Future Classic by Sherif Manganas

I've moved to Wordpress

2010-05-11T00:23:00.000-07:00

http://sherifx.wordpress.com

Check it out peeps! NEW NEW NEW!

Amazing!

2009-03-10T22:16:00.000-07:00

LA Food Picks

2009-02-06T10:23:00.000-08:00

This is a short list of some of my favorite places to eat in LA/Pasadena area that I forwarded to the Entreprenurial Spirit class (taught by Errol Gerson) which I TA for. Hope you guys enjoy!

Bua Na Thai - the only thai place I go to in pasadena. I get the crispy chicken with basil leafs. the people there are great and treat you well and the food is authentic

696 E Colorado Blvd
Pasadena CA 91101
United States

Cliftons Cafeteria - great for oldschool cafeteria style eating in a very very odd and unique setting. this isn't a foodie place, but if you grew up kinda poor as a kid (I did) then this'll bring back memories. The corn bread and the honey butter are amazing.

648 S Broadway
Los Angeles CA 90014
United States

Colori Kitchen - decent downtown italian joint. good ambiance, pretty hip crowd, decent risotto and no corkage fee (from what I remember). good but not great but worth the stop if you're in the area and you don't wanna hit little tokyo

429 W 8th St
Los Angeles CA
United States

Fatty's & Co - one of my top 5 in LA. its 100% vegan if I'm not mistaken but you'd never know. a bit on the expensive side for most students but the food is stunning and the presentation is wonderful and the people are kind... the setting is not pretentious or arrogant. One of my absolute favorites

5110 Vincent Ave
Los Angeles CA 90041
United States

Fox's Breakfast - just as the name says. I love going to this spot and getting one of their breakfast combos. a touch on the expensive side, but I always feel energized after I leave.

2352 Lake Ave
Altadena CA
United States

French Market Cafe - nice quaint spot off Abbot Kinney in venice owned and run but actual french people, not people who visited once and wanted to prolong their exposure. Pretty good if you're in the area and want to get away from the Santa Monica and Venice boardwalk madness

2321 Abbot Kinney Blvd
Venice CA
United States

Hakata Ramen Shinsengumi - the only ramen place I like. period.
http://www.shinsengumiusa.com/

Kabuki Sushi Corp. - this isn't the chain of kabuki crap sushi you usually see. this place existed before them and has been serving some of the best sushi I've consistently had. Worth the trip, even non-sushi eaters will convert.

9701 Reseda Boulevard
Northridge Ca 91325
USA

Mamma's Brick Oven - pretty damn good local pizza, better than most, but not the best I've had (I've had better in SF & Chicago)

710 Fair Oaks Ave
South Pasadena CA
United States

Marouch - simply the best arabic I've had in LA. I'm 1/2 egyptian and my mom is the best cook I've experienced for arabic food (in this I'm not biased, tons of people try to pass off crap as good) and this place is the closest I've ever experienced to comparing to her. One of my LA favorites

4905 Santa Monica Blvd
Los Angeles CA 90029
USA

Mike & Anne's - my current favorite in all of Los Angeles. I go here as much as my bank account will allow. They have great food, servers and ambiance. I've been there for every meal time and I have the following suggestions. In the morning have the lemonade, its has a mint or something added to it that is simply amazing. For lunch and dinner, the chicken wrapped in bacon or the four mushroom risotto are my current favorites but I've sampled others and the rest of the food is just as good. For appetizers get the mac&cheese and you'll be amazed and also get the french fries with the garlic aioli dipping sauce. Top 5 no doubt

1040 Mission St
South Pasadena CA
United States

Nicole Gourmet - the best french grocery and breakfast/lunch spot I've found in LA. Unpretentious, delicious and delicious... yes I said that twice. Great little romantic corner spot where you can find everything french. I suggest you stop by. I try and go here once every two weeks without fail. Give the Croque Monsieur a try. I also suggest the Lorina sparkling Pink Lemonade (a personal addiction).

921 Meridian Ave # B
South Pasadena CA
United States

Porta Via - this is the italian equivalent to the above. their outdoor eating/seating area is one of my favorite places in pasadena. Their selection of products is out of this world and their food is even more amazing. If you don't mind the impending heart attack, give their 'Italian BLT' a try. Its grilled pancetta with lettuce & tomato with basil aioli on some sort of delicious bread.... its absolutely nuts and an engrossing sandwich experience. Try it with the sparkling pomegranate juice (using the acidity to cut through the heaviness of the sandwich) and you will have an amazing lunch!

1 W California Blvd
Pasadena CA
United States

Shik Do Rak - simply a great Korean BBQ spot that I love going to. The sauces, the meat the old man who is sometimes there to great you at the door makes this intimate spot a place where I with some reservation admit I've been to three times one week.

2501 W Olympic Blvd
Los Angeles CA 90006
United States

Zona Rosa - a great little coffee spot. I love taking dates here, grabbing a big cup of their mexican hot chocolate and going for a walk around CalTech's campus in the evening/night. Great heat, sweetness balanced with a delicious bitterness that I haven't found anywhere else.

15 S El Molino Ave
Pasadena CA 91101
United States

Thats all for now, hope you guys enjoy!
Sherif

Today, The Arboretum

2009-01-28T10:54:00.001-08:00

KILLSPENCER EVENT COMING UP!

2009-01-21T20:21:00.001-08:00

Hey Sherif,

My very first product run of 36 bags is finally done! I worked really hard to create high-end functional products for our everyday use that are as responsible as they are conceptual. KILLSPENCER MANUFACTURES PREMIUM ARTIFACTS that are meticulously HAND CRAFTED IN LOS ANGELES, using re-purposed military truck tarps, Korean war era coated cotton canvases that have been preserved for almost 60 years, and new performance materials, all equipped with waterproof zippers, military spec buckles and hardware, and the original KILLSPENCER "retractable wall mount system."

The very first "Open House" for the KILLSPENCER brand is this Saturday January 24, from 10am-2pm. Every detail has been considered and perfected. I cannot wait for you to see them in person! (See Attachment!) The "Open House" is an opportunity for my family and friends to exclusively purchase products on a first come first serve basis. These products will not be available to the public until late February. This event is intended for serious buyers only. I hope you can make it out. Call me if you have any questions.

800 South Euclid
Pasadena Ca
91106

info@killspencer.com

Pricing Guide: http://www.nublabs.org/killspencer/paypal/

Did I tell you, I climbed a Gehry?

2009-01-21T15:24:00.001-08:00

So not entirely true - I did run around a lot though, but only because a security guard told me I shouldn't be there. I decided one night, one of the last before the new term started, that I wanted to sneak around the Gehry building. I have to admit I've had a long time love-affair with this particular building. I feel so at home there, it is uncanny. It was a great couple of hours of solitude, urban exploration and appreciation... all on the foggy backdrop of downtown LA. I couldn't have asked for more.

KILLSPENCER HAS LANDED

2009-01-19T09:57:00.000-08:00

I gotta say, I'm totally happy with this amazing product. This past Saturday I had the pleasure of meeting Spencer & his wonderful girlfriend. Two amazing people with a breadth of knowledge and insight in to a number of subjects; I look forward to chatting with them again.

That said this bag is gorgeous. I look to purchase products that I believe will stand the test of time – this undoubtably will. The heavy grade military-spec materials are impressive, gorgeous and pleasurable to the touch. I can't wait to see what Spencer will do next as this is an amazing start. More product shots and information will come in the future.

Sherif

Dying of anticipation!

2009-01-12T21:01:00.000-08:00

The anticipation is killiing me. I'm dying to get my hands on KILLSPENCER Premium Artifacts. These items were designed by Spencer Nikosey, a recent and very talented Art Center graduate – I saw his work at this last terms Grad Show and his work just pulled me from across the room. The craftsmanship and the execution are unlike anything I've ever seen... each day I look forward to a little email from him in my inbox saying I can pick up one of his wonderful pieces. Keep your eyes open!

Sherif

Debonair Magazine: The Sex Moves Women Crave

2008-11-05T13:50:00.000-08:00

We went to the streets of New York to interview young, sexy women about what they want from their men in bed. After many slaps (and a few phone numbers) we compiled the best nine tips to help our fellow mankind in the sack. Just remember guys, with great knowledge comes great responsibility.

A Little Kinky

Think all women want it nice and slow? Think again. These women want it hot and heavy on the kitchen table, the bedroom floor, or just about anywhere else you can send them over the edge. They like moves that show a guy's strong, masculine side, just look at the advice below:

Kendra, Marketing Manager in Soho, 24 years old - "I love it when a guy tosses me around a little. I mean, nothing crazy, but it's a huge turn-on to know he's strong and likes being the boss."

Nicci, Fashion Designer in Hell's Kitchen, 29 years old - "I'm a sucker for biting. Oh, and sucking is good too! (Laughs) A gentle bite me on the neck and I'm yours. I like it when a guy rolls with my reactions too, the anticipation makes my heart race when he makes his way to my ears, nipples, toes and anything else he finds appetizing!"

Kim, Investment Banker in the Financial District, 32 years old - "Think you're busy? I eat sissy analysts for lunch and I don't have time for your trial and error in bed. Want to know how to please me? Here it is - the difference between a boy and a man is a man knows how to make me come. If you want this to last more than tonight I orgasm first, then you - or together. Got it?"

The Pressure Cooker

New York women have their schedules packed, so when they finally have time for some all night sex, they want the ecstasy to last for hours. Don't move right in to the main event, tease them with foreplay and build the anticipation to the boiling point.

Julia, Freelance Graphic Designer in Greenwich Village, 30 years old - "That spot right between my middle and lower back, that's the jackpot. If you can work that, you're set. Lick me there, kiss me there or just move your whole body against it. And, you know, you're not too far away from my butt, so if you want to sneak a spank or two in there, go for it, just don't get distracted from the area I want you to focus on."

Sarah, Sales Assistant in Midtown, 23 years old - The back of my neck is magical. I like it massaged, kissed, and licked. Work the whole combination from my neck, down my shoulders and then my whole back. Tiny gentle kisses, (laughs) I'm giving myself goosebumps just thinking about it! I love a guy that can give me the chills with his kiss and his reaction to seeing me squirm and smile keeps things fun."

Grace, Graduate Student on the Upper West Side, 26 years old - "I don't need anything fancy from a guy - I just want a him to tease me a bit. Touch me, caress my body and slowly move to the sensitive points. Rub my legs, my stomach, kiss my legs up and down and plenty of attention to my inner thighs. I said slowly! I want a guy to spend time with my body, it makes me feel important - but after 30 minutes, if you're doing it right at least, I'll be more than ready to take it to the next step."

Back To Basics

Apparently men, we're not faring so well on some of the fundamentals - if a decade of mistakes from junior high to college graduation didn't teach you how to kiss or hold a girl, well, none of the tips above are going to save you. We didn't expect how much of a firestarter some of the straightforward moves can be - maybe there's not a big secret to great sex after all!
AJ, Executive Assistant in Chelsea, 29 years old - "I love it when a guy uses his hands softly. Squeezing, grabbing, touching - it's all magnified 500 times if it's done softly and slowly. Turn off the lights, shut your mouth, and let your hands tell me everything you want."
Adina, Med Student in the East Village, 27 years old - "Great sex is about more than going in and out. Ever heard of um, a little foreplay? Chase me around, undress me slowly, find a creative use for your hands and stop repeating your old moves! I want to be surprised so get over your nervousness and don't afraid to be silly with me."

Jamie, Lawyer in Midtown, 32 years old - "Kissing is key. If he can't kiss, he probably can't do much else. Kiss all over my face, suck on my tongue, just keep it playful - when I guy spends alot of time kissing me I know he's completely into me, and that's the starting point for my inner-animal."

Debonair Magazine

Debonair Magazine: Female Sex Fantasies Exposed

2008-11-05T13:46:00.000-08:00

Female Sex Fantasies Exposed: Debonair posted this up, a great insight as to what is percolating under the surface ;)

Posted: Wednesday, October 08, 2008
We've all been there – a gorgeous, scantilly-clad french maid walks into your hotel room and is immediately smitten. She pushes you to the bed and orders you to rip off her clothes. In your dreams, right? Ours too, but we're told it doesn't have to be that way.

In fact, after a long conversation with the girls on the Debonair Sex Panel, we're practically convinced that girls have a more warped imagination than we do. So what exactly are women thinking of when you see them staring off into the distance at a café, stealing a glipse of you walking down the street?

Dirty Talk

Sarah, Sales Assistant in Midtown, 23 years old - "Dirty talk is best as a whisper in public – like if we're shopping or in a restaurant sometimes I'll lean in and say what I'm going to do to him when we get home or what I want him to do to me. Seeing how he reacts is fun, but what I really love is building up the anticipation all day. When we get home we practically attack each other we both want it so bad."

Emily, Store Manager in the East Village, 29 years old - "Getting really explicit and erotic is such a release – when you're in the middle of all that physical stimulation, talking dirty sets off fireworks in my head and gets me totally immersed in the moment."

Bondage

Laura, Paralegal in Midtown, 26 years old - "Being the 'good girl' gets old – sometimes I just want to leave that part of my personality on the floor and let my inner animal out. When he's clawing at me, spanking me, pulling my hair, it just unleashes a different kind of passion between us."

Kim, Graduate Student in Tribeca, 25 years old - "Most guys I've been with expect to be in control when we hit the sack, but that's just not how I like it. There's nothing I like more than to tie him up, tease him, and dominate the night. He's definitely going to get what he wants, but I get the added rush of being in power – is this how men feel all the time? I could get used to it!"

Having a Threesome

Julie, Stage Actress in Hell's Kitchen, 28 years old - "I've had one threesome in my life, where I was the other girl, and it was the most exciting thing I've ever done. I mean, it's such a different kind of sex – limbs everwhere, kissing, groping, having permission to be sexual with another women – it was just primal. I'm not sure I'd do it again because of the fallout afterwards, but that doesn't mean thinking about it doesn't get my juices going."

Angela, Dancer in Greenwich Village, 26 years old - "Oh, threesomes, definitely, and the fact that my boyfriend has a whole mess of sexy, gorgeous friends just makes me think about it more! It's not really about just one way either; sometimes I like the idea of being overwhelmed and filled up, you know, a rough, used experience, but other times it's more about being pampered and lavished over – it's not just guys that like the idea of having more than one person to please them."

Videotape

Kayla, Set Designer in Times Square, 26 years old - "My boyfriend and I have made a few tapes, mostly on vacation actually, and we watch them to get in the mood, and keep it on while we have sex to keep things intense. When you make a tape you're always a bit more theatrical and in the mood to do stuff outside your comfort zone, so I like being able to relive that part of it."

Adrianne, Marketing Manager in Soho, 29 years old - "I used to be pretty apprehesive about being taped, but as long as I get to keep the tape, I'm fine. Just having a camera running while you do it makes things more exciting because it feels like a performance, like there's someone watching you off in another room. [Laughs] When I end up as that person I love seeing what I can do to my partner and for the lonely nights it's so much better than what's on the internet. Know what I mean?"

Role-playing

Jane, Bartender in the East Village, 28 years old - "I've done all kinds of stuff, from teachers and school girls to the requisite french maid and nurse. I know it sounds silly to get into a costume for sex, but it's not just a costume, you know, it's getting to be a whole other person and imagine yourself in a spontaneous encounter. I'd never just jump a guy on the street, but I can imagine I would by playing dress up. [Laughs] And a side benefit is I guess I never have to worry about Halloween!"

AJ, Executive Assistant in Chelsea, 29 years old - "With role-playing you're just re-enacting bad porn films, but you know what? Bad porn films are kinda hot - at least I think so. I actually feel pretty silly doing it, but anything that makes you laugh during sex is usually a good thing. It's easy to get stuck in a rut with that part of the relationship, so being able to do something goofy while you're naked can do wonders to strengthen a relationship."

Debonair Magazine: Visual Guide to Buying Lingerie

2008-11-05T13:34:00.000-08:00

Debonair Magazine online has a great visual guide to buying lingerie for your special somebody. For the whole scoop click here.

What they have in store:

For the Girl With: A Large Bum

For the girl with a voluptuous backside, Catriona recommends a thong with some width to the back. This type of thong minimizes size by covering about 1/3 of her bum, making it appear smaller. The cut is still very sexy though, as it shows ample cheek and elongates the line of the leg.

For the Girl That's: Pear Shaped

For the pear shaped girl, Catriona recommends a chemise with sheer lace cups emphasizing the breasts. The solid bottom portion of the chemise should be solid with a shape that skims the waist and becomes an A-line to hide larger hips, thighs, and bum.

For more, check it out and click the link above!

Romancing the Stone: Jaeger LeCoultre Gyrotourbillon '2'

2008-10-31T12:15:00.000-07:00

In my opinion, the most gorgeous, most amazing and highest craft in modern watches, Jaeger LeCoultre has released their new Gyrotourbillon in their classic tourneau style Reverso. An amazing feat of haute-horology! I'm in love and now taking donations towards purchasing one of these limited edition beauties!

How to get chicks by Mr. ChiCity

2008-10-30T13:54:00.001-07:00

Modern Slavery: Dubai

2008-10-30T13:44:00.000-07:00

The Guardian has a great article on the current state of Dubai's development. Those whom have been watching it realize that there are quite a few more than questionable civil rights violations at play here – but it is ignored because of the wealth and the power wielded in this city. Please take the time and read: 'We need slaves to build monuments'

Treehugger: Making Stuff Cool, Making Stuff Uncool: Why Cultural Change is Key

2008-10-30T13:38:00.000-07:00

Graham Hill posted this insight on to TreeHugger and in case you've missed it I've presented it here. I share a lot of the same views; convincing people that what they are doing is uncool and that the change is cool (and all the implications those words carry) is absolutely necessary to creating the greater change necessary to save this planet, our humanity and so forth.

The Big Cheese behind TreeHugger, Graham Hill, hit the Arctic as part of Cape Farewell's 2008 Disko Bay expedition to witness the direct environmental effects of climate change. In a science research boat, he traveled alongside over 40 artists, scientists and rock stars.

Humans are driven by incentives. For the most part, we do things because there's something in it for us. This may be money, food, entertainment or even the feeling of having helped someone. In terms of the incentives that drive people to go green, some of the main ones that we hear about are ones such as saving money, maintaining your health and improving national security.

There's one incentive that doesn't get talked about as much but that I believe is very powerful...

It's the positive and negative pressures that come from social norms. How cool and uncool you think your behaviors will appear to people is generally a huge influence on how you behave.

An un-cool outfit, an odd smell emanating from you or a small stutter are things we do our best to avoid. Public speaking? Often one of the things people are most scared of. Why? Because there's the possibility of making a fool of yourself. Most of us care a great deal about what other people think of us.

In the 70s, it was common to see people throwing garbage out of their car windows while driving down the highway. Now it's unheard of. How did we get to this point? Public service announcements, fines and a public coming to terms with what it knew all along...littering was just plain wrong. As a species, we're evolving...women's rights, civil rights, animal rights...we're slowly evolving.

All this to say that making stuff cool and uncool is critical in combating climate change. Littering is no longer cool. Hummers and SUVs in the city decidedly less so. Perhaps McMansions are next? Our social norms are evolving and the quicker we can help them do so, the better.

The expedition I am on (Cape Farewell 2008) has as its main goal to help accelerate this cultural change. Visual artists, photographers, writers and musicians' work helps to determine what we think is cool and un-cool. David and his team are helping to get these artists to feel/know climate change on an intimate level such that they ideally will incorporate it into their work and as such help us shift as a culture.

It's longer term and it's a little more abstract and it's for these reasons that I think it's important. We need all hands on deck. We need different people attacking this problem from different angles, on different time-frames, for different audiences.

Team Cape Farewell...onwards and upwards!

Treehugger

"The Rules" by GQ

2008-10-25T03:33:00.000-07:00

1. Buy a two-button suit.
It will give you a slimmer, more streamlined look, and it will better show off your shirt and tie. The days of three-button dominance are over.

2. Chances are, you’re wearing your suit a size too large.
Its shoulders should hug your shoulders (not jut out past them). And ask your tailor to size the sleeves so they stop at the hinge of your wrist (not halfway down your thumb) and to size the pants so they break once (not gather in a baggy mess at your heels).

3. Put toe taps on your leather-soled dress shoes.
They will significantly increase the shoes’ life span.

4. Matching wood hangers will transform your closet into one of the sleekest, cleanest spaces in your house.
Wire hangers belong in the trash.

5. If you’re going to own one sweater, make it a charcoal gray v-neck.
It goes perfectly with a dark suit in fall or winter and with jeans or cords in spring.

6. A black J.M. Weston belt works with khakis, jeans, suits, everything.
It is the one belt every man should own.

7. A dark, slim tie will instantly give any ensemble a younger, cooler feel.
And unlike wider ties, it looks as good with a jean jacket as with a suit jacket.

8. Your raincoat should be as trim and tailored as your suits.
Buy a mackintosh by Jack Spade and you’ll look sharp in even the most inclement weather.

9. Invest in a classic one- or two-button tuxedo with peak or notch lapels.
It makes no sense (stylistically or fiscally) to rent a tuxedo each time you attend a black-tie event.

10. Don’t waste money on a fancy lint remover.
Buy a tape roller instead at your local drugstore—it works better.

11. Learn how to tie a bow tie.
At the end of a wedding, you want to be the guy with an untied bow tie hanging around his collar, not a clip-on stuffed in his pocket.

12.Get a long, dark scarf and don’t wait till the temperature plunges below zero to wear it.
Skip the parka and pair it with a suit or a sport coat and jeans.

13. Learn how to form a dimple in your tie.
It’s the little things that make a gentleman.

14. Cordovan dress shoes are indispensable.
Made from horsehide, they conform to your foot’s shape and last for ages.

15. If you want your suits to survive, dry-clean them infrequently.
Instead, have them steam-pressed when they need shaping up.

16. Puffy or multipeaked pocket squares are dorky.
Yours should be, well, square—like Sean Connery’s.

17. Always stow a dress shirt at the office.
You never know when you’re going to sweat through a shirt in the dead of summer or spend the night out and not make it home in time to change.

18. Keep your dopp kit stocked and ready to go—ibuprofen, toothbrush, condoms, etc.

19. Tell your dry cleaner you want your dress shirts cleaned without starch and pressed by hand.
It’s pricier but worth it—they’ll look crisper and last longer.

20. The gray crew-neck sweatshirt is an American classic that’s more versatile than ever.
You can wear it on its own, underneath a jean jacket, or even with a suit and sneakers.

21. Invest in a great shoulder bag.
If you carry a cheap one with a nice suit, it kills your outfit.

22. When you wear your trim two-button suit, leave the belt in the closet – you don’t need one.
Going beltless lends the suit a clean, confident look.

23. Wear cuff links without a tie. It will give you a rakish yet elegant flair.

24. When wearing sunglasses with a suit or sport coat, wire-rimmed aviators are your most refined and understated option.
Leave those athletic wraparound shades for beach-volleyball players and center fielders.

25. Sambas are the one sneaker that always goes well with a suit.
But be sure to dress down the suit—nix the tie and go for a T-shirt, an open-collared oxford, or even a layered track jacket.

Future Classic is back with the GQ 10 Commandments of Men's Style!

2008-10-24T16:26:00.000-07:00

1. Honor thy tailor

Even the best suits need altering. Pants need to be shortened, jackets need to be brought in, sleeves need to be narrowed (yes, you can ask your tailor to slim down your sleeves), and buttons need to be realigned with buttonholes (most guys’ shoulders aren’t entirely even, meaning your jacket often sits a bit askew). You should always buy your correct size, but you then need to have a tailor customize it to your body. It’s the difference between being appropriately dressed and being stylishly dressed.

2. Thou shalt wear sneakers made for a man
It’s fine to own crosstrainers and running shoes and hightops. But save them for the gym. When you’re on the street, keep your sneakers simple and classic. Go for ones like Stan Smiths, Jack Purcells, and Sambas. They work with everything, including suits.

3. Thou shalt invest in the right timepiece
Buy a high-quality stainless-steel watch. It looks as right with jeans as it does with your best blazer.

4. Thou shalt match your socks with your suit
When choosing socks, the basic rule is to consider the suit instead of the shoe—in other words, if you’re wearing a navy suit with black shoes, reach for navy socks. And when wearing a light suit, make sure the socks are darker than the suit but a shade or so lighter than the shoes.

5. Thou shalt not wear a tie that is too slim
Unless you’re a hard-core fashion guy who favors a superskinny tie, stick with one that measures about three inches at its widest point. It will be narrower than traditional ties, but not by too much. Tie one on and you’ll look modern and sophisticated.

6. Thou shalt put your wallet on a diet
Your wallet should not be as fat as a burrito. In fact, you should get rid of your wallet and, while you’re at it, trash all the receipts, video cards, and other unnecessary crap that’s stuffed in it. Buy an elegant, slim leather credit card holder and stock it with your essential cards. Then, fold your cash in a money clip. All that other nonsense can go in your desk drawer. You don’t need it.

7. Thou shalt wear the right tie with the right tux
Two points to remember: (1) A bow tie goes best with a peak-lapel tuxedo, while a straight tie works better with a notch lapel. (2) Regardless of what kind of tie you’re wearing, make sure the fabric matches the lapel. If your lapel is grosgrain, your tie should be grosgrain. If your lapel is satin, your tie should be satin. And one more thing: Your tie (no matter its shape) should be black. Colored ties are for the prom.

8. Thou shalt wear brown shoes—with nearly everything
Black dress shoes are easy—they’re understated and tasteful. Brown dress shoes up the style factor. People notice them. They go best with gray, khaki, or navy. Dark brown shoes are easier to pull off than light brown ones.

9. Thou shalt learn when to cuff ‘em
If you’re wearing a trim, modern suit with flat-front pants—the kind often shown in this magazine—you should not cuff your pants. However, if you’re a guy who likes a classic suit with a single pleat, go for a cuff—but not more than one and a half inches deep.

10. Remember thy undershirt
This one’s tricky. If you’re wearing a conventional white broadcloth dress shirt (which means it’s fairly see-through), you have two options: Skip the undershirt and you’ll look clean and stylish. Or, if you’re a hairy guy who perspires a lot and you feel safer in an undershirt, wear a crewneck. The lines of a V-neck or tank top will be visible beneath your shirt and tie and you’ll look cheesy. If you prefer a V-neck or tank top, you might consider other dress shirts. Go for ones with checks or stripes, which make an undershirt less visible. Or opt for hardier fabrics, like an oxford cloth, which make undershirts all but invisible.

Image courtesy of http://thesartorialist.blogspot.com/

List courtesy of GQ - http://men.style.com/gq

The 80's were amazing weren't they?

2008-09-17T09:39:00.001-07:00

Out of town people!

2008-09-09T21:40:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay these days folks but I've got ALOT TO UPDATE YOU ON!!!

For now I'm on the road and until Google gets their shit together and creates a mobile Blogger posting APP for the iPhone I'll have to bootleg it from various random wi-fi hotspots.

I'm sorry to say I don't have many pix to share but thats b/c I've been rediscovering my old Canonet QL17 Canon Rangefinder (think Japanese Leica wannabe) and shooting only B/W. When I get those developed (by some AC photo student) I'll share! For now, here are some random pix from the road I've been taking with the iPhone (some purchases, rapid transit and others):

I didn't purchase this jacket, but I will have it by winter!

IDEA 2008 Award Winners

2008-07-30T23:32:00.001-07:00

The Eton Field Radios (FRs) series comprises two consumer field radios for use outdoors and in the home. They are particularly suited for emergency use, when access to information, communication and product reliability are critical. The FRs feature NOAA weather channels, AM/FM and worldwide multiband channels. They also include a two-way walkie talkie and a cell phone charger so one can stay in touch even when the power is out. The FRs also include a flashlight, siren and an SOS light beacon. Each is powered by hand-crank dynamos and solar panels.

The O2 Cocoon features simple yet extremely sophisticated versions of the common mobile phone. In creating the O2 Cocoon, a completely new design identity was constructed: a seamless clamshell design that is clean and tactile on the outside and technologically advanced on the inside. The driving force behind the design was the belief that the world was not waiting for another static tech gadget; instead consumers are demanding a mobile phone that is “experience focused.”

The MacBook Air is a full-size 3 pound notebook encased in sleek, sturdy anodized aluminum. The 13.3-inch, widescreen LED backlit display is mercury- and arsenic-free. The keyboard is full-size and has backlit key illumination with a built-in ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts keyboard and display brightness for optimal visibility. MacBook Air also includes a built-in iSight camera and an oversized trackpad with multi-touch technology. The port hatch flips down to reveal (and closes to hide) a USB 2.0 port, headphone jack and a micro-DVI port. The Intel Core 2 Duo processor was custom-built to fit within the compact dimensions.

TuneStudio is a compact four-channel mixer for the iPod. The player is completely integrated into the mixer’s design, which allows natural interaction with the player’s screen and user interface and makes it possible to create CD-quality stereo recordings directly on the iPod’s hard drive. Recordings are immediately playable from the iPod’s music library. Experienced and novice users alike can create professional sounding, multi-channel digital audio for podcasts, music or video soundtracks. When connected to a computer via USB, TuneStudio extends the ability of computer-based music recording and editing software to work with analog instruments and microphones.

The Mobility Vision Integration Process (mVIP) investigates ways that expert designers can support and accelerate dialog about the future of sustainable mobility. These mVIP cards are an experimental tool that supports rapid future scenario development on the topic of sustainable mobility so that groups and individuals can quickly enter a dialog and brainstorm about possible outcomes, solutions and strategies. The deck contains 109 cards in 11 categories and is also available as an online brainstorming tool

Daan, which means “unit” or “column” in Korean, is an air purifier for home use. A single unit covers around 15m², about the size of a small room. Users can improve the performance to cover an area up to 30m² and 45m² by stacking the product. The product separates into three units that can be easily carried between rooms and slipped onto independent stands. Fabric and aluminum give the Daan a pleasing appearance that allows it to fit into the interior décor of any living space. A mood lighting function that creates a soft atmosphere further enhances its decorative aspects.

Achilles Heel is a table inspired by today’s culture of maximalism, which is fueled by the ideal of acquiring more and more. Achilles Heel challenges this notion, playing to the idea of fragility. The design explores its theme through creating unique spaces within the table that are waiting to be discovered and explored.

The KneelChair is an innovative new approach to paraplegic mobility. The chair places users in a kneeling position, which lengthens the torso, ensures that the internal organs are not compressed and maximizes blood flow. The use of bicycle gears coupled with levers reduces the effort required to power the wheels, allowing a shorter, more ergonomic motion and maximizing the power output of each stroke. The ergonomics are also improved with breathable mesh seating surfaces for increased airflow and cushioning. The seat height is adjustable, making it easier to transfer in and out of the chair.

Absolutely GORGEOUS mp3 player

2008-07-30T01:09:00.000-07:00

from engadget

Quite possibly the most gorgeous mp3 player I've ever seen, the iRiver SPINN is going to be released soon. If I wasn't b*lls deep in the iPod/iPhone world, this would absolutely my go to player (assuming the user interface was easy and enjoyable to use). The most amazing feature is the spinning barrel that allows you to select through the menu system and apparently features haptic (read physical) feedback as you scroll through it. According to engadget, it features a 3.3-inch, 480 x 272 pixel AMOLED display, T-DMB TV, Bluetooth, and new analog SPINN Wheel we've seen kicking around since CES. Currently on pre-order for South Korea with the 4GB model fetching 259,000KRW (about $259) or 8GB for 299,000KRW (about $299). That's right, it maxes out with just 8GB of flash. Check out their product page (in Korean): SPINN

This is one of those few products that I'll be keeping my eye on after its been on sale for a while...

COMMENTARY SECTION:

I don't know about you my fellow designers, but I actually collect products, packaging and items that I've loved over time as samples of what our collective humanity has made that inspires and enhances our lives. Like art but in a very different sort of context – I've always been inspired by the functional, creative and unique methods that humanity (for good and evil) has sought to solve problems and excite people. I've kept my ipods and I plan on keeping my iphones... I've kept my Nokia l'amour phone because it was in my opinion a great expression of adding value and customer connection to an otherwise disposable product etc etc; And if I have the ability, I'll do the same with this!

Sherif

Most hardcore phone out to date!

2008-07-30T00:56:00.000-07:00

If it was GSM and not CDMA, I would pick one of these up as a back-up as it'll probably out live me!

From Gizmodo

'Casio's G'zOne rugged-ass cellphone has been updated yet again, and this time it's called the Boulder. The Mil-Spec clamshell's got GPS, a 1.3MP camera, an LED lantern, microSD support and a digital compass in its shock-, dust- and water-resistant frame.'

Dynolicious iPhone App

2008-07-30T00:47:00.000-07:00

From autoblog.com

'One app that has us really psyched is a new automotive performance meter called Dynolicious from BunsenTech. It uses the accelerometer inside the iPhone to let you record 0-10 through 0-100 times, quarter mile and trap speed, Lateral Gs, horsepower and more. Results are also displayed in real-time on the phone itself with graphs and a speedometer. You can also configure the tool with updates to your car, weight, before and after performance measurements, and keep a complete history of all your runs. The kicker is that you don't even have to plug in your iPhone anywhere, just set it in the cup holder and drive. The folks at Dynolicious promise 0-60 accuracy to within .08 seconds and a quarter mile speed to within 1.5 mph.'

Pretty dope – I'll be checking it out soon!

Forgot one

2008-07-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hint of Chrome & Red Numerals

2008-07-26T02:27:00.001-07:00

*yawn*

Sherif & Nat colab

2008-07-26T01:28:00.000-07:00

Nat suggested I combined a few of my previous directions and after a few quick exchanges, this is what it produced – Nice, one of my favorites (obviously it has the 722)

I was supposed to add a bit of color...

2008-07-25T21:23:00.000-07:00

So I went a little crazy haha

More , more and more!

2008-07-25T16:24:00.000-07:00

I should add that the sketch below was done emulating a style my very talented friend Jen Choy shared with me – you can see her blog here: Jennifer Choy

and my favorite – I'll probably use this on my business card

More variations and conceptual exploration

2008-07-24T15:51:00.000-07:00

Different styles, different directions, more exploration, we shall see

The latest

2008-07-22T04:55:00.000-07:00

The latest – different approach from the others - tighter than the loose one, but more emotional I think. Not bad, still have a bit I'd like to improve, but that'll come in time and with experience!

its late...

Sherif

Some of my work I'm actually proud of

2008-07-20T21:03:00.000-07:00

Both similar designs but different approaches towards the same concept. I've actually pretty happy with the way they both turned out, much much more so for the 2nd one (the loose one) b/c it expresses the same feeling without all the stiffness of the other – its more emotional and therefore more exciting. Gotta keep doing more and hopefully I'll have a good end to this term!

Sherif

Scarp Lights

2008-07-12T21:42:00.000-07:00

Beautiful lights newly available here

KaoPaoShu by Naida Begeta

2008-07-03T13:29:00.000-07:00

I met this wonderful woman the other night – her clothing were amazing, her style is amazing and she's opened up a shop here in LA

KaoPaoShu

7227 Beverly blvd.

Los Angeles, CA, 90036,

tel. 323.937.0081

Hussein Chalayan is amazing!

2008-07-03T13:09:00.002-07:00

Alexander McQeen Holographic Fashion Show

2008-07-03T13:09:00.001-07:00

Diesel Liquid Space Holographic Fashion Show (2007)

2008-07-03T13:02:00.000-07:00

I want to date the girl who designed these... or the girl in the picture!

2008-07-03T12:59:00.000-07:00

Designed by Catherine Meuter, The EIN/TRITT shoe concepts shows how modern technology can take shoe manufacturing to the next paradigm. Flat shoe patterns with reinforced parts get folded and fixed by the consumer. Production and shipping costs are significantly reduced. From an aesthetic point of view, it has a very geometric and architectural form that’ll definitely grab you some attention.

Via Yanko Design

Zygo Teapot

2008-07-03T12:51:00.000-07:00

Absolutely gorgeous in an eerily techno-biomorphic nature.

Drinking tea is a special time. Unlike coffee, where things are rushed at a breakneck speed, drinking tea is a time of introspection, and meditation. It is personal, spiritual and ceremonial. The Zygo teapot draws on these qualities to enhance the tea experience. The delicate yet sturdy ceramic frame embraces the stainless steel sphere in an engaging juxtaposition of form, surface, and material.

via Yanko Design

Wow, amazing computer concept

2008-07-03T12:47:00.001-07:00

“B-membrane” design by Korean designer Won-Seok Lee.

He has taken the need for a bulky monitors right out of the equation and opted for beaming your YouTubing onto any surface you can point the omni-directional projector at. Some highlights of this Kubrick inspired mother ship computer include a membrane keyboard that appears when needed, integrated optical drive and when not used as a computer, the projector can beam ambient light effects on any surface you desire.

via Yanko Design

King Abdulaziz Center for Knowledge and Culture by Snøhetta

2008-07-03T12:40:00.000-07:00

Construction has begun in Saudi Arabia on the King Abdulaziz Centre for Knowledge and Culture by Norwegian architects Snøhetta. The centre, commissioned by Saudi oil giant Aramco and designed to “reflect the history of oil in Saudi Arabia” - will incorporate a museum, library, theatre and cinema.

Via Dezeen

Ring Faucet by Sun Liang

2008-07-01T15:48:00.000-07:00

from Yanko

Ring faucet is about experiencing water in a whole new way in our daily lives - to rediscover the awe-inspiring beauty of water in a small home faucet. This unique faucet visually frames flowing water in a circular fashion, giving you a full view of the water just as it falls over the edge.

I've been waiting for this chess set

2008-07-01T13:17:00.000-07:00

A Chess Set inspired by the novel 'Alice through the Looking Glass' where the pieces magically turn transparent when they touch the board.

In ‘Alice through the Looking Glass’ by Lewis Carroll, Alice falls through a mirror and on the other side of the mirror, she becomes a piece in a game of chess. Inspired by this, the chess pieces have an opaque mirror finish, when they touch the surface of the board they magically turn transparent and reveal the identity of the piece contained inside them. When removed from the board they revert to being opaque, hiding the identity of the piece.

This is a comment on how a chess piece has no value unless it is in play on the board. If removed from the board, a pawn and a queen are equal, in that neither have any value.

See more of Yasmin Sethi's work @ yasminsethi.com

Kage Roi - Creativity Room

2008-07-01T13:03:00.000-07:00

IT company Kayac has teamed up with researchers from Keio University to develop a high-tech brainstorming room that listens to its inhabitants and feeds them a barrage of related data and images in order to boost creativity and fuel the imagination.

The system — called “Kage Roi” — relies on a speech-recognition capable computer that monitors the brainstorming session via microphone, identifies keywords, and automatically crawls the web in search of related information and images. A ceiling-mounted projector then casts the retrieved data and imagery onto dark, human-shaped shadows on the table during the course of the meeting. The brainstormers can free-associate on the projected data, use it as a tool for discussion, or rely on it for helpful cues if ideas are running short.

Kage Roi also features an ambient, multi-colored LED lighting system designed to stimulate creativity by altering the mood of the room. The “half-day course” setting, for example, simulates the rising and setting of the sun over the course of a 2-hour brainstorming session, helping to create a gradual mood shift as the meeting progresses.

from Pink Tentacle

Snowcial Media has a great article on owning your name on the internet

2008-07-01T12:56:00.000-07:00

We all know how critical it is to effectively tag ours – or our clients’ – websites in order to obtain the highest search rankings. We understand the importance of appearing in the top ten organic results in order to demonstrate the company’s presence, credibility, and level of expertise in their given vertical.

And you have no doubt worked tirelessly to achieve top results on all of the major search engines.

But have you spent any time tagging yourself?

We all know that you’ve spent plenty of time Googling yourself.

(Go on, admit it.)

So, why haven’t you played a part in how you rank?

If you’re a professional, touting your expertise on any topic, you need to build your personal brand, and the most important medium for doing so in this age of technology is the Internet.

read the rest of the article @ SNOWCIAL

Cristobal Palma

2008-07-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

Amazing photography at Cristobal Palma Photography

via NOTCOT

Rest in Peace... In loving memory of Francesco Carrara

2008-06-26T17:37:00.000-07:00

I got word, first thing when I woke up, of the passing of a peer – Francesco Carrara. Francesco was a very talented student at Art Center and I had known him since my first terms at Art Center. I've been struggling with how to express myself over everything that has flooded in to my memory over the last few hours, but I'll just say that I have nothing but fond memories of this bright young man and dare I say friend. With my fellow Trans & Product peers we, with Francesco, spent many late nights, sketching and working often to the sounds of his music or movies in room 202. Later as he became more connected to the world of sustainability, our conversations grew in frequency about how to change the world for the better and then most recently, through Errol Gersons' class and Sunday meetings in the park we continued to debate and discover the future fate of things. Francesco was an impassioned man, striving for truth and his place within the world.

For the first time now, as I posted his picture to this blog, did it really hit me that I would never see his face again. *pause* thats all I can type for now...

Rest in Peace Francesco, Rest in Peace...

2008-06-24T21:56:00.000-07:00

Something I just created for my Mercedes Projecct

2008-06-22T20:54:00.000-07:00

Nick Veasey is amazing check out his amazing xray work here

MINDSHARE TONIGHT!

2008-06-19T10:02:00.000-07:00

We're excited to announce the line up for this Thursday:

Genya Frankel / Bio-Physicist, CalTech

Benjamin Franklin Stilled the Waves

Gully Burns / Neuroinformatics Research Scientist, USC / ISI

Ars Veritatis: The Art of Truth

Anna Agapiou / Designer, The Groop

Branding the Live Earth global concert series

Satine Phoenix / Fetish Model, Adult Film Star, & Artist

Sex: Video vs. Reality

With a special appearance by the Android Cartel of Proton Radio

Fashion is forward

2008-06-15T00:18:00.000-07:00

Hussein Chalayan is amazing, spring summer 2007

Validation, inspiration & a life forever changed

2008-06-10T03:32:00.000-07:00

For the last year I have spoken with some of you about the future of transportation - more importantly how we can truly change and delve further in to not only the concept of transportation but the physical representation of it. I have, through my dialogue with each of you, grown and realized a vision that is becoming refined more and more each day – but today my life has forever been altered. I don't know how to relate my ideas and understanding of what I'm about to show you – but the future is now a much brighter place... I was brought to tears watching this; something which I have not experienced in many years, over any subject.

The best I can do is to share this simple thought; this is the beginning of the change of how we look at vehicles, how we understand design and what it can do to both elevate and express the user in new ways. I can't even begin to think about what tomorrow will look like when I wake up - things will be soo different from this point forward, this is a quintessential moment in history not only for myself, but for all of us....

You have no excuse

2008-06-08T21:39:00.001-07:00

I love it

2008-06-05T17:31:00.001-07:00

Double click to play

Joris Laarman

Last one for now - gotta get back to work

2008-06-05T14:56:00.003-07:00

James White!

Tony Ariawan - my God!

2008-06-05T14:53:00.001-07:00

Check out his portfolio here: Tony Ariawan

Beautiful work by Florencia Mazza

2008-06-05T14:44:00.000-07:00

Check out the rest of her portfolio here

or her website - Florencia Mazza

Anybody love this video as much as I do

2008-06-05T14:37:00.000-07:00

(Either JavaScript is not active or you are using an old version of Adobe Flash Player. Please install the newest Flash Player.)

Please do not watch if you are prone to epileptic seizures.

From Behance

Future Watercraft

2008-06-05T09:58:00.001-07:00

Behance via NOTCOT

The Nereus is a conceptual watercraft which can operate above and blow the water line. Inspiration was clearly gleaned from a manta-ray but was done quite beautifully. Apparently the designer had chosen to power this vehicle by sail or kite power – I think the design is a little to speedy and sexy for that.

Future vision

2008-06-04T10:13:00.000-07:00

Conceptual future work by Blutsbruder

Watch Concept

2008-06-01T11:57:00.001-07:00

This is one of the most amazing watch concepts I've seen. Developed by Matthew Wagerfield, Sentio is a concept for the blind and people with compromised vision. Each segment rises and falls to indicate time giving the watch both a visual and tactile display. Genius in my opinion – I can't stop looking at it and quite frankly, I will do what I can to get this built!

Sentio by Matthew Wagerfield

Crazy boots, fashion & photo shoot

2008-05-31T22:47:00.000-07:00

I love these boots that my friend linked me. These are amazing – using new experimental materials in new ways – check the rest of the images here

Some of my new favorite art:

2008-05-31T11:46:00.000-07:00

Richard Mille 020

2008-05-29T23:19:00.001-07:00

The latest from one of the biggest innovators in the haute horology game. Richard Mille has introduced the new 020 tourbillon pocket watch. Check out the excerpt from their press release:

"Part of a series of new horological advances realized by Richard Mille was the successful creation of a non-metallic movement baseplate, the first in watchmaking history. The new material utilized was carbon nanofiber, and the innovation was first tested with great success in the RM 006, an experimental model. The technical results were remarkable and Richard Mille therefore decided to expand the use of carbon nanofiber further throughout his tourbillon range. Progress in this important area of horological research begun by Richard Mille has now opened up a new era of applying new materials in the watchmaking industry. The RM 020 furthers this development by being the first pocket watch ever built using a baseplate structure of carbon nanofiber. The RM 020 is supplied together with a special type of titanium watch chain comprising a new design of fast release/attach mechanism."

The most amazing jet ever

2008-05-29T19:48:00.001-07:00

The Su-30 Flanker doing some highly technical maneuvers.

The coolest purse I've seen...

2008-05-29T00:46:00.001-07:00

via. NotCot

Jerome Olivet purse is exquisite in its architectural form and expression. Great concept, execution and material choice. Style, sophistication and all in a nice package. € 84

Also on Flylyf

2008-05-25T21:14:00.001-07:00

via flylyf

Built NY Laptop Backpack – Made from lightweight neoprene and breathable air mesh, our new ultra-slim backpack streamlines the transport of your laptop and accessories. The main compartment accommodates and protects laptops from 12–17" with room to spare for books, folders or other essentials.

Amazing

2008-05-25T21:01:00.000-07:00

(Either JavaScript is not active or you are using an old version of Adobe Flash Player. Please install the newest Flash Player.)

I wish people like this would make visual interfaces for daily life. This was found on 'flylyf' by a group called GKASTER. Check'em out – maybe the Oakley sunglasses with mp3 player would mean something if it could project images like this.

My new glasses

2008-05-25T04:30:00.000-07:00

I love buying pieces that fit my personality and style – I've been eyeing these for a long time now and finally decided to pull the trigger. Now I just need to get some new contacts. Summer here I come!

Wood

2008-05-23T19:39:00.001-07:00

via. NOTCOT

Matthias Pleissnig famous for his modern and chic furniture, has launched his latest Chaise design called the Providence. The Desginer seating morphs together two different forms into one so that while a person can sit upright on one end, it also allows another person to lounge on the other. The furniture is made from Steam bent oak. Perfect for an evening to spend lounging and talking with your significant other.

Magnetics

2008-05-23T19:24:00.001-07:00

Inspiring

2008-05-22T20:16:00.000-07:00

Some of the best work I've seen in a short while.

by TIM BORGMANN

F1 Steering wheels

2008-05-22T08:59:00.000-07:00

Via NOTCOT | oobject.com

And you thought your steering wheels had too many buttons. The people at oobject make a rather astute observation, "The complexity is ubiquitous, all 11 Formula 1 teams produce cars with more or less the same multi button design allowing adjustment and tweaks of traction and aerodynamics from the wheel itself. Unlike a road car, space and focus constraints mean that the entire dashboard is on the steering wheel. This is something that will no doubt be copied, unnecessarily, in consumer cars in future, but would that be a UI improvement?"

You can find the gallery here

Math can be art

2008-05-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

Source: ThinkGeek

Bathsheba Grossman is an artist exploring how math, science and sculpture interconnect. Her work is about life in three dimensions, symmetry and balance, and always finding beauty in geometry. These are three excellent examples of her work.

Lamborghini the lifestyle brand

2008-05-21T05:58:00.001-07:00

Lamborghini recently released this video of the new Gallardo LP-560-4, their redesign of the baby (and sometimes questioned to be a genuine) Lambo. It seems from this video that the boys in Italy (and Germany as they are owned by VW/Audi Group), that they are shifting their perspective and trying to create what seems to be a more lifestyle geared branding experience.

What do I mean by this? Watch the video and notice that the concepts they associate with this vehicle are A) attracting women B) general hoonage C) social climbing/status. Its interesting because none of these have to do with the increased performance or obvious function of the vehicle itself.

This is nothing new – plenty of brands focus their vehicles this way – but I suppose I didn't perceive it to be quite so overt from the Italian camps. Now in contrast – Ferrari is a lifestyle, but a lifestyle of pure, hardcore performance – not about getting phone-numbers. I'm actually really curious about what lifestyle Lamborghini is trying to promote because the substantive value this video suggests is fairly pathetic.

Lets be honest – the type of individual who puts forth the money for a supercar is generally of a limited scope of marketing profiles. We can assume there is the type of individual who seeks to better his or her life with the purchase of the top type of vehicle – whose very performance and ownership experience and brand history will all factor in to the purchasing decision. In contrast to this we can probably assume that there is the newly rich either rapper, footballer (soccer) or socialite whose barometer of self and brand awareness is a bit off and probably understands that Lamborghinis are cool cars, expensive, look crazy and drive really fast. They buy it because of the reasons mentioned in the paragraph above and they love the attention it brings them. Drive down to Holllywood on any Thurs, Fri, Sat and you will see this guy with his buddy cruising around the strip in his Gallardo trying to pull girls on their way to the club and since the car only has to seats, the girls can casually 'sit on the guys lap.'

Does this move to play directly to the target market instead of the aspirational market serve as a positive choice? In my opinion, it probably devalues the brand because instead of elevating it and how it provides betterment (in real ways) of your life, it just maintains the status quo of what seems to be a garish and shallow group of nouveau-riche, whose primary concerns in life are doing donuts, purchased social status, attracting women on the street and territoriality; all of which are quite simply basest principles. They do nothing to elevate the consumer, nothing to suggest a higher set of values – in fact it I would suggest it probably takes your avg. consumer and brings him down to this unprincipled way of life as it does the brand.

I suppose in my naivete its easy for me to cast aspersions upon the marketing of such a historic brand. Yet unlike a generally uninformed opinion – my rule is that one should always seek to target the aspirational buyer for any product because you want to promise AND deliver items which serve to inspire, elevate and motivate.

Why I have renewed faith in Nintendo

2008-05-19T10:27:00.001-07:00

With the advent of the original Nintendo system, Nintendo became the de facto king of the console market place. Yet they couldn't stave away the onslaught of competitors. Sega then Sony and now Microsoft. Their market share began to wane and eventually fell from grace – formerly ranking 1st in sales (and in our hearts) to 3rd (Sony 1st, Microsoft 2nd). But now, Nintendo has staged a bit of a coup.

They have changed their gaming paradigm to fundamentally control a whole different segment of the market. Which, you may ask... well consider the following titles: Big Brain Academy, Brain Age, Wii Fit. I think it is a genius move and shows to me that Nintendo is not only an intelligent company but also has a clear vision for where they and the rest of the industry is heading. They chose to elevate their users. Nintendo, rather astutely, evaluated the marketplace and realized that there will always been competitors to handle the new cutting edge in graphics, 1st person shooters, racers and sports games – yet not a single competitor sought to make games which could increase the physical or brain activity of a user. They chose to make products that could help them improve their lives.

Its no wonder I own a Wii and a Nintendo DS but no PS3 or XBOX. They get my nod as a great company whom is trying to build a future in not just providing entertainment but also helping their users to build a better life.

I heart Mercedes

2008-05-18T21:03:00.000-07:00

I've always had a long standing love affair with Mercedes Benz. I remember growing up and reading one of my first books about cars (something from the 'How things work' series) which featured a 300SL Gullwing. It was over from that point forward – the images stirred something deep within me, resonating in a way little else had... it was as if my blood were tingling inside of me each and every time I would imagine the Gullwing cutting through some sleepy European village, its exhaust note reverberating off the stone walls and cobbled streets.

Later in life my parents got their first Mercedes, which was a bit odd as my mom had always loved Jaguars... but the car seemed to fit with our family. My curiosity bubbled over one day and I pressed my folks as to why, why this car and not another. I found out that both of them had grown up around Mercedes their entire lives, from their parents owning them to their brothers and sisters, and to them, it only felt right to get one of their own.

It seems as if it is in our blood, the very molecules within us shining with the 3-pointed star – though this seems like a joke or exaggeration, I have been planning my ownership for ages now and there are few manufacturers that I put under the microscope more than my beloved Mercedes. With each new model, with each corporate decision – I am there, observing, critiquing and opining, as if I know what is best for the brand.

Yet why all of this? Why even bring this up? Because it is this quality that defines Future Classic. True brand loyalty is about a way of life – our avatars, our selves. We enjoy dressing up each day but there are few pieces of clothing in our wardrobe that speak directly to our hearts. It is these that we wear consistently, it is these that give us confidence, it is these that bring our best selves forward, that elevates to our own greater self. Mercedes is a part of that for me... and I hope the vehicles I produce in the future, do the same for you.

Sherif

2008-05-17T00:21:00.000-07:00

It has been my growing opinion that it is requisite for any growing brand or enterprise to elevate the human experience to be genuinely successful. Let me first explain that my definition of success is not only in reference to the bottom line but in creating a product or brand that is of a truly lasting quality; a future classic so to speak. Maslow, in princple, was correct in his observation of the stratification of human needs – yet we can take where he left off and expand our understanding by observing truly successful individuals, marks, brand, products and notice that each took steps to elevate the individual past his or her existing status in Maslow's hierarchy and attempted elevate them to the next 'level up,' so to speak. When one can succeed by both offering a product, solution or interaction that is beneficial they have simply creating something 'good,' but when one creates benefit as well as the ability to uplift an individual or culture (not just themselves), they have done something great.

The sickest watch you've never seen

2008-05-16T19:56:00.000-07:00

Allow me to introduce the Urwerk 202. The 'Hammerhead' uses a unique winding system featuring compressed air – with two miniature turbines to control the rate of winding. I'm not entirely sure how the entirety of the system works but I assure you I will. The time is told through a set of rotating blocks featuring the hour and a minute indicator that extends and retracts along the face of the watch. Truly a horological masterpiece!

Just had to share this

2008-05-16T01:40:00.001-07:00

My favorite wallet in the world – this is on my next to purchase list. I gotta give the props to NOTCOT, my favorite site on the 'net for showing this to me first.

GUS STYLE

Hermes does it right

2008-05-16T01:02:00.000-07:00

Hermes has joined with Eurocopter to create a new form of Hermes branded transportation (you may remember that they co-branded with Bugatti to create the Hermes Veyron). Amazing. They have a true mastery of generating a full borne lifestyle. I'm stunned. More pictures found here.

Kelly Paper Rocks

2008-05-15T14:54:00.001-07:00

Well the new term is fully in swing – I found this new paper that should work well with my style. The paper is Teton Tiara; its a 65lb weight paper with a bit of surface texture. Doubt it'll work well with chalk and prisma pencil but it'll work really well with inks and paints. I purchased 50 23x40 pages for about $75 and it produced this, 200 11x17 sheets, 250 5x8 sheets and 100 6x12 sheets. What can I say, 200 11x17's and 7 sketchbooks for $75 is a steal!!

The sketch is just a quick side view of a speed-form ship Marker & Pen

Dolce Winter 2009 Show is hot!!

2008-05-14T23:21:00.000-07:00

Dolce Winter 2009

Can't seem to get this off of my mind today

2008-05-14T22:46:00.001-07:00

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Compressor Pro Geographic

Made from titanium and articulated rubber this is the most advanced dive watch on the market today. It features a mechanical depth gauge which is pretty amazing – I read an interview with Jean-Claude Biver earlier today and he said the special thing about mechanical timepieces is that they have lasting quality in comparison devices that require sensors and batteries. This seems to easily reinforce his sentiments!

This watch would go perfectly with the Spadaconcept and some sharp Dolce gear!

New Supercar ready for production!

2008-05-14T22:29:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of Jalopnik:

Spadaconcept Codatronica is ready for production featuring an all aluminum V8 producing over 600hp and nearly 500lb/ft of torque with a top speed of 211mph!

I have to say, I love its boldness – its stealth like qualities just serve to add to the mystique of this brand and this car. I hope the company takes a page out from the Ford Model T color book and offer this car in any color as long as it is black!

Inspiring Lighting @ Engadget!

2008-05-14T22:18:00.000-07:00

UFO Chandelier

Constellation Light

New Aliph Jawbone soon to be available

2008-05-14T22:13:00.000-07:00

As an owner of an Aliph Jawbone, I can tell you they are amazing products – check out the latest version at engadget!

More pictures of the new Pagani!

2008-05-14T22:08:00.001-07:00

Crazy new stuff is in development it seems!

New pictures courtesty of Autoblog Italy!

NEW PAGANI IN DEVELOPMENT!!!

2008-04-03T01:46:00.000-07:00

I distinctly hear supercharger whine....

Strange and Weird

2008-04-03T01:08:00.001-07:00

Trend Group Digest

2008-04-01T01:18:00.000-07:00

So I created this little email group call the 'trend' group, we email each other the latest trends in a wide range of subjects.... here are some of the selections that've been exchanged