Instant Gratification: Shop Versace Versus Spring/Summer 2016 (Before It’s Actually Spring)

October 6, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Dirt Magazine Answered The Important Questions

≪ Previous: Meet Amélie Pichard, Self-Described ‘Raw-Mantic’

Have you ever looked back at photos of Elizabeth Hurley’s iconic (and ultra risque) safety-pinned Versace dress and thought, I wish they made a whole collection that looks just like it? Luckily for you, Versace Versus Creative Director Anthony Vaccarello read your nostalgic mind. Spring/Summer 2016 offers up a dark twist on raw ‘90s glamor with eye-catching silver hardware. Since we all know (especially the Versace family) that the LBD is never tied down to a season, this runway collection can be shopped now.

This season is everything you’d hope for in a Versace Versus collection, medallions and leopard print included. Coy cut-outs expose the skin in ways that would make even Naomi or J. Lo blush while silvertone hardware offers a contrast accessory that oozes sexiness with each medallion. Items such as the Zip Down Detail Dress and Half Suit Skirt Dress effortlessly capture the carryover ‘90s business attire while the va-va-voom factor is knocked up another notch in typical Versace house fashion, where the unsaid motto “The higher the slit, the closer to God” rings true in pieces such as the Asymmetrical Flowy Dress.

The only thing that’s changed since Hurley first donned that black dress is this generation’s need for immediate gratification. Luckily, Versace Versus knows how to change with the times while not messing with a good thing.

Scroll through the slideshow to see all the looks on the runway and shop all Versace Versus here

Scroll through the slideshow to see all the looks on the runway and shop all Versace Versus here

Zip Down Detail Dress in black. Photos courtesy of Versace Versus

Sheer Button-Up Floral Shirt in floral and

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Dirt Magazine Answered The Important Questions

October 6, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: The Mirror Cube: Events The Week Of 10/12

≪ Previous: Instant Gratification: Shop Versace Versus Spring/Summer 2016 (Before It’s Actually Spring)

In the early ‘90s, one magazine helped change the scope of alternative publishing during the unpredictable era of print media with a simple question: “Would you chew up a nasty-tasting vitamin B-12 for $5? Yes or no?”

The question, though random, seemed innocent enough. What no one predicted though, was that this survey would quickly spark a growing number of male teen magazine readers during a time where a published voice for young male readers was noticeably absent on magazine shelves. Dirt magazine, brother to the universally-adored Sassy, was the brainchild of young guns Spike Jonze, Andy Jenkins, and Mark Lewman. But to relive the birth of Dirt magazine in full graphic detail, one must go back to the late ‘80s, before Spike, Andy, and Mark were formally connected. Back in those days, Spike was just a 17-year-old Maryland BMX shop worker and Mark was simply a bike-obsessed high schooler from Michigan who wrote fan mail to a 20-year-old Freestylin’ BMX magazine editor named Andy Jenkins, who was based in California.

“My introduction to Mark [Lewman] was pretty cool,” Andy admits. “I kept getting these rambling letters from some 17-year-old kid in Michigan. They were long and all one paragraph, but they were really interesting and funny.”

“Everyday until my stamps ran out, I wrote letters to Andy. After about a month and a half, I got a letter back [from him] and I was freaking out,” says Mark. “This rockstar magazine journalist had written me back and basically said, ‘You’re a freak, but you’re the good kind of freak.’”

After the postcard fan mail subsided, Andy gave Mark the opportunity to freelance an article and told him that if he did a good enough job, there would be a Freestylin’ staff desk out in Torrance, California with his name on it. Mark wrote an article on Mark “The Gonz” Gonzales and Andy made good on his promise almost immediately. And so, at the tender age of 17, Mark packed up his belongings and headed out West to begin his first “big boy” job. Not long after his arrival, the Freestylin’ staff decided they needed another writer to join the team. Enter Adam Spiegel, aka our old pal Spike Jonze.

“I heard about Spike before I ever met him. He had a reputation for being a bit of a wild kid,” says Andy. “The first time we met was when he was 14 and had come to LA on a BMX tour. After he went back home, we started to correspond and he would send back these funny postcards.”

Spike stayed in touched with Andy and the Freestylin’ team throughout high school and during his senior year, they offered him a job. Needless to say, Spike packed his bags the day after graduation and booked it to Cali. “We had a townhouse across the street from the publishing company headquarters,” says Mark. “So we went to Goodwill and got a couch and a dresser and put [Spike] in the spare bedroom.”

The trio quickly grew close, bonding over riding and skating while goofing off in the company warehouse they had 24-hour access to. All of this mayhem quickly lead to discovery. “Spike was a visual kid right off the bat,” says Andy. “He brought his camera and we quickly realized that he was going to be a better photographer than writer,” adds Mark. “He won an Oscar, so we know he can write, but bac

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The Mirror Cube: Events The Week Of 10/12

October 7, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Eating Solo: Murdered By The Mob

≪ Previous: Dirt Magazine Answered The Important Questions

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: Frederick's Wiseman's New York at Museum of the Moving Image
October 9-November 7
Picked by: Rebecca Dayan
What: A screening series of films directed by one of America's leading documentarians, Frederick Wiseman.

Why Go: Frederick Wiseman (Titicut Follies, High School) has made several films about the institutions, people, and places of New York City, exploring an array of subjects such as public education, fashion, and social welfare. Wiseman will also appear in person at select screenings to discuss his work and show scenes from his latest feature, In Jackson Heights.

NY: Frankie Cosmos at Baby's All Right
October 13 at 9pm
What: The young singer-songwriter Greta Kline's band Frankie Cosmos headlines for Bayonet Records x Couple Skate CMJ Showcase.

Why Go: Kline is known for her lo-fi DIY recording style and her fearlessly direct and blatantly honest lyrics like “if you really love me, you will leave me alone.” She will be backed by her band consisting of drummer Aaron Maine (of the band Porches), bassist David Maine (also of Porches), and keyboardist Gabrielle Smith (a.k.a. Eskimeaux).

NY: Chuck Close: Recent Work at Pace Gallery
September 11-October 17
What: An exhibition of new oil paintings by renowned portrait artist Chuck Close.

Why Go: This series of portraits by Close expands on his famous and innovative processes with grid painting, printmaking, photography, and Polaroids on tapestries. Included in his new work are portrait of his friends, such as artists Cindy Sherman and Kara Walker and musician Paul Simon.

LA: Urs Fischer: Fountains at Gagosian Gallery
September 15-October 17
Picked By: Jena Malone
What: A showcase of paintings and sculptures by neo-Dada artist Urs Fischer.

Why Go: This exhibition features Fischer’s fountains as fully operational “active sculptures” that transform the gallery space into an engaging environment reminiscent of a town square. Fischer’s paintings explore traditional still life, portraiture, and landscape painting, but through modern techniques such as assemblage and digital montage.

LA: Kurt Vile and The Violators at The Fonda
October 14 at 9pm
Picked By:

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Eating Solo: Murdered By The Mob

October 7, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Hot Shots: Photographer Lula Hyers Blends Fashion and Activism

≪ Previous: The Mirror Cube: Events The Week Of 10/12

According to restaurant reservation app OpenTable’s analysis of its users, the rate of solo dining excursions have increased by 62 percent in the past 2 years, and we here at OC couldn’t be happier. The long stigmatized ritual of eating alone needs to finally be recognized for the art form it is. After all, solo eating establishments—the truly great ones—require a precise atmosphere. Some are quiet and discreet. Others are unexpected and lie in plain sight. But they can all be difficult to find in a metropolis.

Luckily, New York Times writer Alex Vadukul has taken on the task of finding the best of the best in solo eating around NYC. In this installment of “Eating Solo,” Alex visits the Garment District to eat some some Italian food… and solve a murder.

Previous Eating Solo columns have covered one of the city’s few conveyor belt sushi restaurants, a raw seafood spot in the sooty depths of Penn Station, and an old bistro in SoHo that serves twelve orders of a coveted off-the-menu burger per day.

Establishments, in other words, which gratify the lone eater with a sense of adventure. But sometimes this isn’t enough, and greater spectacle is required. A potential destination for such entertainment exists in an Italian-American restaurant on a small street in the hectic Garment District.

Arno serves Northern Italian fare but their lower level party room has long been host to an interactive crime mystery dinner called Murdered by the Mob. The concept is simple, if not an exercise in how to produce something extremely self consciously kitschy: guests eat red sauce classics while live actors impersonate Italian-American gangsters, who over the course of your prix fixe meal, play out a comedic routine wherein they try to discover who killed their Don.

I was initially surprised to find such a show still existed in Manhattan, but it has the impressive staying power of over 20 years, and on a recent visit was practically sold out. I was seated with a large family from the Bronx celebrating their father’s birthday. Connie Francis’ “Al di La” soared from speakers as actors strutted around the room introducing themselves to guests.

“Hey, I’m Vito,” said a hard-faced actor in a pinstripe suit holding a chubby cigar. The actress who plays the deceased Don’s wife approached tables in histrionics: “Who killed my Paulie? Who did it?”

Over-the-top tropes are the show’s engine, as well as room lights suddenly turning off, and fake guns firing blanks. Character names include Johnny Scudato, Bunny Scudato, Vito Guccione, and Cookie Cavatelli. When describing the Don’s murder, one remarked: “Some said it might have been an accident. It was 22 shots to the chest.”

I found such comedy rooted in high-octane stereotype unappealing at first, and considered joining my tablemates in more red wine, but the humor eventually got me. The show’s detective, in particular, who leads much of the act, is a master of public humiliation – a performer who makes you writhe when he asks new participants to the stage. The actors also rarely leave char

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Hot Shots: Photographer Lula Hyers Blends Fashion and Activism

October 6, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Bundle Up, Buttercup

≪ Previous: Eating Solo: Murdered By The Mob

Before Spike Jonze was, well, Spike Jonze, he was just a rambunctious teenager hanging around the BMX world, eager to document his surroundings. It’s easy to look back on an icon and acknowledge phenomenal work, but what’s not as easy is recognizing that very work before the artist’s name began to speak for itself. In honor of the Opening Ceremony Fall/Winter 2015 collection, which celebrates Spike’s early photography days with a 35mm film camera, we decided to turn the lens on the next generation of photographers.

Our Hot Shots series exposes young photographers you should keep on your radar and lets them take a break from the everyday grind to speak on why photography life is totally worth the long hours and daily grind. Keeping it in the family, we asked the Hot Shots subject to team up and photograph each other.

We first noticed 17-year-old Lula Hyers with her black-and-white protest photographs that she captured at the age of 17 during NYC’s 2014 Millions March. After sparking our interest and opening up a political-art dialogue on the role that art plays in social movements, Lula went on to photograph the Opening Ceremony Pre-Spring 2015 photo journal and more. Below, Lula (photographed by Hot Shots subject Tyra Mitchell), talks growing up in a photography-centric household, balancing activism and fashion in her work, and the online censorship of young photographers.

Shop all Opening Ceremony women’s and men’s

CHLOE MACKEY: What sparked your interest in photography? Has it always interested you, or was there something that led you to discovering your passion?
LULA HYERS: Both of my parents are photographers, so I’ve been exposed to it my whole life. I think that for a really long time, I convinced myself that I didn’t want to go in a photography direction; I wanted to do my own thing. But I think that it was a natural process that I started messing around with their cameras and kind of fucking around with my friends. We would take pictures of each other and they would be super weird and theatrical and staged. I think that’s pretty much how I got started with it, using their cameras and then realizing that I really liked it. People responded well to the photos when I put them on the internet.

Do you feel like your work is influenced by seeing your parents’ artistic process from an early age?
Our work is super different. I don’t even think you could compare the two because of how different we are stylistically. When my Mom was younger, we had similar tastes with the way that we take portraits of women, but that isn’t really her focus anymore. I wouldn’t say that I wasn’t influenced by them though, because their words were very influential. My dad would always tell me, “Get high! Get low! Keep shooting!” and I think that definitely helped me. I developed my style myself, but [my parents] definitely introduced me to how to use different computer programs and cameras.

You shot images of the

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Bundle Up, Buttercup

October 8, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Charlotte Chesnais Brings Jewelry Design Into The Third Dimension

≪ Previous: Hot Shots: Photographer Lula Hyers Blends Fashion and Activism

They say it’s what’s underneath that counts, but with this season’s range of outerwear, we say it’s what’s on the outside that really matters. With a wardrobe staple worn as consistently as your winter coat, investing in one that you truly love is perhaps the smartest move a gal can make.

This sentiment was very much understood during the ‘60s and ‘70s, when well-made statement coats were lusted after and saved up for. Our latest editorial Deviant Ingredient references that era featuring from brands like Yves Salomon, Anne Vest, and Kenzo we’re sure everyone from Diana Ross to Mary Tyler Moore would don in a heartbeat. Upping the ante with everything from hot pink furs that would give Cruella de Vil a run for her money to the perfect bad girl leather jacket courtesy of MadeMe, this season is not so much “out with the old and in with the new” as it is combining the two in the best way possible. The end result is a devilishly fun take on winter dressing. We've all got a hint of minxy vixen hidden within, shouldn’t the pieces that keep us warm reflect/show that?

View the full Deviant Ingredient editorial here.

Left: Raf Simons Embroidered Rollneck Sweater in black, MadeMe MadeMe x Schott Perfecto Jacket in leopard, ikumi Rib Wide Pants in black, Moschino Chain Necklace in red, Tuleste Double Pom Pom T Earrings in red/black/silver (available in stores) Right: Raf SimonsEmbroidered Rollneck Sweater in red, MadeMe MadeMe x Schott Perfecto Jacket in leopard red, ikumi Rib Wide Pants in black, Moschino Chain Necklace in blue, Tuleste Double Pom Pom T Earrings in red/black/silver (available in stores), Moschino

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Charlotte Chesnais Brings Jewelry Design Into The Third Dimension

October 8, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Eveningwear For 24-Hour Daytime

≪ Previous: Bundle Up, Buttercup

French designer Charlotte Chesnais is (quite literally) breaking the mold in the world of fine jewelry. Having gotten an impressive start in the industry as Nicolas Ghesquière’s jewelry designer at Balenciaga, Chesnais brought the momentum over to her own eponymous line with sculptural pieces that the designer creates in clay instead of the average design sketch. Citing legendary sculptors as the inspirations behind the globular hoop earrings, interwoven rings, and bracelets that wrap around the entire hand and wrist, the designer brings jewelry design into the 3rd dimension—as well as the 21st century.

Below, we catch up with Charlotte to talk about about her first collection at OC, crepe making, and finding inspiration in pregnancy.

Shop all Charlotte Chesnais here

Name: Charlotte Chesnais

Hometown: Paris

Astrological sign: Capricorn

Hidden talent: Making crepes (I am originally from Brittany)

Celebrity crush: Catherine Deneuve

What was your style like in high school? Very diverse: Preppy, tomboy, and skater girl...

What's your favorite thing about Opening Ceremony? Humberto and Carol!

What's your current Fall/Winter 2015 collection inspiration? Curved lines and round shapes, I was pregnant when I did it!

What’s your favorite music to listen to in the studio? Varied depending on the mood. Cheesy old french songs, Michael Jackson, Leonard Cohen

Four nouns that define you: Chocolate eater/shoe addict/dancefloor lover/dynamo

Punk Right Earring in vermeil

Saturne Small Earrings in vermeil/argent

Eden Bracelet in argent

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Eveningwear For 24-Hour Daytime

October 11, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Matching Is Overrated

≪ Previous: Charlotte Chesnais Brings Jewelry Design Into The Third Dimension

The London-based foursome behind Galvan know how to cut the nonsense out of eveningwear. Founded from a desire designers Katherine Holmgren, Sola Harrison, Anna-Christin Haas, and Carolyn Hodler had to supply more affordable, practical formalwear for women, the brand creates sexy, clean silhouettes. These pieces not only deliver a timeless glamour not often found in rhinestones and feathers-heavy world of formal wear, but a piece that can actually be worn again and again. “Our lines are clean and modern and the silhouettes are long and lean,” Galvan CEO Katherine explained to OC. “We strive to make pieces that are fashion-forward yet timeless, and that can be accessorized again and again to create different looks.”

Their upcoming Spring/Summer 2016 collection is no different, with silky jumpsuits, high slits, and a tasteful color palette of icy blue, mauve, and copper. The color palette in question, was inspired by the unusual conditions of an Icelandic summer, specifically the midnight sun that reigns over it. “The summer skies’ endless supply of blues and oranges inspired our fresh color palette,” says Katherine. “From the stiff white fabric of the glaciers to the fluid feel of the lava fields, Iceland’s unique landscape has also shaped the structure of our dresses.”

View Galvan’s Spring/Summer 2016 lookbook above, and shop their Fall/Winter 2015 collection here.

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Matching Is Overrated

October 11, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: OC’s Guide To Conquering CMJ Music Marathon

≪ Previous: Eveningwear For 24-Hour Daytime

The most basic “rule” in the fashion world is that the individual pieces in an outfit should go together. Colors should coordinate; fabrics should blend together; silhouettes should complement each other. The main tenant of a good outfit (by popular standards at least) is harmony. For Fall/Winter 2015, Italian brand Sunnei throws this entire notion out the window with a collection aptly entitled “Clash.”

The line of handcrafted menswear pieces pit easy-going denims, bold red stripes, luxe corduroy, and structured velvet against each other in a battle for the eye’s attention. The end result of the pairings is an unexpected one, with looks that come together in a way that challenges the status quo of coordination. Creating a collection that doesn’t follow the conventional rules set by fashion’s current climate is more than just a goal for this particular collection. As Sunnei founders Loris Messina and Simone Rizzo explained to us, it is the overall goal of the brand itself. “The inspiration behind our Fall/Winter 2015 collection is basically an evolution of the whole concept behind the brand. We want to concentrate on the things we are passionate about without being influenced by the trends most commonly followed.”

These design concepts, the duo believes, mark the brand’s transition into the big leagues. “We could easily say that this collection is our first real, full-blown collection,” they explained, “Compared to our first season, this collection sees more thought-out outfits and silhouettes. Each piece is complementary to the others. The fabric choice and range is wider, but this is also probably due to the season as it always gives you the possibility to play with more textures.”

Shop Sunnei Fall/Winter 2015 in stores now.

Vest in mustard (available in stores), Elastic Pants in bordeaux velour (available in stores)

Structured Denim Jacket in denim (available in stores), Elastic Denim Pants in denim (available in stores)

Striped Shirt in cream/bordeaux (available in stores), Elastic Denim Pants in denim (available in stores)

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OC’s Guide To Conquering CMJ Music Marathon

October 12, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: OCTV Presents: A ‘Backstock Moves’ Skate Video With OC’s Backstock Boys

≪ Previous: Matching Is Overrated

New York City’s CMJ Music Marathon turns 35 this year, and the lineup is larger (and more chaotic) than ever. With their knack for packing countless artists of all different genres, locations, and backgrounds into venues scattered around NYC over the course of five days, CMJ has a history of being a bit overwhelming, to say the least.

To keep you from Ubering all over the city in a music festival-induced fever dream, we have compiled a list of our must-see CMJ acts. From relatively undiscovered talents to indie legends ( and even a few members of the OC fam), our list is the sure-fire way to get into the rock-n-roll belly of the CMJ beast.

Tuesday, October 13

Band: Nina Sky
When: 11:00 PM
Where: Arlene's Grocery
Why: If you still blast “Move Ya Body” on your iPod like no one on the subway is listening, perhaps it’s time to revisit the musical twin duo.
If You Like: Lumidee and Missy Elliot

Band: Post Malone
When: 11:00 PM
Where: S.O.B.’s
Why: We haven’t been able to stop blasting “White Iverson” on our office speakers since the song debuted in our Hallelujah Anyway Issey Miyake video. Plus, the opportunity to chant “Saucin’, saucin’, I’m saucin’ on you” along with the up-and-coming rapper in person is a can’t-miss opportunity.
If You Like: D.R.A.M., PARTYNEXTDOOR, Travi$ Scott

Band: Jay Electronica
When: 11:30 PM
Where: Santos Party House
Why: If you’ve been waiting for the long talked-about Jay Electronica album that may never come, here’s your chance to see him perform new tunes like his recently-released “Holladay.”
If You Like: J Dilla, 9th Wonder, Little Brother, Black Milk

Wednesday, October 14

Band: Blonde Redhead
When: 9:15 PM
Where: Brooklyn Bowl
Why: Formed in 1993, the alt rock trio has stood the test of time—and reached icon status.
If You Like: Xiu Xiu and Deerhunter

Band: Tobias Jesso Jr
When: 10:00 PM
Where: Music Hall Of Williamsburg
Why: Don’t leave any opportunity for FOMO open. After the success of his 2015 album Goon, we know in a few months you’re gonna want to say you saw him.
If You Like: Destroyer, Foxygen, a hip Randy Newman

Band: Perfect Pussy
When: 12:15 AM
Where: Santos Party House
Why: Lead singer Meredith Graves brings a feminist spin to the world of hardcore punk, openly speaking out on issues of sex and gender for publications like R

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OCTV Presents: A ‘Backstock Moves’ Skate Video With OC’s Backstock Boys

October 8, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: SZA Is As Legit As They Come

≪ Previous: OC’s Guide To Conquering CMJ Music Marathon

Looking back at Spike Jonze’s 1992 skate vid Video Days, it’s easy to see the early influence that skaters had on the visual artist’s later work. From candid shots of Jason Lee and Mark Gonzales, to behind-the-scenes filming images, the video has since become iconic. Opening Ceremony has always been a company that fosters the work of the skate community, so we figured it would be an opportune moment to spotlight two OC staffers in particular who have been riding the wave of skate vid credibility.

OC’s Tyler Kawaguchi and Galen DeKemper (aka the founder of Dollar Stories) recently collaborated on a brand-new OCTV release, titled Backstock Boys. The short vid channels a day in the life of various NYC skaters, who are all decked out in Opening Ceremony Fall/Winter 2015 collection pieces. Check out the video above to see how the tricks turn out and read Galen’s personal description of the video events below.

Shop all Opening Ceremony men’s and women’s

On the first night with the clothes, Chloe Blythe met me after work and I donned the sequined top to hippie jump back 180 over the chain a few times. On the last night with the clothes, Emily and I met for Sunday night dinner at Wonton Garden and she did her hippie jumps in the same sequined top. Tyler got his switch 180 manny bs 180 out the only time we sessioned together for the clip, a day we went into work early to film Backstock Moves then clocked out with some sunlight to share.

Tyler filmed Jerry for two hours until he got that good rock and roll on the red rock. Shoutouts to the Consolidated Drunks shoes that made my outfit. Tyler's tre flip after his boardslide at Seaport makes the clip really hardbody and shows that this video is bringing it. Tyler’s pants are labeled “women’s,” but you can see in the video that doesn’t matter. James Lee was in on the sessions. I landed my drop in at the Helmsley Building on the fourth try until Mr. Helmsley’s nephew said I was disrespecting his uncle’s name.I told him I was not, and anyways, didn't he see that I just did the drop in? Adam Zhu filmed my nollie crooks with the zoom to good effect. I stood on a candy cane shaped-pipe to film Adam’s double grind. Jason and I skated Breezy Ledge during a Murray Hill session that ended with buffalo wings and a pint at a bar with a “Wing Night.” Then, we headed downtown to go to Shawn Powers' art show and we tried to get a verse from Slicky Boy for the clip, but that didn't end up happening.

When Jason tried his banked gap ollie, a man started to use the spot for his evening stretches. Darkness approached and Jason explained our situation to the man. The man lived in the building and let us live and then Jason came through. Tyler filmed Terrill on a Saturday when I was at work, then sent the clip over and I showed our co-workers. I named a trick “Alligator Ledge” because it looks like an alligator. I did the bank ride front shove after Jason and I ate buffalo wings.

We thought it was nice to have Zach Baker and I's clips with pedestrian reactions consecutive. Right before Zhu landed his back tail line, Slicky Boy waxed the ledge with some natural oil he got from a lady at Tompkins Square Park. It was sck t

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SZA Is As Legit As They Come

October 12, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Thermal Threshold

≪ Previous: OCTV Presents: A ‘Backstock Moves’ Skate Video With OC’s Backstock Boys

I wouldn’t consider my day spent with SZA—known as Solana Rowe to those close to her—a standard interview procedure whatsoever. Speaking with the 24-year-old “not-R&B” up-and-comer isn’t your typical Q&A sesh with a stranger who is way more famous than you. Instead, engaging in any sort of interaction with her is more like a chill sesh spent with one of your girls, smoking a j while dissecting the cultural significance of Cookie’s latest smackdown on Empire. While previous interviews with other publications have accurately touched on her laid-back demeanor, a down-to-earth approachability such as SZA’s can’t be feigned. Which is a plus, as that’s just what the singing chanteuse wants everyone to realize: Nothing about her is fake. Solana Rowe is as legit as they come.

“As human beings, we’re cautious of other people, especially people who are too kind,” says the singer with a contemplative smirk. “Being who you are is important. Once you alter who you are, people will think they were right [about you] the whole time.”

SZA’s legitimacy carries through her entire demeanor and rings true in her voice, the storytelling within her songs, and the spur-of-the-moment Pepper Ann hair dye makeovers. Her thoughts and opinions flow just as freely as the vivid stories she depicts in her songs and the hair dye that’s squeezed straight from the bottle. Since her 2012 EP See.SZA.Run., the “#glittertrap” singer has been building her musical cred with syrupy tracks, jazzy tempos, and a steady stream of guest joints on collaborations some up-and-coming artists would only dream about. But it wasn’t until she became the first female signee of the TDE record label (home to fellow Top Dawgs Kendrick Lamar, Schoolboy Q, Ab-Soul, and Isaiah Rashad), and released her 2014 major label debut, titled Z, where listeners really started to take notice. Tracks such as the fragmented codeine-in-a-tune “UR” and the Lamar-assisted “Babylon” would quickly cement her status as a new alternative (and self-described “not-R&B”) musician to watch. With Z, SZA introduced a marijuana-induced musical escape where enunciated whispers abruptly switch into bombastic examples of restrained emotion with an unexpected beat drop. With the uncategorizable tracks that quickly lead to NPR “Songs We Love” articles and Pitchfork seals of approval, the pressure after Z could only build from there.

Following that major label release, SZA quickly began to notice the changes within herself that come naturally after a Soundcloud-bred artist reaches a new level of accessibility. With fame comes fans, and with fans come damaging social media comments where followers think they know more about the idol than they really do. But with the rare negativity comes the ultra-positive, with followers tweeting at SZA with lines like “If you haven’t seen SZA live, girl. It’s an experience” and “@sza you've become very free lately in your interviews, live performances, even in your pics on IG.” It’s easy to see that SZA hasn’t let any of those rare out of the blue haters bring her down. “I think I was starting to think of everything else happening outside, like Does this person like it? or Is it cool?” questions SZA. “I just had to get the fuck over it and learn how to channel my anxiety in a different way.”

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Thermal Threshold

October 14, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Hot Shots: Photographer Elvin Tavarez Says The Camera You Use Doesn’t Matter

≪ Previous: SZA Is As Legit As They Come

The latest Farmer’s Almanac is predicting that we are in for a bitterly cold winter. And although the annual’s predictions are based on unfounded pseudo-science, it’s best to not take any chances in terms of keeping warm in the upcoming months. To do this, your best bet is not to opt for a giant, puffy coat, but a series of smartly-selected layers instead.

Not only does layering keep you warmer due to body heat being retained between the clothes, but it gives new life to clothes that would normally be unseen under a big coat during the winter months. What better way to give your Marques’Almeida tees, Hood By Air sweaters, and Raf Simons buttons-downs some much-deserved love during the colder times than by wearing them all at once? Top off your creative co-ords with a streamlined coat from Sankuanz or Opening Ceremony and you’ll be just as warm as that guy in full-on mountain climbing gear...except a bit more fashionable.

View the full Thermal Threshold editorial here.

Sankuanz coat; Marques'Almeida oversized T-shirt; Sankuanz long tee; Marques'Almeida jeans (sold out); Hender Scheme sneakers. Photo by Tyler Adams. View the full Thermal Threshold editorial here.

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Hot Shots: Photographer Elvin Tavarez Says The Camera You Use Doesn’t Matter

October 14, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: The Mirror Cube: Events The Week Of 10/15

≪ Previous: Thermal Threshold

Before Spike Jonze was, well, Spike Jonze, he was just a rambunctious teenager hanging around the BMX world, eager to document his surroundings. It’s easy to look back on an icon and acknowledge their phenomenal work, but what’s not as easy is recognizing that very work before the artist’s name began to speak for itself. In honor of the Opening Ceremony Fall/Winter 2015 collection, which celebrates Spike’s early photography days with a 35mm film camera, we decided to turn the lens on the next generation of photographers.

Our Hot Shots series exposes young photographers you should keep on your radar and lets them take a break from the everyday grind to speak on why photography life is totally worth the long hours. Keeping it in the family, we asked the Hot Shots subjects to team up and photograph each other.

You’re not always born with the idea that you’re destined to work in a certain field when you grow up. 24-year-old Queens native Elvin Tavarez originally thought his calling was in graphic design or culinary arts.

Like many of us, that plan changed… Elvin was just lucky enough to figure this out before he decided his college major. He discovered photography through an extracurricular photo club in high school and soon found himself photographing campaigns for New York City-based brands full-time, while still finding the time to offer up a social stance with his visual projects that focus on machismo within the Latino community. Below, Elvin (photographed by Hot Shots subject Christine Hahn), talks discovering sexual stereotypes through photos and the artistic-vision-over-equipment debate.

Shop all Opening Ceremony men’s and women’s

CHLOE DEWBERRY: Hey Elvin! Can you talk a little bit about your introduction to photography? How did you initially get involved? ELVIN TAVAREZ: Well, I've always been creative since I was little. I was originally aiming to become a graphic designer when I was in high school, but then my school got a photography club program and I decided to join it my sophomore year. I didn’t think I was good at photography, but with the encouragement of the club’s teacher, I kept pursuing. Eventually, it grew on me and I started taking pictures of everything.

I left the club with a portfolio and used it to apply to the School of Visual Arts, but I was also on the fence about going to culinary school. It turns out I got accepted to both SVA and the culinary school Johnson and Wales, so I had to make a choice. I went with SVA and I’m so glad that I did.

Were there any photographers that really inspired you growing up?
Not that they were photographers, but my parents took a lot of photos of me growing up, and I used to be obsessed with digging those out. I love looking back at those moments. Professionally, I really enjoy looking at portraits from Diane Arbus, Rineke Dijkstra, Larry Clark, Josef Koudelka, Todd Hido, and Nobuyoshi Araki.

What is it that you like about these photographers? Is it their gritty realism?
Realism is one of the main reasons. They somehow capture reality and romanticize it.

Do you see hints of their work in your own? What inspires you to take photos everyday?
Right now, I’m still personally interes

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The Mirror Cube: Events The Week Of 10/15

October 14, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Denim Jeans (And Stone Gems) Are A Girl’s Best Friend

≪ Previous: Hot Shots: Photographer Elvin Tavarez Says The Camera You Use Doesn’t Matter

NY: Beasts of No Nation with Cary Fukunaga Q&A at Sunshine Cinema
October 17 at 7:15PM
Picked by: Gillian Zinser
What: A screening of the new film Beasts of No Nation with writer-director Cary Fukunaga in person.

Why Go: Abraham Attah won the award for Best Emerging Actor at the Venice Film Festival for his performance as the African orphan Agu, who becomes a child soldier in the guerrilla unit led by the ruthless Commandant (Idris Elba). The film was written, produced, and directed by Cary Fukunaga (Sin Nombre, Jane Eyre, season one of True Detective), who will appear for a Q&A after the screening.

NY: Baby’s Turns 2: Empress of, Moses Sumney, and Special Guest at Baby’s All Right
October 20 at 6PM
Picked by: Anna Gray
What: A concert celebrating the second birthday of Baby’s All Right, with up-and-coming musicians and a two-hour open bar.

Why Go: The evening’s lineup features electro-pop musician Empress Of, whose latest album Me is a collection of complex melodies arranged around her singular vocals. She is joined by folk and soul singer-songwriter Moses Sumney, who Pigeons & Planes called “a breathing instrument that suggests a depth of feeling lyrics can only partially express.”

NY: Scorsese Selects at the Museum of Modern Art
May 30-October 25
What: An exhibition featuring rare film posters from the personal collection of renowned director and film historian Martin Scorsese.

Why Go: MoMA honors Scorsese’s considerable efforts for film preservation with 34 pieces from the Scorsese Poster Collection, including prints from influential films like Max Ophuls’s The Earrings of Madame de… (1953) and Michael Powell’s The Red Shoes (1948).

LA: Ought at The Echo
October 19 at 8pm
Picked by: Jessica Stroup
What: The post-punk quartet will headline in support of their sophomore album Sun Coming Down.

Why Go: In reviewing Ought’s latest LP, Pitchfork describes the band’s music as “indie rock that sounds like how urbanity makes you feel: nervous, antsy, sometimes hostile, yet intoxicatingly vibrant...the album’s relentless drive and uncom

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Denim Jeans (And Stone Gems) Are A Girl’s Best Friend

October 14, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Black Meadow: A Photo Journal by TRUSS

≪ Previous: The Mirror Cube: Events The Week Of 10/15

In a world that’s currently under the denim rule, making your jean pieces and basic sweatshirt-or-tee combo stand out in a sea of blues can seem like a difficult feat. But does it really have to be? For our second Opening Ceremony ReWork collection, we gave classic dark wash denim staples, tees, and sweatshirts a bit of unexpected shine with colorful jewels and crystalline appliqués.

“For Opening Ceremony ReWork, we are excited to look at non-traditional techniques applied to denim,” says OC co-founder Humberto Leon. “The idea of the jewels on black denim came from a love of combining these fun jewel-tone stones, both exaggerated and oversized, on basic denim.”

“Basic” denim gets the OC touch this time around. Dark wash Levi’s denim jeans feature warm-toned jewels on the cuff of the pants while the embroidered jeans display a crystalline appliqué down the front of the pants. A sweatshirt and T-shirt also both feature bejeweled formations throughout each of the pieces.

Shop all Opening Ceremony women’s and men’s

Opening Ceremony OC ReWork Embroidered Pocket T-Shirt in black and OC ReWork Gem Embroidered Cuff Jeans in black (all items not linked available in stores and online soon). Photos by Matthew Kelly

Dries Van Noten Coat, Opening Ceremony OC ReWork Jeans, and Dorateymur Suede Heeled Zipper Booties in red suede

Kim Haller Top, Opening Ceremony OC ReWork Jeans, and Dorateymur Suede Heeled Zipper Booties in red suede

Rachel Comey

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Black Meadow: A Photo Journal by TRUSS

October 15, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: BYOB By KARA: The Doggy Bag, Inspired By Pam

≪ Previous: Denim Jeans (And Stone Gems) Are A Girl’s Best Friend

If the girls at TRUSS are good at one thing (other than making highly covetable totes), it’s putting together a killer photo story. Riding off the wave of last season’s video, which took us behind-the-scenes of a campaign shoot in NYC, TRUSS founders Gillian Tozer and Elise Durbecq set out to place their Fall/Winter 2015 collection in a darkly beautiful visual landscape. The duo enlisted photographer Romain Duquesne and headed to the English countryside. The resulting photo journal, entitled Black Meadow, is as dark and whimsical as the OC-Exclusive bags themselves.

Below, the girls catch up with Romain to talk about how this magical story came to life.

Shop all Truss here

TRUSS: At the beginning of summer, we had dinner in Soho and went to the McNally Jackson bookshop to look at magazines for inspiration. That’s when we found the first issue of Unconditional Magazine and your story! You were still in Australia at that point, right? What were you working on?
ROMAIN DUQUESNE: Yeah, I was there until the beginning of August. The last few months were such a blur. In between working on a variety of editorial and commercial work, I was preparing for the move while making sure I spent enough time with my all of my mates before I left.

How would you describe your approach to photography? Photographing women in particular, which is what originally attracted us to your work.
To be honest, I don't really think I have an exact approach for how I do things. I mostly react on instinct and whatever is inspiring me at the time. I have such a short attention span, which can be great in some ways as I get bored easily and always want to mix things up and try new things. However, I do have a way of photographing women, which has stayed with me for a while. I definitely prefer showing the strength of a character even if the subject doesn't see that in herself. I also find the casting process to be really important and try to get involved with that as much as possible. The more I do this, the less interested I am in conventional beauty and so I try and find a girl who has something a little extra.

When we got in touch with you, you had just moved to London. What are some unexpected differences between Sydney and London?
The move has been a complete challenge, but so far I really love it. As for unexpected differences, I totally expected the vibe I've entered. I think Australia has a very commercial aesthetic, which is why I wanted to based out here in London. I do miss the beach culture in Australia, but I love how historically rich and diverse [London] is.

The Fall/Winter 2015 collection is super special to us, not just because we created it for Opening Ceremony, but because it’s the first time we worked with the hardware on the bags This collection looks very different from what we’ve created in the past, so it was important that any editorial we produced to support it also felt different. This is why we wanted to work with someone completely new and, if possible, not in New York! So London was perfect. What’s the fashion photography atmosphere like in London?
I've found that there is a strong work ethic here and it’s an industry where up-and-coming talent is really given a chance. I think that individuality is really respected and supported here, which is amazing. Alongside the business side of fashion, it's so important to have the support for the creative side, which I feel is abundant here.

Tell us about your process

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BYOB By KARA: The Doggy Bag, Inspired By Pam

October 15, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Meet Matthew Dolan: Indecisive Netflix Viewer And Lover Of All Things Denim

≪ Previous: Black Meadow: A Photo Journal by TRUSS

BYOB by KARA is a (build your own bag) pattern series designed by the NYC-based handbag label. In each feature, designer Sarah Law sits down with creatives both Opening Ceremony and KARA are obsessed with to design a unique bag based on necessity, inspiration, and, of course, personality. The pattern and instructions are then shared via WeTransfer to provide others the opportunity to create the bag at home. All materials should be something you can buy yourself, and if not we’ll provide alternative recommendations. And oh yeah, we strongly encourage adding your own personal touch.

For the series’ second installment, we hooked up with Pam (@pamlovesferrariboys), the e-famous pup with killer style, a dedicated Instagram following, and the answers to all your problems. Designing for any on-the-go gal is no easy feat, but factoring in that Pam is one of the canine variety made this design challenge unlike any we had experienced before.

Inspired by the ‘90s (and Pam), an era responsible for making wearables chic, the Doggy Bag is made from three pieces of fabric. Below, we sit down with Pam and KARA founder Sarah Law to talk about the doggy bag design process, being comfortable in your own skin, and the state of four-legged fashion.

Shop all KARA bags here

CHLOE MACKEY: How old are you? Where are you from?
PAM: I am five and was born in Oregon, but moved to So-Cal when I was 13 weeks old.

What made you start you advice column? Did you always have the gift of helping people through their boy problems?
PAM: I have a pretty good grasp on how the world works, so it was a natural progression.

What are your favorite hobbies, other than having girl talk?
PAM: Hunting and fashion.

You seem to love being a French Bulldog. What makes your breed the best around?
PAM: French bulldogs aren't necessarily the best. I love being in my own skin and I think people can see that.

How did you and [KARA’s Sarah law] get into contact with each other?
PAM: I got an email from Sarah the owner. She must have seen me online.
SARAH LAW: My best friend has been a diehard fan of Pam's and introduced me to her page. Since then, I kind of made it a mission of mine to find a way to work with Pam. When we brainstormed the DIY project, it seemed the perfect opportunity!

What was the collaborative process of designing this bag?
SL: Very interesting! It's my first time designing wearables, and certainly my first time designing for a dog. However, it was quite easy as Pam has strong opinions and knows exactly what she wants. I think the result is a bag that showcases Pam's individuality while maintaining KARA's focus on functionality.

Why did you choose the bag you did? And did you have any inspiration?
PAM: I had a vision of a ‘90s Prada bag with larger grommets and waterproof materials...something that was stylish yet practical for me. SL: Pam was clear that she needed a bag that worked with her busy lifestyle and wouldn't get in the way of her daily life. Recently, we've been looking at late ‘90s-era wearables. Once I spoke to Pam and she told me what she looks for in a bag, it only made sense.

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Meet Matthew Dolan: Indecisive Netflix Viewer And Lover Of All Things Denim

October 15, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Have No Fear, The Snap Crotch Is Here: A Brief History Of The Bodysuit

≪ Previous: BYOB By KARA: The Doggy Bag, Inspired By Pam

When i-D’s spring music issue was revealed with Rihanna as its cover star, the magazine news instantly went viral. It’s not unusual to be transfixed with Rih’s outfit choices, but the obsession behind the magazine spread’s looks reached a new level. Immediately, everyone’s next thought was “Who’s responsible for all this denim pieces in the spread?”

The answer? New York-based designer Matthew Dolan, a recent Parsons graduate dedicated to bringing denim sourcing back to the States. Although his name was unknown at the time, his designs quickly became part of the fashion world’s denim takeover. With statement-making, oversized denim pieces, bringing the New-To-OC Fall/Winter 2015 collection to stores was a no-brainer, even before we saw Rihanna in it.

Below, we catch up with Matthew to talk American denim, karaoke ballads, and...puppies?

Shop all Matthew Dolan here

Name: Matt
Hometown: Danvers, Massachusetts / Sydney, Australia
Astrological sign: Pisces
Hidden talent: Karaoke ballads
Celebrity crush: Rihanna
What was your style like in high school? Not very cool. A few particular outfits involving overalls and bootleg jeans that I always wore comes to mind.
What's your favorite thing about Opening Ceremony? The culture and American denim
If you were to do another job besides designing, what would it be? Something to do with art… or writing... or puppies
What’s your favorite music to listen to in the studio? I get very obsessed with listening to one song on repeat
Four nouns that define you: Treat lover, deli coffee devotee, indecisive Netflix viewer, pup obsessive

Click through the slideshow to see all products from Matthew Dolan.

Oversized Detailed Military Jacket in camo and Detailed Cargo Pants in camo

Detailed Oversized Jacket in indigo

Distressed Split Hem Fringed Jeans in bleach denim

Oversized Button-Up Shirt in indigo denim

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Have No Fear, The Snap Crotch Is Here: A Brief History Of The Bodysuit

October 15, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Libby Black’s New Exhibit Is A Window To Her Logo-Obsessed Soul

≪ Previous: Meet Matthew Dolan: Indecisive Netflix Viewer And Lover Of All Things Denim

Donna Karan, Hugh Hefner, and ‘60s designer Claire McCardell have more in common than the average bodysuit-wearer might imagine. While decades, gender, and ideals separate these iconic figures, there’s one thing that unites them... A leotard with a snap-able crotch. Before your imagination runs wild, let us further explain the birth of the bodysuit.

The first version of the bodysuit (originally called a maillot) was popularized by the legendary Parisian trapeze artist Jules Leotard. The name “leotard” was developed several years after his death, and needless to say, the one-piece-wonder stuck around. From ballerinas to Parisian showgirls, leotards became an onstage staple. The trend carried over to the States on Broadway stages in New York City during the early 1900s.

Don’t let the skin-tight article of clothing fool you; bodysuits are a lot more revolutionary than one might think. While there might not be scientific proof, it wasn’t long after the leotard found its way to the United States that women finally won their right to vote in 1920. This victory didn’t stop there. With this new socio-political triumph, women began to dress less conservatively and the bathing suit evolved more into the form of the bodysuit, revealing more parts of the body than ever before. Less than 30 years later, Playboy founder Hugh Hefner capitalized on this female revolution, with the legendary uniform of the Playboy Bunny. These new uniforms were the epitome of sex and power. Bunnies weren’t the only ones that could get in on the action. In the ‘50s and ‘60s, sirens such as Bettie Page and Bridget Bardot also began donning the sexy one-piece looks.

American designer Claire McCardell, saw the practical side of the bodysuit. (Hello? It ain’t easy keeping your shirt tucked in!) McCardell introduced styles that could be incorporated into everyday outfits, coining them “bodyshirts” to reflect their more conservative nature. Even men wanted in on the perfect shirt-tuck and began to incorporate the one-piece outfits into their everyday looks.

With the ‘80s, came Olivia Newton John music videos and a new pairing of neon workout leotards with tights and sweat socks. Designers such as Donna Karan saw the potential in making the aerobic-gear craze chic. In 1985, Karan became the first high-end designer to introduce the bodysuit to the runway. With her “Seven Easy Pieces” concept, the designer described the seven clothing items that every woman should have in her closet. And of course, one of these essentials was the bodysuit.

So for all you Beyonce fans out there, we’re sorry. Queen Bey isn’t the mastermind behind the bodysuit, she’s just responsible for bring it back... with a vengeance.

Scroll through our tribute to the bodysuit to see how up-and-coming designers’ own twists on the bodysuit. From the sleek designs and soft fabrication of Alix to the more conservative offerings courtesy of Marta Jakubowski, bodysuits are coming for your closets this season.

Veronique Leroy Long-Sleeve Bodysuit in black. (all items not linked available in

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