Taken from the good folks over at [Gentlemen’s Quarterly].
Author Archive for Joe Blackmon
NAME: Kiara Weatherington
AGE: 20
HOMETOWN: Virginia Beach, VA
1. WHAT INSPIRES YOU WHEN CHOOSING YOUR CLOTHING?
Nothing inspires me. I just like to look nice.
2. WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE DESIGNERS AND WHY?
Ralph Lauren.
3. NAME A FEW PIECES (CLOTHINGS, SHOES, ACCESSORIES, ETC.) THAT YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT…
Scarves, Berets.
GET THIS LOOK
JACKET: Coach
SWEATER: H&M
LEGGINGS: H&M
SCARF: Up Against The Wall
NAME: Sharmaine N. Harrison
AGE: 21
HOMETOWN: Lakewood, CA
1. WHAT INSPIRES YOU WHEN CHOOSING YOUR CLOTHING?
Mainly, the season and how I’m feeling. I like to change up my style so I like to have pieces that suit each theme.
2. WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE LABELS/DESIGNERS AND WHY?
I love ANYTHING! I feel like I can pull off a lot, so I don’t limit myself.
3. NAME A FEW PIECES (CLOTHING, SHOES, ACCESSORIES, ETC.) THAT YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT…
I can’t live without my leather jacket, Juicy studs, and my cowboy boots [which are falling apart].
4. WHAT TRENDS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO/PREDICTING FOR THE FUTURE (NEXT SEASON, YEAR…)?
I’m looking forward to this winter. I love winter wear and mixing colors with the normal winter palette.
GET THIS LOOK
LEATHER JACKET: H&M
V-NECK SHIRT: Gap
TUTU: Forever21
PEEP TOE BOOTIES: Urban Outfitters
BAG: Long Champ
NAME: Pebel E. Segura
AGE: 21
HOMETOWN: Alexandria, VA
1. WHAT INSPIRES YOU WHEN CHOOSING YOUR CLOTHING?
I like to wear clothes that make me stand out. I choose pieces that are unique and creative.
2. WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE LABELS/DESIGNERS AND WHY?
Marc Jacobs, Betsey Johnson, and Anna Sui. They are creative and unique.
3. NAME A FEW PIECES (CLOTHING, SHOES, ACCESSORIES, ETC.) THAT YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT…
Clip on earrings. High boots. Scarves.
4. WHAT TRENDS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO/PREDICTING FOR THE FUTURE (NEXT SEASON, YEAR…)?
Grunge.
GET THIS LOOK
SWEATER: Thrift Store
JEANS: H&M
JEWELRY: Lucky Brand Jeans
BOOTS: Loehman’s
BAG: Juicy Couture
Stay Classick!
JoeCouture.
DC Fashion Week is right around the corner… literally. Starting this coming Monday, the District’s largest fashion exhibition will be kicking off its 11th year with a bang. Founded by Ean Williams, the week brings designers from all around the world. According to DCFW:
DC Fashion Week is the largest exhibition of fashion apparel in the District of Columbia. The designers of DC Fashion Week are an eclectic group of designing talent who come from around the globe. From the high fashion capitol of New York City, to the exotic coasts of New Zealand, to the exquisite city life of Belgium, they’re taking the nation’s capital by storm.
Additionally, yours truly is an intern volunteer this year, and I would love it if you all came out and supported me, Mr. Williams, and the entire team who work to ensure the week is a major success. For more information about next week’s events, be sure to visit the official website.
Come out and have a great time! (Or don’t come, and be a total LAME!)
I’ll see you all there!!!
Stay Classick!
JoeCouture.
11
Sep
09
Couture Cars: Fresh Out of Crewe
Since the introduction of the Bentley Continental/Flying Spur/GTC, my interest in Bentleys have declined, although if someone were to give me one, I’d gladly take it off their hands (besides, who’d be foolish enough to not do so?!?) However, I feel that the guys out in Crewe (England) have heard my cry. Enter, the 2010 Bentley Mulsanne.
The all new Mulsanne- named after the famous straight on the Le Mans circuit where racers reach their highest speeds- marks the first vehicle designed independently by Bentley Motors since 1930. Additionally, it revives the nameplate that was utilized from 1980-1992. Although official power figures haven’t been released, the Mulsanne will featured a redesigned version of the iconic Bentley V-8. My only guess is that power should be north of 400-450 English horses- this is a Bentley.
Slotted to replaced the aged Arnage, the Mulsanne, upon its release in 2010 for model year 2011, will be pitted against the Rolls-Royce Phantom and Maybach’s 57 and 62 variants. Expect a sticker price upwards of $400,000.
This car has totally restored my faith in Bentleys, although it was never lost; let’s just say it was put to the side. I’m so looking forward to seeing this somewhere. It has that classic style with a modern twist, a staple for anyone’s garage… Well, those who can afford to place this lovely vehicle in their garage(s).
Do we have a winner?!?
Stay Classick!
JoeCouture.
30
Jul
09
Throw It In The Bag.
Being a lover of “exclusive” bags on women, I decided I’d introduce you (or re-introduce for those in the know…) to a great bag label, Anya Hindmarch. Founded a few years ago by Great Britain native Anya Hindmarch, the bags have quickly becomse all the rage, with fans such as Scarlett Johansson, Claudia Schiffer, Madonna, and Angelina Jolie. Hindmarch designs bags for the woman who does it all, creating a Day Collection (comprised of satchels, hobos, totes, etc.) and a Night Collection (elegant clutches). Additionally, she also designs custom bags for clients, a la the Bespoke Ebury Collection (Embossed croc example above). Take a look:
And now the Night Collection…
I dig the Boho-Chic flair that Hindmarch has incorporated into some of her designs. It adds a slight touch of flair. I will say, some of the designs do feel a bit dated, but the spots of color bring them up to date. Additionally, The Bespoke Ebury collection is a great and alternative selection for those looking to invest in, say a Hermes Birkin bag. The bag’s price starts at around $1700, SEVERELY undercutting the Birkin, which can command prices in the tens of thousands of dollars, as well as a lengthy waiting list. Sure, one would say that the Ebury isn’t in the Birkin’s ballpark, but if you’re looking for an affordable, custom-crafted bag, go for the Ebury!
Stay Classick!
JoeCouture.
30
Jul
09
Atlantis Made Real
If all goes well, by the end of this year, we will no longer have to read the story of Atlantis and wonder what life was like underwater. Once the Hydropolis Underwater Hotel and Resort opens off the coast of Dubai, we will have a modern taste at what the “Underworld” has to offer…
Designed by Prof. Roland Dieterle, The Hydropolis will be the world’s first underwater luxury resort. It will sit 66 feet below the surface of the Persian Gulf, right off the Jumeira Beach in Dubai. The complex, composed of three sections- The welcoming land station, connecting transport tunnel for the train, and the resort itself- will be spread over an area roughly the size of London’s Hyde Park. According to parent company, Crescent Hydropolis Resorts (via Wikipedia… The site is under construction), The resort will be a 10-star hotel. Room rates are expected to start at about 5grand per night.
Dubai has been going bananas with these resorts springing up, with sail-shaped buildings, island resorts shaped like a palm leaf, and even another that’s supposed to be modeled after the map of the world! But this underwater thing… Hmm. I’m not too sure about that yet. I know, I know… you only live once right?!? But, I would have to wait a while before I make it there. How about you?!? Would you drop that 5grand or more for an underwater adventure?!?
Stay Classick!
JoeCouture.
30
Jul
09
Gentlemen Get Groomed
In this month’s issue of GQ Magazine, the Conde Nast Publication did a feature about neat hairstyles for men, one of those being the “Neo-fro” as epitomized by Kid Cudi- a style I’m going for currently, though I’m starting to reconsider that (Some things aren’t for everyone… Though I don’t look bad at all!). Rather than take the entire article– besides, Cudi was the only African American featured- I’d figure I would offer my own hair grooming tips:
1. If you don’t have him/her (yes fellas, females can cut, and from my experience, well), GET A LEGIT BARBER.
2. For everyday upkeep, get a hard, medium, and soft hairbrush. The soft is for the days following your cut, provided it’s cut low. The medium brush is used as your hair grows. And if you’re at the hard brush stage, it’s about that time to invest in a cut.
3. Long gone are the days of “Blue Magic” Hair Grease and “Luster’s Pink Oil.” Step it up to a hair mosturizer, such as ” Shea Butter Moisturizer by Fantasia IC.” I’ve just started using it, and I’m a fan already. For guys with “The Cudi” or something similar, all you have to do is apply, style, and go. It helps the hair to retain moisture, as well as give it a nice luster.
4. I don’t need this much, but if it applies, there’s nothing wrong with getting a line-up weekly. I honestly shouldn’t have to remind you of that.
5. If you’re sporting facial hair, keep it tight! There’s nothing more unsightly than wild, unkept facial hair. Especially if you’re considering good employment. Facial hair is to be treated like the hair on your dome. It should actually compliment the style, not take away from it. Act accordingly!
Anymore tips, feel free to add!
Stay Classick!
JoeCouture.
So, when I spoke with my esteemed colleague, CoutureSteez, about doing Hollywood posts devoted to men in the town- thus spawning the Hollywood Muscle features- I immediately thought of iconic actor James Dean. Sure, as an African American, we have such icons as Paul Roberson and Sidney Poitier, but I honestly don’t find anyone, black or white, who’s more iconic than Mr. Dean, even to this very day. Dying at the tender age of 24 (a pic of Dean and the infamous Porsche 550 aka “Little Bastard” below), James gained a cult following, despite only starring in 3 films, “East of Eden,” “Giant,” and his most famous work, “Rebel Without a Cause.”Dean is so famous, that he was honored with an Oscar twice! So, thinking about the James Dean of today, there was really only one person that came to mind… Can you guess who he is…?
Still don’t have a clue?!? Come on, he’e probably in 3 of the movies in your DVD collection (directed more towards the ladies!)…
Drumroll… It’s…
Zac Efron!!! Staring in Disney’s High School Musical series, Efron has gained a cult following from females aged 2-92. I honestly feel that, with age, and some deeper, thought-provoking movie roles that’ll test his true potential, Zac may possibly become the James Dean of the 21st Century and beyond. Additionally, his style is very versatile, being able to adapt to whatever he’s handling for the day, whether it be a simple tee and jeans for the daily duties, or a tailored suit for the red carpet. He’s truly a figure of the emerging industry, something I like to call “Young Hollywood.” Here a are a few more looks at his shoot from April’s issue of GQ magazine…
Stay Classick!
JoeCouture.
No, this isn’t your Grandfather’s Buick- that big, gas-guzzling hearse he’s been driving faithfully since General Motors wasn’t owned by the American government. For you Philly people out there, this isn’t the “hood Buick” that about 100 of your friends have come to own. This is the all new, 2010 Buick LaCrosse, an indication of where the automaker is going. Lexus, get yourself ready for battle!
The LaCrosse is the second generation of the entry-level model, which made it’s debut in 2005, replacing the aging Century/Regal models. While the first generation was a great seller for Buick, I’m so expecting great things from this current model. Aimed at category mate, the Lexus ES, the LaCrosse comes equipped with a standard V-6 engine, producing 255hp. There’s another V-6 (this one is direct injected) as well, pushing out 280 American thoroughbreds on tap. For you out there experiencing all weather conditions, it does come in All Wheel Drive form as well. Additionally, to further pull buyers away from the Lexus showrooms, the LaCrosse starts out under 30 grand.
Being a Philly kid to the core, I’ve always had a thing for Buicks, especially since they’re basically the most affordable “starter car” here in my city. But, I’ve never really looked at the company beyond that. However, if Buick/GM continues to produce models like the LaCrosse (FYI: Look out for what may be the next-gen Regal… I’m hearing great things!), I may have to reconsider pursuing a Japanese luxury marque!
How about you?!?
Stay Classick!
JoeCouture.
30
Jul
09
I Can’t Be Serious…
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I’m so serious right now. For the longest, while I’ve held much hatred towards the “common Coach” bag- C’mon, you know those ugly, flimsy canvas bags with the C’s flooding every square inch of the bag- I’ve always maintained the leather company does produce some great, “uncommon” bags, such as those displayed in this post. This may get me in trouble with my colleagues @ UC (and possibly some of you), but I’m loving Coach‘s latest products, which fall under it’s “Boutique Exclusives” collection. Take a peek at a few examples (and my personal favorites):
So, I know that the styles I picked are a bit basic, possibly even dated, albeit presented in bold colors and materials, such as the sequined number pictured above… But I must say, they are a great alternative to the common Louis Speedy bags (real and fake) that have been flooding campus since I’ve been around Howard. Additionally, being a more “upmarket” Coach bag-in terms of looks and price- they’re not as flashy and, they’re staples that can go a long way… Remember ladies, this is a recession. You have to shop wisely now!
Any thoughts?!? Do share!
Stay Classick!
JoeCouture.
Urban Couture 