THORELIE

Thoreli.Eco

2009-03-01T23:44:00.001-08:00

“We must become the change we want to see.”

“You may never know what results come of your action, but if you do nothing there will be no result.”

- Mahatma Ghandi

Earth Hour began in Sydney in 2007, when 2.2 million homes and businesses switched off their lights for one hour. It has grown since then, and the goal for 2009 is to have 1 billion people from around the world switch off their lights as part of an initiative to combat global warming.

Simply put - lights off is a vote for Earth, lights on is a vote for global warming.

This year, Earth Hour will be held globally on
SATURDAY, MARCH 28, 2009 AT 8:30PM - 9:30PM local time.

Please join us, the WWF, and the world in this cause to combat global warming. Leave a comment pledging your commitment to saving the Earth. Just copy and paste:

I, (name), pledge to turn off my lights during Earth Hour.

If you would like to be added to our mailing list, email us at blog.thorelie@gmail.com. We promise we won't spam you =)

Earth Hour 2009 by WWF

Nukerwave

2009-02-12T22:52:00.000-08:00

Just found this great blog Green As A Thistle and I thought I'd share. This lady changes something in her lifestyle everyday to help improve our environment. It's very inspiring. Check out "Green Listed" and read the post about living without a microwave.

Love the idea of living with out a microwave!

Update

2009-02-11T00:36:00.000-08:00

Dear Readers,

Since our launch in the Summer of 2008, we have made some incredible progress. It has Nina and me very excited. Over the months, with no advertising, we've had over 50 unique visitors and at our peak over 15 unique page views a day. With the power of social networks, one can only be optimistic about this seemingly small number. At first, we wondered if people would come to the site, which they did. Then we wondered if our visitors would be able to appreciate the insight we had to offer, which they did. With each passing week, we gained more confidence as we learned more about our users and their response to our blog. Consistent with our other milestones, we've found that our blog plays a vital role in fighting the Six-Two-Sickness, which is in line with our mission statement.

As you already know, the blog has been on an indefinite hiatus since October 2008. Let this post reassure you that Thorelie has not been effected by the recession and will not shut down operations. We have simply been finding new sources of inspiration for the re-launch of our blog. I have been traveling throughout Central Europe while Nina has been re-examining the Los Angeles market. At our last meeting, it became clear that both Nina and I are even more inspired and capable to produce new and exciting content for our fans in 2009. In order to efficiently and effectively do so, we have decided that we must make changes to our operations. As of now, we have decided to split Thorelie into two operations.

The first of which will remain the original Thorelie - the same insight providing company we have grown to be successful at. The second will focus more on our efforts to combat a growing disease that feeds off the Sickness - the shark fin trade. The damage the shark fin trade has imposed on our delicate ecosystem simply can not be overlooked. With our central location in the San Gabriel Valley, an area that is densely populated with Asian immigrants and their offspring, we feel it is our purpose to educate (give insight) those around us about the effects of consuming a particular food product that has such disastrous effects on the environment. We are currently in talks with WildAid on a potential sponsorship opportunity that will enable us to produce marketing tools necessary for our marketing strategies. As a brief preview, we will utilize effective guerilla marketing that will be covered using our extensive social networks in order to maximize our viewing audience and market penetration. We have thoroughly planned our strategies and measurements of success, and will update you on the progress of our conservation efforts.

It has been a long and windy road for the both of us, but we said from the start that we would not look back on what could have been done. We can only look forward and continue to provide our fans with what they have come to us to seek - a cure for the Sickness. This year is promised to be even better than the last, and we thank you for your continued support in Thorelie.

Best wishes,

Thorelie

Help Us Get Business Cards!

2009-01-15T00:45:00.001-08:00

Anti-Raw Denim Movement

2008-10-20T11:14:00.000-07:00

Last week, I went to the A.P.C. store down on Melrose with my fellow blogger. He wanted to scoop up a new pair of A.P.Cs due to the fatal accident of his current pair. After months of wailing and screaming to stand back and to not spill liquids onto his precious jeans, his A.P.C.s took an unwanted dive in the washing machine just before it was ready to be formally processed. It was a sad moment when they came out machine washed and machine dried. I felt bad for the guy but it did provide me with some comical relief after these past 6 months of rants.

At A.P.C., Ricky was able to get a fresh new pair (of course in a size larger since his last pair since they were a bit tight and he received much criticism about them) and I decided to try a pair and see what the hype was about. They were definitely the hardest things to ever bare my skin. I was definitely opposed to the idea of spending $160 on raw jeans that you have to break in for 1 year without washing. Then after the year of wearing in your jeans there's a whole precise process which you have to follow to maintain your jeans. It's just too much work. They hurt + they're time consuming= they cost way too much for all the work & efforts for a pair of staples.

So much work that even A.P.C. issued a "Butler" cut jean. Basically, someone else wears the jean for you and you receive the finished product.
http://hypebeast.com/2008/07/apc-jeans-butler-worn-out/

In the spirit of the upcoming elections I vote NO on raw jeans.

Bearsday

2008-09-30T02:48:00.000-07:00

I wanted to reflect back on this year, spend time with the ones I love & do anything but extravagant for my 2-2, but this weekend was anything but ordinary. I just want to thank all the people who made it so special. Thank you for the many surprises, wishes, cards, drinks, cakes, dinners, & presents. I am truly blessed.

Maps

2008-09-20T17:17:00.000-07:00

The October issue of Reader's Digest recently arrived at my chateau and they've written another great article. It gives a new perspective on maps and what we ordinarily associate maps with. The images are quite intriguing and I thought I'd share.

Read on at
http://www.rd.com/your-america-inspiring-people-and-stories/4-ways-of-looking-at-a-map/article100119.html

Plug

2008-09-11T12:05:00.000-07:00

I've been working with an artist by the name of Sacha Sacket for the past two weeks. He released his first album in 2001 and has since gone on to develop his own label. Golden Sphinx Records came about because of the music industry's lack of concern for smaller, more independent artists. Sometimes if you want something done right you just have to do it on your own.

I get to experience first hand all the work involved in trying to make it big in today's trying times. It's easy to see why so many talented musicians fall short. It sounds cliche, but there really are so many obstacles to go through in order to just even get your name out there. So, support the indie musicians. Just the talented ones though. Don't encourage crap.

Here's his rendition of U2's "With or Without You":

The Hit List - PG 1, Ch 2, Verse 1

2008-08-25T20:44:00.000-07:00

Last week, Colette x Gap revealed some items from their latest collabo. The New York pop up shop is to be open from Sept. 6-Oct. 5. The store will contain items from various designers and artists working with Colette and The Gap and other specialty items. It's a damn shame for the West Coast but they do have a website up and I'm hoping they'll be selling products on there or via Colette's website. Here are some of my favorites.

Alex Mabille

Andre

Moncler

If I could get one item it would definitely be these little space/robot men. The last post was on the Swarovski Phillips Breeze Bluetooth 2.0 and it made its way back with another color scheme from swarovski for Colette x Gap.

More artists/designers to be displayed

Bedazzle Me

2008-08-15T02:05:00.000-07:00

California has put into effect the cell phone law requiring usage of a Bluetooth headset while driving since July 2008, but I of course being the renegade that I am have not purchased one nor do I plan to. I personally find Bluetooth headsets fashionably hideous and I think people just look plain dumb using them. All my opinions changed after setting my eyes on this particular headset. The latest versatile Swarovski studded Phillips bluetooth headset/pendant at the going rate of 200 euros.

Phillips Breeze Black Bluetooth 2.0 Headset

The Man

2008-08-14T14:11:00.000-07:00

Hedi Slimane. The first image that comes to mind when I hear his name is a pair of slim fitting black jeans. Hedi, considered a god in the menswear community for his work with Dior Homme, was as revolutionary as they come. He incorporated his two joys - music and fashion - and fused the cultures together to create a unique series of pieces that changed the direction of mens fashion. Hedi redefined the slim fit, initiated its transition into fashion, and placed punk rock alongside haute couture. Consider it a sign of respect when the legendary Karl Lagerfeld goes on the Karl Lagerfeld Diet in order to fit into your clothes.

"One fine morning I woke up and decided that I was no longer happy with my physique. Although I was overweight, I had gotten along fine and had no health problems. But I suddenly wanted to dress differently, to wear clothes designed by Hedi Slimane….But these fashions, modeled by very, very slim boys—and not men of my age—required me to lose at least eighty pounds....I did not think that it was possible to lose so much weight in one year....[But] in fact, it took me exactly thirteen months." - Karl Lagerfeld

Slimane's Rock Diary is a three-volume set of photos and essays where the equally impressive photographer documents the co-dependent nature between stage idols and their fans, but it might as well be a volume of his own muses. After Slimane left the House of Dior, Kris Van Asche took the daunting task of upholding the Dior Homme brand.

Hedi Slimane Penultimate Spring 07 line:

Kris Van Asche Spring 09 line:

If fashion & the Summer Olympics had a baby..

2008-08-12T22:12:00.001-07:00

Imagine if the Summer Olympics looked like this. How simply fabulous it would be.

with the beautiful Lucy Liu modeling and photographs by Peter Lindberg (Harpers Baazar) in Harpers Baazar August 2008

For more information on what was worn in this shoot:
http://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/fashion-articles/lucy-liu-fashion-olympics-0808

Side Note:
Vietnam's Anh Tuan Hoang, a mere 4'12" 123lbs, brought home a silver medal in Men's 56kg Weightlifting. Congrats!

D. Arse

2008-08-12T21:17:00.000-07:00

This latest controversial "slant eye" photo has made its way to the international internet circuit. It's a photo taken of the Spanish Basketball Team for an ad placed in a Spanish newspaper. Its racist suggestions have been scrutinized worldwide. The Spanish media and press are defending the team's photo and suggesting that international media has made too big of a deal out of this photo and that this photo was taken in good fun and humor.

Like, really? That has to be the dullest, most witless, unworldly humor ever. I wonder why nobody involved with this photo during the process had any remote thoughts as to how negative this might appear. I dare the brave souls who were involved in this photo and those defending it to honestly pose like that in front of a large crowd of Asians. I'm sure they would find it a hoot.

It's NOT Gasol good.

10 Essentials

2008-08-11T00:50:00.000-07:00

One of the things I like about men.style.com is their "10 essentials" section that allows readers to see what their favorite fashion designers consider essential material in their lives. One of my goals in life is to be interviewed for my 10 essentials, but since that probably won't happen anytime soon, here's my list anyway.

1. A.P.C. New Standard Jeans
- The only pair of jeans you need. Really.

2. Paul Smith Soundboard Wallet
- Sharon gave this to me as a Christmas gift. Audio engineering has always been a love of mine since middle school, so when I open up the wallet my mind starts daydreaming. I love the details and presence – business on the outside, party on the inside.

3. Men's Valet Box
- Another gift from Sharon. This valet keeps me organized so that when I’m about to walk out the door, I have everything I need all in one place.

4. Calvin Klein Pima Cotton Boxer Briefs (Black)
- Gives me confidence knowing that I’m covered.

5. Sriracha Sauce
- I was in China for five months and almost died without it. I had to have Sharon’s dad bring it to her during his trip to Guangzhou, then Sharon transported it over to me in Shanghai when she visited.

6. Shiseido Mens Skincare
- It allows me to sleep more peacefully at night.

7. Falke Socks
- Trevor from Douglas Fir Feet gave these to me, and they are now my favorite pair of socks. They are anatomically cushioned and shaped in line with the right and left toe progression.

8. Friends
- I love watching an episode or two at night after a long day.

9. In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan
- It changed the way I looked at food for the better. This should be required reading for all.

10. Fender 50th Anniversary American Series Stratocaster
- There’s a reason why all the guitar greats play a strat. Mine doesn’t get as much love as it should, but it’s still my baby.

08-08-08

2008-08-07T18:32:00.000-07:00

Friday, 8-08-08. A day that will not only be significant in the Chinese community because of its symbolic numerical digits but also the beginning of the Beijing Summer Olympics. Despite all the recent controversy with China's political and environmental issues, it will be amazing to see all countries across the globe come together to join in on festivities.

Anyone who saw the Opening Ceremony can truly appreciate Zhang Yimou's artistry details. An estimated $100mil was spent to display the coordinated visuals. A man with a mind to create such a complex performance is a force to be reckon with. The Opening Ceremony was flawless and a great spectacle to see. Fortunately for Thorelie, we were invited to celebrate and view this magical event at Opening Ceremony LA.

Invites from the New York Store:

I am rooting for Team Vietnam. They brought 21 strong to their 13th Summer Olympics. It's their largest team yet and I'm hoping they bring home at least one medal.

The Return

2008-07-30T00:17:00.000-07:00

Wandering into Chinatown for a leisurely activity has long been off my to-do list. The last time I went into Chinatown for this purpose was circa 1998 to walk around the Dynasty Center and Lido Mall—centers that were considered new and Western amongst the old and dusty shops of Old Chinatown. My leisurely return, 10 years later, is far from these now out-of-date and crowded centers. It is now focused on those dusty and worn shops that I’d once dismissed as far from interesting. Something was different about this place, yet much of it was still very much inline with my memories of the past.

A couple of weeks ago, the mister and I headed west - no not the west of West Hollywood, it is actually east of that, but the west as in west of the San Gabriel Valley - for a Saturday jaunt to what I considered my return to Chinatown and his introduction to it. I say return not in a literal sense, because I come here every 3 weeks to accompany the mister for his hair cut, every 6 weeks for a hair dressing, and every so often to pick my grandma up from her weekly shopping trips. I say return in all its glory and symbolic sense—I have returned! Quite frankly it means I have found a cultural and nostalgic stimulus in returning to Chinatown for reasons other than cutting my hair, his hair or picking my dear grandma up. Oh what a sight it was, quietly nestled amongst the fragrant smell of Chinese food and the mah-jong filled benevolent associations in “Old Chinatown,” are some 20 odd art galleries, and no not the ones filled with cheap replicas of ancient Chinese paintings, but galleries exhibiting new kinds of art—new-aged furniture, neo-avant garde paintings and sculptures and artist collaborative fashion.

We stumbled upon one of these galleries within the first hour of its official opening. The Smockshop is a non-commercial artist run enterprise that travels all over the nation and fortunately enough for us Angelenos this summer it found its home in the heart of Old Chinatown. The shop’s layout is welcoming and open. It is part art gallery, part design studio, and part retail storefront. Artists from all parts of the world are invited to create their own interpretations of one standard and common pattern. I was quite fascinated with the innovation and creativity of the products.

Separated by a room filled with chain-smoking Chinese elders playing mah jong, resides Welcome Hunters, a low key and unassuming old Chinese jeweler shop plastered with messages of “Choose Chinatown”. The store is run by Jason and his girlfriend. He’s a Boston transplant artist turned fabulous fashion hunter of the unique and extraordinary, and she’s a former techie. Entering the friendly shop, the Mister was hypnotically drawn to a pair of KTZ Jungle slip-ons, while I was amazed by the freshness and rarities in the stores collection—Marjan Pejoski and Daniel Palillo to name a few. Unbeknownst to many, Marjan Pejoski is the creative mind behind Bjork’s 2001 Oscar dress/creature—The Swan—despite the notoriety that the dress allotted him, his AW-08-09 collection is quite beautiful, eloquent and completely practical! Welcome Hunters is one of a very select few, if not the only, retailers to carry Marjan Pejoski’s collection in the US, so the trip to Jung Jing Road in Old Chinatown is certainly worth the trip.

Across town (a few blocks, that is) The New High (M)art was on its last leg of its World Fringe exhibition captioned as “An ethno, boho, afro, pow wow” of all that is fringe. Entering the closet-sized storefront/art gallery, we were immersed with pieces from local and international design houses and cultural crafts—Society for Rational Dress (LA), Martin and Quetzal (MX) and Bitone Troupe (AFR), to sample the exhibit. The square footage of the gallery is deceiving—when making your first visit, don’t say you weren’t warned of the density of its exhibits. This pop-up store/gallery changes every 6 months to accommodate a wide range of exhibits. With the diversity of past pop-up stores including Alex & Chloe, Grey Ant, and Brian Lichtenberg, I am excited to see what the New High (M)art has in store next, and this is kept in a shroud of secrecy. Pop-in soon for the next pop-up store.

Chinatown is a diamond in the stones of hipster neighborhoods. There is no sign of commercial colonization as symbolized by Starbucks and Mcdonalds. In this sense it is pretty much untouched with openings of small collective art galleries sound-tracked by the sounds of mah-jong tiles clacking away. It is at peace, balanced by two very different worlds existing quite independently—the hipsters are enjoying the cultural backdrop of the old and the old Chinese grandpas and grandmas could care less of the new clothing boutique operating next door—Chinatown maintains its yin and its yang, and I hope it remains so.

- This post was created by Sharon Zhen, our guest contributing writer. She is currently a freelance trendspotter for Trendstop.com.

No Bueno

2008-07-28T21:07:00.000-07:00

I've made some fatal event decisions within the past two weekends. Glow, a free event held by the city of Santa Monica had art installations displayed around the pier, in the streets of Santa Monica and the Palisades. It was held from 7pm to 7am and we wanted to make it by 12am to view the orchestra on the ferris wheel play a song. We should have known better when it took nearly an hour to get from the exit ramp off the free way to the parking structure, another hour to walk with the crowd to hit the pier and the furthest we reached was Bubba Gumps. To be quite honest we don't even know if the orchestra ever played. We surely were unable hear it. The art exhibits were small in presence compared to the vast amount of people attending. Literally all of Southern California was there. It was estimated well over 200,000 people attended. Highlights of the night were watching a bike meet, from which a long lost friend was found to be a part of, and viewing what seemed like a homeless man's own exhibit made out of candles, paper bags and rants. Low points: watching ONE goldfish in a lowly fish tank being projected outside a restaurant's several small television screens. This event should have been warned with bringing your own mood altering substances.

This past Sunday was American Apparel's 2nd annual flea market. Despite all the flashing warnings all around us, Team Thorelie decided to attend. We had to see for ourselves how devastating it would be. The early entry started at 12pm for an entry fee of $12 and regular admission was for $5 at 2pm. We g0t there no later than 1:30pm and the factory parking lot was full. There was an indescribable line that wrapped around 3 times over. Standing in line, we realized what a great business venture AA launched. In one day alone they made well over $25000 in just entry fees alone. Selling clothes for $1, $5, $10 didn't hurt their revenues at all. After waiting for about 3 hours, thinking we were so close to the finish line we noticed another section of lines 3 loops around, but this time around it was 5 times more condensed. We knew we reached the quitting mark after seeing that spectacle. It wasn't an entire lost cause. Got some good pictures for freelance work, v-neck t-shirt burns, feet strap tans, and had a few laughs, mostly at all of the "fans of high school musical" getting decked out in their best gear.

Here's last years video of the line. This year's line was 10 times longer & we were in it.

2008-07-21T15:47:00.000-07:00

Being the economic capital of China, Shanghai's recent economic success has led to the development of a new social class that has companies of all types from around the world desperately trying to understand this unique market in order to quickly tap into it.

China has always been a place that has a foundation for high fashion - a populuation that insists on luxury goods in order to showcase social status. In Hong Kong, finding a watch store that sells Rolex is almost as common as finding a restaurant. In the mainland, the big fashion houses have become the place to go to when you think you've escaped the working class. It wasn't until just recently that China has seen the likes of avant-garde fashion, as this less pretentious style is becoming more and more accepted by the Chinese people. After the success of the Maison Martin Margiela exhibition in China by the Hong Kong based IT group, which has a growing presence in the Shanghai market as well, Comme des Garcons' exhibition in Beijing is set to further expose China to the other side of fashion.

It's being held at the historical 798 Art Zone, which was once just an area of equipment factories built by Germans. The architectural company behind the buildings was headquartered in the same city as the famous Bauhaus school, and shares many of its characteristics. These factories were then transformed into science and technology centers in 2000, and were rented out as art galleries, studios, and fashion shops because of their Bauhaus appeal. Quite fitting don't you think?

However, while China may be ready for Comme des Garcons, is it ready for the Olympics? I was listening to PRI's The World on KCRW last week and they had an interesting segment on the sustainability of China's rapid urbanization. With the Olympics coming up, it makes you wonder whether selecting China to host the Olympics was the right choice. Sure it's a great opportunity for the world to see how Deng Xiaoping renovated China into the economic powerhouse we see it as today, but the way in which China chooses to display this is rather misleading.

It seems like when a country wants to display its power, it erects a skyscraper. Some have succeeded, like Taiwan's Taipei 101, and some have failed, like the Ryugyong Hotel in North Korea. China's use of skyscrapers falls in the middle. Yes, it has received recent economical success and can afford to line a harbor that seeks to emulate the famous Hong Kong harbor. However, these buildings do not display the detrimental impact on society they have. The rapid urbanization of China has led to an equally rapid deterioration of its environment, which can have a trickling effect on its society. One prime example would be the divergence of a river, formerly used to supply water to farmers of a local village, to fill a lake bed that has been dry for over nine years in order to have a venue for the rowing and sailing games during the Olympics. These farmers are now forced to dig new wells and find new sources of water while we enjoy the water competitions.

The Hit List - PG 1, Ch 1, Verse 2

2008-07-18T20:21:00.000-07:00

A known accident prone, I gave up on buying specs for the last couple of years. There are hardly any problems when it comes to my contacts but there has been a few occasions where I wished I had a handy extra pair of glasses laying around. Recently, I came across these sleek frames made by Deluxe in collabo with Koki for the Fall 2008 line and I absolutely love the clear lens one. The contrast between the black and clear make it look so crisp and defining.

In a way these frames remind of the Chanel 5018 sunglasses that have been photographed on Pharrell, Mk & A, and Nicole Richie. These sunglasses were a hit and hard to get at. They sold retail for $450 and ended up $1000+ on ebay. Who didn't love them?!

Cool kid Agy during the Chanel Ready-To-Wear Spring/Summer 2007 runway

The Hit List - PG 1, CH 1, Verse 1

2008-07-13T19:59:00.000-07:00

Colette x Silly Thing x Chapel of Dawn x Black Wonder HK

I am definitely in a special phase in my life where the love of Hello Kitty has sprung onto me. It really must be because her mouthless face speaks from within her pure heart into mine. Recently this line has been unveiled & here's my MUST HAVE LIST and of course the world has conspired and produced obstacles (which i will over come) to keep me from these goodies, in which all of this can only be found only in Hong Kong during the Black Wonder Exhibition.

SillyThingxHK

HK$3880

HK$1380

Chapel of DawnxHK

HK$580

God, these designers are brilliant creatures.

My favorite sales rep from Opening Ceremony LA recently informed me that they'll be carrying exclusive Sanrio products during their Japan vs. USA Fall 2008 season. I'm looking forward to seeing what's in store.

The ultimate Dream Home.

ESPAÑA!

2008-07-08T23:11:00.000-07:00

The country of Spain has had a lot to celebrate recently - 2008 EuroCup Champions, Rafael Nadal winning at Wimbledon, and Sanfermines, or the San Fermin festival a.k.a. the running of the bulls. I was in Pamplona exactly three years ago during the running of the bulls in 2005 and was just amazed by all the things that went on during my 12 hour stay...truly an experience of a lifetime.

Spain in general is such an exciting country whose residents always seem to know how to enjoy life.

This low-income housing unit reflects the energy in Spain. It's their version of the projects.

Wedding at an old church - classic elegance.

And of course, the bull fights.

The finale...

Response

2008-06-27T12:32:00.000-07:00

The daughter of Kazakhstan's President says the world has become "increasingly effeminate" because of men's new interest in fashion and beauty. Here's the article.

On a side note, here's evidence that men need to be more interested in fashion and beauty.

And here's a picture I took at S.F.'s Pier 39 about a year ago.

Does his ass start at the back of his knee? Seriously, how can you walk?

The Classics

2008-06-27T11:11:00.000-07:00

Chinese people love cheap things.

That was the chaos that was opening day in Shanghai's Walmart. While in Shanghai, I was surprised to find that Walmart actually provides private buses to shuttle its customers around, much like how IKEA is doing it in Brooklyn.

With free transportation, it's easier than ever for people to get their bargain fixes. Little do people know, cheap goods are destroying the earth. I hate to overkill the subject of "go green", but the more we buy inexpensive, throw away-type products, the more they'll pile up in our landfills. I'm not going to get into the whole "Walmart is the devil" discussion because I still go there myself (they have cheap organic strawberries), but this extends to something beyond that and IKEA furniture.

I've always been a proponent of quality and feel that quality is the best money-saving attribute a product can carry. If something is crafted properly with high-quality ingredients, it does its job time and time again, and the cost per use decreases while utility per use does not diminish over time. So, when it comes to clothing, investing a little more in classic pieces from each season that never go out of style means that they'll stay in your closet longer and out of the landfills.

Ralph Lauren is such a visionary because of his ability to place a modern touch on classic pieces. His menswear line contains pretty much the same staples every year - the navy blue blazer, summer chino pant, and the famous polo shirt. They're simple, quality, trendproof garments that get the job done each and every year.

Lakerism 101

2008-06-18T01:53:00.000-07:00

After a frustrating Los Angeles Laker defeat to the Boston Celtics, blame is usually the first response to the great disappointment. There was definitely plenty of blame to go around; refs, coaches, players, VEGAS. But did we, the fans, do our part? Commentators constantly compared the roar of the crowds in LA versus Boston. It was no doubt that the enthusiasm from the Celtics fans had higher noise decibels.

The fans in Boston seemed unified in their Green throughout their stadium. Not one yellow shirt was given out during the finals series to help unite the fans and enhance the home court advantage. Management definitely did not do their part to encourage and support the Lakers.

Where were the true Los Angelenos fans? The crowd was spectacle of whos who to be 'scene'. I don't mind the shining stars but just show your love to the Lakers if your going to attend. Make it heard.

Were prices of tickets a definite issue? It sure was. Who could afford to go to the playoff games? There is no question that all of LA wanted to experience and be apart of the Laker's chance to victory. But, really who was able to go? According to StubHub, the average resale price for Game 3 of the NBA Finals is $844 & $942 for Game 4. That's $330 more from last year's Cav-Spurs Finals. With Gas at $5, not the average Californian fan was able to go root for the purple and gold.

Unable to afford attending games during the playoff series, Laker fans resulted to watching the Laker away games at the Staples Center for a low price of $15 to take in the experience of the Finals.

True Lakerism. Ha just kidding folks.

Well, there's always next year.

Kempt

2008-06-17T22:37:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went out to eat at El Cholo in Pasadena for our friend Sandy's 22nd birthday.

Had an awesome time with these guys the whole weekend. Congratulations to Jennifer for graduating from UCLA!

During dinner, Phi was asking me for some tips on shaving and as I was trying to help him out, Nina started opening her mouth and mocking my shaving ritual. That fool...

I personally never liked the term metrosexual, and am glad that its use is on the decline. It's a misused word that aims to describe a guy who pays a little more attention to his appearance than most others. Is it wrong for a guy to know how to and enjoy taking care of himself? The men's skin care and luxury goods business is booming for a reason - guys are starting to care more about their appearance. I used to pass by this barbershop called α♂ (AlphaMale) in downtown San Diego all the time on the way home from work. Their slogan is "barbershop reinvented". It's a modern barbershop that targets the modern man. I'll probably never be able to receive a hot lather shave because of my inability to grow a beard, or even a mustache for that matter, but it's good to know that if I ever want to relax and enjoy a $40 haircut while receiving complimentary alcoholic beverages and watching a show on my own persoanl HDTV, there's a place for me to do so.

I've been using the Shiseido Men's line for about two and a half years now, and have convinced two roommates and a couple of other friends to do the same. I read this article somewhere that women should take note of a guy's grooming ritual. It's a good chance that if he takes good care of himself, he'll take good care of you, too. I didn't write it, so don't argue with me if you think otherwise.

Live and Learn

2008-06-17T21:18:00.000-07:00

After four years of undergraduate studies, I'm graduating from UCSD this Sunday, June 22. It's a bittersweet feeling to finish such a defining chapter in my life. On one hand, I'm excited to just be done with school (most likely). On the other hand, I'm about to leave behind a place that I called home for four years and the atmosphere that came along with it.

Growing up in the San Gabriel Valley, I wasn't exposed to much. Our public schools didn't foster much creative and intelligent thinking, so you were pretty much on your own if you wanted to stray from the norm. A great friend of mine who I highly respect because of all the wise advice he gave, Eric Bautista, said that the the SGV is like a bubble, or a safety net, that people get trapped under because they like the comfort that it provided. He encouraged me to break the bubble and step outside of it. In these past four years, I saw another world.

I was reading the "What I've Learned" section of this month's GQ magazine and Snoop Dogg brought up an interesting point about society. He went to a predominately white high school where the only students of color were there because of their athletic abilities. He said it was during that time that he learned how to communicate with white people. I grew up in Monterey Park - the first city in the U.S. to have a minority group (Asian) be a majority of the population.
My high school was basically half Asian, half Latino. So, when I found out that my freshman year roommate was white, I was ecstatic for change. Living with him for a year, and in the dorms for that matter, enabled me learn more about rest of the world - the people outside of the bubble I was living in.

This four-year learning experience has been amazing.

Origins

2008-06-06T21:16:00.000-07:00

Stumbled upon Time's "World of Blue Jeans" photo essay. Some pretty powerful images...

"Made in China" has more implications than you think. If you want to get to the roots of it, "premium denim" is premium because of this shift in labor. As denim giants like Levi's and Wrangler outsource their labor to places in Asia and South America, garment manufacturing companies in the U.S. must find some way to compete and are willing to accept the smaller orders of up-and-coming denim brands. These new labels are then able to produce "Made in U.S.A." quality denim. And since many believe Made in U.S.A. > Made in China, $300 jeans were born.

Foodie Fixings

2008-06-04T15:30:00.001-07:00

Summers here & I've been fixated on ICE CREAM. The US ice cream industry alone generates more than $21 billion in annual sales. Ice Cream is a big deal! I'm not usually one for the sweets but this will definitely get my sweet tooth going. Hopefully it'll satisfy your cravings too!

I love GOLDDD! How great is it that Lucas Designs collaborated with Nylon to produce this tasty little treat!

Jeans? GOOD! Ice Cream? GOOD! Jeans&Ice Cream? GOOD! What's there not to like?

Late yesterday night, after having a craving for some sushi, I saw at the local grocery store some TOFUTTI CUTIES, a vegan substitute for ice cream sandwiches and decided to grab a pack. They range from about $5-6 and come in a pack of 8 cute little packs. Hence the Tofutti "CUTIES". After trying them out, they were pretty good. A bit sweet to my liking, probably to disguise any aftertastes. There was a tiny bit of an aftertaste but nothing brutal. As of now, I'll stick to regular ice cream sandwiches. I would still definitely recommend these.

Capitalism -> Consumerism -> Compulsory Corporate Coercion

2008-06-02T16:37:00.000-07:00

Adam Smith, the father of modern economics, formulated the foundation for an economic system widely used throughout the world today known as capitalism. Back then, capitalism was about owning property. Today, we associate it with having the ability to freely create a good or service, selling it to an open market through creative marketing tactics, and achieving the American dream as the world feasts on your goods.

In this era of technology, we are constantly surrounded by information. We take this information and are then forced to make often difficult decisions. Capitalism doesn’t make it any easier for us. With the ability to almost instantaneously start up a company and create products, we are surrounded by an overwhelming amount of choices. Branding becomes a technique used by companies to “help” us in our decision-making process. We become attracted to large logos, bright colors, and clever placement. But once the product is purchased, what purpose does the brand/logo serve?

When it comes to fashion, I like to follow the philosophy of former Dior Homme Classic and current Lanvin head designer Lucas Ossendrijver – "Luxury should be something intimate". Your body should not be a place to either advertise for the company that just received $100 from you for an “80’s inspired” colorful t-shirt, or exclaim your socio-economic status. Thankfully, many of today’s avant-garde designers are creating fashion and style through their unique choice of cuts and fabric, not their logos.

After looking at those jeans, I appreciate my clean A.P.C.'s so much more.

Time Travel

2008-06-01T16:13:00.000-07:00

First off, The Lakers are going to the NBA Finals! Say what you will about Kobe Bryant, but before you do read this article from SI about the mystery behind Kobe's greatness. While I wasn't old enough to remember watching 80's basketball, I'm sure my dad thoroughly enjoyed the Lakers dominance during that era just as I have enjoyed the Lakers' success (mostly) during the past decade. Magic Johnson is still one of my favorite players because of what he did on the court then and what he does off the court now.

IWC is celebrating its 140th anniversary this year. They made history in the late 1930s by producing the first special pilot's watch with large, easy to read numbers and an anti-magnetic system designed to give greater accuracy while flying - the Mark IX.

I love the modern IWC Big Pilot's watch...

but since I have small Asian wrists (I'll have to borrow a chapter from Nina's successful weight gaining regimen), I'll have to settle for the 39mm-faced IWC Pilot's Mark XVI...

to fly this Hermes Helicopter...

whilst wearing these Oliver Peoples for Nom de Guerre sunnys, inspired by musician Roy Orbison who made a name for himself in the 1950s.

And here's a little nostalgia...

Decapitation Nation

2008-05-28T19:57:00.000-07:00

The Decapitator strikes again! The famous London street artist, known for taking billboard advertisements and decapitating the subjects of these advertisements, just took off SJP's head! Although this may seem kind of disturbing, I'm anticipating the SATC movie so much that this anything SATC gets me so excited! I pre-ordered my tickets online today & I'll be having a cosmo tomorrow night right before the midnight showing!

LET THE MATERIALISM BEGIN

2008-05-19T23:05:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting a murse ever since I first visited Hong Kong a little over a year ago. Certain cities allow for men to carry murses. My theory is that cities in which citizens rely heavily on the use of public transportation generally have more men carrying murses because without a car to hold all your belongings, you'll need a bag to carry your things wherever you go. Los Angeles or San Diego is not a city that is murse-friendly.

Wish List:

It's also been a goal of mine to be able to purchase my own watch after graduation. I recently found this great watch by a relatively new brand called Nomos that fits my price range. The calibre is actually designed, developed, and manufactured in-house, which is pretty rare nowadays even with the larger Swiss watch companies. I just love the simple and timeless design.

四川

2008-05-19T22:11:00.000-07:00

The Chinese government, infamous for its media censorship, has finally allowed its citizens to write/blog/text about the aftermath of the Sichuan earthquake – a full week after the magnitude 7.9 quake has left many questioning the relief efforts of its government. Cheers to their temporary and limited freedom of speech and the press, something that many of us take for granted.

Exactly one year ago I traveled to the province of Sichuan during China’s week-long labor holiday in May.

Sichuan is an amazing place with great people, food, and culture. It's tough to see any group of people try to rebuild themselves after catastrophic natural disasters. Help out if you can.

Garbage as Seafood

2008-05-04T23:04:00.000-07:00

Lets clean up the ocean folks...

THIS IS..

2008-05-04T18:44:00.000-07:00

a collaborative series of two dualistic minds also known as THORELIE.

over&out.

What it is

2008-04-30T20:38:00.000-07:00

This is our canvas - an open space where two people aim to independently add life and meaning to a living document. A place where two minds wander but never meet, only to collect here to detail their journeys. The work that goes on before you is without arrangement. The discovery of the end result is our goal.