Grow Up: Re-Examining The Classic Polo Shirt (A Livestyle Continuing Education Course)

The Gant by Michael Bastian Heritage Stripe Polo Is Available Online Here: Shop.Nordstrom.Com



The MARC By Marc Jacobs Crest Logo Polo Is Available Online Here: Bloomingdales.Com



The Ralph Lauren Polo Custom-Fit RL Print Big Pony Is Available Online Here: Ralphlauren.Com



The Ralph Lauren Polo Classic-Fit Surfer Print Polo Is Available Online Here: Ralphlauren.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: On the heels of a recent involuntary sabbatical due to back spasms brought on by years of trap induced stress, I have once again returned upright in both my disposition and posture to punch-out my signature brand of pithy prose. It's been a minute. However, combine my writer's rust with a rapidly approaching Summer season that regularly offers fashionably sober men little sartorial options and, now, I've REALLY got an uphill battle on my hands.

What to do?

Welp, in times like this when cut and sew inspiration is in short supply, I find it comforting to re-examine the classics and peel the surface back on the obvious for a fresh take on style. Somewhat surprisingly, after taking a dirt nap somewhere back around 2007, the plain white t-shirt has been reborn.

Long gone are the XXXL sleep dress sized shirts of yesteryear. No, today's reincarnated tees are worn true to size and, if not strictly being used as a modest sweat barrier undershirt, are probably a v-neck. Bravo Hip Hop! Bravo! Convenient as they may be though, white t-shirts alone do not a Summer wardrobe make. Re-enter the polo shirt.

One need not actually enjoy this 1%er pastime or even designer de Americana, Ralph Lauren (NOTE: Y.O.U. really don't rock with Ralphie though? Like, for real my nigga? SMH. Perish the thought.), in order to dress like a true player in this "Sport Of Kings". Of course, for me, Mr. Lipschitz is the shit, but to lazily stop there would be to ignore a world, no, a universe of superlative options from some the world's greatest luxury brands. To that end, as your venerable curator of cool, I have taken the liberty of assembling a small selection of consistently fly polo styles perfect for discerning fashion hounds come the "dog days" of Summer. Take a look player. Yup, I still put the "G" in GQ! This is Livestyle.

Live From Australia: Tony Hawk Interviews Odd Future During The "Big Day Out" Tour @ Tony Hawk's Dissent TV.

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER: Hey, everybody knows that Odd Future et. al. is all "Kool And The Gang" with me, but they should be the 2nd reason that ANYBODY watches this video. No, please be crystal fucking clear that the REAL story here is that Tony Hawk spared precious minutes of his life to even interview these amateur anarchists/hobby sk8rs at all.

If Y.O.U. only know Tony Hawk from his numerous endorsements and his hugely successful video game franchise, but know nothing of his historic tenure with Powell-Peralta® as general of the Bones Brigade and why he is unequivocally the Michael Jordan of skateboarding, Y.O.U. are truly, truly a highly pitiable lost young soul.  SMH. In the profound words of one Rick Ross: "It's deeper than rap". Respect the architects.

The Uniform Experiment Double Hooded Trench Coat For Spring 2012 = Modern Trench Warfare.

"The trench coat is a timeless jacket are here is a reinterpretation of the classic trench coat by uniform experiment from their soon to launch Spring/Summer 2012 collection. At first glance, the sky blue vertical zipper on the chest jumps right out, a common detail borrowed from outdoor jackets. Apart from the aforementioned detail, the Hooded Double Trench Coat retains its traditional silhouette. Highly durable cotton gabardine fabric is used to construct the navy colored coat and it is fitted with a large, detachable hood. Buckles and buttons are all color coordinated for a unified look, while a single silver chain loop stand out on the waist. This piece can be ordered through NOA’S ARK online shop in Japan."

Information Courtesy Of: Freshnessmag.Com


Available Online Here: Arknets.Co.Jp

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Try as I must to be an ever forward thinking individual, alas, at least for today, I am undeniably a creature of the moment. This morning is still bathroom-floor-too-cold status, but the sun is strong and, according to my PIX11 Morning News forecast (NOTE: Gracias Lisa Matteo!), we're due for yet another round of mild sauce come the middle of this week. This entire Winter season has been unseasonably friendly, however, woven into the fabric of this more than welcome weather pattern has been some rain, but anybody who knows me knows that I am NOT one to complain. Nope., I'm a go getter homie. I am results oriented.

Now, with that in mind and with specific regard to the weather, when it gets a little damp and chilly outside I don't trip, I just reach for my trusty trench coat. In (FUN) fact, what was originally viewed as simply a wise adult addition to my wardrobe has since become a beloved staple of my tout ensemble ... and I think that I might have found a worthy heir to the throne in this stunning Japanese export. That having been said, allow me to enthusiastically introduce to Y.O.U. the Uniform Experiment Double Hooded Trench Coat for Spring 2012.

Cardinal to fully appreciating the Livestyle fly minded philosophy and, indeed, a cornerstone of this democratic charismatic authority, is a willingness to look far beyond the "now" coupled with an innate ability to embrace both the old and the new in a generation-defying, trend defiling group hug. And this mack daddy mackintosh invites Y.O.U. to do just that!

Leave it to Hiroshi Fujiwara (NOTE: The founder of Fragment Design) and partner Hirofumi Kiyonaga (NOTE: The founder of the $500USD hoody pushing SOPHNET) to know exactly how to spike this conservative punch with just the right amount of Tokyo streetwear flair. Aside from the sky blue vertical zipper providing a burst of color to the chest, this trench remains piously true to the classic trench coat silhouette. However, it is precisely that lone break from the orthodoxy of proper rain coat religiousity that makes all of the difference in the world! I guess the Devil really is in the details. Act like Y.O.U. know bro. Respect this navy blue gabardine dream! This is Livestyle.

The Raf Simons "Chain" Oxford Shoe For Spring/Summer 2012 = "Now, That's What The Fuck I Call A 'Chain Reaction'"

"Here is a great piece from highly coveted Belgian fashion designer Raf Simons with this chain oxford shoe representing a more conceptual side of the designer. With a shape and mould representing a more classic design with a premium leather upper and quality leather sole, the design is defined by the gold chain piping above the midsole providing a unique touch."
Information Courtesy Of: Slamxhype.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Indeed, nearly from day numero uno, I have eagerly employed Livestyle as my personal bully pulpit, an authority from which I have made it my business to excoriate any and all things lame and likewise elevate our collective modern palette to that of a culturally comprehensive sartorial sommelier of sorts capable of truly distinguishing the best from the rest. Me no play, play ... lol. To that end, exploring the timelessness of style as constant and fashion as its tangible cyclical consumer-ready rebirth remains 1 of the great joys of my life! Our latest principle proving primping P.I.M.P. piece comes courtesy of brilliant Belgian design diviner Raf Simons and his sick "Chain" Oxford Shoe for Spring/Summer 2012.

Now, off the rip, yall know that - when executed expertly AND thoughtfully - I am a sucker for classic conservative wardrobe mainstays receiving the 2-shots-of-Booker's-Bourbon-on-an-empty-stomach twist ... lol. The chunky slum gold piping on these bad boys got these standard-issue hard bottoms turnt all the way the fidduck up! On the real, every man over the age of 25 needs to seriously, seriously invest in @ least 1 proper pair of shoes (NOTE: And I damn sure aint talking about some "I'm-not-really-into-the-whole-idea-of-dress-shoes-so-I'll-just-cop-some-all-black-kicks-just-to-get-me-in-the-club" monstrosities either! Stop playing.) and, if you're bold enough, THESE could very well be them. Y.O.U. can't live life scared to pull the trigger homie! Watch and learn. This is Livestyle.

BONUS:

In my sincere pursuit of achieving and championing a greater cultural refinement, the conversation that is Livestyle requires that any individual participating in this ongoing dialogue be fluent in an array of disciplines. As such, when applicable, it is up to me to successfully fulfill my duty of due diligence to identify and clarify any potentially cloudy allusions that I may have made in any given entry ... this shit though? This is a bit different.

I mean, the oft referenced and recycled by the likes of lesser MC's (NOTE: Yup! I am looking directly @ Y.O.U. Remy Ma.) Jay-Z line sourced from his "I Just Wanna Love U (Give It 2 Me)" *Cue Dancehall Reggae Bashment Selector Voice* "chine" shouldn't even need an explanation my nigga. This is basic fly individual protocol my G. Act like Y.O.U. know!

The Mitchell & Ness N.Y. Giants Vintage Skully = I Want!

Available Online Here: Myfitteds.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: After suffering a potentially career ending injury @ the hands of the all-powerful cultural chauffeur Jay-Z when he, himself a former poster child of athletic merchandise pride, called for the Hip Hop world to jettison their professional sports jerseys and "Change Clothes" in favor of a more refined button-up look, Mitchell & Ness has quietly made the long crawl back to dominance in these cold unforgiving streets.

Yup, thanks to the still thriving retrosexual revolution, Mitchell & Ness snapbacks and now vintage style thick ass skullies have ascended to cover the crowns of moving-fashion-forward-by-means-of-rewind d-boys in the know! Aint nothing crazy expensive or super exclusive about these my nigga ... and that's cool. As with all aspects of life, sometimes it really just is all about simple pleasures. This is Livestyle.

The Penfield USA (Black Bear Collection) x Jamieson’s "Gillman Vest" = 1 Down Ass Down Vest!

"The Black Bear collection from Penfield is a premiere apparel line that focuses on traditional designs while investing in innovative fabrics. This Gillman Vest is a classic silhouette by Penfield and it combines high quality, 100% Shetland wool from Jamieson’s in Scotland. Multi-colored woven wool panels decorate the exterior on the shoulder yoke and pockets, contrasting the water resistant, navy outer shell. Open the snap buttons and it reveals yellow lining brightening up the interior, while housing 80% down and 20% feather padding inside it. This vest is currently available at end clothing in UK and select Penfield accounts around the globe."

Information Courtesy Of: Freshnessmag.Com


Available Online Here: Endclothing.Co.UK

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Admittedly, I am NOT head over "40 Below" Timberland rubberized heel in L.O.V.E. with this Penfield USA (Black Bear Collection) x Jamieson’s "Gillman Vest" - and it's ALL gay people's fault! Much as Adolf Hitler co-opted the swastika (NOTE: An ancient symbol for life, Sun, power, health and good luck dating back 3,000 years.) for his own horrifically maniacal purposes, forever tarnishing the kingly character of this character of antiquity in the murderous process, refracted light has now become singularly synonymous with same sex soldiers world wide. SMH. Whatever. I was never into rainbows anyway ... yall can have your symbols of pride, Y.O.U. deserve it ... lol.

All jokes aside though, while the 100% Shetland wool multi-color granny on "Molly Ringwald" (NOTE: Pardon self, that's cool kid current euphemistic speak for pure MDMA (Ecstasy) fool!) needlepoint woven panel accents that adorn this luxe lumberjack vest border on Gestalt theory mind blowing optical illusion territory, I DO appreciate the splash of color - especially during these gloomy "Fuck! It's already midnight dark outside @ 5PM" months.

Yup! Once again, Penfield USA takes the chip! Good shit!

The New LACOSTE® L!VE Collection = This Is Livestyle ... Literally!

Visit LACOSTE® L!VE USA Online Here: Lacoste.Com/Live/USA

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: To be sure, in these economic times of peril, even well insulated legacy brands have seen their typically solid financials take a brutal beating in the current market. Indeed, only the highest of the highend makers of luxury goods have managed to ascend the turbulent crosswinds that rattle lesser labels. And they solely have the detestable arrogantly affluent 1% to thank (NOTE: Y.O.U. know, the stuffed shirt guys that everybody gathered down @ #OccupyX_____________________ (Insert name of any number of international well meaning, yet quickly unravelling amorphous Neuvo-Hippie makeshift protest tent cities here), because those guy's pockets are unfadable! LOL. The rest of us - companies and common man alike - are not so lucky.

In the world of contemporary fashion this truth has seen many storied brands - in an attempt to siphon sales off of the ever resilient youth market - pair their good names with some of today's leading cutting edge outfitters; the results running the gamut from awesome offerings showcasing the contrasting brilliance of old and new to contrived clusterfucks that reek of the stinky perfume that is desperation. Thankfully, the new LACOSTE® L!VE line represents the former. Officially launched just a couple of months back in September of this year, LACOSTE® L!VE is much more than a convenient collaboration. Nope! LACOSTE® has created a younger, more vibrant brand and, as such, has positioned it independently from the original flagship label - La Chemise Lacoste - which was founded by René Lacoste and André Gillier in France waaaaaaaaaaaay back in 1933.

Now, in the interest of full disclosure, I've gotta keep it a buck with yall: Up until today I had been kinda heavy handed on the "SNOOZE" button with this offshoot. Lacoste has had a curious history in the hood. Starting sometime during the mid 1980's, as young felonious fashionistas used aluminum foil lined shopping bags to foil clothing sensors in department stores on their way to cutting out a nice slice of the "American Pie" for themselves, pricey purveyors of the preppy aesthetic such as Ralph Lauren Polo, Fila, Benetton and LACOSTE® set the streets on fuckin' fire! Coming up in Flatbush, Brooklyn I even remember the Izod Posse. SMH. Yall don't feel me.

In any event, LACOSTE®'s star faded for a time, but made a strong resurgence around 2004 and has pretty much held steady ever since. That having been said, however, I can be an unapologetic fashion snob, so when I saw 1-too-many fake Nike ACG boots wearing derelicts getting crazy with the green "Crocodile" logo ... I had to chill. Nothing personal my nigga ... I just don't do the obvious.

Now though, with the introduction of this new highly imaginative collection of colorblock hoodies, bold long sleeve plaid shirts, large "Croc" graphic jackets (NOTE: Perfect for "flamming"), uniquely printed polos and more I have A LOT to look forward to! Y.O.U. already know the colorblock hoody with the large "L" and signature "Croc" is ALL mine hombre! LOL. Y.O.U. see it. This is Livestyle.

The Brand New The North Face® Purple Label "Harris Tweed" Collection Fall/Winter 2011 = Great Scots On The Rocks!

"As part of its Fall/Winter 2011 Collection, The North Face Purple Label got together with Harris Tweed. Next to down parkas and down vests, they also present backpacks, funny packs and tote bags, all covered in the patterns of Harris Tweed. The collection is now available from Nanamica."

Information Courtesy Of: Highsnobiety.Com

Available Online Here: Nanamica.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Maaaaaaaaaaaaan, it feels like only yesterday that I was using 99 cent store commandeered clear nail polish to hastily patch up the terrifically tiny holes that threatened to cough up every single goose down feather that filled the innards of my The North Face® NUPTSE® bubble coat. Ahhh, those were the days ... lol. My niggas is ingenious! In any event, it is precisely such fond memories of yesteryear's gear that makes more than a few pieces from this brand new The North Face® Purple Label "Harris Tweed" Collection Fall/Winter 2011 a "must cop" for the kid!

Much as Mary J. Blige's fans delight in having watched her surmount a host of harrowing personal struggles to grow from a diamond-in-the-rough Hip Hop and R&B Soul singing songbird clad in oversized hockey jerseys and fitted caps to become the iconic genre defying AND defining woman that she is today, it is equally impressive for me to witness the evolution of my beloved The North Face® brand from utilitarian outfitter turned hood staple to emerge in 2011 as a certified SoHo pop-up shop worthy paragon of contemporary style.

Simplicity is the ultimate form of sophistication and this surely limited edition range embraces that notion wholly while still managing to infuse each piece with a modernity that only adds to the already sterling reputation of this storied outerwear label. Of course, it doesn't hurt that this collaboration is with Harris Tweed of Scotland - pairing the wilderness chic sensibilities of The North Face® with the hand-woven Herringbone and tweed majesty of the luxury cloth maker.

For some reason, fly shit like this isn't really readily available stateside like that (NOTE:  This particular collection is apparently a China exclusive.  Once again, America gets no L.O.V.E!  Word?  SMH.), making it A) a pain in the ass to get your hands on and B) that much more dope if and when Y.O.U. do! LOL. It is what it is. Challenge accepted! Let the games begin!

The Ralph Lauren Denim & Supply Classic Chambray Workshirt = G-ssential.

Available Online Here: Ralphlauren.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: According to the official company press release, Ralph Lauren's newest line, Denim & Supply (NOTE: Launched 8/11/11), is inspired by "vintage" and "heritage" sensibilities. I dunno, to me this premier collection just looks like some real extra #OccupyWallStreet-during-the-week-and-#OccupySomeNondescriptHipsterDiveBarInWilliamsburgBrooklyn-on-the-weekend type shit ... lol. Whatever.

Over the years, I have made absolutely no attempt to ever disguise my partiality towards Ralph Lauren Polo and the brand as it has evolved from it's humble signature blue label "horsey" beginnings and, in fact, have gone out of my way to trumpet my pricey prejudice publicly on many occasions; this post shall be no different.

So, yeah, overall this line screams "pseudo-hippie", however, every dark cloud DOES have a silver lining ... or in this case a lining of the finest chambray. Yup, the Ralph Lauren Denim & Supply Classic Chambray Workshirt is str8 up good bread and is right on time for Fall. Y.O.U. simply cannot lose with an essential piece like this in your casual constant go-to rotation my G. Ralph Lo and classic Americana for the win! K.eep I.t S.imple S.tupid.

The Versace For H&M "Iconic Collection" Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Menswear Bomber Jacket = I. Want. This!

Information Courtesy Of: Nitrolicious.Com x NYMag.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Rise and shine my Livestyle devotees! This morning I invite one and all to raise a red plastic cup (NOTE: Hey, I'm in a hood mood ... lol.) overflowing with perfectly chilled Dom Pérignon Cuvee and Simply Orange® Juice fused mimosas and join me in a toast to the power of prayer and positive thinking! Today, divine intervention has blessed us ALL with the announcement of the Versace for H&M "Iconic Collection" Fall/Winter 2011-2012.

I have been chewing my lady's ear off (NOTE: No Mike Tyson.) for literally 2 years about how badly I have wanted to score a super tacky yet indisputably fresh vintage Versace print silk shirt ala Sean "You'll Always Be Puff Daddy" Combs circa 1995. True story. Additionally I have been both publicly and secretly petitioning my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to guide my wireless mouse from auction to auction in the hopes that I might find such an item on eBay ... in my size AND @ a decent price. In lieu of that elusive discovery, however, this collaboration looks to fit the bill - especially the black tar heroin velour body and silk sleeved (?) bomber jacket offering from the menswear line that I have chosen to feature for this post.

Now, apparently, initial word surrounding this financially-friendly-to-the-fashionista-on-a-budget collection hit the internet waaaaaaaaaay back in late June. How did I miss that? I don't know. In any event, since then information regarding this most comprehensive of ranges - including womenswear, menswear and, yes, even housewares - has been on patched tire slow leak status my nigga (READ: Y.O.U. haven't really missed much).

My previous obliviousness to this special conspiratorial cadre of clothiers collection of notwithstanding, they have now earned my full attention with this jacket! See Y.O.U. on the US release date of November 19, 2011! Stay tuned. This is Livestyle.

The Brand New Cornelian Taurus Canvas Fishtail Backpack = Fish Fry Fly.

"A fantastic new backpack has released from Cornelian Taurus, the Japanese accessories brand by Daisuke Iwanaga.

“Made of a strong black canvas with horse leather detailing, this is, of course, not your average backpack. The level of craft put on this is incredible with great work on the arm straps together with beautiful brass on the adjuster rings, two way zippers, press buttons and pullers. Features an amazing fish tail which can be worn closed or hanging. One outside zip pocket at front, two at the sides with press buttons and one zip pocket inside. Fully lined with leather trimmings.”

With so many backpacks in the market and most brands going down the trail/hiking route, we have to admit that this is a refreshing new look, with craftsmanship at its core. Por Vocacao has it in stock now, priced at 650 Euros."

Information Courtesy Of: Highsnobiety.Com


Available Online Here: Porvocacao.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: As a proud product of these late 1980's and 1990's NYC streets - a gloriously larcenous 10kt slum gold gilded age of boosting boys and girls equipped with homemade aluminum foil lined security alarm disabling "Lizzie" bags and oversized AND overstringed (LOL) JanSport® bookbags - I once felt a great affinity for backpacks; once being the operative word.

Indeed, sometime during the late 1990's, the formerly fearsome form of the "backpacker" was surreptitiously co-opted by Cro-Magnon Hipsters whom, after years of genectic grafting, have evolved (NOTE: Or devolved given your opinion of this race. Yall already know how I feel.) the feckless parasitic Trendoids that we all know and loathe. Almost overnight, the hard fought term "backpacker" was eviscerated by these agents of lame and went from being synonymous with real niggas wielding ice picks to Charmin® Ultra Soft pseudo-intellectual off-beat-rapper-listening niggas with incense and chewsticks. And just like that, the underground Hip Hop scene as I knew it was gone and an entire generation was lost. SMH.

In any event, while my contempt for anti-anything-mainstream-musically-merely-for-the-sake-of-being-a-contrarian ironic backpackers coupled with good ole maturity made me distance myself from bookbags as a whole, I kind of fux with this brand new Cornelian Taurus Canvas Fishtail Backpack. Handcrafted of strong black canvas and horse leather detailing, this luxe knapsack aint nothing to sleep on. Score 1 for the classy crooks! LOL. Good shit!

Live From Milan: Gucci Spring/Summer 2012 Womenswear (Full Show)

The Junya Watanabe Jacquard Varsity Jacket For The Comme des Garcons MAN Fall/Winter 2011 Collection = Str8 Jacket Cray Cray!

"We could simply not resist posting up another great outerwear piece from the Junya Watanabe Comme des Garcons MAN Fall/Winter 2011 Collection, next to the Duvetica collaboration, that we just presented.

Earlier this season the brand already released two varsity jackets in a more classic wool/leather combo. Now they combined the jacquard knit that they have been using heavily for their knitwear pieces and blazers Fall/Winter 2011, with the classic varsity jacket. The outcome is once again impressive and simply beautiful. These of course come in very limited numbers and are now available from END."

Information Courtesy Of: Highsnobiety.Com


Available Online Here: Endclothing.Co.UK

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: As I now walk these virtually snot-nose-child-free-until-3PM Brooklyn streets, Summer has clearly exited stage right post haste and given way to a crisp preemptive September chill in the air. Not that I'm complaining in the least bit though, this seasonal temperature dip only means that it's time for some fresh new fits - particularly of the outerwear extraction.

For men whom share my sartorial slant - a possibly unlikely yet, for me, completely logical marriage of conservative taste and liberal innovation - the Summer season doesn't give a real nigga much room to move with regard to clothing. Kicks and fitteds (NOTE: Or now, for many, snapbacks ... Ooooooooooo! LOL.) are the stars of the show. One can only wear but so many screenprinted t-shirts and cargo shorts - much of which will be forgotten come May of next year and replaced with more disposable shit. The same cannot be said for the colder months. No, the lionshare of the jackets and coats and jeans and knits that we purchase for these months will stand the test of time. Y.O.U. keep a dope Supreme "Supreme Team" Varsity Jacket (NOTE: Shameless "I actually own this" plug!) and Y.O.U. throw them Sunwear® v-neck white tees str8 in the trash with no remorse! Get it? Got it? Good. Now, onto more high flying matters.

Following in the brilliantly bold footsteps of his mentor Rei Kawakubo, Junya Watanabe continues his hot streak @ Comme des Garçons with this Jacquard Varsity Jacket for the Comme des Garcons MAN Fall/Winter 2011 Collection. Here the granny-gettin'-gully snowflake motif that C.D.G. has been flippin' for a few Winters now comes together in the form of a jacquard knit body - as opposed to the wool-blend body typical of most traditional varsity jackets - and butter soft Johnson's of San Francisco leather sleeves.

With more than a few unscrupulous Trendoids out there right now attempting to quench their blood lust for fads with Comme des Garcons, I L.O.V.E. the fact that this piece doesn't scream, "Hey! Look @ me in C.D.G.!" ... lol. It DOES scream, "Hey! Look @ me! I'm Heroin Chic!" though. And there aint nothing wrong with that Jack! This is Livestyle.

The Lanvin Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Ad Campaign Mini-Movie.

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Collection Designed By: Alber Elbaz + Ad Campaign Mini-Movie Directed By: Steven Meisel + Music By: Pitbull (!) = BRILLIANT!

Apparently, Watching The Carter IV Is A Whole Lot Funnier Than Watching The Throne AKA No Country For Zubaz Zebra Jeggings.

Funny Ass Picture Courtesy Of: Deftronic.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: In the interest of full disclosure, as I somewhat alluded to in today's 1st post, I didn't really watch the 2011 MTV VMA's. So, that having been said, I deadass had no idea - even after posting the video, which I again never bothered to view (NOTE: Blogging is NOT my life. Meet me in the trap whoadie.) - that Lil "Weezy F. Baby" Wayne was trotting around on stage during his performance on maximum flame in a pair of Zubaz nut huggers looking like Peggy Bundy circa 1989! What in the bloodclot kind of shit is this Blood-not wearing!? Like, why would he do this!? Niggas is buggin' the fuck out and yall are letting them rock like it's cool!? SMH. Our youth are in major trouble b. Chill. #JOKESONDECK.

The Supreme Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Collection = Tyler The Creator ... Tailored.

Preview The Entire Collection Online Here: Supremenewyork.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Here before Y.O.U. I blog, a man in complete control of my enthusiasms. So, whilst longtime Livestyle devotees know all too well the utter contempt with which I once viewed the Supreme brand, I have softened my stance - indeed, having taken an attitude adjusting dose of Ex-Lax® if Y.O.U. will (Question: Too graphic? LOL.) - and can now appreciate the high priests of streetwear chic in all of their rightful glory.

Yes, they are a true school New York City born and bred clothing cartel responsible for flooding the streets with varying grades of dope since 1994. That Supreme predates pretentious hipsters current Johnny-come-lately crush on all things skateboard culture is a fact that has NEVER been lost on me. However, also not lost on me is my vigorous sense of self and my lust for aesthetic exploration. To put it in simpler terms, I aint trying to do what everybody else does b. That having been said, to deny myself the indulgence of wearing any particular brand merely because it has become the toast of the morally bankrupt Trendoid class would constitute a crime of the highest order. I would be, in effect, robbing myself! Who does that!? Nope, not me. If I do that, the terrorists win. LOL. To that end, while I still tread lightly on Supreme NYC grounds, it gives me great pleasure to introduce Y.O.U. to the Supreme Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Collection.

Dropping bright and early tomorrow morning this range is stuffed to the gills with fishscale quality goods (NOTE: I know, I know ... I always manage to work some drug references into my writings. Hey, as I've always said, putting "grams in grammar" is just what I do ... lol). Some of these items are no-brainers and some of them are no-gos ... lol. It is what it is. But, on the real, overall I fux with this collection hardbody karate.

Now, of course, str8 from central casting, the usual stars of the show are all here! You've got your 5-Panel camp hats and "box logo" hoodies to be sure, but, what most impresses me with this offering is that, even with ALL of the little HypeBeast kiddies watching, Supreme was not scared to grow! By far some of the best pieces in this collection are the logo-less peacoats, jackets and sweaters all of which represent a well-heeled step in the right direction that sacrifices none of Supreme's rugged identity. Me likey!

The hoodies and the t-shirts and the hats are good money - that's a given - but to limit one's self to so few choices in the face of such great diversity in design would just be fucking stupid. Y.O.U. don't need hella logos screaming your arrival all day, everyday my nig. Trust me, I've been giving it up on some fly shit since I was too young to fuck! LOL. Stop playing. This is Livestyle.

The Brand New Christian Louboutin Mickael Flat For Fall/Winter 2011-2012 = Stay Strapped!

"From the new Christian Louboutin Fall/Winter 2011 men’s collection we present the Mickael Flat. The new mid top silhouette will release on October 28th, 2011, featuring buckles on the front and on the heel."

Information Courtesy Of: Highsnobiety.Com

CHRIS LIVE AKA SHAKER SAYS: Much like a step-child I ALMOST L.O.V.E. these new Christian Louboutin Mickael Flats for Fall/Winter 2011-2012 ... lol. Red lacquered soles for the win! It is what it is.

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.