Markaware Coat...

Oh, so, clean...

Japanese brand Markaware release a new coat from its latest string of Spring/Summer 2010 drops. Featuring a classic look with hints of contemporary elements, the coat takes on a tail design with a great slim cut, fine detailing, and versatile color choice. Retailing for ￥71,400 (Approx. $764 USD), it is now available via WISEARK. - Hypebeast (L. Ruano)

via Hypebeast

Wood Shock Watches...

Clever interpretation of one of the toughest watches out there. This version however, may not stand up to the elements like it's original counterparts.

"We've got an acquaintance that has a massive collection of G-Shock watches -- clear plastic, diamond-covered, you name it, he has it. Except for these. Wood Shock Watches ($250) are normal G-Shock watches, featuring hand- and laser-crafted wooden bezels. Available in black or red, they offer all the features you'd expect from a G-Shock, including an auto-calendar function, EL backlight, 12/24-hour formats a multi-functional alarm, stopwatch, and 15 second/month accuracy. Notably missing is the typical water resistance, which we assume went out the window with the oft-unmentioned fire resistance when the normal bezel was replaced with wood. [via]" - Uncrate

via Uncrate

iPad: Mixr Application...

If you're planning on getting an iPad, you can satisfy the inner DJ in you with this latest app and get the wicky wicky action goin' on...

 "As if you really needed yet another reason to pick up an iPad this weekend, along comes Mixr ($TBA). This multi-touch DJ mixing app for the upcoming Jesus tablet offers a virtual dual turntable main interface, allowing for scratching, reverse play, tempo and pitch adjustment, live EQ and effects, the ability to record your mixes, and the ability to cue tracks. Paired with a drool-worthy library and search interface, it's bound to become the new go-to mobile app for amateur and professional DJs alike." - Uncrate

via Uncrate

Kanye West – Street Lights (Unoffcial Video)

Definitely a great interpretation of the song...scenery and location makes me miss Japan even more so. 

"Although there have been several fanmade videos of Kanye West’s track “Street Lights” off 808s & Heartbreak circulating the web during the past year, this featured visual has received official approval. Directors Spike Jonze and Jonathan Bensimon chose Tokyo’s luminous facade as the setting for this intriguing clip. Both directors enact a man strolling through Japan’s capital while being haunted by bizarre imagery. The video comes courtesy of YeezyDude. Enjoy." - Hypebeast (Petar Kujundzic)

via Hypebeast

Angry Woebots x Silent Stage: Panda King...

Friend and artist, Angry Woebots has been a part of the art as well as designer vinyl scene for quite some time. Since the day I had the opportunity to meet him, the talk of having a toy produced has been in the air for awhile. It's all coming to fruition now, his Panda King will plan to release tomorrow. Congrats again, it's been a long time coming, but well worth the wait.

"Panda King, the first original resin figure from Angry Woebots, drops this Monday (3.29) from Silent Stage’s web shop at a random time (before noon PDT).  Limited to 80 pieces, the hand-painted feral beast complete with crown and signed/numbered print will be available for $250 (+ s/h).  These will go fast, stay sharp." - Vinyl Pulse 

via Army of Snipers and Vinyl Pulse

 

NEXUSVII x PORTER - Jane Leather Bag

Start the weekend dapper...

"NEXUSVII has been crafting mature styles since its inception and the label’s attention to quality can be attested by this Jane Leather Bag in collaboration with PORTER. It is a rare for PORTER to craft a piece from pure leather. More traditional than their standard pieces, this bag is a limited edition item that is only produced in 20 units. For those who are familiar with the world of luxury bags, one would probably have noticed the resemblance to the famed and arguably one of the most coveted bags in the world, the Hermes Birkin Bag, named after Jane Birkin (and perhaps the Jane Leather Bag is named after the actress/singer as well). Premium brown leather is used opulently to compliment the classic styling. The deep vintage brown leather is accented by metallic gold details on strap enclosure. Very much like the Birkin, this bag is roomy and spacious and has a gorgeous aged look to it. The only difference right now? These are way more limited in quantity than the Hermes Birkin." - Freshness

via Freshness

Super7: Pocket Mummy Boy Mascot...

Awesome mini versions of the Super7 mascot...

"Spring is here, and with it comes two clear, candy colored Pocket Mummy Boys!

Details soon..." - Super7

via Super7 Blog

NEXUSVII x Porter 2010 Spring/Summer Collection Briefcase

So DAMN classy! Sigh...once again, not being in Japan REALLY limits the collections diversity and growth. "only 20 bags per color", that pretty much means 1) I won't be getting one and 2) the price is most certainly out of my current budget.

"The relationship involving Porter and NEXUSVII has yielded some of the most impressive and noteworthy releases in the past. With their relationship, we’ve seen NEXUSVII forgo any sort of pre-existing Porter model to create their mark through some timeless bag and luggage design. A new piece to showcase is briefcase created between the two parties. The combination cotton canvas and leather construction features a memory foam handle for enhanced comfort as well as a special laptop compartment. Two colors include both black and brown with a limited run of only 20 bags per color."  - Hypebeast

via Hypebeast

OriginalFake x Medicom: Dissected Be@rbricks...

Here's the Mono themed version of the Dissected Be@rbricks that released a little while back, releasing in the classic varied colorway method. Still a great design, just moving along to cover the colors that were released in the original Dissected figures.

"Following up on the preview from a couple of days ago, INVINCIBLE give us a closer look into the latest release between Medicom Toy and KAWS’ OriginalFake. Building off the Dissected Companion character, the collaboration develops into another series of Bearbricks, done up in a monochromatic color scheme. 100%, 400%, and 1000% versions will be made available, dropping through the OriginalFake Tokyo store as well as other select dealers, including INVINCIBLE, on March 27th, 2010." - Hypebeast

via Hypebeast

SAGLIFE: Air Force 1 - Hot Pink, Blue, Black...

The more I see these packs, the more I like them. Feelin' the hot pink for sure, something for the ladies. 

"One of the classic models from SAGLIFE is the Air Force 1. SAGLIFE like to improve on its standard models rather than to keep creating new models unnecessarily. So this range of Air Force 1 have been upgraded with Cordura nylon outer for durability and weatherproofing. The new color to be added in this season is pink colorway that is as striking as it looks in neon pink color contrasted with white detailing and black accents. A good feature for users of SAGLIFE is the inclusion of D ring inside the backpack that lets users attach the Organized Pocket inside this bag too. There is a compartment to store laptop inside as well making this a good backpack for daily use and for traveling. via: Stless" - Freshness

via Freshness

New Balance MT580PU “Fluro Croc”...

Clean with a twist...very nice. Lovin' the croc application, still wondering if it's 3M reflective based on the photos or just really shiny patent-type leather/faux crocskin that the flash caught. Regardless, another great delivery by NB.

"Set to drop is another upcoming MT580 silhouette from New Balance. Having seen what’s in store for later this year with two separate GORE-TEX-based MTG580s, the MT580PU will be available as of next month in April. The sneaker’s design combines a relatively subtle upper with tonal croc hits and a gray suede bumper. Much of the color and pop comes courtesy of the gradient fluorescent midsole. Stay tuned for more details on availability." - Hypebeast

via Hypebeast

TED: Mike Rowe Celebrates Dirty Jobs

Great presentation made by Mike Rowe of Dirty Jobs really explaining the ideas and concepts behind the show and just the idea of "dirty jobs" in general and how it relates to the everyday.

via TED

Hypebeast: Interview with Kiya Babzani of Self Edge

A great informative read on one of the most influential men who brought Japanese denim to North America, Kiya Babzani of Self Edge (San Francisco, CA). 

 

 "Having had a seminal influence in the growth and development of Japanese denim in North America, Kiya Babzani has seen his passion and hobbies turn into his livelihood on more than one occasion. From yo-yo’s to denim, the San Francisco-based Babzani has been a popular contributor through a handful of popular fashion forums, single handily bringing a new sense of education and creating an increasingly large fan base of not only high-quality denim, but top-notch vintage reproduction garments in general. We made the most of this recent opportunity to interview Kiya as we touched on an extensive number of topics, ranging from the changing Japanese/American dynamic and where the future holds for heritage-based fashion. This particular interview is far from a quick read, so shut down your MSN and close your email." - Eugene Kan, Hypebeast 

via Hypebeast

Porter x MUG x Beauty & Youth...

If I were only in Japan...another great Porter collab. 

"Following some impressive inline releases, Minotaur Urban Gear (MUG) and Japanese bag legends Porter team up once again, this time adding top tier retailer Beauty & Youth for an exclusive day pack drop. Constructed of Dupont water-repellent teflon and finished with leather and silver accents, the bag combines high function with high-end design. Japan only, of course.

Take the leap for a detail shot of the Porter x MUG x Beauty & Youth Day Pack." - High Snobiety

via High Snobiety

Manhattan Records x Santastic!

Tokyo Tribe themed shirts from a collab between Santa Inoue and Manhattan Records. 

 "Manhattan Records in Tokyo have been an institution that have been striving to bring in fresh music into Japan for around three decades. They primarily concentrate on Hip Hop, R&B and House music along with related items. It might not be extreme to say that without them the scene would not be what it is today in Tokyo.

To celebrate the 30 years in business Manhattan Records have gotten together with the most famous cartoonist who push the boundaries of street life, Santa Inoue. Inoue was the first of his kind in the world of manga to bring street elements and his Tokyo Tribe series is a hit in Japan and around the world.

For this occasion they have chosen to use the illustration of the main characters Kai, Hashim and Mera. A simple single tone largely printed on the front of the t-shirt in blue which reflect the Manhattan Records’ logo." - Freshness

via Freshness

Porter - Sanforized Denim Wallet...

Been posting a lot of Porter lately, why wasn't this stuff released when I was in Japan? Love their stuff and they continue to produce great designs.

"Porter drops a new Sanforized Denim wallet for its batch of March 2010 releases. The wallet takes on a more fashionable aesthetic as opposed to the usual nylon pieces we’ve been seeing as of late. White canvas interior adds a nice touch while a backside coin pouch makes the wallet even more essential while on the run. Retailing for ￥8,925 (Approx. $99 USD), it is now available for purchase via ARKKABAN" - Hypebeast

 via Hypebeast

Jun Seba...RIP Nujabes

My heart sank quite a bit today, it's been a sad day for me. I was just wondering if Nujabes had any new projects in the pipeline. I've been following Nujabes for a few years now and still love and appreciate all of his music. He is seriously one of the most amazing producers I've ever heard. Jun Seba, may you rest in peace where your musical intuition will now bless all of eternity. I will look forward to hearing your beats when my day comes. Please, if you haven't heard his stuff yet I HIGHLY recommend you take the time to find some of his work and let your ears be spoiled.

"It has been confirmed that Jun Seba, the acclaimed Japanese Hip-Hop producer and DJ who performed under the name Nujabes, died in Japan February 26th, following a Car Accident.

He was the founder of Hydeout Productions, a label from which he released several sought-after underground Hip-Hop recordings, projects that featured American underground artists  like CL Smooth, and Five Deez. He also worked with the popular Neo-Soul artist Dwele."

via Gather

Le Merde: Le Turd...

Le Merde's latest awesome addition to his family of toys...Le Turd.

"New head sculpt on the mini Hollis Price body. Sculpt by Naoya Ikeda of Gargamel. Design by Le Merde. Produced by Super7." - Le Merde

via Le Merde

UCS x Porter Ultimate Leather Wallet

Yet another great collaboration project for Head Porter.

"UCS and PORTER have had a good relationship producing various items and the fans seem to appreciate the wallets as each time these are released, it moves very fast. Just as the last collaboration project, this time UCS and PORTER have gone for leather material for the latest version of Ultimate Leather Wallet.

For this season, the wallets are made in black or natural colors that are constructed of woven leather on the exterior. The wallet is not too large in size and folds out three folds to reveal the buttoned coin pocket and card compartments and horizontal note compartment. Custom PORTER branded snap buttons on the outside secure the wallet close and on the inside is a small UCS logo that is embossed."

via Freshness 

50 Signature Handbags...

We all follow and collect certain things, some people I know are into handbags...

"One of my favorite things about my mom, she’s always cut out comics, pulled magazine articles, cut up newspapers… and now emails me links all the time as well… perhaps she was one of the curators of my world and editors of NOTCOT before it even came to be… one of her recent saves for me, which i couldn’t help sharing, LA Times Magazine has this awesome feature of 50s ~ in this case, 50 Signature Handbags ~ Cachet and carry ~ beautifully illustrated by Jameson Simpson. While i love the way the 50 look on the page (so i had to take a scanner to the mag for you) ~ i love the functionality of the web version ~ it slides along as you hop between numbers… but i’m torn, i do love my visuals more on the ‘overwhelming, all at once, let me choose what i want to see’ side of things… BUT on the web you can see the fun illustrations of our fashion classics up close! Anyhow, browse them all on the next page!" - NOTCOT

via NOTCOT

Childhood Dreams...

The epiphany of a harsh realization that you're growing up and having to move on in life. It eventually hits us all and we leave behind thoughts from a more innocent and naive time in life. Isn't there...wait, shouldn't there be some sort of a middle ground? I still strive to find that point, in some instances I honestly think I have...then, only to find myself understanding that I'm still too "young" in a sense to grasp it all and have "much growing up to do." Reading this entry below from HelloGoodBite just makes me wonder...what were my childhood dreams, did I have any to begin with or was my slate always blank and things just went on in the "temporary present."

 

"It’s funny how soon you forget your childhood dreams. At some point, you realize your vivid imagination just isn’t what it used to be. During this process we call “growing up,” you begin to trade in your ingenuity for realities and adult responsibilities. Funny as I was thinking about my beginnings with food, I realized buried somewhere in the past is a mischievous little girl who dreamed of nothing more than opening her own noodle shop.

What are some of your childhood dreams?" - HelloGoodBite

via HelloGoodBite

New Balance MTG580 GORE-TEX “MA-1″

"New Balance introduce a new model involving their popular MTG580 GORE-TEX style. Debuting a few seasons ago, the full GORE-TEX sneaker presents a suitable option when the conditions are less than ideal as this season’s release takes on an armed forces theme. The upper is a combination of rip-stop nylon and leather with a full GORE-TEX membrane. In addition, the sneaker includes a Velcro patch on the logo to allow you to swap out different colors for the ‘N’ logo whether it be a tonal olive version or an orange version. The sneaker is slated for a July 2010 release." - Hypebeast

via Hypebeast

United Bamboo Spring 2010...

 Love the accented edging...

"Popular contemporary brand united bamboo drop a new wallet design for Spring 2010, coming in a variety of color choices. The wallet features rich leather construction with a unique tonal fringe design, completely made in Portugal. Four different options are now available via the honeyee webstore."

via Hypebeast

Next Stop...The Heart...

I need to catch the red line to...

"The body shows urinary, digestive, arterial and respiratory lines, among many others, with stops at the liver, kidneys and more. The biggest transfer point is, of course, the heart.

Check out the visual at Good."

via Cool Hunting