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

Target Acquired: Louis Vuitton X Scott Campbell Stole in Bleu

Denim Jacket by H&M, Tee by Adam Kimmel, Jeans by J.Crew, Shoes by Prada, Bracelets by Hermés, Stole by Louis Vuitton
Runway pieces are fairly hard to come by. I am fortunate enough to live in San Francisco, a city not heavily populated by the fashion obsessed with large flagship stores offering runway collections from many major fashion houses. My sales associates at each store are at the ready after each show I view during fashion week. Building relationships with the people at the luxury stores in your area will help you secure hot items, just like the Prada Espadrilles. My sales person at Louis Vuitton came through, and now the Louis Vuitton X Scott Campbell stole is mine!


When I saw the Spring 2011 shows I knew that it was an expensive season. Thank goodness this is the final piece on my wishlist I will acquire for Spring before my birthday!. Louis Vuitton's menswear doesn't usually catch my attention. My affection for the house stems from their heritage and history with luggage, handbags, and accessories. During the Spring 2011 show, I took notice of the tattoos on the models and the graphic designs on the accessories. The stoles were particularly beautiful and versatile and I imagined layering the piece as on the runway. The color and hand of the marvelous accessory is very bewitching in person. The all-cotton stole drapes beautifully and is lighter than air. My Birkin fund has taken a massive hit this season but I think runway pieces are worth it, if not purely for exclusivity. There is a second color - Khaki - that still may be available at the SF store, but you're looking at 1 of 15 pieces in the country. This is my second Louis Vuitton Tattoo stole, and let me tell you I am a big fan!


Watch this video on the Louis Vuitton and Scott Campbell collaboration. You can see Campbell inking the drawings found on the stole. The design is based on Chinese astrology with a subtle LV monogram. His tattoo style is quite beautiful and flowing, perfect for the collection. The second video in this series showcases the design and realization for his custom tattoo kit by Louis Vuitton. I hope that one day I can get my own quality custom piece made from the house!


And while we are on the subject of fashion and tattoos, focus your attention exhibits A and B. On the left we have a model sporting Scott Campbell's (washable) tattoo design for Louis Vuitton's Spring 2011 menswear runway show. On the right we have an anonymous-yet-unfortunately-infamous LV monogram sleeve tattoo that has absolutely no context or personality. I mean, let's just hope this guy is a part of the LVMH family (judging by the chin strap, it doesn't seem likely). I may have a clear addiction to designer clothing but because I ain't ballin' out of control, I have to be careful with my luxury purchase choices. The same caution should be exercised to the 100th degree when getting a new tattoo. Perhaps it makes him happy; I certainly don't have the balls to do it. Bold move, sir.


- 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

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

Covert Operations

Blazer by Zara, Tee by Dries Van Noten, Khakis by J.Crew, Brooch by H&M, Vintage Boots, Bag by Louis Vuitton
The internal struggle continues with choosing which Louis Vuitton Sofia Coppola Bag I should pick for my birthday. The Suede asphalt has been taken out of the running because I am not Kate Moss and I don't have Kate Moss money it is impractical. The price point for the SC Bag ups the ante, making owning both next to impossible. From the beginning, it was always the Jasper; and if I have learned anything from trying to decide between two colors of the same limited edition bag, I should trust my instincts. Still, it doesn't hurt to ask.

I brought in my gaysian and my geisha to give their opinions while experiencing the bags in question. This is input I can respect and trust. The strict no photo policy at LV stores turned this into a covert operation, but my friend's sidekick allows for inconspicuous photo taking. So here are the two darlings in all their glory: Cobalt v. Jasper

The judges unanimously agreed that the Jasper is the color to go for. First, the Jasper color is a unique shade of red that will age beautifully. The Cobalt is really gorgeous, but the twilight shade of blue is so dark that it really looks black most of the time. There is no point in getting the color even I cannot really appreciate all the time. This also highlights the next argument: there will be other black and blue bags.


Jasper wins in the color and longevity categories for its uniqueness and classic/timeless nature. Both bags have an element of wearability. The Cobalt is such an obvious pick because of my deep love for navy, but when putting it next to my entire wardrobe, it seems to be too "matchy matchy." The Jasper can add interest to any outfit without overpowering because it is not such a shocking red.

I believe I have made a pretty solid decision in choosing the Jasper, but I am still taking votes. Once again, I will only count votes made after seeing the bags in person. My entire family still has to weigh in, so anything can happen. Both colors are on hold for me until I make my decision.

Vote NOW!

- jerome

Rock the Vote

It's that time of the month again, and trust me when I say my "time of the month" is getting really expensive. Financial Emotional ups and downs, and this time it is my birthday. We all know I need a little help when it comes to making decisions. I can barely decide on what to eat for dinner, let alone which bag to choose when offered a variety of color ways. So again, with the Louis Vuitton (oh, jerome!). I will keep this short and sweet. The SC Bag is pretty much the Birkin of LV bags, and if you cannot get passed price tags for handbags, then I cannot help you, nor do I want your advice. So which one should I get, the Jasper calf leather, the Asphalt suede, or the cobalt calf leather? The decision must be made on the 24th of May, so comment or email me with your vote!!



- jerome

Love Always, Arm Candy

Vintage Shades and Floral Shirt, Camera Tee by Milkfed by Sofia Coppola, Leather Jacket by H&M, Denim by J. Crew, Bag by Louis Vuitton
Leather Jacket and Chambray Shirt by H&M, "RIP YSL" Tee by Brian Lichtenberg for BITNB, Denim by Uniqlo, Bag by Louis Vuitton
I am in love with my Néo bags, both Monogram Canvas and Monogram Eden. I feel like I am cheating on the other whenever I use either bag, so I try and alternate as much as I can (as long as the weather permits - there is no way they are getting wet with the patina this young!) The shape and size are perfect for my essentials and then some, and the versatility in carry styles has changed my view on accessories completely.

It just goes to show you you have to follow your gut; which reminds me I have to start going to the gym again I am solidifying my birthday shopping lists, and will fill you in as my savings deplete :X

Fun side note: My partner did not break up with me after he found me taking pictures using photobooth doing the strangest poses with my favorite handbags. Also, posing on a revolving computer chair is not the stablest idea.

- 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

Target Acquired: Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Néo and Circus Bag Charm

The wait is over! After months of intense saving, deciding, waitlisting, heartache, and patience, I finally received my very own Louis Vuitton Néo! As you can see I went with the Monogram Canvas for its versatility and classic appeal. This bag is absolutely stunning, and truly the most wearable from the Spring 2010 collection. Getting the Monogram instead of the Eden Khaki allowed me to pick up the Circus Charm too!


These oversized tassels are the most charming bag charm I have seen in a while. They can be worn with my other LV bags as well. I am in love with these two new pieces and happily took them off my wishlist :)

Thank you to everyone who voted and helped me make my decision!!

- jerome

Good Things Come to Those Who are Waitlisted

At Louis Vuitton with the Nèo bag in Khaki and Monogram, wearing a Trench by Burberry, Trousers by Comme des Garçons, and Boots by Zara
Today was a sad day. I was planning my whole day off tomorrow around taking my new Louis Vuitton Nèo home and shopping accordingly. To my dismay, the shipment was delayed until the 15th. It turns out that the Monogram Nèo, the one I am waitlisted for, is one of the most limited of this season's limited edition offerings. The Khaki Eden bag was highly publicized by the ad campaign and Naomi Campbell's charity work, so I would imagine the stores were prepared for orders. However, there is a high demand (and apparently less supply) of the Monogram version because of the lower price point and versatility of the classic print. Thus the waitlist - I hate that word - and my extreme disappointment. Remember kids, don't count your chickens until they've hatched handbags until you're off the damn list.

But this may turn out to be a blessing in disguise. I was able to see all of the bags in person and try them on. As I expected, the color of the Khaki Nèo was not as metallic as the Argent or the Péche from the Eden collection. It was perfect, but the fact still remains that the Khaki has a luster that could potentially lose relevance with both my taste and wardrobe. I already have another beautiful Burberry purse in a green color way that I have trouble working into daily use, so imagine the trouble with a bright, emerald, come-mug-me purse. The Louis Vuitton Monogram is a classic that cannot lose with a modern shaped bag. Now I can make an educated decision and I won't have to wonder. I WANT SO BADLY TO GET BOTH but I am going to stick with the Monogram Nèo... if it doesn't sell out. What do you think (comment or message!)?

- jerome

I Have an Addiction, Sir!

I realize that I have been writing a lot about Louis Vuitton. I am not going to pretend like I didn't despise the brand in the past. Hyper exposure and mass-counterfeited, the Louis Vuitton Monogram was all too much for me until I found styles that worked with my wardrobe. There are tons of products that I still find repulsive, but with this season's emphasis on heritage, I have slowly come to appreciate the history and quality that goes into each piece. As I blogged before, I love the classic shape of the Speedy, and this is translated into the larger Keep Alls. Classic silhouettes used by any brand usually have me surrendering my plastic, but Louis Vuitton particularly makes it worth while because their bags are the perfect weight, shape, size, and quality I am looking for.


Like Snoop Dogg, I am a fan of the Damier Ebene Canvas. Friday will mark an extremely intense, fraud-prevention-freeze-my-card inducing, Spring shopping spree, and (FINGERS CROSSED) my first Monogram Canvas bag in the form of the Nèo bag. Wish me luck and wisdom!!

- jerome

Waiting to Exhale: The Louis Vuitton Nèo Bag

Today, I finally got to see the Louis Vuitton Nèo bag from the Spring 2010 Eden collection. It is a sight to behold. The metallic lambskin leather feels like butter, meticulously sewn in perfect synchronization with shimmering ribbons of Monogram canvas. There is even a decorative lock! However, I didn't realize that the pictures could be so deceptive. The Nèo bag is beautiful, but its luster is overwhelming. There is a soft glow when photographed because it glimmers like a jewel in the sunlight. I love it as a fashion bag, but it is out of my budget. Thank goodness there is a Monogram Canvas version!

Louis Vuitton SS10 Runway, SS10 Ad Campaign with Lara Stone, Naomi Campbell for White Ribbon Alliance
I was toying with getting a Monogram Noè, but thank goodness I waited. The limited edition Nèo bag is more versatile, measuring in at the manageable size of 11.4" x 10.2" x 7.5" (compared to the 10.2" x 13.4" x 7.5" Noè). It comes with an adjustable shoulder strap that can be shortened to the same tote length as the Noè, or elongated for a cross body option. The top handles are excellent for hand carry or a sling. The classic Monogram is more my speed, too. A shimmering, metallic, Monogram Louis Vuitton bag just might get jacked in the Tenderloin (one of the many shady parts of San Francisco), or dirty. I am also in love with the closure. The Noè is secured with a leather strap that must be tied. The tedious and constant manipulation of the ties can wear down the leather. The Nèo is secured with a rucksack-style drawstring, similar to a bolo tie. It more practical, exclusive, and (dare I say it) masculine (yeah, ok Jerome). And let's not forget the studded feet on the bottom!


Note: A portion of the proceeds made from the bag will go to the White Ribbon Alliance Charity, thanks to Naomi Campbell! I think this is one limited edition piece that I do not mind paying a pretty penny for. After all, the Nèo is rare while my other choice is a classic that I can get some other time. I am not particularly attracted to house monograms, but I think the classic LV is great juxtaposed with the modern shape of the Nèo. It is a perfect sized bag that will surely be a classic in my closet! That is, if I put my name down early enough on the waitlist... fingers crossed and pocketbooks locked!

- jerome

One Ring to Rule Them All

Vintage Turquoise Ring, Luster Ring by Ugo Cacciatori, Leaf Wrap Ring by Denise Heffernan, Claddagh Ring Made in Ireland, Rabbit Ring by Kasukobo Japan, Palm Reader Jewelry Stand by Urban Outfitters

My taste in rings has changed over time. My digits have seen it all from shiny plastic to precious metals. My collection varies in sizes and styles, but I currently like matching different textures and colors, even (brace yourself) silver AND gold! The five displayed above are the current set I switch around and wear everyday. I have had the Claddagh Ring, traditionally the Irish wedding ring, since I was about 13 years old. My obsession with it began after watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer, though I continued to wear it as I respect the symbolism in its design (hands for friendship, heart for love, crown for loyalty). The organic look of the leaf ring is exquisite. I acquired the rest of this current crop of rings overseas during my travels through Asia. I love how both the vintage turquoise and Luster rings have a mystical look to them, as if they have power. The rabbit ring is unique to the Kasukobo store in Shibuya, made in-house and 100% special.

Occasionally, I like to throw in some of my favorite costume pieces. My two most recent pieces are from Yves Saint Laurent and Louis Vuitton.


I bought this "Y-Mail" ring a few days after I bought my Easy Bag. It just seemed like a logical purchase as the store was closing and it would never be this discounted again.


Not all of my rings are silver. I like mixing gold in every now and then, which is not very easy to do. More and more of the handbags I fall in love with have gold-finish hardware, so it seemed likely that I would get a gold ring. The Louis Vuitton Martelé Ring is made of hammered brass pieces, including 3 engraved nail heads. I love it!

I fall in and out of love with wearing jewelry. I have a strange dislike for things on my wrist so bracelets/cuffs/watches are almost always out; I have a huge collection of necklaces that I sometimes wear; but rings have always been a staple in my wardrobe. Rings are the one form of jewelry that has been constant. There is nothing worse than losing one! I feel naked if I forget to put them on when I am running late.

- jerome

C'est La Vie

I think I am starting to get the hang of this job thing. I woke up this morning to discover I slept through my alarm by almost half an hour and that the bag of coffee my partner bought last night was in bean form (and sadly, a grinder is an appliance we didn't have). I carried on like normal, picking up coffee before hopping on the bus.

During my lunch break, I headed to Louis Vuitton to exchange my previously mentioned Speedy 35 that was manufactured in the USA. I went into the shop-in-shop in Neiman Marcus to seek out my French made goods because that particular location is less busy with sales associates who actually have time to take requests. I mildly panicked when the woman who previously set the bag aside for me was not there, but I was happy that I was able to do the exchange anyway with another, less enthused sales associate. Though I love shopping at flagship stores, sometimes shopping at a smaller location works to your advantage.

By this time, I had finished eating, bagged a new handbag complete with new storage box, and I still had about 40 minutes left. Yes, working downtown sure is convenient. I spent the rest of my free time at the LV flagship, browsing and thoroughly annoying the commission hungry monsters who work there. My next conquests for that brand are the Noe and a custom Monogram Canvas Speedy 40. Having a job is wonderful.


My thirst for Louis Vuitton is kind of a shocker, even for me. I used to be so turned off by the brand, but Japan changed my opinion. For the first time, I saw people carrying the bags in their own way, customizing them with charms and using them to accessorize the perfect outfit. I fell instantly with the most classic model. I love carrying something classic and well known as an unexpected addition to my look.

This is another big indicator as to where my style is going. Style has a tendency to evolve, which is different from change. Stylish individuals with defined tastes always hit the same notes in new ways as their interests evolve. I am starting to shed my black and white, draped/strappy/asymmetrical wardrobe for a more tailored classic look that includes some pop of color or pattern. It is still a little androgynous (without being totally gay) and a futuristic approach to classic looks. At least that is what I am going for this New Year.

Oh yeah, this is probably my last post for 2009. Happy New Year!!! Here is to being healthy, looking good, working to live, saving for a Birkin, and enjoying life!! See you next year :)


- jerome

Made in The USA v. Fabriqué en France

Call me a purist, but I believe that when I buy goods from a French Maison, I want them to be made in France. I am not putting down American craftsman ship, but being the OCD person I am, I NEED my French goods to be French.

So when I received my Louis Vuitton Damier Canvas Speedy 35, I knew it was made in the USA because it was purchased online. The label confirmed my suspicion. Working downtown comes in handy because I can settle things like this with a sales associate, especially when it is a personal request. This need for "Made in France" goods is a little crazy (and definitely as stereotypically Asian as the Rilakkuma charm on my cell phone) but I can sleep better when I know where things are made.


Working downtown can also be really dangerous. When I was working as a nightlife photographer, I was able to distance myself from boutiques and flagships by maintaining a nocturnal schedule. Now, in the midst of almost every major luxury brand, my wish list continues to grow unhealthily from both exposure and tangibility! During my visit to Louis Vuitton (what else is there to do during your lunch break?), I stumbled upon the most charming key and change holder. Let us see what I come home with tomorrow!

- jerome

To Buy, or Not To Buy

You wait, and you wait, and finally it is sold out. Your heart aches over it and you discover there are only 2 more in the country. I know this beautiful charm is expensive, but it's luxury, right? What did you think it would cost? I have to make my move tomorrow.

Tomorrow is my day off, which will give me time to update you all on my Christmas loot! Maybe after reviewing what I got will help me make a decision on the Louis Vuitton Trunks and Bags Charm. Classic!

UPDATE: It is sold out entirely in the US. I am now on a mission to hunt it down, but not on eBay because the ones on there look shady.

- jerome

God Speed

It has taken my family a while, but I think they are used to my "unusual" fashion choices. Sure, a cape may not be so uncommon, but I am not sure my Aunts and Uncles have ever seen one on a guy before, accompanied by a handbag no less. Thank God I am out. It takes the edge off when going to family parties.


Epi Leather Speedy 30 by Louis Vuitton, Shirt and tie by Tim Hamilton, Hooded Cape by Bexist Japan, Trousers by Dior Homme by Hedi Slimane, Shoes by Topman

The Louis Vuitton Epi Leather Speedy 30 was the bag that started it all. Since I bought it in October, I have been obsessed with obtaining others. There are many gorgeous epi colors but I must exercise self control until after the holidays. I thought it would be appropriate for the Speedy to be my first LV bag because of its classic shape (only the Speedy models 30 and larger work for me, as the 25 is much too small). The countless counterfeits turned me off to LV for the longest time. However, discovering Epi leather has started a new love affair between me, Damier canvas, and a variety of LV goods.


Filipino women are notorious for being born with the Louis Vuitton gene, but I suppose my mother's delayed development was better late than never. I asked for a Damier Speedy 35 in ebony for Christmas, and my mother bought us matching purses. Again, a great piece to start her future LV collection. My anxiousness and impatience spoiled the surprise on a recent trip home, but I was paralyzed by the fact that my mother bought them on the LV website on "Cyber Monday." She could barely work a computer a couple of years ago, but now she is, "saving on shipping... I'll show you on my iPhone." SHOCKING.


I have to wait to get my Speedy on Christmas, but because of my mother's new understanding of my obsession, I think it will prove to be the gift that keeps on giving!

- jerome