 AM for the best selection. He came over but then we got distracted by my new platform boots and shoe talk, I forgot to give him my money, and he left his phone in my car. FAIL. To top it all off, people had began waiting in line at 8:00 PM so he threw in the towel. EPIC FAIL.

No big deal, right? The peacoat he couldn't live without was just another thing from H&M. The suit I wanted was still H&M. Whatever, right? The morning of the frenzy I stopped by just to see the battle royale. By some stroke of luck I walked in and within 5 minutes of trolling around the suit in my size was placed in my hand. I took a step back and the trousers came with me but sadly the jacket was in the hands of a fierce looking Korean boy. It was clear that he was one of the 8:00-ers, and crystal who was leaving with the suit. Defeat eclipsed my heart after the thrill of the hunt seduced me. I am a very competitive person, and had to have a piece of this collection.


Fast forward to my lunch break and my look of desperation hidden behind large, crooked sunglasses at the doors of a still-bustling H&M. Round 2. I don't know how it happened but I turned the corner and there was the coat in my friend's size! It was big a mistake to try it on - I fell in love with the gorgeous wool coat instantly. The brass buttons and flawless cut compliment a surprisingly because it's H&M high quality piece. Oops. After puppy dog eyes from my bestie, some soul and eBay searching, I had surrendered the coat to him. Anyway, I was able to find the coat online for only $50.00 USD more (including shipping and sales tax), and what is that amongst friends??


The following days after the launch I visited H&M when I had time to try my luck at some returns. I was able to score the shirt and the knit drawstring trousers, but still no luck with the suit (it may have to be an eBay purchase). If you did not get a chance to score any goods from the collection, I suggest you stop by your nearest flagship before eBay. People are returning many things like shoes and suits after buying whatever they could get their hands on without trying stuff on. And if you are after the womenswear, try extra hard. There were some gorgeous dresses!! The only caveat is everyone will be wearing them to that New Year's party you were planning on show off at.

The packaging is incredible. Shopping bags are a long time obsession of mine, and these illustrated bags with ribbon handles are an amazing addition. The hangars are adorable and the silk screened garment bags are so charming!! They really pulled out all the stops. I am pleasantly surprised with the merchandise. Lately H&M has been disappointing with the quality and cut of their clothing, especially in the mens departments. They must have put everything into the collaboration because these duds are sweet. Good luck hunting for what you wanted :)


- jerome

Star Shirts - The Obsession Continues...

Capsule Collection Images from The Fashion Spot
I am not so sure where my recent obsession with stars comes from. My black and white button down and Louis Vuitton scarf piece tell me that I find star shapes to be an attractive graphic element. This capsule collection from Christoper Kane might be taking things to another level. Behold this lovely resort 2011 collection including shocking nebula prints. These cosmic graphics are images taken by the Hubble telescope, blown up to create all-over printed garments as seen in the womenswear collection.

Photos from Interview Mag

Kane is known for these large prints after his success with the Gorilla and Floral series. I myself find nebulae to be fascinating and beautiful and I cannot wait for these babies to drop. See how layering the prints creates movement and interest to an already obvious statement. Dramatic visuals next to simple saturated garments has a great affect when broken up with the skin showing on the neck, arms, or legs. Bravo!!

Even though this is a resort collection, I am pretty sure these clothes would work for A/W because of the color palette. The nebula prints showcase a gorgeous spectrum of jewel tones which I find romantic and always appropriate for the colder months. Another mystery. Perhaps my affinity for this palette stems from the following music video seen at least once a month on YouTube during my childhood.



Sup, BAMBI??!


- jerome

Wide Leg Ways

Blazer and Sailing Shirt by Zara, Boots by Virgin Blak, Trousers by Balenciaga
So I was saving this for after Thanksgiving, and after my Lanvin x H&M reveal, but because there are other media outlets starting to take notice of this trend revival, I thought I would put in my two cents before it became a craze.

I LOVE ME SOME WIDE LEG TROUSERS. Flares even. I busted out the ol' AG Jeans and boots. There is something about a hidden leg and shoe, shrouded in a voluminous but sharp covering, that makes my heart flutter. Phoebe Philo got me interested with her play on proportions and minimalism. Pictured above are an amazing pair of trousers from Balenciaga by Nicolas Ghesquière. I was really lucky in acquiring these as they were a thrift find.

Originally the flare was about 4' wider, but because these are more of a bell-bottom and not a full wide-leg trouser, I had them taken in. Unfortunately I look like an epic whale because of the combination of lighting, angle, and pressing my tailor did not press the pants to create the shape I wanted, but I couldn't wait and had to share; time is of the essence!! I think they are still lovely with a platform boot. I am in love. More bell shapes to come!!

- jerome

The Scent of Anna Dello Russo

I am going to need a bottle of this.

- jerome

Holidays on Ice

I know this might be old news, but it is worth revisiting.
Photos from MYMODERNMET

How cool does this look?!! This lovely retail space is the fruit of the collaboration between Richard Chai and Brooklyn-based architect group Snarkitecture as part of the Building Fashion instillation series. The series pairs fashion designers with architects to produce unique, design forward retail spaces - all for the low low price of $5,000.


The glacier-like shop was created by sculpting architectural foam by hand to simulate erosion. Richard Chai's collection was housed within crevices in the design space. The instillation ran from November 21-31 in Manhattan, then foam was returned to the manufacturer to be recycled as insulation foam. It would be amazing to see something like this in San Francisco. I think instillation projects like this would be a great way to showcase design talent while making a better case for SF being a fashion city.

- jerome

Thanks, Anna

Photo by Tommy Ton on JAK&JIL
My life coach Anna Dello Russo shares her top 10 tips on dress and etiquette for Christmas parties in her latest blog entry. I love her Italian/English:

Now begins the critical period for PARTIES to celebrate CHRISTMAS. They involving not only the family and friends, as well as formal events. I'm going to remember you my 10 RULES to be always on TOP!

1. Don't wear RED or GREEN outfits. You will look alike a Christmas tree.
2. Forget any COATS (also if outside it's only 5 degrees). You should make a big impact just with your dress.
3. Choose a GOLD. You will emphasize the idea to be a Christmas GIFT to unwrap.
4. Go to the hairdresser, facial, manicure and pedicure. Don't be worry to be OVER-DONE!
5. Choose between HAT and MAKEUP, if you wear a hat keep fresh face otherwise you will looks like a transvestite.
6. Wearing lots of JEWELLERY. the sound of JEWELLERY banish bad thoughts and bad ghosts.
7. Focus on the SHOES. Generally at Christmas party you spend a lot of time seated on the sofa.
8. Shoes have to carry all the magical atmosphere of Christmas: Choose sparkling, shiny, eccentric, metallic, decorative, precious, brocade, extravagant, color-full, magnificent, enchanting... PAIR OF SHOES.
9. Don't be worry about your BAG, you immediately will forget it on some chairs.
10. Don't throw yourself on the drinks and on the food. It's not POLITE!


My personal favorites are numbers 5 and 6. The next time I make it out to Milano, I will make it a mission to party with ADR. It seems like she knows how to have a good time (while not looking like a transvestite).

- jerome

Spring Forward

Mjölk Spring Summer 2011

Photos from The Fashionisto
Mjölk's Spring collection is truly an inspiration for styling. It's a little bit hip, a lotta bit Euro, and a great example of New York street. I love the prints and these are pretty much all the colors I've been wearing lately. And SOCKS!! The top heavy silhouette may not be the newest trend on the blog, but I am glad that there are no skinny jeans. The man jegging should only be worn by emo kids hipsters butt rockers subculture stereotypes. A slim jean can really flatter, but skinny jeans really have no place in my wardrobe anymore.

- jerome

Gaysian Triad

A day of dim sum, Chinese Porcelain, and leather craftsman on Clement St. would not be complete without impromptu photoshoots.

Bringing Sexy Back

Photos from Vogue.com
Yeah, JT. We all know who did it first.Tom Ford debuts his highly anticipated womenswear collection after keeping the entire fashion world on the edge of their seats, waiting to exhale. The clothing is super sexy, the silhouettes timeless, and everything unmistakably vintage Tom Ford. Anyone who was lucky enough to attend the private launch was met with the surprise collection modeled by Liya Kebede, Laura Hutton, Beyoncé Knowles, Abbey Lee Kershaw, and Julianne Moore to name a few (those were just my personal favorites). Unfortunately, Terry Richardson was the only one allowed to take pictures that evening. For the rest of us, a recount of the night and insight to where Ford is headed is available on Vogue.com.

In the midst of a recovering recession, the luxury market seems to be doing well again. There is a rapidly growing market in Asia, and demand for luxury goods has never been higher. Perhaps Tom Ford's return to womenswear is another sign that an age of opulence is upon us... for the fashion set anyway. It seemed that all signs were pointing toward fast fashion, but I am praying that the tradition of building a lasting wardrobe has returned with the help of Tom Ford.

- 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

Star Struck

So here is a preview of my latest purchase, the Louis Vuitton Monogram Stars Stole. Thanks, eBay. I really needed this epic life win. More details and a full/much deserved post on it later. I was so happy, I am livin la vida Pelayo Diaz and did what any overly excited fashion blogger would do: GO TOPLESS. Kind of.

- jerome

You Know It's a Classic When...

Photo posted by @ProenzaSchouler via Twitter

Proenza Schouler posted a picture of the newest reincarnation of the PS1. From Mulberry to McQueen, there are so many look alikes out there that the PS1 might actually be considered a classic. This bag has functionality, keeps interest (I AM STILL WAITING FOR ONE), and has been produced in a variety of colors, textiles, and skins. But there is one finish that truly tests the makings of a classic handbag - enter: the patent PS1. I am not sure how I feel about this one yet, but flags go up when something is produced in patent leather.

Judging purely on the basis of wear, drape, and usage frequency, patent might not be the best look for a leather PS1 because such a finish cracks and peels over time, losing the "wetness" the owner fell in love with to begin with. The PS1 is an easy everyday bag that should build a beautiful patina over time, not lose its luster.


In other news, Marc Jacobs poses in drag for the latest cover of Industrie Magazine. Hope you can handle all that ferosh. If you disagree, he is MARC JACOBS and you hella aren't then take it up with Patrick Demarchelier (the guy who did all those other covers that make you not eat) and Katie Grand (the voice inside your head that says, "I NEED EVERYTHING ON THIS PAGE.").



- 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

Balenciaga by Nicolas Ghesquière Fall 2007

Blazer and Top by Zara, Khakis by J.Crew, Shoes by Whoop-De-Doo, Enamel Bangles from Shanghai
I couldn't think of a better title for this post than simply the actual collection and designer themselves. Nicolas Ghesquière's Fall 2007 collection for Balenciaga really changed my view on fashion; it might have been just as influential as Hedi Slimane's reign at Dior Homme. The elements of Ivy League and equestrian style spoke to me directly as the variety in color and texture on the runway was the kind of eclecticism I was seeing during my first years in college. Ghesquière's styling really shed light on how to wear classics in a modern way, while incorporating cultural jewelry and accessories. This may explain why I love Dries Van Noten so much too. These brilliant ad campaigns haunt me to this day as I continue my never ending search for the shoes from this collection. I was first introduced to open toe options for men through Balenciaga's menswear collection in Spring 2008 (whose footwear was influenced heavily by the womenswear Fall 2008). I kept these tear-outs from an issue of Vogue three years ago. The influence is still with me now, speaking volumes of the longevity in Ghesquière's work.



Nicolas Ghesquière is a master at making unconventional look wearable. You could imagine my heart palpitations when I saw him shopping at Prada a few weeks ago. I did not want to bother him or take pictures with my camera phone, so I merely STALKED HIM HARD CORE glanced at him through the shop window while pretending to be on a phone call. Yeah, he is definitely worth being one of those guys for. Let's take a trip down memory lane, shall we?

Balenciaga by Nicholas Ghesquiere, SS2008




I will always be looking for the sandals and the white leather jacket with the green and gold detailing in the menswear collection (up there, third from the right). I saw both on my first visit to 10 Corso Como and regret not buying them. This may be another influence on my impulsive/compulsive shopping habits... GOD BLESS THE 30 DAY RETURN POLICY.

- jerome

You Are Always On My Mind

INFLUENCE
What I'm going for right now.


1. Leopard footwear, an accessory with strong presence in a minimal ensemble. Gum soles and platform shoes for height and balance. These high-tops are by 3.1 Phillip Lim, of course.
2. Creepers for preps to bring evil to an otherwise perfectly polished look. This fit brought to you by Julie Brooke Williams for Inked Magazine.
3. The ultimate tailored minimalist look naturally compliments my current obsession with accessories. Everyone join the cult of Phoebe Philo. Styling by Alastair McKimm for Harper’s Bazaar US.

- jerome

Jeepers Creepers

Shirt by Uniqlo, Tee by 3.1 Phillip Lim, Khakis by J.Crew, Creepers by Demonia

Halloween is over, but the Day of the Dead is still on! This is a good time to finally debut my creepers. I am not sure why I was suddenly attracted to these puppies. It may have been a natural footwear purchase after my obsession with finding a platform heel boot for men. The search for shoes that make me taller without having to buy an actual woman's shoe is tiring. During one googling session I came across a pair of creepers. I thought back to how my college roommate grew 3" before my very eyes whenever he put them on. So I went to eBay and got my first pair - in leopard no less. Why? WHY NOT??!! I went with the leopard because I am eying another pair of leopard shoes, so this would be a 2-fold test drive.


The sole of the shoe is a little more than 2" thick but the actual shoe is cut quite low, making them a bit tricky to walk in if you do not have any experience walking in heels. Luckily I wore nothing but 3" cowboy boots for a solid year in high school so my level is a bit more advanced than the average homo Joe. Still, creepers are not for those with weak ankles. When I put them on I measure up to about 6'2". Mission accomplished!! With more research my friends told me that their favorite brand was T.U.K. and I might invest in some wing tip or all black/white creepers for the next pair.


As an added bonus, this pair comes with a secret compartment hidden under the sole. So even though I am wearing khakis I can still be somewhat gothic. The miniature coffin is perfect for my chapstick or emergency cash or garage door opener or something. Or something.

- jerome

San Francisco > Texas

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE SF GIANTS. WE WON THE WORLD SERIES!!!

Sorry, TexASS, it's not like you had a chance to begin with. All of San Francisco (even the gays who normally don't follow sports) was behind the team in a solid effort to MESS WITH TEXAS. Thank goodness I had a Raf Simons shirt to commemorate the victory since I cannot grow a beard. GO GIANTS!!

- jerome