All the Small Things

As hear Lil Wayne bellow " Dear Lord, you've taken so many of my people/ I'm just wondering why, you haven't taken my life/ Like what the hell am I doing RIGHT?!?!" I can't help but to wonder why I am still here, living....but as I am always listening, so is God. I just recently got my point of refocus. On September 20, 2008 Travis Barker, drummer from band Blink 182 along with long time friend DJ AM, survived a catastrophic plane crash that killed four people.  There is no word on where they were heading but, it is pretty evident that they did not make it. Barker & the DJ suffered third degree burns all over their bodies. The last performer to pass away from from a plane crash was the angel Aaliyah. This made me so thankful to be alive. It also made me realize that I need to do everything that I can, because we never know when the plug will be pulled. Have we also realized that we are alive because God wants us here, he is not finished with us yet, so never quit!  Send your prayers out to Travis and DJ AM. Until next time....-Find your swank. Think insane. Be urbane.

The Outkast tries to fit in

Andre 3000, one half of the super hip hop group Outkast, has always been known to be eclectically intellectual and creatively classic. This time , at age 32, he had opted to turn in his mic and movie script for a pencil. A pencil that designs a vintage 'rebel- gentleman's' clothing line. His inspiration comes from that of the 1930's and the classic, vintage style seen so prevalently in England. He actually debuted his line in London this week at Harrod’s. With a name like Benjamin Bixby, this endeavour is sure to turn heads and empty pockets. I really appreciate the originality of this idea. It is quite clear that art is his profession, not business. He adds value to the old adage, "If you build it, they will come." Until next time...-Find your swank. Think insane. Be urbane.

Super Cool Cinema

Many childhood actors make the transition from Disney to the Dead Zone. What is the Dead Zone you ask? The place where washed up childhood actors are stored until a large network needs a corny actor for a pilot reality show targeting budding dancers, ahem, Mario Lopez & America's Best Dance Crew. Well, beginning with Transformers, Shia LaBeouf, began his official journey from the shadows of the Disney Channel. I don't know if he is giving Leonardo DiCaprio a run for his money yet, but Orlando Bloom should be worried. Don't let Shia grow his hair out! In his latest movie, Eagle Eye, he gives it go with the lazy-unachieving-average Joe- turned to national hero persona again, which is most recently exhibited in the movie Wanted. He played his part very well, and added that sarcastic but witty sense of humor. The ending could have been better, but we can't have chicken & steak right?! The previews made the movie look better than it really was. The depth of the characters is what really made the movie worth while. The plot is thought provokingly scary, so it did not sit quite well with me. Don't let me decide for you though, gooo see it! Until next time...-Find your swank. Think insane. Be urbane.

Politics As Usual

As the 2008 Presidential election rapidly approaches, anticipation is building at the same rate. Anticipation for change, not only in America, but in the world. This election is shaping up to be the most important of our generation. But as hope is on the horizon, evil is always lurking in the clouds...as we understand by the Florida fiasco.

Today on the campus of the University of Cincinnati, when I was speaking to a voter registration representative, I was informed that voters who arrive to vote wearing Obama t-shirts will probably, and when I say probably I mean 100%, will be turned away when it comes time to vote. So save the Obama fashion statements for the runway ladies and gentlemen. The revolution will NOT be televised.

Also beginning on September 30th, 2008 - October 6th, 2008, there will be buses picking up University of Cincinnati Students and taking them to vote, that's right, vote EARLY. Please use this opportunity to change the world. November 4th will be very hectic day, to say the least. Vote early. Please. For your grand children's sake.

"Look at this peacoat tell me he's broke..."

Fall is officially here gents as of this past Sunday. That means its layering time and stylistically that's the best time of year. Lets start on our fall wardrobes from the outside in. Start with a piece like a classic navy peacoat. Peacoats are great because with military origins you know the cut is going to be precise and clean. If you can't swing this J.Crew version, look up your neighborhood Army/Navy Surplus Store for some authentic and just as stylish versions for half the price. One caveat to the peacoat wearer, DO NOT and I repeat DO NOT attempt to wear a blazer underneath, it will hang out the bottom and you will look silly. Instead pair a peacoat with jeans or slacks, a cardigan sweater and button front shirt. Tie is optional, recommended, but optional. Until next time Gents....May the force be with you. Your main man,
-Debonoir

p.s.
Now is the PERFECT time to refer back to my sweater post entitled Get YOUR sweater game up

Are we there yet?!

No...unfortunately we, the University of Cincinnati, haven't even started yet. And when I say start, I'm referring to our 9 month, interactive, annoying jail sentence that is to be served...which is often called COLLEGE. When the weather goes from 85 degrees to 55 degrees in 6 hours, leaves begin to fall, and daylight savings time ends, it is time for colleges on the quarter system to suspend their conjungal visit from normal life and resume their 4 to 5, sometimes 6, year sentence. As you start the year I wanted to give you some tips to help you have a successful first quarter.

1. Ball on a budget while saving money: Do you have a passion for fashion? Do enjoy dressing to impress? Are you also low on cash? Don't bother spending lucrative dinero on the latest Gucci, Louis vutton, or Prada threads. Forever 21 has whatever you are looking for (men & women) when it comes to the latest styles, for a very cheap price. I bought a vest there for $20, whereas at Express they will run you a tab of about $88. Also another way to save money is to use your friend's internet, and when I say friends, I mean your neighbors. I can't really elaborate on how to because of obvious legal implications, but if you have wireless, you know!

2. The early bird catches the worm: Tired of spending $50 at the bar (males & ugly females)? Well club promoters usually have specials before midnight giving away free drinks or mixed drinks for a very low special: $3, but you have to get there early....!!!

3.Make love & good grades....at the same time!: Tired of missing out on all the night you won't remember? Are you also tired of failing two classes a quarter? I have the solution to these problems....simultaneously! During this first week of school examine all your classmates. If you see anyone who is appealing to you, spark a conversation and if you have similar interests, get their contact information. When you all meet up to study in the library, also discuss weekend plans. When you wake up next to them on Sunday morning, get back to studying....so if you fail, your relationship fails,which means...no tail. Simple arithmetic.

Have a good week. Until next time...Find your swank. Think insane. Be Urbane.

I'm Back: BB Geeks eat your heart out

Remember when I gave you that vid of the touch screen Blackberry being shown by the whiny kid who said it was too taxing on him to press down on the screen? Well even if you don't here is an official vid from VZW, enjoy....Its good to be a Blackberry user

72 hours,Still No Power???

While I know that if you are reading this post, you probably have power, so print this blog for the next time you don't pay your energy bill on time or if you decide to go visit Bin Laden anytime in the near future. I have come up with a list of games that are sure to keep you and your colleagues entertained until the power is restored or until the sun comes up.

1.Hide and Go Seek: This is a classic game, that is always entertaining. Instead of the usual block, you'll have a whole city to hide in. I guess we might want to change the name of the game to Find Osama Bin Laden.

2.Kick the Can: I don't how many people in the urban area are really familiar with this game. I actually had never heard of it until my father moved into the suburbs. It is basically a game where everybody hides behind something and one person tries to catch one member of the other team in the act of kicking the can. I know, sound stupid. Try it. For me. or All my homies in Malibu.

3.Star Wars: With no power, this would be the PERFECT time to pull out those Star Wars light savers that you weird uncle bought you 5 Christmas's' ago. Just don't tell that guy on the corner holding his waist line that you're his father, he'll probably son you. And that's not good. He's tougher than Michael Jackson.

4.Spin the Flashlight: You remember that game you played when you were a freshmen in high school? Well, lets tweak that a smidge. Spin the flashlight and whoever it stops on, kiss them. Just make sure you verify what sexual orientation they are first, and their sexual preferences. It is 2008 folks!

5.House Party III: If all else fails, just have a huge house party, powered of course by 20 cell phones music players. But they have to be made in 2020, when cell phones come with moon powered concert speakers. So first go back to the future and steal one of those phones from Tokyo and host the livest House Party in life!!

Now print these instructions to properly enjoy yourself should you have a power failure again. Until next time...-Find your swank. Think insane. Live Urbane.

Thirsty for Electricity?!

Well, I would suggest you call Duke Energy, or you're local electricity provider and fix the problem, pronto! In the mean time, between time Carpe Diem presents: The Final Thirsty Thursdays, September 18, 2008 from 10pm- 2am @ Club Cue 1142 Main St. Cincinnati,Ohio. So go check these gentlemen out for a few hours and enjoy the power. (Yes I meant to rhyme) Until next time...-Find your swank. Think insane. Live Urbane.

If ANYBODY feels you, I feel you!

In my previous post, I spoke about the effects of Hurricane Ike on southern Ohio. Fortunately, I was not in the area when the damage was done, so I did not realize what a monstracity it happened to be. Now that I am back in my community, this is awful. It looks like a hurricane really did reek havoc! No one has power, i'm writing this post from my cellular device. As I was speaking to a colleague from a neighboring university, Miami of Ohio, I was informed that 2,500 - 3,000 were rioting at their president's doorstep until the wee hours of the morning. They were protesting attending class the following morning because of the absence of power. I was later informed that they had to go to school. Keep hope alive homies! Until next time....-Find your swank. Think insane. Be urbane.

G is for Gangsterr

Even though much of southern Ohio is powerless (Thanks IKE!), one never needs an outlet for wireless! By now, I am sure that many of you are with the phrase "The more things change, the more they stay the same." As fashion trends constantly reemerge and disappear, accessories are no different in that aspect. As a child growing up I remember wanting a G-Shock watch more than a new bike or than the popular Air Jordan's at that time. I wanted to be able to go to summer camp, NYSP, and go swimming with my watch on, which was a luxury for the youth of inner city Dayton, Ohio. Now with recording artists like Bow Wow and Pharrell talking about these timeless pieces, how could I not be persuaded to buy one? As far as being worn on an every day basis, I don't know if G-Shock can compete with my Movado. But for now I'll entertain the possibilities of livin la vida loca and purchasing the lime green limited edition time piece. So when you see me out, please don't compliment me. I know, I know...there's no one with a more stunning bravado. Your mother tells me all the time. Until next time. - Find your swank. Think insane. Be urbane.

Fight the Power (or lack thereof)

Due to these power outages and a barrage of case law this week, I will have to proceed at a slower pace this week with my posting. This weekend I will attempt to make up for ground lost. My kohort, Wally Vega's got you kovered though.....Your main man,
-Debonoir

Groovin' on a Sunday Afternoon

I don't know if you were able to see the innovative, insightful, creative Glow in the Dark Tour starring none other than the Louis Vutton Don, Kanye West; with appearances from N.E.R.D., Lupe Fiasco, and Rhianna. I wasn't able to empty my bank account to go see it, yup, still broke like Kobe's jump shot in the finals last year. If you were able to go see the tour in the United Kingdom, then you may know the significance of this spotlight. One of the opening acts for Ye' was Oxford graduate, Mr.Hudson and his band The Library. Word on the street is that they were recently signed to G.O.O.D Music, the record label of Mr.West. After taking a listen, I cannot really be mad at Kanye if he did sign them. They would be very good for his label, they could play live in the studio, and surely it would improve his production while in the mean time building an even larger fan base in Europe. If John Lennon and Maroon 5 had a love child, they would be paying child support for Mr.Hudson and The Library. Their sound is fresh, smooth, and eclectic, but they are definitely representing London Town to the fullest, no wanksta isssh here chum. The youtube video below is titled "Ask the DJ," a lighthearted love song about a weekend out with that special young lady. Enjoy. Until next time laddies... Find your swank. Think insane. Be Urbane.

The Toronto Triple Threat

The last person to successfully make the transition from acting to rapping sold over 10 million albums whil helping the world "Get Jiggy With It." There have been others who have attempted the feat and have been overly successful in one aspect or the other i.e. LL Cool J, Mark Walberg, and Eve.  With history not in his favor Aubrey "Drake" Graham, who already has built a large fan base as Jimmy: a disabled young adult in the sitcom Degrassi, is ready to hit the ground running and become hip hop's next rookie of year. Not only is he an exceptionally talented actor and rapper, this 21 year old phenom from Toronto can hold a tune with the best of them. I have added a youtube video of his song brand new, which is about someone in love trying to please their companion but is discouraged when all their efforts are overshadowed by the fact that someone before them has 'been there & done that'. The second youtube video is a song which debuted on BET's viewer choice entertainment show 106 & Park. Drake become the first Canadian rapper to ever have a video played on the show. The name of the song is Replacement Girl, in which he solicited the help of comrade and songwriter extraordinaire  Trey Songz to make a song about finding someone better than your last girlfriend. With Drake recently teaming up with Lil Wayne for the Brand New Remix and Ransom, this Toronto triple threat is set to blow, because is most definitely the bomb, like tick...tick. Until next time...Find your swank.Think insane.Be urbane.

O-H-I-O, O-H-N-O!!!

USC 35- OSU 3

Saturday, September 13th, 2008 (my half birthday, Let's get it!), the stage was set. Ohio State, national champ runner up two seasons in a row, and Southern California, the PAC-10 powerhouse who has a stable of super athletes cloned from the Greek god Zeus, were scheduled to fight for supremacy among the college elite as the team to beat. USC became the favorite in the match up in week one when Chris "Beanie" Wells suffered the Shaquille O'neal complex, an injured big toe. Tressel rested Wells for the week two match up against Ohio University, in which they squeaked by for a win of 26-14. The whole week Jim Tressel remained ambiguous when speaking with the media regarding Wells' status. When the game came around, the status of Wells proved to not matter. Even if the Buckeyes had Troy Smith, Andy Katazenmoyer, Ted Gin, and Chris Gamble, all self inflicted penalties still would have cost them the game. Aside the penalties, USC made Ohio State look like a high school scouting team. However, the bright spot of Ohio State was Terrelle Pryor, a freshmen quarterback, who passed for 52 yards on 7 of 9 attempts and rushed for 40 yards on 11 attempts; while Chris Boeckman passed for 14 of 21, which included two interceptions. So, while USC seems to be the favorite for the national championship, Ohio State has a quarterback controversy on their hands. Even though we won't get a chance to see the Buckeyes get thrashed in the National Championship this year, we may get to see Terrelle Pryor play for immortality at Michigan in November. Until next time....Find your swank. Think insane. Be urbane.

Super Cool Cinema

Obviously, I didn't make it to the Atypical party. My apologies, I'll be at the next one. I spent this Saturday night at the movies. Now, I wanted to see "Burn after Reading or Eagle Eye (9/26)" but being the gentleman that I am, I let my date choose. Reluctantly, we went to see "A Family That Preys." Yes. I know what you're thinking. ANOTHER Tyler Perry soap opera. Since the debut of his first big screen movie, "Diary of a Mad Black Woman," he has made his mark telling stories of ordinary people in a dramatic, sometimes overly written, way. But he always seems to end the movie with a lesson. And if you are an avid Tyler Perry fanatic, then you wont be disappointed. This story tells the lives of a small town connected  by two families, one company, and one belief...faith. One lesson that I did take from that movie was that greed is often what your eyes can see, but what your heart can't hold. Until next time... Find your swank. Think insane. Be Urbane.

Super Cool Saturdays

It's Saturday. You don't have to work, Dope Boys excluded. And your girlfriend's having a waiting to exhale night at the Lifetime Resorts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. For those of you who are in the Cincinnati area, or own a private jet, you should stop by Club Cue tonight for "Fresco" for the new release of Atypical's, the most known unknown clothing line, fall collection. Not only do these guys design exceptional threads, but they can throw a dope party, alah The Rat Pack. The cost of their urbanely creative shirts usually run at the price point of about $20. These up and coming entrepreneurs are from Ohio, the birthplace of flight, which means freshness is in their DNA. Go patronize local vendors, help them become global, which starts trends; be noble. Stop by Cue tonight and if you don't have fun, next time you see me out, I'm buying the first round. Of water, I'm still broke. Until next time...Find your swank.Think insane.Be Urbane.

F-Fr-Fr-Friggidy Fresh Fridays!

While I was looking for the new cover of Vibe Magazine that features Janet Jackson reincarnated, oops! I meant Ciara, (which I HAVE to come back to later) I stumbled across Ludacris' new single which features song writer extraordinaire Sean Garrett and break dancin-disco fever johnson-Mr.Im bringing Lightskinned back-singer,Chris Brown. The quality of the song does not surprise me, with Seal's, sorry freudian slip, Sean Garrett's writing ability and his raspy yet whiney voice along side the energy of Chris Brown and the witty lyrics of Ludacris, I would be disappointed with anything less than a hit. However I am not here to discuss my opinion of the song. Watch the video. There is this very light complected woman with a ceasar ( low cut), but she is BAD.!. I always said that I could never date a woman whose head feels like mine (pause), but this young lady is the bomb....like tick, tick...





Okay, now back to the original reason of inspiration. This morning as I'm perusing through the airport bookstore-kiosk thingy(running errands for my unpaid internship,shout out to Chris Garnder!), trying to find something to eat for under $2.35( yeah im more broke than MC Hammer),I come across the new Vibe Magazine, the one with Ciara on the cover. On the cover she is skintily (told you i never won the spelling bee) clad, but looking super bad! Chicka-Chicka Yeah, Shout out to McLovin!! Anyways, I turned to the article about her and I said "kjkvcjkjdnknsdoiifodiidklncnls!" She's baring it all, so if she has a penis, she's tucking it tighter that Marlon Wayans in Scary Movie 3. So go check it out because I ALmost stole it, but my bookbag was too heavy. Im outtie 5000! Until next time...Keep.it.swanky.

Call me Jeff. Im feelin' REAL jazzy!

Spawned by Debonoir's jazz inspired post earlier, I decided to give an ode to some gentlemen who have been soothing ears since before I was born (im 22!). Based out of Philadelphia, these men, as teenagers, formed Pieces of a Dream. I never travel to the library without my trusty Pieces of a Dream playlist. While their names don't ring bells like Coltrane or Mile Davis, they have a following that extends from California to Africa! WARNING: You can NOT do the stanky leg to this music. I know. I apologize. Before you click the play button, go grab that chemistry from under your bed, start to do your homework......Now click play. Until next time....Keep it swanky!

...And I still have Nightmares About it

The bell rung. There's only two minutes until I have be to my second class, oh well, I'll still stop and talk to the ladies. It's too early not to be friendly and plus Ashley was looking like the first day in heaven! Uh-oh, that was the bell. Let me scurry to the locker room. As I'm changing into my gym clothes, Gerard comes down screaming, in what I assumed was a joking manner,"Damn Afghans attacked us." Of course we all laughed, Gerard always had some antics. Thirty seconds later, Doyle comes in saying " The f*cking Indies bombed us dude!." Then I was like, "whaaa?," but it was time for roll call. One more time being late and I would receive a Saturday school. We get up stairs and everybody was sitting down somberly in indian style in octagon like circle. It was more quiet than the crowd when Tiger Woods tees off. Then over the loud speaker we were informed that the Pentagon, and the World Trade Center had been attacked, by terrorists, with our own airplanes. I had never felt so helpless in my life. All flights were grounded or cancelled....indefinately. Baseball was postponed, and so was football. Everyone prayed that sonic booms that they heard were not attacks on Wright-Patt Air Force Base. Our country cried for help, and the rest of the world jumped in joy with unfathomable elation. Superman was now in a wheel chair. It seven years late and I can still smell the ashes and taste the tears. Where will YOU be on November 4, 2008???

This is what I'm talking about Gents.

This is a PERFECT execution of the Gray Suit by Band of Outsiders modeled at New York Fashion Week...Take Notes gents (Feel free to take some liberty with the boutonniere). Mark my words if you make sure your suits fit like this you will notice a complete shift in the way women pay attention to you (namely, they will ACTUALLY be paying attention). Your main man,
-Debonoir

GEEK POST: Blackberry Storm

Sorry folks, had to take down the vid. I guess the people at Verizon caught wind of the clip.....When there are any official vids of the elusive touchscreen Blackberry I will be sure to post them here because we need our Blackberry devices, right?

Max Roach: What Black People Sound Like

Often, when we think of Jazz we think of those virtuoso, technical, craftsmen blowing the horn; Dizzy, Miles, The Bird etc...Or those guys on the keys; Monk, The Duke, Count Basie, Charles Mingus and so on. I think that most Jazz fans(including myself) take the percussionists for granted. I'm sure that this is not on purpose but the rhythm that the drummers lay down are so vital to the mood of the composition. If the drums are mellow and cool, that's where your mind goes, to your favorite coffee shop or further into your own isolation. If the drums come out kicking then your mind goes there too, to your favorite club and your head just goes bobbing along. Max Roach was a MASTER, his odes to Africa and its diaspora really make one proud of his heritage. You can feel the richness of the culture and the love that Mr. Roach had for black and brown people. Consequently, the phrase "Black is Beautiful" had more meaning and relevance when Mr. Roach was playing the drums than it ever had before. So if you have never listened to Max Roach manipulate the hi hats and the snares then you ought to...NOW. Start with arguably his most famous album: We Insist: Freedom Now

LISTEN UP: Hip-Hop is STILL love music

Shwayze is a band I came across long before their show on MTV and their music is simply about love. Love of Life, Love of Women, Love of fun. Their sound although it is more alternative and indie at times, it harkens back to the days of De La Soul, Das Efx, A Tribe Called Quest when Some hip-hoppers were living...like hippies quite frankly. Free Love, No Responsibility is the name of Shwayze, Cisco Adler and DJ Skeet Skeet's game. It's a good vibe for a Friday afternoon and you just got paid, aced that exam or whatever would be your equivalent...Stayed tuned tomorrow for my post on Max Roach...A Jazz drummer and the man who made Africa SOUND cool....

Tired of Crankin that BullSh*t?!

If you're like me, in 2007, there was tooooooo much dancing. Yeah, the soulja boy served its purpose, but DAMN, why did everybody and they're grandmother have a remix?! Fortunately, I have what is diagnosed as music related ADHD, which means I am unable to be drowned with the same type of music for extremely long periods of time. If music were my personality, I'd be schizophrenic (I never won the spelling be). So, for all the people who are still crankin some type of lame copy cat bull sh*t, here is some marajuana for your mind.

First we have the Cool Kids, a couple of mc's from Chicago. I have to admit, I was sleeping on them until they came to Cincinnati last spring. They have an 80's funk about them that is coupled by the new generation's bravado, or swagger for all you vocabulary ingrates. They're live performance is exceptional at worst. They have two mixtapes to date, The Bake Sale & That's Stupid. You can and will download them from Datpiff.com. If Run Dmc had a twins with a Tribe Called Quest and had an affair will the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air's stylist, you get these guys. The game has been waiting for another good dynamic duo, watch out Outkast!

Next there's this guy WALE', "don't say Wal-ly," out of Maryland. Quite frankly he's a monster! His content is very refreshing and style remind me of, well no one....but if i HAD to choose he would be mix between the creativity of Lupe, the conscienceness of Nas, and the innovation of Kanye. Heavy right? Yeah, I know. He also has an ad running with Levi right now. The guy's doing his thing to say the least. But, don't take my word for it go download "The Mixtape About Nothing & 100 Miles and Running" from Datpiff.com. Now you can say you aren't a bandwagoner. You're Welcome.

P.S. Keep it swanky!

Blackberry Post: Off to see Soledad

I'm off to see the classiest woman in news, Soledad O'Brien. She's just as pretty in person as she is on CNN. That's right...I met her. Your main man,
-Debonoir

The Silent Killer

Today, as I begun my daily workout regimen, I looked around and noticed something. Out of the 32 people in the gym, 4 of them were people of color, and all 4 male. I understand that there are bigger issues in the world, I know, but first I have to take of the world I know. As I was saying, whenever I go to the gym African-Americans always account for less than 20% of the people working out. And there are always only a handfull of my female counterparts improving their physical health.

I always wonder why the females in our community are so underrepresented in a recreation center of an instution of higher education, where they account for at least two times the population of men. After a while I stopped thinking and started asking. My lifting partner Earl Barron and I, started asking do you ever go to the gym? And why or why not? (With this being an informal study, our results are not organized as they would be, if we had recorded the official data.) The answers that we heard were:"I don't have time, I don't want to sweat my hair out, Why should I? I look good already!, I like being thick, Im scared that I will lose my ass, and Everytime I try working out, I never lose weight."

I would like to adress those statements.

• "I don't have time"- There are 24 hours in a day."Surgeon General recommend that individuals of all ages accumulate at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most, preferably all, days of the week.(IFIC)" So 30 minutes a day is equal to 3 1/2 hours. If you don't want to go to the gym every day, go four days a week for an hour.



• "I don't want to sweat my hair out"- NICE TRY. Wrap your hair. It needs to be washed at least once a week anyways.



• "Why should I? I look good already!"- Congradulations! You were blessed by our Creator. But, as I'm sure you've heard the freshmen 15, what about the sophomore 16, or the junior 20? I didn't think so. Yes, you have a good body now, but as time passes, so will your youth, and your speedy metabolism....just ask Chaka Khan. Click ---->Before & After.



• "I like being thick"- Well I hope that you like being obese as well. And with obesity comes diabetes, cholesterol problems, respiratory complications, heart attacks, and colon & breast cancer. I hope that you like taking 10 pills a day as well!



• "I'm scared that I will lose my ass"- Uhm, ok. Well answer this question. Why does 99% of women who run track have exceptional derieres?? They MUST have been born that way, becuase I know they don't work out....on a daily basis.. Yeah. that's it.



• "Everytime I try to workout I never lose weight"- Losing weight is all in your diet, not in A diet. Diets are temporary. If you would like to alter the way you look forever, you must change the way you eat, FOREVER. No more fast food, pints of ice cream,fried foods, or eating dinner after 9pm. Contrary to popular belief, the earlier in the day you eat coupled with more frequent eating, the easier it is to lose weight. It is better to eat the larger meals of the day early, so you stay energized, but are constantly burning energy all day. Eating twice a day makes your body stretch out the food you ate, because it know there is not much more coming for the rest of the day. If you are eating smaller portion throughout the day, your body is constantly burning the fat and energy so that it can have room for a some more.

Ladies...and Gentlemen, by no means am I saying that exercise will bring the world peace, but I am saying that exercise may bring YOUR world peace. According to AskMen.com some benefits of working out are: Sleeping better, slows the aging process & aids against premature death, strengthens and boosts your immune systems, improves mental acuity, improves confidence, increases energy and endurance, IMPROVES SEXUAL PERFORMANCE & RESTORES LIBIDO, reduces stress, depression & anxiety, reduces the risk of MANY diseases. The proof is in the pudding people. There are just too many young African-Americans dying because of the vacancy of physical fitness in their lives. I once heard that good die young. That may be true, but the great never die. Let's go for immortality y'all! Do your best and let God do the rest!! Until next time....-Keep it swanky!

Brand Spotlight: HEAD-PORTER

"In my Fall of Rome jeans, my Head-Porter wallet"....You might recognize these lyrics from Lupe Fiasco's song "Gold Watch", now let me elaborate.  Head-Porter <--(link) makes everything from wallets to purses to PMP cases to Iphone cases, laptop bags....They are of superior quality and I fully recommend the brand. Don't be scared of all the Japanese writing, once you click on the design you like (I am a fan of the Black Beauty design) it shows USD prices as well...  Now this stuff can get expensive but some of the smaller goods like the wallets and PMP cases are actually pretty affordable....Enjoy!  After all, if its good enough for Lupe, its good enough for you...

Lunch Time Post: BUY THIS- SELVEDGE DENIM

Selvedge Denim; Its Japanese Denim and pretty much the best quality you can buy.  It will last you a very long time.  Here's the technical breakdown: definition of selvedge denim courtesy of StyleForum.net - "Selvage is the term commonly used to refer to denim that has been produced on a shuttle loom. Since the amount of fabric produced from a shuttle loom is significantly narrower than a projectile (wide) loom, the cotton consumption is higher and the time required is greater. In selvage jeans, you will see the actual edge of the fabric where the weaving stops and is finished by the loom, as opposed to denim woven on a projectile loom, where the fabric has been cut off at the ends. "

The point being, go buy some and wear them until you can't anymore (which will take you awhile).  If you want that "lived in" feel to your denim, then go get some jeans and LIVE in them, there is no substitution for authentic weathering to your jeans.  Try out this vintage-slim-cut pair from J.Crew (above) or if you wanna go more urban but still be put together, head on over to karmaloop.com and try out a pair from WeSC

READ THIS!

If you haven't read this book, please do so immediately, there is lots of valuable knowledge therein.  Warning: The content and instructions from Mr. Bentley may seem like common sense but if its not already habit to you then you are for whom the book is written.

All Day I Dream About Sex? Not anymore!!!

Alas! Adidas is an acronym for All Day I Dream About Sports! For decades Adidas has been known for their sporty yet urbane sense of fashion. Quietly they have built a line that is as versatile as a three piece suit. Whether its cleats, jerseys, track jackets or sneakers, adidas is exclusively creative. This fall they have moved into the twilight zone, where high fashion meets 50 mile marathons. Teaming up with designer Yohji Yamamoto to sex their frame up in attempts to change the game up. The name of the Fall/Winter 2008 line is titled Y-3. It is very different, but refreshing, with a touch of sportivity. It features twill pants and denim as well as three shoe models cultivating an all black persona featuring: the Ikuno shoe, Black Honja high top and Zippered sneaker boot. So if you're tired of the button ups and Steve Madden loafers or the J's and Affliction V necks, run to the stores and make it rain! Until next time....Keep it swanky!!

Let's Peruse the Essentials of Cool...

Ok, remember those charcoal gray Italian wool flat front trousers I told you about? Of course you do, now here is where we revisit them, but in the context of the charcoal gray suit.  Never seen a charcoal gray suit? Perhaps you've been watching Steve Harvey too long and there are a number of reasons why that is NOT good.  Nevertheless, the charcoal gray suit as with the navy suit and the medium gray suit are a good starting point to your suiting wardrobe.  Did you expect to read about 6 button purple numbers with platinum pinstripes and coattails with matching gators? Again see the above comment about Mr. Harvey. Get all of that Bishop Don Juan (though a genius entrepreneur he is a style icon he is not), Detroit Red, "My pocket square, tie and cuff links came in a set" thinking out of here. It has no place amongst the urbane.  Think instead of Jason Statham, Pierce Brosnan and Fonzworth Bentley as the guidelines.  I will break down the essential elements of the suit meaning the coat and trousers (shirt, tie and shoes will be for another time) 

First; The Suit Coat

A man's suit coat is classified by the size of the chest. If you have never gotten measured I highly suggest (read: demand) that you do so.  Now that you know what size your chest is you can pick out a size.  They are listed in inches like 36, 37, 38 and so on and by length like Short for those of you 5'8" and below, Regular for those of you 5'9"-6'0" and Long for those of you 6'1" and above.   For example, the size I wear is 39Long (I'm between 6'2"-6'3" and 185 lbs.) These are not concrete categories, they are simply guidelines and your weight and build should absolutely dictate what size you actually by rather than just your height.  Remember buying a suit from a store like Men's Wearhouse or Banana Republic will almost always require alterations so if you have to buy a size bigger or smaller than what you thought, don't worry it CAN be fixed. 

A suit coat has sleeves, lapels, a waist, shoulders, buttons (no more than 2 or 3) and if you're paying attention a vent or vents. 

Your sleeves should end right at the bottom of your thumb as to allow that shirt cuff to show (again we'll address the shirt later). This is not up for negotiation, your coat sleeves end at the bottom of your thumb PERIOD.

Your lapels can be peak, notch or (for the Old Hollywood) shawl-collared, ask the salesman at the store for examples of each, he'll think you know your stuff and you will be able to pick what style you like best.  When you button your coat (the top one on two button coats and the middle one on three button coats) your lapels should lay flat and smooth, they should not bow outward or lift off your chest and they should not just hang loosely.  Your clothes SHOULD fit, they SHOULD NOT be too tight or too loose.

Your jacket should have a waist because guess what gents? Your waist is actually right below your belly button! That's right (we'll get into that in the pants section).  Your jacket should accentuate this fact after all (you do keep in shape right?) Even those of you who could use a few extra sit ups, a jacket that has a defined waist can give the illusion that you're in much better shape than you are. Imagine that, Baggy clothes don't help you hide weight.  Clothes that fit give your body a CONTOUR, a SILHOUETTE and that is the key to looking trim.  There should be some space between your coat's sleeves and the your body.  I guarantee you will look a thousand times better.  

The shoulders of your coat should fall flat and smooth on your NATURAL shoulders, only football and hockey players wear shoulder pads and even they take them off to put on a suit.  

2 or 3 buttons PERIOD. Don't even bother me with these 5 button+ monstrosities

Now, your coat should have vents.  What are they for? Movement.  Unvented coats are awkward to sit down in and binding if buttoned.  Vents allow for ease of natural movement throughout the day.  Once you have a vented suit you will never go unvented again.  Center Vents or Side Vents are O.K. It depends on your style. The Center Vented suit is slightly more American  and Side Vents are more European traditionally

Lastly, you should be able to put your arms down and grab around the bottom of your suit coat with your fingers.  If your jacket goes past your fingertips, put it back. No exceptions

Now we tackle the pants.  I see so many of young African American men who wear trousers as baggy as they wear their jeans complete with the requisite hanging off the rear end.  It saddens me deeply.  Gents, your trousers should NOT fit like your jeans because they are NOT jeans! The guidelines to the fit of your trouser is simpler than your coat but still widely ignored.  

First, your trousers should NOT have pleats if you are slim.  Pleats add weight and can make even the most in shape of us look full.  Now, if you must have pleats, get the legs of your trousers tapered (actually always do this even if you have flat front trousers) because a properly tailored suit coat and baggy ill-fitting trousers is not a good look.  And for the gentleman with a little weight on him, opt for the pleats but make sure the length of your trouser's legs is appropriate or your legs will appear shorter than they are (and I'm sure shorter than you want) Most pleats are double reverse and lots of designers make single pleat options which are a nice compromise.  But remember, it doesn't even matter if they don't fit right in the first place.

Your trouser legs should hit the top of your shoes and break ONCE. They should not bunch up over your shoes! THIS IS BAD! After all once I show you the type of shoes that go with your properly tailored suit, you will want them to be seen.

Your trousers should also have cuffs at the bottom.  Your cuffs correspond to your height. If you wear a Short or Regular suit then your cuffs should be 1 and 1/4 inches and if you wear a Long then your cuffs should be 1 and 1/2 inches.  Easy right?

You do not have to pull up your pants to your natural waist (right below your belly button), I know its not the 60's.  However, you WILL NOT sag your suit trousers PERIOD. Pull your damn pants UP!

These are the basics of the suit and if you go into a suiting store knowing all of these things, buying a suit will be much more enjoyable and the salesman will be very impressed with your wealth of knowledge...Stay tuned for the tutorial on shirts and shoes....

PS 

Above is a great example of a great Navy suit you can by "off the rack" i.e. from a store, already made

Its from Banana Republic.

It's Fall Gents, Get YOUR Sweater game up

Now, right off the bat gents, allow me to offer this warning: Some of my posts will contain clothes that may be pricey for you (for others maybe not) but my point is, clothes (read: style) is about quality not quantity so spending money on one thing that will last you longer is much more economical than having to buy it again because it lost its shape or fell apart.  Clothes are an INVESTMENT...Diversify your portfolio....

Now with that out of the way, fall is around the corner and its almost time to break out the long sleeves.  Now gentlemen I am pleading with you:  LEAVE YOUR ALLOVER PRINT HOODIES and COOGI BILL COSBY sweaters in the back of your closet where they belong.  opt instead for a smart 100% cotton cardigan like this navy one (above) from J.Crew. The fit is trim, clean and will go great with your charcoal gray Italian wool flat-front trousers that you're going to wear with it (i'll tell you about those later).  Now go buy this one or one of similar quality and watch women start to gaze with desire (maybe).  Fellas, there are rules to style and it is those rules that hold us together as members of urbane society...

Good Day Ladies and Gents

Just a quick introduction from the other Ambassador of Urbane Society.  You will come to know me as Debonoir.  I enjoy all things sartorial and my immediate (for some of you it may turn into long term) objectives are to restore the pride and the Cool in the wardrobe of the Young, Urbane, African American male as well as pointers on how to live an  all around urbane lifestyle.  I will be providing you with tips on how to dress, what to buy and where to buy it, and most importantly the FIT of your garments from your shirt collar to your wingtips, from the casual, professional, to the date worthy; sorry fellas, no unnecessary excess of fabric here, just what you need to be timeless, because those with style always find fashion unacceptable......

P.S. 

I am in professional school (Law) so my posts may be a little more infrequent than my partner in crime Wally.Vega but I will do my best to keep up because being cultured is about, what you know, how much you know about it, how you look and how you feel.......

Vandal or Van Gogh?

The world is constructed of concepts that society has created and coined as normalities, but when someone comes along and challenges these fragile states of being, i.e. Jesus Christ, Ghandi, Bob Marley, Dr.Martin Luther King Jr., and Malcolm X, society usually (Especially America) does not respond very warmly. It is usually not realized until the clock strikes twelve and the dance is over that what we were witnessing was an innovative way of thinking that will cleanse mud splattered window panes which no one bothered to notice.

Upon research spawned by the insight of another fellowshiper of the cool (thanks HypeBeast!), I have found the REAL dark knight. He is a well known anonymous grafitti artist from Europe who goes by the name Banksy. He has become revered for his raw, but humorous images that appear on the side of buildings, which have started to 'appear' in America. His message usually consists of anti-war, anti-capitalist or anti-establishment. Above is grafitti that was spotted August 29,2008 in Alabama. It was eventually erased, but I'm sure the message got across. In order for hope to be born on November 4,2008, hatred must die. It must die vulgar as it begun, in the night.

In 2004, Banksy waltzed right into the Louvre in Paris and hung on a wall a picture he had painted that closely resembled the Mona Lisa but modified with a yellow smiley face. Although the painting of satire was quickly removed by the museum staff, it and its accomplice, temporarily on unknown display at the Tate Britain, were described by Banksy as 'shortcuts'. He is quoted as saying: "To actually [have to] go through the process of having a painting selected must be quite boring, It's a lot more fun to go and put your own one up. " So that's what he has been doing, going around America and putting his own art up. And although many owners of the buildings that he uses are not appreciative of his valor, many moons from now they will wish that they did not vandalize his art by erasing it. Until next time...Keep it swanky!

And then there was creativity...

Fashion grabs @ my heart,
Music touches my soul,
And writing helps my blood flow.

The rhythm soothes my pain,
Krazy seams and things keeps my mind unchained,
With the pen unleashing my dreams untamed.

I'll miss a meal for the latest tie,
Tamper with the lastest Lupe quote and say its mine,
And paint portraits of love like DaVinci until my mind goes blind.


The only things more important: God & my sister,
Anything extra is regarded as a visitor,
Mediocrity is a charming woman there's no need in asissting her.


I thought that this would be a nice way to begin a fellowship of the cool. Allow me to introduce myself , Wally Vega. An artist with many a canvas. In this poem are things that are integral parts of my life who make me who I am. I appreciate all things creative,cool,and confident. I have a taste for high end material and raw substance. A person who can adapt to todays trends and still remain timeless is the person who will be successful, in whatever they aspire...whether it be fashion, music, OR blogging about both. Adapt and conquer is the name of the game. Believe me if Will Smith was still rapping(<---Click for Exhibit A), he'd be wrapping...boxes at Fed Ex. Use your talent as a catalyst as a tool to improve the world. Not everyone will be Mother Teresa or Dr. Martin Luther King, but the world always is ready for an epic movie or an inspiring song(<---Click Exibit B). Find your niche and dig a hole, so deep that people fall in and are forced to revel at how well your hole is crafted. And if you dig far enough, you may mine a diamond.Until next time...Keep it swanky!