ACID TRIP

Always staying true to his colorful,  twisted aesthetic, Walter Van Beirendonck  is amazing!!!.  Check out these images featuring a whose who of models in this sessionen titled Dream The World Awake (shot at the Anterp Fashion Museum)

RAD HOURANI S/S 2012

Looking at the bold shades of blue and trying to associate it with the usual "darkness" of previous Rad Hourani collections may be difficult to grasp.  But guess what folks, what you are seeing is real.  Take a look a some of these incredible looks from his latest Spring/Summer collection.  Which pieces are your favorites? 

Snapped and Caught: MACHO

THE MODEL WHO EMBODIES EVERY OUNCE OF HIS NAME

I have said it before, and I will say it again... I am always flattered when people ask me for advice.   As of lately, I have met numerous aspiring models all wanti ng to know my thoughts about their careers.  What makes these individuals differ from others I have met in the past is that they appear to have a bit more drive.  A couple of months ago, I was approached by a  young man interested in my thoughts on the images he was planning to use on his comp card.  I gave my input and he accepted with great appreciation.  Never trying to piss on anyones dreams, especially on with potential, I decided to get past the amazing  brawn with this piece, and learn more about this individual. 

   For starters, I had to ask the question that some of you may be asking as well.  Why the name Macho?   I mean how arrogant can a person be?  Well, I quickly learned that this wasnt a nick or stage name...In fact, its his birth name.  WOW!!!  

Now I know that when most of you stumbled across this segment on Macho, the first thing that you see, or notice is this mans amazing body.  But let me say this... Just because a person has an incredible body, doesn't mean that one can be a model. Hell, that is an obvious requirement that you have one.  Now I'm not suggesting that this was the reason he chose this field, but I AM curious to know how it all got started.    

  

During a movie night in Harlem, Macho (along with his girlfriend)surrounded himself around friends.  Things seemed to be going smoothly until he noticed he was receiving odd looks from a guy who was amongst the group.  Finally reaching his boiling point, Macho found the proper opportunity to ask him what his deal was without causing a scene.  Apologizing, the guy responding by saying, "you have a very good look.  Like you can be a model or something."  This world is full of cons... you never can tell ones intent.  

"There can be alot of lies and deceit that goes on in the industry, it can be really hard to find good natured people... especially those who would like to help you climb to the top faster, " Macho explains. 

   Suprisingly enough, the guy was legit.  In fact, he is a well known stylist.

  Going  home with the guys business card in hand, Macho marinated on the situation for two weeks before deciding to take him up on his offer for a test shoot.

Having possible potential in one persons eyes, doesn't mean that the rest of the world was quite ready for him, in fact after doing a few shoots, he was told that he is very stiff.  Recognizing that he is new to this field, and wanting to make himself better, Macho went out and bought a ditigital camera to take pictures of himself.  He also worked on his posing in front of the mirror. 

When it comes to any career, it is good to remain true to yourself, but at the same time, it doesn't hurt to have a role model or two, or even more.  Fashion Forward Men asked Macho who some of his idols in the business were, and he gave us some very impressive names.  Heavy hitters like Tyson Beckford, Chad White, Marcus Schenkenberg, Naomi Campbell(minus the attitude I hope), and Mathius Laurdensen  were named.  And lets not forget about Salieu Jalloh, who is ALWAYS working, and is also one of this sites favorites.  

Being a model and attempting to become a household name won't be easy to achieve, and to be honest, chances will be much more slim for Macho due to the fact that he is a man of color.  Currently, unsigned to an agency, Macho is optimistic that he will be picked up very soon.  Don't be to sad for the newbie though, Macho actually walked in 3 shows during Fashion Week this month.  As in any profession, knowone ever said it would be easy...  So what is it about this field that he enjoys, we ask. 

"I love the lifestyle of a model, but unfortunately, the biggest challenge right now is that models who are not the thinest, or are overly muscular aren't considered to be in style."

He may be young, but Macho has definitely done his research.  At one point, male models were much more muscular than they are now.  Just like fashion, even models themselves are like trends, right down to their physiques.  Though it may be tough for many finding representation, the goods almost always out weigh the bad.  First there's the travel, then the networking, and being exposed to so many things your average Joe wouldn't necessarily be exposed to.  And lastly there's the clothes.  The wonderful wonderful clothes that he will get to wear, and sometimes keep.

Speaking of clothes, how does this Fashion Forward -It Guy sees his own style?

"My personal style is very simplistic, but with a twist.  I dont't like wearing a bunch of layers, but I dont have a problem wearing color.  Due to the different types of jobs I do (he is a trainer as well), I'm usually in jeans and t-shirts, but I don't mind dressing up when its called for," he explains. 

(Though he may keep it simple when it comes to his own style, Macho confesses that he appreciates clothing from Giorgio Armani, Bsixtee6, and D Squared.)

  

Not just a human hanger, Macho, like so many other models have other interest unrelated to the fashion world.  SHOCKING!!!! But its true folks.  So many times they are are required to sit and look pretty/handsome, and because of this, they come off as being (not going to sugar coat this) DUMB.  And for that reason, Fashion Forward Men does its best to allow those often unheard voices be heard. 

 When not modeling, the Fashion Forward It-Guy enjoys working out, playing sports, dining out, and going to clubs and bars.   He also enjoys to watch fashion shows.  On a more more serious note, when Macho grows tired of fashion, he plans on moving into radio, and or hosting a show regarding sports.  So see people there is a back up plan to his ideals. 

We will keep up with this ambitious man and see what lies ahead for him.  No matter what you choose, Macho, Fashion Forward Men wishes you well.

PRINTED EASILY

SHOCKING YET SUBTLE

United Kingdom designer James Long shows how to wear a mixture of prints and patterns for is Spring 2012 Collection 

I came across this designers collection and instantly fell in love with it.  The transitional (sweater and trousers) seasoned wears reminds me of Etro, Paul Smith and a hint of Cavalli all rolled into one.  

BOKI THE BOLD

Boki Milinkovic serves as the face for Australian jewelry line Does Not Equal

Comprised of a black label (luxury), and a  white (minimalist), the unisex pieces can be found in a variety of stores across Europe and also in New York.  If you are ever in the big apple, check out the Paul Smith store at 142 Greene Street. 

I think these pieces are really cool, and they are not to pricey.  Depending on whats in your wallet, one can splurge on a piece ranging anywhere from $90 to roughly $300 bucks. 

FATAL COMBINATION

They may make beautiful clothes, but what about their personal style???

It all started a couple of days ago.  I was having a discussion with a dear friend about how happy we were to see how well a designer acquaintance of ours is doing.  Leave it to me to start thinking way out of left field.  Although my acquaintance's business has picked up, I began to express how dreadful his own attire was. His personal style and his creations don't go hand in hand.  It's the same as seeing a hair stylist with uncombed hair.  It doesn't make sense.

 Going further into my warped thoughts, I then began thinking about all the other designers whose everyday wears don't really come to par with their creations.

As a stylist, I always try appreciate ones ability to express themselves through their clothes.  Growing up, I considered myself very shy.  I was lost when it came to the know hows of approaching people.  Attempting to step outside of my comfort zone,I decided to express myself visually, hoping that those who could relate would approach me instead.  What could have been a huge backfire, thankfully fell into place for me.

As lovers of fashion, we all have various tastes as well as reasons why we choose to dress the way we do.  Some people want to fit in, some people are followers, some are attempting to keep up with their peers, some simply want to shock the world, and others simply do as they please.  Whatever the case, we all have our reasons.

Shifting gears a bit, I want to touch on the more prominent/established designers we recognize. Even these individuals have been guilty of this issue.  Some of them even go through a drastic change.  And its not just designers that fit into this category, its particular people in the public eye who has "came up." When they were first introduced to us, we see them as being one way.  Then it happens... They make a little money, and  suddenly unleash a wrath of unexpected coo-coo.  Confusing??? Yes... But why does this happen?  Could it be that after they have shown they are able to bring the top dollars to the suits i.e. backers/corporate world, they are slowly given more creative control? Possibly.  But because of this, I have to ask, "who was the original person we were introduced to, and were they real?"  And what about those who have taken their images to far?
  

Knowing that I am not the only one with this viewpoint, I decided to take a survey just to get other peoples opinions. To keep a slight bit of anonymity, I will be using the contributors first names only.  Noticing that the majority of those choosing to participate in this survey work in the industry, I felt it wise.  Also wise because a great many of you guys obviously needed to vent because several of these legendary designers were thrown under the bus, and drug through the deepest puddles of mud with your comments.

Shall we begin???

(John Galliano)

 As if he hasn't been facing enough problems lately, the eccentric John Galliano received the harshest criticism from those who took part in this poll.  When asked what they disliked about the former House of Dior designer, the responses came in droves. 

"He dresses like a homeless person on acid."
"He is a genius, but he looks dirty."
"Straight up filthy!!!"
"Pirates of the Caribbean called, and they are looking for extras."

OUCH!!!! I didn't expect this type of input, but hey... Everyone is entitled to their own opinions.

Coming in a close second, and honestly coming as quite a surprise to me is Marc Jacobs.  At first I thought that it was because during the early 2000,s Marc was known for having long tresses, and lets face it, he was kinda dorky looking.  Those days are long gone.  Nowadays, Marc has managed to tear himself away from the design table, and has clearly devoted some quality time to a gym.  The physique is now nicely chiseled and bronzed, the hair has been trimmed styled, and the clothing has even changed.  So with so many positive changes taking place, how did he end up on this list?

 Obviously annoyed, Fashion guru Rique commented, "Hermes Birkin bags, COMME des GARCONS- head to toe... I mean come on shouldn't he be wearing and promoting his own brand? Ugh!" 

"Should designers only be limited to wearing their own line," I questioned.


"NO but damn if your gonna prance around town in drag with a birkin bag at lease throw some of your own shit on sometimes."

(I guess it's safe to say that Rique isn't featuring Mr. Jacobs AT ALL...)

(Betsey Johnson)

(Donatella Versace)

Not to make this a list of all men, the survey takers added two women to their "list of tragic."  Betsey Johnson, although loved for her corkiness, was added because of her in ability to dress her age.  As a cancer survivor, Betsey probably wants to live her life to the fullest and with no regrets.  But of course, this was the furthest from peoples mind when they made comments about her questionable hair extensions, and her clown like attire. 

Aside from Marc, Donatella Versace was another who came as a surprise to be nominated for this list.  The outspoken Ayana stated "she is way to creative for her own good." I didn't know how to interpret this other than I think Ayana sees Ms. Versace as being somewhat gaudy.  For me, Donatella was interesting because the survey takers took what I originally asked them and put a spin on the original question, and with full speed, ran with it.  Instead of them speaking about attire only, they decided to mention poor Donatella's physical appearance (surgery).  Poll taker Harvey even said that she should start incorporating more girdles under her apparel..

Oh well... It is what it is...   

clockwise: Jean Paul Gaultier, Michael Kors, Issac Mizrahi

Finishing up this Worst Dress list are Gaultier, Kors, and Mizrahi.  While Jean paul is probably the most fashionable of this trio, it appears that people think that he over does his sailor/nautical look, and needs to move past it.  Michael Kors, ranked the most boring of all these designers combined.  I understand you may be "conservative," but like the survey takers, even I have to question the constant wearing of a black tee and blazer combo.
Mizrahi is the last that I'm going to touch on.  Sure he is wacky, which I kinda like, but I (like others), get tired of the bandanas he is always wearing.  I wonder how many he actually owns.  His hair ALWAYS appears to be disheveled, I and I get it.  It's obvious that your hair doesn't act the way you want it to, so you tie it up.  Issac, ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.  Cut that mess off and move on!!!