Your Rain Boots are Fake

Since 1954 the Hunter company has been producing boots that look like this

Named after the color known as Hunter green these weather and water proof boots were originally designed to look and feel like a proper walking boot. Before the Hunter brand, most rubber boots had been designed to be roomy, so that could be pulled off easily but those designs where extremely uncomfortable. The 1950's design of the Hunter rubber boot, patterned after a hiking boot, revolutionized the industry.

For the last 25+ years most of the material used to make the Hunter boot has been sourced from the same rubber plantation in Ghana Africa. The raw rubber is shipped in huge batches and then processed at the Hunter plant in Dumfries. Incredibly simple in its design, each Hunter boot has no more than 8 pieces. That is, except for the Sovereign Hunter Wellington Boot - the brands flagship boot.

The Wellington Boot is made by Hunter but it's NOT just a Hunter boot. The Wellington, or 'Welly' as it is affectionately called, named after the famed Duke of Wellington, (who defeated Nepolean at Waterloo) is a 'bench' or hand made Hunter boot that is lined in French leather with a sole that can be completely replaced at the Hunter factory.

Over the last 50+ years the Hunter rubber boot design has been copied by just about every fashion brand that sells tall weatherized shoe. As a result of this and the brands global familiarity the term "Welly" has become ubiquitous and synonomous with rain boots.

Now, if you're like me and you've been calling your rain boots 'Welly's', don't feel bad because for a paltry $400 you can own a pair of these leather lined beauties....or, you can do what I do and take pleasure in calling out all of your friends who don't know what you just learned.

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

Annette Unplugged - an impromptu photo shoot

Recently I was at an event showcasing the latest trends in global beauty and fashion and I found my way back stage where I ran into my good friend and celebrity photographer Annette Navarro.

We chatted for a bit and had a few drinks and wha-do-ya-know....she pulled out the camera and a few days later she sent me these...

This was not a planned photo shoot and we are not in a studio. In fact, in the first photo above I'm sitting on a heating vent.

She is so good it's scary.

By the way...they had really good sandwiches back stage.

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

Perforated Leather Jacket by Armani

This perforated leather jacket from Emporio Armani is one of the most amazing jackets I have ever seen.

Several months ago I did a post on the rising popularity of baseball jackets and I continue to see this trend being played out as we gear up for the Spring 2010 season. This time, of course the jacket is in leather and perforated.

Even so, it's the fit and the detailing of the Armani piece that makes the difference. The zipper detail on this jacket is particularly interesting.

Now all you have to do is come up with the $1,375 to pick one up from the Emporio Armani online shop. Needless to say, I'm saving up.

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

Black Dynamite.....Rated Rrrrruuurrah

I don't know whether to laugh

....or cry

....or cry because I'm laughing so hard.

A friend of mine is having a get together to watch a new Blaxplotation film.

It's called Black Dynamite and judging by the trailer it will be the funniest (saddest) movie I have ever seen.

That said, we have to admit that there must have been something about the 70's that won't allow it to die. Unlike any other decade in recent American history, the 70's helped to define our current culture. It represents, like it or not, the US version of the Renaissance.

It was a cultural perfect storm that lead to a creative explosion across music, dance, film, fashion and social-political platforms

A large part of what made the 70's such an amazing decade is that it was so...well LARGE. From the hair to the platform heels to the suit lapels. Everything about the 70's was larger than life. This, I believe, is one of the reasons why it is a moment in our nations history that still influences creative circles today.

From the broad suit lapels and loud prints of Tom Ford to the slim cut dark, unwashed denim jeans that we see just about everywhere. The utter dominance of this decade can't be denied.

By the way..."...but Black Dynamite, I sell drugs in the community" might be the best movie line ever!

If they refuse to make an "Old School 2" then this will have to do.

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

Global Style Watch - Palmer & Sons

In this world of mass produced....everything....it's rare that you find something that is produced by hand - one at a time. Truly bespoke.

Of course you have Saville Row garments and the occasional custom made furniture and, if you can swing the tab, a Rolls Royce, Bentley or Bugatti can be built by hand and to the owners specifications - but who the hell can afford that. The average millionaire is well into his (or her) fifth decade and I don't know about you but I wouldn't mind a little hand made action now, dammit (add expletive for dramatic effect).

Well thank God for Nik and Jack Palmer of Palmer & Sons leather goods. This Vancouver based, father and son team have been making one of a kind leather bags and accessories for just over three years and it is truly beautiful to see.

Starting the brand by making small items for family and friends the brand launched it's first official collection in the Spring of 2009 and haven't looked back since.

From beautifully crafted computer cases, like the one below, to suitcases and travel bags, the Palmer and Sons brand is bringing a sense of old world craftsmanship back to leather goods.

The entire collection is available on line here and I, personally, find the price point to be outstanding for a hand made bag of this quality. In short, the brand makes the kind of leather goods that you buy, keep and pass down to your son. I think Nik and Jack have the right idea.

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

Ford brings the Sun (Spring/Summer 2010)

I know the US has gotten something close to 8 "bagillion" inches of snow in the last two weeks so I figured you might be a little sick of seeing people bundled up (I know I am).

Well, if we can't see the sun at least we can look at clothing for the Spring/Summer season.

And if we're talking about a quick cure for cabin fever there's no better collection to dig us out of the dumbs than Tom Ford's new Spring/Summer 2010 men's collection.

After seeing last seasons collection, filled with bright (pink and blue) pastels I didn't think he would be able to raise the bar much higher. I was wrong.

The electricity of the color palette is still there but the use of prints is what really takes this collection over the top. To be fair, it's not like Mr. Ford is the first to do this. Designers and houses like Dolce & Gabbana, Etro and even lesser known designers like Matthew Williamson have done this before (in fact, D&G did it last season). The difference for me is the silhouette (which is awe inspiring) and the use of breathable fabrics that look very substantive.

The result is a collection that takes the expansive color palette and prints from women's wear and pairs it with the angular tailoring and exquisite fabric choices that define Tom Ford's menswear.

It's so beautifully opulent that you almost look at it and say..."where in the world would I wear this?"

Well, its' a little to chilly to wear it just yet so, for now...like the Sun, we can admire from a distance.

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

Greed...is Good

Gorden Gekko is, in my opinion, one of the best film characters that Oliver Stone has ever created. Not only was the 1987 film Wall Street incredibly entertaining, it was also prophetic in its story telling.

The trailer below is a clear indication that this movie did more than a little foreshadowing...

Now it's 2010 and Gekko is finally out of prison and realizing that greed is not just good...now it's legal. This summer Oliver Stone (and Gekko) are back with Wall Street 2, Money Never Sleeps

Check out the trailer below...

The Wall Street gang got together with famed photographer Annie Leibovitz for some amazing photos.

I fully expect that this will be one of the most incredibly styled movies of the decade (check out some of the suits these guys are wearing in the trailer...epic!)

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

Like....The Best Contest Ever

The good folks at American Apparel are having a contest called...

The Search for the Best Bottom in the World.

Sure...I could tell you about the rules and what the prizes are but really...all anyone cares about are the pictures.

Have I looked at the pictures???

Hell no you bastard!!

I have a girlfriend and she would not appreciate me looking at Mira, from Chicago (who is currently ranked 3rd...but really should be first) or the women from Australia who claims to be wearing a thong in a size 0 (but there is nooooooo way....I mean seriously that is proof that God is a man)...or what about Ash, from London.....

....huh?? What was the question??

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

The Book Book

Question: How many Mac Books are in this picture?

Answer: One....that you can see. Three that you can, because they're hidden inside the brilliance that is Book Book

Designed by a firm called Twelve South the Book Book is a one of a kind hardback leather case designed exclusively for MacBook and MacBook Pro. Available in Classic Black or Vibrant Red, BookBook brings three levels of security to your priced Mac. First, the hardback cover and spine protect you from the rigors of being tossed about, Second, the vintage book cover disguises the MacBook (it really does look like a book from a few feet away - the zipper tabs look like book marks). And third, the stylish case protects you from being like anyone else - the leather on every BookBook is designed to be slightly different...plus...it's a freakin' book computer cover (who has one of those?!?)

Twelve South is a one of a kind design firm with a slightly angry and elitist mantra...

Accessories designed exclusively for Mac. Period.

That said, the firm does amazing work. Designing everything from portable subwoofers (The Bass Jump) to vertically oriented docking stations (The Book Arc), Twelve South is supremely focused on the Mack User. The firm promises to design 12 new products a year and each of them will be Mac Book exclusive. Essentially, if you want to use one of these amazing products you have to go out and buy a Mac.

Here's the link to the Apple Store

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

50 Brands...plus...90% Off...equals...Gilt Man...man!

Gentlemen,

Today is a glorious day! Today is the day that the Gilt Groupe has it's Men's Final Sales.

Over 50 mens's designers with prices up to 90% off. Yeah....that wasn't a typo.

"90%"...as in just a smidge' under FREE. If you're not yet a member just click here and check out a few of the items featured in today's sale below.

Alpha Industries

Herringbone Peacoat
MSRP $231 Gilt $34 (WTF??!!)

A.Testoni

Cap Toe Lace up
MSRP $1215 Gilt $299 (This shoe cost a grand...but not anymore)

Creative Recreation
Cesario Sneaker
MSRP $90 Gilt $22 (Seriously...This is lunch in New York City)

Elie Tahari

Cotton Blazer
MSRP $498 Gilt $89 (Buy this...it's less than a C-Note for God Sakes)

The sale includes brands like Earnest Sewn, Y-3, Costume National and countless others. The "doors" open at 12 (noon) Eastern Standard Time.

I'm gonna be there at 11:59

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

Tom Ford Eye Wear 2010

I think it's pretty tough to be innovative when it comes to men's eye wear.

Especially sunglasses. About everything you can think of has been done with respect to frames and to think someone is ever going to improve on the classic design of the Ray Ban Aviator or Wayfarer is a tall order, to say the least.

Even so, there are a few designers who give it a go from time to time.

Such is the case with Mr. Tom Ford (are you really surprised). His Spring 2010 collection is an evolution from last years incredibly successful collection of aviator style frames with precious metals and ebony wood frames.

The 2010 collection includes continues the trend of unique evolutions to traditional styles, like the criss cross nose bridge on the frames below.

My favorite part of the collection?...The print campaign of course.

By the way gentlemen, That is not lingerie...it's her tan line. God bless Tom Ford...

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

...I'm on a Horse...

Happy Super Bowl Sunday Gentlemen. I promise I'll get to style related topics later today (I want to talk about the merits of body wash vs. bar soap) but for now I'm still in video sharing mode.

So yesterdays video clip was Amazing (but serious)

Today's video clip is Amazing (but funny as hell)

Click this link (the photo below) and prepare to fall on the floor laughing...

Best quote from the commercial...."I'm on a horse". Freakin' Hilarious!

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

Paint a Masterpiece

Watch this series of clips

....not some of it

...not most of it

...watch ALL of it

This was a gift sent to me that I want to share with you.

"...If life is truly every man's work of art, choose not to paint with broad brush strokes but instead explore the details and create a masterpiece..."

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

"Menday" Volume 2

The "Menday" posts that I contribute to on the Style with Benefits blog have been quite the hit. Kudos to Rebecca for what is shaping up to be a fantastic idea.

Last week we talked Jeggings (i.e. Jean Leggings)...

Here's my response

Check out what the rest of the guys thought.

Women in tight pants??....Yeah, I'm a fan.

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

Casual Friday - "A Cougar is NOT a Retirement Plan"

The Super Bowl is this weekend and I'm looking forward to seeing the New Orleans Saints go "toe to toe" with Mr. Manning and the Indianapolis Colts.

That said, like most of people (52% if you believe the recent poll from MSN) I fully expect to enjoy the commercials just as much or more than the game.

E-Trade is one of the reasons why. Here are a few that you won't see during the "Big Game"

I have two predictions

1. If Reggie Bush gets over 100 yard and gets in the end zone twice the Saints win the game. If this doesn't happen they've got no chance.

2. People will be talking about this freakin' E-Trade baby on Monday morning.

Don't bet against me....you'll lose.

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte

Kanye West on The Sartorialist

Speaking of blogs....

If you follow fashion blogging at all then you've no doubt heard of the Sartorialist. This blog has a huge following and its owner, photographer Scott Schuman (pictured below) is a world renowned blogger and published photographer for the likes of GQ, Vogue and virtually every fashion house you have ever heard of.

About a week ago he posted this photo........

No words. Just a title that said At Louis Vuitton....Kanye West, Paris

Typically, posts on this blog get about 150 to 200 comments. To date, Mr. West has well over 500 and most of them are really...really mean spirited.

I don't know how you feel about Kanye West. Personally, I think he's a genius who uses a superstar persona as a kind of defense mechanism. The man (and I've met him) appears cocky because he has loads of self doubt. He's a bit of a prick because....well, honestly you'd probably be a bit of a prick too if you had endless cash and millions of fans who worshiped you and the people who told you "No" 5 years ago are now saying "Please".

More than that, If I had to guess, I would say that Kanye is a guy who, like Andy Warhol, believes that you "don't pay any attention to what they write about you. Just measure it in inches."

Make it an Outstanding Day!

- Kenyatte