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Stylebabble is a site that translates trends by actually connecting the dots. It reveals the origin of the trend and shows how it trickles into an array of industries. Latest Posts: You must admit, menswear can't be as adventurous as women's fashion. Even the most stylish of men's clothing is nowhere near as emotional or as expressive as those designed for their female counterparts. With every season, womenswear is granted the flexibility to push limits with color, pattern, fabric and trend interpretations. In contrast, many menswear labels live with the same "safe" color palette and silhouettes year after year. This, I imagine, can be a real bummer for men. Menswear often falls to one end of the spectrum. One side is classic, while the other is euro trash. THE SHOPPING LIST For starters, I believe a worthy menswear label needs to have purpose, one or more of the following attributes should be included. fills a void in the market place WHAT IS THE SECRET INGREDIENT? Artificial Flavor, the contemporary menswear label has everything mentioned on the shopping list (above) and most importantly, they have found the harmony between daily wear and fashion. Did you catch that? Artificial Flavor understands that men's clothing needs to be approachable and liveable but it doesn't mean it can't be stylish. Described on their website as a "lifestyle brand that remixes classic garments similar to how DJs remix existing music". They are definitely on to something here. Most men need a jacket that can dress up their daily uniform. The jacket (below) is perfect because it looks classic, yet the pocket angle and button details add style. It definitely serves a purpose and comfort is considered. The fabric of this coat is a soft cotton french terry. Ooh... I want something like this for myself! What more could you ask for? Oh yeah...the price, 114.00 what a steal! This Artificial Flavor black snap front jacket is available at http://www.aflavor.com Artificial Flavor was brought to life 4 years ago when co-founder John Vitti (one of four) discovered just how "terribly uncomfortable" men's underwear was. At the time he was commuting from San Francisco to Cupertino, so he had plenty of time to be motivated to offer a better solution. Ha! That's right, their first product was underwear. Which, I have to say, is a pretty clever place to start since the T-shirt world is saturated. Since then they have expanded into lounge wear; pants, shirts, hoodies. They also offer a strong collection of jackets, as featured above. I believe the key to their success is that the founders formed the company out of necessity and voids in the market place. They found inspiration from their own closets, not from trade shows or the runways. They were just a group of guys that wanted to offer their perspective to the world of menswear. So what's on the horizon for Artificial Flavor? The Spring 2009 collection, of course! John Vitti was kind enough to provide Stylebabble with a sneak preview into this coming season. Inspired by the materialism revolving the fashion industry, Artificial Flavor decided to take a light hearted approach to this reality. This Spring the inspiration theme is Plastic/Fake. The materials used visually emulate plastic. They offer classic silhouettes with unexpected hits of plastic like fabric. For example, a Hoody that is made of parachute nylon instead of french terry. Check out these Spring 2009 pieces that will be available Feb 2. storm hoody Mesh sweater with rip stop bands. Polo with mesh fabric. Check out their blog and shopping site for more information regarding Artificial flavor. |
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With Russia's economy topping the list of emerging markets, it is no surprise that the fashion industry has targeted this country for inspiration in it's Fall lines. Most luxury brands have poured into the country over the past five years to accommodate the demands and desires of the affluent in modern day Russia.
Below are photos of brands aside from Chanel that have been influenced by this economic up-rise. When I look at these photographs I see several things; freedom, abundance, opulence, and celebration. I question how this bounty of wealth (in coming years) will effect the once preserved culture of this country...
Hermes Fall/Winter 08-09
Gucci Fall/Winter 08-09
J.Crew Fall/Winter 08-09
Russian influence is making its way into home already. See the description for the Audrey bedding from Blissliving Home.
"The Audrey Duvet reflects the meeting of Russian royalty with modern day Moscow. An oversized print of bronzed leaves casts gradient detail from fox and honey to crisp pure white. Matching shams are strikingly printed as an extension of the bed, creating a complete image from top to bottom. The leaves appear to fall from the branches, lulling you to sleep under rich chocolate colored cotton sateen."
Chanel- Paris Moscou Pre Fall 2009
Chanel Pre Fall collection (available in June 2009) also drew inspiration from Moscow.
I am intrigued by the enthusiasm and exquisite craftsmanship that went into the Chanel Paris Moscou collection. At first glance we see an inviting, plush, burlesque setting. The models are adorned with impressive headdresses, Russian soldier uniforms take the form of feminine tight knit dresses. Hits of bold colors and architectural lines in fabric construction are reminiscent of art pieces. The collection is absolutely breathtaking!
The Collection
The Inspiration
Karl brought to life his inspiration and his creative process for the collection through this silent film. Reminiscent of a daydream, it tells a tale of how Karl may have imagined Coco to conceptualize the theme for this Chanel-Paris Moscou line. She had an appreciation for Moscow, as you will notice is illustrated in the film. During the movie Coco and Dmitri Pavlovich speak of Russian constructivism, Russian Folklore, and Tsarist Russia. In the end, Coco expresses "For my next collection I want to mix all that together." Thus introducing the Paris Mosou collection.
A Closer Look
Behind the Scenes
Enjoy this Chanel Paris-Moscou Pre Fall 2009: Focus on Accessories.
An After Thought
I don't blame any company or brand for going where the buzz is. I found this exciting video from RT regarding the New Russian Night Life. Take a look at just how intense it is! "Face Control"!? Could this be an example of how wealth is transforming their culture?
I'd love to know where you hang out and what you love to do! Email mobilespinach@mobilespinach.com businesses that you like and things you like to do and we will do our best to get you discounts from your favorite places.
