Monday, February 28, 2011

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Human Planet

This is going to be amazing: a new BBC series that showcases human beings interacting with the natural world.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Ray Barbee

One of your all-time favorites going back to when you were a kid.

Monday, February 21, 2011

Saint James Spring 2011

Below are some of the latest offerings for women from the French brand, Saint James. They have been established in Lower Normandy since 1889, and the most recent looks are perfect for the preppy seafarer.

Saturday, February 19, 2011

At Frank Tell F/W 2011...

Frank Tell's most recent collection, which you were able to take in last Tuesday evening at Lincoln Center, was inspired by post-apocalyptic science fiction films like Mad Max and Planet of the Apes. The connection is immediately evident, as the exhibition suggests survival in a harsh dystopia. This is, of course, excellent.

The young Spanish designer's success here is largely due to his ability to mix patterns and materials. The looks are chic and sexy, and yet the imagined world of the show--in which survivors clothe themselves with what is functional and available--is sustained. For example, there are jackets that incorporate both fox fur and alligator skin. Knits are on display in the form of pullovers, tunic dresses, cardigans, and vests, but they are not the smoothly flowing, organic creations of his previous collection. Now, they seem to be pieced together; the designer wants them to appear "shredded in a beautiful way." A key element in contrasting the rough and the refined in these garments is, as Mr. Tell puts it, his desire "to explore [the use of] rarefied fabrics such as lace, chiffon, and georgette in a non-precious way." Therefore, many of the dresses, skirts, and shirts feature these fabrics.

Frank Tell's creativity and imagination are undeniable, and as you're continuing to discover, he has a flair for the theatrical. His vision is clearly articulated through both his clothes and his carefully considered presentation. It is, after all, quite a feat to add allure to the post-apocalyptic, but Mr. Tell has done it.

Friday, February 18, 2011

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Stone Island Tour, Part 3

In this third episode of the documentary dedicated to the world of Stone Island, Andrea Moro, the company's Head of Product, unveils the details of manufacturing.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

At Simon Spurr A/W 2011...

Simon Spurr's most recent presentation was a scene, to be sure; thankfully, the designer did not disappoint. He exhibited a collection rooted in classic English tailoring, one of his specialties. By using a palette of black, grey, and white, and by pairing the suits with oversized hooded cashmere knits and black leather driving gloves, Mr. Spurr crafted a slightly more sinister aesthetic. Edgier pieces like the washed-leather cavalry jacket and leather lancer trench added to the look. While much of the suiting can safely be called timeless, one might be mindful of the character wearing it...at least on this day.

Monday, February 14, 2011

Nanamica Jacket and Bag

Couple of new pieces from the Japanese brand Nanamica. The first is a Gore-Tex shawl collar coat, and the second is their take on the messenger bag.