ADVENTURES IN PHOTOSHOP: Kanye and the Disappearing Jowls

Edited by Princess Glover

vs

I am almost certain that the editors of Details magazine thought they could shave a couple inches off of Kanye West’s otherwise puffy jaw and think no one would notice. A less subtle lightening of the eyes is also an egregious, if not incidental act. Taking into consideration that this is a men’s fashion magazine, I am highly doubtful of the latter. Giving that same deadened, blank head-on gaze he’s done way too many times before, a thinned out version of Kanye’s face, and a chest that’s seen too much daylight, comprise the March cover. At least they left the frown lines intact.

DESIGNER TO KNOW: Max Osterweis for Suno

Edited by Princess Glover

An aesthetically pleasing medley of rich brights, bold details, and ethnic inspiration best describe the debut label, Suno, the clothing brainchild of textile entrepreneur Max Osterweis. The Spring/Summer 09 collection is a playful ode to the women of East Africa and downtown New York as, incidentally, production takes place on both coasts. With the help of highly skilled sample and patternmakers in New York City’s garment district and talented artisans in small Kenyan workshops, you get one-of-a-kind, authentic pieces that incorporate vintage Kenyan kengas with contemporary silhouettes. The outcome being barely-there minis, leg-baring jumpers, sleeveless dresses, off-the-shoulder blouses, and lightweight, fitted blazers, plentiful in color and print, akin to wearable art.

GALLERY: Max Osterweis for Suno

WTF!?! Genevieve Jones

Edited by Princess Glover

I don’t know what’s worse: the fact that she looks like she’s on her way to a high school Valentine’s day dance circa 1993, or that she is wearing what appears to be sheer, black lace footies under some equally dated, gaudy platforms. If this is her attempt at eclecticism, she has failed miserably. Maybe she was trying to be ironic?

While attending the 2009 Victoria’s Secret “What is Sexy” List event at the Bowery Hotel in NYC this past week, the usually put-together Jones looks more tragic than sexy in a predictable heart-emblazoned blouse and high-waisted, too short for 30+ shorts that leaves little to the imagination. Honestly, what the hell is going on with her feet?? I expect more from you socialites.

RANDOM COOL: Robert Christian Malmberg Collodion Portraits

Edited by Princess Glover

Romantic and melancholic, those somber sepia-toned portraits from back when smiling seemed uncouth, has made a comeback thanks to Brooklyn-based photographer Robert Malmberg. In mimicking the early photographic process, which makes use of glass plates coated with a silver nitrate solution, or “wet plates”, Malmberg revives the misty, antiquated imagery of the 19th century resulting in artful, contemporary large-scale collodion photos that are eerily nostalgic. Makes for a great unique Valentine’s day gift, in a very Victorian sort of way.

GALLERY: Robert Christian

SHOP: “Amber” Jumpsuit by Wink NYC

Edited by Princess Glover

While listlessly trolling the internet recently, I came across this little piece of heaven and was instantly enamoured. Not that the style is nothing new, but this 70’s-inspired wide-leg jumpsuit by Wink is a spring must-have. Beautifully constructed, chic and relaxed, this v-neck one-piece is made from 100% sand washed silk and features a cascading ruffle detail along the racer back design. Lest you wind up looking like Disco Stu’s dimepiece, pair it with a skinny belt or some offbeat accessories for an up-to-date feel.

Available here for $396

DESIGNER TO KNOW: Edelweiss by Sarah

Edited by Princess Glover

Brooklyn-based Sarah Seilbach’s debut spring collection is an homage to basic construction that is simple, yet effectively unique. The former Vena Cava and Elise Overland intern channels her innate talent and scope of knowledge into clothing that is contemporary and eccentric and offers a hint of masculinity. Drawing inspiration from her German heritage, Seilbach integrates soft, angular lines and shapes with unconventional brights and traditional neutrals resulting in a refreshing take on women’s apparel. So refreshing in fact, that local boutique Thistle and Clover, in their search for new designers, has picked up the line—an impressive accomplishment for an upstart. Better put your orders in now.

MAG HAG: Pharrell for Nylon Guys

Edited by Princess Glover

As much as I hate to admit it, this guy can do no wrong—mostly when it comes to fashion. The billionaire boy does some posturing while looking ferociously dapper on the March 2009 cover of Nylon Guys. I really dig this ensemble, and as conspicuous as Pharrell may appear when it comes to style, it is innate and somewhat unassuming which is why he can pull off the skinny jean-standard graphic tee-fitted leather jacket look without giving off that repugnant poseur vibe.

Mob Wives Would Be Insulted

Edited by Princess Glover

I honestly have never understood the hype surrounding NYC streetwear label, Married to The Mob when it’s really nothing more than a tawdry compilation of trumped up basics bearing novelty ghetto proverbs and tacky, yet somehow dull graphics and details. Now they’ve released their Spring 09 lookbook featuring Kid Sister and I’m unimpressed to say the least. I mean, maybe the hackneyed 80’s, B-girl look isn’t meant for grown women, but I highly doubt anyone under the age of 17 would be allowed to leave the house in a vinyl raglan jacket claiming membership to the “Most Official Bitches Crew”. The hoodies, the tees, the windbreakers, and the cotton candy-colored stonewashed jeans are juvenile at best and are devoid of any true originality or style. The 28-yr.old whose outfit screams “I ain’t no holla back girl!”—not a good look.

LINKAGE: Mobliving