The Doom Generation And Nowhere Are Worlds We Still Want To Live In

July 21, 2015, 9:00 pm

≪ Previous: Juliana Huxtable And Casey Jane Ellison Team Up For MOCA’s Step And Repeat

It’s been over 20 years since Gregg Araki’s The Doom Generation blazed onto the film scene and delighted and disturbed viewers. Part of the Teenage Apocalypse Trilogy, its fresh and graphic take on the MTV generation still influences today’s music videos and fashion runways.

Ahead of Opening Ceremony and Dirty Looks’ The Doom Generation screening at Anthology Film Archives tomorrow night, we’re looking back on some of the iconic sets and costumes from Araki’s pivotal films.

Growing up a slightly rebellious girl with a taste for colorful clothing and painted bedroom walls adorned with a ridiculous amount of posters, my inner Scorpio was prone to envy the first time the camera teased Mel’s Twister-themed room in Nowhere. The bleach-white walls, baggy overalls, and matching phone—all splattered with colorful red, blue, and yellow polka dots to match—were a board game-cum-fashion dream come true. While the spotted room only has a few moments of camera time, it’s easily one of the most badass female bedrooms in history, and it helped both the film and fashion worlds realize one important fact: Gregg Araki says it’s more than okay to coordinate your outfit with your bedroom.

From the black-and-white checkered room where Amy, Jordan, and X contemplated their existence in The Doom Generation, to the slushie-filled racks and “Shoplifters Will Be Executed” posters in the chaotic quickie mart, the sets and locations in Araki’s films have become as iconic as each film’s young stars and their bitchy one-liners. In addition to a team of other creatives, one of the driving forces responsible for the drool-worthy sets in Araki’s most notable films is Jennifer Gentile. While the designer has since made her name bringing to life sets for more mainstream works such as Dumb and Dumber To and the CSI television series, she got her start decorating the neon-hued, angsty sets in Araki’s early Teenage Apocalypse Trilogy films.

“The set designs and color palettes are so brilliant to start, it was all about keeping an open mind when searching for the right pieces to fill the sets,” says Gentile. “Luckily, Los Angeles is full of quirky places to shop.”

With so many prime set moments, even Gentile has a hard time picking just one standout.

“My favorite set in The Doom Generation was the red motel room and [Egg’s] flower bedroom in Nowhere,” says Gentile. “It was so long ago, I'm sure there were lots of challenges. I can only imagine budget being the most difficult—although, I do remember getting a lot of stuff for free.”

It’s easy to see the modern-day influence of these film’s drug-induced sets, post-apocalyptic locations, and spot-on costumes. Gentile’s favorite red motel room was immortalized during a scene from Rihanna’s latest “BBHMM” video, where her trio of badass females bring their blonde hostage into a neon motel room laced with the haze of sweat and drugs. “I think [Araki’s] films opened doors for designers to explore new ways to translate the story through the env

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Denim Is Better With Feathers

July 22, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Rose McGowan Knows Her VMA Look Was “Punk As F”

≪ Previous: The Doom Generation And Nowhere Are Worlds We Still Want To Live In

It doesn’t get much more “everyday” than denim and tees. In a world so fast-paced searching for the perfect outfit in the morning is simply out of the question, the pairing is the unofficial uniform of the “throw something on and run out the door” mentality. But when have you ever put on a pair of jeans and a T-shirt and felt what you were wearing was exciting or special? Thanks to some re-imagination on OC’s part, the answer can be “now.”

Our new collection, Opening Ceremony ReWork, takes some of the most classic denim staples—Levi’s 505 and 501 jeans—as well as classic cotton tees to create a line of expertly tailored, ostrich feather-trimmed pieces that are far removed from the basic cutoffs you reach for before errand runs. “We wanted to rework a pair of Levi’s to give it a completely different feel and bring in an unexpected element to the classic fabric,” says OC founder Humberto Leon about the project. “We were super excited about bringing this element that you would normally see on dresses and gowns into denim.”

The care and detail you would bring to creating a couture gown, on the world’s most everyday pieces. Why not?

Shop all Opening Ceremony ReWork here

OC Denim ReWork Feather Trim T-Shirt in white, OC Denim ReWork Feather Trim Jeans Shorts in white

OC Denim ReWork Feather Trim T-Shirt in black, OC Denim ReWork Feather Trim Jeans Shorts in light blue

OC Denim ReWork Feather Trim T-Shirt in white, OC Denim ReWork Feather Trim Jeans in white

OC Denim ReWork Feather Trim Jeans Shorts in light blue

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Rose McGowan Knows Her VMA Look Was “Punk As F”

July 22, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: The Mirror Cube: Must-See Events The Week Of 7/23

≪ Previous: Denim Is Better With Feathers

Last month, Rose McGowan sparked a debate when she tweeted out a ridiculously sexist casting note that requested for actresses to “show off cleavage.” Her single tweet, with the term “Madam Panhandler” as a hilarious hint, shed light on the sexism that continues to rule Hollywood and the mainstream media. It also reminded us that Rose has been defying the status quo since she first emerged on the cultural radar in the early ‘90s. From the sheer dress days of the VMAs to her recent directorial debut, the short film Dawn, Rose is an inspiration—and one who still manages to inspire a Tumblr generation of teens to dress just like Amy Blue.

We could go on and on about why we love each of Rose’s iconic looks, but we figured we’d let her discuss the stories behind each of these on- and off-screen outfits. Even the actress/director agrees that some of her looks were “pretty damn fabulous” and she’s still not afraid to call out Hollywood execs who “made a mess” of one of her films from ‘01. Find out the story behind each of Rose’s looks below:

On that iconic head-turning VMA dress: “Punk as F.”

On that trippy mini-skirt in Scream: “I shopped for this outfit the night before filming began because I wasn’t feeling the costumer. I knew there would be a shot from behind as I open the fridge (in the scene), so I wanted to make it as trippy as possible. Also, I hated that hair even though it was perfect for the role.”

On her outfits in Jawbreaker: “The costumer on Jawbreaker was so good! Vikki Brinkkord. She dyed all of the seams on our nylons to match our respective outfits. She really got the character. Courtney ruled through clothes as well.”

On that all-orange moment in Nowhere: “There’s all kinds of awesome going on here. This day was crazy. We shot this on a bus bench and caused a car accident. I’m surprised it was the only one.”

On her looks in The Doom Generation: “Such a great shot and such a great wardrobe. They nailed it. Snarl courtesy of me.”

On that Versace ad with Missy and Lil’ Kim: “I think the look on my face says it all. In retrospect, it’s pretty damned fabulous being fabulous. That was all my hair.”

On wearing her own

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The Mirror Cube: Must-See Events The Week Of 7/23

July 22, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Still Holding Off On Your Dream Duds? Sale Now Up To 70% Off

≪ Previous: Rose McGowan Knows Her VMA Look Was “Punk As F”

We all have that moment where Friday night rolls around and a Netflix binge is the primary “event” option. In order to cure your major case of FOMO, we’ve teamed up with The Mirror Cube, a new happenings site that features events recommended by artists. With their expert panel of visual artists, actors, writers, and directors, The Mirror Cube brings you the lowdown on what shows, screenings, and exhibits you should check out each week in New York and Los Angeles.

NY: Listen to Me Marlon at Film Forum
July 29-August 11
Picked by: The Mirror Cube
What: Director Stevan Riley’s illuminating documentary about method-acting legend and notorious recluse Marlon Brando, whose star turns include The Godfather, On the Waterfront, and A Streetcar Named Desire.

Why Go: Brando was a deeply private man, and this new doc is narrated by the actor in his own words. The visuals and audio used in the film were culled from hundreds of hours of Brando’s personal footage—including self-hypnosis tapes—offering unprecedented access into the inner life of one of Hollywood’s all-time greats.

NY: Dawes & First Aid Kit at Central Park SummerStage
July 27 at 6 PM
Picked by: Carson Meyer
What: LA indie band Dawes will co-headline with the Swedish folk duo First Aid Kit as a part of Central Park’s outdoor summer concert series.

Why Go: Sisters Johanna and Klara Söderberg of First Aid Kit mine the traditions of American folk, country, and bluegrass to create a warm, nostalgic sound that Slate called “irresistible.”

NY: Basquiat: The Unknown Notebooks at The Brooklyn Museum
April 3-August 23
Picked by: Lyz Olko
What: Rarely exhibited notebooks of the iconic New York artist that compile poetry, text, sketches, and personal observations.

Why Go: Basquiat was a self-taught artist with far-reaching cross-cultural references, and his notebooks reveal his wide-ranging inspirations and how they helped inform his process and shape his art.

LA: Rodrigo Amarante & Kevin Morby at Teragram Ballroom
July 28 at 9 PM
Picked by: Jasmine Albuquerque
What: The Brazilian singer and multi-instrumentalist is touring to promote his first solo album, Cavalo, and will be joined by singer-songwriter Kevin Morby, who is coming off the release of his sophomore solo album, Still Life.

Why Go: Both Rodrigo Amarante and Kevin Morby have embarked on solo careers after being part of celebrated bands: Amarante is one of the founding members of Los Hermanos and supergroup Little Joy, and Morby was the bassist in Woods and is a vocalist and guitarist for The Babies.

LA:

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Still Holding Off On Your Dream Duds? Sale Now Up To 70% Off

July 22, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Your Baby Is Way Cooler Than You

≪ Previous: The Mirror Cube: Must-See Events The Week Of 7/23

They say that patience is a virtue, so if you’ve been holding off on that perfect J.W. Anderson sweater or the Moschino bag of your dreams, your hard work is about to pay off. We just bumped our sale up to a whopping 70 percent off, and included all of the brands one’s heart could desire. From Carven to Hood By Air to Marques’Almeida, there’s an array of options to reward yourself for retail responsibility.

Remember, patience and apathy are two very different things. Our suggestion is to grab your dream piece—or pieces—as quickly as you can. When the price is this right, don’t expect them to stick around for too long.

Shop all Sale here

*Sale prices are not applicable to previous purchases or open to price adjustment. Discounts are valid online while stocks last. All sale merchandise is Final Sale.

Enjoy free ground shipping on orders over $100 pre-tax with UPS Ground Shipping method selected. Offer is valid within the contiguous United States only.

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Your Baby Is Way Cooler Than You

July 23, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: What We Learned From Rose McGowan At The Doom Generation And Dawn Screening

≪ Previous: Still Holding Off On Your Dream Duds? Sale Now Up To 70% Off

Have you ever looked through fashionable baby Instagrams only to look back on your younger years of bowl haircuts and doily socks and think, “Why didn’t my parents ever dress me up in clothes like this?”

Now, you can reverse the childhood FOMO with Opening Ceremony’s Mini Logo tees (and Onesies!), which come in a trio of toddler-approved colors: black, turquoise, and hot pink. Thanks to your swift thinking, your child won’t have to one day cringe at the family photos the way grown-ups born in the ‘80s and ‘90s do looking back at all that hand-me-down OshKosh B'Gosh (though we’re definitely still fans of those corduroy overalls).

And just so that you can match your child’s cool-factor, there’s plenty of OC Logo gear for adults as well. No one in the fam needs to feel left out.

Shop all Opening Ceremony men’s and women’s

OC founder Humberto’s little leading ladies wear Opening Ceremony Mini Logo gear. Emi wears the Opening Ceremony Mini Logo Onesie in black and Mazzy wears the Opening Ceremony Mini Logo Tee in hot pink.

Opening Ceremony Kids Mini Logo Tee in turquoise

Opening Ceremony Kids Mini Logo Tee in hot pink

Opening Ceremony Kids Mini Logo Tee in black

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What We Learned From Rose McGowan At The Doom Generation And Dawn Screening

July 23, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Buff Muay Thai Fighters Sport Buff MASSIVE Gear

≪ Previous: Your Baby Is Way Cooler Than You

Last night’s screening of Gregg Araki’s The Doom Generation and Dawn, Rose McGowan’s directorial debut, was a moment of full-circle, behind-the-scenes revelations.

Starting the night watching a 16-year-old Rose cuss her way into non-stop trouble in The Doom Generation was quite the juxtaposition with the actress’ own debut behind the lens. McGowan’s short film Dawn centers around the seemingly prim and proper life of a teen girl living in the early ‘60s, who unexpectedly gets wrapped up in a shocking and unexpected act of violence. After the two film screenings, OC’s Humberto Leon introduced Bradford Nordeen of the Dirty Looks film festival and Rose to the audience. The pair went on to talk about her iconic role in The Doom Generation, her transition into directing, and the true ammo behind her recent tweet calling out Hollywood sexism.

Below, we share the prime facts that we learned from Rose’s Q&A session:

Rose was first discovered standing in front of a gym in Hollywood:
I was standing with the writer of Dawn, like fast-forward that he coincidentally ended up writing that. Gregg Araki’s best friend came up and asked if I wanted to be an actress and I said “No.” But I had loved film since I was a child and later on they kind of kept coming after me, then I said “Fine!” And I asked, “Where do I have to go and meet this Gregg Araki?” and they told me I had to go to the Valley and I was like, “I’m not going to the Valley!” And that’s basically what it was.

The character of Amy Blue in The Doom Generation reflects Rose’s own experience of being a rebellious 15 year old:
I mean, not sexually, but I wasn't born with a bag of middle fingers big enough. [I was] like an iron eggshell: it looks very tough and hard but you touch her and she might just crack. It was funny, [after the film was released] the press kept coming after me saying “You’re so brave.” And I didn’t realize until about three year later when I did the DVD commentary that I was saying really sexual things. There was not as single improvised line [in the film]; I thought it was all made up slang. My dad actually chased Gregg Araki out of a movie theater in Seattle.

She believes there will always be an audience for The Doom Generation:
I think the audience that was there for it originally is the same audience that’s there for it now: the unique thinkers and the weirdos. The people that want something in your face that grips you and takes you on a journey, like Gregg Araki does. It’s always found the right people.

Dawn came about because Rose realized she’s “not a commodity”:
Dawn was really because I had largely stepped out of Hollywood and traveled and had done all these different jobs. I came back and I was like, “Wait, I’m an artist not a commodity.” And three months later, I was shooting Dawn. It was about figuring out what I wanted to do. There’s something special about creating your own world, and that’s what I share with Gregg Araki: it’s a singular thing.

Rose was originally set to adapt a Flannery O’Connor short story:
For Dawn, I was originally doing the Flannery O’Connor [story] A Good Man Is Hard to Find, but I lost the rights. And you’ll see shades of that in here. It’s something that was really heartbreaking to lose, but it came tog

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Buff Muay Thai Fighters Sport Buff MASSIVE Gear

July 26, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Happy Birthday Bugs Bunny! XO Moschino

≪ Previous: What We Learned From Rose McGowan At The Doom Generation And Dawn Screening

With each of its collections adorned with sexy, muscled hunks—illustrated by none other than cult bara artist Jiraiya—MASSIVE inspires us to get to the gym like no other clothing line. So, we figured the time was right to have real-life ripped humans show us how to wear our new MASSIVE for Opening Ceremony collection.

Enter the fighters and trainers at Five Points Academy in Soho. The training center focuses on teaching New Yorkers the art of Muay Thai fighting, a technique that Five Points owner Steve Milles discovered over 25 years ago. After a co-worker introduced him to the art, Milles soon found himself on a train in Thailand en route to a kai muay (a Muay Thai camp). After rigorous training sessions, Milles was presented with an opportunity few foreigners are offered: to compete in a fight at Chaweng Stadium in Koh Samui. “[The fight] was the most fun I had ever had in my life,” says Milles. “I lost a decision to a vastly more experienced Thai opponent, but I was greeted with smiles and congratulations when I returned to the camp because I had fought well and with heart.”

After going pro and touring the world to compete in fight championships, Milles opened up Five Points Academy, which quickly became a second home for many New Yorkers. “I tried one class and fell in love,” says fighter Gianna Smith, who sports a MASSIVE for OC tee illustrated with a buff Kendo fighter in the editorial. Five Points Academy trainer Emily Bearden, meanwhile, turned to Muay Thai after she was attacked by two men when heading home late at night. “I knew I needed to toughen up and I wanted to learn how to defend myself,” she said, “so I asked one of the guys at my gym to show me some self-defense lessons. That guy was Simon Burgess [a Partner at Five Points] and 17 years later he's still my trainer.”

And yes, it’s a rigorous workout. “I wouldn't consider any part of Muay Thai to be easy,” says amateur competitor Brandice Peltier, who paired the Shinjuku Tank with her own dragon-embroidered shorts. “Fight preparation for me is the most challenging. You are usually pretty sore, your muscles are tight, you are cutting weight on a calorie-restricted diet, and you have to get up every day and train, regardless of how you are feeling.” Despite the hardships, most fighters stick it out for the love of the sport. “I love that Muay Thai is a rich cultural art form that places a strong emphasis on honoring your teachers,” says worker Chanel Matsunami Govreau, who also wears the Shinjuku Tank. “It's like meditation for me. You have to empty your mind of distractions.”

Whether or not you plan to wear your MASSIVE for Opening Ceremony pieces in the ring, Five Points’ positive, kick-ass attitude is the perfect accessory.

View the editorial here

Shop all MASSIVE for Opening Ceremony h

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Happy Birthday Bugs Bunny! XO Moschino

July 27, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: J.W. Anderson's Past Influences The Future

≪ Previous: Buff Muay Thai Fighters Sport Buff MASSIVE Gear

Bugs Bunny looks great for his age.

On this day in 1940, everyone’s favorite mischievous bunny made his first public appearance in the Warner Bros. Oscar-nominated cartoon Wild Hare. While the bunny character was originally uncredited in the film, that quickly changed as the year went on and the rabbit we now know as Bugs Bunny quickly rose to fame. The animated film also gave birth to our favorite smartass question that would go on to haunt Elmer Fudd for his entire existence: “What’s up, Doc?”

While most seniors who reach the age of 75 normally head down to Florida to retire, Bugs has remained a mainstay in modern-day fashion and culture, constantly one-upping his contemporaries such as Roger and that pink Energizer bunny. This season, Moschino designer Jeremy Scott took notice and revisited some of the hip-hop-infused Looney Tunes moments that were popularized in the ‘90s, giving them an updated twist. Moschino’s Bugs Bunny sweater features Bugs in platform sneakers, chains, and a rightfully-earned crown atop his rabbit ears.

Let’s be honest, at 75, who doesn’t need a little facelift?

Shop all Moschino men’s and women’s

The Bugs Bunny Sweater is available in Opening Ceremony stores.

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J.W. Anderson's Past Influences The Future

July 28, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: The Mirror Cube: Must-See Events The Week Of 7/30

≪ Previous: Happy Birthday Bugs Bunny! XO Moschino

When asked what the inspirations were behind his Fall/Winter 2015 Menswear collection, J.W. Anderson cited the work of classic science fiction writer George Orwell. Though an unexpected reference in the world of fashion, a look at the collection will prove very quickly that it is an accurate one.

Expanding upon design elements present in his women’s Pre-Fall 15 collection, Anderson continues down the path of retrofuturism. Bizarrely oversized scarves, mid-century modern zipper pulls, and gender-bending color blocks take the “scholarly,” refined basics in the collection to a place that you can’t distinguish as either the past or the future. The collection’s intended decade might be all over the map, but with this ambiguity—as well as clean, expert tailoring and wearable color scheme—the collection achieves timelessness.

Shop all J.W. Anderson here

Turtleneck Zip Sweater in

Fringe Chunky Knit Scarf in red

Duo Roll-Neck Sweater in blue/rust

Knot Button Mandarin Collar Shirt in optic white

Patch Pocket Classic Shirt in deep sea blue and Double Pleated Cropped Pants in black

Short-Sleeve Polo Shirt in black

Contrast Stitch Crewneck Sweater in navy

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The Mirror Cube: Must-See Events The Week Of 7/30

July 29, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Meet Wil Fry, Creator of Luxe Basics, Crêpes, & Valet Parking Dreams

≪ Previous: J.W. Anderson's Past Influences The Future

NY: Scorsese Screens at MoMA
August 5-September 6
Picked by: The Mirror Cube
What: A screening series of over 30 films in 35mm that have influenced the work of director Martin Scorsese.

Why Go: Scorsese has directed some of the greatest American movies, including Mean Streets and Taxi Driver—which are both being shown as part of the series—but his passion for film history rivals his love of directing. The must-see selections in this retrospective include Max Ophüls’ The Earrings of Madame de..., Robert Hamer and Ealing Studios’ It Always Rains on Sunday, and Howard Hawks’ original 1932 Scarface.

NY: Caribou at East River Park
August 6 at 7 PM
Picked by: Amanda Charchian
What: Dan Snaith, aka Caribou, hits the Manhattan park to perform a free outdoor show with material from his latest album, Our Love.

Why Go: Our Love is Snaith’s first album as Caribou in four years, and it’s arguably his most accessible release: a crowd-pleasing dance record that’s won over critics and live audiences alike. Describing Our Love, Snaith told Rolling Stone that, “The whole initial impulse was to make something for everybody to listen to, and that’s such a shift for me.”

NY: Wes Anderson Art Show at Joseph Gross Gallery
August 7-9
Picked by: Waris Ahluwalia
What: Over 70 artists have submitted work inspired by the distinct aesthetic created by the filmmaker who brought us The Royal Tenenbaums, Fantastic Mr. Fox, and The Grand Budapest Hotel.

Why Go: This art created by some of Anderson’s most talented admirers offers a new perspective on his work: each artist chose her own medium for representing beloved characters from Anderson’s ever-expanding oeuvre.

LA: Tame Impala at Hollywood Forever
August 6-7 at 7 PM
Picked by: Jena Malone
What: The Australian psychedelic rock band plays on the Fairbanks Lawn at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery in LA as part of its international tour to promote its 2015 release, Currents.

Why Go: Founding member Kevin Parker proved himself to be a quadruple threat on this album, with Pitchfork saying that “nearly eve

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Meet Wil Fry, Creator of Luxe Basics, Crêpes, & Valet Parking Dreams

July 29, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Humberto Leon Goes #1 To Infinity With Mariah Carey

≪ Previous: The Mirror Cube: Must-See Events The Week Of 7/30

After climbing the ranks of the fashion blogs last season with his snarky price tag bombers and shorts, Aussie designer Wil Fry introduces his first full collection for Fall/Winter 2015. This season, the designer departs from the logomania that put his name on the map and instead introduces pared-down basics, soft pink thermal tanks, and fabrics that are soft to the touch. Meet the man behind the line below.

Shop all Wil Fry here

Name: Wil Fry
Hometown: Canberra, Australia
Astrological sign: Virgo
Hidden talent: Making crêpes
Celebrity crush: Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen
What was your style like in high school? Baggy tee, Baggy trackpants, sneakers
What's your favorite thing about Opening Ceremony? I always find something I haven't seen before.
What's your current collection inspiration? Navigating the Industry/Things that I would wear
If you were to do another job besides designing, what would it be? Valet Car Parking Guy
What’s your favorite music to listen to in the studio? Icehouse / Aphex Twin / FedEx hold music
Fuck, Kill, Marry (Al Capone, Tony Montana, Bonnie Parker): Fuck Bonnie Parker, Kill Al Capone, Marry Tony Montana

Click through the slideshow to see all products from Wil Fry.

Thermal Long-Sleeve Top in pepper

Thermal Basketball Tank in soft pink

French Terry Sport Sweat Tee in deep heather

Modal Cotton Sport Tee in soft heather

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Humberto Leon Goes #1 To Infinity With Mariah Carey

July 28, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Spotted: Chloe Sevigny With Mysterious Man In New Zine

≪ Previous: Meet Wil Fry, Creator of Luxe Basics, Crêpes, & Valet Parking Dreams

This past weekend, I got the chance to live out my Glitter dreams and meet one of my favorite idols: Mariah Carey. Mariah is one of my all-time favorites—she's legend status in my book—so the opportunity to see her perform her Mariah #1 To Infinity show at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas on closing night felt like a dream come true. Even with all of the gambling, soup dumplings, and visits to the Versace store à la Nomi Malone, Mariah’s performance was still the highlight of our trip to Sin City.

Last year, my good friend Alex Aikiu met Mariah, and her team invited us to see her live. Needless to say, I was pumped to join him for the last performance. The opening of the show was epic and started with Mariah singing “Vision of Love,” one of my favorite songs. Mariah and Boyz II Men’s “One Sweet Day” is my karaoke go-to, so that performance was a must. I was also pretty excited for Mariah to sing “Hero,” although her modern-day rendition of “Fantasy” can only be described as incredible.

After the show, we got to chance to meet the singer and she was the nicest. Mariah was down to earth, funny sweet, and beautiful (with a delicious voice, of course). The only person who was more excited to meet Mariah than I was was my mom, aka PopoWendy. I first introduced my mom to Mariah with the song “Vision of Love” and when she met Queen of the High Note, she told her that I've been listening to her since my teenage years.

Technically, Mimi and I go way back.

Scroll through the photos above to see more photos from Humberto’s recent trip to Las Vegas to see Mariah #1 To Infinity.

Alex Aikiu, Mariah Carey, my mom, and I.

Me and Mariah

The only person who was more excited to meet Mariah than I was was my mom, aka PopoWendy.

Our “Butterfly” moment

Alex and my mom playing “Against All Odds.”

My “Hero” at Caesars.

Mariah and I

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Spotted: Chloe Sevigny With Mysterious Man In New Zine

July 30, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Eli Reed Creates Mannequins Out Of Skateboard Boxes

≪ Previous: Humberto Leon Goes #1 To Infinity With Mariah Carey

You can try and deny it, but we’re all guilty of the shameful activity of browsing through the tabloid glossies at the checkout counter. Thanks to unbelievable headlines about insane weight loss, crazed mistresses, and barely-there baby bumps, modern-day society is strapped to these “stories” that magazines like Us Weekly push out.

Which is why Chloë Sevigny decided to take a more tongue-in-cheek approach to the fabrications we read in tabloids. Chloë’s new zine No Time For Love acts as a paper tribute to all of the men in her life. From ex-boyfriends to friends and family members, the zine offers a glimpse into Chloë’s private world… the only catch is you’ll have to guess who each man pictured with Chloë is. Simply because you can’t have all the goodies, colorful stickers are placed over each man’s face in the pictures, leaving each of Chloë’s guys unidentifiable.

Just the way Chloë wants it to remain.

Shop Chloë Sevigny’s No Time For Love here

Shop Chloë Sevigny’s No Time For Love here and click through the slideshow to see images from the zine.

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Eli Reed Creates Mannequins Out Of Skateboard Boxes

July 30, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Pssst....You Deserve A Beauty Bonus

≪ Previous: Spotted: Chloe Sevigny With Mysterious Man In New Zine

If you head into the men’s store at the Opening Ceremony New York location, you’ve probably noticed some stiff fellows hanging out in various corners in the store—both wearing styles from Eli Reed’s Spring/Summer collection. While these two guys aren’t necessarily as lively as the models used in Reed’s recent lookbook, the story behind them is just as fascinating as fabric shopping with Reed near Skid Row.

We couldn’t help but fall in love with Reed’s block installations, and the story behind his initial idea to create them all ties back to his first encounter with sculptor Marisol Escobar. “One day, my mother and I went to the Whitney Museum of American Art and we saw a sculpture called Women and Dog by Marisol,” says Reed. “For some reason, the piece really spoke to me. I loved how the artist painted a family on those random blocks and how detailed the clothing they were wearing was painted on.”

Marisol’s classic sculpture prompted an inspiration session between Eli and his mother where they decided to put all of the extra cardboard freebies lying around his house to good use. “We decided do the same thing and make ‘mannequins’ out of the boxes I use for shipping clothing as well as skateboard boxes that get sent to me.”

The whole project turned out to be a true mother-son bonding moment.

“I put together the outfits I wanted to use and my mom painted them onto the boxes,” says Eli. “We got to collaborate on the whole project from start to finish.”

Nothing brings the whole family together like trips to the Whitney and reimagining skateboard boxes as sculptures.

Shop all Eli Reed here

Designer Eli Reed in front of his installations at the 33 Howard Street location. Photos by Zander Taketomo

From left to right: Eli Reed Roses Western Long-Sleeve Shirt in black, Checkered Trim Chinos in black, Don’t Worry Tee in white (available in stores), and Checkered Trim Chinos in white

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Pssst....You Deserve A Beauty Bonus

July 29, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: 6 Summer Dresses That Do More Than Impress

≪ Previous: Eli Reed Creates Mannequins Out Of Skateboard Boxes

It’s hard to keep it cute during the summertime. No matter how much you want to draw on the perfect cat eye or opt for a statement lip, the deafening, sweaty heat makes most of your beauty routine seem futile.

We want to combat the heat’s war on beauty, and have enlisted our friends at Estée Lauder to create a limited edition, collectible makeup bag full of our favorite classic products. Bedecked in our signature interlocking hand print, the bag features everything you need to keep it cool, no matter what the temperature is outside: Advanced Night Repair Serum, Modern Muse Perfume, Pure Color Envy Lipstick in the party-ready shade Envious, and even an OC-printed hand mirror.

The best part? The bag is free with any $500 purchase in-store or online*. Of course, this is only while supplies last, so if you’ve been holding off on, say, the OC Pre-fall dress of your dreams, now is as good a time as ever.

*Offer applies to US orders only.

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6 Summer Dresses That Do More Than Impress

August 2, 2015, 9:00 pm

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Sometimes, picking a summer dress that’s perfect for morning mimosas and nighttime cocktails can be as hard as securing reservations at your favorite brunch spot on a Saturday morning.

With OC’s never-ending supply of dresses, the options are endless. Dressing up and dressing down shouldn’t be hard, which is why we’re sharing six dresses that are perfect for a summer day-to-night transition. Whether paired with Opening Ceremony Criss Cross Sandals or Carel Leather Boots, these easy dresses acts an effortless outfit from daytime to night.

Finalize your brunch plans for this weekend and make sure you’re booked up through the nighttime. No mid-day outfit change needed.

Click through the slideshow above to see our favorite transitional dresses that are perfect for any time of day.

From left: Kenzo Soft Crepe Mineral Sleeveless Dress in multi, Carel Estime Patent Leather Boots in black, Opening Ceremony Lotus Mini Dress in coral, and Rachel Comey Dahl Embroidered Heels (Items not linked available in stores and online soon).

From left: Suno Multicolor Striped Dress in black multi, Opening Ceremony Luna Shiny Leather Criss Cross Sandals in black, Toga Pulla Flocky Print Dress in blue, and Opening Ceremony Box Calf Round Heel Pointy Toe Bootie in black.

From left: Alexander Wang Bias Cut Slip Dress in military, Rachel Comey Dahl Embroidered Heels, Opening Ceremony Swiss Chard Twisted Seam A-Line Dress in black multi, and Opening Ceremony Box Calf Platform Oxford in black/blue.

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Off The OC Sales Floor And On To The Dancefloor

August 2, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Opening Ceremony And Kodak Present An Homage To Analog

≪ Previous: 6 Summer Dresses That Do More Than Impress

Just because our Opening Ceremony sales associates clock out after their shifts doesn’t mean the community feel ends after the stores close.

This past Saturday night, OCNY’s Mariah Ruff (a.k.a. Ruby Riot) and OC at Ace Hotel’s Qiana Roberts (a.k.a. Low Qi) performed and DJed at Brooklyn’s Bar Below Rye to a crowd of onlookers...and other Opening Ceremony family members, of course. Simply because we’re never ones to let a good moment to support up-and-coming talent pass, we couldn’t resist buying a few beer-shot combos and joining in to watch the performances.

Click through the slideshow above to look at photos from the night. You might start to feel as if you’re one of the OC staffers.

Photos by Patrick Spears

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Opening Ceremony And Kodak Present An Homage To Analog

August 3, 2015, 9:00 pm

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Long before the days of instant gratification and waiting a mere few seconds for a photo to load on our timelines, there was a period where the simple anticipation and excitement of waiting for film rolls to develop made the photo reveal even more satisfying. For Opening Ceremony’s Fall/Winter 2015 collection, we decided to revisit these nostalgic emotions with the help of our friend Spike Jonze.

For our Fall/Winter 2015 collection, Opening Ceremony looked back to the archive film photos from Jonze’s personal collection. The pieces in the collection splice photos of Spike’s friends Chloë Sevigny, Björk, and Kim Gordon, as well as BMX rider Mat Hoffman and behind-the-scenes photos of the Beastie Boys. But they were missing one very important film element. “Looking back at all of Spike’s photos, there was a lot of Kodak film used,” says OC founder Humberto Leon. Which is why we also paid homage to the technology brand that has provided film for one of our favorite directors as well as countless generations of photographers.

As part of our collection, Opening Ceremony presents a range of short and long-sleeve unisex printed tees that feature updates to the iconic Kodak logo. The vibrant primary colors normally seen on film cartridge cardboard boxes are instead mixed into a series of tees and graphic prints. In fact, the whole collection is a “Kodak moment,” with the logo running down sleeves, across the chest, and around the neck, letting other photographers know where your film loyalties lie. “I don't want people to forget about the incredible look, feel, and texture of film,” says Humberto. “In this day and age when iPhone photos take the place of bringing a camera, I wanted to remind people to take photos with film.”

While the collection is meant to jog your memory of the days of disposable cameras and darkroom development sessions, it also shares a deeper meaning of living in the moment and remembering it forever. Says Humberto: “It’s a simple reminder to not always take the easy route out and to enjoy the present.”

Shop all Opening Ceremony men’s and women’s

Short-Sleeve Kodak Logo Tee in black and Kodak Crewneck Sweatshirt in white multi (items not linked available in stores and online soon).

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Venice Beach Is An Attitude

August 3, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Do “It Colors” Really Exist?

≪ Previous: Opening Ceremony And Kodak Present An Homage To Analog

Although LA has sunshine all year round, there is something about summer that brings a renewed sense of freedom and exploration. When I first envisioned an area of LA as a backdrop for an OC summer editorial, my mind immediately went to Venice Beach. LA is made up of so many parts that it’s hard to define as a city, but Venice Beach is a microcosm for the chaos and eclectic melting pot of individuals who call it home.

Venice Beach is not just a summer destination—it’s an attitude. Its layered history of urban ruin and wasteland has attracted artists, musicians, skaters, and wandering souls who occupy their own unique oasis. Originally, the seaside plot was envisioned as a Coney Island of the West Coast, built up to be a resort town and tourist destination complete with its very own amusement park. The seemingly deteriorated marsh was transformed into a dreamland, mirroring the cultural richness of Venice, Italy, with man-made canals and gondolas. When the Depression hit America, Venice suffered and was a site of urban decay, greatly in need of redevelopment. From then on the abandoned resort town experienced many cultural revivals and phases of rebirth, specifically in the ‘70s as it nurtured the beginnings of outdoor skate culture.

With one of the most layered identities in Los Angeles, Venice was the perfect place to capture a mix of high and low brands on model/musician Ariel Beesley and her friends. Ariel perfectly emulates the girl of my imagination who finds herself at the start of a dreamy, long summer day—carefree, youthful, adventurous, and open to wherever her surroundings take her. It is the unique array of landscapes, including the skate park, board walk, and bustling beaches, that animates the clothes and mirrors the many walks of life found within Venice Beach.

Toga Pulla Dot Jacquard Knit Cardigan in light blue, Acne Studios Pimlico Skirt in black, Raf Simons Knitted Beanie in turquoise, Acne Studios Casey Feminist Sweatshirt in black. Photos by Tyler Adams; Styling by Casey Rea and Erika Flynn.