Bey and the Biebs will compete in that category with the legit luxe label lineup of Bottega Veneta, Tom Ford‘s “Violet Blonde“ and Prada‘s “Candy Eau de Parfum Spray.”

The finalists in the Luxe Men category are “Armani Code Sport,” “Gucci Guilty Pour Homme,” “John Varvatos USA,” “L’Homme Libre” by Yves Saint Laurent and my personal fragrance fave, “Un Jadrin Sur le Toit” by Hermès.

Nominees in the Media Campaign – Women category include Marc Jacobs “Daisy” — but surprisingly not the controversial “Oh Lola!” — “Burberry Body,” Chanel‘s “Coco Mademoiselle,” Dior‘s “J’adore” and interestingly, if that’s the word, “Wonderstruck Taylor Swift.”

Thierry Mugler‘s “A*Men” campaign featuring amputee track star Oscar Pistorius will compete against “Armani Code Sport,” “Gucci Guilty Pour Homme,” “CK One Shock for Him” and “Eau de Lacoste L.12.12″ for Media Campaign – Men.

Nominees joining last year’s inductee, Elizabeth Taylor‘s “White Diamonds,” in the Fragrance Hall of Fame, include Elizabeth Arden‘s “Red Door” and Hermès’ “24 Faubourg” in the women’s category and “Acqua di Gio,” “A*Men” and Issey Miyake‘s ”L’Eau d’Issey Pour Homme” in the men’s.

Winners will be announced at the always glitzy Fifi awards presentation on May 21 at Alice Tulley Hall. [WWD]

- Finally the future’s pulling its act together. Google‘s new super high-tech augmented reality eyeglasses brings us one step closer to the Dystopian present we’ve been promised for so many years. Oh, and there are flying cars. [Huff Po]

- Misunderstood fashion designer Kanye West has debuted a new song called “Theraflu,” on which he waxes and flosses poetic about dining with Anna Wintour, “racin’ with Anja Rubik,” and dodging a curvaceous bullet in the form of Kim Kardashian. [Fashionista]

- Bravo, no doubt sensing a lull in fashion-related programming in primetime, has picked up a new show about LA vintage store, Decades, tentatively titled It’s an Old, Old Concept. [WWD]

- A fire in the basement of Macy’s flagship store at Herald Sq yesterday afternoon is still under investigation. But since it’s down the street from FashionIndie HQ, we’d like to officially state we burn down many things but never a department store. [NY Post]

- Beyoncé has finally made her presence known to her some 3 mil+ Twitter followers, announcing the launch of her new website, beyonce.com. I could watch her twirling that lace-front wig around all day. And have. [Bey's Twitter]

Meanwhile, can we talk about how Nicole Richie is giving serious face in this promo? Whose face, I don't know, but she's giving it.

Debuting tomorrow, Fashion Star tackles the business aspect of fashion and thus features buyers as judges. They not only decide who wins the big bucks, but they also bid against one another to carry a look exclusively. The show was taped over the summer to allow retailers time to produce clothes so that each week, the buyers can place orders after a designer’s runway presentation while viewers can order from the collection online the same night it debuts or in stores the following day.

Helping the fourteen contestants along the way will be host Elle Macpherson and mentors Jessica Simpson, Nicole Richie and John Varvatos.

Though only one lucky designer will walk away with the grand prize, according to the show’s creators, everyone’s a winner, with some designers nevertheless selling ”hundreds of thousands of dollars.” Probably because J. Simps shook out her extensions one day and some cash flew out from that booming billion-dollar business of hers. Remember that happened? [WWD]

Longsleeve Shirts by G Star
Boots by Frye

Clockwise from top middle (click photo above to buy):

Theory Caldin Jacket, $272.50

Barneys New York Two-Tone Skully Hat, $150

G-Star Tunnel Fil Shirt, $72

rag & bone  RB23X Jeans, $185

Frye Fulton Lace Up Boot, $182.99

Ernst Benz  GC10115 Watch, $4,600

Colombo Plaid Scarf, $179

John Varvatos V764 Sunglasses, $220

Varvatos, a noted music junkie, has previously tapped former actual junky Iggy Pop, as well as Alice Cooper, Cheap Trick and most recently The Roots for his campaigns. For spring 2012, photog Danny Clinch captured the Dayers, Mike Dirnt, Tre Cool and the eternally boyish Billie Joe Armstrong, against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline, perched precariously on an iron beam.

The ads were inspired by Philippe Petit‘s 1974 “Man on Wire” act — an illegal tightrope traverse between the Twin Towers — as well as Charles C. Ebbets‘ classic 1932 photograph, “Construction Workers Lunching on a Crossbeam.” [WWD]

Philippe Petit's "Man on Wire"

"Construction Workers Lunching on a Crossbeam"

Military Styled Coats

Outerwear is highly important when the winter season rolls around. Everyone loves a great looking winter coat, and for men the military styled coat is stylish but still masculine. These coats lie a bit beyond the waist and have a lot of design details that give it more of an edge than your average pea coat. Buying in a darker color, such as a deep navy or charcoal, is a sure way to complement any outfit this winter season.

Preppy is Still In

Preppy winter clothing has yet to go out of style, and is a great way to add color to your winter wardrobe. Preppy styles for men are comfortable, casual styled clothing that come in a wide variety of styles and bright colors. Brands to try: Tommy Hilfiger, D&G

Say Yes to Exotic Fabrics

Velvet is still in this season as far as fabrics are concerned. Men don’t need to stick to boring cottons or wools to have their winter wardrobe fit in. Cashmere, leather, and even fur is in this season for men. Brands to try: Versace, Etro

Heavy Knit Sweaters

Sweaters with a chunky knit in bright colors are definitely a wardrobe must have for any man along with Nordic sweaters. These sweaters will not only keep you incredibly warm during the colder months, but will also keep your wardrobe interesting and from running on the bland side. Brands to try: Versace, Hermes, John Varvatos

Go Gray Not Black

While black is classic and sleek, let’s not forget about the stylish neutral gray.  Gray suits and overcoats pair nicely with the bright garments that are in this winter, and complete an outfit without having to be so traditional.

Just because winter is upon us doesn’t mean that men can get sloppy. Keep yourself looking good by remembering a few of your favorite winter trends.

If you just can't get over your jeans then there is a simple solution: denim washed khakis. They'll give you the jean feel with the versatility of an actual pant.

The best pants accessory definitely has to be the suspender. That being said these trousers come their own pair of removable ones. What more can a guy ask for?

A wool pant is also on trend during the colder weather months and are guaranteed to keep you warm.

Harem pants are definitely for those guys on the cutting edge of fashion since most would never dare to step out of the house in these. A solid black is pretty versatile but if you want more fun feel free to play with colors and patterns.

Another classic mens pant is the chino. Again if you're bolder add a drop crotch and call it a day.

These pants are super sleek and sexy. (Not a word usually connected with mens trousers) The super slim pocket openings and faux leather paneling set these off in a major way.

Spice up your cords with one of this season's must have colors: mustard. Cords are an essential for any man's closet. If you're not that into the mustard trend a nice brown or tan will always suffice.

Remember those days when cargo pants were a major fashion faux pas? Not anymore! You can add as many pockets as you like to these slim pants and look super trendy while being able to carry a million things in your pants.

The easiest way to start is to find a piece of jewelry that’s done the mixing for you.

1. When you’ve got knives slung around your neck, no one will question the matter of silver and gold together. Surface to Air

2. A blackish silver with drops of gold deepens the mixture with an old time air. Stephen Webster

3. Hammer out gold atop a silver setting for a ring that kind of resembles a hand drum. Henson

4. Hey bulldog, get royally charged with a crowning cuff link. Tateossian

5. This chain linked cuff has a gold man out. Maison Marin Margiela

To bridge the gap, you could try a little rustiness. Like this cuff by Dsquared2.

When working with a multi-tonal look, you’re at liberty to mix it all up. These runway looks from Lanvin, Alexander McQueen and John Varvatos show how mashing up tones can be rugged, sexy and just plain cool. For the jewelry, start with gold cuff links and a silver watch when going for the brown and black suit look. If you’ve got mustard and gray going on, go gold bracelet, silver ring.

Will you do the mash?

Keep reading to see what types of shoes and examples of what’s hot for this season.

“I’ve been a huge fan of The Roots for years,” says Varvatos, “They are one of the most innovative musical forces on the planet.”

True story. Also, Black Thought, most underrated MC. There, I said it.

Danny Clinch shot The Roots at Republic Airport in New York right as they were getting off the plane — an homage to how rock stars traveled in the 70s. Creative director Stephen Niedzwiecki explains:

“The way The Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin and The Beatles traveled had a huge impact on the direction for this season’s campaign…Led Zeppelin’s plane had fireplaces built in. So that’s what inspired us to shoot them in that way.”

And that’s why Led Zeppelin is fucking awesome. Anyhoo, in addition to the airport scenario there are other “image-based” shots that will debut in the September issues of GQ, Esquire, Vanity Fair, Details and other fash mags.

And as a special treat, The Roots threw together a little impromptu number on the tarmac:

[WWD]

Here are a list of fashion gifts to dress your dad-

1. Mavi jeans offers great casual denim options for dads that need a great pair of jeans; Mavi $70-$100

2. Dress your daddy up in a great Chino GAP blazer; GAP $98

3.  There is a perfect fedora for every dad at Kangol; Kangol $48

4. Protect your papa’s peers with John Varvatos aviators; John Varvatos $225

5. If you’re dad is more rugged than opt for an Ariat belt; Ariat $40

6. Remind you dad to stay on time by getting him a Ted Baker watch; Ted Baker $180

7. Your dad can mix and match these Target dress shirts with about anything; Target $19.99

8. Hyden Yoo presents this great trench to keep dad both dapper & dry; Hyden Yoo $308

9. Give your dad’s casual look a twist with these A|X 20th pinstripe shorts: A|X $78

10. Preppy fathers need this American Eagle polo; American Eagle $25

Here’s a list of gift to make your dad’s life simpler-

1.  Give your dad a Supersmile this year; SuperSmile$6-$159

2.The Glenlivet 12-Year-Old is the quintessential Speyside malt; Glenlivet

3. Patch NYC provides the first handsome candle; Patch NYC $32

4. The  Hanro robe is very definition of classic-elegant style; Hanro $260

5. Give your dad the #1 voted vodka of 2033; Svedka

6. 1154 LILL Studios provides a roomy toiletry kit: 1154 Lill Studios $75

7. You dad’s face will appreciate this modern shaving set; Classic Shaving $263

8. HeadBlade has all the dad with shaved heads covered; HeadBlade$37

9. Booze & golf go hand in had so get dad this cooler with his clubs; Caddy Daddy $18

Dad’s are just big boys so why not get him toys-

1. Help your dad shave & sing in the shower with this fog free mirror; Sharper Image $50

2. Your dad can  have a sleek iPhone case and bottle opener all in one now; Uncommon Goods $20

3. Next time you to pass the remote he’ll pretend he’s in the Super Bowl with this remote; Macy’s$25

4. Now your father can carry the memories on his keys; Things Remembered $20

5. Get you tech savvy dad the new HP Touchpad before anyone else; HP $500-600

6. The modern dad can now charge all his devices at once; Sharper Image $40

7. Touch your father’s inner child by giving him a RC helicopter; JC Penny $20

8. Get your pops Beats by Dre earphones to keep his ear happy; Beats By Dre $120

Photographer: Christopher Hall
Creative Director/Stylist: Lester Brathwaite
Production Assistant: McArthur Joseph
Model: Fernando Diniz (Q Models)

A Close Shave. Sam never gets to see Dad in the mornings, so she woke up super duper early, threw on the first thing she could find and Dad taught her how to shave with him!

On Sam
Earrings – Urban Outfitters; Necklaces, bracelets – Urban Outfitters, Stylist’s own; Heart  pin – ban.do

A Knot in Time. Before heading out to a long, hard day at work, Lester fixes Dad’s tie. He wants to make sure Dad looks his fiercest.

On Fernando
Glasses – Nicholls; Hat, tie – Urban Outfitters; Bag – Fernando’s own; All underwear - Armani Exchange

On Lester
Glasses – Elizabeth and James; Polo – Urban Outfitters; Shoes, pants, blazer, Scarf – Stylist’s own

Bring All the Boys to the Yard. To celebrate his stellar report card, Dad takes Mac for a milkshake after school.

On Fernando
Hat – Urban Outfitters

On Mac
Shirt – American Eagle; T-shirt – Gap; Blazer, tie, hat – Urban Outfitters

A Night to Remember. Never too busy, Dad even took Amanda to her first Father-Daughter Dance at their local church/synagogue.

On Amanda
Dress, cardigan – Urban Outfitters; Shoes, necklace, flower, scarf (worn as a belt) – Stylist’s own

On Fernando
Bowtie – Urban Outfitters

Daddy Day Care. At the end of the day, Dad reads  from our favorite storybook, Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty. Tell us the one about Shalom Harlow again, Dad!

On Lester
Shorts, shirt, shoes, bookbag, hat – Urban Outfitters; Cardigan, vest – Stylist’s own; Glasses – Elizabeth and James

On Amanda
Blazer, shorts  - Elizabeth and James; Shirt – Gap;  Scarf, wedges – Urban Outfitters; Glasses -  Ventura

On Fernando
Glasses – Elizabeth and James; All shoes, hats, ties – Urban Outfitters

On Mac
Shirt – French Connection; Shorts, bookbag, pageboy cap – Urban Outfitters; Sweater vest, bowtie – Stylist’s own

On Sam
Blazer, shorts, shirt – Elizabeth and James; Vest, tie – Urban Outfitters; Glasses - John Varvatos; Heels – Sam’s own

Special thanks to Antonia at Shadow PR, Lindsay at DualStar, Natalie at Q Management and Traci at Urban Outfitters!

Front Man; Converse $59

Halford II; A-morir $400

Red Lines (Black Chain); Coco & Breezy $75

Original Wayfayer; Ray-Bans $159

Neon Aviator; Armani Exchange $49

Medium Aviator; Gucci $220

Sacrificer; Stevie Boi $170

Keyhole Sunglasses; Ralph Lauren $375

Kadena; Mosely Tribes $180

The Ferris Sunglasses; Quiksilver $99.50

Model 10.03; Activist $450

Brown Keyhole Sunglasses;  Topman $28

Limited Edition Wayfarer; John Varvatos $420

Rodeo Drives Designer Sunglasses; Palmer Cash $10

Mercury NB; Nooka $130

Legendary director Gus Van Sant photographed this awesome spread while Brian Molloy styled Pitt in Dolce & Gabbana, John Varvatos, Lanvin, Acne, Diesel, Woolrich, & Levi’s.

LINK LOVE: VMAN

Any John Varvatos fan knows of the designer’s obsession with the rock n’ roll scene…afterall, the man does have a shop located at what was formerly CBGB in New York’s East Village! But if Varvatos’ rock inspired clothing designs weren’t enough, Varvatos recently launched “JV’s Funhouse,” his own music centric blog! Through his blog, Varvatos highlights everything from concerts to music festivals and parties to backstage jam sessions! JV’s Funhouse will also feature monthly posts from “Born In Detroit,” Varvatos’ show on SIRIUS XM’s Faction channel as well as downloads of some of Varvatos’ favorite tunes!

Check out JV’s Funhouse here!

Looks like New York Fashion Week is off to a very, very good start.

Last night we partied our asses off at Johnny V’s Bowery spot for an exclusive private concert featuring NY rockers Alberta Cross and the one and only Guns N’ Roses. Axl Rose signed autographs front row and performed 17 songs including classics like Sweet Child of Mine, Paradise City and Welcome to the Jungle.

The scene at John Varvatos was insane, with dedicated fashion types mixing with true, blue rockers. Some dude behind me was looking to get his arm signed so that he could tattoo Axl Rose’s name into his arm and add it to a collection which included Slash; the chick in front of me was pissed someone spilled Heineken on her Jimmy’s.

All and all a great way to welcome in fashion week. Welcome to the Jungle.

We’ll have videos up for your viewing pleasure later today.

Check out John Varvatos here!

Find more photos like this on ENVY. THE FASHION NETWORK

LINK LOVE: GQ

The coat above is Marc by Marc and is only $298 from $798. Gilt Men includes: John Varvatos, PRPS, Alexander Olch, Nixon Watches, and more.

Click here to join.

As always, some great designers on Gilt Groupe…

Kiki de Montparnasse

Helmut Lang

Warren Tricomi

Zac Posen

John Varvatos

Just Cavalli

J. Lindeberg

Paul Smith Optical

GALLERY: RUNWAY RUNDOWN: John Varvatos Spring 2010 Menswear

Thanks NY Mag!

John Varvatos has a competition that you may want to enter-see above.

LINKAGE: thelovemagazine

Converse has announced that they are discontinuing the Converse by John Varvatos women’s line (launched only 3 years ago), effective April 24.

This will not affect the men’s wear line: “We have a strong relationship with John and are planning to continue both the Converse by John Varvatos footwear and men’s apparel lines as part of our on-going commitment to the growth of Converse.”

So sad since we just talked to John regarding launching his own women’s line, guess that won’t be happening either.

LINKAGE: The Pipeline via FWD

-vs-

I’m starting to believe that everything that happens on one side of the fashion industry manages to reciprocate itself on the other. Though women’s fashion tends to get more attention in the world that is fashion, the hype is often carried over to the men’s side as well. It just occurred to me the other day that all the big familiar faces in fashion have their counter parts. Take Agyness Deyn, put her in men’s fashion and she’s Cole Mohr. Not that surprising, but I saw one that sort of caught me by surprise.

-vs-

I have no idea who this guy is, but he is more or less the male version of Alice Dellal. I search far and wide but couldn’t find his name, but regardless I think all this back and forth of style just goes to show that the industry needs a new face who is going to change up the scene for everyone!

One of my personal favorites John Varvatos rolled out another stellar collection for Fall 2009. The collection is the perect collection for the trendy, classy, rocker in every one of us. The collection features some insanely perfect tailoring, great shoes, and small accents that really make the looks. Does John Varvatos ever put out anything that looks bad? Didn’t think so!

Gallery: RUNWAY RUNDOWN: John Varvatos Fall 2009 Collection

Courtesy of: Men’s Style

Although Helmut Lang himself left the company back in 2005, the company still impresses me with what the produce every year. This collection is one of my most sought after collections for this Fall (and rapidly approaching Winter). The neck work on the pieces is incredible, each one is different and brilliant. The collection reminds me of a John Varvatos collection, and you can’t go wrong with Johnny V. The collection is well composed, and gets two thumbs up for sure from me. The Helmut Lang collection is currently available at Barney’s and Barney’s Coop locations, so get on that.

Thanks to Skeleton Legs for the pictures.

Move over Form because John Varvatos does it again, and steals my heart as my number one favorite line of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Due to the fact that I can’t wear anything Form makes, I have to give my number one vote to the amazing line curated by the one and only John Varvatos. There is not a single item in this collection I wouldn’t wear. The colors, the prints, the textures and fabrics are all perfectly composed. I going to have to start saving paychecks now, because come Spring 2009 I’ll need some cash to buy this entire line.

Thanks to Selectism for ruining my bank account with these pictures

How cute is this Varvatos/Converse ad with Daisy Lowe? Daughter of Gavin Rossdale, Daisy has surely been making a name for herself in the fashion world.

Thanks DivisionStreet for the pic

John Varvatos, Thom Browne, and Michael Bastian talk about preppy style and what it means to be an American Fashionisto.

John Varvatos will be hosting a rock’n roll benefit for Vh1′s Save the Music, the store will open with a charity concert featuring house band, The Losers Lounge, backing up iconic special guest performers: Jesse Malin, Ian Hunter, Cheeta Chrome, D Generation (1st show in 10 years), Alan Vega, Handsome Dick Manitoba, Ronnie Spector, Clem Burke, Rancid and other special guests.

This probably won’t suck since Johnny boy has been dedicated to representing the rockers creed and has preserved most of CBGB’s original fire.

John Vavatos – 315 Bowery (near Bleecker) at 10pm

Courtesy Partycrasher.us

It remains, along with the graffiti and band stickers, some of them hanging by a strand of glue. The staircase leading to what once were the club’s restrooms, which have now been converted into storage space, is still covered in marker and stickers.

John’s love of music and rockstars allowed him to have a heart in preserving this monument to the 80′s wave of punk that once dominated New York. We’re excited about his promise of monthly bands and his must have spring collection.

John Varvatos & Wifey (r)

Daniel and I got the honor of attending the Pre-Fashion Week Party to debut the finalist’s collections. The designers include: Engineered Garments, Spurr, Steve Alan, Obedient Sons, and Rag and Bone. Along with the designers, the party was filled with industry celebs. I was personally struck by Isaac Mizrahi, who gave me a stare as he strolled by. Lauren Ezersky didn’t look my way, even though I tried to introduce myself. While John Varvatos was pleasant, as usual, and shaking hands with a smile. I love that man!  Micheal Kors dropped in for a min, Andre 3000 made rounds talking about his upcoming well anticipated line, and Tom Brown personified his collection wearing a shrunken suit that seems like it was tailored for a young boy.

Andre 3000

The models, who showcased each collection, stood on display in line two feet above the rest of the humans. They were all gorgeous and thin, most soo good looking that I was jealous of their prettiness. As waiters (also good looking) walked around with trays of Prosecco, fashionistas from all over strolled and mingled amongst each other. The abundance of Chanel bags was alarming and individual style not showcased.

Thom Brown

Each collection had its own individual details of the designers perception of men’s fashion. Rag and Bone idealized the collection with well tailored fitted suits, beautiful fabrics, and traditional concepts. While Steven Alan’s collection looked like Abercrombie reborn, same market, same approach to an already defined client. Engineered Garments could only be described with two words “farmhouse chic.”

Rag & Boners

After an hour, the party got monotonous, and we headed home to rest for Fashion Week. Well, off to sleep. Opening ceremony tomorrow at 8:00AM at the tents. See you there.

Rebecca