Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Music Spotlight: The Whitest Boy Alive.

Because I love music so much, I would like to feature a segment calling attention to some of my favorite artists. Why you ask? Simply because I feel that you and your life will completely benefit from such amazing sounds penetrating the drums of your ears.

First up: The Whitest Boy Alive.

If you haven't heard of them, your life is pretty much incomplete.
Erlend Oye, also the lead singer of Kings of Convenience, has such a soothing voice. I truly love their minimalist approach to music; the simplicity that emerges from each song resonates so pure. The instrumentation seems so removed from one another, but all the while so flawlessly married into one clear sound.

By far, my favorite song from them has to be "burning."


Fuck. this song is so amazing.
The guitar riffs. the bass line. [long sigh].

I can go an entire day and listen only to this song; that's the impact that it has had on my life.

Equally amazing is this video that has been paired with the song.



p.s. if anyone can tell me what this dance is called, i will love you forever.

Other honorable mentions: Inflation, Golden Cage, and Borders.

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Fun, Fun, Fun, Under the Sun.



Ah, it seems summer and the heat wave have finally made their arrival.
(a bit late if you ask me)
I despise when it gets so hot my body feels too tired to do much of anything other than to lie about helplessly in front of a fan.



To welcome its arrival, it is only fitting that I take time to update my wardrobe.

Here are some pieces I'd like to purchase and wear this summer:




80%20 Molly Peeptoe
Jelly Sandals
Asos Suede Lace-up Flats
American Apparel Fringe Scoop Back Mini
American Apparel Micro Mesh V Bodysuit
Bleached Jean Jacket Vest
F21 Chiffon Top
F21 Polka Dot Romper


The last one is pure awesomeness!


Friday, June 26, 2009

Drop Snap.

Japanese Street Fashion remains untouched.





As I look at these photos, style emerges in its purest form.
There is something about this fellow's take on a free-spirited, laid-back street-dweller.


Non-conformity is written all over his face.



I could easily see this guy in Berkeley or walking down Haight Street in San Francisco.
From the tye-dye shirt, to the beanie, and the oversized overalls worn as trousers, he seems so . . . authentic. Somehow, everything he is wearing manages to combine with one another in a most cooperative, effortless manner.

Lol seriously, this guy is amazing.




R.I.P. Michael Jackson.
_________________________

Photos via dropsnap.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Blue Bellz.

As summer school continues, this math class of mine does not seem to be getting any easier.

I need a bloody tutor.






(Flannel & Shorts: F21, Two-Tone Tights: U.O., Knee High Boots: Chinese Laundry, Shirt: Hellz Bellz, Big Black Case: My Sister's Tuba!)

p.s. My sister auditioned and got into the UC Berkeley Summer Symphony!



________________


In other news, I have begun learning German!
My sister is helping me, as she herself is already familiar with the language. As of now, I am just trying to grasp the fundamentals of the language. Though not an easy task, I cannot wait until I can at least speak basic German.

Go me!



eins . . . zwei . . . drei . . . vier . . . fünf . . .

Monday, June 22, 2009

Ford Model: Amber Rose.



Notoriously recognized for her widely publicized relationship with Mr. Kanye West, Amber Rose has begun the process of making a name for herself. Just recently, she was picked up and signed to a contract with Ford Models. Modeling alongside the likes of fellow agency models such as Chanel Iman, Rose better be able to carry her weight or expect that contract to cut itself short.

Although we can all conclude that being in the presence of Kanye West and heavily in the public eye for the past couple of months may be (well, is) the reason for her sudden appeal to one of the world's most reputable modeling agencies.

With her unique look, I find myself curious as to what jobs might soon come her way. Perhaps a solo collaboration with Louis Vuitton? Whatever it may in fact be, I hope that all of that sex appeal can be tamed. After all, let's not forget the days when rap videos were her means of public recognition.





Lesson learned: Kanye West will improve your life.



Photos via Emoda.

Saturday, June 20, 2009

Lobster Part II

Today, sneakerheads will be able to get their hands on the Concepts x Nike SB “Blue Lobster” Dunks.


Yes, I know what you’re thinking: There’s something rather familiar about these sneaks. Indeed you are right; the Blue Lobsters are the sequel to last years Original Lobsters that came in red. Except for the yellow laces (which can easily be changed out), I think I might even prefer these to last year’s original version.

With a $250 price tag, each pair of dunks will come sealed in a HAZMAT foam container along with a SB t-shirt, lace lock, and hangtag. If luck is on your side, you might even be able to get a free Concepts x Alien Workshop skate deck.


If you have time, peep the ad for the Blue Lobsters.


Friday, June 19, 2009

Shit Luck.

When feeling down in the dumps, rest assured that there is someone worse off than you.



"Today, I took the bus to work and a sweet old lady got on after me and sat next to me. Halfway to work, she fell asleep and her head was on my shoulder. Trying to be nice, I gently tried to wake her up before my stop came. She wasn't sleeping. I let a dead woman lie on me for 30 minutes. FML"

“Today, I got my drivers license suspended until I am 18 for driving without a license. Where was I driving to? My last day of Drivers Ed. The high school where I take Drivers Ed. classes at is across the street from my house. I gave up 3 years of driving to drive 100 feet. FML”

"Today, I was helping a couple come up with a name for the baby they just had. I suggested "Joshua" thinking that it was an okay name. All sudden, the room got quiet. Turns out I had forgotten that Joshua was the name of their 3 year old son who had died a couple months before. FML"

"Today, I went on a date with a guy for the first time. We went to Starbucks and got coffee. We talked for awhile, and we were joking and having a good time. Suddenly, he put his hand on my stomach and said, "soon, this will be plump with my seed." FML"

"Today, my first girlfriend of over 3 years left me for another guy. She said she's looking for someone who can financially provide for her in the future. The dude owns a T-Mobile kiosk. I'm going to medical school. FML"

"Today, my daughter asked me when was the first time I had sex. After I told her 22 she quickly shouted, "Beat ya!" She's thirteen. FML"




You're not alone.

Visit FMyLife for more shitluck stories.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Indecisiveness.


I have this problem where I cannot decide for the life of me whether I like my hair straight or curly.

Now see, each style has its own positives and negatives.

With straight hair, I appear sophisticated, more "womanly." However, this style requires me to re-straighten my hair nearly every morning because it must be bone straight. This can be quite a strenuous process in addition to being very time consuming.





On the other hand, curly hair is more fun and immediately sets me apart from other people where ever I go. It is in a sense a physical display of my uniqueness. Despite this, with this style I feel as though some people assume I'm some "I'm black and I'm proud" chick, which I find very annoying (though there is nothing wrong with this if it is your personal style).




An aside on my curly hair:

With my hair currently being curly, my mother has been hounding me in regards to this. What's wrong with my hair I ask? It's stylin' (lol), is it not? To this she replied that its current state is "unfitting," "a bloody mess," and that she "does not want me to be seen at work like this."
Hmm, what lovely comments to profess to your daughter. –_–

In all honesty, I don't see what the big fuss is all about. I mean sure, it's a bit wild and untamed (okay, alot) but that's the style I was going for. Frequently, people speak kind words in regards to my hair (awkwardly, a lot of people just stare also). I've yet to hear anyone tell me that they hated it, that is except my own mother!

–––––––––––––––––––


But anywho, with that being said, what shall it be?

Straight and sophisticated, or Curly and wild?

Monday, June 15, 2009

Music Heaven.


Recently, my friend was telling me about the Blackberry App World that came preloaded on his T-Mobile Curve 8900. Curious as to why the bloody thing wasn't on my BB Bold, I immediately downloaded the application. After fooling around with the app for a minute or so, I discovered that Pandora had finally released a version for the Blackberry.

JOY!

I cannot even begin to tell you what joy this brings to my life. My ipod has become nearly pointless, as all the music I can ever imagine has now been compiled onto my phone. Not only does Pandora play all of my favorite songs from bands such as The Whitest Boy Alive and Bloc Party, but this app also manages to play songs that I am highly likely to enjoy (I've just discovered the group Band of Horses via this app!). It's basically my own personal radio station, tuned to my liking, and my liking only.

Ah, what more can one ask for? I'm in music Heaven.


p.s. I start work today!

Sunday, June 14, 2009

Moto Vest.

This shirt is so badass.




I'm not quite sure how this shirt went under my radar, but now that I've discovered it, it's been bumped to the top of my list of things to purchase.

The shirt is designed by Blood is the New Black for Brian Lichtenberg. In case you are unfamiliar, BITNB makes art fashionable by turning simple t-shirts into a canvas for up and coming artists. Brian Lichtenberg (widely known for his shirts like the Brianel South Central Tank) is one of a couple designers who have taken to BITNB to promote their work. With the "Moto Vest," I love the idea of combining the vest design on to a t-shirt. Equally amazing is that the print is on both sides of the shirt, rather than the usual front only. While I'm at it, I might purchase a few other shirts and support the future of art as well as an independent brand.



I am going to radiate extreme badassness once I get my hands on this shirt. Promise.

Friday, June 12, 2009

Aoki Fun.

While browsing The Cobra Snake, I came across these photos.


This is Steve Aoki last month in Seoul, Korea.



Look what Steve does for the people. Just notice how he is welcomed with open arms filled with joy.



This degree of fun cannot be duplicated. Just observe for a moment this fellow's face below. Simply priceless. This photo alone is epic enough to make me wish I was there at that show, soaking in the fun and festivities with everyone else.


Mr. Aoki is living the life.

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Nylon Nikes!



This month marks the release of the sneaker collaboration between Nike Sportswear and Nylon Magazine. The sneaker features funky neon colors (such as green, pink, orange and aqua) that are sure to make a scene. With these shoes being one solid color, they can essentially be worn anything, giving you that extra oomph you’ve been searching for this summer.


(I so love the styling of the last photo; Street, but chic.) 

At $100 a pair, I’m contemplating if I’m willing to cash out on them just yet. But if I wait, they’re sure to be gone, so I advise you get them while they’re hot and still available.

Check out Urban Outfitters for your size.



photos via Nylon Mag.

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

From Wizardry, To Modeling.



While looking at the new ads for Burberry Fall 2009, it took me quite some time to realize that the beautiful female model in these photos was in fact Emma Watson, also known as Hermione Granger from Harry Potter!





With those stunning British looks, she was born to model. I’m glad to see that she is beginning to branch out, marketing herself in different territories. If she can’t find any work after the series of Potter movies are finished, I’m sure she’ll have a home in the modeling industry.

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Blue Days.






(Flannel: F21?, Readers & Tights: Urban Outfitters, Tank Dress: F21, Flats: ASOS, Bag: Marc Jacobs)


So I just recently got a job (my first!) and I'm awaiting my assigned schedule. How long is this process suppose to take? ugh! 
I'm tryna' make some cash money.

Monday, June 8, 2009

"I Just Killed My Boyfriend."

After writing this blog, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to post it or not.

In short, Lady GaGa has begun to bother me.

Don’t get me wrong, there is no hatred spewing from my direction; I love her music and have been a loyal fan since day one, but there is something off about that woman.

Simply put, she is becoming too much.


Now see, there is nothing wrong with being out there in a unique, authentic sense. Lady GaGa however is playing with fire, teetering on the edge of a very, very high cliff.

Take for example the video below.




It is beside me as to why anyone would reply to a question with “Big Dick.” What a stupid thing of her to express publically. What kills me the most is that she was entirely serious; just take a look at her facial expression when she said it. The interviewer, though she played off the awkwardness of the situation reasonably well, you could hear a slight stall in response to Lady GaGa’s rubbish reply. To be open and honest is one thing, but this, though only two words, was unforgivable.

On the contrary, perhaps GaGa is taking advantage of the “sex sells” image. Even if she were, given how serious she is about everything that she says, I think it is safe to say sex is Lady GaGa rather than Lady GaGa being a portrayal of sex (hope that makes sense), as what many other artists are in the music industry.

Regardless, it is still important to preserve your public image!

Well, on a more positive note (mostly), about a week ago Lady GaGa released a new video for her song “Paparazzi.”



Although the soft porn introduction segment extended for far too long, I did enjoy the video. The video alone (save the soft porn) displays artistry at its best. Toward the end when she said, “I just killed my boyfriend,” Gaga confirmed once again that she is a certified BAMF. I especially love how she managed to make being handicapped look stylish.

Lady Gaga is an artist. Lady GaGa is a dancer. Lady GaGa is an entertainer. She does it all, and she does it well. I just wish the wow factor she puts on during a performance did not leak into her everyday life.

Sunday, June 7, 2009

"Mingling."

Today, my mother had me tag along with her, her friend and her friend's daughter. She claims I need to “mingle” more with other Africans (whatever that means). The daughter of my mother’s friend was in search of a dress to wear to her high school graduation (she’s going to UC Santa Barbara in the fall!) After trying on a heap of dresses, she decided on a silk, knee length purple dress. While waiting for her as she tried on the dresses in the fitting room, I did a little shopping myself.

Here’s what I picked up:

Frayed denim shorts.
Black top with fringe detail.
Black pocket skirt.

Black flats with sequin detail.


Seeing that she would be needing heels to compliment her dress, we stopped by a shoe store called DSW. Here, she found a pair of heels to match her dress and I spotted some sandal, woven-type shoes that had been on my list of things to purchase for the longest time. I didn’t think to take a picture at the time, but here’s something similar:
After lusting over the shoes in the mirror for a few minutes, I reluctantly decided not to purchase them because I had already spent a good deal of my mother’s money at the previous store.
No worries, I will most definitely be back for those babies.


Here’s a snippet of what I wore today:


(Shorts: F21, Cardigan: PacSun)