Here are two of the ads for Chanel’s Fall 2009 ad campaign, shot at Creative Director, Karl Lagerfield’s Vermont home. The ads give off Little House on the Prairie and just scream BEAT. This reminds me of a shoot I did with photographer, Charles Trahan II over at MESH., which is available here. Hope to see more really soon. Check it out.
more THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS.
Here are more of the pictures from Madonna’s Fall 2009 ad campaign for Louis Vuitton. They have really went in on the effects. Bad for Madonna but great for the products. Check them out.
CoutureSteez Out!!!
Here’s a fashion spread from the July 2009 issue of Teen Vogue. “South of the Border” inspired fashions are the IT factor this summer. They have all the color, style and personality you need to look great on a beautiful summer’s day. Which look would you wear??
CoutureSteez Out!!!
Last night’s BET Awards were anything but appeasing, yet there were a few fashions that kept me intrigued.
First, there’s my wife and all time favorite female singer, Beyonce Knowles, sporting none other than a Balmain mini-dress. Regardless of what anyone says, I feel that the silhouette is amazing and the color adds just enough of a pop. If you had a body like her’s you’d wanna show it off too. Let’s just be glad she didn’t wear one of Tina’s originals.
Next there’s my boy Drake, with a pretty casual approach. Tip to Ciara, this is how you pull off casual on a Red Carpet. From the cardigan to the ankle boots, I’d def rock this ensemble. [BTW I think he made sitting on a stool rapping look pretty smooth. Hope the ACL heals.]
more THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS.
Model, Sessilee Lopez, has been featured in a July 2009 Vogue Germany fashion spread. Something many ethnic models don’t get. Here she is looking ever so hot!!!
CoutureSteez Out!!!
Moncler Gamme Bleu is a men’s collection of urban garments. For the Spring 2010 collection, Creative Director Thom Browne choreographed this amazing show which is probably the most innovative I’ve seen to date. Along with a great idea came great fashions, and together the two have taken over the fashion world. With this only being the second collection for Moncler Gamme Bleu, they have started off extremely strong and I look forward to seeing what is to come. Check out some of the hot fashions.
more THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS.
For his Fall/Winter ’09 Collection, John Galliano drew inspiration from old England, most notably Sir Francis Dashwood and his Hellfire Club, an exclusive club for the British high society during the 16th Century. In his interview, Galliano also states that he was inspired by old paintings, books, and mythology, combining elements of streetwear, sportswear, and melding it into “The Galliano DNA,” somthing the designer says his discerning target audience seeks.
I’m loving Galliano’s collection. Aside from the old English feel, it gives me a Pirates of the Caribbean vibe as well. And ladies, did you peep the shoes?!? yes, heels are coming in higher than ever, but to incorporate such raw materials as plywood, Galliano is taking the shoe game to another plateau.
For more pics, as well as video of the show, and a backstage interview with John Galliano himself, check out the website here.
Stay Classick!
JoeCouture.
So, you’re probably wondering, “Why the hell is U.C. featuring a LEXUS?!?” But know that, since the introduction of the current LS, the luxury division of bestselling marque Toyota has entered a whole new ballpark. Aside from the all new design, The Lexus LS has merged the executive luxury sedan with the hybrid- a first in its class, something that has attracted attention from such celebs as Alicia Keys. Take that Mercedes!
After being previewed by the LF-Sh Concept at Japan’s Tokyo Motor Show, The Lexus LS460 and LS460L (Long Wheelbase) arrived in dealers in late 2006. Starting at about $64,000, one of its major innovations- a standard package- it premiered with is Parking Assist, a system in which the LS can park itself, utilizing rear cameras (one cool feature… My neighbor owns one in navy). In the LS460L, the Executive Package added a rear DVD entertainment system, swivel tray tables, and reclining rear seats which provides passengers with a Shiatsu message at the touch of a button. Under the hood, the LS is powered by a 4.6 liter V-8, producing 380hp. A year later, Lexus upped the ante, introducing the $105,000 LS600h L, the first executive luxury hybrid, as well as the world’s first production V-8 hybrid. It’s also powered by a V-8 (up to 5.0 liters) and nickel batteries, producing 439hp, batteries and engine combined.
So, STILL not convinced?!? Well, think about this: you can be rolling around in this lovely Lexus, getting a Shiatsu message in the rear reclining seats while watching Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard in “Breakfast At Tiffanys” with- get this- OVER $20 GRAND IN YOUR POCKET! Yes, my people, it’s true. Lexus’ flagship undercuts the Mercedes S-Class, BMW 7-Series, Audi A8, and Jaguar XJ by about $20,000 or more. Talk about a recession buster! Additionally, its has that Far East flair with a modern edge, like the works of Vivienne Westwood, Commes des Garcon, or Yohji Yamamoto (of Y-3 fame). And, to top it off, it has the soul of a Toyota, so you know you can’t go wrong with this. Truly a classic that will age with grace.
For more information on the LS, check out its website here.
Stay Classick!
JoeCouture.
We here at Urban Couture are major fans of the French house of Chanel, founded by Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel in 1909. I personally believe it should be a staple in any woman’s wardrobe (be it in their means), especially the famous Chanel suit and the classic quilted 2.55 bag. And while that will forever hold true, I’m very torn over their latest bag, the 31 Rue Cambon Tote.
I’m not sure if my colleagues will agree with me, but I’m not a fan of the tote(s), which are essentially leather versions of the store’s shopping bags, most notably from Chanel’s Paris boutique (located at-you guessed it-31 Rue Cambon). While I love Chanel, I don’t think I’d want to walk around town with a leather store bag. Of course, it’s not marketed towards me… But I’ve been wondering, would Coco herself, approve?!? She’s revolutionized women’s high fashion, but is this something she hoped for? What are your thoughts on the bag? Love it or Leave it?
Stay Classick!
JoeCouture.
Some time ago, my esteemed colleague CoutureSteez wrote about the cool transportable Puma store (pictured above), which can be taken apart and transported via ship from place to place and opened as a temporary store. After reading that post, I’ve researched the innovative architecture style, simply dubbed “Shipping Container Architecture.” And it has taken off in a major way.
While it may not be a living arrangement for everyone, it does affect the environment, being that storage containers are being recycled and put to good use (Light Bulb: Homelessness could possibly be reduced or even eliminated if this takes off..?!?). Additionally, each container costs around $1500-2000, relatively affordable, especially if one is seeking to create a home that’s totally his/hers. And finally, IT’S TRANSPORTABLE! Imagine having the luxury of being a nomad, or vacationing wherever, while not sacrificing your home comforts.
Though that will be some time away, expect to see me in a “humble” abode of this nature. It’s eco-friendly, it’s unique, and it’s hot, hot, HOT!
Stay Classick!
JoeCouture.
