Thursday, September 30, 2010

Amos James Jarvis “Caleb” Figure

"not a toy." i've been saying that for awhile...


"Illustrator James Jarvis’ Caleb character from the daily ‘Wisdom of Caleb‘ strip makes his way to the vinyl realm with this upcoming figure from Jarvis’ own Amos Toys. Rumor has it that seven variations of this 6-inch high toy will be available come November." - High Snobiety


via High Snobiety

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

New Balance “All in a Days Work”: DJ Mars

DJ Mars, fellow NB enthusiast...



"Following a day in the life of New Balance collector DJ Mars, this short clip entitled “All in a Days Work” allows Mars to talk us through his work, life and day-to-day philosophy. Also featuring De La Soul, Kenny Burns, Mick Boogie and more, keep an eye out for a small array of New Balance running models throughout the video, as worn and collected by DJ Mars himself. Enjoy!" - Hypebeast - Alex Milner

via Hypebeast

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

KAWS “Passing Through” Companion at Harbour City HK

KAWS most recent exhibition in HK...


"Kaws’ giant 5-meter high Companion has finally landed at Harbour City Hong Kong. In addition to the figure, Kaws created a mural that lines a nearby staircase. To commemorate the occassion, three Harbour City exclusive Kaws items – a t-shirt, coffee mug and stickers – will be available starting October 3, 2010 at the Harbour City Museum of Art.
Have a closer look at the figure and mural, alongside a preview of the 3 limited items, after the click." - High Snobiety

via High Snobiety

Monday, September 27, 2010

Mos Def Signs with Kanye West’s G.O.O.D. Music

I've been curious to see what Mos Def's next steps were...


"Kanye’s G.O.O.D. music roster gets deeper with the new additions of Pusha T, Charlie Wilson and CyHi Da Prynce. But in this month’s latest issue of XXL Mag, the “Monsters Inc.” article reveals his long-time compadre Mos Def has also joined aboard the G.O.O.D. Music imprint. It reads the following:
“Just as Kanye returned to his roots to scoop up Common, he recently recruited his buddy Brooklyn rapper/singer/actor Mos Def into the GOOD Music fold. Long regarded as a formidable talent by underground devotees and mainstream fans alike, Mos appeared on “Two Words” (from Kanye’s 2005 The College Dropout) and “Drunk and Hot Girls” (from KW’s 2007 Graduation). Since his 1999 solo debut, Black on Both Sides, Mos has increasingly been pushed — whether by generational choices or self-exile — to the fringes of indie, alternative hip hop. Maybe it will take Kanye to reign him in.”
We’ll keep you updated as more information becomes available, stay tuned!" - Hypetrak

via Hypebeast

Sunday, September 26, 2010

8BITS...

An amazing short film revolving around the battle of old vs new. For all you gamers, remember where it all started...


via notcot

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Vans Era Wingtip CA

Vans with a clean execution referencing a classic...


"It is not the first time that the wingtip pattern has been used on Vans sneakers. However, the latest Era Wingtip CA is available in a wide range of colors that would appeal to many. These are a part of the Fall/Winter 2010 California Collection and uses suede material on the uppers accented with white eyelets and leather shoe laces. The low cut sneaker still possess the classic Vans Off The Wall patch on the heel as well as Vans woven tag on the outer side of each shoe. White vulcanized midsoles are detailed with a single red stripe matching the woven tag. via: FLAUGE" - Freshness

via Freshness

Friday, September 24, 2010

Headcase “Etch A Sketch” iPad Case

Definitely one of the coolest iPad cases I've seen since it's release...


"A fun new iPad case is coming from Headcase. The iconic Etch A Sketch design was the basis of the new case, keeping pretty much all elements on the exterior the same, while making sure that the iPad is also properly protected. You can get it now here.
More looks at the case follow after the jump." - High Snobiety


via High Snobiety

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Not Pop...

Simple, bright, slim and full of "pop"...


"Designed by Schwartz & Sons | Country: United States

'This packaging and logo program was created at Partners and Spade for a juice called Not Pop.'" - Lovely Package


via Lovely Package

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Dunhill Biometric Wallet...

Carbon fiber, biometric finger swipe security, Dunhill quality...what more can you ask for?


"Dunhill have created a unique biometric wallet as a one off collection to ensure the highest level of security for one’s wallet. The wallet is made of lightweight carbon fiber which can only be opened via a biometric swipe of the owner’s finger. The wallet uses high tech materials to provide a nearly indestructible architecture in a weightless form. The wallet can be connected to a mobile phone via Bluetooth to alert the owner if the wallet becomes too distant. The Dunhill Biometric Wallet is available exclusively from Dunhill." - Sybarites

via Sybarites

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Starbucks Mooncake...

Mmm, mooncakes...


"The Mid-Autumn Festival, or also referred to as the Moon Festival is the popular East Asian celebration marking the end of the summer harvest. Such as Thanksgiving celebrated in Western Culture, the Moon Festival is an occasion to give thanks for the bounty of the land. Available this year for the Mid-Autumn Festival, Starbucks is offering their limited edition mooncake sets. There are two sets to choose from: a two-piece flap-lid box set or a four-piece premium set with exclusive Starbucks Chinese tea cups." - Everything Hapa



via Everything Hapa

Monday, September 20, 2010

Grand Taxonomy of Rap Names...

Break it down...

"Charts, charts, charts, oh how the human brain loves charts. Here’s a couple of charts you’re going to love beyond all other charts today, I bet ya. There’s one for beers and one for rappers. Both are created by esteemed poster creation duo Pop Chart Lab – a collaboration between a book editor and a graphic designer. They’ve got two posters at the moment this post is written, and both of them are for super sale. They’ve got an amazing “how to care for” page (included in the gallery below) and a really really sharp looking site!

Both of these charts are not just fun, they’re totally informative. As any dude or lady grows into adulthood and becomes interested in beer (having finally decided it doesn’t just taste like old feet once you get used to it,) they inevitably become interested in the many different kinds. Sure, most people lose interest about 5 minutes after they realize there’s more kinds of beer than their favorite, Summit Extra Pale Ale, but some OTHER folks keep their brain in tune. This chart’s for them.

Then there’s the wildness of rapper names – unquestionably interesting. The excellence of these charts is trumped only by their names: “Grand Taxonomy of Rap Names” and “The Very Many Varieties of Beer.” Head on over to http://popchartlab.com/ to pick both of these posters up. They’ve got a “coming soon” sign on their T Shirts tab, maybe they’ll have some after you’re done taking a closer look at the posters below.

This post is part of the World Famous Design Junkies posters category." - WFDJ

via WFDJ

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Vespa Daniela...

Simply beautiful...

 
"The Vespa is an Italian design icon, and in the hands of Portuguese carpenter Carlos Alberto, it received a one-of-a-kind makeover.

The original Vespa was designed by Piaggio employee Corradino D’Ascanio, an aeronautical engineer with a knack for designing helicopters. In an attempt to translate his know-how to the road, D’Ascanio was commissioned by Ferdinando Innocenti to design a simple and sturdy vehicle. After quarreling with Innocenti about materials, D’Ascanio took his design to Enrico Piaggio and produced the first Vespa scooter in 1946....

...Basing his creation on the silhouette of Vespa model VN1 1951, Alberto glued the first pieces of the wasp with the help of his wife Grace and his daughter Daniela, the bike’s namesake. “Due to the structure of a wasp with open framework, it got me some difficulties, but I was arranging solutions, time and money,” Alberto says. “We were ready in 2004, and had almost everything ready to go, but in September of that year, I had a serious accident where I stopped for 11 months. [I] returned to start the project in mid 2007.” And in 2008, The Vespa Daniela was officially completed and ready to ride.

Maximum speed: 75km / h
Engine: 123.67 cc
Woods used: rosewood, ebony, beech, satin-wood, Brazilian cherry, tacula, panga-panga, sucupira, and sycamore" - We Are Design Bureau

via We Are Design Bureau

Saturday, September 18, 2010

Rain Level Boots By Regina Regis

Making those soon to be rainy days much more interesting...


"As a child, it hampered your outdoor playtime. As an adult, it compounded your commute time to work. Now, there might be a reason to look forward to the next rain storm – the rain level boots by Italian designer Regina Regis. Simple and witty, each of the boots features a clear marking of water level in centimeters. And when the water level reaches the 35cm mark in red, maybe its time to head indoor. Comes in 9 deliciously vibrant colors, all available on Rain Level online store. via: Core77" - Freshness


via Freshness

Friday, September 17, 2010

The Story of Eames Furniture Book

Another book to add to the collection...

 
 "The History of Eames furniture, by Marilyn Neuhart with John Neuhar is packed with rich images and insightful text. This unique book is the benchmark reference on what has to be the most influential and important furniture brand of our time. This book offers the reader insights and fine details on how Charles and Ray Eames worked to create pieces that still top bestseller lists.

The book describes the key role played by the Eames Office’s own development and perfection of production processes for its designs as well as the significance of its relationship with manufacturers. By documenting the creation and spread of these landmark furniture designs, this book also tells the story of how modernism became established in homes and offices throughout the world. Read more here." - Hypebeast - Tim Nolan

via Hypebeast

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Santa Inoue: Art Book...

Will definitely need to hit the local Japanese bookstore to see if they have this in stock. Tokyo Tribes is an amazing manga series and anime...


"Japanese illustrator Santa Inoue releases a retrospective book documenting a collection of work spanning all the way to his beginnings with the heralded manga series Tokyo Tribes. Since then, Inoue has gone on to enter the realm of fashion and toy design as well as general visual work over various mediums. The 296 book is bound in suede and is a definite pick-up for fans of Santa Inoue’s work. It is available now at the SANTASTIC! store in Shibuya, at Amazon.jp and through select retailers." -Hypebeast - Eugene Kan

via Hypebeast

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Penfield 35th Anniversary Outback Leather Down Vest

Penfield with a classic vest design, utilizing some quality materials...


"Penfield continues their 35th Anniversary celebration into Fall/Winter 2010 with a buttery two-tone brown leather vest. Strictly limited edition. Stay with us for a look at more product from the new Penfield collection in the coming weeks." - High Snobiety

via High Snobiety

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Marc Newson x Nike Zvezdochka | Gagosian Shop Exclusive Re-Launch

Missed out on the first release and will likely have a near impossible chance of picking these up the second time around. Definitely one of Nike's most unique pair of kicks...



"In ways, its significances are immeasurable. One, its design was entrusted to someone outside of realm of tradition. Second, the product called for re-tooling of the entire manufacturing process. Finally three, the design spawned a new series in the years to come. The “it” was the Zvezdochka, the 2004 collaborative sneaker by industrial design maven Marc Newson and Nike. Named after the Soviet Cosmonaut Program to see the viability of putting living creatures into orbital space flights, the Zvezdochka was a continuation of Newson’s lifelong interest in mode of transport. Furthermore, the creation itself of this unique footwear, with an inner booty, became an experimental odyssey, for those involved, in both material science and manufacturing process. Extremely limited at the time of its launch, of which Freshness documented back in 2004, New York City’s Gagosian Gallery is set to made them available once again ahead of Newson’s new exhibition next week. In colorways Aegean Blue and Mahogany, exclusive to Gagosian Gallery, an untold amount will be available at the Gagosian Shop on 988 Madison Avenue next Monday, September 13th. On hand will be Marc Newson, the designer himself, for a brief meet and greet session. Certainly an launch event not to be miss.
Gagosian Shop
988 Madison Avenue | Map
New York, NY 10075
TEL #: 212-744-9200
Launch Date: September 13th (Monday) | 6 pm – 8 pm

» 2004 Freshess Feature: Marc Newson x Nike Zvezdochka – Part I

» 2004 Freshess Feature: Marc Newson x Nike Zvezdochka – Part II"- Freshness

via Freshness

Monday, September 13, 2010

Umbrellas, Rain, and Music...

Brings a whole new meaning to the term "singing in the rain..."


"A large number of products are designed keeping in mind the luxury comfort quotient, however, very few promise to create an experience of healing. The Defence by Lulin Ding is an extraordinary umbrella that best exists in human ideation with zero tangibility. Inspired by the song “Electric Tears” by Buckethead, the umbrella which supports an MP3 player, creates an imaginary bubble of personal space in public while the user reflects and reminisces over life experiences. The umbrella starts playing music the moment you step out in the rain. The simple design uses a combination of soulful music and rain’s cleansing aspect to facilitate the rejuvenation of the human soul and its reconnection with nature." -

via The Design Blog

Sunday, September 12, 2010

Kaikai and Kiki: Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Takashi Murakami to join the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade...


"If familiar figures like Kermit the Frog and SpongeBob SquarePants are simply too jejune for you as their larger-than-life, helium-filled representations wind their way toward Herald Square on Thanksgiving morning, the organizers of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade have added two new entrants to the 2010 lineup that they hope will appeal to more erudite tastes. Kaikai and Kiki, two weirdly cute (or is that cutely weird?) characters created by Takashi Murakami, the Japanese pop artist, are being turned into balloons that will mix it up with the traditional cartoon stars and corporate trademarks that will populate the parade’s 84th annual run on Nov. 25, the parade’s producers said on Thursday.

Kaikai, a childlike character in a rabbit costume, and Kiki, a companion with three eyes and sharp fangs, are examples of Mr. Murakami’s signature superflat style, but their balloon likenesses will be about 40 feet long when completed, and about three stories tall when filled with helium. Since the spring, Macy’s parade studio and Mr. Murakami and his Tokyo-based team have traded notes on two-dimensional sketches that were used to create clay models, which were then further refined and colored before the fabrication of the balloons (now underway).

Mr. Murakami will be the fourth contemporary artist in recent years to have his work translated to the Macy’s parade-balloon medium, following Tom Otterness (whose upside-down Humpty Dumpty made its parade debut in 2005), Jeff Koons (whose inflatable bunny followed in 2006) and Keith Haring (whose estate contributed to a figure-with-heart balloon in 2008).

Asked in a telephone interview if Mr. Murakami’s characters might be a tad unsettling for younger parade viewers, Robin Hall, the parade’s executive producer said: “Fangs are very hot right now, if you’ve missed this trend. This is an excellent year for Murakami. And these balloons are adorable. They have a charm to them.”

Mr. Murakami’s sketches for the Kaikai and Kiki balloons, as well as photographs of their clay models and Mr. Murakami’s work on them can be seen below:" - NYT - Dave Itzkoff



via NYT: Artbeat

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Icebergs by Daniel Andersson

The concept is interesting. However, I can't imagine how exciting it would be to live underwater in some random location where there isn't any visible nature or beauty? If this was in tropical waters, it might be more engaging.

 
"These floating concept homes from Daniel Andersson were inspired by the idea of an iceberg. Basically, an iceberg only shows the tip above the water surface and the rest stays hidden below, therefore in these floating summer homes the living space would be primarily located below the surface of the water.
Everything is arranged in a spiral format around a central atrium complete with staircase. The roof also functions as a sun deck. According to Andersson, the cottage’s shape is like a ship hull and will push water away to stay afloat. The private quarters would be located below the surface of the water, complete with aquarium-like windows for light and views of fish friends passing by." - Design Milk - Jamie


via Design Milk

Friday, September 10, 2010

How do colors affect purchases?

Pretty cool article explaining the effects of colors and purchases...


 "For retailers, shopping is the art of persuasion. Though there are many factors that influence how and what consumers buy. However, a great deal is decided by visual cues, the strongest and most persuasive being color. When marketing new products it is crucial to consider that consumers place visual appearance and color above other factors such as sound, smell and texture. To learn more about color psychology and how it influences purchases, see our latest infographic...." - Kissmetrics

via Kissmetrics

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Kyoku Sake Infused Shave Cream

Keep that face silky smooth with a little sake...


"Do you really need another excuse to splash booze on your face? If the answer's yes, check out Kyoku Sake Infused Shave Cream ($35). Apparently, sake "softens and intensely moisturizes the skin" — which would have only served as more incentive to down a bottle of Wakatake Daiginjo — and this mixture also includes silicone micro particles to help your blade glide across your burly, wind-hardened skin." - Uncrate

via Uncrate

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Stay Puft Caffeinated Marshmallows

Wow...I'm surprised it took this long for someone to license the "Stay Puft" name and character for Marshmallows. Caffeinated smores...mmm...


"What can we say? These officially-licensed Stay Puft Caffeinated Marshmallows ($20) feature over 100mg of caffeine a piece, and come in a collectible, rubbery box. Who you gonna call?" - Uncrate

via Uncrate

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Tuned Pale Ale

Diggin' the novelty of the bottle and packaging, but even more curious about the taste of the brew...


" It's little secret that most people enjoy music when they're drinking, but what about making music with their drinks? Tuned Pale Ale ($TBA) is an ingenious microbrew that features a vertical note scale on the edge of the label — just drink down to your desired note, and blow on the top. In addition to having up to six "blow" notes, the backs of the bottles sport ridges for Latin-style percussion, and the box flips upside-down to reveal a tongue drum that produces six different tones, one for each of the bottle slots. It's like Rock Band, only a lot cheaper, and with a much higher alcohol content." - Uncrate


via Uncrate

Monday, September 6, 2010

Miranda Kerr in 3D for Vogue Italia - Steven Meisel

Miranda Kerr is stunning and beautiful. Considering the increasing popularity of 3D once again, this novelty works pretty well...





"As it hit the newsstands in Milan two days ago, the September issue of Vogue Italia had a cover that looked a little different. Why? Because it was shot in Vogue's newest photography frontier, 3D. Enclosed with the Italian issue was a special pair of 3D vision glasses..." - If It's Hip, It's Here


via If It's Hip, It's Here

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Book Marc by Marc Jacobs

Renowned designer Marc Jacobs expands his talents beyond the fashion world...






"When Marc Jacobs bought the beloved Biography Bookstore in New York's West Village, rumors spread faster than Twilight spoilers.  Style.com claimed it would stay a book shop, with the name "Book Marc."  Others in the neighborhood said it would turn into yet another clothing shop for Marc's cooler-than-thou empire.  And then there was the fashion blog that swore it would become an organic bakery.  Um, okay. 

We still don't know what will become of the bookstore - a sign in the window says it won't reopen until "Winter 2010" - but Marc's been slowly rolling out school supplies, also under the name Book Marc.  They include cases, colored pencils, and cool tins covered in a marble notebook pattern.  You can get them at Marc by Marc Jacobs stores around America - and use them to highlight and scribble on your actual books, wherever you happened to buy them.
--FARAN KRENTCIL" - Nylon 

via Nylon

Saturday, September 4, 2010

Cee-lo: "F*$k You" Videos...

An absolute hit from Cee-Lo, both in kinetic typography and music video...




Cee Lo Green "Fuck You"
Uploaded by Push36. - Music videos, artist interviews, concerts and more.

More at ceelogreen.com

Friday, September 3, 2010

Audrey Kawasaki: Migawari Print Release

Audrey is set to release another beautiful print this weekend...



"~hello~
this will be our second and last print sale for this year through the website!
(there will be another print edition for Outre Gallery shows in October, and that will be sold/handled through the gallery.)

so here it is!" - Audrey Kawasaki

via Audrey Kawasaki

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Original Fake x New Era 8P “XX” Cap

Latest apparel release from KAWS...


"This coming weekend Original Fake will release their latest collaboration with New Era. Together they present the 8P “XX” cap, which comes in two grey wool colorways. Via Medicom." - High Snobiety

via High Snobiety

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

West meets East: A Conversation with Kiya and Andrew of Self Edge

Interview with the founder of Self Edge(Kiya) and co-owner of 3sixteen(Andrew) discuss Self Edge and denim...


"Upon arriving to the Self Edge shop in New York City, I met Andrew Chen, the co-owner of 3sixteen and manager of the NY Shop, and began our conversation in the tiny, warm backroom office of the shop. As Andrew deftly identified the details of some of the Sugar Cane and Iron Heart shirts on a rack in the rear of the shop, the elements that make Self Edge so unique began to congeal for me. What at first glance looked strikingly similar to vintage shirts reveal themselves to be new garments crafted with a similar attention to quality that used to be synonymous with American manufacturing. Andrew gently held up and described the materials that are sometimes produced by hand for a small batch of shirts, the thick buttons that are deadstock 60s finds (“found objects,” as Andrew called them), and on some models, the cable stitches which run off the hem and dangle in hand-braided threads. We had only been chatting for a few minutes, and his knowledge of the items on the custom-made gunmetal hangers and true appreciation for the craftsmanship became sort of infectious..." - Freshness - Jesse Carr

via Freshness