Happy Valentine's Day 2012 AKA The "Play Smarter" Gospel According To Chris Live.

(NOTE: Yup, my nigga Ralph Wiggum definitely knows what time it is!)

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: My ill feelings towards the ruthless corporatization that has fiendishly transmuted the once holy St. Valentine's Day into simply yet another hallmark of Hallmark® greeting card avirice aside, I still got maaaaaaaaad L.O.V.E. for this holiday! Allow me to break it down homie.

See, where most men render a sad Pavlovian-like "heart-shaped box of chocolate accompanied by a requisite bouquet of flowers" response to this intimacy-by-proof-of-purchase (NOTE: NOT to be confused with ye "oldest profession in the world" ... @ least ideally ... lol) impetus, I, on the other hand, enjoy taking this opportunity to let the woman in my life know just how special to me she is and doing so in a special way. And, please be clear, this is most certainly NOT about going on a spending spree. In fact, on the real, I might fuck around and spend even less than usual today.

Why? Because, my idea of romance is a brilliant mixture of thoughtfulness and timing. I'm not out here trying to just carelessly hurl my trusty Louis Vuitton Damier print wallet into the price gouger's pit and overpay for some random ass generic gift! Nahh shorty, I'm trying to show Y.O.U. that I pay attention ... and that's what's truly priceless.  L.O.V.E. should be a 24/7, 365 thing ... Valentine's Day is just the All-Star Game baby ... lol.  Can Y.O.U. dig it?  Y.O.U. can?  Good,  I knew that Y.O.U. could AND that Y.O.U. would.  Now, make daddy proud.  This is Livestyle!

Helloooooo Ladies: The Henri Bendel Fall/Winter 2011 Handbag Collection = This Is How Y.O.U. Body A Basic Itchbay On A Budget.

"The modern, perfect handbag is a mix between instantly eye-catching and hard-to-place. Logo-ed It Bags are a thing of the past, and the designs that really whet our whistles these days are unadorned, classically designed, but with a splash of idiosyncrasy. The Henri Bendel handbags are just that—obscure enough to get you serious cool points, but classic enough to keep you totin' them for years to come. And with price-points between $150 to $450, these mid-priced pieces are worthy of a prime spot in your handbag rotation."

Information Courtesy Of: Refinery29.Com


Available Online Here: Henribendel.Com


CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: On numerous occasions it has come to my attention that whilst everything that I publish to this online manual dedicated to the edifying refinement of discovering the "finer things" in life is always of an unquestionably dope pedigree, far too many of my highlighted selections are simply too expensive for the average person to ever dream of actually owning. I feel your pain. Everyday is a hustle for me too homie. Don't get it fucked up!

That having been said, however, what many view as daunting, I view as daring. Indeed, what many view as cost prohibitive, I simply view as motivational. As the saying goes, "Perception is reality" or at least - with special caution paid to NOT diluting ones self - it is YOUR reality. I just happen to prefer to work hard and remain aspirationally optimistic, ya dig?

Anyway, trite self-help sounding hype-machine blather aside though, I do know that it is important for me to publish some awesomeness that Y.O.U. can actually go cop right nizzow! That Chopard watch is mighty nice, but what the fuck are Y.O.U. rocking to-night? LOL. To that end, Livestyle Ladies please say hello to the Henri Bendel Fall/Winter 2011 Handbag Collection.

Established waaaaaaaaaay back in 1885 by miliner Henri Willis Bendel, this specialty women's store has the impressive distinction of being the 1st visionary retailer to bring the revolutionary modernist designs of Coco Chanel from Paris to upscale shoppers in the United States. In the century plus since it's founding, Henri Bendel has remained an ardent champion of new talent acting as a millionaire merchandise matchmaker of sorts regularly introducing today's top tier socialites to the most exciting designers - both known and on the verge alike - season after brilliant season. Truly democratic decadence @ it's finest! Not to be outdone, Henri Bendel as a brand also releases their own signature collections from time-to-time showcasing their inspired ideology.

Now, it is not uncommon for certain retailers shopping bags to become as iconic as the store itself and such is the case with Henri Bendel. The brand is well-known for its brown-and-white striped shopping bags and have ingeniously infused that unmistakable motif - along with other geometric patterns - into their handbag range for Fall/Winter 2011.

Offering a wide variety of bags - from your standard shoulder bag to shoppers and totes - in a mix of supple leather and embossed snakeskin, this collection of classic style with just the right splash of citified whimsy is perfect for my fly misses out there who are NOT stuck on the obvious. Everybody's done Gucci and Louis Vuitton; try coppin' a brand that they DON'T make knockoffs of for once homie ... lol. Oh yeah, and with a friendly price point between $150 to $450 Y.O.U. don't have to break the bank to break necks mama! Fuck with a real nigga! This is Livestyle.

Wait, What!? Louis Vuitton Rubbers!?

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Really? Louis Vuitton CONDOMS are coming soon to a rich dick near Y.O.U.? With an internet rumored MSRP of $68? Like, for reals!? Smh. I'ma stick to my Trojan® MAGNUM®s and call it a day b.

SIDENOTE: If, in fact, these condoms ever do hit the market, Y.O.U. can expect some heavy bootleg/knock-off action in these streets. I mean, who amongst us can honestly resist the temptation to impress kiddie pool shallow itchbays with a vain - even if phony - display of perceived deep pocket capabilities by backing out a pack of "designer" ritzy "ribbed for her pleasure" rubbers like these!? LOL. The world is very different now.

Live From Paris: Louis Vuitton Fall/Winter 2011/2012 Womenswear Full Show.

The Louis Vuitton Spring/Summer 2011 Ad Campaign As Photographed By Steven Meisel = Dope In A Tiffany & Co.® Silver Spoon.

"Louis Vuitton Women's Collection Spring Summer 2011


"We started from the very beginning this season talking about glamour and something very stylized, very glossy," says Louis Vuitton Artistic Director Marc Jacobs of the process that led to the Spring Summer 2011 advertising campaign, shot once again by Steven Meisel. "We arrived at something which I would compare to the Eiffel Tower lighting up every hour on the hour – something of artifice that is just so gorgeous, and glamorous, and beautiful, that you are completely mesmerized by it."

Shot in a New York studio, the new campaign captures the decadent glamour of the Spring Summer 2011 fashion show, and stars two of the models who walked in it – Freja Beha Erichsen and Kristen McMenamy, whose body was famously painted with zebra stripes for the finale – alongside a flame-haired Raquel Zimmermann. The dazzling colors and shimmering textures of the clothes, the glossy hair and makeup, and the sparkling Seventies influenced décor combine to create a spectacular set of images, with the models striking louche poses in color?blocked Lurex, silk cheongsams and lush iris prints.

The mood, reflecting the deliberate artificiality of Marc Jacobs' Orient inspired vision, is vastly different from that of the previous season – indeed these three "bad girls", with their long tasseled earrings, Monogram lace fans and two tone leather or python trimmed jacquard bags, seem to deliver a riposte to the three "good girls" of the demure Fall Winter 2010 campaign.

Pietro Beccari, Executive vice president of Louis Vuitton, comments: "Once again, Marc Jacobs and Steven Meisel have created a remarkable campaign. What is extraordinary about these new visuals is their vivid rendering of the gloss, glitter and glamour of the fashion show. Its visual impact will be second to none this season."

Information Courtesy Of: Newemotion.It

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Fashion - when viewed as a mode of individual manner as opposed to the forced function of acceptance of prepackaged trends - is all about imagination. Yes, as a favorite Livestyle mantra goes, "Style is enduring" and, implicit in one's adherence to that rule, is the ability to digest influences new and old, from both near and far and deftly add them to your ever evolving palette.

To that end, when Marc Jacobs serves up the opium den meets the Ritz decadence of this, the Louis Vuitton Spring/Summer 2011 Collection on silver platter, only an equally brilliant photographer such as Steven Meisel is fit to shoot it. Y.O.U. see the results boys and girls. Watch and learn.

The New Louis Vuitton Apple® iPad Carrying Case In Monogram x Damier Graphite = The Definition Of "Geek Chic".

"Carry your iPad in style with these new Louis Vuitton iPad Cases. These supple yet durable cases combines elegant design with style and functionality. Its ultra slim design makes it very portable, it slips easily into a handbag or briefcase. Also, it features a soft microfiber lining which protects the iPad and allows it to easily slip in and out. Though I don't have an iPad yet (I'm planning on getting the iPhone 4 first), I'm really loving these cases!

iPad Case comes in two designs, Monogram canvas, and Damier Graphite canvas. They're available at Louis Vuitton stores and online at louisvuitton.com for US $390."

Information Courtesy Of: Ilvoelv.Com


Available Online Here: Louisvuitton.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Whilst my stubbornly purist attitude against the complete digitization of society makes me the last candidate for an Apple® iPad, I admit, that they are kind of cool ... if you're into that sort of thing. However, my materialistic side is all about the brand new Louis Vuitton iPad Case. Available in both the classic orthodox "LV" monogram style and the most modern incarnation of their signature "Daimer" motif in graphite, these cases are like luxury iPad Snuggie™s for trendsetting techies everywhere!

Come to think of it, a crack head did stroll into my friendly neighborhood barbershop a week or 2 ago talking about letting this latest gadget to have fallen from the very fruitful Apple® tree go for like $300 cash. And of course any sale price is subject to my well seasoned Brooklyn browbeating negotiation tactics ... lol. I wonder if I'ma come across a deal like that again anytime soon? Paging All Boosting Bitches And Credit Card Scammers: I'll take 1 iPad and a macthing Louis Vuitton iPad case, thank Y.O.U. very much. Let's make a deal! LOL. Holla @ ya boy in BK!

LOVE Magazine Presents: The Louis Vuitton Archive Project (Ready-To-Wear, Handbags x Shoes From 1998-2010)(Directed By James Lima x Katie Grand)

Preview: The Louis Vuitton New Bond Street, London Maison Store Opening.

Helloooooo Ladies: The Limited Edition Spring/Summer 2010 Louis Vuitton x Takashi Murakami "Cosmic Blossom" Collection = Billionaire Beach Bum Wear!

"For Summer 2010, Louis Vuitton has again partnered with their long-time collaborator, Japanese artist Takashi Murakami to create the Cosmic Blossom collection; a line of bright and colorful beach accessories and ready-to-wear which features Murakami's famous artwork, the Cosmic Flower. The collection is set to be released on April 15th 2010.

Below [NOTE: Livestyle lists the pictures above the main body of this post] are the incomplete line-up of the Cosmic Blossom accessories collection (prices tentative).

Information Courtesy Of: Ilvoe.Com


Visit Louis Vuitton Online Here: Louisvuitton.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: The latest creative partnership between Takashi Murakami and Louis Vuitton continues the drift towards fashion design as high art that transforms regular, albeit often very expensive, products into brilliant au curant canvases for the savvy marketing inclined artist.

In the know fashionistas have been waiting with bated breath and bare shoulder for the chance to sling a piece of the Limited Edition Spring/Summer 2010 Louis Vuitton and Takashi Murakami "Cosmic Blossom" Collection across their arms and, now, their time has come.

Hitting shelves this month, the "Cosmic Blossom" range embraces both Murakami's lush, happy blossom packed garden vision and the decadently detailed domain of the legendary Louis Vuitton Malletier. Baseball script "Louis Vuitton" signatures dance across voyage inspired pink, violet and blue hue handbags, pochettes, scarves, charms and ready-to-wear garments and offer a spirited take on classic elegance.

Message To The Livestyle Lady: Whether Y.O.U. rationalize this surely pricey purchase as a timely investment in fine art OR are simply of the constitution that Y.O.U. need not apologize to anyone for your materialistic enthusiasms, please do NOT make the mistake of trying to match and combine every article of this collection in some horribly tacky label whore meth-lab fashion explosion!

Basically, unless Y.O.U. are Daisy Lowe (NOTE: She's the young woman modelling this collection), don't Y.O.U. dare cop the scarf and the tote and the pochette and the charm and the camisole and even attempt to rock them all @ once; all in the same day. As is this case with most stylistic endeavors, less is more. I cannot over state the importance of understated elegance ... show a little class ladies. Fix up and look sharp.

Raekwon - Canal Street (Official Music Video)(Directed By LaMarck For LaMarck Films)

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Raekwon = undisputed #Topchef. "Canal Street" video = fake Louis Vuitton handbag Canal Street #Bottombudget ... lol. #Truestory.

GROW UP: The Glashütte Original PanoMaticLunar XL Watch For 2010 = Taster's Choice® AKA Wake Up And Smell The Money.

"The newest Glashutte Original PanoMatic watch has been updated in design to be more streamlined and minimalist. This moonphase version is the PanoMaticLunar XL and further has a trendy gray demeanor to it. If brown is the new hot color to match with gold, then gray is the new hot color to match with steel, white gold, or platinum. As such, this 42mm wide watch comes in steel - finished really well by Glashutte Original.

Inside the watch is the in-house made Calibre 90-02 automatic movement. Functions include a big date, off-centered watch dial with subsidiary seconds, and a moon phase indicator. All in various shades of gray. You can see the movement through the watch's sapphire caseback window. The strap is in charcoal shaded alligator. It is hard to say whether the watch will be a hit. Emphasis here is more on the dial and functions than the presentation or the case. Part of me feels that the case is too simple looking. At the same time, the information delivery on the dial is very straightforward and comfortable. Look for the watch in Glashutte Original boutiques or retailers soon."

Information Courtesy Of: Luxist.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: In my ongoing pursuit of greater cultural refinement and my endeavor to further blur the lines between "gangsters" and "gentlemen", I deliberately eschew favored rap music featured brand names for those of just as impressive firms that lack a similar unsolicited P.ublic R.elations push. Now, none of this is to say that popular labels like Rolex and Louis Vuitton are somehow of lesser quality simply because they are preferred by the nouveau riche as status symbols (NOTE: I personally L.O.V.E. both of those brands. Buy me some and watch me smile! LOL.) - I'm just a snob that appreciates rare finds. Suck it! LOL.

In any event, because of that, when it comes to high end timepieces, I've got a serious thing for old world craftsmanship with just a tasteful touch of modernity. The new Glashütte Original PanoMaticLunar XL Watch For 2010 is a study in such brilliant amalgamations. The storied Glashütte Original company (with German roots dating back to the 19th Century) has updated and upgraded their widely acclaimed PanoMaticLunar model by producing an opulently oversized "XL" version with rich features to match.

Composed of a decentralized dial sporting a big date display and a sleek half moonphase indicator and standard in-house Calibre 90-02 automatic movement, this wrist wrappery is ALL class. Don't Y.O.U. dare think of putting a single diamond on this beauty. Less is more ... more or less. Step your game up!

The Ralph Lauren Tartan Duffel From The Holiday 09 Collection = Duffle Bag Man.

"Ralph Lauren tartan duffel: Part of Lauren's luxe new Holiday Collection, rooted in the spirit of 1930's Sun Valley, the famous Idaho ski resort frequented by socialites and celebrities. Tartan plaid wool with saddle leather trim embodies wintry sophistication."


Information Courtesy Of: Luxist.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Yes, as the clock ticks down to Christmas 2009, I, in my infinite lack of wisdom, have yet again procrastinated my way into a corner ... I am still not done shopping nor have I compiled a definitive wishlist of my very own. I am probably going to get hit with all kinds of colognes (Moderately cool.) and/or gift cards to places that I'll most likely never use (Not cool. A waste of both your time and mine). So, in a last ditch effort to ring in the new year with loads of new gear, in the next coming days I will overload your senses with fly gifts that I L.O.V.E. (Hint! Hint!) and I will extend my acceptance of charitable donations until New Year's Eve to better accommodate my generous fans.

Fashion is cyclical. As such, a point that I always attempt to drive home to my loyal Livestyle community is that no colorful au curant trend can box with the arms of classic sophistication. To that end, I have placed a moratorium on men purchasing new Louis Vuitton duffle bags (NOTE: A Well worn and travelled Louis duffle conveys a sense of appreciation for the distinct craftsmanship of such an item and is completely acceptable.) and, instead, would like to suggest that highbrow hustlers eschew crass "look-@-me" flash for true panache. Take for example the Ralph Lauren Tartan Duffel from their Holiday 09 Collection.

Inspired by the world renowned affluent resort village of Sun Valley, Idaho, this range "embodies wintry sophistication with luxe cashmeres, rich tartan plaids, regal velvets and chic yet rustic details, creating gifts with a nod to classic American heritage and modern sensibility." Once again, Ralph Lipschitz has exalted the Anglo influence (NOTE: In this case utilizing the traditional Scottish print "Tartan" ... what most of us on this side of the pond call "Plaid") on Americana to harrowing levels of contemporary brilliance. Simple, yet elegantly effective and reflective of a truly elevated sense of style. I encourage all "playaz" to tighten their "circle" and become "duffle bag" men. Impress your connect. Niiiiiiiiiice.

BONUS:

I shouldn't have to really include this Playaz Circle video for the song that my thinly veiled double entendre made reference to in the title and body of this post, right? Like, we're all on the same page, right? Fuck it.

Helloooooo Ladies: The Louis Vuitton Monogram Velours Lurex Pochette Kali From The 2010 Crusie Collection = Smooth Moves, Dude!

"Named after the Sanskrit word for black, the soft and sumptuous Pochette Kali from Louis Vuitton's Cruise 2010 collection is an incredibly elegant clutch, a perfect accessory to any chic event. This enchanting clutch is made from silky black velvet highlighting the golden Monogram motif. Soft black satin lining, a golden brass pendant accent and golden chain and leather handle are just some of Kali's impeccable features.

Monogram Velours Lurex Pochette Kali measures 8.1" x 5.2" x 1.9", available at Louis Vuitton stores for US$1320."

Information Courtesy Of: Ilvoelv.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Seriously young lady, what Y.O.U. know about velour? I 1st fell in L.O.V.E. with this gloriously under explored fabric as a child coming of age in New York City during the 1980's when this tender to the touch textile was favored by Mafiosos and dope boys and girls alike. I mean, Y.O.U. do remember the timeless Fila tracksuit, right? Ehhhhhhhhhhhh, I have so much to teach Y.O.U. ... lol.

Anyway, the chief legislators of luxury @ Louis Vuitton have taken charge this season and introduced the luscious Monogram Velours Lurex Pochette Kali for their Cruise 2010 Collection. This go around, the popular Louis Vuitton "Pochette" model is dressed in the supple sophistication of this velvet substitute and is nicely accented with silk lining and golden brass hardware. Bet on black and drop a little bit over a stack on this dandy. Message To My Livestyle Lotharios: What do Y.O.U. cop the old "ball and chain" for Christmas? Why, a beautiful bag with a chain, of course. LOL. This is Livestyle.

Louis Vuitton CityCenter Store Opening @ The Crystals, Las Vegas.

A LiveStyle Editorial: Beanie Sigel Vs. Jay-Z AKA "I Aint Your Average Cat" Aint Your Average Diss Track.

Streaming Audio/Download Link: Beanie Sigel - What You Talkin' About (I Aint Your Average Cat)(Dirty)(NO DJ)
Uno.

For Hip Hop News & Entertainment at DimeWars.Com

Dos.

Tres.


CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: This most unfortunate of stories has been brewing since last Friday afternoon, but, as a matter of strategy, I have been reluctant to weigh in because I knew that it would develop into much more, and, as usual, I was right.

While the "What You Talkin' About (I Aint Your Average Cat)" track aint nothing nice, in his interview, Beanie Sigel gave, what I deem to be, a heartfelt admonition (NOTE: Not to be confused with your standard contrived rap "beef" meat marketing plan diss) of his former boss and friend Jay-Z. I can certainly see his point. For the record though, I don't even feel like the big homie was throwing shots @ Sigel on his BP3 Intro ... rappers sure are a hyper sensitive bunch.

Anyway, I myself have always wondered why Jay-Z didn't appear on more singles of his artists and push them towards greater success. I mean, Jay-Z's "Blueprint" could have easily been their cheatsheet ... lol. His name alone could have propelled his artists to platinum plaque status, but, he reneged. Why?

Well, in my esteemed opinion, it is because as great as he is, Shawn Corey Carter is a selfish asshole.  Mind Y.O.U. I do think that he is the "bee's knees", however, I do have unique insight here as I have personally seen Mr. Young Vito "Voice Of The Young People" look his Louis Vuitton Millionaire shaded eyes the other way and not even acknowledge many of his old hardbody comrades from the streets of Brooklyn as well ... I know this much to be true. That having been said, Beanie Sigel is no saint, his addictions made him unbearable @ specific points in his life and he should not be viewed without blame. You've gotta man up my G. As with much of life, this is complicated.

I truly hope that both parties can reconcile, but, I can't call it my nigga. Jay-Z is the type of person who has no qualms with cutting people off when he feels, correctly or incorrectly, that they are not holding their own. I invite Y.O.U. To hear ALL sides of this tumultuous story. Let's see how this unfolds.

The Louis Vuitton Men's Sunglasses Collection Preview Fall/Winter 2009-2010.

The New Era Custom Brooklyn Dodgers 59Fifty "Gucci Colors" Cap = Gucci L.O.V.E.

"ROCK-N-JOCKS says “Hello Brooklyn” with their latest NEW ERA fitted release. This custom Brooklyn Dodgers 59Fifty cap is dipped in a Gucci inspired color way. The Black crown is contrasted by the Hunter Green top bill, followed up by and Red Underbill. “Brooklyn” is The embroidered on the front in Hunter Green with a Red outlined. An embroidered “B” is stitched in the back in Hunter Green and Red. Limited to just 30 pieces, pick this one up and many more new releases only at www.rocknjocks.com"

Information Courtesy Of: Strictlyfitteds.Com

Available Online Here: Rocknjocks.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: In a stunning twist, when the Gucci luxury brand fell out of fashionable favor with their old guard "blue blood" clientele during the 1980's, it was Hip Hop that adopted this formidable Florentine label and resurrected their rich signature red and green flag!

This unsolicited - and most likely unwelcome - revolution helped save the Gucci dynasty from the brink of extinction. From authentic Gucci sweatsuits to the magnificent designer plagiarism of Harlem's legendary 24-hour a day bespoke baller outfitter, Dapper Dan, the G's adored the "GG"'s and, inadvertently, exposed a new generation of aspiring sartorialists to a new level of opulence. Consider brands such as Ralph Lauren Polo and Fila as gateway drugs and Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Hermès as the hardcore high end narcotics. Is an intervention even necessary? Nah, I didn't think so. LOL.

Anyway, fast forward to 2009 and, today, the Gucci Group is looking better than it ever has. In recent years, streetwear brands like Crooks & Castles have leaned on Gucci's distinctive red and green stripe heavily, so, it's about damn time that more fitteds feature this oh-so popular colorway! The uber limited (Only 30 production pieces) New Era Custom Brooklyn Dodgers 59Fifty "Gucci Colors" cap is as good as good money can get! Cop this ASAP! Impress your friends and steal home plate like the late, great Jackie Robinson ... word to P.ublic S.chool 320 AND E.bbets F.ield. Good shit!

The 2010 Holland & Holland By Overfinch Edition Range Rover = The ONLY Way To Ride "Shotgun".

"The Holland & Holland Range Rover by Overfinch, the "ultimate all purpose, all season luxury supercar" with a sporting edge billed as the most luxurious Range Rover ever made, will make its debut in the UK later this month. Limited to only 100 examples and expected to be priced at around $300,000, it will be a contender for the title of world's most expensive SUV, in competition with Spyker's Peking-to-Paris. Based on the supercharged 503 hp 2010 Range Rover, bespoke tuner Overfinch collaborated with Holland & Holland, maker of fine shotguns established in London in 1835 who hold two Royal Warrants, on the vehicle. A saddle-stitched leather interior is offset by a 32 piece, hand-carved woodwork set available in a selection of finishes. The rear console includes an integrated refrigerator, capable of chilling two full size champagne bottles, along with storage space for two flutes. The luggage compartment contains a beautiful hand-crafted bespoke gun cabinet with multiple drawers capable of holding up to eight crystal champagne flutes and whisky tumblers, as well as two cased shotguns, cartridges and all the accessories."

Information Courtesy Of: Luxist.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: The aftermarket enhanced customization of any product is tricky terrain, however, the course can become particularly perilous for those attempting to dramatically alter a prestige item. The tightrope wire that hovers above the bottomless pit of "tackiness" requires a nimble foot and a focused mind. In the auto world, when unsuccessful, Y.O.U. get a Daimler-Chrysler Maybach with "Louis Vuitton" guts, sitting on 32 inch rims. Yuck! When done correctly though, Y.O.U. get the 2010 Holland & Holland by Overfinch Edition Range Rover.

First of all, fuck "1-in-a-million", this bad boy is 1-in-100. Yeah, let that $300,000 gem sink in. The Overfinch group has been in the bespoke Range Rover business for close to 40 years and their exclusive derivative models have become synonymous with world class quality and refinement.

Now, if that wasn't good enough already, also factor in that this latest collaboration incorporates the talents of formidable firearm firm Holland & Holland - a company founded waaaaaaaaaay back in 1835 by Harris Holland (later to include his nephew and apprentice Henry Holland in 1876), notable for their precision innovations and having created some of the world's best known calibres - and Y.O.U. have the highly anticipated unveiling of what promises to be "The World's Most Luxurious Range Rover" ever.

I could easily ramble on about this ravishing special edition Range for days (available on the Range Rover Supercharged and TDV8 Range Rover Autobiography), but, I'ma let my man Overfinch COO, Neil Underwood tell it: "There has always been a great deal of talk in the media, speculating that Range Rovers could start approaching Bentley levels of luxury - for one hundred fortunate customers, that will now become a reality. We have worked closely with designers, engineers and the quite astonishing craftsmen of Holland & Holland, who have helped us create the most exclusive, most luxurious off-roader ever built.". Whoaaaaaaa! Say no more. Wait! I just realized that this super SUV comes with 2 shotguns! Holy shit!

Louis Vuitton x Camille Scherrer Present: Art, Fashion x Architecture

The Balmain Men's Black Leather Jacket For Fall/Winter 2009 = Money Talk$, Bullshit Wears Lesser Leathers.

"New from Balmain is a textured, layered, quilted twist on a wardrobe mainstay, the leather jacket. Though it might hurt your pockets, you’ll look like a million spankys with new Parisian piece. $4189."

Information Courtesy Of: Dailydrop.Com

Available Online Here: Colette.Fr

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Although not necessarily the case, my pursuit to distinguish the urban from the urbane and bring more sophistication to the game often does lead me to the skies as I hang on to sky rocketing designer price tags destined for the stars. Fuck it! My aspirations fuel my fires.

Now, if Y.O.U. already think that such luxury labels as Christian Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Hermès are pricey (and they ARE), be prepared to become highly and personally offended by the ultra expensive House of Balmain.

Founded in 1945 by Pierre Balmain, this firm once known simply for extravagant yet classic evening gowns, now, under the decadent direction of Chief Designer Christophe Decarnin, is all about walking the razor's edge of contemporary fashion.

I can't front, when the Balmain name was on it's death-bed and headed for bankruptcy, snatching up a new designer and completely reimagining this wholesome brand in Paris party girl style took some cajohnes. Maybe the powers that be felt that they had nothing to lose and everything to gain. And gain they did. Starting in 2005 Balmain has once again risen to the heights of the haute couture hierarchy and recently introduced their 1st men's collection @ the Paris shows in January of 2009.

This simply gorgeous Balmain Men's Black Leather Jacket for Fall/Winter 2009 is truly an exercise in understated opulence. Price of admission: $4,189 USD. Stuntin' on your entire city: Priceless. Yeah, I'm gonna have to be 1 of the 1st rappers to name drop this over the top brand. Wait for it. Your fake Louis duffle bag makes me chuckle! LOL. Holla @ ya boy in BK!