London
Irregular Choice: The Viagra of the Shoe Industry
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Irregular Choice is known for "maintaining creativity and individuality in a world of conformity. It is more than just the name of a brand. It's a state of mind, a way of being." With a flagship store in New York’s Nolita neighborhood and a residence on London’s Carnaby Street, Irregular Choice is everything you ever imagined as a child put together into fabulous clothing, shoes and accessories.
Launched by Danny Sullivan in 2004, Irregular Choice, inspired by "Alice in Wonderland, fluffy furs and wooden architectural heels with a sheriffs stomp”, has since exploded in the scene having carved itself a niche and inadvertently founded itself a fan club.
With over 500 pieces designed by Dan per season, handbag lines, a new girls’ sneaker range titled ICED, clothing releases, having collaborated with some of the worlds most sought after brands and designers- Irregular Choice has been worn by celebrities such as Katy Perry, Zooey Deschanel, and Agyness Deyn; proving that Irregular Choice is more than a brand name, but that it is a way of life.
Hotter than hot collabs with Hollywood design duo Heatherette, Fashion Innovator Emma Bell, and cult 60s doll Blythe, Irregular Choice continues to relentlessly portray the "Irregular ethos" and constantly pushes the boundaries with each collection. Irregular Choice has even been named "The Viagra of the shoe industry".
The accessories are fun and upbeat, and the shoes are absolutely to die for. I have truly fallen in love with their Rosepea shoe collection. Each style is so unique, that there is definitely no other shoe like it on the market... guaranteed. The shoes come in multiple styles; heels, wedges, flats, boots, and recently Irregular Choice has launched their own line of sneakers paired with a lightning bolt across the side and an intergalactic style. The bright 70's vintage feel cute clutch with a large dotted bow, is the perfect girly accessory for any occasions.
You can visit their website at www.irregularchoice.com, which is equivalent to Care Bears on acid, yet is surprisingly enticing. On the site you can peruse and purchase all of the Irregular Choice products from the handbag, shoe, Women's and Men's lines. Join the Club (aka- become a member) and you will be rewarded with free downloads, videos, VIP exclusives, and you can even give your input by submitting your own product review.
Irregular Choice is like a trip back to your childhood, and returning to incorporate your dreams into your chic, cute, and adult wardrobe. However- be cautious, you will become magnetic while wearing any product from Irregular Choice. Every passerby will be drawn to you... and a few may just fall in love with you and your new found whimsy!
Visit the Nolita store at 276 Lafayette St. NY, NY 10012 or online at Irregular Choice
Social Diva: CEO Peg Samuel- The Divalicious Scoop
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One night during Miami Art Basel, I ended up at a Duncan Quinn pop-up shop uber-hot Cocktails and Croquet party hosted by Social Diva. I was promptly introduced to the fantavulous Peg Samuel, CEO of Social Diva Media. Obvi, we clicked right away and made plans to meet up at Soho House. I knew that Scene B Seen readers would love to know all the deets about Social Diva.
Scene B Seen: What is Social Diva?
Peg Samuel: Social Diva™ is a go-to resource for all of your social needs. We keep you in the know and enhance your social life by providing info on fun events, handy time savers, invitation-only sales, and the best places to go. On top of all that, we host our own fabulous events in select cities.
SBS: When and how did the idea for your website, Social Diva, begin?
PS: I started Social Diva in an attempt to answer to the infamous, age-old question, “Where can a girl go to have some fun?” Voila! Social Diva was born to solve weekday and weekend doldrums. We produced unique, hip, exciting events with creative, carefully selected themes in the hopes of making going out more fun.
SBS: How has SD developed and/or changed since inception?
PS: We add on more cities every year and also host destination events, like our prior events at Turks and Caicos Film Festival, and our UK book launch in London at the Shoreditch House.
SBS: How do Social Divas vary from city to city?
PS: Social Diva’ism is a mindset; it really is about knowing yourself. You know what you like, love, want and how you want to be. And then you go after it. Being a Social Diva is all about the person and what’s on the inside not where they live.
SBS: You’re based out of New York City, is NYC Diva central?
PS: Yes, we love love NYC. And it loves us right back!
SBS: SD is heavily subscriber based, how does this work and what sort of insider info will a member receive by being on the list?
PS: We have events, insider scoop and divas deals. But most importantly we personally check out everything we report on to make sure it is diva-worthy before reporting on it. We also will never tell you what you’ve missed, we are always inviting.
SBS: I love that! There is nothing worse than receiving a newsletter with "What You Missed..." in the subject line.
PS: Exactly! That makes you feel like an outsider, SD wants you to be an insider.
SBS: SD is like the link for SBS readers. Speaking of, you recently published a book, How to Be a Social Diva. What’s the scoop?
PS: How to be a Social Diva has all the tips of the Social Diva trade: wardrobe guidelines for every event, how to fit your life into a clutch bag, plus essential instructions on how to entertain, travel, shop, eat, look, party and relax like a Diva.
SBS: My fave tip is the Blister Buster.
PS: We Divas love our stilettos, who knew it was so simple to make them comfy?!
SBS: Right? Obviously, parties are essential to social divaness, when did you start hosting parties?
PS: We’ve always been hosting parties! That is what makes us unique, we not only report on where to go, we provide it too!
SBS: What can one expect to find at an SD fete?
PS: Fabulous, like-minded, approachable, fun, interesting people… and YES guys too!
SBS: And what is a party without great tunes? You recently dove into the music business, do tell...
PS: After success in publishing, Social Diva wondered, “Where-to next?” The answer? Well, the recording industry of course. After all, who knows better about music that utterly rocks than a Diva? The Strictly Social Diva™ compilation gives Divas a fabulous mix of heart thumping House music to groove to- whether you’re primping for a party, mingling with the fashionistas, prepping a Divalicious dinner for friends, or just cruising around in your convertible Smart Car.
SBS: Nice! So, I have to ask, what is your fave part about being a Social Diva?
PS: Meeting people, having fun and having others enjoy what we are providing.
SBS: How do people find out about SD parties and other hot parties around town?
PS: Well that's easy! Sign up and we’ll put you on the list! http://socialdiva.com/sign-up/
'Tis the Reason for This Season Part Deux: Moda Operandi
+These are a few of my favorite things...
Coat Couture
Lust:
Rick Owens: This designer needs no introduction... Rick's prices range from $1800-$3800 and can be found on ssense.com, farfetch.com, luisaviaroma.com and net-a-porter.com.




Preen: Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi launched Preen in 1996, selling clothes inspired by iconic Britishisms like Victoriana and Punk Rock. One year later, they had a shop on Portobello Road, and in the years since, the London-based label has earned strong editorial coverage for its clean, fluid lines and slouchy-futuristic elegance. Prices range from $1400-$2500 and can be found on lagarconne.com and net-a-porter.com. LOVE!



Must:
Mackage: Montreal based designers, Elisa Dahan and Eran Elfassy are the creative duo behind this label. Having debuted their fashion careers at the ripe age of 20, their talent and eye for trend setting looks amazes all. The line is well-known to fashionistas in Canada and US for its strength in outerwear and its wonderfully cut leathers. Mackage has no age. It is made for the fashion-forward woman. Prices range from $350-$750 and can be found on bloomingdales.com, ssense.com, revolveclothing.com and luxlabel.com



Isabella Oliver: This UK based label sells their flattering designs directly on their website; isabellaoliver.com. I accidentally found them while I was searching for a black coat on Shopsyle.com & fell in love with some of their affordable chic pieces. They also have an amazing Maternity clothing selection! Coat prices range from $280-$500.



Glove Love
Lust:
American Retro: Don't let the name fool you, American Retro is a fully French, fashion-forward label that delivers serious style. Their pieces have the perfect combination of old-school details & innovative design. American Retro gloves can be found on shopbop.com and prontostyle.com and run from $185-$320.

SMART’s "Love in a Time of HIV: Ep. 2 I Love New York”
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Rockhopper TV - BBC World News Series "Love in a Time of HIV: Ep. 2 I Love New York" has been nominated for the prestigious Association for International Broadcasting (AIB) award. The nominees will be honored at a gala event in London on November 4.
This New York-based film features Christina Rodriguez, a founding member of the SMART Youth program and her mother, Susan Rodriguez, Founding Director of SMART. Christina talks openly about living in New York City with HIV in this moving, sensitive and personal account of the bond between a mother and daughter and how both are dealing with being HIV positive.
Upon learning of the nomination Susan Rodriguez responded, “With over 200 documentary submissions for this year’s award, receiving an AIB nomination with other amazing international documentaries is an enormous honor.”
Sisterhood Mobilized for AIDS Research and Treatment’s (SMART)
Founded in 1998 to provide treatment and prevention education and support for all women living with HIV/AIDS in order to increase their self-confidence and self-esteem, SMART expanded its mission in 2005 to include serving youth living with or affected by HIV/AIDS.
SMART serves high-risk heterosexual women and youth of color from New York City’s highest incidence areas. Over the last 11 years, SMART’s priority is to serve all women and youth of color who are infected or affected by HIV/AIDS and seeks to: 1) create successful linkages to medical care or re-engage the out-of-care, 2) deliver culturally competent, evidence-based treatment education and prevention services, and 3) reduce the disparities, stigma and discrimination in access to prevention and care services that are experienced by women of color.
Sisterhood Mobilized for AIDS Research and Treatment (SMART) is a not-for-profit, volunteer-supported and community-based organization committed to empowering women and youth. Our mission is: (1) support and expand our synergistic programs for women and youth living with/affected by HIV/AIDS; (2) provide the necessary space for women and youth living with/affected by HIV/AIDS in New York City; and (3) create positive change in each of our participant’s lives so they may receive optimal treatment access and care. For more information, please visit www.smartuniversity.org and www.smartyouthnyc.org
To purchase SMART shirt: click HERE
To make a donation, please visit: SMART
10/10 with JP Whitney: Peter Davis
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I recently had the great privilege to sit down with my friend, Peter Davis, Editor of Paper Magazine and one of New York City's most stylish men, to ask him 10 questions about all things style. Here is what he had to say:
JP Whitney: What things influence your style?
Peter Davis: People and places: Fred Hughes, Mark Ronson, Tokyo, London, Big Sur, Bob Marley, Amy Winehouse, and of course- New York. The Mods are a huge influence.
JPW: What do you prefer: everyday street style or party primped?
PD: Street Style. NYC's best looks start and shine on the street and not in the front row of a fashion show or on a red carpet.
JPW: How does your City Style differ from your Hamptons Style?
PD: I only wear board shorts in the country. Whereas in NYC, I never wear board shorts.
JPW: What is your prized possession in your closet and what is your must have du jour?
PD: My tux that my tailor in London, Timothy Everest, made. Always looks good. A pair of black Loakes shoes which were a huge pain to order from London, but my favorite shoe.
JPW: Who are some of your favorite designers or labels?
PD: Martin Margiela, Rolex, Fred Perry, John Lobb, Thom Browne shirts, Vans slip-ons (have owned over 400 pairs), Michael Bastian blazers and tux jackets, vintage Helmut Lang, Bess NYC, and my tailor Timothy Everest is my style guru.
JPW: How did you get started in the magazine business?
PD: I was an intern at Paper in High school. I had blue hair.
I never wanted to be a writer or an editor. I studied painting in
college. I just loved Paper's whole vibe.
JPW: How do you take/react to negative press?
PD: Not well. I'm not a celebrity, so I'm always surprised that Page Six or Gawker makes up silly stories about me or slams me.
JPW: Is the Peter Davis we see on red carpets and at parties the
same Peter Davis that hangs out with family and friends?
PD: Red carpets scare me!! I don't have a good photo face down,
so I'm never red carpet ready. I need to have Mark Ronson give me some
lessons in looking cool!
JPW: What is on your wish list for the coming fashion season?
PD: Getting an editorial discount at Gucci, so I can load up on
mod style clothing.
JPW: Peter, it's been a pleasure chatting with you.
Before we wrap it up, tell me something most people don't
know about Peter Davis.
PD: I'm scared of sharks. I went scuba diving with Jaws-like sharks in Fiji, and it still haunts me.
*Photo 1 by Thomas Whiteside: Peter Davis at Chateau Marmont
*Photo 2 by PMc: Peter Davis and Amanda Hearst at Surf Lodge
*Photo 3 by PMc: Peter Davis at LEVIEV Party for "GLAMOUR GIRLS" in LA
The Box We All Must Open
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The evening began by meeting my fantavulous and vivacious hostess of the evening, event planner and publicist extraordinaire- Christine Coppinger. Dressed to kill and a megawatt smile that lit up her eyes, Christine chatted me up on our way the ever so exclusive The Box.
Now all I had heard thus far was: a) you could not just show up and expect to get in, you had to have rezzies at a bottle service table or be on the list, b) there is nothing like it in Manhattan, and c) expect the unexpected.
Okay...
Hence, I decided to not try and figure out what this place was. Sure I grew up in the tri-state area and went to the underground galleries and lofts of the East Village and Soho in the 80's (thanks Mom and Dad) and spent many high school evenings partaking in the the "scene" that was NYC back in the day (sorry Mom and Dad). However, it's long since the days of keys, cards or those little tiny ziplocs manufactured for one reason, to grant entry into the latest hot spot.
So, like a transplant from Kansas City, as Christine gave her name to one of three door guys dressed in vests, one with a bowler hat, and general 20's gangster style, I belted,"I feel like we're going into a speakeasy during the prohibition!" Hopefully, they either could have cared less who I was to even care what was coming out of my freshly glossed lips, or ignored me out of courtesy to Christine.
Regardless, the door opened for us and Christine pushed aside the velvet curtain...
Fantastic.
Two gorgeous crystal chandeliers lit the deep oak bar, garnished with two male bartenders in similar garb as the door dudes. Everywhere was an unmistakable decor of another time. I felt like I was in Doris Duke and Mrs. Astor's estate sale, amidst a flea market in an Upstate New York town; minus the must and Guerlain Shalimar perfume scent.
Faded velvet cushions, a mini wooded rocking horse, dodged photographs from the year one, and I swear there were a few lace doilies around. My eyes were in heaven and awe.
Christine led me around, giving me the lay of the land, and informed me there was to be a show. We walked into the main room, adorned with banquettes and and tables- reservations and bottle service only. And at the far end: a closed curtain adorning a stage. I looked up to see sheer curtains hanging above the balcony.
We headed upstairs where I discovered the uber privee booths and immediately envisioned Moulin Rouge-
men in silk top hats and women in lace and gabardine dresses with beaucoup cleavage, leaning over the banisters cheering on -La Revue de la Femme.
I absolutely adored this place and nothing had really happened yet, despite the fact that it was just before 2am.
We headed back downstairs, found a spot at the bar and dutifully sipped our champagne.
To read what happens next, please visit The Luxury Spot
*photos courtesy of Raven-O
** Special thank you to Christine Coppinger, and The Box for being an impressive, unique, and stellar venue.
Renzo Martens in discussion with J.J. Charlesworth, Part I
+Find more videos like this on artreview.com
Episode III – Enjoy Poverty is the second in a series of three films by Martens that raise issues regarding contemporary image production. For Episode III
Episode III was screened at London’s Wilkinson Gallery for several weeks this winter, and during that time Martens spent an evening discussing his work with ArtReview’s J.J. Charlesworth. This is Part I of that discussion. Martens travelled for two years with his video camera in the Democratic Republic of Congo, an area marked by humanitarian disaster, questioning why the Western ‘poverty’ industry are benefactors rather than the people in the images. Working with Congolese photographers, he attempts to guide them in earning a living from poverty photography – a project doomed to failure.
* Article and video courtesy of Art Review
Sacco Finally Sacked?: The Disco Ball Has Left the Building... So Has Malik So Chic
+About five-six years ago, it was virtually impossible to gain access to Bungalow 8 unless you possessed a sacred key, or you were someone enough to make it on the guest list. However, like so many things, those days swiftly came and went, yet Amy Sacco let the doors linger open.
In the winter of 2008, Guestofaguest.com threw an immensely successful holiday bash at B8, and someone saw opportunity. Malik So Chic, the ever so gracious self-promoter, began hosting Disco 10021 every Wednesday night. Although it is a bit more a throw back to the early days of Limelight, complete with kool-aid colored wigs, B8 is more avant-garde than club kid and still a lovely space. Ms. Sacco, the once “it” girl of NYC’s club scene, desperate to save her mainstay, welcomed Malik So Chic with open arms. She had previously (and I will now use this term lightly) employed hosts in the past, such as the Six Six Sick Girls. At the time no one knew why that relationship did not pan out, but we will get to that later as I was soon to unravel the register tape.









