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July 23, 2008

Limited edition David Choe sneakers

Buy the art, see the film, now get the sneaker—artist David Choe, the subject of the documentary “Dirty Hands: The Art and Crimes of David Choe", has teamed up with adidas to create a limited edition sneaker inspired by “serial killers, ninjas, nightmares and Ice-T lyrics”.
There are only 500 pairs of the Choe sneaker available worldwide. Sizes range from men's size 4 to 13.5. To pick up your fresh pair of David Choe Stan Smith sneakers, visit www.upperplayground.com or head to an Upper Playground retail store.
The sneaker will go on sale online at 8am, Pacific Standard Time on Thursday, July 24.

July 23, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

Surf-bum film screening in Brooklyn

July 23, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

ENK Menswear shows: Orthodox

Eric Niccoli of Orthodox closed out the ENK Menswear shows, showcasing a series of sleek designs that brought the street to the suit. 
Plaid prints, pointy oxfords and layered henleys in muted tones and patterns populated the runway in a short and sweet Spring/Summer 09 show that mixed classic and trendy, combining pieces that can be worn both now and forever. Jeans were updated with slanted oversized pockets and the classic briefcase was upgraded to a square laptop-size shoulder bag in nylon fabric with metallic blue hue.
Overall, the looks toed the line between catwalk and sidewalk, with a fresh look that was both stylish and effortless.

July 23, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

ENK Menswear shows: Buckler

Some people like it dirty—and fashion designer Andrew Buckler of Buckler is one of them.
His Spring/Summer '09 collection, showcased at the ENK Menswear shows at Pier 92 in Manhattan this week, was a daring knight's tale that merged old world influence with street edge.
The models (including "Make Me a Supermodel" Season 1 alum Dominic Prietto) looked like they'd stepped straight out of a medieval joust, and were covered in dirt, grease and tattoos.
Sporting shield-inspired vests, ridged headpieces and slouchy knits in a grey scale color palette, with a few pops of bright orange and blue, Buckler transformed his band of pretty boy rockers in to ready-for-battle heroes.

July 23, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 17, 2008

Just for men: ISHI 1451 Jewelry

25-year-old Ishi Glinsky started designing jewelry two years ago, partly in frustration at the lack of interesting accessory pieces for men. He started with necklaces, suspenders and wallet chains made from found objects, anything from street sweeper bristles, to dilapidated metals, nuts, and bolts. Today, he uses more conventional beading and coral pieces with antique objects such as preserved alligator claws and fossilized walrus tusks carved into detailed objets d'art.
Especially striking are his oversized necklaces, made from older chains, locks and antiques (currently on view as part of an art installation at the BPMW showroom at the Cooper Building in downtown L.A.).
"I approach each piece more as a collage than with a jeweler's mind," says Glinsky, who named his line 1451 because when turned upside down, the numerals it resembles the spelling of his first name. He is inspired by Dadaism and old photos of Native American tribes around the turn of the 20th century. "In older photographs, the beauty of their traditional tribal wear was beginning to be consumed by modernity."
You can buy his wares at Front St. 1124 Glendale Blvd, LA CA 90026. Large pieces are on display and available for purchase at BPMW Showroom, 860 Los Angeles St, CA 90024.
www.onefourfiveone.com

July 17, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 7, 2008

Your Netflix queue: the window to your soul

Forget the eyes...it's a person's Netflix queue that is truly the window to their soul.
My Netflix queue, for instance, currently harbors Disney's "Alice in Wonderland", "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" and "The Panic in Needle Park".
Verdict: This queue belongs to an infantile escapist fascinated with life's seedy underbelly.
Like rings around an ancient oak, the Netflix Queue documents your cultural growth patterns, providing evidence of your secret obsessions (nothing but Nietzsche documentaries and "The Anarchist's Cookbook" for a month, eh?), your ambitions (25 films on how to break in to film), and the pinings of your inner child ("The Black Cauldron").
Unlike TiVo, which feeds only your most immediate, day-to-day entertainment preferences, Netflix allows you to curate in the long term, and stock your right brain's pantry with fruit picked from deep within the vaults of film history.
Naturally, all theories deserve testing—so I called 'round a few Hollywood folks to find out what's coming up, or has recently come up, in their red letter day.
"Netflix..the red envelopes, right?", said film director Larry Clark (pictured), shortly before checking to see what his latest delivery was: "La Vie En Rose."
Verdict: Time-strapped romantic who is too much of a workaholic to actually get to a movie theatre—but who heard that Marion Cotillard is a babe.
Power publicist Kelly Cutrone has "National Velvet" ("to watch with my daughter Ava"), "The Idol Maker" and "Best in Show".
Verdict: Super high-achiever with a bitchin' sense of humor, who may position her daughter to become a champion show jumper. Or a rock star.
Producer Brian Grazer (pictured), according to Michael Rosenberg (president of Imagine Entertainment), does not have a Netflix account because "he likes to go to see movies in movie theatres, with people, and popcorn."
Verdict: No Netflix, no soul.
Writer/director Sacha Gervasi, ("The Terminal", "Anvil! The Story of Anvil") has ordered "La Balance" (a 1982 French thriller directed by Bob Swaim), "Betty Blue: The Director's Cut" and "Riff Raff" by Ken Loach. With a Netflix queue like this, you don't need tea leaves or palmistry to know what's on Gervasi's mind.
Verdict: Likes French babes, would like to direct French babes.
Actress Daniela Sea of "The L Word" (pictured) said that while she doesn't have Netflix ("I move around too much"), she does regularly rent movies from the local video store, the most recent being the 1962 film adaptation of Eugene O'Neill's "Long Day's Journey into Night", and "Morvern Callar", about a girl who wakes up to find her writer boyfriend with his throat cut beneath the Christmas Tree.
Verdict: Introspective, individual, a seeker of meaning with a dark side. Especially morbid around the holidays.
Music photographer Piper Ferguson is has Netflix'd "Tempest", "Wanderlust" and "The Chocolate War" (Verdict: Pop culture junkie and total escapist with teenage rebellion bubbling in her veins), and Laura Whitcombe of the fashion line Label recently ordered Lars Von Triers' "Europa Europa" (Verdict: A lady of impeccable taste).

What's on your list?

July 7, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (2)

Mr Big becomes Mr Buzz

We hear that Chris "Mr Big" Noth has sheared the locks from his head, possibly to help him keep cool (it aint easy being hot shit, ya know?), or possibly for a new role, now that he's quit "Law & Order: Criminal Intent".
We were unable to find actual photos of Noth and his fresh new military-style crew cut, so instead The Stylephile offers you this realistic sans cheveaux rendering of Mr Big, as created by our highly able art department.
Noth looks pretty good, we think. Not too much like a rapist, and quite a bit like Bill Paxton's Chet character in "Weird Science".
Noth has just wrapped shooting the comedy "My One and Only" with Renee Zellweger.

July 7, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 1, 2008

Michael Jackson's clothing line--will it be Bad?

How badass would it be if Michael Jackson's hotly-anticipated clothing line turned out to be an entirely literal homage to the King of Pop's 35 year career?
Meaning: cod pieces, white Bedazzled gloves (worn one at a time), shoulder-padded leather jackets, and Moonwalk-friendly jazz shoes. Oh and let's not forget the accessories: oxygen masks, red lipstick, home skin-bleaching kits, Jheri Curl and, of course, a range of blankets.
No word on whether he'll be producing a children's line.
The collection, being produced in collabration with Ed Hardy and Christian Audigier, will be available exclusively at Kitson this Fall.
PS: Did you know there are people whose sole purpose in life is to track all known appearances of MJ's white glove? It's scary.

July 1, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

Project Runway's Jay McCarroll and his new doc

Project Runway fans will totally geek out over "Eleven Minutes", an hour-long feature documentary that reveals what happens after the reality TV cameras stop rolling. Focusing on season one winner/fashion bitch Jay McCarroll and the genesis of his post-Runway clothing line, the movie (being screened as part of this month's L.A. Outfest) has already been dubbed "a terrifying intro to the fashion industry", and "Project Runway on crack".
In the spirit of all good reality TV, it shows the gradual unraveling of Mr. McCarroll as he learns important lessons from almighty fashion PR and non-mincer-of-words Kelly Cutrone ("buyers don’t buy a first collection"), and comes to terms with his non-existent sex life. "My gay butt hasn’t seen much action lately,” he tells a reporter. "I've been stuck behind a sewing machine."
We're so in!
Eleven Minutes is being screened at L.A. Outfest on Wed, July 16 @ 8:30pm at the Ford Amphitheatre. Visit Outfest.org to buy tickets.

July 1, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 24, 2008

Your laptop wants a tattoo

Problem: You lust after Kat Von D, and dream of getting a Chinese Dragon half sleeve—but you're a Catholic Bishop. How can you possibly indulge your secret tattoo fantasy without being excommunicated?
Solution: Easy—visit Scott Campbell's Brooklyn tattoo shop Saved, which is laser etching full back pieces on to Mac laptops. The process costs $200, and you can use one of Campbell's designs or choose one by Mike Giant, Irak and others.
You don't have to live in New York to give your Mac a tattoo face lift either. Choose one of the designs from their website and they can ship you a beautifully-etched Mac screen which you can then have (professionally) attached to your keyboard. (They do work with PC's too, but you have to physically bring those in to the store.)
And when the Pope asks why your computer looks so divine...tell him it was a miracle.
Call the shop for details (718 486 0850) or visit www.mamatried.com.

June 24, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (1)

Giveaway: Better Bacon

 
Sometimes homeless people have the best style.
Sometimes two-year-olds make more sense than adults.
And sometimes special needs kids make cooler t-shirts than anyone else.
Case in point: Better Bacon tees. Designed entirely by kids and young adults with developmental disabilities, the line features hand-drawn graphics that are both poignant and fashion-forward, thanks to their DIY, Daniel Johnston-esque aesthetic (Kurt Cobain pictured wearing Daniel Johnston's amoeba tee).
Each item of clothing has a “Hang-Tag” featuring a Polaroid of the artist, a personal statement describing themselves and their creative outlets, and what they hope the consumer gets from the entire experience.
For instance, the "Out of Shape Banana" tee was created by Peewee who says: “I was taking the Velvet Underground CD cover out, and I decided to draw it. in reality I don’t know why I drew it, but I drew it. I don’t really care so much about the Velvet Underground cover; it’s more their songs I like. They got good music, and hopefully it would be nice if they put out more music like that.”
Better Bacon has no salaried employees, and the only individuals who profit from the line are the artists. The company pays each artist per design, per garment sold, regardless of profits.
Better Bacon is gifting one Stylephile reader a tee-shirt of their choice from the collection. To win, leave a comment describing one thing that inspires you to be creative. Deadline is Monday June 30 at 5PM.

June 24, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (9)

June 18, 2008

Obama prefers Hope

Fairey put 700 posters in to production, 350 of which would go on the street, bearing the words "Progress" or "Hope". When they sold out he made 10,000 more, and shortly before beginning his second production run, he heard word from Obama's people again—they loved 'Hope', and felt that was the best message for Fairey to pursue.
Fairey's next batch of posters was all ‘Hope’ and the rest, as  they say, is history.
The Obama campaign posters are sold out, to purchase other Shepard Fairey prints visit the Obey Giant store here.

June 18, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (1)

June 17, 2008

Nat Russell tees at Mollusk

What Citylights Books was to the Beatniks, Mollusk—the Bay Area surf store/art gallery—is to boho surfers. Mollusk, which has locations in Venice Beach and Brooklyn, is a great place to pick up tees, hoodies and tote bags bearing original, eclectic graphics that reflect the local Mission School art scene (many of its artists like Barry McGee, have exhibited at the gallery space.)  Collaborations with artists and musicians like Kyle Field and Oakland-based Nat Russell (Russell's designs are pictured) have resulted in tee-shirts with way more street cred than anything by Volcom.
Mollusk is located at 4500 Irving St, San Francisco, CA. Also at 1600 Pacific Ave, Venice, CA 90291 and 210 Kent Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11211. Buy here.

June 17, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

Catch the Alaia addiction

No, we're not talking Azzedine Alaïa—we're talking about the old-school wooden surf boards that the new breed of surfer bohemians are adopting as their board of choice.
Board shaper Tom Wegener's Alaias are among the most popular. Unlike mass-produced fiberglass boards, they contain no chemicals, are biodegradable and long-lasting and promise wave-riders a unique experience—although be warned, this is not a board for beginners. Based on designs created by ancient Hawaiian watermen, Wegener crafts his boards  from sustainable plantation-grown Paulownia wood, hand-shaping them and coating them with linseed oil.
Expect a lifetime's worth of surf magic.
Tom Wegener's Alaias cost between $410 and $900. Buy here.

June 17, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

Couch surfer

You know there's more to surf films than Spicoli in "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" and Point Break's Johnny Utah, right?
Take a bite out of the contemporary surf film movement and lose yourself in the dreamy, romantic seascapes of surf filmmaker Thomas Campbell. A member of the Moonshine Conspiracy, a surf-artist crew that counts Jack Johnson and The Malloy Brothers among its members, Campbell's documentaries "Sprout" and "The Seedling" (shot on 16mm film) capture the laid-back, graceful vibe of the surfing subculture, with a nod to the old-school 70s California vibe. "Sprout" (2004) changed the way people looked at surfing, and features some of the sport's greatest, like Rob Machado, Belinda Baggs, Joel Tudor, Dan Malloy, Tom “Weggy” Wegener, and C.J. Nelson. "The Seedling" focuses on a small band of California logriders.
To see a trailer for Campbell's latest film "The Present" (out this Fall), click here.
For something to make you smile, click here.
Thomas Campbell’s work was featured in the Beautiful Losers exhibition, curated by Aaron Rose and Christian Strike. Buy his movies here.

June 17, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 10, 2008

If your daddy likes old-fashioned music...

If your stuck-in-a-time-warp daddy has nothing but Brahms, Beethoven and Beatles on his iPod, he should consider getting speakers that match his Stone Age sensibility. This cast ceramic gramophone by Tristan Zimmerman for Science+Sons could literally work in a cave—it functions without external power or batteries.
This Father's Day, show Pops how to plug in the earbuds from his iPod or MP3player and enjoy the au naturel horn acoustics, warm, rich and resonant.
$495 from A Plus R.com. Buy here.

June 10, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

If your daddy was a club kid...

Remember the Nineties, when you used to come home from a night out only to find your saucer-eyed daddy and his friends still breakdancing by the pool? Relive those heady days by gifting him a charm bracelet by Toy Me!, which replaces the usual silver mementos with reproductions of infamous ecstasy pills, including the Smiley Face, Mitsubishi, Don't Take, Love, Heart and Question Mark. Created by Milan designer Georgo Phillip Pecenikov (a.k.a. Gogo), each piece is hand cast in silver and plated with rhodium (the most reflective of the precious metals). Gogo, who hails from a family of traditional high-end jewelry artisans, knows that in the 21st century, jewels are the drug of choice.
$240 from A Plus R. Buy here.

June 10, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (2)

If your daddy's a weekend playa...

Boys will be boys, so if daddy must go on yet another weekend "fishing trip" with Uncle Bob, then at least make sure he goes in style.
Have him pack his worms and tackle in a gold Icarus Unisex Weekender by Leonello Borghi, an oversexed—I mean—oversized unisex Italian calfskin satchel.
If he protests, remind him that not only is Leonello Borghi the highest performing men's bag at Barney's, it also counts fashion icons like Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen as fans.
That'll get Uncle Bob excited.
$879 at Barney’s New York.

June 10, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (2)

If your daddy likes a tipple...

After a hard night at the lap-dancing club, some dads love nothing better than sitting alone in their study with a tumbler of fine cognac, and contemplating how much they love their wife and kids. Zwello.com's The Cognac Glass melds function and pleasure with a tipped design, meant to highlight bouquet, temperature and volume. The glass highlights the rich color and movement of cognac, with hypnotic effect. Also available in a small size for savoring rich liqueurs.
A set of two is $45. Visit www.zwello.com or click here.

June 10, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

If your daddy's too cool for plastic...

Send your newly earth-conscious papa to Whole Foods toting one of these: an H’Oat Couture eco-friendly carry-all made from used coffee, feed, money, and flour sacks, colorful fabrics and authentic sail ties.
Made by WeBe Bags, these colorful totes launched at this year's Sundance, where rapper 50 Cent requested fifty for him and his friends. (If you were in Cannes, you may remember WeBe bags—they were the official bag of the festival.)
The bags retail for $32-$100 and are available at Fred Segal in Santa Monica.
www.webebags.com.

June 10, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 5, 2008

What to gift your gay boyfriend for Pride '08

Whether you're proud, closeted or hag, we urge you to celebrate this weekend's Gay Pride with a beautifully-packaged condom from ONE condoms' Pride Mix. The only condom company with themed, gay-friendly packaging, ONE has been in the rubber biz for 21 years, and their Pride Mix is a consistent best-seller. One features a photo of Alexander The Great, with the wording "He was ONE". Others feature packaging  photos of buff-bodied boys, while a few are more lovey-dovey, showing committed guys wearing wedding tuxes or kissing on the cheek. Something for everyone.
ONE hopes to achieve distribution in major drug stores by next year, and is also coming out with a line of dams for the ladies in '09...no word on whether they'll be using photos of Samantha Ronson and La Lohan for those.
Buy here.

June 5, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 3, 2008

Working class aesthetic, bougie prices: denim by Earnest Sewn

For a company that makes no bones about its infatuation with the American working class aesthetic, Earnest Sewn Denim offers some pretty swanky jeans. With custom pairs selling for a few hundred dollars a piece, it’s hard to imagine Midwestern farmers and big-rig truck drivers shelling out a month’s wages for these denim threads, but it’s clear that those aren’t the Americans that Earnest Sewn is catering to. The upscale line offers clients the opportunity to customize nearly every component of their jeans, from the buttons to the cut to the crucial pocket lining.
Patrons of the spacious New York concept store can while the time away dinking espresso from the coffee bar or trying on a new pair of  Repetto Zizi’s (the lifelong shoe of choice for French pop auteur Serge Gainsbourg). The store doubles as a work shop and the staff prepares all of the custom jeans in-house.
Though the DIY jeans customization is Earnest Sewn’s bread and butter, the company offers a broad range of pre-designed options for men and women that make it easy for non-New Yorkers to get their denim fix. For men, the slim Iggy fit jean in jet black stands out as one of the better style choices, eschewing the acid-washed, baggy look for a tight fit that’s a bit more sleek and understated than Earnest Sewn’s typical designs. Currently, the store’s website doesn’t allow you to design custom pants online, and phoning in an order can be rather tedious, so customers anxious to indulge in the full Earnest Sewn experience must make the trip out to Gotham.
(On a Gainsbourg-related musical tangent, aficionados should check out the recently issued “Cannabis” soundtrack featuring some wonderful music written by Serge and “Melody Nelson” arranger Jean-Claude Vannier. Though not as revelatory or avant-garde as that 1971 magnum opus, “Cannabis” offers some pleasant, if subdued, classical cues and funky rock instrumentals.)
Earnest Sewn, 821 Washington St., New York, NY, 10014. (212) 675 0553

June 3, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 8, 2008

Jean Paul Gaultier's new eyeliner/concealer pen for guys

Jean Paul Gaultier has been making guys' make-up since 2003. And just in case you didn't get the memo, here's an update on his latest "guyliner". The Tout Beau Sharp Eyes Kohl Pen & Concealer is a dual action pen, with a concealer on one end to erase dark circles under the eyes, and a black kohl tip on the other end, perfect for that smudgy Kurt Cobain look. Not only will this pen add nighttime drama to your guy's look, it will also prevent him from ever borrowing your makeup bag again.
Other items in Gaultier's "Monsieur" line include an "undetectable" matte powder bronzer complete with pocket applicator for dandies on the go. He draws the line at lip gloss and mascara—for now.
Buy here.

May 8, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (1)

May 6, 2008

Pre-romanced leather working boots by wings + horns

Pre-distressed leather working boots by wings + horns scream of dusty highways and moonlit romance, endowing the wearer with instant boho cred. Here's the secret: before they hit the shelves, they are soaked and then wrapped in a ball, where they dry in the fetal position, and emerge as ready-made hobo footwear for the Blackberry generation.
They can be found sold at Blackbird (Seattle), Fred Segal (LA) and Stel's (Boston).
 

May 6, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 29, 2008

Gordon Rush knows bottoms are sexy

In some cultures it's considered terribly bad manners to show someone the bottom of your feet. But I think they'd let you off if you happened to be wearing a pair of Gordon Rush's goat skin slip-ons, which boast one of the prettiest printed leather soles we've ever seen. 
It's almost a shame they're hidden on the underside of the shoe...although the tops are sleek and sexy enough to impress, all by themsleves.
Buy here.

April 29, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (1)

April 22, 2008

Harmony Korine, back for more

Were it not for Harmony Korine, life might have been very different for edgy leading ladies like Chloë Sevigny and Rosario Dawson. Korine wrote the screenplay for "Kids", the infamous tale of drug-addled, morally-bankrupt youth in New York. Directed by Larry Clark, the movie made stars of Sevigny (who once dated Harmony Korine) and Dawson, and came to epitomize the white-trash obsessed, hipster skateboard subculture of the 1990s.
Korine went on to make cult favorites "Gummo" and "julien donkey-boy", and wrote Larry Clark's semi-pornographic Ken Park. After a break of eight years or so, he returns with "Mister Lonely", an endearing celluloid oddity about a Michael Jackson impersonator (Diego Luna) who falls in love with a Marilyn Monroe lookalike (Samantha Morton) at a commune populated by other faux 20th century icons in the Scottish Highlands. Director Werner Herzog plays a Panamanian priest in a seemingly unrelated storyline about a miraculous group of flying nuns (look out for Herzog's entirely improvised scene with an eccentric, tearful local).
"Mister Lonely" was screened at the Silent Movie Theatre in LA on Saturday, and I spotted Miranda July, and someone who looked very much like Chloë Sevigny hanging around, looking slouchy and beautiful.
Korine treated us to an amusing Q&A session after the movie, grimacing when asked questions like "what's your process", but relishing the telling of many wild and colorful stories about how he made the film. Some of them, (like how he decided to not shoot the movie in Iceland after meeting a creepy location manager who was wearing a see-through nightgown and had four frozen horses in her house) sounded almost as fantastical as the movie itself.
(Photo of Harmony Korine (L) with a fan at the Silent Movie Theatre)

April 22, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (3)

April 9, 2008

Euro-phile: Is your man a Topman?

It's been Topshop this, Topshop that, what with the Kate Moss collection and the upcoming store in New York. 
But what about Topman? Topman is the oft-overlooked menswear arm of the UK's Topshop brand, and they carry plenty of low(ish) cost, of-the-moment looks for dandies around the world.
Their modish collection of men's shoes is TDF (check out these white leather brogues) and Topman has plenty of smart options for grown-up boys going through a blazer moment. And of course, they ship to the U.S.—just ignore the ghastly exchange rate, and you'll be in Pete Doherty fashion heaven.

April 9, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

Euro-phile: Wanna meet a Norwegian polar bear?

Do you have a penchant for furry, fluffy man-eaters? 
Then luxury travel firm Abercrombie and Kent is offering seriously intrepid travelers a unique opportunity.  
With their experieinced guide Mats Forsberg (who has guided BBC production teams into the region's polar bear habitat), you can venture into Norway's Arctic wilderness and follow the trail of the polar bear. The plan being to actually find one. 
This vacation is not for the faint of heart—weather conditions are hardly balmy (think 17 degrees and high winds on a clement day) and you'll camp for at least one night. But it's way more interesting than a week in Orlando. 
Here's how one adventurer described the experience: "We ski to a ridge with views of both the den and the ocean pack ice, and we wait, absorbed by the sparkling silence. Soon the mother polar bear emerges, nosing the air and scanning the surrounding empty pack ice. She then belly-slides headfirst down the snowy slope. Two cubs follow, tumbling and rolling into a furry heap at their mother's feet. She ushers them toward an iceberg, moving them gently along with her massive paws. It's time for a hunting lesson."
 You'll ski, snowmobile and camp your way through Spitsbergen, the last protected natural polar bear habitat. With a bear population of 4,500, chances of sighting one are supposedly excellent. (As are the chances of freezing your boobies off.) Once in bear country, you're entirely dependent on yourself, your equipment, and your guide's knowledge and experience. If you make it home alive and uneaten, you'll have enough dinner party stories to last a lifetime. 
The company is booking departures for March 2009, with prices at around $14,490 per person. Click here for more info.

April 9, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 3, 2008

Sonic boom

OK, OK, so the boombox revival's pretty played out already. But I can't help but have a crush on Paul Smith's Sugarhill Gang-inspired laptop case. It makes a great gift for friends and relatives who take their jobs too seriously. Since most humans store music in their iTunes thesedays, the design is zeitgeistally à propos. And it'll make a great conversation starter on plane trips, especially if combined with a sheet of cardboard, Afrika Bambaataa's "Planet Rock", and some in-flight pop-locking.
$425. Buy here.

April 3, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 21, 2008

Oh, the horror: Michael Musto as Lindsay Lohan as Marilyn

Bringing us multiple layers of warpedness, Michael Musto, the Village Voice columnist who reputedly coined the term "celebutard", recreates Lindsay Lohan's "New York" magazine Marilyn Monroe spread—right down to the brassy yellow wig.
The resemblance is...horrifying wouldn't you say?

March 21, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (1)

March 18, 2008

Bow tie masta

If you're 35 and you still have to ask your mom to help you tie your bow tie, then help is at hand. Rugby Ralph Lauren has created a series of online dressing tutorials that will make getting ready for weddings, Bar Mitzvahs and Oscar parties a breeze.
In one video, a buff young man with lush lips demonstrates the five simple steps to mastering the elusive bow tie. Another shows you how to cuff your pants. The vids live on YouTube, and on the Rugby Ralph Lauren website which also features their Spring collection of preppy styles for men and women. Think slim-fitting chinos, bow-ties, lots of madras, shrunken blazers, vests, and of course rugbys.
Cricket, anyone?

March 18, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 17, 2008

America's most stylish mayor?

In New York, Hillary almost posed for Vogue (she backed out, last minute).
In Paris, president Nicolas Sarkozy shacked up with a supermodel.
And in L.A., Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa is blazing a fashion trail, establishing himself as the most stylish politico the city has ever seen.
But don't expect the crush-worthy Villaraigosa, who loves runway shows and took the podium at last year's L.A. Fashion Awards, to ditch his somber councilman's suits any time soon. Rather, you should think of him as LA's Fashion Enabler, a closeted hipster who gladly opened up his backyard to fashionistas last week for a cocktail party and celebration of eco-style. The invitation-only FutureFashion L.A. event (hosted by Designers & Agents, the CFDA and Earth Pledge) was held on the sprawling lawn of Getty House, the mock Tudor mansion that is the official residence of the Mayor of Los Angeles.
 Surrounding a small pond at the back of the lawn were a dozen or so eco-designs by mainly local designers, including Magda Berliner, Trina Turk, Trovata, and Bahar Shahpar. Each designer had created their piece using various eco-fabrics given to them by Earth Pledge, an organization that helps designers and manufacturers transition to sustainable fabrics.
 My favorite garment was this huge bell-sleeved caftan by VPL (pictured), made from organic wool jersey and organic cotton indigo denim.
 Hob-nobbers included David Hiller, L.A. Times publisher, and all the usual L.A. fashion suspects. I saw Rose Apodaca, who wrote most of the L.A. Times' magazine's Spring fashion issue. Davis Factor, the Max Factor heir who runs Smashbox studios with his brother. Trina Turk and her extremely tall husband. My friend, the fashion designer Rachel Pally. And the mayor's two fashion-crazy daughters, including Prisila Villar (pictured),  who is studying at FIT in New York. The mayor's girls are, it turns out, his secret fashion weapon, and it was on their encouragement that the entire event took place.
 Oddly, there was no sign of Linda Loudermilk, one of L.A.'s best-known eco-designers. Also absent was Diane Von Furstenberg, president of the CFDA.
But I did meet a man who looked like pirate.
 Are you in fashion? I asked the man, who, it turns out, is the fabulous Russian painter Alexey Steele (pictured).
"Actually, I'm in anti-fashion," he said, snickering. "I paint nudes."

March 17, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 11, 2008

Men: Are you denim co-dependent?

When you buy demin, do you pick up a dozen pairs of the same look so you don't have to shop for another decade? Do you get separation anxiety when your favorite pair of jeans is in the washer?
If so, then you may be suffering from Denim Co-Dependency, a debilitating emotional condition common among FCDs (Fashion Cautious Dudes). Now is the time to break the cycle, and with Bonobos (named after the most sexually-active chimp in the world, no less) there is a solution.
Bonobos makes pants. Slacks. That's right, trousers goddamn it. And if you happen to have a nice butt, be prepared for some attention. Bonobos are form-fitting, and cut to enhance a man's natural attributes. Purr.
Made from wool, stretch corduroy, twill and other soft, light-weight fabrics, you won't find much denim in this collection, and with good reason—there's quite enough of it in the world.
Bonobos is offering Stylephile readers $10 off any pair of Bonobos pants purchased before May 1. Simply visit their website and type in the promotion code "stylephile" for your discounted pair!

March 11, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (1)

March 6, 2008

Fierce "Project Runway" giftbags for Stylephile readers

Last night, Project Runway's winning designer Christian Siriano picked up his check for $100,000 at the Project Runway Finale Party, hosted by TRESemmé and Tim Gunn at the Tribeca Grand Hotel in New York City. After seeing Christian's jawdropping show at New York Fashion Week in February, it was no surprise to me that he won.
I wasn't at the party, but I did convince the lovely folks at Project Runway to set aside ten of the party swagbags for the readers of the Stylephile. I know how much y'all love that show.
The first ten readers to comment to this post (don't forget to tell us your email address) will be sent a bag in the mail!
Here's to Season Five!

March 6, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (45)

March 3, 2008

Vote with your feet

If you're a cigar-smoking political strategist with Masonic ties and a penchant for vacationing in Nantucket, you or your grandfather may enjoy these rather fancy political slippers by Stubbs and Wootton.
That's right, even footwear carries political heft in this election year.
If you're a Democrat, you'll love the donkey design embroidered into the luxe indoor shoe. For those with Republican tendencies, there's the elephantine version. And if you're neutral, you could buy both pairs and wear a different one on each foot. Stubbs and Wootton has yet to create the Gore shoe, which features a dying penguin on the front.
These puppies will set you back a sexy $400. Now there's a political contribution.

March 3, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 29, 2008

Kenneth Cole launches his own Huffington Post

If you thought fashion people were all shallow, insecure decadents obsessed with aesthetics and themselves, then you were right. Mostly.
Shoe-meister man Kenneth Cole, however, can claim to possess a smidgen of social conscience. Not only does he feature two very well-heeled lesbians and their cute kid on the homepage of his website, he has started the AWEARNESS Blog, which looks like his socially-conscious answer to the Huffington Post.
"I have been a reasonably successful, designer, businessman, parent, and philanthropist but I've always been a frustrated activist," he writes in his mission statement. "This venting arena is the perfect venue for personal expression and for encouraging genuine change (not to mention taking some of the pressure off of my pharmacologist)."
His contributors' list is certainly worthy—one writer is an acquaintance of mine named Sam Slovic, a noted L.A. writer who exposed the reality of the many homeless people living in L.A.'s Skid Row. Also on board is David Hershkovits, co-founder of Paper magazine. He has posted three blogs so far, one about the upcoming Earth Hour (at 8PM on March 29, millions of people around the world will turn off their electricity and work it cave-man style for an hour.) Oh, and "Good" magazine founder Ben Goldhirsh and singer KT Tunstall are contributors too. I especially enjoyed a recent blog post on Islamofacism by the turban-wearing Sonny Caberwal (pictured), who starred in a Kenneth Cole advertising campaign.
Kenneth himself contributed a thoughtful piece on whether we should control how skinny American models should be, as is the case on the Spanish runway. "I'm not big on imposing my perspective on others," he says, "But I think  we, the industry, all view these models (on and off the runway) as role models that we've created, and should carefully consider the message they are sending to our children."
Aside from a story about a dress made from condoms and the anorexic model debate, there is surprisingly little fashion coverage on the blog thus far. So, Kenneth, I look forward to more posts about the green fashion movement—fashion is, after all, one of the least environmentally-friendly industries on the planet (it takes hundreds of gallons of water to create just one pair of jeans).

February 29, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 27, 2008

Showerhead that looks like a solar system

Like the Hydra, the mythical Greek serpent of the sea, this space-age bathroom accessory possesses many heads. Five to be precise. Each of these five spinning ports (which rotate 120 times per minute) delivers pressurized streams of water, generating the kind of wake-up hydrotherapy that your puny one-headed shower can only dream of. This chrome-plated bathtime gadget looks a little like a solar system, with its outer ring that holds 32 spouts, creating a wide and soothing downpour designed to soothe the sorest muscles and joints. Even though it looks like a torture device from Mars. Buy here for under $100.

February 27, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 14, 2008

The La-Z-Boy Spa

Life doesn't get much lazier than this—the La-Z-Boy spa, complete with in-spa TV screen and floating remote. As you'd expect, the underwater seating is as comfy as modern technology allows, with "Reclina-Seats" and 14 built-in jet massage patterns that replicate professional masseuse techniques.
We think it's the wireless entertainment center, though, that'll get some folks really excited. It features a top-of-the-line 17 ” LCD submersible flat screen TV (goggles anyone?), and an LED lighting system around the entire topside, for added night-time ambiance. With one touch of your wireless remote, you'll be able to to start up your spa, launch the DVD player, energize the retractable speakers, and turn on your favorite Barry White CD.
All it needs now is a mini-bar, "Playboy TV" subscription and blow-up doll.

February 14, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 4, 2008

Get on your knees and pray, it's Loden Dager

Loden Dager brought new meaning to the term “church suit” when they staged their Fall/Winter show in a seminary on Manhattan’s Lower East Side.
There were no hats, gloves or rosaries in the church, but we did see several male models slouching in stained glass windows, looking just how Catholic saints oughtta look—divine.
Loden Dager is a five-person design collective comprising two main designers, Oliver Helden and Paul Marlow, who decided to start the label while working together at Marc by Marc Jacobs. Within 24 hours of a very productive lunch, they found a backer, Melissa Vail, to take care of the business side of Loden Dager. Matthew Sandager takes care of graphic design and photography, and Alexander Galan looks after public relations. The name Loden Dager is a mix of their surnames.
And now, they are officially hot shit.
 Winner of the Ecco Domani Fashion Foundation award for new talent, they were featured in Paper magazine last month, are putting out a record by music makers The Great Lakes, and, in the ultimate hipster nod—one of the Blonde Redhead guitar twins was at the church party. Praise Jesus! In fact, Loden Dager are so of the moment, they have been guest blogging on “The Moment”, the New York Times' style blog.

Despite all this chatter, the show itself was, perfectly well-spoken. It was, I hear, less queer than their previous “fashion installations”, which have drawn inspiration from the transgender, cross-dressing and dyke communities. But color was still strong (the label uses custom-dyed fabrics only), and Loden Dager continues to provide us with intelligent, practical men’s looks that would fit just as well on a 1960s Parisian student protestor as they would on Al Pacino in “The Panic in Needle Park” (both of which are cited as influencing of the line).
At this moment, Loden Dager’s hot shit continues to steam.

Buy Loden Dager at Odin, Ron Herman, and Hejfina.

February 4, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

Jack Kerouac’s boots

These boots were made for walking—they belonged to original Beat Jack Kerouac, whose diet of red wine, peyote and cross-country road trips have inspired generations of seekers to hit the tar.
The shoes, along with various other Kerouac artifacts, are currently on display at the New York Public Library, as part of an exhibit called “Beatific Soul: Jack Kerouac On The Road”. For anyone with an interest in the Beats, it’s a must-see. (His wistful, scuffed work boots for a start—you can a lot about a person from their shoes, and these have “alcoholic Buddhist-Catholic iconoclast” written all over them.)
The first thing you are met with is a 50 foot long typescript scroll, the manuscript of "On The Road" typed on endless connected sheets of architectural paper, unfurled so that they travel along the length of the hall to create one long, uninterrupted “road” of prose. It is peppered with edits made by Kerouac himself—he substituted the word “fucking” with “balling” on several occasions, because of his publisher’s concerns about profanity. You’ll find original letters written between Allen Ginsberg, William Burroughs, Neal Cassady, Herbert Hunke and Kerouac, in which they discuss the growing Beat revolution. (Herbert Huncke, a bisexual Times Square hustler, reluctant writer, junkie and Kinsey subject, had introduced Kerouac to the notion of “beat” as metaphysical condition in 1946...the photographs of Huncke, jaded, sunken and decayed, are truly moving.)
I love the profile photograph of Kerouac shot by Allen Ginsberg, the displays of Kerouac’s own paintings and sketches, and excerpts from his impassioned writings on Buddhism, which describe why he thought Zen was the Devil’s work. And then there are the candid photographs of Kerouac with his third wife Stella, taken shortly before his death in 1969 a from liver cirrhosis.
For those fashionistas currently in New York, the library (right next to the tents) really is a great place to hang out in between shows. Simply check in your heavy gift bags at the cloakroom (marvelous invention) take a stroll around the Kerouac exhibit, and visit the wonderful bookstore. Then make like you don’t have a Blackberry/iPhone and check your email at one of the computers on the third floor. Refuse the instinct to shun such vulgar communal practices and instead, feel those wood-paneled walls, absorb the learnedness...you’ll be rewarded with far more than your recommended daily dose of inspiration.

Beatific Soul: Jack Kerouac On The Road is at the New York Public Library’s Humanities and Social Sciences Library until February 24, and then again from March 1 – 16.

February 4, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (1)

Duckie Brown stays strong and silent

You could have heard a pin drop during Friday’s Duckie Brown show, which was conducted in funereal silence throughout. It was an interesting move on their part, freeing up the audience’s senses and encouraging us to focus on just one thing—the clothes. Novel idea!
The show featured 21 largely somber, tailored looks in a palette of charcoal, onyx and storm cloud, with splashes of burgundy and green thrown in to lift the recessionary mood a little. This Fall/Winter 08 collection was considerably more muted than their Spring/Summer offerings, which featured floral prints, gaudy golds and canary yellow trench coats.
Despite the depressed mood (we’re at war, remember?), youthful splashes like Duckie Brown’s trademark oversized beanie hats, spangled shirts and reflective nylon windbreakers worn over suits, injected a baggy, collegiate insouciance in to what could have been an overly pessimistic collection.
Seated next to me was Celeste Harwell, an Associate Publisher at TIME Style and Design magazine. We agreed that the silence was golden, and enjoyed the gentle rustle of cameras shuttering as the models made their turns. “I love that sound,” purred Celeste. Being that I’m a New York Fashion Week ingénue, she pointed out who was seated front row. There was iconic fashion photographer (and former milliner) Bill Cunningham, whose “On The Street” column for the New York Times is required reading for anyone with stylish blood running through their veins. (I later spotted L.A.’s queen of celebrity style Rachel Zoe rightfully paying her respects. “I’m such a huge fan,” she gushed.) Seated next to Cunningham was the Washington Post’s fashion commentator Robin Givhan, whose no-nonsense take on politico style (tough beat!) earned her the Pulitzer Prize for criticism in 2006, a first for a fashion writer.
Click here to read Givhan’s take on what the election frontrunners are wearing, and why.
 

February 4, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (2)

January 31, 2008

Scarves that button up

In a nod to European union, Swedish brand SoloUniko created their name by blending the Spanish words for "one" and "only".
That's because all the items in their collection are limited edition, quirky, tailored pieces that refer to the traditional, and defer to the original at all times.
The designers are based in London, and it shows—they just love using Saville Row fabrics, fine tweeds and woolens in distinguished shades of gray, coal and navy.
I love this button-up winter scarf because not only is it classic, it's also practical. Never again will your scarf accidentally dip in to your lunchtime soup.

January 31, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 28, 2008

Richard Meier timekeepers

Architect Richard "Getty Center" Meier has brought his simple, elegant vision to timekeeping, creating this anti-bling watch for Swiss firm Pierre Junod. The watch has a sapphire crystal, stainless steel case and the 12 squares on the face and the hands are visible in the dark.
Aside from Meier's autograph on the face, it's a simple, classic design that may be even too minimalist for some. But for those who enjoy a unisex design with clean lines, this is the timepiece for you.
Junod are fans of the celebrity collaboration, having brought on star architects, artists and product designers—from Michael Graves to André Ricard—to design time pieces for them.

January 28, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 7, 2008

Men and their faces

I hate the word "metrosexual". Aside from the fact it is passé, I dislike the way it quietly perpetuates the myth that guys who care about their appearance must be at least a little bit gay. As though only "girly men" would ever dream of taking care of their skin. Pah!
The male skincare business is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the beauty industry, and for a good reason. Guys, whether or not they read "GQ" and "Men's Health", are realizing that slapping on Trader Joe's All Purpose Hand Cream twice a year won't cut it anymore.
For the record, the dawning of a new era of skin consciousness among men is not a turn-off, not to me at least. There's a big difference between watching a dude spend hours in front of the mirror strategically applying pomade, and watching him simply invest in a good moisturizer. I think it's up there with taking your vitamins and working out.
But listen up boys, it's actually not a good idea to simply swipe your girlfriend's cream. Men and women have very different facial skin, with different needs. So unless your girlfriend happens to have a beard like you do, you should check out one of the many skincare lines designed specifically for guys, like Jack Black, ZIRH, Baxter of California and Menscience Androceuticals.
Then, start using an SPF moisturizer every day. Acquaint your male self with the term AHA.  Read blogs like Grooming Health and Men Essentials. And then marvel when, on your 54th birthday, you don't look all craggy and groupie-worn, like our friend Robert Plant.

January 7, 2008 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 10, 2007

Beckham's yawnworthy Armani ads

Here's a glance at the Beckham/Armani ad campiagn coming out in February. It was shot by prolific fashion photography duo Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott, aka Mert and Marcus. Most reactions toward this image seem to focus on the plentiful contents of Mr Beckham's underwear. Whatevs. My first thoughts are that this image seems dated. It does not tell us anything new about Armani, or about the subject being shot. It's narcissistic homo-eroticism at its most blandly predictable. I would have preferred a photograph that told more of a story...maybe Victoria Beckham wearing the underwear and Beckham (fully clothed) trying to tear them from her body. Or Beckham looking solemnly toward stage right, with a pair of the briefs on his head.  Or, quite simply, Beckham naked. No underwear in sight. This just looks like a page ripped out of BUTT magazine in 2001. Yaaaaaawn.

December 10, 2007 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (4)

Sample sales for boys

I received an email from a reader, TV/film director Michael Addis, requesting more info on sample sales for men. It's true, men do often get left out of the fashion loop, and it's not fair.  So I compiled a list of a few upcoming sample sales that should yield plenty of bargains for XY chromosome-holders.
PS: Addis also asked that I check out his wife's boutique, Poolside in Santa Monica. I haven't had a chance to visit yet, but I think it is very romantic that Mr. Addis (who has directed "The Showbiz Show with David Spade" for Comedy Central) clearly cares about fashion and his wife. What a guy!

The Saturday Sale takes place 12/15 and 12/22 from 10am to 3:30pm with 50% to 85% off men's and womens' name-brand clothing and accessories by Streets Ahead, My Tribe, Timmy Woods, David Cline, Young Fabulous and Broke, English Laundry, Antik Denim tees, Side Effects, Single, Loco Lindo, Komarov, City Girl, Rocawear and more. California Market Center, 110 East 9th St., Downtown Los Angeles. Enter off Olympic. $1 entry fee.

The Paul Frank Holiday Warehouse Sale is on Saturday 12/15 (9am-4pm ) and Sunday 12/16 (10am-2pm) with up to 65% off signature tees, hoodies, accessories and more. Paul Frank Industries, 960 W. 16th St., Costa Mesa, 92627. Cash and credit card only.

Lisa Kline's warehouse clearance sale started Saturday 12/8 and lasts thru 1/22, with up to 70% savings on Madison, Manoush, Vince, Fred Perry, Ever, and Modern Amusement. 140 S. Robertson Blvd., Beverly Hills. Tel: 310 246 0907. Cash, check and credit card accepted.

The James Jeans showroom at the Cooper Building downtown is having a sample sale on weekdays through 12/21 with pricing at below wholesale. 860 S. Los Angeles St., #200, Los Angeles. Credit card and cash.

Hank Player is opening up their factory warehouse to the public for a sale, which lasts through 12/15 , daily from 10am to 4pm. Tees that retail at $60-$70 are now $20, Hoodies that sell for $90-$100 are now $40. You'll also find pants, tanks and more. Everything is made right here in L.A.. 11129 Van Owen, North Hollywood, 91605. Cash and credit card only.

December 10, 2007 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 5, 2007

Gary Baseman's vinyl dolly

I just received an email from the artist Gary Baseman telling me that his White HotChaChaCha, an albino three-legged wily imp, has been made into a limited edition vinyl toy. It went on sale today, exclusively on his website. The limited edition  pieces (only 300 were made) just went on sale for $110, so if you're interested in getting one you should visit the website now, before they are all gone. Vinyl toy collecting is a big thing these days, apparently...
I have known Gary for a couple of years, and have always enjoyed his talent and his mischievous personality. Did you know that Gary won an Emmy in 2000 for his animated ABC/Disney show, Teacher's Pet?
Here's a photo of him and the lovely young artist Natalia Fabia, who recently had a packed opening at the Corey Helford gallery in Culver City. Among the paintings was a portrait of yours truly, dressed as like a flamenco dancer dragging a suitcase across the African plains.

December 5, 2007 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 19, 2007

More L.A. genius

A helpful Stylephile reader helped me identify "the guy in the loud baseball cap" pictured in an earlier post about Tarina Tarantino's party last week.

He is, it turns out, Cisco Adler, son of old-skool playboy Lou Adler, the Grammy-winning record producer who owns the Roxy and made a baby with Britt Ekland.

Cisco, it turns out, is following in his daddy's footsteps, dating some of the most slutty luscious starlets in H-wood, from Mischa Barton to Kimberly Stewart.

And just like his pa, Adler Jnr. is making records, working with  rapper/provocateur Mickey Avalon and with Lisa D'Amato, "America's Next Top Model" alum. D'Amato's first single, "My Name Is Lisa", boasts the most genius video ever. If you've ever wondered how Young Hollywood likes to party these days, just take a look...

(Photo: Lacroix/WireImage)

November 19, 2007 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 9, 2007

Where Hollywood agents love to party

Metromix, Tribune's youth-oriented lifestyle website, has published its definitive guide to where Hollywood agents love to "booze and schmooze" in Los Angeles.

They advise you never to enter the Writer’s Bar at Raffles L'Ermitage without "a suit, a BlackBerry, and an 'I run this town' aura", adding that the best way to tell "actual agents from those seeking agents" is to look at who is enjoying the caviar, and who's "digging for one more dollar for a $8 beer".

At X Bar at the Hyatt Lounge, "seasoned agents talk about themselves in the lounge...while their assistants double-fist gin-and-tonics and BlackBerrys on the patio where, of course, they talk about their bosses talking about themselves and count the days until they fill their bosses' shoes."

And "according to one ICM assistant, the morning office gossip is always about who was sipping what with so-and-so at Craft".

Read the full story here.

(Photo of Hollywood players Ari Emanuel, Thomas Schlamme and Bradley Whitford, shot by Caulfield Archv/WireImage)

November 9, 2007 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 2, 2007

Tuck thyself in, Beckham!

David Beckham arrived at the AFI Fest opening night gala looking like he'd just had a roll in the hay with his beloved, Posh Spice. Usually so dapper, Beckham looked more hobo science teacher than millionaire style icon, with his buttoned-up Argyle cardigan, dull tie, plaid trucker shirt, and shirttails flapping in the breeze. Only thing missing was a packet of Bali Shag rolling tobacco sticking out his jeans pocket.
We don't understand. Untucked shirts are so...2004. Perhaps his sloppiness was a sign of rebellion? A studied attempt to contrast the soberly-suited film executives? Or is he merely depressed, after Galaxy lost its crucial end-of-season match last week?
We can forgive Beckham his missed opportunities on the soccer field. But messy layering? Never.
(Photo: WireImage/Aussenard)

November 2, 2007 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 25, 2007

Dude, Where's My Diaper?

Bottles, diapers, wipes, burp cloths... well, these may not be the cool items new dads are excited to carry around but thanks to Diaper Dude fashionable fathers can at least have something cool to put everything in. Brad Pitt, David Arquette, Ben Stiller and Matthew Broderick are just a few of the dudes who tote this bag around town. ($60.00/ available at http://diaperdude.com) (M.McNiece)

September 25, 2007 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 23, 2007

So Glad for Mad Men

The show opens with a man soliciting a light for his Lucky Strike. We hear the scratch of a match and the clink of a drink. Say hello to "Mad Men," the new AMC series with enough wit, smarts and style to make you want to save up for a big screen TV and ruin your eyes as you watch from just inches away. Never has The Stylephile wished so badly to be transported back in time to an era in which women pecked at typewriters while men commandeered corner offices.

Set in 1960, "Mad Men" revolves around the lupine gents at a Madison Avenue ad agency. Sure, pretty dames doll up the scenery. But we love the look of the men with their impeccable glen plaid suits, tie pins, and overcoats. And not one of these guys has a hair out of place. Even the cad of the crew manages to seem chivalrous, thanks to a skinny tie and a dab of pomade. 

Costume designer Janie Bryant--an Emmy winner for her work on "Deadwood"--scoured old "Like" and "Look" magazines to perfect the monolithic style of menswear back in that time period. She also credits classic films like "North by Northwest" and "The Apartment" as inspirations for the sartorial aesthetics of the show.

"I love menswear," says Bryant, who particularly enjoys putting jewelry--signet rings, bracelets -- on men. "Back then, straight men wore fancy accents and it was accepted. Menswear has become so plain these days."

Indeed, French cuffs and monogrammed dress shirts added acceptable edge to a man's look. Bryant, along with The Stylephile, laments the fact that the man in the gray flannel suit has become the dude in the stonewashed denim. We asked Bryant for some modern day sources for the man who's not afraid to look sharp. 

For suits: Paul Smith. "The linings are contrasting and look so great."
For shirts: Thomas Pink and Burberry. "The shirts are amazing and fit so well."
For vests and more current looks: DSquared. "Thier clothes are fun. Men should have fun too."

July 23, 2007 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (2)

June 14, 2007

DVDS for Dad: 40% off

Don't ever assume that fathers don't expect great gifts on their big day. He taught you how to ride a freaking bike and turned crimson when you told him that you needed to go and buy "feminine products." This Friday on June 15th, for one day only, DVD collections are maked at 40% off on Borders.com. There's a box set for every type of man, as the selection of cinematic canons includes The Steve McQueen Collection, Miami Vice, four volumes of James Bond collections, and Roots. The Stylephile's dear old dad is getting McQueen, which includes "The Great Escape" and "The Thomas Crown Affair."

June 14, 2007 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 10, 2007

Can the Olsen Twins Double their Profits?

June 10, 2007 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (2)

May 21, 2007

Sale: For Dad's Day

His eyes get all squinty when he listens to Coltrane. You once caught him swiveling his man hips to Sinatra. And perhaps, dear old Dad never threw out those old records he refers to as his "wax." iPods are cool; 78s are for purists. Right now, this nifty USB turntable is on sale at Fred Flare for $150 (regularly $200) and makes the perfect gift for any aged man who appreciates his old school collection of vinyl and might just want to bebop into the next century—the turntable will record any record to a CD or MP3 player too. (It also converts tapes and 8-tracks.) This year, reward your Dad (or the man who sired your kids) on Father’s Day for his love of Cole Porter and let him delude himself that Deep Purple is still popular.

May 21, 2007 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 29, 2006

Dude, Where’s My Clothes?

TV ads would have us believe that every man dreams of power drills (and sugar plums of course).  Now there is no denying that the average dude likes things that turn on: electronics, power tools, Pamela Anderson. Still, in this metro universe, lots of guys fantasize about cashmere sweaters and perfect leather belts too. To find perfect presents for such a man (or even one who wants a power drill, but could use some fashion help) stop by Oak, recently named one of America’s Top 50 Most Influential Men’s Wear Stores in DNR.  At the Williamsburg store’s Holiday Party on December 1 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.—at which incidentally one will also find amazing women’s clothing—Stylephile readers get 25%-off brands like Band of Outsiders, Acne, and Filippa K. Shop all day for the discount at both the Williamsburg and Park Slope locations and even online.  Of course the website and Park Slope shop don't offer lovely refreshments, but whatever turns you (and your guy) on. 25%-off, Williamsburg: 208 N. 8th St., (718) 782-0521, Park Slope:  668 President St., (718) 857-2080, oaknyc.com

November 29, 2006 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (2)

November 28, 2006

Drink In Style

You "grab drinks" all the time. Still, depending on whether your drinking partner is a hot date or your best bud Fat Al, the experience can range from keg stands to politely sipping a Kir Royale. Well, you can drink to impress everyone from business associates to serious hotties with Sona’s new innovative cocktail menu. The alcoholic embodiment of chic, drinks include daring combinations of unusual ingredients like the Honey & Ginger (two scotches, honey, ginger, and a skewer of honey comb), the Cucumber-Mint Mojito (Level vodka, cucumber and mint), the Raspberry Rose (Vodka, Mint, Raspberry, and Bouvet Rosé) and the sweet Strawberries and Cream (Strawberries, Ginger, Trinidad Sugar, Mint, and Crème de Menthe Whipped Cream). Plus, being that style is Sona’s signature, the cocktails are bound to look amazing, which in turn makes you look good as well. $14-$16, Sona , 401 N. La Cienega Blvd., (310) 659-7708

November 28, 2006 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (5)

November 26, 2006

Getting Stoned

Depending on whom you ask "getting stoned" has both positive and negative connotations. The expression refers to having large rocks hurled at you (á la Shirley Jackson’s The Lottery)—definitely bad. Still, "getting stoned" also refers to slipping on some unbelievably soft and thin cashmere/silk from brand new Malibu-based line Stone Crown, which is definitely a good thing. Leather buttons don soft and refined hoodies and vests, perfect for dressing up or down for fans like Mischa Barton, Kristin Cavalleri, Sean Penn and Ashton Kutcher. The collection defies the usual granny-style or matronly cashmere standards, combining contemporary tunic lengths, hoods, cap sleeves and sleek lines with fabric that’s to die for—in a good kind of "getting stoned" way. $50-$500, Planet Blue locations, 3835 Cross Creek Rd., (310) 317-8566 OR 800 14th St., (310) 394-0135, Elyse Walker, 15320 Antioch St., (310) 230-9911

November 26, 2006 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 7, 2006

Sk8 Punks

The new generation of parents comes in all shapes and sizes. Sure some are still sporting sensible purses and pastel Gap sweats, but a huge-percentage are tattooed, pierced and ready to rage—happily with their kids of course. Thankfully today’s Mom and Dude don’t have to discard their pop culture love when they have kids (just look at Maddox Jolie’s mohawk). Instead they can shop at skater-chic baby clothes site Little Ruler. Social Distortion, NOFX, and Ramones tees are just the beginning. "Grown-up" skaters (an oxy-moron?) and punk fans can also choose from baby and toddler-size sneakers like Etnies and Vans, Independent and Thrasher onesies and camouflage beanies as well as exclusive Little Ruler pieces created just for the site. So kids can start dreaming of ollies in the crib. Just one step closer to grooming the next Tony Hawk. $9.95-$40, littleruler.com

November 7, 2006 in MEN | Permalink | Comments (2)

November 1, 2006

Dear John

Sunglasses can say a lot about a man. Aviators scream cool and collected, wrap-arounds send a sportier message, and those two dollar Rexall finds - well, enough said. Since L.A. is the land of constant shade sporting, it's also important to change it up from time to time, which is where John Varvatos' newest sunglass collection comes into play. Innovative takes on the classic vintage rocker norms include the V713/SG, which is