Charged Up: Opening Ceremony x Samsung

November 9, 2015, 9:00 pm

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The blending of technology and fashion—and vice-versa—has been an important principle of Opening Ceremony since we were founded in 2002. OC is passionate about partnering with technological innovators to bring fashion into the 21st century. Today, this tradition of ingenuity continues with the launch of our collaboration with Samsung.
 
Featuring prints from our Spring/Summer 2016 collection, Opening Ceremony x Samsung gives you the option to deck out your S6 Edge+, Galaxy Note 5, or “Battery Pack” in a colorful floral. “We wanted to create designs that complement and enhance the Samsung devices and their sleek curves, while infusing an Opening Ceremony feel with favorite prints from our Spring 2016 runway collection in special color ways,” says Opening Ceremony co-founder Carol Lim. “We love the idea of personalizing mobile devices to reflect individual style.” 

Next-generation devices deserve a next-generation look, and the partnership of Opening Ceremony and Samsung is sure to deliver both.

Shop all Opening Ceremony x Samsung here

Watch the Double Tap video editorial here
Opening Ceremony for Samsung Printed Galaxy Note 5 Case in blue multi, Opening Ceremony for Samsung S6 Edge+ Case in blue multi, Toga Archives Taffeta Shirt in white, Sara Lasry Double Slide Pearl Ring in 18k gold, and Venesa Arizaga Slim Band Ring (all items not linked available in stores). Watch the full Opening Ceremony x Samsung video editorial here. Photos by Isabel Asha Penzlien; syling by Kindall AlmondOpening Ceremony for Samsung Printed Galaxy Note 5 Case in pink multi, Opening Ceremony for Samsung S6 Edge+ Case in pink multi, Issey Miyake Bee Coat in 52 yellow, and Uribe 18K gold-plated cuff. Opening Ceremony for Samsung Printed Galaxy Note 5 Case in blue multi, Opening Ceremony for Samsu

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Hot Shots: Photographer Tyra Mitchell Says The Youth Needs Proof

November 10, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: We May Have Found Designer Marta Jakubowski’s Hidden Talent...

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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.

Since arriving in New York City, photographer Tyra Mitchell—or Tyra the Zombie to those keen to looking at dope photographs on social media—has been making a name for herself in the competitive creative industry. For the past year, Tyra has been steadily climbing the ranks, premiering her deeply-personal film photographs at JARS NYC exhibitions and later curating her own Girl Artist Takeover exhibition, which cast a light on fellow young female artists of color. “There were numerous feminist-influenced art movements going on [at that time], but I had always wondered why there were no girls of color being represented,” says Tyra. “So I just took the initiative.”

This general curiosity and personal drive has carried over into her photographic ambitions. Since her New York City exhibit debut(s), Tyra has been shooting both film and digital photographs of SZA for photo editorials while hitting the runways (and streets) to cover New York Fashion Week for Opening Ceremony. Even in the midst of all of these new work opportunities, Tyra’s passion remains more than artistic—it’s socio-political and admittedly-aspirational for the youngins. “I’m just doing my part by making others aware that there are more awesome, creative young women of color out there,” says Tyra. “It’s also important to think about the generations below me. I would have loved to have someone to look up to who looked like me and was successful at doing something I also loved. The youth needs proof.”

Read all of the proof in our interview with the photographer below.


Shop all Opening Ceremony women’s and men’s

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CHLOE DEWBERRY: When did you first discover photography? Was there a specific person or moment that inspired you to pursue photography?
TYRA MITCHELL: I began shooting when I was really young. I just remember always having a camera in my hand. When I was a kid, my mom had me involved in every sport and after school craft program you can think of, but something about photography always stood out to me. I loved that I was able to preserve a

We May Have Found Designer Marta Jakubowski’s Hidden Talent...

November 10, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: The Mirror Cube: Must-See Events The Week Of 11/12

≪ Previous: Hot Shots: Photographer Tyra Mitchell Says The Youth Needs Proof

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Since graduating from the Royal College of Art in 2014, London-based designer Marta Jakubowski has gained experience from fashion houses such as Hussein Chalayan and Alexander Wang. The experience shows in each of the pieces the up-and-coming designer creates. In-demand fabrics blend with atypical shapes to create a theme that’s darker than it first appears. For Fall/Winter 2015—her first collection at Opening Ceremony—Jakubowski looks to the phenomenon of constant connection and loss, where cracks appear at “emotional” parts of the body— such as bodysuits, trousers, and dresses. Below, we chat with the designer about hidden talents, high school style, and her crush on Macaulay Culkin.


Shop all Marta Jakubowski here

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Name: Marta Jakubowski
Hometown: Toruń, Poland and Mainz, Germany
Astrological sign: Aquarius
Hidden talent: It’s so hidden, I haven’t found it yet
Celebrity crush: Macaulay Culkin
What was your style like in high school? Tracksuits in different colors
What’s your favorite thing about Opening Ceremony? THERE IS SO MUCH! I remember going to the shop in New York during my lunch break while I was interning for Alexander Wang. I loved everything and applied to work in the shop when it first opened in London. They never hired me, but it's so nice to be apart of it now!
If you were to do another job besides designing, what would it be? An FBI profiler, like Agent Starling in The Silence of the Lambs
What’s your favorite music to listen to in the studio? Michael Jackson and Tupac
Click through the slideshow to see all products from Marta Jakubowski. Pinstripe Velvet Dungarees in black Gap Velvet Trousers in pink Flared Sleeve Cut-Out Bodysuit in black Flared Cut-Out Turtleneck Dress in black

The Mirror Cube: Must-See Events The Week Of 11/12

November 11, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Coach Fall/Winter 2015 Presents Major Couple Goals

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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.

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NY: Lonely Places: Film Noir and the American Landscape at Museum of the Moving Image
November 13-20
What: An extensive retrospective of American noir films from 1945-1960 that spans the genre’s array of dark and dangerous locales.
Why Go: Just in time for ‘Noirvember,’ this series is the perfect survey of the film noir genre, featuring classic entries and neglected gems like Out of the Past, Kiss Me Deadly, Nightmare Alley, and Nightfall.


NY: Grimes at Terminal 5
November 16 at 8pm
Picked by: Anna Gray
What: The Canadian-born singer-songwriter and producer tours in support of her new full-length release, Art Angels.

Why Go: Art Angels is Grimes’s first LP since 2012’s Visions, and it’s had the honorific of “Best New Music” bestowed on it by Pitchfork. The endearingly eccentric and awkward Grimes recently headlined the Guggenheim International Gala, and her dancers and friends will join her onstage for this Hell’s Kitchen show.


NY: Njideka Akunyili Crosby in The Beautyful Ones at Art + Practice
September 12-November 21
What: The exhibition showcases a collection of new large-scale paintings by the Nigerian artist.

Why Go: This show acts as a complementary extension to the Hammer Museum’s current Nijdeka Akunyili Crosby show, and there’s only one week left to see these eight paintings on view.


LA: An Evening with Patti Smith at The Orpheum Theatre
November 16 at 7:30pm
Picked by: Jena Malone
What: Musician, poet, and author Patti Smith discusses her new memoir, M Train, in DTLA.

Why Go: M Train is Smith’s follow-up to the lyrical, moving—and hugely popular—Just Kids, and she’ll be in conversation with novelist Jonathan Lethem. Tickets include a signed copy of the new book, and Smith’s reputation as a raconteur guarantees a night of great storytelling.


LA: Alvvays at Echoplex
November 19 at 8:30pm
Picked by: Soko
What: The Toronto indie rock band play Echo Park

Coach Fall/Winter 2015 Presents Major Couple Goals

November 12, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: A Friendsgiving At Babu Ji Is Something To Be Thankful For

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Take a walk through the Tompkins Square Park dog park on any Sunday, and you’ll likely notice a hoard of plump dog owners coddling their stout bulldogs or curly-haired bohemians fawning over their poodles. The phenomenon of the canine mini-me is nothing new, BBC even released a psychology study that aims to identify why humans choose dogs that look like, well, them.

But one pairing similarity that isn’t studied throughout Ivy League universities is the common circumstance of couples who dress alike, and sometimes even look alike. And while we might not be Harvard professors, we do have first hand knowledge that couples (both intentionally and unintentionally) tend to leave our stores with the same product. From uptown male-female pairs who are prone to wearing the similar chinos to skater couples who share their Vans, the trend is as real as the love that each couple projects (on Instagram and in real life).

But we get it. Everyone knows that after you spend a significant amount of time with someone else, you start to mirror that person’s mannerisms and personal style. Luckily, the twin tendencies never have to die, as we understand this notion. Coach’s Fall/Winter 2015 men’s collection has leather accessories and outerwear staples that have us reaching for serious #couplegoals. So we made sure to put in an order for a wide range of sizes that range from extra small to large sizes.

So whether you’re playfully arguing over who gets to wear the Coach shearling jacket out for drinks or who’s bringing the black leather backpack to the office, just let Coach play cupid with all of you and your significant other’s winter needs.


Shop all Coach at our brick and mortar locations. 

A Friendsgiving At Babu Ji Is Something To Be Thankful For

November 12, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Channel The Finnish Youth With AALTO

≪ Previous: Coach Fall/Winter 2015 Presents Major Couple Goals

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Thanksgiving came early this year in the form of an intimate Friendsgiving dinner hosted by Opening Ceremony and our friends at Nordstrom. Right in the heart of Alphabet City, the Babu Ji restaurant housed a gathering of close OC family and friends—including a reunion with OC alum Olivia Kim, who now acts as Vice President of Creative Projects at Nordstrom.

Timed in unison with the newly-opened Pop-In@Nordstrom x Opening Ceremony shops at numerous locations across the nation, the dinner also acted as a family gathering for guests to try new festive foods as opposed to the standard turkey meal. Featuring an array of dishes courtesy of husband-wife team Jessi and Jennifer Singh, Babu Ji’s guests were quickly as stuffed as the Gol Gappa appetizers. After a cocktail hour consisting of Indian street snacks and Yoghurt Kebab, guests were seated and proceeded to munch on Indo-Chinese style cauliflower, Tandoori chicken, and curries. The night was topped off with Kulfi, a housemade pistachio ice cream pop consisting of cardamom and honey.

During this season of giving, the joining of the Opening Ceremony and Nordstrom families showcased the main reasons to be thankful: delicious Indian food in the fall season.Photos by Neil Rasmus at BFACarol Lim, Olivia Kim, and Humberto Leon Shawn Roche and Vanessa ArizagaJennifer Singh and Jessi Singh Gol GappaStella Greenspan and Madeline Poole Ash L'Ange, Jay Massacret, Carrie Imberman, Maryam L'Ange, Amy Poncher, and Nima Nourizadeh Yoghurt KebabBrie Cross and Brian Phillips Humberto Leon and Jenn KrouseCarol Lim, Adam Selman, and Carrie Imberman Tandoori Chicken Olivia Kim Maryam L'Ange and Olivia Kim Olivia Kim and Phil Oh Max Lamb and Adam Selman Humberto Leon, Gemma Holt, and Max Lamb Carol lim, Olivia Kim, and Humberto Leon Papadi Chaat 

Channel The Finnish Youth With AALTO

November 12, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Meet The Staff: OC Ace Hotel

≪ Previous: A Friendsgiving At Babu Ji Is Something To Be Thankful For

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AALTO founder and designer Tuomas Merikoski works overtime as both a fashion mastermind and a rave doctor—which is a term we just coined. With the Paris-based designer’s Fall/Winter 2015 designs, AALTO is the perfect prescription for any case of FOMO on Finnish rave culture of the ‘90s. This season, tees printed with photos of Finnish teens making out run wild throughout the collection, while the slogan “Young Heroes,” emblazoned on comfy tops, pays tribute to the youth’s invincible attitude.

Read our interview with Merikoski below, where he discusses his own take on youthfulness and photographer Jouko Lehtola’s rebellious work.


AALTO is available in all brick and mortar Opening Ceremony stores.

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Name: Mr. Tuomas Merikoski
Hometown: Paris, France
Astrological sign: Cancer
Hidden talent: Out of the many talents, being a discrete dancer
Celebrity crush: Jennifer Lawrence
What was your style like in high school? Vintage Hip hop / Trip hop
What's your favorite thing about Opening Ceremony? The youthfulness and relaxed atmosphere
What's your current Fall/Winter 2015 collection inspiration? “Young Heroes.” It depicts the Finnish youth of the ‘90s, with their freedom and taboos. It’s also inspired by Jouko Lehtola’s photography.
If you were to do another job besides designing, what would it be? Chef de cuisine or a curator
What’s your favorite music to listen to in the studio? King Krule, Bassoradio, Melting Hearts, and Kings of Leon
Four nouns that define you: Passionate, a true fake calm, instinct-seeking decision maker, and observer
 

Meet The Staff: OC Ace Hotel

November 15, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Maison Standards Is The New Standard

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Tucked between a sub shop and an oyster bar on 29th and Broadway lies Opening Ceremony at Ace Hotel, OC’s tiny boutique-style store. Besides carrying your favorite brands like Acne Studios and Alexander Wang, OC Ace is also home to more than a few surprises. Whether you're in the need for toothpaste or shampoo, a gift for a friend (or yourself), or just a welcome new addition to your travel-ready wardrobe, OC Ace’s knowledgeable—and fashionable—staff are here to help you find whatever it is that you’re searching for.

Click through the slideshow above to see The OC at Ace Hotel staffer’s picks.


Opening Ceremony at Ace Hotel
1190-1192 Broadway
New York, NY 10001
MAP“It’s an ongoing battle between feeling like a ghost or a witch, but I think my 'dark lord' vibes pulled through in the end today. I love layering the same color but using different textures. It makes items pop in a very subtle way.” - OC's Riley. Opening Ceremony Ribbed Jersey Short Sleeve Maxi Dress in black, Patrik Ervell Alpaca Pocket Sweater in black, and Opening Ceremony Isa Pebbled Leather Metallic Heel Boot in black. Photos by David Loring-Lee“I put my outfit in the hands of 'The Boss,' Simon. I knew he would style me in items that I would not usually try on, so it was a fun experiment that took me out of my comfort zone. The Tuleste earrings are my new favorite in-store item! I give Simon an A+ in the styling department.” - OC's Tayne. Acne Studios Nella Trash Suit Jacket in light multi, Acne Studios Jensen Suede Chelsea Boots in black, Kenzo Shadow Flowers Silk Jacquard Pants in bottle green, and Tuleste 2" Maribou Pom Pom Earrings in white“My life has always been a sort of streetwear tornado so I felt Cav Empt was only right for me. A few hints of Belgium and Sweden from Raf Simons and Our Legacy make a strange mix that works in a weird futuristic way.” - OC's Fernando. Cav Empt Logo Hoodie in tan (available in stores), Cav Empt Sweatshirt in black multi (available in stores), Our Legacy Marital Attraction Relaxed Trousers in black, Raf Simons Knitted Beanie in black, and Adidas Stan Smith Sneakers in navyOC's Simon w

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Maison Standards Is The New Standard

November 15, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Say You’re Welcome

≪ Previous: Meet The Staff: OC Ace Hotel

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After learning more about production while working to analyze consumer needs for brands like Pierre Hardy and Barbara Bui, Uriel Karsenti decided to take ethical fashion into his own hands. Launched in Spring 2013, the Parisian entrepreneur’s brand Maison Standards is an upscale clothing and accessories line he started with the intention to sell luxury basics at a fair price.

The brand has remained true to this mantra, with wardrobe essentials such as a cotton Poplin Striped Shirt that sells for $110 and wool cashmere scarves that start at the low price of $75. With a minimal understated aesthetic that carries throughout the various pieces in the collection, this winter season is living up to Maison Standards’, well, standards.


Shop all Maison Standards here

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Name: Uriel
Hometown: Paris
Astrological sign: Capricorn
Hidden talent: Drawing
Celebrity crush: Chloë Sevigny
What was your style like in high school? Grunge, with flower print Kenzo shorts
What's your favorite thing about Opening Ceremony? The smart and edgy mix of cultures
What's your current Fall/Winter 2015 collection inspiration? White, denim, and ‘80s mod
If you were to do another job besides designing, what would it be? Traveler or pianist
What’s your favorite music to listen to in the studio? Fats Waller
Four nouns that define you:​ Parisian, vegetarian, entrepreneur, daddy
Click through the slideshow to see all products from Maison StandardsMaison Standards Poplin Striped Shirt in blue stripe Sweatshirt in black Sweatshirt in navy Poplin Rounded Collar Shirt in white Oxford Shirt in blue

Say You’re Welcome

November 15, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: The History of Minnetonka

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This past Friday, Kinfolk 94 paid it forward with You’re Welcome, a one-night multimedia group show that centered around the theme of identity in the landscape of NYC. Featuring work in a variety of mediums, the show was curated by—and features new work from—artist James Evans, as well as pieces from Rebekah Campbell, Gia Seo, Antwan Duncan, and Joe Richard. From James’ graphic paintings that feature ambiguous characters “interacting” on nondescript steps to Gia Seo’s vast collage of designer dustbags on display in a variety of differently-sized frames, the show was essentially New York to the core.

“In a city like New York, there is so much constant stimuli that it’s impossible to spend any real portion of time here without changing in some tangible way,” says James. “I believe that’s a good thing. In fact, I think that’s why a lot of people I know moved here in the first place.”

And, you know, to put on dope art shows in the heart of Williamsburg with like-minded artists. We catch up with the artist to talk graphic design dissatisfaction and the notion of identity below. 


CHLOE DEWBERRY: This exhibit deals heavily with the notion of identity. What moment first sparked the show’s inspiration?
JAMES EVANS: I feel like identity is one of these big vague terms that we are pretty much constantly grappling with to some degree or another. We spend so much time defining who we are, but it’s still something that can be sloppily defined by other people, by lifestyle, location, whatever it might be. In a city like New York, there is so much constant stimuli that it’s impossible to spend any real portion of time here without changing in some tangible way. I believe that’s a good thing. In fact I think that’s why a lot of people I know moved here in the first place.

Is this a continued theme from your Thank You group show? How do the two correlate?
This show is definitely a continuation of the Thank You show that we put on last year. Even as we were wrapping that one up, I liked the idea of doing a follow up called You’re Welcome, making a sort of conversation between the two. In both instances, I thought it would be fun to have some artists I admire work around a single theme for a single night.

Take us behind your work in the show. Can you describe your work process?
For me, painting grew largely out of dissatisfaction with working in graphic design—after a while, staring at a computer gets to feel pretty sterile and mind-numbing. That being said, pretty much everything I’ve learned comes from graphic design so that’s a somewhat pivotal part of the process for me. I generally have an idea I want to pursue, I sketch it up a few times, redraw it on the computer and play with other possible ideas, then finally re-paint it on canvas, checking if my opinions on the colors and composition have changed at all. These pieces in particular were intended to be very stripped down. I was hoping to keep a certain ambiguity in the work and I subsequently found myself focusing on pretty much only one color scheme and minimal details.

What do you hope is one thing that people take away from the show?
I don’t know if there is a specific idea I’m hoping to convey with this as much as a general feeling I would like to get across. Some of my favorite works of art don’t necessarily prompt an idea as much a general inclination, a sentiment people pick up on. The theme for this show was intentionally rather wide-reaching. I wa

The History of Minnetonka

November 16, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: “It’s From The Past, But Still Feels Like The Future”

≪ Previous: Say You’re Welcome

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In 1946, Minnetonka was founded by Philip Miller, and the company’s moccasins quickly started gaining traction in roadside gift shops across the US. Originally retailing for as little as $3.80, Minnetonka’s earliest moccasins caught the attention of Americans who had developed a love of the open road. It wasn’t long until Minnetonka began growing into its own in 1955, when the Thunderbird Moc—complete with its iconic beaded design—was introduced.

Minnetonka earned its spot in pop culture during the ‘60s, where the brand’s classic fringe boots debuted in the summer of 1967 and were quickly co-opted by men and women involved in the hippie movement. The boots are now a staple of the time, fully encapsulating the movement’s breezy style.

This hippie-approved trend remained in the forefront until the ‘80s, when Minnetonka was shifted out of the realm of subculture and into mainstream with the launch of their driving moccasins in 1986. With a design more minimal than the brand’s previous styles and a nubbed rubber sole, the shoe became a go-to for people of all ages and styles.

Today, Minnetonka moccasins remain a symbol of heritage and easy style for people of all ages. This is why Opening Ceremony looked to the brand when searching for an uber-giftable footwear partnership for this holiday season. Referencing classic styles that date back all the way to the brand’s first designs in 1946, OC gives the moccs an update with luxe leather, Swarovski crystals, and beaded versions of the classic OC torch emblem.

Shop all Minnetonka for Opening Ceremony for men and womenMinnetonka catalog, 1949Minnetonka stand at the Oklahoma State Fair, 1952Minnetonka catalog cover, 1958-1959 Minnetonka Driving Moccasins ad, 1990

“It’s From The Past, But Still Feels Like The Future”

November 16, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Maximum Henry’s Maximum Craftsmanship

≪ Previous: The History of Minnetonka

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To the untrained eye, the appearance of Brutalist architecture buildings signifies drab visits to the doctor or strolls through a college university campus in need of some renovations. Ever the visionary, menswear designer Patrik Ervell looked straight into the (hard-to-find) heart of these seemingly harsh buildings and discovered the inspiration for his Fall/Winter 2015 collection.

Brutalism, which introduced the fortress-like exterior and exposed concrete that has since become synonymous with the architecture movement of the ‘50s and ’60s, also signifies a hint at the future for Ervell. “I was looking for something between futurism and nostalgia, and I think that you see that in Brutalist architecture,” says Ervell. “It’s from the past, but still feels like the future. This was the sweet spot I was looking for in this collection.”

It’s easy to see where the inspiration shines through in Ervell’s latest offering. Boxy, layered silhouettes complement the subtle paneling woven throughout casual sweaters. Ervell’s signature muted color palette has a refined touch that’s evident in everything from the outerwear jackets to the selvedge denim jeans and knit accessories. “I remember seeing [Brutalist architecture] a lot in sci-fi movies as a kind of stand-in for what the future might look like,” says Ervell. “Like in the film version of A Clockwork Orange, for example.”

While the influence of the Brutalist architecture movement didn’t last forever, Ervell’s timeless pieces are sure have you covered season after season. Tastes may change, but thankfully, Ervell’s appeal is here to stay.


Shop all Patrik Ervell here Flight Bomber in anthracite, Cotton Rib Mockneck Long-Sleeve Top in white/bamboo, and Wool Crepe Track Pants in dark navy. Photos by Jerry ButtlesPuffer Rain Jacket in white, Cotton Rib Mockneck Long-Sleeve Top in white/bamboo, Selvedge Denim in black stonewashPatrik Ervell Alpaca Pocket Sweater in grey melangeRain Parka in black

Maximum Henry’s Maximum Craftsmanship

November 17, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Perfect Pussy’s Meredith Graves Explains Why It’s More Important To Be Nice Than Punk

≪ Previous: “It’s From The Past, But Still Feels Like The Future”

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Maximum Henry Cohen’s path to creating handmade leather goods was not by any means, a typical one. The designer’s namesake brand, Maximum Henry, wasn’t built upon connections made through apprenticeships or the intern grind, but rather the creative people that Cohen met during his time bartending after dropping out of college.

This out-of-the-ordinary start then yielded out-of-the-ordinary pieces. In a world obsessed with fast fashion and “statement” accessories, Maximum Henry’s belts—hand-manufactured in his Williamsburg studio— offer a bit of understated luxury that can be worn with anything, on any day. Below, the designer talks about Maximum Henry’s founding, his creative process, and what’s next for the brand.


Shop all Maximum Henry here

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CHLOE MACKEY: When did you decide that you wanted to start your own brand?
MAXIMUM HENRY COHEN: After my freshman year at film school, I dropped out and started working at a few different bars in downtown Manhattan and in Brooklyn. There was a whole network of artists, makers, and small business owners that were regulars. As an 18 year old kid I really admired the hell out of them, the freedom their careers allowed them to enjoy, and the culture of the whole scene.

I've always been aware of the items people carry with them everyday and actually had a pretty serious duct tape wallet business in the 7th grade. At work I'd hear people talking about the things they liked and disliked about their accessories. Factoring these opinions in with my own style sensibilities, I started to make my own product. Whenever I had time off of work (early mornings and late nights), I'd be in my apartment crafting pieces to show off to my friends at work. After receiving a positive response, I decided to keep going and see where it would take me.

What drew you to making belts? How did you learn how to work with leather?
I found two different leather workers that I admired and somehow found my way into apprenticeships with both of them. I helped them produce all kinds of things, from leather sandals, bags, key clips, bracelets, and wallets, to belts of all shapes, styles, and aesthetics. I learned how to make leather goods that not only looked beautiful, but would gain character and personality over time.

What is your production process like?
Everything is produced in my studio from scratch. The entire process is 11 steps. The steps include cutting, dying, polishing, branding, and sewing– all of which are done by hand.

How do you see your brand expanding in the future? Are you interested in creating other leather goods?
Maximum Henry is in a really fun place right now. I've been perfecting my staples for the last few years and learning how to scale my process to be able to sell to stores in a productive way. I'm showing in Paris next season, which I'm very excited about. Right now, I'm focusing on my next lookbook and collection. I've made a huge selection of different things for friends, but some of the things I'm considering adding to my collection next season are camera straps, zip pouches, and guitar straps.

Outside of leather work, I've also been learning to make jewelry and I'm hoping to include a small selection of simple rings, necklaces, and bracelets in the upcoming seasons. I also really like making lamps and small home objects, but we'll see where that fits in with everything else.Ph

Perfect Pussy’s Meredith Graves Explains Why It’s More Important To Be Nice Than Punk

November 17, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: The Mirror Cube: Must-See Events The Week Of 11/19

≪ Previous: Maximum Henry’s Maximum Craftsmanship

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When you look closely at the Opening Ceremony Fall/Winter 2015 Girl Collage Print, you see the faces of some of music’s most impressive women: Björk, Julie Cafritz, Karen O, Kathleen Hanna, Kim Gordon, Laura Balance, and the Luscious Jackson crew. In fact, most of the collection, which is a tribute to Spike Jonze’s early-years as a photographer, stimulates nostalgia to a time when music changed lives, stood for something, and most importantly—changed the public opinion. However, as important as it is to look back, we also need to look forward. So we asked ourselves, who is living up to the path that icons like Kim Gordon paved? Easy: Meredith Graves, who acts as lead singer of Perfect Pussy while freelance writing and heading up her record label, Honor Press.

Perfect Pussy is a hardcore group formed in Syracuse, New York. The band members originally assembled to be part of a John Cusack film being shot in their hometown. Meredith describes being on the movie-set as “weird” and an overall negative experience spent in a freezing cold basement. One good thing came of it though: the band, who reunited one year later. So when you ask Meredith how they formed, her answer is simple: “We started as a bunch of nobodies in a small town, and that’s how all good punk rock bands start.”

When Meredith walked into our Soho store, the experience felt more like getting ready with your girlfriend—We immediately started talking about yoga, baking cookies, and clothes. Not what you were expecting to hear, eh? But that’s the problem. We all expect people to fit into certain molds of the culture they represent, and the fact that Meredith doesn’t is what makes her that much more legit.

“It’s actually worrying that hardcore has become so homogenized to the point where everyone is expected to act the same way. That’s the thing with the uniformity of hardcore art, a lot of the bands sound exactly the same,” says Meredith.

“People are just carbon copies of each other, and I used to really want to be that. I would shave my head, never wear makeup, and always wear big combat boots and thought I looked really cool. I loved it, but I changed and wanted to dress differently and it was met with a lot of resistance. When you’re nice to people and want to go on the internet and write about baking cookies or abolishing the prison industrial complex, people get really confused. It’s a lot more important to be nice than to be ‘punk,’ and that should be obvious to everyone.” 

A-FUCKING-MEN.

If you aren’t acquainted with hardcore, don’t let the noise distract you—After all, screaming has never killed anyone. Being “nice” is part of Perfect Pussy’s mission. “We didn’t call our album Say Yes To Love for no reason,” says Meredith. The loud music is a cry for justice, a voice for all the shit we have to be angry about and why it needs to be fixed. It’s one of the many channels she uses to support restorative justice. In simple terms, restorative justice is about taking action and speaking out about crimes committed to yourself and your community. What really triggered Meredith to become an advocate followed a time in her life she felt wronged by her community. “I became a vigilante bounty hunter overnight,” says Meredith. Since then, what motivates Meredith is making sure herself and people from all classes, ethnicities, and sexes get to live, like, really live, which is

The Mirror Cube: Must-See Events The Week Of 11/19

November 18, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: Find A Bit Of Venice In Every O Jour Collection

≪ Previous: Perfect Pussy’s Meredith Graves Explains Why It’s More Important To Be Nice Than Punk

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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.

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NY: In Jackson Heights at Film Forum
November 4-23
Picked by: Aaron Stern
What: Revered and prolific documentary filmmaker Frederick Wiseman's ninth opus set in New York takes a close look at the neighborhood of Jackson Heights, Queens.

Why Go: Frederick Wiseman's docs are nonpareil profiles of social and cultural institutions, and his latest film shines a light on one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the city--a place that's seen change over the years, but has never lost its authenticity and vibrancy. Wiseman will be in person on November 21 for a Q&A after the 4:30pm screening of the film.


NY: Okkervil River at Bowery Ballroom
November 23 at 9pm
What: The Austin-based indie rock band celebrate the tenth anniversary of their breakthrough album, Black Sheep Boy.

Why Go: This is a rare opportunity to see the critically acclaimed album played cover to cover live by frontman Will Sheff and his bandmates. When Black Sheep Boy was released in 2005, New York Times critic Kelefa Sanneh wrote that "Mr. Sheff uses a rickety voice to disguise wild ambition."


NY: Chloe Wise: Full-Sized Body, Erotic Literature
November 7-December 20
Picked by: Hari Nef
What: The Canadian-born, New York-based artist and Mirror Cube contributor has her first solo show in New York.

Why Go: Wise is known for her oil paintings and sculptures, as well as digital collages and video installations. In this exhibition, she explores the consumptive nature of our culture partly through elaborate resin-coated sculptures of decadent arrangements of food. Wise has been profiled in Paper and Interview, and Artsy recently named her one of "10 Canadian Artists on the Rise" at Art Toronto.


LA: Vince Staples at El Rey Theatre
November 24 at 9pm
Picked by: Kilo Kish
What: The Long Beach rapper headlines Night 24 of

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Find A Bit Of Venice In Every O Jour Collection

November 18, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: James White Shows The (Sometimes) Self-Destructive Path To Redemption

≪ Previous: The Mirror Cube: Must-See Events The Week Of 11/19

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In the Italian culture, there’s no relationship stronger than that of your family. That sentiment even boils down to familial design techniques and fashion houses as well. O Jour designer Giorgia Caovilla understands this bond. As the daughter of renowned Italian shoe designer Rene Caovilla, Giorgia is sharing the Italian ornamentation the whole world wants a taste of with her intricate footwear designs.

While her father was notorious for his luxurious high heels, Giorgia quickly noticed that customers had a need for medium-heel shoes. So she gave the people what they want with O Jour, where the heels come in a variety of different heights that can be worn without the eventual need for backup flats. Made of crushed velvet in shades of rich red, lush blue, and a light champagne, the flats and Cuban-heeled shoes also feature Venician-inspired gold scrollwork and crystalline baubles for added effect.

Below, we talk with the designer about the beauty of Venice, “Ugly Betty” high school style, and why she loves Opening Ceremony.


Shop all O Jour here

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Name: Giorgia Caovilla
Hometown: Riviera Del Brenta
Astrological sign: Taurus
Hidden talent: Poem writer
Celebrity crush: MIKA
What was your style like in high school? Ugly Betty!
Wha’s your favorite thing about Opening Ceremony? I love the fact that OC supports small brands and emerging designers, but at the same time there are also the well-known brands. It’s a place where I go to find the latest news on what’s “hot” in fashion.
What’s your current collection inspiration? There’s always a part of Venice in every collection. This time, it’s the Venice Opera House and I was astonished by a beautiful cherub painted on the ceiling. That’s when I started to think about the Spring/Summer 2016 collection.
If you were to do another job besides designing, what would it be? Mother of ten kids!
What’s your favorite music to listen to in the studio? Ray Charles, Giovanni Allevi, Jovanotti
Four nouns that define you: Life-lover, out of the mainstream, steadfast, shameless
Click through the slideshow to see all products from O Jour Loira Platinum Nappa Shoes in sangria velvet Loira Platinum Nappa Shoes in blue night velvet Loira Platinum Flat Nappa Shoes in grey velvet

James White Shows The (Sometimes) Self-Destructive Path To Redemption

November 18, 2015, 9:00 pm

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Intimacy is not easy. Capturing it in a narrative is even harder, which is what makes the film such a feat. “We were covering a lot in a very short amount of time,” says Josh Mond of his directorial debut, James White, which was shot in just 22 days. “What we were trying to achieve was very aggressive.”

James White is the story of the title character (played by Christopher Abbott), a young New Yorker caring for his cancer-stricken mother Gail (Cynthia Nixon), as he slowly self-destructs. The consequences of James’s behavior—partying, running off to Mexico despite being unemployed, lashing out at loyal friend Nick (Scott Mescudi, aka Kid Cudi)—paint a difficult character to root for.

But James isn’t your typical anti-hero. His moments of ruin are seen between moving scenes of James with his mother, as together they are affected not only by her cancer, but also by the death of the man who abandoned them, James’s father. The obstacles he creates for himself are an escape from the frustration and stress of trying to overcome what’s beyond his control. A pivotal scene shows James and his mother struggling to get through a night in which Gail is plagued with a dangerous fever, knowing that help will not arrive until the morning.

James holds her up, cools her down, and carries her to the bathroom. They need each other. They want better for each other. “They were definitely intense to watch behind the monitor, and I know [these scenes] were intense to do,” says Mond. “But it was rewarding because it felt authentic.”

Mond, who also wrote the script, not only displays the beautiful and dark moments of extreme closeness between people, he also forces the audience to be intimate with the characters. There is no space away from James. The only people the viewer sees are the people James sees—Gail, Nick, and his girlfriend Jayne (Makenzie Leigh). Everyone else fades to the background. By the end the viewer shares a closeness with James that lingers beyond the end credits.

We spoke to the film’s writer/director Josh Mond and star Christopher Abbott about the making of the film below.

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ARIA DARCELLA: James’s face is tightly framed throughout the film, especially in the opening scene in the nightclub. What made you want to introduce the character in that way?
JOSH MOND: I thought it was a good way to get inside of his head. It was a good opportunity to not only set up the language, but also to show him in his highest [moment], and what he’s chasing for the rest of the movie. By having him exit in the daylight, it shows the severity of his situation.

Christopher, what was it like doing those scenes with such little dialogue, and so much focus on your face?
CHRISTOPHER ABBOTT: I liked it. In a way, especially with film, you can convey a lot more without words. With looks and feeling, and especially with the camera so close, you can capture thoughts without having them be said.

There’s a lot of maturity in the way James puts his mother first, but he is still incredibly self-destructive. Before you started filming, what kinds of things did the two of you discuss in terms of the portrayal of the character?
JM: Chris and I have known each other for five or six years, and though the movie is not autobiographical, there’s a lot of personal stuff in it. I was raised by a single mother that I was very close with who passed away to cancer. Chris was there during that time, but I was able to really get into my relationship with my own mother, and how important she was, and my own guilt, my own shame. It was an opportunity to be vulnerable with

Stand Up And Speak With DJ Dodger Stadium And Body High

November 18, 2015, 9:00 pm

≫ Next: OC's Gift Guide Is Out Of This World

≪ Previous: James White Shows The (Sometimes) Self-Destructive Path To Redemption

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Everything is better in pairs. Turntable duo DJ Dodger Stadium understands this notion more than anyone. Comprised of LA electronic mainstays Samo Soundboy and Jerome LOL, the pair has teamed up yet for their new album, Stand Up and Speak. And what better way to celebrate a new album full of bangers than with an LP listening party and pop-up shop at OC?

In order to celebrate the release of Stand Up and Speak and a new line of tees from their Body High clothing line, Opening Ceremony will be hosting an intimate in-store gathering at our OC at Ace Hotel location on Friday, November 20th. A select crew will get to listen to jams from the new album while browsing through Body High merch (and popping some bottles) with DJ Dodger Stadium themselves.

Can’t wait until tomorrow for a listening session from DJ Dodger Stadium? Stream their exclusive new Spotify playlist below and read our interview with the pair while you head nod.


The Body High and DJDS event will take place on Friday, November 20th from 4 to 8PM. Follow our Twitter for updates

Shop all current Body High collection here

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CHLOE DEWBERRY: How did Body High come to be? How does the music interact with the fashion?
SAMO SOUND BOY: Jerome and I started Body High four years ago in order to release an EP we made together as DJ Dodger Stadium. We just couldn't see our music really fitting in anywhere else and we felt like we needed to have our own platform to properly describe it. In the beginning, the music interacted with fashion out of total necessity. Selling t-shirts was how we made money to pay for mastering and other label costs. But as time went on, the clothes started to take on just as much creative importance as the music. For us, they are the visual and wearable manifestation of the sound: raw, ethereal, and human.

What's the inspiration behind Stand Up and Speak?
JEROME LOL: The new album is an exorcism. It's an attempt to really break free of pessimism and confinement.

Where do the different graphics come into play? How do you guys go about designing each collection?
SSB: The collections are all designed around specific releases or pieces of music that we're putting out. For instance, the lip hats were for my solo album, Begging Please. This new bleach-printed collection is the clothing accompaniment for Stand Up and Speak. With this stuff, we wanted to make pieces with an almost psychedelic look of defiance. Like fatigues for a rebel sound system.

If you had to describe the new music in one word, what would it be?
JL: Honest

If you had to describe the clothing in one word, what would it be?
SSB: Unrestrained

OC's Gift Guide Is Out Of This World

November 18, 2015, 9:00 pm

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≪ Previous: Stand Up And Speak With DJ Dodger Stadium And Body High

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A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away… your perfect gift-giving solutions were found. This holiday season, Opening Ceremony is back again to make shopping for even your most discerning friends and family a piece of cake (or, maybe pie?). From splurges like the Issey Miyake Bao Bao and Tuleste earrings, to coworker or friend-approved trinkets like a Moschino phone case or Opening Ceremony keychains, our gift guide has you covered—no matter who you’re looking to make smile. We even broke out some all new Opening Ceremony Resort 2016 pieces—like cozy scarves and varsity jackets—to make sure you’re giving out the latest and greatest.

Shop the full gift guide hereShop the full gift guide hereShop Picks For HerShop Picks For HimShop Top ShelfShop CozyShop Bits & Bobs

Gift Yourself With Up to 40% Off Select Brands

November 20, 2015, 7:00 am

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≪ Previous: OC's Gift Guide Is Out Of This World

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Giving someone a gift that they really love is a genuinely nice experience. But we all know what’s even better: buying something for yourself that you really love. We here at OC want you to know that it’s okay to add yourself to your holiday shopping list, and to ease your feelings about it, we’ve even given you a perfect excuse. Starting now, you can take up to 40% off some of your favorite brands, including (but not limited to) Hartono, Alix, and Ammerman Scholsberg.

The “it was on sale” excuse is an infallible strategy for guilt-free self-love, so shop all sale items here.

Shop all sale items for women’s and men’s


*Online markdowns start Friday, November 20th 2015 at 7:00am EST. Sale prices are not applicable to previous purchases or open to price adjustment. Discounts are valid online while stocks last. All sale merchandise is considered 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.
Shop all sale items for women’s and men’s