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

Traveling Acquisitions Part 1

Shirt and boots by COS and Khakis by J.Crew
Ever followed a brand but could never get your hands on the merchandise because there were no stockists in the US? This was the case for COS. I long for certain pieces every time the new lookbooks are revealed. During my stay in Munich, I was finally able to grab a pair of boots and a shirt. I thought long and hard about getting a jacket or two, but stuck to the basics since it was just the beginning of the trip. A shirt is always great to have, and I adored the boots. The SA called them "Gumi Boots" when he was ringing them up. My new favorites!


If you ever wondered where or how I take these pictures, they are on my balcony. I wish I had my own personal photographer, but I am incredibly self conscious if photographed from bad angles rarely comfortable with pictures I don't have 100% control of. The poster board behind me is used to focus the lens while setting the self-timer. I wonder how other bloggers get such good pictures of themselves...

- 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

Hand Me Down

Motorcycle Jacket by Bukta, Shirt by Chloë Sevigny for Opening Ceremony, Jeans by Uniqlo, Hi-Tops by Raf Simons
Meet my new favorite jacket. This beauty was given to me by my partner. He was sad to see it go, but he no longer fits in it. He gets bigger muscles and I get new clothes please don't push me down the stairs♥. He acquired it on a trip to Osaka, Japan and while he was about my size now, he still needed to buy the large. That's Japan's sizing for you. It is made of stretch neoprene and remains structured but form fitting. I love the color and clean lines!!


- jerome

Hello, Old Friend

Star shirt by H&M, Tank by Dior Homme by Hedi Slimane, Jeans by J.Crew, Harness by Zana Bayne, Shoes by Whoop-De-Doo
I love when I stumble upon forgotten pieces in my wardrobe that used to be staples. I think this Dior Homme tank was my very first piece from the brand. I was obsessed with the Bee logo for its silhouette and placement. This tank served as a staple for years, but somehow got lost in the shuffle. Hello, old friend.

In other news, I am not quite sure how it came to pass but the fashion cholo is in full effect. Button ups done up all the way is just pleasing to my eye, so it was only natural that this would happen. This outfit might have been repeated one too many times because it has been photographed at various parties and I am embarassed. This is a valid excuse to go shopping and proof that excellent design and quality makes getting dressed a lot easier.




- jerome

Red, White, and Blue

Shirt by Black Fleece by Thom Browne, Belt by Levi's, Khakis by J.Crew, Shoes by H&M

Even though all the forecasts say it will be short lived, the slight heatwave that has hit the Bay is an absolute blessing. I think my choice in bottoms is telling. Choosing to wear bermudas and khakis over black shorts and draped dhoti pants proves my new commitment to American sportswear. I love the colors red, white, and blue together. I even like stars and stripes. KEEP ME AWAY FROM EBAY. Soon I will be leaving for an Eastern European vacation with my family, and I wonder how much cash I should allot for shopping what essentials I will be taking. My flight is on 9/11. The heat and sunshine are a welcome guest that I wish could stay longer, but all of these

ALLERGIES CAN GO TO HELL

- jerome

Nasty Looks

CHECK OUT HER LOOKBOOK, ALL OF IT IS NASTY
Online fit gallery LOOKBOOK.nu and vintage purveyor Nasty Gal joined forces to throw one helluva shindig at the Space Gallery in San Francisco. It's been a while since I attended a party where everyone looks like a 10, but when two online fashion super forces put on an event IRL, you better bring your A-Game if you want some props. Literally. Hype stickers simulated the online rating system. Think vintage high fashion in a dark, dirty bar. So San Francisco. Check out both websites for inspiration and shopping. Check out more photos from the party here!! Happy Hyping.

The Nasty Gal Team

The heat is back in San Francisco and I cannot wait to start wearing some shorts!! I went a little overboard with the popsicles today, but I figure boxes of those are always good to have. I have been working like a maniac, which explains my lack of updates, but the beautiful weather means better lighting for photos :) Stay tuned!!


- jerome

I Don't Do Womens, Just RAF SIMONS

Fig 1.1 Shirt by Raf Simons for Fred Perry, Vintage cut-offs, Boots by Dr. Martens Fig 1.2 Shirt by Raf Simons for Fred Perry, Trousers by H&M, slippers by 3:33
My obsession with Raf Simons began many years ago. It was a name I had read over and over again in magazines when searching for unique designs to try and wear as a statement in suburbia. At the time I was faithfully devoted to Hedi Slimane and his work at Dior Homme, regularly placing phone orders and trolling the nation to acquire things unavailable in the Bay Area. I quickly developed a preference for Belgian designers and the colors black, gray, and white. Raf Simons came at just the right time to push me in the right direction, craving innovation and unique silhouettes. He is one of the designers who allowed me to mature in my fashion choices, straying away from the hot scene mess that I was turning into misguided outfit selections.

Today, I am still following Raf. His collaborations always seem to speak to my taste of the moment. These Fred Perry Collaboration shirts came up by chance online and I quickly seized the opportunity to buy them. The collar is cut perfectly to elongate my neck more than I could have imagined, which is what I look for first in every button down. I love the color blocking in the first shirt (THAT ORANGE!) and the deep ink color in the second. I look like I am wearing the UNIFORM FOR A SPA IN THE FUTURE but I still think they're pretty sweet.

Next on my list is the Dr. Martens collaboration, as well as anything from Jil Sander... but his work for that brand is another post entirely. I have let go of my statement shirts from House of Holland, but the two I have kept really embody my sentiment for fashion at the time: CAUSE ME PAIN HEDI SLIMANE - I DON'T DO WOMENS, JUST RAF SIMONS.



- jerome

Reporting for Duty

Zippy Shirt by Burberry, Tee by Brian Lichtenberg for BITNB, Khakis by J.Crew, Boots by Burberry Prorsum
I am pretty sure that am feeling the resurgence of the military trend this season. This will come quite handy even in the summer months when I find myself too body conscious to pull off all-white gauzy ensembles (like I summer in the Hamptons anyway). I recently picked up this shirt during a shopping trip with some friends. We were trying on new tops (oddly enough I was the only gay present at the time) and had this whole conversation about underpinnings as outerwear. The topic came about after I tried on a Dries Van Noten shirt that had an elastic band on the hem that created a bomber effect. I am still desperately trying to save up for the green PS1 It was a bit out of my price range so I put it down.


My pleasure in layering collared shirts called when I stumbled upon this Burberry shirt. It did not have the elastic waist, but the zipper closure made it irresistible. There is still a button at the top for fashion-cholo mode, but mostly I am in love with the details. The D-ring on the back adds a touch of utility while the brown buttons decorate the epaulets and settle as a trio at the cuffs. I am in love with this color!!




I am currently tackling a pork tenderloin as I type this, praying it will cook all the way through. Other than that I don't really see any battles in the near future, but at least I will be outfitted for a good fight. I wish Cammy and Guile would wear Burberry. How sick would it be to see them in Prorsum??!! Just me? Fine.


- jerome

Just Because

Shirt by Adam Kimmel, Jacket by Corpus, Stirrup Pants by Prada, Vintage Zori Sandals

Please excuse my horrific expression in this picture. I am not photogenic.
I have been dreaming of Tokyo lately. It is my that wish more people would exchange their Havaianas for Zori. I do not normally condone flip-flops, and if you are one of those jerk-wads who are "allergic to shoe laces" I wonder why you are reading my blog at all. Also, I have a strong desire to wear kimono too. There is no real cultural costume in America, which is sad. The juxtaposition of kimono with outrageous fashion, tailored business attire, and casual sportswear is inspiring in so many ways on the streets of Japan.

I cannot wait to get out of the United States for a family vacation to Europe in September. It is obviously vastly different from Japan, but in my experience the places we will be seeing are equally delightful in art, culture, and cuisine. I just have to be careful not to get hella fat from all the bomb food spend too much money on Euro fashions!

- jerome

Brand Loyalty

All clothing by Comme des Garçons for H&M
Sometimes you cannot help but obsess. I have gone through serious phases with different brands. It isn't always about staying on trend. I prefer to stand by a brand when it suits my needs and speaks to my current style mood. For instance, JEROME PLEASE STOP IT WITH THE LOUS VUITTON AND BURBERRY ALREADY KTHX the Prada ensemble in the previous post was a head-to-toe outfit of the same brand but from different seasons. I rarely wear whole outfits by one designer, but if it works then why not? Collecting takes time, especially since most of my obsessions are luxury based. THIS GETS REALLY REALLY EXPENSIVE. Thank goodness, then, for designer collaborations with affordable retailers like H&M and Target. It was no chore at all to wait in line at 6:00AM to score the goods; well worth the effort to get my pick at a whole season's worth of Kawakubo deliciousnessness.

So who is next? William Rast will be designing for Target's Go International collaboration, but there has yet to be an announcement for H&M's much anticipated pairing. I wonder who it will be. I hope it will be someone with sensibility in both mens and womenswear so we don't see another epic failure a la Jimmy Choo. I think it might be too much to ask for Thom Browne to do any more collabs, but I would appreciate being able to afford a suit or two. Whatever. Just as long as Taylor Momsen doesn't start designing.

- jerome

Pray For Us

MOTHER SUPERIOR

Shirt by Band of Outsiders, Cape by French Connection, Rolled Trousers by H&M, Boots by Burberry Prorsum, Necklace by Alex + Chloe
I miss my black wardrobe. This month has been a roller coaster of emotions that kind of bled into my outfits these past few days. I think the world of retail having a job and paying for my own stuff this weather is really starting to mess with my head. I cannot wait for my family Euro-trip in September... maybe I will get to experience some form of Summer?

The shopping list continues to grow as another month comes to an end. BUT I NEED THEM.

- jerome

Aruba, Jamaica, Ooh I Wanna Take Ya to...

Bermuda, Bahama, Come on PRETTY MAMA!

Vintage Palm Print Shirt by Magnum 357, Denim by Levi's, Zori Sandals from Japan

EVERYBODY!! No? Beach Boys? I thought it would be a good time for a Kokomo moment, but IT'S PARTLY CLOUDY AND 53ºF IN THE MIDDLE OF JUNE. But I continue to dream about wearing stuff like this. I found the Magnum shirt at a thrift store here in San Francisco. For whatever reason it reminds me of Margiela. I like the print and simple colors, and really thin vintage shirts are hard to pass up on. Also, these Zori Sandals that I picked up in Tokyo are surprisingly easy to walk in. ETHNIC SUMMER 2010!!


- jerome

Spring Has Sprung

Shirt by Alexander McQueen, Shorts by Shipley and Halmos, Sneaker Sandals by Juun.J

ONE DAY, SAN FRANCISCO WILL SEE ITS SPRING/SUMMER AND I WILL NO LONGER SUFFER IN THE COLD TO TAKE A PICTURE IN SHORTS AND SANDALS.


- jerome

Bring Your Whole Crew

I AM INSPIRED BY MY FRIENDS.
There is a feeling of security and pride when I walk with a group of my friends and/or family. This resonates in a few editorials I have been seeing lately. These shots have an element of comic book pin-up and boy band heroism, but I like how easy it is to make up stories about the homos homies in each shot.


All photos from The Fashionisto


- jerome

Birthday Loot pt. 2

BACK IN BLACK
Leather by Codes Combine, Checkerboard Tank by Dior Homme by Hedi Slimane, Denim by J.Crew, Bag by Burberry, Sneaker Sandals by Juun.J
Here are two more pieces that I acquired during birthday shopping. I am super excited for this Burberry Baby Burnished Bag. The beautiful leather, convenient cross-body strap, and mini size make it the sweetest camera bag in the world. Long have I awaited for this bag to go on sale make its way into my closet because it is durable enough to use as an everyday/party bag, and the strap lets me take photos and hold drinks. You can never have enough bags... or shoes! My newest pair of foot candy comes from Juun.J, courtesy of SevenNewYork. When SevenNY revealed that they would be carrying the line, my hopes were high. I remember my depression after missing out on the Balenciaga peep-toe booties and Giuliano Fujiwara gladiator sandals, terrified that I was cursed away from runway collection SS footwear forever; but by some miracle the limited edition Kim Kiroic for Juun.J Black High-Top Sneaker Sandals (that is their full official name) are mine!! You know I love me a good gladiator/cut-out/woven shoe, so these are bound to be my favorites for summer!



I am stoked to be wearing black again. I think I am finding ways to meld my neo prep with my black-everything past. Happy Happy Birthday!!


- jerome

Birthday Loot pt. 1

CHRISTMAS IN JUNE
Duster Coat by Burberry, Oxford and Denim by Uniqlo, Hi-Tops by Raf Simons, Vintage Sunglasses, Bag by Louis Vuitton
It might as well be, right? If you have been in the Bay Area for the past couple of months, you know of the peculiar and never-ending winter I speak of. I suppose I over did it a little this year, but there is something about working in holiday weather that makes me spend holiday money shop windows brighter, turning wish lists into inventory. I have already told the story of my newest LV, but this Burberry Duster is a new addition to my wardrobe. It is very mod, but the mood changes with different ensembles. The pulls at the waist and sweep allow you to play with shape, naturally adding that excellent draped/crinkled look thanks to the properties of the water repellent fabric. I think I was sold the moment I discovered the "tails" on the back... who could resist?!! The sheer volume of the coat is enough to add drama, and that gorgeous olive, much like HANSEL and regrettably less like our current climate, is so hot right now.



- 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

This One is for the Ladies...

And once again I'm mad jealous. I want nothing to more than to sit down with great designers and beg for a job tell them to make man versions of their wonderful creations. I've been meaning to do a post about this particular subject, especially since I recently swore off buying women's clothes (I DID NOT SAY ACCESSORIES), so when Tommy Ton posted looks from the Dion Lee show during Sydney Fashion week I saw it as a prime opportunity to make my point. Because for realz, how sick would these look on guys:

Photos from Jak & Jil
Imagine those pleated knots as a shirt or tank, under a blazer with trousers and sandals!! Silhouettes may have to change but if you kept the iconic detailing I think the design aesthetic could translate beautifully into menswear. I love how "Australian" this collection is. Okay, I have never been to Australia so my impression is painfully American and superficial. But the organic prints, pastel color palette, and light as air fabrics scream island-water-sun-goddess. I want to wear this on a beach and take pictures, then promptly change and put on something I wont regret damaging. But first, it must be made available to me; to men!

- jerome