Stylin' & Profilin'...

We Need To Talk About Kevin; Based on the novel: We Need To Talk About Kevin

2012-01-26T10:59:00.001-08:00

What a disturbing story, shown in the most perfect way. There was one timing issue in the end but I don't want to give too much away...I realize I've done too much of that in my previous posts. I suppose I should work harder on that...nah. This is MY blog, so NYAH!!!

I feel like this film was a cross between The Good Son and Taxi Driver; a rather healthy marriage, don't you think? I don't know, something about psycho children just sort of points me in that direction.

Tilda Swinton gives a chilling performance as she portrays a mother whose son has gone on a killing spree. I saw a little tiny bit of Winona Ryder in her flashback scenes, but I definitely don't see that as a problem. Swinton was absolutely dead behind the eyes, something that is not easy to convince on camera.

Ezra Miller is Kevin and I fear seeing him in any other performance because I will only be able to picture him as this psycho. There are very fascinating moments with Kevin's wardrobe where it would often be duplicated from his childhood. It was such a simple thing but it caught my eye and creeped me out even more. Oh psychos....you're just so complicated and smart.

2 Great NY Films

2012-01-17T11:34:00.000-08:00

I spent yesterday at a local cinema. I dedicated all that time to honor two very special New York films and I wanted to make sure I could watch them both on the same day. Both were so incredible and explored love and sexuality in two very different, raw and pure ways. Neither film glorified sex or nudity, even though they had a fair share of both (one WAY more than the other, but again, it wasn't glorified and was very very much justified). As an audience member, I was really really moved by both films. As a person who works in film, I had a few notes, but I will try to keep them short as to allow more gushing.

"Shame" explores the life of Brandon Sullivan, a sex addict. Honestly, this film really educated me, because I (like many people) felt that all men were sex addicts, and they used it as a medical term to get away with being creepy perverts. Wow. Just wow. I stand corrected. An addiction is an addiction, whether it be drugs, alcohol, or in this case Sex. Director, Steve McQueen did a tremendous job expressing that. Wealthy, attractive and successful Brandon would often times resemble a junky when he is trying to get his fix. This is where I give a small kudos to the Costume Designer, David Robinson. At first I didn't understand what he was trying to accomplish, but the minute I saw which way the film was headed it all made sense and immediately earned my respect. In fact I found it rather genius.

I'm going to take a minute to objectify Michael Fassbender. He should change his surname to Assbender because that's exactly what he is in this film. Superb performance. He really really gave himself to the character and I applaud him for going that far with it. I loved him in Inglorious Bastards and have been looking forward to seeing his beautiful face onscreen again. I got more than what I wished for; I got to see more than his face. Thank you, Jesus. YES.

Mr. Assbender is a very very handsome man, but his talent and IQ make him uber sexy. It would be a pleasure/dream/fantasy to dress/undress him.

Carey Mulligan plays Brandon's sister, Sissy. She was good. All I have to say is, whenever I saw her in her white outfit, I kept thinking she looked and sounded like Drew Barrymore as Casey from Scream.

This is from my absolute favorite scene in the movie. I really enjoyed the cinematography in this film because of its long, uneasy shots. This particular scene (and shot) was very long and I felt like my heart was going to explode. It was so intense in so many ways yet with hardly any movement at all. So uncomfortable, but so incredible.

Pariah was an absolutely amazing story. I felt like there were technical issues with sound and man did this crew desperately need a tripod. The uniforms in this film were unconvincing, and took me right out of it but it was only for the length of the scene.

I promise, those are my only notes...Pariah introduces us to Alike (pronounced uh-LEE-kay), a lesbian struggling with sexual identity, risking friendship and family; a true pariah.

It's so refreshing to see a story about gay characters who aren't victims of rape, hate crime, or AIDS or as some over exaggerated flamboyant butt of a joke. This film deals more with life at home and school, something we can all relate to.

The ending made me cry, which is hard to do. I'm still haunted by Alike's final poem.

Much respect to Eniola Dawodu, the Costume Designer of Pariah. She doesn't have much experience, but I was quite impressed at how she was able to dramatically transform such insanely beautiful women to a pair of masculine "AG"s.

Adepero Oduye is absolutely stunning as a fem and an AG. Job well done. Her performance still haunts me.

Pernell Walker's transformation blew me away as well, as did her performance.

Before I close, I have to mention Kim Wayans. Like Mo'Nique in Precious, I was quite impressed with this comedienne's approach on such a serious role. She made it easy to hate her, which means she served the character well. I will always prefer Ms. Wayans in the comedy world, but very much appreciated her work and dedication in Pariah.

The Artist

2012-01-17T11:08:00.001-08:00

I am a huge fan of this film. Some people feel it was a copout or a bit too "gimmicky" but I found it absolutely wonderful. 100 minutes of pure greatness. I have a soft spot in my heart for old black and white movies and silent films.

In a world where this art is dying, George Valentin fears what many celebrities fear: inadequacy. The story really put things in perspective for those of us who are feeling old and face the threat of being usurped by younger more attractive generations. It also reflects what is to become of our entertainment industry as a whole. Silent or not, this was a good solid story.

Let's touch on that silence though. The ever so loud silence. I really think this enhanced the performances. The actors could no longer depend on the way they deliver a line, instead they had to rely on the Robert DeNiro style of acting---acting with the eyes. Jean DuJardin was absolutely brilliant with his expressions from dramatic and excitement in fame to subtle vulnerability in defeat. Those magic eyebrows and timeless face really convinced me he was in fact from the late 1920's. Absolutely dreamy and soooooo French.

Silent films make you notice everything else more, just like those who are deaf have heightened senses, we are able to feel more what our hero feels. We pay closer attention to what they are wearing and their environment; the details, time and talent it took to construct the look.

I also want to say, the dog in The Artist should get a Best Supporting Actor Oscar, Golden Globe and SAG Award. I'm not trying to be funny. This dog gave a hell of a performance and he supported George throughout the entire film, stealing the scene many times over, which is more than I can say about more than half of the human performances I've seen today.

Pardon Me, Do You Have Any Grey Poupon?

2012-01-15T10:16:00.000-08:00

Yes I know I keep making empty promises to you guys about more frequent updates. I'm sorry. I'm just working on all these gigs! Wait....I'm working so you know what? No. I'm not sorry. I'm succeeding. Hahahahahaha.

Let's take a second to talk about mustard. It is the new black, not only in fashion but also in the culinary world. A colleague of mine works for The Food Network (what a dream job!!), and she turned me onto their blog. Behold the awesomeness of mustard:

"Mustard in its many forms — from condiment to vegetable, spice to cooking oil — is about to get its moment. Heat is hot, and this multifarious member of the cabbage family represents a vast, underexplored source of culinary heat. Look for sharp, peppery Indian mustard oil, spicy-salty Sichuanese pickled mustard greens and pungent-sweet Italian fruit mustards. We’re all about to learn that this genuinely global ingredient is much more than a hot dog condiment.

In 2012, condiment mustard will be made from scratch (it’s so easy) by more home cooks and chefs, mustard seeds will be pickled and scattered over all things rich and porky; mustard oil will move beyond Indian (and Korean and Chinese) kitchens, becoming a common cooking and seasoning oil (it makes a great salad dressing); and the greens, so healthy and so long neglected, will be next year’s kale." http://blog.foodnetwork.com/fn-dish/2011/12/30/favorite-ingredient-mustard-food-network/

Drawing inspiration from the foodies, I can honestly say mustard is definitely having its moment in fashion. I feel like the last time it truly was explored this way was around the 60's/70's. I myself have hesitated often when presented with mustard as a color option. I feel like it doesn't serve my beautiful complexion very well and that it makes me look rather sick. I am eating my words like I'm eating a veggie sammich oozing with--yep you guessed it: mustard.

There is a way to really maximize on this tricky color. If you're nervous about trending up, while its still a hot color, I suggest using it like it is used in food--as a condiment. Start with a splash of it as an accessory, on a scarf or a hat. It pairs well with charcoal, black or even dark brown. If using it in a larger portion, I'm a huge fan of it being used in the sweater family--cardigans, cowl and crew necks.

This is a photo from a 2011/2012 preview shoot I did last year. Notice how mustard can look retro and sort of timeless.

I've yet to venture into full on mustard territory for my personal wardrobe. I'll do bangles at most. I'm more of a Tobasco sauce gal, myself. I think I'll stick to that vermillion shade....so yes you can say I'm passing on the mustard...but hey I've always liked my stuff a lot more spicier than the common man.

30 Things to Stop Doing to Yourself

2011-12-15T05:19:00.000-08:00

I stumbled upon this today:http://www.marcandangel.com/2011/12/11/30-things-to-stop-doing-to-yourself/

I found it extremely helpful (and full of common sense), and decided to copy and paste it here for a few reasons:

-I'll always have it for me

-you, the reader/subscriber will always have it

-for whatever reason, Blogger isn't allowing me to post it as a link.

-these are all things that we've said to ourselves time and time again, but now that its all written down in one place, denial is harder to take over.

DECEMBER 11TH, 2011 @ 4:30 PM BY: MARC

30 Things to Stop Doing to Yourself

When you stop chasing the wrong things you give the right things a chance to catch you.

As Maria Robinson once said, “Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.” Nothing could be closer to the truth. But before you can begin this process of transformation you have to stop doing the things that have been holding you back.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Stop spending time with the wrong people. – Life is too short to spend time with people who suck the happiness out of you. If someone wants you in their life, they’ll make room for you. You shouldn’t have to fight for a spot. Never, ever insist yourself to someone who continuously overlooks your worth. And remember, it’s not the people that stand by your side when you’re at your best, but the ones who stand beside you when you’re at your worst that are your true friends.

2. Stop running from your problems. – Face them head on. No, it won’t be easy. There is no person in the world capable of flawlessly handling every punch thrown at them. We aren’t supposed to be able to instantly solve problems. That’s not how we’re made. In fact, we’re made to get upset, sad, hurt, stumble and fall. Because that’s the whole purpose of living – to face problems, learn, adapt, and solve them over the course of time. This is what ultimately molds us into the person we become.

3. Stop lying to yourself. – You can lie to anyone else in the world, but you can’t lie to yourself. Our lives improve only when we take chances, and the first and most difficult chance we can take is to be honest with ourselves. Read The Road Less Traveled.

4. Stop putting your own needs on the back burner. – The most painful thing is losing yourself in the process of loving someone too much, and forgetting that you are special too. Yes, help others; but help yourself too. If there was ever a moment to follow your passion and do something that matters to you, that moment is now.

5. Stop trying to be someone you’re not. – One of the greatest challenges in life is being yourself in a world that’s trying to make you likeeveryone else. Someone will always be prettier, someone will always be smarter, someone will always be younger, but they will never be you. Don’t change so people will like you. Be yourself and the right people will love the real you.

6. Stop trying to hold onto the past. – You can’t start the next chapter of your life if you keep re-reading your last one.

7. Stop being scared to make a mistake. – Doing something and getting it wrong is at least ten times more productive than doing nothing. Every success has a trail of failures behind it, and every failure is leading towards success. You end up regretting the things you did NOT do far more than the things you did.

8. Stop berating yourself for old mistakes. – We may love the wrong person and cry about the wrong things, but no matter how things go wrong, one thing is for sure, mistakes help us find the person and things that are right for us. We all make mistakes, have struggles, and even regret things in our past. But you are not your mistakes, you are not your struggles, and you are here NOW with the power to shape your day and your future. Every single thing that has ever happened in your life is preparing you for a moment that is yet to come.

9. Stop trying to buy happiness. – Many of the things we desire are expensive. But the truth is, the things that really satisfy us are totally free – love, laughter and working on our passions.

10. Stop exclusively looking to others for happiness. – If you’re not happy with who you are on the inside, you won’t be happy in a long-term relationship with anyone else either. You have to create stability in your own life first before you can share it with someone else. Read Stumbling on Happiness.

11. Stop being idle. – Don’t think too much or you’ll create a problem that wasn’t even there in the first place. Evaluate situations and take decisive action. You cannot change what you refuse to confront. Making progress involves risk. Period! You can’t make it to second base with your foot on first.

12. Stop thinking you’re not ready. – Nobody ever feels 100% ready when an opportunity arises. Because most great opportunities in life force us to grow beyond our comfort zones, which means we won’t feel totally comfortable at first.

13. Stop getting involved in relationships for the wrong reasons. – Relationships must be chosen wisely. It’s better to be alone than to be in bad company. There’s no need to rush. If something is meant to be, it will happen – in the right time, with the right person, and for the best reason. Fall in love when you’re ready, not when you’re lonely.

14. Stop rejecting new relationships just because old ones didn’t work. – In life you’ll realize that there is a purpose for everyone you meet. Some will test you, some will use you and some will teach you. But most importantly, some will bring out the best in you.

15. Stop trying to compete against everyone else. – Don’t worry about what others doing better than you. Concentrate on beating your own records every day. Success is a battle between YOU and YOURSELF only.

16. Stop being jealous of others. – Jealousy is the art of counting someone else’s blessings instead of your own. Ask yourself this: “What’s something I have that everyone wants?”

17. Stop complaining and feeling sorry for yourself. – Life’s curveballs are thrown for a reason – to shift your path in a direction that is meant for you. You may not see or understand everything the moment it happens, and it may be tough. But reflect back on those negative curveballs thrown at you in the past. You’ll often see that eventually they led you to a better place, person, state of mind, or situation. So smile! Let everyone know that today you are a lot stronger than you were yesterday, and you will be.

18. Stop holding grudges. – Don’t live your life with hate in your heart. You will end up hurting yourself more than the people you hate. Forgiveness is not saying, “What you did to me is okay.” It is saying, “I’m not going to let what you did to me ruin my happiness forever.” Forgiveness is the answer… let go, find peace, liberate yourself! And remember, forgiveness is not just for other people, it’s for you too. If you must, forgive yourself, move on and try to do better next time.

19. Stop letting others bring you down to their level. – Refuse to lower your standards to accommodate those who refuse to raise theirs.

20. Stop wasting time explaining yourself to others. – Your friends don’t need it and your enemies won’t believe it anyway. Just do what you know in your heart is right.

21. Stop doing the same things over and over without taking a break. – The time to take a deep breath is when you don’t have time for it. If you keep doing what you’re doing, you’ll keep getting what you’re getting. Sometimes you need to distance yourself to see things clearly.

22. Stop overlooking the beauty of small moments. – Enjoy the little things, because one day you may look back and discover they were the big things. The best portion of your life will be the small, nameless moments you spend smiling with someone who matters to you.

23. Stop trying to make things perfect. – The real world doesn’t reward perfectionists, it rewards people who get things done. Read Getting Things Done.

24. Stop following the path of least resistance. – Life is not easy, especially when you plan on achieving something worthwhile. Don’t take the easy way out. Do something extraordinary.

25. Stop acting like everything is fine if it isn’t. – It’s okay to fall apart for a little while. You don’t always have to pretend to be strong, and there is no need to constantly prove that everything is going well. You shouldn’t be concerned with what other people are thinking either – cry if you need to – it’s healthy to shed your tears. The sooner you do, the sooner you will be able to smile again.

26. Stop blaming others for your troubles. – The extent to which you can achieve your dreams depends on the extent to which you take responsibility for your life. When you blame others for what you’re going through, you deny responsibility – you give others power over that part of your life.

27. Stop trying to be everything to everyone. – Doing so is impossible, and trying will only burn you out. But making one person smile CAN change the world. Maybe not the whole world, but their world. So narrow your focus.

28. Stop worrying so much. – Worry will not strip tomorrow of its burdens, it will strip today of its joy. One way to check if something is worth mulling over is to ask yourself this question: “Will this matter in one year’s time? Three years? Five years?” If not, then it’s not worth worrying about.

29. Stop focusing on what you don’t want to happen. – Focus on what you do want to happen. Positive thinking is at the forefront of every great success story. If you awake every morning with the thought that something wonderful will happen in your life today, and you pay close attention, you’ll often find that you’re right.

30. Stop being ungrateful. – No matter how good or bad you have it, wake up each day thankful for your life. Someone somewhere else is desperately fighting for theirs. Instead of thinking about what you’re missing, try thinking about what you have that everyone else is missing.

Well I Just Met Someone Awsome

2011-12-14T07:11:00.001-08:00

My apologies for not updating this regularly. I've been traveling to random cities for a tv show I'm dressing. Once we're done traveling, I'll post some photos and stories. I just couldn't wait to share this one though. I'm quite humbled.

Ansil Saunders lives on Bimini, and is a top custom builder in the Bahamas. He has been a fishing guide for Richard Nixon, and many other well known sports. As a child he knew Earnest Hemmingway, and has a wonderful island outlook. He currently resides in Alice Town, Bimini where he continues to fish and builds amazing handcrafted boats.

On November 15, 2011, US Ambassador to The Bahamas, Her Excellency Nicole A. Avant presented a plaque and a signed book to Ansil Saunders in recognition of his outstanding contributions in keeping Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy alive in The Bahamas.

Mr. Saunders told Ambassador Avant that he first met Dr. King in 1964 when he traveled to Bimini in search of a peaceful and serene writing environment. Mr. Saunders knew the perfect place and took Dr. King deep into the mangroves to a spot called “Bonefish Hole” where Dr. King wrote portions of his famous Nobel Prize acceptance speech. Dr. King returned to Bimini in 1968 where he wrote portions of his Sanitation Workers speech while on Mr. Saunders’ boat.

Since Dr. King’s death, Mr. Saunders has shared his conversations with the civil rights leader with visitors to Bimini as well as with local and international media outlets, including National Public Radio. Plaques marking local sites visited by Dr. King are found throughout Alice Town, Bimini, including the location of a barbershop frequented by Dr. King and the cottage where he stayed during his visits. The local museum also has Dr. King’s disembarkation card with his original signature proudly on display.

He built that boat with his bare hands!

Yes, Yes, and Yes!

2011-11-20T21:46:00.000-08:00

My dear sweet readers,

I am so sorry to have neglected you for so long. It only means I've been extremely busy with all these shows! I will slowly update/upload what I've been up to. In the mean time, I just HAD to share these videos. They're AMAZING!

This is for all my fellow Costume Designers out there!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwF3H9_4j50

This one feels oh so familiar....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anusizr_jdY&feature=related

This one is absolutely epic and even more familiar!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAJg2wT8zeY&feature=related

Cufflinks

2011-09-04T19:09:00.000-07:00

I'm a huge fan of campy or ironic clothing...but even I have to draw a line somewhere. Here are 2 examples. 1 can fly, and the other....well I'm gonna try not to say anything too mean. To each his own, right?

Before I continue, let me just say that I love cufflinks. Its an accessory that defines the difference between a guy and a gentleman. That being said, gentlemen, please choose your cufflinks wisely. Don't go too big, don't go too gaudy, and if you have a logo to represent, don't you dare advertise them via your cufflinks!

Kenneth Cole...wtf?! I can't say that I know any men--gay or straight who would sport a pair of these. You couldn't possibly love water that much to want to sport faucets on your cuffs.

This is where I eat my words. These are big and gaudy but they're SO RAD! Sometimes, I'm a sci-fi chick...and I was quite happy to see these. I wish my male client who was with me had even an ounce of trekkie in him because I so badly wanted to dress a guy with these spectacular pieces of art--yes I called them art.

Cufflinks...I conclude with what I began with: to each his own.

Blue Clues

2011-09-04T18:43:00.000-07:00

Its moments like these that make me smile. These people all sat together. They don't know each other. They never said a word to each other or even looked at one another. Then they all got off their separate stops and were on their way. I wonder if any of them knew they were all wearing the same shade of blue.

I Will Always Love...The Bodyguard

2011-08-27T20:17:00.000-07:00

So, by order of the Mayor and the Governor, we've been ordered to stay indoors due to Hurricane Irene. That mean bitch. She spoiled everything. Luckily, I've got movies like The Bodyguard to keep me company.

Say what you will about Whitney Houston...poor girl never stood a chance against Bobby Brown and Clive Davis--

and say even more about Kevin Costner...talentless hack...but this movie has an absolutely timeless look.

Ignore the hairstyles and the 90's eyebrows. The wardrobe for this movie is absolutely amazing. Kevin Costner's suits fit his body to a tee; there's no sort of 90's "boxiness" whatsoever. Look at the sweater above. This was released in 1992!

Its very obvious that almost ten years later, a lot of popstars like Beyonce and Lady Gaga have pulled some of their looks from this film. Seriously, if it wasn't for the occasional feathered mullet or overplucked eyebrows, you'd never be able to tell when this movie was supposed to be set. That's the mark of a great Costume Designer.

Crazy Stupid Love

2011-08-21T15:54:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago, I was treated to a screening of Crazy Stupid Love. I had a lot of issues with this movie--plot holes, acting, and definitely the wardrobe, BUT I still really really enjoyed it. I practically adored it. Take note, for that is a rarity.

I only have a right to really jab at the wardrobe, since I'm not really a writer or an actor, so here goes.

Anything with a broken down, vulnerable, damaged Steve Carrell is a go for me, and from the minute we are introduced to his character, Cal, you feel sorry for him. I mean how can you not? His cheating wife is the drop dread gorgeous Julianne Moore. From his tattered white New Balance sneakers to his oversized "dad jeans", Cal is absolutely pathetic. (perfect so far) No wonder she cheated. Later, Cal meets Jacob (Ryan Gosling), whose entire wardrobe looks like tearsheets out of GQ. This is the point in the movie where I am smiling ear to ear. It reminds me why I love what I do. Jacob says to a defensive Cal, " You're sitting there with a SuperCuts haircut and you're wearing a 44 when you should be wearing a 42 regular". He then proceeds to take him shopping and gives him a full on closet makeover. As cheesy as it sounds, I really liked the shopping montage. Cal's makeover looked spectacular. I LOVE taking men shopping and just.....making them better, giving them some long lost confidence.

I started to have wardrobe issues when I realize that this is supposed to be an LA story. Although the movie was shot there, our characters definitely looked like they were living in some New England state. WHO, in SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA goes out in a minimum of FOUR layers of clothing?! IN SUMMER/FALL?! The children were dressed like they'd shopped out of a Lands End catalog, as were the rest of the children portrayed in the PUBLIC SCHOOL. Don't get me wrong. Everyone looked incredible, but the minute it was brought to my attention that this was in fact an LA story, the wardrobe immediately took me out of it. Hey, I still really loved the movie, k?

Okay I'm done with my criticisms. Um did you have a chance to see Gosling's bod?! Never really looked at this guy twice before but DAMN. He can get it. HE CAN GET IT!

Unexpected Shoegasm!

2011-08-05T20:34:00.000-07:00

Kudos to Payless for finally catching on like Target. They've joined in on selling collections from high profile designers at a consumer price. Guest designers include: Christian Siriano, Isabel Toledo, and now Silvia Tcherassi. I have to say, I'm very very impressed with the newest collections and am happy to be using them in my photoshoot tomorrow.
Seen above, the red and purple elastic strap high heeled sandal is a 80's/90's inspired design by Silvia Tcherassi. You'd better believe I made a bee line for it. $70 is a lot to pay at Payless, but I'm willing to shell that out. Those shoes have earned their price.

Savage Beauty

2011-07-27T22:55:00.000-07:00

I finally had a moment to see the Alexander McQueen exhibit at the Met. Absolutely stunning. My words cannot do his work any justice. The craftsmanship and originality was mind blowing. I felt my eyes welling up as we could see the destruction of his life taking over his designs. He was way before his time and will be worshipped as one of the greats. May the beauty of his work live on.

The Other MTV

2011-07-02T11:01:00.000-07:00

A couple months ago, I had the pleasure of Art Directing a lovely project for MTV. Say what you will about Viacom, but MTV has been a very very good company to me for the past 7 years. This particular project was sort of like a focus group aimed at the other female audiences; the ones who don't spray tan, the ones who are confused about their sexuality, the ones who grew up as victims of abuse or eating disorders, the ones who aren't popular in school. I think its smart of MTV to reach out to this side of the audience especially since bullying and suicide are on the continuous rise. Its good to provide an outlet for anyone/everyone and cater in a way that they can immediately relate.

Anyways, we created five or six very intimate settings for these interview with a selected group of girls who each fit into a category. Based on their stories, we created environments that describe pivotal moments in their lives. Here are a few images I was able to snap:

Finally, here is our wall of quotes from our girls. They were given away to all the guests for their refrigerators and other magnetic surfaces.

The Afterthought

2011-05-20T18:48:00.000-07:00

I don't think certain people will ever understand how important a costume really is.

"Its just clothes"

Um actually its so much more. A costume is the identity of the actor. Its the first thing we notice once they enter the stage or screen. What the actor wears on their person defines who they are, how important they are, etc.

"Well it shouldn't matter. If an actor is a true performer, he/she could perform in anything, regardless of clothing"

Okay, so an actor can portray a homeless person dying of AIDS in an Armani suit and alligator skin shoes? Prove me wrong. An actor wears the costume, but the costume defines the character. Both are important. There is no performance without one or the other. We depend on each other. Without the other, the performance is merely a table read or a lonely garment.

"We're gonna give more of your budget to Production Design. No worries, you can just pull from actors' closets"

I am so sick of having this same argument with directors and producers. How often do you walk into someone's closet and they happen to have exactly what the script calls for? You can't just assume actors or even designers just have costumes lying around waiting for the big break. UNACCEPTABLE. I understand Production Design is vital in creating this world but the people occupying the space need to look just as convincing. Be realistic when you come up with a costuming budget. Do not insult me/make yourself look amateur by saying things like that.

When designers are forced to work out of actors' closets, the performance has already been compromised. The actor is not in a costume at all. They are in their own clothes. This does not help them get into character at all, in fact it does the opposite. They're no longer acting, they're sort of just hanging out.

I'm designing an indie flick, and my budget has continued to shrink, while the lifestyles of the characters have gone from working class, to wealthy Upper East Side. Now there's a flashback to the 70's...and yet my budget keeps shrinking. I don't care if its 30 years ago, or just last season. The past is the past, therefore more expensive b/c its now considered vintage or antique or period.

We are not an afterthought, even though you treat us as such. We complete the actors' transformation. We make the world even more convincing. Do not take us for granted.

Marinate on that for a while.

They're Really Not "All Saints"

2011-04-23T19:42:00.000-07:00

I was very excited back when All Saints opened up in SoHo. Their displays alone are pretty incredible. I just did a job where I needed to do some heavy shopping there, and I gotta say I'm very disturbed with what I was told by their visual merchandizer.

Every single sewing machine on their humongous wall-o-Singers is a functioning machine. I guess that's pretty cool. Um but downstairs, they have another wall of miniature ram skulls. As I paid for my merchandise, I casually asked if they were real. The visual merchandizer said that it was funny I asked that. A scientist had just come in asking the same thing and was enraged at the fact that they are real. The rams are considered an endangered species!

I was told further into our conversation that All Saints gets these skulls from poachers. WTF?! The scientist made a a huge enough stink about it, so now if the employees damage the skulls, All Saints no longer orders from the poachers for a new skull. They simply tape them.

Its a shame they have a no refund policy. I had just purchased $3000 worth of merchandise, and hearing that made me want to leave, never come back and never spend any money there ever again.

Uh-Huh...Yeah

2011-04-23T19:21:00.000-07:00

So this is the guy who sat across from me on the train. Yep...that's a bathrobe he's wearing. It still has the price tag on it. He certainly doesn't look homeless. All I'm saying is, if this is the beginning of a new trend, I'm quittin' the business!

Shorts

2011-03-25T20:27:00.000-07:00

I told you I've been busy. LOL. Here's some stuff from the short films I've worked on.

First is the teaser trailer for "Flappy Hands". I Costume Designed and ended up producing as well. Designers and producers generally don't get along...its usually "Hey I'd like to make this look awesome for you so can I get a bigger budget?" "No."

I pretty much had to argue with myself and even hated myself at times. Never again. Just put me in the wardrobe trailer where I belong!

"Flappy Hands" - Teaser Trailer from Flappy Hands on Vimeo.

http://vimeo.com/21479981

Next, I was the makeup consultant for a piece that's currently untitled. I generally don't like to do makeup, but I'll do ghoulish things every once in a while:

latex and acrylic.

And finally, I designed costumes for a party scene that later turned into a blood bath. Rather than show you the soiled clothing, I'll just show you one of the "befores". Irma was a very thin, athletic girl. I changed that by putting her in elastic waisted acid wash jeans, horizontal striped tank, and an oversized 80's shirt. To insure that she didn't look like a hipster, I stuffed her pants to give her a gunt.

So sexy.

Wowie Zowie

2011-03-25T19:55:00.001-07:00

So, I was shopping for another job and came across these at H&M. I was slow to get on the jegging boat, but I draw the line at jegging boxer briefs for men! Just no. NOOOOOOOO!

Just Can't Let You Go

2011-03-25T19:02:00.000-07:00

What a busy week! I'm in the middle of designing THREE shows...on top of that, I styled a music video for Manika's new single "Just Can't Let You Go", featuring Lil Twist. I was particularly excited to be working with the legendary Travis Payne. In the short time I got to work with him, I have to say he's my new favorite director to work with. He had nothing but positive energy the entire time, was eager to take time and meet each crew member individually, and made sure to thank everyone at least three times on set. He knew exactly what shots he wanted, and expressed a clear vision from the very beginning for what kind of look he was going for.

You can find out why I was so excited and why I consider him a legend, here.

Music Videos are one of the most stressful and miserable sets to work on. The hours are at least 16 hours minimum, with a crappy rate. This one was definitely the exception. I won't get into the financial logisitics, but I will say that the actual shoot was about six hours--A NEW WORLD RECORD!

Both of the performers were very very young and surprisingly sweet, particularly Lil Twist. He actually called me "ma'am". I just hope the fame doesn't warp their semi-innocent but very naive minds.

I got those babies for the shoot from Barney's. They were a specific request and they were practically impossible to find. I think I went to like 8 different stores. Aren't they fab?! They're from John Varvatos for Converse. The shoe is a shiny beat up coated material with studded ankles...only $200!!

I'm gonna take a second to share something one of the production assistants said to me on set. He said, "I'm pretty sure you're my favorite stylist I've ever worked with. Ever."

Me: "For real? Cool. How come?"

He replied, "You treat us like people, I mean please and thank you go a long way. You're not snobby at all, you don't act like you're the hot shit on set, you don't demand that we do everything for you. You're just cool".

Wow. Please and thank you?? I've been around lots of other stylists and designers...and I have to admit I've witnessed plenty of diva-like behavior. If I can leave you with one thing, it is the reminder that EVERY crew member is equally important and deserves the same amount of respect as the director, the keys, and talent. I don't care who you are, you need to always thank who you're working with. Travis Payne is a prime example of that. He was loved and adored by everyone on set and that itself made the whole shoot roll smoothly.

Made Over/Shameless Self Promotion

2011-03-19T20:42:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I gave a wardrobe makeover to a hilarious young man. My client (whom I will refer to as Louie) started out with a 38" waist and an XL/XXL tshirt size. With the help of diet and exercise--NO EATING DISORDERS OR STUPID FASTS AND/OR PILLS, he has successfully shrunken down to a waist size between 34" and 36" and a MEDIUM tshirt size. I am so proud of him, especially for doing it the right way.

Louie is a budding comedian and has been looking to change his look and get healthy. He contacted me and asked how much he would need to get a wardrobe makeover since nothing of his fit anymore. I told him $200 would be enough to start and that I was pretty good at staying on budget.

Let me just say, that with that $200, we got:

-2 pairs of shorts

-5 tshirts

-2 polos

-3 dress shirts

-1 cardigan

-3 day shirts

Everything was brand new, none of it was purchased second hand or via thrift.

I know how to shop. I'm good at giving wardrobe makeovers. I stay on budget. If you need my services, contact me via my website: http://www.xtinakim.com.

Pictures of Louie's Before and After coming soon!

The Shaft

2011-03-06T22:22:00.001-08:00

First off, forgive me if the format is a bit off. As I mentioned before, we got rid of our Internet so updates are not as frequent. That being said, I just downloaded a new blogging app for my phone...testing it out tonight and the reviews for this app havent too positive. We shall see.

So, the oscars were last week. I have to say, Colleen Atwood's acceptance speech made me not like her. She was dressed as the poor man's Stifler's mom and seemed extremely ungrateful. It's the same four women nominated every year for period pieces or a Tim Burton flick. That being said, I feel like Burlesque got shafted on costume nomination! Dude, you may not have cared for the story or anything else in that movie, but you cannot deny the incredible beauty and craftsmanship of those costumes.

I feel like everyone who watched The Social Network in the theater has been completely brainwashed. What's up with all those nominations?? Congrats to Trent Reznor for his win, but that score was pretty mediocre. In fact, mediocre is my word for describing that movie. It's a celebration of lazy filmmaking and I'm quite offended that people are praising it this much. What was up with that wardrobe?! Gross! I get what they were going for, but there is a MUCH better way to achieve it. This industry is disappointing me a lot lately ...so is the audience. Cmon brothers and sisters. WE ARE BETTER THAN THIS

Heads on Heads

2011-02-25T11:22:00.000-08:00

Okay so this whole animal head winter hat trend has GOT TO GO. It really creeps me out. It reminds me of that scene in Tropic Thunder (God bless that movie) where Ben Stiller's character accidentally slaughters a baby panda and wears its head. If anything, I support the team that wears hats with ears. Much cuter, much friendlier, and far far less creepy.

January's Globes

2011-01-22T13:58:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the lack of updates...we got rid of our internet service so I'm sort of mooching off of the library whenever I can.

I figured I'd at least blog about January Jones while the Golden Globes were still relevant. Did you see her dress?!?!?! INCREDIBLE. BEAUTIFUL. WOW.

Perfect combination of sexy and classic.

Say what you will about Ricky Gervais...I think he's hilarious and was quite entertained by him.

Stay Cool. Be Warm.

2010-12-24T20:15:00.000-08:00

I'm a fan of cold weather. I know. I'm quite the rare breed. What I'm not a fan of, is looking 40 pounds heavier due to excess layering and/or spending hundreds of dollars on like 2 expensive thin layering pieces that don't even work. Enter Uniqlo's Heat Tech.

Totally fashionable AND totally affordable, Uniqlo's Heat Tech collection always draws the crowds every year. They have all kinds of heat generating pieces: Socks, leggings, jeans, short sleeve shirts, spaghetti strap shirts, long sleeve shirts, gloves, scarves, leg warmers, underwear, coats---anything you can imagine. I mean most of it feels thinner than silk and some of that Under Armour stuff, but somehow it keeps me so warm, I practically sweat!

With stylish colors and patterns and nothing costing over $40, I promise you'll be satisfied, insanely warm, and pretty damn stylish.

Smells

2010-12-02T21:06:00.000-08:00

Ladies and gentlemen--especially gentlemen:

You stink. Like seriously, you really stink. You're probably in denial b/c you're used to how you smell, and your significant other is either used to it , or just too nice/scared to tell you. I've dressed a lot of people who are considered famous. Most of them smelled pretty nice but there's a select few who would really reek in certain areas of their garments. It never failed: the stench of pure rotten onions, old cabbage soup and/or a polluted ocean permeated the dressing room and singed my nose hairs. Some people can't help it. There's an allergy to lanolin, aluminum, fragrance, basically anything that would help with one's body odor.

I'm here to help.

You don't have to do all of the things listed below, but a combination of 1 or 2 could really change your life...who knows you may see yourself getting laid for once/more often. <--ZING!

1.) This one is the absolute must. Make sure your garments are machine washable. Buy yourself a large jug of white vinegar. The most I've ever paid is $3.00. Soak the garments in the vinegar for 1-2 hours. Do not worry about damaging the material. White vinegar actually sets dye which prevents fading. Its one of those weird phenomenons where its strong enough to kill bad odors and remove stains, but too weak to damage clothing. Oh yeah, that's right. White vinegar also removes stains! Anyways, once you're done soaking, toss your garments in the wash like normal. If its really bad, you may have to do this a couple times.

2.) Watch what you eat and drink. Ever smell a drunk person? Their pores are sweating all that goodness onto their clothes. It doesn't smell sexy at all. Same goes with fried foods and certain vegetables. Certain fabrics aren't so easy to treat, and once they absorb an odor, its going to get pretty expensive to get that odor out. Hello drycleaning bill...

3.) Be tidy. When you come home, don't put your clothes in a pile on the floor, especially if you plan on wearing them again before adding them into the laundry load. Hang them up so the garments can air out. Spray some Downey Wrinkle Release or Febreeze, so you'll at least wear the illusion of cleanliness. If you're allergic, here's an old trick we did for the ballet: VODKA. Buy yourself a cheap well vodka and put a few shots in a spray bottle. Lightly spritz the garment and it will neutralize any odors. This also works well on shoes.

4.) If you're one who perspires on the heavy side, I suggest you wear dress shields or panty liners in your shirts, dresses, and jackets. Insert them under your pits. Its a very discreet and inexpensive way to keep your nice clothes from getting damaged. If you sweat in other places, rub generous amounts of baby powder on the area. This also prevents chaffing.

*Sweating is very good for you by the way. It's your body's way of flushing out toxins. Unfortunately, it's just bad for your clothes.

5.) This one doesn't really have anything to do with smells...just a nifty laundry tip. Wash your clothes in COLD water. Studies show that the water temperature has no effect on the amount of bacteria that's washed away in the spin cycle. This is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint AND you won't risk damaging and shrinking your clothes.

I was inspired to type this after getting my costumes back from a show I closed. 3 days later, I regained consciousness and began Project: Smell Good. Unfortunately some pieces just weren't salvageable. I'm not giving up though. I will make them smell better.

Keep smellin' pretty, yall.

Love Letter

2010-12-01T19:18:00.001-08:00

I doubt my blog will ever reach Miss Ann, but I don't care. She deserves this.

To the lovely Miss Ann Ward,

At 6'2 and roughly 98 pounds, you are absolutely stunning. The rush of excitement and pride filled my living room when Tyra Banks revealed that you had in fact won the title of America's Next Top Model. Tears of joy rolled down my cheeks as you finally embraced the fact that you--yes YOU are beautiful, and beautiful enough to be given that title.

It makes me so sad that you had to endure such a painful childhood over something you had absolutely no control over. I myself was constantly tormented by my own family and classmates for being different, and am still struggling to this day. I admire you for having such a close relationship with your family and remaining strong enough to get to where you are today. I think you photograph beautifully and and everything about you is absolutely amazing. I hope one day I am lucky enough to dress you or even just be graced by your presence.

Ann, you are a one in a million kind of girl and I can't wait to see your Vogue spread. Do not let anyone ever make you feel small for being so tall, and always remind yourself that you are beautiful.

Thanks for being different and awesome.

-Xtina

Sock it to Me!

2010-11-27T19:35:00.000-08:00

Guys.

I judge them all the time. From hairstyles, to eyebrows, teeth, body hair, even down to their shoes, I'm always looking, always judging. Terrible right? Hey, I'm only human...a lady human...who happens to dress folks for a living.

Lately I've found myself gazing at men's socked feet. I'm so tired of athletic white, business black, thermal gray and everything else in the like. Give me some patterns! Guys, you don't have to be afraid to get funky even if you represent the white collar industry. In fact, I think its quite attractive to see a man in a plain solid suit with some electric colored or hip patterned socks peeking out. It makes me wonder what his life is like after hours. Don't give me that whole "this looks too fem" anxiety...a real man is confident sporting anything in every color and every cut.

This is a nice affordable way to change your wardrobe. Its the ideal way for those who want to get a wardrobe makeover at a much slower pace to test if this is in fact "a good change".

As a woman, the only white socks I have are the tubed kind from the 70's-usually worn with roller skates. The rest are all hot pink, checkered, Christmas, etc. They seldom match, and I'm quite happy about that. The rest of me (ankles/knees up) will always blend in with the rest of this world--no matter how hard I strive to be an individual, I've concluded someone is always wearing something breakthrough I think I've created myself. My socks however, are a personal statement, only privileged to those who have gained that right. *wink *wink

Got Shingles?

2010-11-25T21:21:00.000-08:00

Last week I did a night shoot for a shingles vaccine. Wardrobe was for middle aged regular people. Refreshing. It was fun. I bought tons of chenille sweaters and grandfather vests. In the midst of my travels, I came across this:

Michael Kors, what on earth would possess you to "design" (if you could even call it that) this monstrosity?! Alright I gotta admit, I feel like most of his designs look pretty cheap. But THIS...THIS takes the cake! This piece should be used as part of a fixer upper challenge for Project Runway...and that's putting it nicely

Anyways, the night shoot was entertaining. The client was extremely naive and had some rather interesting demands. For example, the shoot took place in a pharmacy, so we prepped labcoats for pharmacists. A pharmacist labcoat is shortsleeved, half length, and sometimes has a zipfront. The client actually demanded we take a regular doctor labcoat (longsleeved, full length) and shorten it for the pharmacist. Yes, its inaccurate. I have no idea why she wanted it that way. Rumor on set was that it was her first time directing a shoot.

What I'm getting at, is that I'm pretty good at performing little miracles. Check out mah labcoat tailorin' skills below:

And for my next miracle, I had to dress this big guy here. He wasn't difficult at all. I had the perfect piece. A chenille Cosby sweater. Look how happy he looks to be dressed by me!

80's Peace

2010-11-24T23:44:00.000-08:00

Yeah, the pun's totally intended. I've been busy this month. Most of my time was devoted to designing and dressing a stageplay set in the 80's....2 of the actors were actually offended by their costumes. I suppose I should've expected this, since they're under 24...

I mean seriously, what were they expecting?! There were tantrums galore. Granted there were MC Hammer pants and neon onesies but C'MON IT WAS THE 80's!

It was a tragic time for fashion. Anyone with half a brain would know that.

Shoulder pads, acid wash, rolled sleeves, crimped hair, aqua net, pat benatar...should I continue? I did have a blast dressing this show, and in the end everyone was appreciative. Next time I'm just gonna start tazin' folks.

Mas Agua

2010-10-21T09:05:00.000-07:00

I finally got some more photos from the underwater shoot.

The Better Week

2010-10-15T22:21:00.000-07:00

This week was way more awesome compared to last week. On Tuesday, I assisted an absolutely lovely stylist who specializes in the vintage world. Check out those vintage Prada loafers! I couldn't keep my eyes off of them. Wantwantwant! Hopefully I'll get photos from that shoot soon.

I also just wrapped up a job for The Vampire Diaries as a costume buyer. I spent like 14g's for two actresses for the upcoming season. I don't watch the show, but I guess I'll have to watch the one coming up. I was working with some fierce and fabulous bitches! One designed Entourage, and the other designed The Wrestler. They're totally down to earth, which was surprising b/c they're from LA. LOL.

The Bitter Old Queen

2010-10-14T21:13:00.000-07:00

So last week I had the displeasure of working with a first timer, who I will now refer to as "The Idiot". She was absolutely hideous to me and to top things off, she was younger than me (this is valid since I'm under 30). The Idiot's motto for me for the entire shoot was "Um well this is my first gig ever, so you do it". It was for a large campaign and I am still dumbfounded as to how she landed that gig. This was my second time assisting a newbie and then it hit me: Production Companies are hiring girls fresh out of Fashion School for a lower rate and smaller budgets. This cannot continue. They're taking our key union gigs! Look, I'm all for progression in the field and young people being given opportunities, but there's an order to it all. Paying dues, interning, assisting, etc.

This doesn't just go for my department. SAG actors are dealing with this as well. Just because you have a pretty face doesn't mean you deserve roles/jobs meant for those who have worked so hard to get here.

My costume stock dressed the majority of the talent and I was never recognized or even thanked for that. Instead, the director praised The Idiot for her"genius".

I know you're sensing envy and bitterness but the truth of the matter is, if you can't fill out a timecard correctly, and you don't know what strobing and greeking mean, you probably aren't ready to be keying your own jobs yet. You will be at some point, but just not now. GO TRAIN and BE HUMBLE ABOUT IT.

There are 4 things wrong with this timecard...

Well Hello, Karma

2010-10-03T21:38:00.000-07:00

Thank you, Star Magazine. You totally made my day. This was one of the outfits I was "against"...and it was her "fav". Hey, she wanted to look c*nt, and she certainly got what she wanted. In KLS's defense though, she did get us paid on time. Well played.

Caption: Sometimes less is more-and the Twilight hottie proves it! With a sleek updo, bare legs and sharp patent pumps, she lets the Hervé Léger by Max Azria mini speak for itself. Kimora's opaque tights and thigh-high boots drag the look down.

Highlights from The Brooks Brothers Shoot

2010-09-25T19:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we went to Eastern Long Island to shoot the Brooks Brothers Kids Catalog.

It was an absolutely beautiful location, with lots of trees and lakes and....beagles!

Some highlights:

French Model: For the longest time I thought LOL meant "Lots of Love" instead of "Laugh Out Loud"and signed everything with it. I never understood why people kept calling me insensitive until I put LOL on a card I sent to a funeral.

Makeup Artist's Boyfriend: Its amazing. I'm looking at you right now and you look like you should have some sort of Asian accent. But then I hear you're from TN and I feel like you should have a southern American accent, but you don't. You just sound American. You're just some sort of an enigma! Amazing!

I tried to make a joke about the actual group, Enigma, but that failed miserably. Something about returning to innocence. Lots of crickets chirping there.

Honestly though, I'm quite disappointed in the upcoming line. The attached photo is what a typical Brooks Brothers Kids spread would look like. But its not going to look like that at all. They hired an outside "guest" designer for the season and it all looks and feels so cheap. One outfit consisted of yellow plaid shorts with a navy tshirt with the logo leaning towards the Quiksilver logo....ick. It basically looks like something from sales rack at Old Navy....in 1997. I have always loved the classic, crisp, clean look of Brooks Brothers, and I feel like trying to "hip it up" is so not merited. I'm not alone in this btw. I overheard the rest of the team badmouthing said designer for her horrible attitude and bastardization of the Brooks Brothers look. LOL!

Ahhh Christmas Sweaters Won't Leave Me Alone!

2010-09-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

So, this past week I helped dress a commercial for Boston Market (previously known as Boston Chicken). They are promoting turkey for the holidays. Hooray...ish.

We shopped and shopped and shopped, only to be told later that the client all of a sudden wanted Norwegian Holiday sweaters. This is why I hate dressing commercials. Great money, and its for a week max, but there's always some extremely unattractive but super wealthy bitter idiot in the client group who wants to flex their balls.

We were already shooting so I basically had to go out and find as many as I could and be back in under 3 hours.

The kicker: I had to send pictures of myself wearing said sweaters so that the client could pick out the best one.

I ended up getting kicked out of several vintage stores, since they don't allow photos. $350 later, I walked in itchy as hell and presented the sweaters to a group of unimpressed individuals who later decided not to go for a sweater after all.

How cute.

"That's so c*nt!"

2010-09-15T09:07:00.000-07:00

Quick....what hot mess eats 4 lunches a day and goes around saying "OMG that's so cunt," and "Make me look cunt"? Um this one:

This is one MEAN woman. I helped dress her for Fashion Week. I had to drive to Russell Simmons's house every morning (which is in NJ) just to get her dressed in clothes brought in from the city. Um in case you're not understanding the math here, Fashion Week is IN THE CITY. At the Zac Posen show, she suddenly had a craving for a gyro and all the poor PAs were scrambling to get it to her. Well it turns out 2 minutes isn't fast enough and the PA who brought it to her was fired.

This lady has a daily grocery demand of 200 items roughly totaling to $1000. Some of the items include:

Christmas Napkins

Paper Plates

Plastic Cutlery

Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Tide Detergent

Truvia (she was on a Splenda kick, but now she's converted)

Cashew Chews

Myoplex

I don't remember the rest, but if you think about it, they shoot the show for like 3 months or something and she demands all that stuff EVERYDAY. If one item is missing she goes ballistic. She probably knows her career is almost over especially since she just got fired from Baby Phat. She's known to fire people who are prettier than her, and its already happened. It wasn't me though--even though I'm way hotter than her LOL.

The key stylist has to try on all the clothes, take pictures of herself in them, and then either email the photos or give the camera phone to Kimora's assistant, who then shows them to Kimora and lets her pick. I am not joking. Her kids order $100 worth of sushi for a SNACK. Not lunch, or dinner but a SNACK--and most of it gets thrown out.

Her entourage gave me my 3pm calltime at 1:30am, then called me while I was asleep at 7am to come in 7 hours earlier than expected because Kimora felt like it.

Thankfully Fashion Week is now over and I no longer have to drive to Russell's house because one more day of that garbage and I would've shat on their floor.

Da Muthaload

2010-09-02T21:15:00.000-07:00

So I just wrapped an awesome gig.

It was a catalog job for Stage Store's After Thanksgiving Sale.

Yeah I've never heard of them either...I think they're popular in like Texas or something. The clothes cater to mostly Southerners and Midwesterners.

It was an awesome gig. Let's start with the attached photo...he wasn't one of our models, but his face definitely captures my glee. YES. We shot Christmas sweaters---not only that but they were paired with elastic waist jeans! Oh happy, happy me. No one one set could understand why I loved that so much. They sort of concluded that its because I'm a hipster.

I am not a hipster. Death to hipsters.

I like campy things...geez. If only John Waters was on set. He'd understand. Le sigh...

Anyways, Day 1 consisted of the makeup artist chasing me around speaking in Italian and confusing the hell out of me, "Ah Chrrrrrrristina! asklfjsfa;sjteitojaiaj;igajwg y MEOW MEOW MEOW!" Yes, there certainly was a lot of meowing that day...I never quite figured out what any of it meant.

Today (Day 4) was hectic. I dressed an 18 month old who took a liking to me, particularly my boobs. I held her and she kept pulling down my shirt and bra and flashing the crew. When I tried to put her down, she freaked out and demanded I pick her back up. She eventually had to get re-cast.

I'm also double-dipping at the moment...as in I'm doing two jobs at the same time. I'm in the middle of designing some outfits for the MTV VMAS...not terribly stressful. I've worked with MTV and they've been really good to me. I dressed the VMAs last year, and they really liked me which is why I got invited to come back. I just have a little extra pressure because I'm having to re-design a Taco Bell logo and screen print it onto some shirts...dun-dun

I kinda wish I kept one of the sweaters.

Breathless

2010-08-26T15:31:00.001-07:00

I got up at 4:30am on Monday to go to Connecticut for an underwater shoot.

Members of the New York City Ballet were being photographed in high fashion couture while moving underwater.

I swear I'm not that fat. I had to wear a huge weight to keep myself underwater so I could pull the material down.

It rained all day and the photographer wasn't very nice...actually his wife was afraid I was going to pee in the pool. She totally singled me out. Just for that I should've peed in the pool.

Anyways, here's a preview.

Workin' On the Railroad...

2010-08-26T15:12:00.000-07:00

My dear sweet blog,

I'm so sorry I have neglected you. I got busy for a second. This industry is getting bad. I did a job for a major TV network and the pay was insulting. It was quite unorganized but the director was pretty cool. We talked about the Goonies a lot. The designer was a bit of an idiot. I think a memorable quote was maintained from one of the days we were talking about the type of work we were involved in. I was honest and said that I don't have an interest in fashion, but rather I want to dress projects that depend on building a character. It gives me a chance to be creative. She replied, "Oh wow. I haven't been trained to be creative so I just stick to what I know".....um and what pray tell is that?!

Anyways, I worked with some interesting talent. One was very sweet and flirted a bit, but was a jerk to his fans. One was just an all around douchebag...in fact I don't think anybody really liked him. One was all about getting to know my department, but was very "L.A.". And finally, one was an attention hog...claimed to have been a cheerleader in high school who made fun of people like me. Yeah...she was a huge disappointment. Ah well...that's why the person she was mean to on another show is on an award winning series, and well she's just barely getting by.

I'm not bitter...but seriously who says that to someone dressing them?! "oh yeah...I definitely would've made fun of you in high school"...okay thanks for that since I was probably a wee one still sucking at the teet while you were off being a jerk.

Pity Me, 'Cuz I'm a Fool!

2010-07-08T20:29:00.000-07:00

Dang...all this time I thought I was being creative. Come to find out Mr. T done beat me to it over 20 years ago. From feather jewelry to gold chains, you gotta admit T puts together a pretty fly look.

Wow, W.O.W!

2010-06-12T19:55:00.001-07:00

We're in the review! I'm actually mentioned by name and everything...weird and exciting at the same time. Thanks to everyone who came out and supported us! Oh and thank you for the compliments on my costumes. Photos coming soon!

excerpt from http://www.broadwayworld.com/blogs/viewblog.cfm?blogid=2775

For the Actor/Actress in Your Life

2010-06-03T09:52:00.000-07:00

So someone in your life wants to get into acting...uh huh that's always good.

Be sure to show them this blog and maybe they'll come to their senses. J/K...a little. Seriously though, the following is a checklist of things actors/actress should have in their closets.

1. Wedding bands: gold AND silver

They don't have to be the real thing...you can get these out of the quarter machine at the grocery store.

2. Jeans: the fancy kind AND the lounge kind

We all know its hard to find a pair of jeans that look and feel JUST RIGHT. Options, people. Options.

3. Men: You must have some suits!

Its just like my argument with jeans.

4. Ladies: NUDE UNDERGARMENTS! Extra brownie points if you also have Strapless & Spanx!

5. Men: You'd better own more than one type of underwear...briefs, boxers, boxer briefs, manthongs...i mean it!

6. Nice solids--as in NO patterns, logos or plaids, and make sure they're trendy.

7. Glasses: a hip pair and a really ugly pair; nothing too over the top--make sure they are anti-glare

8. Belts! Men: black, brown, canvas, white, etc. Women: thin ones and chunky ones

9. Men: make sure you have some dress shirts--especially if you have irregular sleeve/neck sizes

10. HONESTY. When you lie about your size, you're not just lying to me. You're lying to the entire production, which sets everyone back. Don't be self conscious, b/c in this industry that equals selfishness. I had a woman tell me she was a size 8...in real life she was a size 12. I had shopped over $3,000 worth of size 8 merchandise for a commercial, only to have a very irritated director, producer and clients because the talent couldn't fit into anything.

11. Any sort of unique piece is always good to bring to a fitting as long as it goes with the palette/period.

So you're probably asking yourself: "Um why should I have to provide everything in the list above? You're the effing wardrobe stylist/designer...isn't it your job to have all that?"

Its my job to provide what the director envisions the talent to be wearing. Its the talent's job to already own staples in their own personal wardrobe that fit and have been molded for their particular body type. I can't fit you for a ring or underwear and it takes a while to dye and/or age garments. A lot of times, directors prefer the worn in look. Keep that in mind before you decide to argue this list.

Just remember I'm trying to help!

Side Hustle

2010-06-01T20:43:00.000-07:00

I think a while back I mentioned being commissioned to make a bunch of Star Wars costumes for some kids...15 to be exact...which then turned into an additional 2 adult costumes. Anyways, my client was quite pleased and sent me this lovely video from "The Battle". Enjoy!

PS-If you want custom made gear for your kids, hit me up!

Canon Photoshoot

2010-05-31T21:41:00.001-07:00

I finally got a copy from the photoshoot I dressed for Canon. I had to blowdry that tux over and over again due to multiple takes. We shot this at Barbetta, NYC's oldest single family owned restaurant. It is absolutely beautiful and romantic. I highly recommend going on a date there.

Anyways, back to me...look for this photo in all sorts of magazines! Thanx for all the support!

That Other Christina...

2010-05-27T10:16:00.000-07:00

Alright, I'm not intentionally trying to sound like a hater here, but since I finally have a second to breathe, I'm going to address something that's not important at all.

Christina Aguilera needs to fire everyone and start from scratch. I've never really cared for her music, but the poor thing never had a chance, and now she's cancelled her big tour. The girl can sing--I mean what an amazing voice! But somehow she's been screwed since the very beginning of her career. Her image and her music have always been carbon copies of the latest and hottest chart toppers. She's copied Britney, Madonna, Marilyn, Lil Kim, and now Gaga. Always in another blonde's shadow...I'm sure its not her fault. Its whoever is running her career. **I do realize that pop music is indeed carbon copies galore but this is a very special [and BLATANT] case.

Hey Christina, fire him/her and yo entire crew! Lemme help you! I specialize in results! I wanna give you a FRESH, ORIGINAL look. You know where to find me...

Wonder of the World

2010-05-22T06:42:00.000-07:00

I'm designing a show. You should come watch. Its the one mentioned in my previous blog: "Stirring Crazy". Its still stressing me out, but we got a new director and he's absolutely wonderful. The propmaster is also a gem. Come. Watch. And later: drinkskies.

Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at http://www.MoxieStreetPictureShows.com

See you there!

Shoes...

2010-05-21T21:00:00.000-07:00

I helped dress a Shoe Carnival commercial. Color palette: GREY. It was all about the shoes. It was actually quite beautiful, one of the best lit sets I've ever stepped onto. Um they asked me to be in it...after I agreed to it, I was informed that I would be in JEGGINGS. Nooooooo! I had to wear jeggings and stand on a skateboard suspended midair. Painful. Physically and visually.

I left my home at 4:45am, and go home at 1:30am. Thank God for overtime.

Stirring Crazy

2010-05-17T18:02:00.000-07:00

pure craziness....

I'm designing my first Off-Broadway show and its been insane. Opening night is less than 5 days away and our director got fired, my dresser quit, and I think we may have lost one of our leads. That last one I don't know for sure b/c I've been elsewhere working on another gig. I told you. Pure craziness.

Time Traveler Captured in Museum Photograph

2010-04-18T11:10:00.000-07:00

When you look at most of the two dozen or so people in this photograph, which belongs to a Canadian museum, there's no doubt that they're from 1940, the year in which it was taken. But what about that guy?

Those funky sunglasses? That stamped t-shirt and hippie shawl? The doofy, disinterested expression? He sure as hell doesn't look like any Roosevelt-era bro I have ever seen. Maybe that's just it—he looks like a "bro," which we all know didn't come into existence until the 1970s, at the earliest.

Forgetomori has an extensive analysis of the photo and the mystery man, and, with some help from members of ATS, points out that no single item of his wardrobe is technically out of period.

But his entire essence, especially in contrast to the sea of fedoras and 1940s enthusiasm around him, screams that he's from another era entirely. Sorry, time travel bro, you've been spotted. [Forgetomori via BoingBoing]

http://gizmodo.com/5519660/time-traveler-captured-in-museum-photograph

Its Almost May Already?!

2010-04-17T06:54:00.000-07:00

WOW. I can't believe its almost May. Blog, I am so sorry to have neglected you. I've just been so busy. I'll be posting pictures soon. In the past month I've been working on an upcoming steampunk shoot, designing a wedding dress, costume designing & producing my friend's indie flick, styling a Canon ad, working post at a production company, and still apprenticing at the tailor. Ah crap I gotta go. I'm late for work!!

The Apprentice

2010-03-05T20:50:00.000-08:00

I'm finally pursuing one of my goals, and that is learning the art of custom tailoring. I am apprenticing at Charlie's Custom Tailor. My mentor is young but very old school about his teachings. Like today for example, he tied my "thimbled" middle finger to my right palm, and I had to keep it like that and work for 8 hours. This was especially difficult because I am left handed. It was so frustrating because I couldn't stitch in a straight line due to my handicap. No gripes here though. The pain goes away after a nice "fanger massage" but the knowledge I gain will stay with me forever. Muahahahahaha.

The Thrill of Twill

2010-02-19T17:53:00.000-08:00

Non-union 18 hour days are for the birds. My body isn't what it used to be. I can't believe I've needed this entire day to recuperate. Yesterday's gig wasn't for wardrobe though. No, it was a trip back to my old life which was in the props department. It was a nice reminder as to why I chose to leave that career and pursue this one. The photographer was a total cunt. Thanks to my iPod and deep comedic sarcasm, I was able to keep the rest of the crew in good spirits. *Note to all of you who work on photo shoots (w/o video component), the "Oldies" playlist NEVER fails to keep the entire crew happy [enough].

Our work will be in the April or May issue of Twill magazine. I know...I've never heard of it either. Hahahaha I'll post tear sheets if I ever get them!

Seinfeld Quote

2010-02-13T07:57:00.000-08:00

When the Seinfeld show was in its prime, I was a huge fan. Back then it was so witty and smart, yet so ridiculous. I'm not here to "deepen" the teachings of Seinfeld though. I just wanted to share this awesome quote Jerry had regarding fashion:

"I hate clothes, okay? I hate buying them. I hate picking them out of my closet. I can't stand every day trying to come up with little outfits for myself. I think eventually fashion won't even exist. It won't. I think eventually we'll all be wearing the same thing. 'Cause anytime I see a movie or a TV show where there's people from the future of another planet, they're all wearing the same thing. Somehow they decided 'This is going to be our outfit. One-piece silver jumpsuit, V-stripe, and boots. That's it.' We should come up for an outfit for earth. An earth outfit. We should vote on it. Candidates propose different outfits, no speeches. They walk out, twirl, walk off. We just sit in the audience and go, 'That was nice. I could wear that.'"

-from Season 2, the Jacket Episode

Well said, Mr. Seinfeld.

Of course I'm not really surprised...this coming from a guy who dissed the puffy pirate shirt. He's such a hater! I loved that shirt!

The World Has Lost a Genius

2010-02-11T09:59:00.000-08:00

This is so sad.

Today, Lee McQueen, founder/designer of the Alexander McQueen brand was found dead at his home. McQueen was only 40 years old and apparently committed suicide. The devastating news follows the passing of his mother last week and just three years after his good friend Isabella Blow committed suicide. There are only a handful of members of the fashion industry who truly inspire me, and McQueen was definitely one of them. May his legacy live on.

GTL

2010-02-02T20:58:00.000-08:00

Last Friday I shopped for an event I styled this evening. The budget was microscopic. But the client was clear that they needed white headphones on these people and seeing as those things cost <$90, I ended up doing the next best(?) thing. I went to Chinatown and bought some for $10 AND spray painted them white over the weekend. I can't believe I ever huffed that stuff as a teen. What an idiot! My home still smells funky and my face still hurts. ****If you ever need to spray paint anything plastic, do not get conned into buying special spray paint that bonds to plastic. It does not bond and leaves a disgusting finish. In fact it leaves residue everywhere and its super sticky.***Luckily I was able to sweet talk everyone into wearing them but still beware...

*I have to wait to retrieve photos of the people I dressed from the press photographer. You know how that goes. I'll be lucky if I get them at all.*

Anyways, there were some interesting folks at the event tonight:

Nick Cannon-all I could keep replaying in my head was "Leave me & mah new daddy alone!" from Chappelle's Show....ah pure comic gold.

Kim Stolz-quite possibly one of the hottest America's Next Top Model contestants ever

Quest Crew-I've worked with these guys several times before they hit fame on ABDC and its so great to see them reaching such great heights

Sway-I have dreams where he lets down his dreads for me (;

Usher-he performed...IN HAREM PANTS. He looked like a cheap MC Hammer imitation.

Pete Wentz-he got fat...and stupider.

DJ Cassidy spinned tonight and his demands were: apple juice, skittles, nerds and airheads. That man's teeth are going to rot out.

There were some cast member of the Real World/Road Rules and the Hills and some other people I don't really care to remember.

Last but not least there was the cast of Jersey Shore. I got asked to stick around and be one of the photographers to shoot folks with the cast. Of course I jumped at the chance! I was finally going to have a moment with my crush The Situation! He ended up being late but that's okay. PaulyD ended up pointing his beady little eyes at mines and I think my feelings have now shifted. Hahahahaha. The girls are pretty terrible. JWoww has no business being a bitch....her fatass couldn't even zip her dress all the way up AND it was ripping. NOT ATTRACTIVE. Noticeably missing was Snooki's Bump-It. What night w/ the Jersey Shore cast would be complete without a fight? 2 grown women got in a huge brawl--hair pulling and drink throwing, with a boyfriend (who was SO angry his eyes were actually crossed) getting escorted out...these people were executives...classy ones.

quick Grammy thoughts

2010-02-01T19:11:00.000-08:00

the Grammys are weird. Taylor Swift + Fleetwood Mac? no thank you. lets keep 'em separate.

wyclef annoys me. always has, always will.

john legend looks 12 w/ that haircut and should always have facial hair.

w/ the exception of some, i prefer Grammy dresses to be SHORT, and hair worn down or loose.

i liked whatever MJ's kids were wearing.

the black eyed peas would be great if fergie and will.i.am didn't exist.

i don't like being able to see Lady Gaga's eyebrows and forehead. kinda scares me.

LOVES me some MAXWELL

01272010

2010-01-27T08:46:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the January 27th club. In this club we have:

GE Smith,

Alan Cumming,

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart,

Sabu,

Lewis Carroll,

Tricky,

Bridget Fonda,

Frank Miller,

John Witherspoon, and me with no pants on with roller skates.

At the party there will be roller skates, disco, a kiddie pool, karaoke, a chuck norris cake, and lots of cartoon jugs of booze.

Lemme just say that having the same birthday as John Witherspoon (mah fantasy father) sends me to the moon!

The Big Bang Theory

2010-01-25T19:18:00.000-08:00

Wow can I just say that this is a very well dressed cast? The Big Bang Theory comes on Monday nights on CBS, and its about 4 nerds and a hot ditzy blonde. Yeah I wasn't really interested when I first heard about it either, but after watching a couple episodes I'm able to conclude that I am quite jealous of how these guys get to dress!

Johnny Glaecki plays Leonard. He's always seen in some thick black rimmed glasses, mostly earth tones with tshirts layered with hoodies, layered with army jackets.

Jim Parsons plays Sheldon and he's my favorite. He's always in bright graphic tees with cool images like dinosaurs or the SMPTE color bars. Usually layered with another long sleeved tee underneath. Always in hyper colors.

Simon Helburg plays Howard who looks like he just stepped out of the 70s. Lots of bright colored turtlenecks under the same colored shirt with matching pants and an awesome embroidered belt.

Kunal Nayyar plays Raj. Bright track jackets and sweatervests and bright tees.

I suppose I should mention Kaley Cuoco who plays Penny...she dresses like a normal girl who plays someone trying to become an actress...nothing really wows me...but I guess that would be the biggest compliment to the costume designer. I was once told "When people don't notice anything about the character you've dressed, then you've done your job. That means you've made the character into a human being." Well done. Does that mean not so well done on the 4 nerds then? Because those nerds dress way too hip to be real nerds. Man Hollywood nerds are way too glamorized...still thats a really good looking cast. Just sayin'.

Helping Haiti

2010-01-18T17:53:00.000-08:00

This doesn't really have anything to do with style but I feel that with what's happened, its necessary to do all we can, whenever wherever. I helped a fellow stylist put together a charity event to benefit our Haitian brothers and sisters. It was super last minute. Like everything had to come together within a couple of days to be ready by yesterday. It was at a bar with silent auction for donated art pieces.

I'm pleased to say that with the given situation, we were able to raise about $5000! Ten of my photos got purchased! One of them even sold for 5x more than the starting bid! This is monumental b/c my art was part of the monetary contribution, but also b/c this was the first time I had shown my artwork publicly in New York.

Thank you to everyone who came out to support us, and more importantly support Haiti by bidding and making donations. There will be an ongoing art auction on facebook as Haiti's need for aid will be ongoing.

Happy MLK day!

The Best Lil Black Dress

2010-01-13T09:35:00.000-08:00

The dress of my dreams has been designed!! I'm only a little bitter for not having designed it myself. No more corsets or girdles or other unattractive/uncomfortable contraptions that suck in the gut. This dress takes an inch and a half off the waist! No lumps or bumps...a smooth finish to a beautifully disguised silhouette. More here: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1242488/Little-black-dress-pinches-inches.html

In the immortal words of Lance's wife, "Ah won't thayat!"

Delayed Post

2010-01-13T09:05:00.000-08:00

Like the title says, this post is indeed delayed. Imagine sitting in the subway and noticing someone at the stop standing with no pants on. One would think this was just another typical day in the NYC but it was like 20 degrees. Now imagine shrugging that off and then noticing a few people in the actual subway car removing their pants as well. Color me confused. There were thin people, fat people, old people, young people, all kinds of people just droppin' trou like it was nothing. No one knew each other. Those few people turned into a lot more people...to the point where those who were clothed were getting outnumbered. There was this middle aged asian lady next to me listening to her ipod and I made the "Are you seeing what's happening right now?" face with my eyes. She just rolled hers right back. Five minutes later she took off her pants too!

Come to find out, it was all a part of some wacky annual improv event. No true purpose. Just riding the train w/o your pants. If you're asked why, you're only supposed to reply "Oh I just forgot my pants" or "I lost my pants". Priiiiight...

More info on that here: http://improveverywhere.com/2010/01/10/no-pants-2010-nyc-reports/

Honestly, I'm just posting this now, so that when it happens again next year, I'll remember its an annual thing and not some weird hostile take over. PS-there were hundreds of folks with no pants on and not a single person had on cute underwear. C'mon if you're gonna participate in an event where everyone's gonna see yo draws, you should be sportin' some beautiful and luxurious silks!

This image was borrowed from flickr...I'm pervy but I'm not THAT pervy!

Harem, Scare 'Em

2010-01-11T15:01:00.000-08:00

OMG I can only pray and hope that the fashion gods do not smite me for saying this. Why hast Thou forsaketh mine eyes with these atrocious garments known as The Harem Pants?

My first altercation with these so-called pants was in 2008. I was dressing a competitive dance show for the UK and the “dance-off” genre was Hip Hop. A couple of the girls demanded that they be allowed to wear these things because “they felt invincible in these pants”…hmm if by invincible they meant just like MC Hammer, they should reconsider because we all know that his career as a performer was not so invincible. Needless to say, the girls got their way and a year later, the trend made itself known in the states.

Let me just say this: I think these pants look better on men. Its more flattering. The saggy crotch can create the illusion of a bigger package, AND create the illusion of wearing a skirt (ala Marc Jacobs yum!) without actually wearing one. Gentlemen, I advise you to go all out if you want to wear these pants. Don’t limit yourself to black or charcoal. Get those bright metallic colors and bring the whole era back!

On the female body however, the harem pants accentuate the wrong parts of the body. We’re given “mom butt”, a shapeless, flat, square rear end and our thighs look as if they belong to the body of a Biggest Loser contestant. Don’t even get me started on the crotch. Three words: saggy & stretched out. ‘Nuff said.

I do own a pair. I won’t lie. They feel great against my skin. Don’t skimp on quality. Anything below $60 will pill and cling and all the other horrible things cheap jersey cotton will do. I will never wear these in public or wear them to get a date, not even to fulfill some sexy harem fantasy. Private pants for private occasions when I feel like rocking out to old hits from MC Hammer.

Stylin' & Profilin'...

We Need To Talk About Kevin; Based on the novel: We Need To Talk About Kevin

2 Great NY Films

The Artist

Pardon Me, Do You Have Any Grey Poupon?

30 Things to Stop Doing to Yourself

Well I Just Met Someone Awsome

Yes, Yes, and Yes!

Cufflinks

Blue Clues

I Will Always Love...The Bodyguard

Crazy Stupid Love

Unexpected Shoegasm!

Savage Beauty

The Other MTV

The Afterthought

Top 5 Questions You Shouldn't Ask a Wardrobe Stylist or Costume Designer

They're Really Not "All Saints"

Uh-Huh...Yeah

Shorts

Wowie Zowie

Just Can't Let You Go

Made Over/Shameless Self Promotion

The Shaft

Heads on Heads

January's Globes

Stay Cool. Be Warm.

Smells

Love Letter

Sock it to Me!

Got Shingles?

80's Peace

Mas Agua

The Better Week

The Bitter Old Queen

Well Hello, Karma

Highlights from The Brooks Brothers Shoot

Ahhh Christmas Sweaters Won't Leave Me Alone!

"That's so c*nt!"

Da Muthaload

Breathless

Workin' On the Railroad...

Pity Me, 'Cuz I'm a Fool!

Wow, W.O.W!

For the Actor/Actress in Your Life

Side Hustle

Canon Photoshoot

That Other Christina...

Wonder of the World

Shoes...

Stirring Crazy

Time Traveler Captured in Museum Photograph

Its Almost May Already?!

The Apprentice

The Thrill of Twill

Seinfeld Quote

The World Has Lost a Genius

GTL

quick Grammy thoughts

01272010

The Big Bang Theory

Helping Haiti

The Best Lil Black Dress

Delayed Post

Harem, Scare 'Em