Michael Bastain x Uniqlo: Your Perfect Summer Wardrobe Solution

It's been hotter than Hades in the shade in New York and you know what that means: tank tops and flip flops. Ugh. 


But if you're a guy with an office job, you can't exactly rock a board short and $1 thongs, nor can you commit to the 'proper attire'. 


Somewhere in between is the sweet spot and now New York based American Menswear designer and the 2011 CFDA Menswear Designer of the year,  Michael Bastian, just collabed with Uniqlo on a whole range of Summer work wear answers 

Mostly polos, the assortment that also includes button front shirts, tees, shorts and pants delivers considerable style at a fraction of the cost of Bastian's mainline. 

But mostly it just fills a major void for Summer menswear with some structure and oomph 





I liked so many, but the one I sprung for is this retro style with mini paisleys. The navy collar is perfect for concealing perspiration while the white feels crisp and the cotton lightweight 

Genius! Grab some now, from $19.90 http://www.uniqlo.com/us/search/bastian

AG Jeans and Liberty of London Floral Print "The Collette" Chambray Shirt

The soft chambray look is here to stay and with the advent of Spring (FINALLY!) here, it's time to soften up to lightweight, breathable fabrics with florals and prints. 





So how excited am I that this structured number from the AG Jeans' lab with one of my personal faves, Liberty of London, is here?

Cuz I can make that camper shirt, convertible sleeve work, honey! 












And LOVE the button down chest pockets! Yes! 










Linky Link: http://www.agjeans.com/The_Collette__Chambray_Hyde

Estée Lauder Mad Men Collection: Too Pretty for Words

You'll never lose this compact, honey! 

Estée Lauder's limited edition three piece collection launches today and is the second makeup collection inspired by the hit AMC show "Mad Men". 

Make like January Jones or Christina Hendricks in Nail Lacquer in 'Pink Paisley,' See Thru Blush in 'Light Snow,' and Rich, Rich Lipstick in 'Pinkadelic' . 

Perfect vintage wardrobe sold separately. 

Doin' It: Three Beautiful Looks from Duro Olowu Fall 2013

No wonder Michelle Obama and JC Penney both love you! 

Why Can't I Quit You Target Designer Colabs?

It is no secret that I along with most folks am suffering from designer colab fatigue and just when I thought I'd shook it off, Mr. Prabal Gurung has to go and make this chic printed sweatshirt (G'ah! My weakness revealed!!) just a callin' my name

(Child)

While I would argue this looks more 'Givenchy on a budget', until Mr. Tisci does indeed team up with Uniqlo (tell me that wouldn't be hot?!) this sassy topper is where all my pennies will go come February 10th. 

Good thing I got a Target gift card for X-mas. 

Perhaps I Need to Book a Flight to Finland

“We have a very long design heritage,” the [Finnair] spokeswoman said. 

“We really believe that design can make life better.”

No wonder Finnair has chosen to colab with fellow Finnish pop art print powerhouse Marimekko on "tableware, teapots, linens and blankets that the airline will use as part of the three-year deal" and all available for purchase en route and through Finnair PlusShop. 

Says Mika Vehviläinen, Finnair CEO. “Our goal is to become a design airline, and bring our customers unique experiences for all five senses. Cooperation with Marimekko is an important step towards this target. Finnair aircraft will become roving ambassadors of timeless Finnish design and creativity, giving our customers a special experience when they fly with us.”

Wow, you would not be hearing that from American Airlines, honey. 

(Thanks to WWD and Finnair.com for photo, facts and quotes)

Good Advice: Mollie Parnis Didn't Do Fast Fashion

“I’ve always had a theory that good designing doesn’t mean dresses you have to throw away every year. Things shouldn’t go out of date overnight.”

(Model in Mollie Parnis dress from Conde Nast Archive) 

My week has been composed of many classic fashion ladies with quick tongues. With the recent uproar over cheap, fast fashions made in sweatshops, this little nugget from American designer, Mollie Parnis, seems ever prudent.

Banana Republic and Trina Turk Have Gone to the Dogs

And since all the dogs in this promo video for Trina Turk's colab with Banana Republic are from the ASPCA, what's not to love. These cuties are just some of the great four leggeds available to adopt at your local ASPCA or shelter now.

Perhaps colorful silk garments might not make the best bedding though. Just saying.

Comme des Garcons Hearts Coca-Cola

(Photo courtesy of The Rambling)

This remains a pipe dream collaboration as far as I can attain from my brief research, but what a visual!