About Town: Japan Fashion Now @ the FIT Museum

"All roads lead to Rei," as in Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons. Sharon Graubard of Stylesight describes Japan's heavy influence in contemporary fashions seen in raw edges, deconstruction and silhouettes moving away from the body. As an homage to the cult-following of Japanese fashion, the FIT museum is showcasing top designers like Yohji Yamamoto and Issey Miyake with their influences today seen in Western examples such as Proenza Schouler's ombre silks and Rick Owens' black layered runway looks.

Exhibition through January 8, 2011.
@
Seventh Avenue at 27th Street
New York, New York 10001-5992
Tues - Fri Noon - 8pm
Saturday 10am - 5pm
Closed Sundays, Mondays, and legal holidays.
Admission is always free.

Images by NY Times.

White Mountaineering F/W 2010

Outdoor-based Japanese design company and their mantra:

"'The field in which we wear clothes is all outdoors.'

One, design. Two,utility. Three, technology. The imagination to fuse these elements together. The attitude of not submitting to sales or market needs."

About Town: Tokyo! Look! @ Asia Society

Fashionable trends on the streets of Tokyo have inspired oohs and aahs in international media. Celebrating New York Fashion Week, this event highlights some of the latest styles and their cultural significance.

Speakers include:

Yuniya Kawamura (Professor of Sociology, Fashion Institute of Technology);
Dan Bailey (Co-founder, Tokyo Dandy);
Nicole Michalek (Senior Designer, Nylon magazine, USA).

Post-program party featuring fashion showcase by CANDY, live music by DJ Ansoni and DJ Kei, drinks sponsored by Asahi beer and TY KU, a make-up showcase.

6:30 - 8:00 pm: Talks/Panel
8:00 - 10:30 pm: Party

Hotel sponsor: Kitano Hotel.

Co-presented by New York-Tokyo

Sep 9, 2010 | 6:30pm to 10:30pm

725 Park Avenue, New York, NY

$10 members; $12 students/seniors, $15 nonmembers

Eye Want: Mr. Bathing Ape by United Arrows

Could it be? Did A Bathing Ape stop in Williamsburg and grow a hipster mustache? A Bathing Ape (BAPE), Regal Shoes and United Arrows have all teamed up in Japan for a Spring/Summer 2010 collection available exclusively at United Arrows. It's a refreshing departure from the more urban conversation pieces that BAPE is known for. I'm obsessed with the shoes which retail for around $210. Notice the subtle detailing on the loafers (an embossed mustache) and oxfords (the BAPE signature star on the toe).