Meet Dee Dee

This is Dee Dee, the most adorable chug I have ever met. A chug is a mix between a chihuahua and a pug. Dee Dee prances instead of running, setting the cuteness bar quite high. I have been thinking about getting a precious puppy of my very own but with the move it seems unpractical. If I were to get one it would have to be the latest breed of adorable - See: pomsky.

- jerome

Ear to Ear

It has been a tough, trying month at work. My partner has also been busy with a hack-a-thon (building a video game in 48 hours with a team all the way in Argentina - play it here!) so we haven't been able to spend much time together this passed weekend. So finally when I came home from work and he had finished the game, we got to spend some well-deserved quality couch time together. These two videos that I made him watch made me smile incredibly big yesterday. I am assuming that is what this emoticon symbolizes :))))))))


Models aren't really paid to dance, but I wish more fashion campaigns would be like this Lanvin AW2011 video. Even Alber Elbaz got to dancing! Raquel Zimmerman and Karen Elson look stunning while Lowell Tautchin and Milo Spijkers shuffle sweetly to the awkwardly choreographed routine. This video shows the sense of humor that makes Elbaz and Lanvin so lovable. Prada also did a music video for Spring, but there is something so candid about this Lanvin one that I love.

Get More: 2011 VMA, Music, Beyoncé

It is no secret that I am a huge Beyoncé fan. No once can deny that she is the hardest working woman in show business. Her song and dance was flawless, but the true surprise came when B revealed her pregnancy. She concluded her performance by opening up her purple sequin Dolce & Gabbana tuxedo jacket and rubbing her belly to tell the world that DESTINY HAS A GRANDCHILD NOW. Some highlights of the video include Adele lipsyncing at 1:35 (which made my head explode from diva worship) and the beaming father Jay-Z and pround Uncle Kanye at 4:30 (that caused my eyes to well up). GO B! She is unstoppable.

- jerome

Party Girl

Photo from Esquire Mag
Tonight is the birthday of an "infamous party girl" in San Francisco. Which happens every month really. The funny thing about the small city of SF is that there are very small degrees of separation. Thus, when party people combine their birthdays into a celebration known as "The Every Mother Fucker You Know Party," it is an inevitable shit show. I just hope no one dies, and I end up on top like Tina Fey in that brilliant editorial for Esquire.

- jerome

'Cause Cathy Said So

I attended the Academy of Art University's B.F.A. fashion show yesterday. Amongst big names like Nathalie Rykiel and Yigal Azrouël, two of my favorite influences in fashion were in attendance: Suzy Menkes and Cathy Horyn. Suzy Menkes did not say much for the time I was at the show (I did not stay for the awards ceremony), but her charming quaff was a surprising treat as I didn't know she would be there. Cathy Horyn did speak briefly though. Horyn is known for her brutal honesty as a fashion critic for the New York Times. I would probably faint if she was judging my senior collection. She has earned her respect in journalism, as well as her banishment from certain designers' runway presentations. Horyn was here in San Francisco to speak with the graduation fashion students and accept a doctorate in education from the AAU AND SHE DIDN'T EVEN TWEET BACK AT ME WHEN I CONGRATULATED HER ON TWITTER.

I apologize for the atrocious pictures. Saying that I had a nosebleed seat would be an understatement.
Remember that some years ago Lee McQueen himself was a guest at the graduation show of some lucky alumni. Cathy Horyn is an important and honest writer and I hope I can learn from her. She advised that bloggers should do more reporting, and less re-telling. Linking and "borrowing" from other blogs is boring and ineffective. Horyn also recommends to learn French. My blog can be categorized as a personal style blog, and sometimes a glorified shopping list of sorts. I hope when I do report the news that it be my own take and my own point of view when relevant.


Being around such respected names in fashion journalism has inspired me again. I never had an end-game when I started writing but I am reminded of the need for a creative outlet when the lack of jobs keeps you from doing it professionally. It has been a terribly trying week filled with headaches at work and allergies everywhere in between. The beautiful weather has more than made up for my slump and it was fun to take advantage of it. Back to work, and back to birthday month!!


- 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

The Scent of Anna Dello Russo

I am going to need a bottle of this.

- 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

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

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

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

Brought to You by the Letter B

B IS FOR...

Burberry Brit Army Shirt
Brian Lichtenberg for Blood is the New Black Tee
Blue Jeans by J.Crew
Brown Brogues by Virgin Blak
Bag and Bag Charms by Louis Vuitton

This is my day look. Respectively. In San Francisco, you learn to bring a jacket or sweater everywhere you go. Forecasts say the Bay Area is about to get some major rain, so I took the opportunity to wear some lighter garments during the eye before the storm. HOLY COW I AM NOT WEARING ANY BLACK. Almost 2 years ago my entire wardrobe consisted of just black, white, gray, and muted neutrals, and even leisurely ensembles would have at least one asymmetrical drapey thing. Though I still love avant garde design, I have broken out of the darkness and started wearing colors and tailored clothing. More than anything, heritage pieces really struck a chord with me as of late and I have come to appreciate workmanship and concepts in the clothing I choose - be it fashion forward or preppy, designer or vintage.


The letter "B" has come up a lot in my blog lately; from bags to "Balmania," it is all about the B word right now. And let's not forget about Beyoncé. The following video surfaced about a month ago and I went crazy for it. Here's why:



1) I am a huge Beyoncé fan
2) I purchased this shirt direct from Brian Lichtenberg via MySpace messages upon its inception
3) The Beyowulf herself was quoted saying, "I love this shirt! I own all the shoes on it!"
4) All of the shoes on the shirt are by Balenciaga by Nicolas Ghesquière
5) The shoes are arranged to form a B!!!
6)I love Barbecue and Block parties

Let us pray that Barney's will finally bestow upon me the bags I have beseeched!


- jerome

Anniversary Issue

J'ADORE ADR!

I CANNOT WAIT. 10Mag's cover star for their anniversary issue is none other than Anna Dello Russo. WERK. First Tony Ward and now ADR? This is fashion mag heaven!

- jerome

Aspirations, Thinspirations... Like, Real Goals

Mary-Kate Olsen with Bodyguard, purveyor of my entire wish-list

Sometimes I wish I was Mary-Kate. She doesn't ever have to choose. She can have her cake Céline Luggage tote and eat it have her PS1 too. Extra large. In Python.

Since I am a post-grad living in an economy presently in a recession, I have to choose one... for now anyway. LET'S NOT KID OURSELVES - I WILL BE GETTING BOTH. It is more of a matter of which one comes in first I think. Obviously the PS1 is near and dear to my heart. I even took a poll of which color I should get because there are so many lovely colorways. However, the PS1 is the "it-bag" of now whilst the Céline tote is close to my heart as well. The tote is also an it-bag but being dubbed "the new Kelly" it has classic potential. I have been alerted that both of these beloved leathers will be making there way into the store SOON for this upcoming holiday season. Fingers-crossed they don't come at the same time... The Birkin fund cannot take too many more hits! I promise I will cool it with the bags after these... I may or may not have my fingers crossed on that one too.

Until the time comes when I can spend like an Olsen, I will continue to dream of a shopping furiously like MK for hypothetical babies.

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

- jerome

Currently Reading

READING IS GOOD FOR YOU

1. VOGUE HOMMES JAPAN A/W 2010 Vol.5
2. TEN MEN/ AUTUMN WINTER 10 Issue 23
3. "Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk" by David Sedaris

There are many necessities that pretty much drain my checking account every month, one of them being fashion magazines. I have been collecting i-D and V since I was 17. I draw inspiration from the photography and writing housed on the glossy pages within these publications.

The latest issue of Vogue Hommes Japan features Lady Gaga's alter ego "Jo Calderone." I cannot read anything, but the editorials are stunning (more CREW style!!) and there is a poster of Lady Gaga wearing the infamous meat dress by Nicola Formichetti, photographed by Terry Richardson. The TEN MEN anniversary issue is all about the cover star,Tony Ward. He is featured on almost every page - which is totally fashion porn. Actually, it is just porn if you don't believe nudity can be seen as art.

I also picked this up while I was at Borders during my lunch break And when I am on fashion overload, I like to take a break with some humorous literature. David Sedaris is one of my favorite authors. Somehow I manage to be out of the country every time he comes to read in San Francisco. Sedaris is famous for writing about his every day life, but this latest work is a collection of stories examining everyday life through the eyes of animals. I do not LOL like I normally do at his books, but the morbidness of the writing and illustrations by Ian Falconer make this book a fun read. Quick too, I read the entire thing in an hour or so.

Happy reading everyone! What is on your coffee table this month?

- jerome

Canadian Tuxedo

Tee and denim by Uniqlo, Shirt by H&M, Shoes by Whoop-De-Doo
This is what I wore yesterday. It seemed pretty appropriate for the morning commute. The sun was shining, but there was just enough breeze to need coverage. Apparently many other people had the same idea because I was seeing denim on denim on denim on douche bags my entire way to work. I think I even saw a jumpsuit not unlike J-Lo's. However, I have an edge: Thanks to Jackie Chan, Asians in the 90's totally owned this look. So instead of looking like a total victim, I looked like...

BIG TIME HONG KONG ACTION MOVIE STAR
The "American Pop Art" shirt is one of my favorites. It is Keith Haring inspired as part of a collaboration with Uniqlo. I picked it up in Shanghai. The design on the front is actually embroidered, which is a really nice touch for such a cheap shirt. I also like having my fingers crossed, just in case.


I desperately hope they will open a Uniqlo in San Francisco. Also, the PS1 would look mighty fine with this (or any) ensemble. So please vote and tell me which color I should get in the poll to the right :)

- jerome

All for You EDIT

Leather Jacket by H&M, Tee and Jeans by Uniqlo, Hat by H&M x Comme des Garçons, Vintage Boots, Bag by Louis Vuitton
Most people know that I worship Janet Jackson (Ms. Jackson if you're nasty). In most of her music videos, there is always an "edit" section where she does a dance break more technical than the rest of her thrusty/sexy moves. The "All for You" video is still one of my favorites, and while tragically styled, the ending ensembles featured one sleeved motorcycle jackets that stuck with me for a while. I started wearing my leathers with only one sleeve on; this came in handy at bars or parties when it was too hot to wear your outerwear indoors and I didn't want to pay for coat check. To refresh your memory:



I truly miss that album. It reminds me of sunny days and simpler times. I really don't care who knows that I enjoy good pop music as much as obscure/classic house/rock music. It really shouldn't be a problem, but if you don't like Janet then I can't help you.

- jerome

Jewelry, Magic, and Transformation Sequences

You can see from my previous post that I have started to dress like those smart lesbian extras who gossip a lot and provide comedic relief in the magical girl cartoons from Japan. Clearly, I have been watching too much Anime. But seriously, I wish I could get ready like this in the morning:


Transformation sequences from Mai-Otome Zwei

There are certain pieces in my jewelry collection that feel magical to me. Whether it is the shape of the stone or the whimsy of the setting, a unique ring or necklace can be empowering. My ring fetish has controlled my mood on more than one occasion. Sometimes I realize I have forgotten my rings when I get to work and a bad day is almost sure to ensue. They may not let me break it down in a transformation sequence, but my rings are my armor, my magic, and my se-kuuur-ity. So imagine, then, the jewelgasms that happen at Anna Dello Russo's flat. Observe how she stores - or displays - her collection of jewelry. Her pieces simulate armor when worn together, especially on top of her runway looks. Check it out through Tommy Ton's eyes.

Photos from JAK&JIL and ADR
ADR said that because she wears looks straight from the runway, her jewelry is one of the best ways to add a personal touch to her fashion week wardrobe. I believe a statement ring or brooch can change an outfit completely. Details like personal jewelry, understated or over-the-top, are a sign of high fashion and taste when executed properly. My rings may not be the catalyst for some sweet henshin action be made from precious metals and stones but they are magical!


- jerome

One Day, I Met Christopher Bailey

In the fashion world, you deal with A LOT OF PERSONALITY. There are egos to pad, toes to avoid stepping, and plenty of poker-faces to play when you want to speak to the right people. It is easy to develop an attitude when there are crowds of fans whispering your name, eager to meet the famous you... especially when YOU are the chief creative officer for one of the world's largest luxury brands, and the recipient of countless accolades in the fashion industry including the CFDA's International Designer of the Year Award. The average man might have an incredibly inflated self-esteem from such accomplishments. Luckily, Christopher Bailey is an exception to the rule, and one of the most humble people I have ever met.


I met Bailey during the launch party for Burberry Beauty, the first cosmetics line released by the brand. There were samples of foundation, lip gloss, shadows, and the rest of the beauty range, designed to be the finishing touch for the "Burberry girl." The packaging is really fresh: a simple etched check motif decorates the metallic covers and faces of each product.

Burberry Beauty now available Online and at select Nordstrom locations
The intimate event was attended by a choice crowd of socialites and high-profile clients. It was brief but I was satisfied after talking to Christopher (saying that I talked to CB hasn't gotten old yet) if not for the simple fact that there was no shortage of aggressive people seizing the opportunity to speak to the face of Burberry. It was such a relief to meet such a praised powerhouse in the industry who is full of talent and energy, but remains grounded and sincere when speaking to his colleagues and audience. I mean, how am I supposed to respond when CB asks how I'm doing? Apparently, "I'm very well and honored to meet you." I asked him what was next for men's Prorsum, but he said he hasn't begun work on A/W yet. I'm not surprised considering his schedule but I was delighted when he confirmed my suspicions about punk being an influence for the SS2011 collection. As his fierce PR team lead him from person to person I noticed his efforts to give full attention to whomever he was conversing with and obliged all requests for photos. There was a moment when Bailey was pulled aside from the fray to take press shots for the event. He politely excused himself and nervously tried to find his own angles without a jaded bone in his body. He seemed slightly fidgety and self-conscious - AS ANY NORMAL HUMAN BEING WOULD/SHOULD REACT.

Trench by Burberry, Shirt by Uniqlo, Khakis by J.Crew, Bag by Louis Vuitton, Vintage Boots and Sunglasses
Meeting Christopher Bailey was special for me; he is not just a celebrity, but an artist I respect and whose career I have followed with great passion. I still don't know what to expect from Burberry in the future. The brand is a purveyor for apparel, shoes, accessories, and fragrance (for men, women, and children), and now cosmetics. It is a little intimidating (or uplifting depending on how you view it) to see such growth from a fashion house in this economy. Whatever the next move is, I am comfortable with being a faithful client to the brand because I know it is in the hands of one of the good guys.

- jerome

The Wonderful World of Walter Van Beirendonck

There is much to be said about the fluorescent world of Walter Van Beirendonck. His designs are more than whimsical, bold, and unconventional - Walter brings back the fun in fashion. The re-staging of the 'WONDE®' collection was met with an eccentric audience comprised of fans, insiders, bloggers, and BEARS. Van Beirendonck is known for casting and designing for the larger, harrier homosexual, thus, the runway show is less about cold pouting and more about warm hugs. I arrived at the show and immediately noticed a difference from the normal fashion show waiting game: people were smiling at each other and complimenting outfits, COLOR COLOR COLOR, and double-cheek-kisses weren't backed with a bitch slap from the eyes. It was a diverse crowd that wore their individuality and quirkiness without hesitation or guilt, which is really the kind of attitude and bravado one must posses to pull off Van Beirendonck's creations.


The circular runway surrounded bright, traffic-cone-orange hills. I am happy to have seen just that instead of the traditional linear catwalk. This was the perfect setting for bears clad in short shorts and croc-printed tailored clothing. The grip tape on the large center piece suggested frolicking, but I suppose it would have been a little haphazard, and would take away attention from the clothing. There are many subtle details within each design that are striking and fun. For instance, I want the low-cut jumpsuit with all the little pockets in all the right places. Imagine the freedom of a feather weight, sky-blue polo that says "HI" to/for you! Take note of the strong graphics in a sea of bright colors. I understand the fans that came clad in Van Beirendonck; Walter is not about high (nosed) fashion, he is about "Hi, Fashion!" The show was loud in a variety of ways, and everyone present got the message.


The final parade of bears in their birthday suits was a special treat that I never thought I would be able to witness. You can research past shows, or analyze his design philosophy, but the atmosphere created by Van Beirendonck on the runway is something to be experienced. My favorite part of the evening as a whole, apart from the smoking hot man candy on the runway the fashion, was the warmth and happiness of the bear community of the Bay Area. When was the last time you heard cheering from the audience, or saw winks and laughter from the models on the runway of a high profile fashion show?! All in attendance saw an iconic moment deserving of the standing ovation it received. Thank you, Walter Van Beirendonck, for making fashion fun.



CLICK HERE FOR MANY MORE PICTURES OF THE LOOKS AND THE CROWD IN HIGHER QUALITY :)

A very special thank you to to Lindsey Shook for making all of this possible. You bring the best to the Bay!

- jerome