Kehinde Wiley – Down @ Deitch Projects

for more kehinde wiley, go here.

AXE Grooming Kit Winners

Hey guys, let me announce the 10 winners of the Axe Grooming Kit:


Brandon ( first post)
Vinnie
AJ
Chanpreet Singh
John Tran
Brandon
Keith
Joaquin Gurrola
D. King
Adrian


I've sent you all emails, so be sure to reply back TODAY with your mailing address. Congrats guys, the kit is really nice :)

Alot of you sent emails for this particular giveaway- over 30 (though I don't know why), but I still included you in the random drawing this time.

Stay tuned for the next giveaway!

Comme Des Garcons PLAY Cardigan, Dee & Ricky Alternative

This is the sweater that is increasingly worn by celebrities and fashinstos everywhere, and it's one of the popular items for the this Fall and Winter.

Comme Des Garcons PLAY cardigan, $300
purchase at Colette, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nomads

I understand that we're in a recession, therefore, I'll say that you can achieve the same look by buying a cardigan from a more price-friendly store (Gap, Macys, etc). Then just go to your local craft store to buy a heart patch and just sew or iron it on. This method will probably cost you $45-$85 (which saves you $200 or so bucks to buy those school books and other necessities).


An even better, and perhaps classier alternative would be to buy a Dee and Ricky heart brooch they're only $60 (they were $75) and you can wear them over and over again on different cardigans. The first diy option isn't for everyone, just for those who are on a strict budget, and are willing to go the extra mile to get a particular look, the second option is what you really should do because it's hella stylish and versatile.

VEGAS Magazine: Usher Raymond

Still Life hat, Etro vest ($780), Etro shirt ($360)

Prada shirt ($375), Prada pants ($565), Buckler tie,
Yves Saint Laurent sunglasses, and Cartier watch.

Tom Ford suit ($6,920), Tom Ford shirt ($590) Tom Ford tie ($220),
Tom Ford pocket square ($130), Tom Ford sunglasses ($2,200),
and Louis Vuitton shoes ($945)

Levi's jeans ($69.50), Cartier watch, Usher’s own-sweater, belt, and jewelry.

American Conversations: But, I'm a Product of my Environment...

i ran across this conversation on one of my friends fb pages... and had to repost it- unedited. *names have been changed to protect identities (lol).*

andre initially asks the following question (via his status update):

If I'm a product of my environment and my subsequent conditioned behavior unconstructively contributes to society, which then directly effects my environment... where and how does the cycle end??

melody: the chicken came before the egg

anisha: when you make the conscious effort to end it.

andre: So what's the origin of the conception of the chicken? Is society to blame or am I as an individual to blame for my contributions?

If you've always only known how to write with your right hand, how quickly and to what level of efficiency can you learn to write with your left?

franchesca: depends on how much u really wanna learn to write with ya left hand...

the cycle ends when YOU decide to let it end...

amerie: I agree that it is a matter of the amount of determination that the individual has to change. Doesn't the saying go, so a man thinketh so is he..

andre: What if an individuals attempts to reform and break from their environment's cycle are in vein, as the recipient(s) of the reformation have also been conditioned by society? Although their conditioning may be slightly altered, the recipients then act as entities of society that force the motion of the cycle.

So if you have two groups within an environment that have both been conditioned and are increasingly consumed by an opportunistic cycle with each passing day and experience, unknowingly implementing that learned knowledge to antagonize the progression of breaking both cycles AND the single cycle that is thus created... where or how does the cycle end??

franchesca: the individuals attempts will be in vein ONLY if he gives up and decides not to pursue the desired end. IT still would be the recipients choice 2 ACT as he has been conditioned by his society. Maybe the recipient needs to change the society he's finds himself in then.

again both individuals must decide n want to break the cycle

amerie: I still think that it is an individuals choice. Even for those on the receiving end. If each person makes a conscious decision to live by a certain code of ethic, then even the altered conditioning of society won't take over. You have to deny yourself daily to be become who you are suppose to be.

kenya: I was once a believer that we as "Americans" have the same opportunities to achieve at the same magnitude of our peers if we were determined to do so. I can say that I feel as though I fully used the resources that were given to me to my advantage to become a young college graduate working for a fortune 10 company. Does that mean I was more determined than the next man; or that I had the knowledge and guidance from those around me, to know the resources I had at my finger tips, and how to use them. Sometimes it’s not the lack of determination of a person that keeps them trapped, but the unawareness and the ignorance around them that keeps them there.

andre: A single individual cannot break the complete cycle that effects their environment, the individual can only attempt to change themselves. Furthermore, a single individual can change the environment they're in but cannot change the society of which they exist. If their society directly effects their environment then the new environment will only be a deviation of the original.

Could it be that there is no correct answer, our minds were not created to fathom the intricacy of the synopsis, or that complete reformation is simply too late for our society?

nicole: Indeed a single individual cannot alone break the cycle. Instead, it will only change as a result of a combined effort of many in the society. Let us not forget, though, that society is made up of individuals and institutions. If many individuals decide they want to change the cycle (and actually make efforts toward that goal *KEY*), then, and only then, will they be able to also change the institutions that construct the societal norms.

andre: I agree completely. My only fear is that our society is no longer cohesive enough to make such a change as a unit. This misfortune leaves individuals who comprise the society to ask questions such as the one originally presented. I suppose the only true resolution is the unity of actively reformed individuals from each of the two groups. However, the reformation must be continuous within each individual, otherwise they will once again fall victim to the cycle. Tsk tsk

nicole: agreed. Enjoyed this conversation... Great thoughts.

_____________________

what i enjoyed most about the conversation was the fact that each individual knew exactly what the true nature of the discussion was... they knew who, or what group they were specifically conferring, but conversed in such a way that would not make one who was, let's say, not within the (knowing) group become defensive-- which would in turn takeaway from the progression that is clearly trying to be made... furthermore, this is a perfect example of "our" daily conversations, we, americans, are still fighting to break an "institution" a "conditioning" that has been so deeply ingrained within our culture, fighting a mindset that was strategically placed there for centuries upon centuries by... well, by our oppressors. . . and now some ex-oppressors and some of the lineage of the oppressed perpetuate behaviors that do our country, our world, a disservice...

we must change one by one... discuss. ask questions. and diversify yourself as a being.

via The Urban Gentleman II

art Shoes: Reebok X Jean-Michel Basquiat

flyAzz shoes. makes me wanna create some kind of shoe-painting contest...







Reebok Fall 2009.
Tribute to New York-based street artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.
Two colors.
buy them at Colette.

(more ) Summer Street Style

the perfect tank top to shorts ratio.
jean shorts ,right at the knee
tank top, right below the pockets
and a fedora and wayfarers to boot
(sandals, optional)

"saaay cheeese"
he looks really cool
(minus the shoes)

this is style. perfect ensemble to wear in places like
rio de janeiro, san juan, ocho rios.
gosh, he looks so relaxed and happy :)

via the street style kid

Writing Your Thoughts: Moleskine Notebooks, Mini Sketchbooks

Internet, ipod, tv, videos, movies, parties, work, blackberry, cell phone, computer, internet, ipod, tv, favorite show at 9, wanted to see that new video, party on Saturday, pandora, twitter, facebook, youtube, myspace, ybf, perez hilton, tmz, limewire to download the new mixtape... its like we're caught in a matrix sometimes, where we let electronics and the media completely rule our lives. Everyday, or every other day, or if you're That busy, atleast once week take the time to unplug yourself from the world.

For my creative types, well, I know that you often have So many thoughts running through your head and the noise (tv, ipods, blackberries) around you makes it hard to catch those thoughts. I suggest a simple moleskine notebook. I initially carried mine around because it was a requirement for one of my drawing classes, but that class ended last year and I still continue to use it. Magazine tears, quotes, ideas and just plain scribbles, there's alot of random things in my book. Plus, its nice to look back on what you were thinking on a particular day or what inspired you at a particular moment.

one of the pages from my notebook. this particular notebook isn't the brand
moleskine instead its a mini hard bound sketchbook by art alternatives...

Now I know blogs and online journals have replaced the need to carry around little notebooks, but there's still that special something about having a tangible book (one perk is that it even works when your Internet or computer are having issues.)




Moleskine now offers a collection of "city notebooks" that has maps, addresses, and tips for specific cities- (New York, LA, Atlanta, Hong Kong, Tokyo, London, Madrid, Stockholm, Toronto, Vancouver, and just many many more). They are Perfect for traveling!

I really like the Moleskine cahiers because they're really light and are super easy to carry around. I would use these to take notes in my patternmaking and sewing classes.

You can purchase moleskines at your local book store, art store, or at the urbangent store.

Local Urban Gentleman Pat Wolinski

This weeks featured Local Urban Gentleman is Pat Wolinski. Yet again another Chicagoan with style (the third so far... the midwest and south represent strong- the west coast and northeast are slacking a bit...). Mr.Wolinski is an urban gent currently transitioning styles. Traditionally known for his cool hair and graphic tees, he's now developing his own style... which consists of slim cuts that pay ode to old-school looks.

Presenting Pat Wolinski....

Name: Pat Wolinski
Age: 18
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Occupation: Student
Style Icons: Pharrell, Kayne West
Favorite Quote: Dress to be respected, respect is earned.
Favorite Brands: Brooks Brothers, DKNY
Favorite Store: Brooks Brothers
Favorite Piece of clothing: White V-Neck
Bow tie or tie: tie
Flat front or pleated: flat
Shades, hat, or scarf: hat
Ultimate goal: To live life to it's fullest.
Favorite Books: The Great Gatsby
Hobbies: Shopping, Photography, Dancing, Working out.
Grooming product of choice: Hair Gel

1. How would you describe your style? Old- School with a modernized touch.

2. How did you become so stylish? It used to be a decent pair of pants and a graphic tee, slowly I started to transition because I wanted to be unique, more different ..have my own look. I started to admire the old-school look.


3. What advice would you give someone trying to find their personal style? Your style will always look best on you and only you!

4. What's the best clothing advice you ever received? Don't go out and shop where everyone else does, find your own thing. Be unpredictable.

Are you the next Local Urban Gentleman?
Answer the questions above and submit them to
urbangentblog@gmail.com
along with 4 or more stylish pictures.

Armani Wings

Wings V-Neck, $32 (Armani Graphic Tees)

2 Men's Pima T-Shirts for just $40.

And the Winner is...

The winner of the Remington 8-in-1 groomer is Roderick Hilliard. CONGRATULATIONS!

We had 98 entries and a Chicago native got picked from the random drawing.

Because there were so many entries I decided to choose a 2nd runner up who will receive one of the ten AXE Grooming kits.... and that goes to Adam.

I'll email both of you, so be sure to respond with your mailing addresses.


And for the other 96 who didn't get chosen, be sure to sign up to win one of the AXE Grooming Kits! Go HERE to win the free Grooming Kit.

Quick Survey

Hey guys, please take the survey below, it'll only take about 2 minutes or less. Just answer 4 really quick questions:

If one survey is full then choose the next. Thanks guys!


1. Click Here to take survey

(if the above is full, take the one below)


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3. Click Here to take survey

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Have a GREAT Weekend!

Michael Jackson- "Bad",The Full Video

I bet some of you didn't know (or forgot) Michael Jackon's BAD video was actually a short film.... well now you know, so check it out:



via theurbangent.com

The full music video for "Bad" is an 18-minute short film written by novelist and screenwriter Richard Price, directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Michael Jackson. Jackson portrays a boy named Daryl who has just completed a successful term at an expensive private school. He returns to the city by subway, arriving in a derelict neighborhood.

Daryl arrives to find his house empty (his mother is played by Roberta Flack, albeit in voiceover), but is greeted by his old friends, led by Mini Max (an emerging Wesley Snipes) and spends an evening with them. At first relations are friendly, if slightly awkward, but the situation deteriorates once the rest of the gang realize how much Daryl has changed, and in particular how uncomfortable he has become with their tendencies towards petty crime. In an attempt to show his friends he is still "bad", Daryl takes the gang to a subway station (The Hoyt Schermerhorn Station in Brooklyn) where he attempts to mug an elderly man but bottles out at the last minute. Mini Max berates Daryl and tells him that he's no longer bad.

After more abuse from Mini Max, the video jumps from black and white to color and Daryl, now dressed head to foot in leather and joined by a crowd of dancing punks, sings "Bad" (it is at this point that the edited video generally begins when played on television). His insistence that Max is headed for a fall are nearly Daryl's undoing, but eventually his friend accepts that "that's the way it goes down", and, after a final handshake, heads off leaving Daryl. The scene shifts back to black and white as Daryl, alone and back in his tracksuit, watches them leave.

Summer Giveaways: AXE Instinct Grooming Kit

The summer of give-a-ways continues... next up an AXE Instinct Grooming Kit.

Instinct is AXE's latest fragrance collection.


"The new fragrance is inspired by the scent of rare leathers - think hides worn by primitive hunters to the cool black leather bomber jackets worn by some of America’s biggest pop-culture icons. Developed with the help of world-renown fragrance expert Ann Gottlieb, Instinct includes hints of spicy pink pepper, raw-leather accords and warm pepperwood. It is available in a deodorant bodyspray, shower gel, deodorant stick and antiperspirant stick."

This is my favorite collection of theirs so far- the dark chocolate was pretty good, the fixer collection was cool, but instinct is a hit. And... check this out, we're giving away not one, not two, but 10 sets, yesss you read that correctly 10- t e n Axe Instinct Grooming Kits! So this time you will have a GREAT chance of winning! (this would make a nice gift for someone)




To win this AXE Grooming Kit: *fan us on facebook (if you're on there), leave your name and email in the comment box below (put your addresses in the long/safe format: jack (at) yahoo (dot) com ), and answer this question:

*if you are not on facebook (you can follow us on blogger or on our "coming soon" twitter page)

How many squirts of cologne do you usually spray?
(there's no right answer)

Legends in Leather collection at the
Power of Leather launch party for AXE Instinct

Pete Wentz, Ashlee Simpson-Wentz, Kim Kardashian, Reggie Bush
at the AXE/Rolling Stone Power of Leather Launch Party

TOMS: Shoes for Tomorrow

Mark Indelicato (of Ugly Betty) wearing TOMS on the "It's on with
Alexa Chung" Show, she's like the MTV version of Chelsea Lately
(but Chelsea is a bit more hilarious).

For the past couple of years, depending on what store I enter, I'll see a pair of shoes that remind me of earnest and simple living of people in certain foreign countries. When I see these shoes many images come to mind- monks, kung-fu, and nature in general. I used to only see these simple shoes here and there now I see them everywhere, but for good reason. These shoes are espadrilles and the brand that I see everywhere are called TOMS.

Tom shoes are truly inspirational, the company gives away a pair of shoes for every pair that is purchased. Not for every other pair, not for every 500 pair of shoes, but for EVERY pair of shoes that is bought. That's extraordinarily commendable, and that makes you feel guilt free when shopping. Other companies have had similar missions; for every shirt you buy they'll give 25% percent to a charity- which is nice, but nothing compares to directly giving a person in need the full amount or worth of the product... read more about TOMS mission here. Oh and TOMS basically stands for "Shoes for Tomorrow" or "Tomorrow's Shoes".

The shoes come in a variety of colors and textures,
here's a few of my favorite for men:

Black Burlap, $48

VEGAN Khaki Herringbone Stitchout, $65
Chocolate Corduroy Stitchout, $58

Burlap Woven, $48


Other angles, click to enlarge:





And they have very cool packaging:

The shoes come tucked inside their own TOMS drawstring bag.

If you have some extra cash and you're in need of a new pair of casual shoes, then order a pair of TOMS.

The (free) Groomer

One more day, to win the shaver for yourself, a friend, family, boyfriend, husband....

http://www.theurbangent.com/search/label/giveaway

Summertime Style: Examples of How To Keep Cool (and stay handsome) in the Summer, Tips and Photos

I've been getting alot of emails about how to keep cool in the hot summer months, here's one of the recent emails :

Question:

Hi. I'm a 30 year old urban gent from Birmingham, Al. My girlfriend lives in Tallahassee so I usually there on holidays and weekends. Recently I've changed to an older more sophisticated look. Similar to Kendrack Lewis your most recent featured urban gent. My problem is I don't know what to wear when it's really hot. When the temp is in the 90's, it's really humid, and sweating is unavoidable. Could you help me out?

Answer:

Hey (name of Alabama gentleman)

When it's hot keep it simple... its all about wearing quality or proper fitting clothing. Examples of looks to wear on a hot summer day:

1. white polo, seer sucker shorts, navy boat shoes
2. white/colored short sleeves v-neck, very light-weight cardigan with the sleeves rolled up, khaki shorts, canvas shoes
3. long sleeve plaid shirt w/ the sleeves rolled up, jeans, and your choice of shoes

accessorize with a nice pair of trendy shades like black wayfarers and you're good to go.

The thing is Steven, I know its Really hot, but you're a gentleman so its never really appropriate to wear combinations like tanks, shorts, and flip-flops unless you're going to the beach... again, I know its hot, but guys just don't have as easy as women when it comes to looking very stylish and keeping very cool in the sun... we can always just put on a sleeveless light weight dress and sandals, which would be the coolest thing we could put on aside from a bikini.

_______________________________________________________________

The gentleman above was focused on keeping his look sophisticated, that's why I gave him the options above. But, if you're a hipster of sorts then you could pull of the tank/shorts/flip flops look depending on the combination.

I pulled some photos from the Sartorialist (one of my fav street style blogs), that I feel are nice examples of summer Gentleman gear...

What do you see...

- mostly light colors with the exception of navy
- shorts are right at or just above the knees
- sockless w/ loafers, boat shoes, or sandals
(some people say gentleman do not wear sandals,
but I'll leave that up to you)
- long sleeve shirts and sweaters are rolled up
- top buttons un-done (usually 2)

For more info, check out:
- Summer Rolls
- Sockless
- Sartorialist Does Brooklyn

Also for the summer months:
- carry a linen handkerchief/pocketsquare to dab at sweat
- use sunblock
- always carry sunglasses and/or a hat
- drink LOTS of water
- boxers may keep you cooler than briefs
- use a good deodorant
- consider taking a quickie mid day shower in addition to your morning or night shower, this usually keeps you a little more cool


photos: Sartorialist.blogspot.com