inCOLOR TV visits London Alternative Fashion Week and interviews three talented young designers.

It’s that time of the month again as we bring you another amazing event.
Live & inCOLOR Presents Junk Prints by Chanel Kennebrew featuring DJ Bonnie Danger at Gallery Bar in NYC.

An artist, illustrator and designer of the clothing and accessories line Junkprints, Chanel Kennebrew is a true “boss lady.“
For more on Chanel & Junk Prints check out her inCOLOR feature - Get Love Drunk Off Her Junk: Chanel Kennebrew

Join us as we bring you art, amazing music and pretty awesome people to mingle with. See you there!

I have received past emails from people in response to inCOLOR’s Craigslist ad for contributors, some calling me crazy (among other things) for offering an unpaid position and others asking me if I was on drugs for thinking a past VP of Marketing with over 30 years of working experience might be a bit over-qualified for the position being offered. Needless to say, I was pretty shocked and taken aback after receiving emails calling inCOLOR reverse racism for only featuring people of color.

Is inCOLOR racist? I never thought so and I still do not think so. In response to one the emails I wrote:
The idea for inCOLOR came about after the July 2008 issue of Vogue Italia was released. There was a bunch of talk about the lack of people of color in fashion. Rather than arguing whether or not that is true, I believed that if you felt that they are not being seen or heard then do something about it.  A mentor of mine (who happens to be a white woman, but that is totally irrelevant) suggested that I include other aspects of art. I also decided to focus on up-and-coming artists, after all if someone doesn’t write about it, no one will know about it. So here is inCOLOR today, not a racist, non-inclusive site, but rather a site letting people know that these amazing artists do exist.

When I came up with idea of inCOLOR I was very excited with idea of creating not just an online publication but a network. A network of talented contributors featuring talented artists of color. In both cases I felt that giving people the opportunity for others to see, hear or read their work was a great idea, but now confronted by these views I wonder what other people think.

I recently wrote in my personal blog about being confronted with ideas of race and some issues arose for me:
1. Do the effects of past discrimination such as slavery and other social injustices still have an effect on the world today?
2. In racial discussions do people look at me and think she only thinks that way because she is black or because she is from Africa?
And lastly, should that make me not voice my opinion? Well I would love to hear your opinion.

I hope you all enjoyed reading this week’s Designer Spotlight featuring Anitra Michelle of the fabulous line PLUTOCRACY. Check out the BEPLUTOCRACY video below which premiered during her Fashion Week presentation:

Live & inCOLOR presents Jade ♥. The second in the series of monthly events brought to you by yours truly, inCOLOR. Like we said, last month was just the beginning. We are bringing inCOLOR off the web and to a location near you!

Join us at Leopard Lounge for the one and only Jade ♥ and the sounds of DJ Bonnie Danger. See you there at 6pm to enjoy some happy hour drink specials and great music all night! Oh wait, did I mention it’s FREE. See you there!

For more on Jade check out inCOLOR’s feature here.

We met Brittany Bosco a few months ago. She was fresh off her European tour and deep in the process of recording her debut album Black. She promised Black would go “back to the true essence of rock ‘n’ roll. Singing like it hurts—like Tina [Turner].“ Bosco dropped the link to “Ragdoll,“ the first leak from her new album, a sneak peek at the end product of so many late ATL nights. Brittany Bosco doesn’t disappoint. “Ragdoll” hurts .... and it’s never sounded so good.

To download Brittany Bosco’s “Ragdoll” and Spectrum 2.0, go here. And keep checking back for more exclusives.

Calling all artists and art lovers! Please join the arts & media innovators at inCOLOR for a night of art, fashion and music. Mingle with fellow movers and shakers in the art industry and swap ideas with the fashionista next to you. Get to know a little more about the creative minds in your local community and show off your own artistic finesse too!

Live and inCOLOR presents F.P.P.O. will take place on Jan. 28, 2010 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at TAG Galleries, located at 732 S. Broadway. Come out and network with the newest generation of artists: generation you.

Featured artist of the night Terry Plater is a Baltimore-based artist and graphic designer known for his cool, up-and-coming T-shirt line Fresh Toppings. Plater was one of the first local designers to be displayed at the downtown Di[ɘ]ce Boutique , located on 1211 S. Charles Street, and was previously featured on inCOLOR. Some lucky winners will also walk away looking fresh with an exclusive inCOLOR + Fresh Toppings T-shirt giveaway!

TAG Galleries was developed with the goal of bringing together the top artists of the current generation and connecting them with a larger market of people seeking unique expression, and they’re teaming up with inCOLOR for one night only! This event is the first in a series of publishing events inCOLOR will be holding in 2010, designed specifically with the modern artist, designer, musician and photographer in mind.

Stay Live and inCOLOR to know the who, what and where of what’s happening within the art community. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/in_COLOR and become a fan on Facebook at facebook.com/LiveandinCOLOR.

On Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2010, Haiti was hit by a magnitude-7 earthquake that devastated the capital, Port-au-Prince, and the surrounding areas.  Assistance has been given from many parts of the world and we at home can also take part in helping with the relief.  Here are links to different organizations where donations can be made:

Red Cross
Americares
Yele Haiti
MercyCorps

It is easy to forget that Chanel’s creative director Karl Lagerfield once was carrying a few extra pounds, especially when you consider his quotes concerning weight. A few months ago, for example, he proclaimed, “No one wants to see curvy women” in fashion, explaining that, “these are fat mummies sitting with their bags of crisps in front of the television, saying that thin models are ugly”. But fast forward a few months and he is shooting burlesque star Coco a Go Go in Chanel’s beautiful ateliers for V Magazine‘s highly anticipated plus-size issue. Fashion can be so forgiving.
And the icon isn’t alone! Joining in to support V Magazine‘s celebration of women of all shapes are the likes of photographer Terry Richardson, famous plus-size models Crystal Renn and Mia Tyler, and stylist Nicola Formichetti. Known for its edgy editorials, V Magazine‘s issue, which hits stands on the Jan. 14, sees curvy women in body-conscious dresses, skinny jeans and waist-hugging T-shirts. The issue features two covers: one with “Precious” sGabourey Sidibe and the other with size-zero actress Dakota Fanning. Highlights include editorials of lean model Jacquelyn Jablonski in the same fashions as plus-size model Renn. Creative director Stephen Gan says of the venture, “Big, little, pint-size, plus-size — every body is beautiful. And this issue is out to prove it.“

Visit V Magazine online to see images from the spreads One Size Fits All + Curves Ahead.

Hello inCOLOR readers,

We want to thank you for all of the support we received from you this year that fled by us so quickly. Though we are still pretty young in this online publishing business, please keep in mind we’re workin hard to keep you in the know of the latest artists, fashion, music, photography and entertainment from metropolitan cities around the country (and soon from around the world).

We are excited to announce that for 2010 we will be providing you guys and new comers with publishing events that will be taking place in awesome galleries/lounges in east coast cities like NYC, D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia. Stay live & inCOLOR to receive updates on the artist we will be presenting, our events giveaways and sponsors. All of the events are RSVP exclusive with the opportunity to extend an invitation to friends that are not yet in.

Look forward to our new monthly newsletters starting January 6th.The newsletters will let you in on artists being featured on our website, events and venues we’re hitting up and want to invite you to, a community billboard for our artivist, and last but never the least our monthly music playlist and podcast.

Happy Holidays and warm wishes from all of us at inCOLOR

Obama’s plan to end corruption from health insurance companies and incorporate a government-run health care system is considered ambitious by his supporters and controversial by those who oppose his agenda.  Even some of his followers question a public option mostly because they don’t want to pay for something they already have and because they are worried about a debt that was already substantial before Obama and his agenda got into office.

There are many who have health insurance and are content despite the many reasons they shouldn’t be (i.e. denying coverage to individuals with pre-existing medical conditions and sky-rocketing healthcare costs despite having billions of dollars in waste and inefficiency).  But for the some (probably only a handful) who don’t have to deal with the aforementioned ills they think a health care bill that includes a public option is an unnecessary expense—they should try to explain that to the families who know if they had this “unnecessary expense” of an option they would still have their loved ones with them.  They can only make that argument with conviction to like-minded individuals.  Unfortunately, some of these individuals are in the Senate—Republicans and some Democrats alike.  Their titles are different but, the one thing that binds them is their love for conserving money, unless of course if it is used for a war.

Throughout the past few years and even more so now, we’ve been told that our nation is already in debt and that adding to our debt will be disastrous, particularly for the younger generation who will be footing the bill.  As one who is part of the young generation I don’t mind paying taxes that will help out those that can’t afford what should already be their right to have.  As Americans we already help pay for public schools, law enforcement and other social services that benefit us, why shouldn’t we pay for health care? 

If we are willing to go in debt fighting in a war—which by the way takes lives— why are we so hesitant to invest in something that will, without a doubt, save lives.  Many of us invest in college and in most cases, our money is well spent; If we aren’t able to get a job as soon as we graduate, at least we are more well-versed than we were as incoming freshman—but I digress.  Public health care is necessary and Americans need to realize President Obama is conscious of the deficit and one of his main health care goals is to control health care costs.  Rarely is any kind of public service free, and like I said a public option is worth the investment. 

Having a health care reform bill that includes a public option is way overdue and we can’t let the voices of the selfish (who often disguise themselves with the label “conservative”) cost us progressive legislation that will help millions have a better chance at life.  This historic bill is not perfect and if it passes it still will have imperfections, but it is definitely going to have a lasting impact on Americans.
If you’re unsure about what the health care reform bill entails and why it’s so necessary for ALL Americans go straight to the source:
http://www.healthreform.gov/
http://www.whitehouse.gov/assets/documents/obama_plan_card.PDF

That’s right! It’s the first ever inCOLOR Giveaway and we have teamed up with inCOLOR’s featured designer Bukky Are of House of Versatile Style to offer this limited edition, not yet in stores, one-of-a-kind piece. So tell us about your one-of-a-kind style and you could be rocking the one piece t-shirt this new year. And fellas don’t feel left out, you are more than welcome to submit your entries and win the tee for that special lady in your life. Just remember to have your image uploaded along with a caption describing your style to inCOLOR’s Facebook page. The deadline is now Monday January 11 at 11:59PM.

Recently, I went to an art and book convention to help my mother promote her publishing company, F.O.L. Press. Our stand was within viewing distance from an obnoxious bright yellow and green sign screaming “BEAT BLACK KIDS: What have you been beat with?” After hitting the peak of discomfort, my mother nudged me. “Go over and see what that book is about.” After expressing my discomfort (due to an abused past under a different caretaker), I went. I inquired about the book; to my surprise and pleasure it was about why NOT to beat black kids. Finally! After a bonding session, I went to my mother and excitedly explained the book to her. Of course, my mother disagreed along with the other older women surrounding the table.

I think it’s sad and pathetic that not abusing your children is a revolutionary thing. How are we supposed to become leaders of the future and no longer be a minority constantly subjugated to negative stereotypes when there is something clearly wrong with our upbringing? Though we try, we can no longer fully blame white people for keeping us down while we are keeping ourselves down. Though there are racist people out there, they mostly are doing their own thing. We need to do our own thing and stop complaining as a people and reevaluate ourselves. First, we should start in the beginning of one’s life: childhood.

Beating a child may stop a particular action but, look at the long-term effects. It causes hate, making the child act out in some other way usually making the child worse off. I still flinch when someone raises their hand and I’ve never been confident.

It’s hypocritical when parents talk about the atrocities of slavery and the treatment of blacks in America when, at home, they are using the same or similar type of abuse. Hitting will always have the same effect on someone whether the authority is between a black and white adult or a black adult and child. It’s hypocritical when adults curse in front of or curse out their children and when the child gets in trouble for doing the same exact thing in school resulting in that punishment. It’s a vicious cycle of post traumatic slave syndrome that will continue to perpetuate as long as we don’t change our mindset. I seriously recommend “Beat Black Kids” to every parent and parent-to-be. Our future may depend on it.

These days one would think that someone appearing in blackface is without a doubt a taboo but apparently not in France.  In French Vogue’s October Issue model Lara Stone appeared in blackface which, understandably, ruffled a few feathers.  This matter may seem fleeting or minor to some but it resonates with many black women who are in the process of finding their identities in a wide society that holds narrow views on beauty.  French Vogue probably had no intension of initiating racial controversy.  However, simply blaming their lack of sensitivity and commonsense would be letting them off too easy.

As an open-minded individual who respects artistry and creativity in all forms I would have liked to give them the benefit of the doubt but I began wondering if that would be in vain.  As Americans living in a diverse country we are more privy to racial taboos—but the French are not off the hook yet.  France, just like America, has history involving slavery and, although not as prevalent as in the U.S., blackface’s iconography.  Therefore, French Vogue cannot use ignorance as an excuse.  There are those that may argue that the spread was a far cry from racist because the images do not visually perpetuate black stereotypes (i.e. laziness) but that reasoning is in itself lazy; racism does not necessarily have to be blatant.  French Vogue’s intentions may have been admirable in the artistic world but they have to understand that their audience is more diverse and, unfortunately for them, more perceptive than they think. 

There are many gorgeous black models that could have done a great job yet American photographer Steven Klein, perhaps trying for an avant-garde approach, used a white model to portray a black woman.  These images may be discouraging and rightfully so; historically, African-American women have had to struggle with appreciating their unique beauty in an environment where it’s encouraged to assimilate to the prescribed mold.  It would have been one thing if the spread included a black model portraying a white woman—therefore negating any racist connotation—but they chose not to.

Racism and, in this case, lack of sensitivity will most likely continue to exist but it is our job to point these instances out and act accordingly.  As long as we continue to embrace our beauty and uniqueness the ignorance of others will fail to distort the way we perceive ourselves. 

This is the time of year where the haves are separated from the have-nots, and though the holiday season is about something more, there’s nothing like a child’s face when opening a gift. There’s nothing like giving something that wouldn’t have otherwise been gotten. A philanthropist, promoter, videographer, budding photographer, emcee and traveller rolled into one, feleciacruz, one of the founders of the nonprofit Fighting for Futures, is committed to the cause. “At the end of the day, if we’re not doing something, all of us collectively, to give back to other people, what is it really worth?“ Fiji to Cambodia to India to New York City, Fighting for Futures remains true to their creed:

Fighting for Futures is an organization that uses creative means to empower unprivileged youth around the world.“

Fighting for Future spent most of the summer of 2009 promoting benefit shows for Chanty, a young girl from Cambodia, who was then provided money for school/supplies, food, transportation, etc., to ensure that she received the best education possible. Check out a segment of the 30 seconds in 30 Days series, from July 2009, below.

For a while now, Fighting for Futures has been making things happen year round, creating opportunities and platforms, such as event and marketing campaigns, for artists to give back in their own way. The team of artists and supporters behind Fighting Futures, including Eric Sosa, Sid Muralindhar, Tammy Warner, VR PHOTOGRAPHY and Initiative Radio with Angela McKenzie, among others believes, “Artists, support. Whatever you’re doing, you can utilize that to give back to somebody. You don’t have to go to Cambodia ... you don’t have to sit a village in India with no water. That’s what I choose to do. My whole life I’ve always just wanted to do what I love, and at the same time do things for other people.“ Fighting for Futures’ latest event is a joint venture with Toys for Tots. On December 4th, Fighting for Futures, Natalie Crue, and Sosa Management present HOLIDAZE: A benefit concert for Toys for Tots and Fighting for Futures featuring some of New York City’s hottest underground hip hop artists. “We have a lot of things going into this show. All these people have to be giving everything they have towards a good cause,“ and there’s no doubt that they will. The lineup for HOLIDAZE is stacked, feating performances from Dres from Black Sheep, Eric Sosa, Terry Poison, Prophit, Warren Britt, Spills vs feleciacruz, Hasan Salaam and many more, as well as live painting from well known artists Lichiban, Marthalicia and Danielle Mastrion. The show kicks off at 9pm at Crash Mansion. Entry is $10 + an unwrapped gift at the door.

For more about Fighting for Futures go here.

A young blond white woman enters an elevator. The next floor, a young black man wearing a suit enters soon after. The elevator closes. The white woman grabs her purse for dear life. As she clutches to whatever money she may have, the black man begins to speak to the audience about the constant racism a black man faces upon entering an elevator. He explains that she may think he doesn’t notice but, he does and “it makes me want to snatch the f**king purse out of your hand and beat your racist ass to the ground,“ he retorts angrily. But rather than resorting to the stereotypical racism expected of him, he takes the higher road ... and “boos” her, consequently scaring the crap out of her, causing her to instinctively offer him her purse for a second.

This is Reckless Tortuga, the sketch comedy group that is blowing up all over youtube and facebook. When I first saw this video and the whole “Racism in the USA” series. I cracked up and sadly enough upon watching the crew’s hilarious videos, I couldn’t help but feel sad because I could relate to his situation. Though I did not directly relate to the elevator video, I did relate to “Racism in a Car” video. This video discussed the infamous move where a white person sees a black person and immediately rolls up his or her windows and locks their doors. Other videos include “Racism at the Bus Stop” and “The Blind Date.“ Each time when something inappropriate happens, protagonist Eric Pumphrey stops to say the thing that no one says but every minority is thinking. Soon after, he comes to a resolve that makes the appropriate, hilarious action usually resulting in chaos.

Reckless Tortuga is an independent sketch comedy group consisting of director, Jason Schnell along with actors and writers Lindsey Reckis, Eric Pumphrey and Rachel Miner. According to the recklesstortuga.com site, they started their group “one weekend because we wanted to make some funny videos.“ They sat down, wrote a few PSAs and shot them soon after. “Since then we have become addicted to making sketch videos.“ This group has a lot of talent and I look forward to their next videos. Check them out but I warn people who do not relate to this or are guilty of this, you will probably become hugely paranoid … which might be for the better.

While on my way to Philly for an art festival, my mother turned on The E.N.D. (Energy Never Dies), the Black Eyed Peas’ latest CD. As I was reading, my ears were battered by the sounds of synthesizers, bad rapping and talking -not singing - to the melody of the keyboard and other instruments that were utterly unrecognizable. I couldn’t tell if the whole CD was that bad or if, like Jonathan Swift’s A Modest Proposal, it was a satire perhaps about the status of today’s music. As I yearned with every fiber of my being to rip my ears out, I couldn’t help but wonder: is this what music has turned to? Have the administrative emperors and empresses of the music world become completely tone deaf? Has music been reduced to nothing but two-step beats and abstract voices? Are real singers destined to be confined to idol shows and church choirs for the rest of their lives?

We’ve come so far from the days of the days of doo wop, scat and even boy bands. Some say for the better, others for the worst. I believe it’s time for a musical revolution. But where do we go from here? Do we take a step backward and look towards old-school hip hop, doo wop and classical music? Or do we invent a new, original sound that will become its own classic and inspire future generations? Could we possibly find something deep within the hybrid bands hailing from many-a-genre? Or it is it a short lived kick, destined to fail after several weeks in the number one spot? We’ve seen those like Prince and Michael Jackson who successfully stepped over the rock/ r&b boundaries but, was it a case of good timing or something else?

According to WILL.I.AM’s acknowledgements on the Black Eyed Peas CD, “It is the END of that wonderful era … It gave birth to wonderful artists, fantastic and beautiful memories … it is the END of that Paradigm … But the energy.never.dies.” Looking at The E.N.D., perhaps if I listen closely, it is making a deep a statement. Perhaps The E.N.D. symbolizes the end of cacophony and the beginning of actual creativity. Or considering it came out on a wave of musical insanity, maybe it’s the end of good music and the end of creativity and the beginning of the Cacophony Era. 

The day that I met up with Kalae All Day in Union Square Park, we were interviewed by some inquisitive visitors about our New York stories. Check out the interview….

Man do I miss seeing my neighbors chillin’ on their Brownstone stoops until 2 a.m., clubbin’ it up at Caribbean City, the view of Manhattan from my rooftop and riding the A train home every night. And do I ever miss those flashing lights of Times Square. I will never look at movies filmed in New York City the same again.

For the summer, I had the privilege of interning at InStyle.com and worked with the most kick-ass online editorial producer Tiffany Black. For the record, I lived in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, and worked in Midtown Manhattan. So I rep Brooklyn. Whether you’re a New Yorker, a tourist or soon-to-be visitor, I’ve compiled a list of top 70 for you.

Where you must go, what you must do, places you must see, foods you must consume and clothing stores where you must shop:

1. Coney Island
2. Flea by the Sea in Coney Island (*Keep in mind for summer 2010, because it only happens in the summer)
3. Brighton Beach
4. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge
5. Jones Beach and the West Bath House Pool in Long Island.
From Manhattan, take the LIRR to Freeport then buses to Jones Beach
6. Franklin Park Bar and Beer Garden
618 St. John’s Place, Brooklyn, NY
(between Classon and Franklin avenues)
7. Radio City Music Hall
8. Staten Island Ferry
9. BCD Tofu House
17 W 32nd St
10. Dallas BBQ
241 W. 42nd St.
(located between Seventh and Eighth avenues)
Try their Strawberry Daiquiri
11. Grand Central Station
12. Highline Park
The High Line is located on Manhattan’s West Side. It runs from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to 34th Street, between 10th and 11th avenues. The High Line was originally constructed in the 1930s to lift dangerous freight trains off Manhattan’s streets. Now, they built a park over its tracks.
http://www.thehighline.org
13. The Metropolitan Museum
14. Brooklyn Botanical Gardens
15. Eat a sausage link or a hot dog from a seller on the street
16. The Time and Life Building
17. Hearst Magazine Building
18. Ride the A train - Get off the Nostrand stop (where I lived) – it’s a predominantly West African, Jamaican neighborhood. Check out all the mom and pop 99-cent stores. Find the store on Fulton where they sell “Brooklyn” tank tops for $6 bucks.
19. Element/The Vault - club/lounge
225 E Houston Street & Avenue A
20. Caribbean City – filled with mostly Crown Heights locals. Reggae/Carribean vibe. No top 40 or mainstream music here. It’s all about the dance, homeboys shouting “Brraaauh Briit Brit,” bangin’ on walls, jumpin’ on couches getting their groove on. It’s not the place to be unless you possess the rhythm and flava.
21. Statue of Liberty
22. Empire State Building
23. Ellis Island
24. Battery Park - Walk along the Hudson River
25. Take a photo with a snake man; you can’t miss the guy with a huge boa coiled around his shoulders
26. Catch a subway performance. Really pay attention to the talented subway performers (It’s a free show. Otherwise payment is on a donation/sliding scale basis) My fave skilled street dancers are the Underground Entertainers and the Street Rockers.
27. Find these stuffed mini cupcakes sold in Soho. Melissa makes silver dollar-size treats in flavors like PB&J, s’mores, tie-dye and cookie dough — yummy, tiny little things. Baked by Melissa, 529 Broadway at Spring Street
28. Apollo Theatre – It’s grand but, not as big as it looks on TV. Just outside the theater is a wall dedicated to Michael Jackson, signed by thousands of his fans.
29. Alvin Ailey performance
30. Free kayaking (Again, keep this in mind for summer 2010)
On the Hudson River: Pier 40 at Houston Street, Pier 96 at 56th Street, 72nd Street in Riverside Park
31. St. George’s Church
209 E. 16th St.
(Located at Third Avenue, near Stuyvesant Square)
Episcopal Church near Union Square
32. 34th Street
33.Union Square
34. Times Square
35. The Broadway Comedy Club
318 W 53rd Street (between Eighth and Ninth avenues)
If you see Erik Rivera perform, tell him I sent you
http://www.Erikrivera.com
http://www.broadwaycomedyclub.com
36. Freak Nasty. Find out when the next Freak Nasty event is and go – I never knew f%$^*%& could be described with such eloquence and hilarity. Talented spoken word artists pay tribute to sex and sensuality with erotic poetry.
http://www.burrowsink.com.
37. Comix. Check out Helen Hong’s K-Date
Laughter & Matchmaking. Korean Style.
The one and only matchmaking comedy show! Comics perform, then pair up members of the audience! Hosted by comedian Helen Hong!
http://www.comixny.com
38. Brooklyn Diner
212 W. 57th St. near Carnegie Hall
39. Carnegie Hall
40. Bronx Zoo
41. Junior’s Cheesecake
386 Flatbush Avenue EXT, Brooklyn
42. These clothing stores: Strawberry, 21st Century, Accessory, Mandee, Buffalo Exchange in Brooklyn, Mystique Boutique
43. Soho for some high-end shopping or if you’re a spendthrift, hit Canal street right around the corner or Chinatown up the street
44. John’s Pizzaria
278 Bleecker Street (Between Jones Street and Morton Street)
45. Le Poisson Lounge
158 Bleecker St.
46. See Bob Bordallo and Ebon Grace perform at various bars. Genre: Soulful rock, funk and groove. http://www.myspace.com/ebongrace
47. Watch an art battle
http://artbattles.com
48. Bombay Masala in Brooklyn
678 Franklin Ave.
Between Prospect Place and St. Marks Ave.
Best Indian food in New York City
(Ya’ll know how much I love me some Indian food)
49. Canal Street – Spendthrift shopping
China Town – even more thriftier (Don’t touch the T-shirts unless you’re gonna buy it. You’ll be charged, even if you don’t purchase them).
50. Dress up to see a musical. I saw “Phantom of the Opera” and “In The Heights” twice
51. Duane Reade – instead of Walgreens
52. Dumbo/Fort Greene Flea Market
http://www.brownstoner.com/brooklynflea/
53. Galapagos Art Gallery – watch a saucy burlesque/cabaret show
54. Prospect Park – free concerts http://www.prospectpark.com*
55. Lucky Strike = Bowling Alley + Spiffy Bar/Lounge
56. Wander around the Seaport Area
57. Take a pole dancing class at Crunch (My cousin, Jenilee Lucero, is a pro. She can definitely teach you a thing or two about working those hooker heels. Then swing on a pole on the L train at the last stop when everyone gets off and before other riders hop on. Or you could just do like me and swing on the pole when the train is still moving).
58. Rent a bike and ride around Manhattan
59. Stroll through Fifth Avenue
60. The Promenade in Brooklyn
61. Have a rooftop barbecue
62. Farmer’s Market at Jay Borough Hall
63. Afro-Punk Festival*
http://www.afropunk.org
64. Max Brennar
841 Broadway
(between 13th and 14th streets)
65. Sing Sing Karoke
9 St. Marks Place
Between Second and Third avenues
66. Movie Night underneath the Brooklyn Bridge*
http://www.brooklynbridgepark.org
Got to see Edward Scissorhands and met up with an old friend, Dylan Houle.
67. Brooklyn Ballet
http://www.brooklynballet.org/
68. East Village/Stuyvesant - Tompkins Square Park, my dog Babygirl enjoyed their park
69. Buggy Ride through Central Park (Take the buggy instead of the horse carriage, because the horses stink and they cost a grip)
70. Last, but not least. Slow the hell down.

And yes, I did go to all these places, witnessed these glorious sights and some. ‘Til we meet again, New York City. I’m still married to San Francisco.

(Photo credit: Uniqlo)
The collaboration between Jil Sander and Uniqlo had been the talk of the town for months. Finally the line, +J, hit Uniqlo’s SoHo store in New York exactly half a month ago on October 1. Since the crazy crowds on the first few days were too much for me to handle, I waited til the mania cooled down last week and walked in the store one night to see exactly what kind of future +J has brought. Situated in the middle of the store on the first floor, the collection was surrounded by floor-to-ceiling white sheets. The garments were very typical of Jil Sander: shades of black, white, gray, navy blue, and deep purple; simple cutting; minimal design; quality fabric. Now, the reactions to +J have been very different. Some think it’s boring, cliché, monotonous. Others, like myself, think it’s probably what Sander and Uniqlo had intended — to produce a collection that is classic, timeless, and everlasting. If you want something chic, trendy, and fashionable, +J would most likely disappoint you. If you are looking for something that doesn’t go out of style even after ten years, then yes, the future is here, right now, with +J.

While there are notably more fashion options for women, men should not feel left out. The following guide to men’s style will cover everything from closet essentials to dressing like filet mignon on a Hamburger Helper budget.   

According to an article by business etiquette expert Lydia Ramsey, “When you meet someone face-to-face, 93 percent of how you are judged is based on nonverbal data: your appearance and your body language.” In other words, you can be the most dynamic guy in the room, but no one will assume that if you do not express that through your appearance. To many guys, clothes are nothing more than fabric to put on thier back because of the “no shirt, no shoes, no service” rule that governs many public places. However, it is important to realize that clothing and personal style is a great way for an individual to communicate their identity. While there are notably more fashion options for women, men should not feel left out. The following guide to men’s style will cover everything from closet essentials to dressing like filet mignon on a Hamburger Helper budget.

Closet Essentials

Every man should own a good pair of jeans. Jeans may not be the most expensive item in a man’s closet, but they will prove to be the most versatile. Jeans can be dressed up to wear on a date or dressed down to work around the house. In the case of jeans, it is better to look for more classic cuts than trendy styles. Good jean choices are straight leg jeans, as well as boot cut jeans, which are slightly flared at the bottom. Buying jeans that are slightly longer will allow you to make alternations if they shrink. When trying jeans on, make sure they work with your everyday life. Can they fit your wallet and keys? Are they comfortable and not too tight? Do the belt loops hold your belt properly?

Khakis are another closet essential because you can’t always wear jeans. When you are purchasing khakis, look for a softer cotton fabric and a darker color for maximum adaptability.

Not every guy works in an office, like the characters in Mad Men, where suits are the clothing of choice, but it is important for everyman to own a dark solid suit. Yes, a dark solid suit. Not a purple suit with rhinestones or pink with a matching bandana. The look we’re going for is classic. If you only have one suit, make sure that it’s versatile enough to wear to different events, such as a wedding or a job interview. Be sure to get it tailored so it fits you perfectly because you do not want to look like a little boy trying on daddy’s suit. 

In addition to the suit, get a tie that complements it. It was stated earlier that clothing can communicate identity, but remember clothing should not be a substitute for personality. We’ve all had that teacher who wore ties with cartoon characters or cute little pictures on it. Don’t be that guy. You do not need to show that you are funny through your ties. If you are afraid of tie patterns, choose a small print or a solid color. Also, don’t be afraid to wear suit pieces individually. Try a suit jacket with a pair of dark wash denim or the pants with a nice button-down shirt.

Speaking of button-down shirts, they are another closet essential. They can be worn over T-shirts or under a suit jacket. Button-down shirts also can be worn underneath V-neck sweaters, which are another closet essential.

Now that we’ve got some closet essentials out of the way, let’s turn our focus to styling outfits.

First, every outfit should begin with a good pair of shoes. There’s an adage that says you can learn a lot about how a guy will treat his partner by the way he treats his shoes. We know that every guy who lives inCOLOR takes good care of his shoes, right? When choosing an outfit, work from the ground up by selecting your shoes, then pants, shirt, et cetera.

Try choosing a personal style icon and use him as inspiration for your looks. No, this is not weird, unless you begin to create a shrine to him in your closet; until then, read magazines and blogs for inspiration. If you like Pharrell William’s style, then find ways to incorporate it into your style. Remember, there is a difference between being inspired and copying, so don’t take it too far.

If you’re on a Hamburger Helper budget, you don’t have to focus on wearing logos and brands. Real businessmen don’t advertise something unless they are being paid to do so. Don’t feel the need to walk around wearing a shirt with a logo on it because you think it’s cool, that is, unless they are sponsoring you. Leave labels on the inside of the clothing, not on the outside. Plus, you shouldn’t wear Billionaire Boys Club on a Hamburger Helper budget anyway because it’s false advertising.

Fashion Trends 2009
To get some style inspiration and the scoop on trends for men, check out the following sites:

Men’s Style

Men’s Flair

The Fashionisto

Complex Magazine

Swipe Life

Where to Shop

There are so many options for men to shop, depending on their style, but below is a list of places that carry good pieces and can work with almost any budget:

The Gap : Good for basics, such as jeans, khakis, and sweaters.

Urban Outfitters : Good for trendier pieces.

Macys : Department stores offer a mixture of classic and trendier pieces.

Marshalls : Off-price stores offer high style for a low budget. However, clothes are not available online, so search for a store near you.

Don’t be afraid to try thrift stores or consignment shops. If you’re in the Greater Boston Area, check out Rescue.

We introduced you to SoundCheck a few weeks ago in What Do You Sound Like?. The monthly showcase is back and in full effect with a ROCKtober edition featuring Brooklyn rockers Shinobi Ninja, RockStar Society (RSNY), Anton Glamb and Overfab with Jasmine Solano on the 1s and 2s. The show kicks off at 7pm sharp at Santos Party House. Be there. Details below.

Ricki-L is hosting a launch party Wednesday, Sept. 30 to celebrate the grand opening of its upscale gallery in Montclair, NJ. From 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., designer Erica “Ricki” Levine will be on hand to meet with media and welcome guests.

Erica Levine established the Ricki-L collection in 2004. Her scultptural jewelry collection uses a combination of gemstone-quality faceted stones and rough-cut stones to create each one-of-a-kind look.

For one night only, there will be 20% off any purchase made at the opening event. Come out to Montclair and celebrate Ricki-L’s fabulous gallery opening. The Ricki-L gallery will be open Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and also by appointment.

New York may be the mecca of fashion stateside, but fashionistas know better than to leave Boston out of the mix. During Fashion Night Out on Sept. 10, 2009, several stores in the Boston area kept there doors open later so Bostonistas could shop the night away.

The goal of Fashion Night Out was to celebrate fashion globally and boost industry sales. Since Newbury Street is the epicenter of fashion in Boston, several stores that call Newbury Street home, such as DKNY, Cartier, Agent Provacateur, and Neiman Marcus, stayed open later than usual in observance of Fashion Night Out. When asked why her store participated in the event, DKNY assistant manager Alexandra Wachtel stated, “It’s an important night in the fashion world. We are welcoming customers and telling them about our brand.“ Though Boston’s streets weren’t as filled with glitterati and celebrities as New York City, the night proved to still be a classy affair as most stores offered customers champagne and sweet treats as they shopped.

During the same night, Cole Haan celebrated their new collection designed by tennis star Maria Sharapova with a party at their Newbury Street location.

For more Boston fashion, clear your calendars to attend events during Boston Fashion Week, held Sept. 25 to Oct. 2, 2009. Check out the Boston Fashion Week Web site for more information about shows and events here.

For the second year, Crosby and Miz Metro have brought the talent of NYC together for a free all-star mixtape, “A-NY Minute” Part II. This year, as a part of the Lower East Side’s annual Howl! Festival - named after “Howl!,“ the late poet Allen Ginsberg’s groundbreaking work - Saturday’s two-hour showcase gave passersby a glimpse into the world of underground hip hop. Simply put, this mixtape is the future, featuring the sounds of Nyle, Oveous Maximus, Jasmine Solano, Joya Bravo, Sciryl and many more. To download the free mixtape, click the link below the photo ...

Crosby and Miz Metro Present: A-NY Minute Pt.2