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Wednesday, June 16, 2010

4-5-6.......Somebody yell cee-lo !!!!!!

DISCLAIMER: The Sophistiques do not condone excessive or abusive gambling but I bet your current net worth, plus future earnings that the feature below wins the creative pick of the week.


Ty Shaw is the creator of the Mr. Talented Bow Tie collection which are made out of actual dice. Each bow tie or broach is hand assembled and rolled before putting together so that each customer will have his or her own unique piece. Mr. Talented's favorite self quote is “life is such a gamble, but everyone is addicted to living”. Another one of his quotes is “please note, I do not want to become famous, I just wanna change the world with art”. Mr. Talented has a website which he showcases inspiring art, design and quotes. You can experience Mr. Shaw's creativity at www.mrtalented.com. Please note the bow ties and broaches can be purchased on his website and 50% of the proceeds go towards helping the children of Haiti.









MRT "Cruella de Vil" Bow-tie


MRT "Karl Lagerfeld" Bow-tie


MRT "Basquiat" Bow-tie


The BIG Apple Broach



So do I hear any wagers ?




Mo'Betta


Mo (Mo'Betta) & Oz (Young Euro) a.k.a. The Sophistiques

Cheers!!! Mr. Ralph Lauren (BRONX STAND UP!!!)


“It makes me sad because I’ve never seen such... such beautiful shirts before.”
Daisy Buchanan née Fay in The Great Gatsby


The Bronx kid makes good. Ralph Lauren has been officially recognized by the Council of Fashion Designers of America for this, the third time. He has been awarded the America's Most Popular Designer Award for 2010. This is yet another well deserved milestone for DeWitt Clinton High School's Ralph Rueben Lifshitz (his birth name).

Mr. Lauren grew up in Moshulu Parkway in the Bronx and was the son of a house painter. He attended what is now Baruch College (my alma mater, GO BEARCATS!!!), served in the US Army, and worked as a salesman at Brook Brothers before launching POLO, his own neckwear line and store in 1967. The rest, as they say, is history.

I've been a BIG fan of Mr. Lauren's FOREVA!!! Ralph Lauren didn't design clothes. He molded an image and a lifestyle. His line screamed at the world "BY NO MEANS WILL I EVER BE DEFINED AS AVERAGE OR ORDINARY!!!" I painted the walls of my room with Ralph Lauren Paint's "Historic Crackle". I sported Ralph Lauren POLO golf balls, golf glove and straws hats, 10 years before I ever picked up a golf club. I had Ralph Lauren POLO knit sweaters for every day of the week (and that's just for starters).

A few key moments along Mr. Lauren's journey...


1974 - Mr. Lauren provides the wardrobe for the Robert Redford and Mia Farrow remake film adaptation of the F. Scott Fitzgerald novel "The Great Gatsby", setting off a new fashion trend.



1977 - Mr. Lauren strikes again in the Diane Keaton and Woody Allen romantic comedy "Annie Hall". The film gives rise to what would be referred to as the Annie Hall look worn by Diane Keaton in the film.



2006 - Ralph Lauren Polo is named the first official outfitter of Wimbledon.




:50 - Gatsby tosses, what should be Ralph Lauren, shirts into the air (that's what I call heaven).

1:19 - Daisy shares the sentiment I felt when I bought my first Ralph Lauren shirt.


Young Euro

Mo (Mo'Betta) & Oz (Young Euro) a.k.a. The Sophistiques

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Drake Says "You're Very Welcome"


"I'm tryin' be unforgettable"
Drake

The album the world has been anticipating for the better part of the past year is finally here. After a few delays, Drake is set to release his debut album "Thank Me Later". It is easily the most awaited Hip Hop album of the year. So we, The Sophistiques, have laid out a track by track run through for you.

1. Fireworks (feat. Alicia Keys) - it comes off as a remix for Empire State of Mind Part II (that would be Alicia solo version). However, the two do make wonderful music together. (Produced by Crada and Noah "40" Shebib) 3 out of 5 thank yous

2. Karaoke - has an very airy "Sade- like" feel. It's a very relaxing tracking (good driving music). (Produced by Francis and the Lights) 3.5 out of 5 thank yous

3. The Resistance - very introspective song. The emotion Drake put on display is very moving. (Produced by Noah "40" Shebib) 3.5 out of 5 thank yous

4. Over - this is the "I'VE MADE ME IT" song. It has a very triumphant tone as Drake waxes poetic about his success. (Produced by Boi-1da and Al Khaliq) 3 out of 5 thank yous

5. Show Me a Good Time - this Kanye West collaboration, sonically has a lot going on. Maybe a little too much (Produced by Kanye West) 2.5 out of 5 thank yous

6. Up All Night (feat. Nicki Minaj)- this collaboration with Nicki Minaj works very well. Boi-1da does a swell job on the production. (Produced by Boi-1da) 3.5 out of 5 thank yous

7. Fancy - a well balanced song. Swizz Beatz on the chorus adds energy to an otherwise laid back track and T.I. only does laid back (even when it's excited). (Produced by Swizz Beatz) 3.5 out of 5 thank yous

8. Shut It Down - Drake and The-Dream croon out on this one for a very sexy piece work. The-Dream influence is undeniable here. (Produced by Noah "40" Shebib and Omen) 4 out of 5 thank yous

9. Unforgettable (feat. Young Jeezy) - this song is powerful. It leads off with a hypnotizing Aaliyah sample. Young Jeezy really steals the show here. (Produced by Noah "40" Shebib and Boi-1da) 4 out of 5 thank yous

10. Light Up (feat. Jay-Z) - this is a true blue traditional Hip Hop song. Jay-Z delivers on the track. (Produced by Noah "40" Shebib and Tone Mason) 4 out of 5 thank yous

11. Miss Me (feat. Lil Wayne) - A valid party song. Drake and Weezy get you to the dance floor with this track. (Produced by Noah "40" Shebib and Boi-1da) 4 out of 5 thank yous

12. Cece's Interlude - this is R&B Drake attempting to get those panties. It's well put together. (Produced by Noah "40" Shebib) 3.5 out of 5 thank yous

13. Find Your Love - this Kanye West collaboration comes of much better than "Show Me A Good Time". (Produced by Kanye West) 3.5 out of 5 thank yous

14. Thank Me Later - a perfect closing for an enjoyable album. Timbaland flexes his musical muscles on this track. (Produced by Timbaland) 4 out of 5 thank yous

Bonus Track - 9AM In Dallas - it sounds like a freestyle, but what you you expect from a bonus track. (Produced by Boi-1da) 3 out of 5 thank yous

All in all, Drake's "Thank Me Later" does provide a very enjoyable and worthwhile ride. It certainly doesn't disappoint. So, we collectively say "Thank You, Drake".



Drake's Over



Drake's Find Your Love

Young Euro

Mo (Mo'Betta) & Oz (Young Euro) a.k.a. The Sophistiques

Monday, June 14, 2010

Correct shoes on my feet makes my summer complete.



Its been said that "Shoes are the first adult machines we are given to master". The shoe component weighs heavily in the mechanism of fashion expression. Knowing how to utilize a shoe across different looks, which shoe appeals to certain venues, and of course the tricky one..when to go sock-less is an understanding that comes once the correct fundamentals are understood, applied and practiced. A lesson in meticulous dressing by our resident stylist will be given in the months to come.

As we prepare to enjoy the summer with endless gatherings, and a little PAD (partying all day) followed by some R&R, the correct shoe or shoes is a MUST when accommodating the climate and most important complementing your look. Please pack away or throw away what we call the norms such as your regular sneaker (or sneaker shoe; we know the usual suspects), the carry over shoe ( the shoe made for fall/winter , but you're wearing it in spring/summer), and worst of all is the unofficial all-purpose shoe (worn in the rain, sun, at work and play).

The key is finding a timeless, cost efficient (you can splurge once in a while), style effective shoe. Remember summer is only 3 months, be moderate when thinking of cost and quantity.



1. The Ralph Lauren Polo Lander Chukka Boat
A gleaming waxed canvas construction adds sleek, modern polish to their rugged chukka boot, finished with deck-shoe-inspired lacing for distinctive heritage style. You'll be surprise to know this shoe is selling for $59.00 (regular price) on Ralphlauren.com I really doubt this shoe will be around long. Hurry hurry!!!



2. Sebago Patent Dockslides
Beautiful in brown!! Polo gave you the patent leather black and Sebago gives you patent leather brown. The classic dockside has been upgrade. The shoe is spotlighted with rubber slip resistant soles, rawhide laces and non-corrosive brass eyelets. Genuine moccasin construction wraps the foot in a single piece of patent leather, creating a fit that’s uniquely your own.



3.The Clarke Dessert Boot
An international classic, inspired by the crepe-soled boots worn by British officers in World War II. Soft, supple suede and full grain leather uppers. Genuine plantation crepe outsole delivers all-day comfort. Nature-formed last allows for a natural toe spread. Leather covered EVA foot-bed to keep feet comfortable and dry. Suede lined counter promotes heel stability. You can find these practically anywhere but if you prefer e-shopping then visit Zappos.com.


4.Minnetonka Original Cowhide Driving Moc
This unique style has been found to be amazingly comfortable for walking. With a special long wearing nub bottom, cushion insole and glove soft leather combine for the utmost in comfort. You will not believe the price. Go to www.moccasinsales.com and check it out.





5.TOMS Canvas Slip-On
Created exclusively for Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman. With every pair you purchase, TOMS will give a pair of new shoes to a child in need. Canvas, tonal topstitching, Pleated square toe, elastic gore, padded leather insole. Rubber sole.




6.Havaianas Flip Flop
USA,USA,USA,USA !!!!! Limited edition rubber flip flop created specifically for the world's largest soccer tournament being held in South Africa (17 countries to choose from). An affordable luxury since 1962, Havaianas flip flops are still lovingly designed and manufactured in Brazil. The ultra-high quality of Havaianas is due to a top secret rubber recipe that makes the flip flops as soft as marshmallows.




7. Clae Lemon Suede Wing Tips
A new approach to the traditional wing tip, the Whitman is the modern day urban sophisticate. Canvas and full grain leather uppers, built on a classic outsole, reengineered for comfort resulting in a new direction for a shoe with a rich heritage. This style comes in array of colors at www.clae.com.





8.Air Jordan II Retro
I know,I know, your wondering how and why did this sneaker end up on the list. Well, the Air Jordan II is one of the best styles ever created by the Jordan Brand (smooth and not over designed). If you understand the dynamics of shoes you'll know how to wear these. Trying to work the Jordan II into your wardrobe is not for a novice. You only get one shot to get it right. Wear it responsibly.




9.Paul Smith Mancini Loafer
When you think of summer you think of color, and there is nothing better than a kelly green loafer. Mancini is a loafer with Blake construction made from green lizard leather uppers. These round toe loafers are fitted with a slight heel. Decorative insoles are featured and leather soles embossed with a dragonfly and fern leaf design. Stow bag included.


10.Barker Black Moxham Loafer
Last but sure not the least expensive is the Orange cervo leather with brown trim and white top stitching. Front tie detail and padded insole. Leather sole with 1" stacked heel.Made in the United Kingdom. Disclaimer: Please budget this purchase accordingly, however the shoe is definitely worth it. Neiman Marcus is carrying this colorway.

There you have it, 10 great choices for the summer. Have fun and keep them clean.


Mo'Betta


Mo (Mo'Betta) & Oz (Young Euro) a.k.a. The Sophistiques

Sunday, June 13, 2010

The Beautiful Game - Vive La FIFA!!!


"Sports do not build character. They reveal it."
Heywood Broun (1888 - 1939)

Ghana midfielder Stephen Appiah summed up the total sentiment by stating "This is the first time the World Cup is held in Africa, and all Africa is united." Asamoah Gyan, who scored on an 84th-minute penalty kick for a 1-0 victory in Group D, declared after the match "We win this for you". This momentous occasion has provided a much needed reason to celebrate for a continent that is at times so deep in turmoil.

Siphiwe Tshabalala of South Africa, got the party started on the fist day of action when he scored in the 55th minute to set off wild celebrations at Soccer City. However, South Africa later surrendered a goal to Mexico's Rafael Marquez in the 79th minute and settled for a 1-1 draw before 84,000 joyous fans. This kept alive an undefeated streak by the host nation (14 wins, no losses and 6 draws). This years World Cup promises not to be short on thrilling moments.

Even if you aren't an avid fútbol fan, "The Beautiful Game" as it is known, is undeniably electric. With such personalities and stars as Diego Maradona, Didier Drogba, Thierry Henry, Kaká, Luís Fabiano, Samuel Eto'o, Wayne Rooney, Wesley Sneijder and Cristiano Ronaldo, the 2010 world cup offers plenty to root for.



Alicia Keys 2010 World Cup Opening Ceremony performance.



Black Eyed Peas 2010 World Cup Opening Ceremony performance.



John Legend 2010 World Cup Opening Ceremony performance.




R. Kelly's Sign of Victory, The Official Song of the 2010 World Cup.

...IT'S WORLD CUP TIME!!!

Young Euro

Mo (Mo'Betta) & Oz (Young Euro) a.k.a. The Sophistiques