Get Familiar: S-Cubed (Saks Spring Shoes)

Ladies, Saks Fifth Avenue is releasing a timely delivery of capsule collections for you to enjoy! The collections will feature footwear from 6 of the hottest designers: Heather Williams (exclusive to Saks), Daniele Michetti (exclusive to Saks), Diego Dolcini, Gianvito Rossi, Jonathan Kelsey, and Rupert Sanderson. Here’s the statement Saks released:

“’Special Delivery to 10022-SHOE’ is about showcasing rising designers, which Saks has always believed strongly in, and layering high fashion into our core assortment,” said Ron Frasch, President and Chief Merchandising Officer, Saks Fifth Avenue. “Our shoe trend for the season is the sandal bootie and the designers of these collections offer a variety of interpretations of this must-have item.”

So, go ahead and get your sheckles together…or your sponsors (if you have one/two/more of those) and make the necessary moves to cop these!

Review Session| Dopest Kicks 2009

Let’s get it going! Our year-end review of the 5 Dopest Sneakers of 2009. Now, just to add some qualifiers — we’re talking about SNEAKERS, not designer shoes, not footwear in general — straight up Kicks. Sneakerheads…if you have any sneakers you think we missed, drop us a comment!

1. Space Jams

Grade: A

“Arguably the most classic, yet innovative sneaker to date. They bridged the gap and provided the new generation with an even greater appreciation for the Jordan brand.” – The Couthless Suit

2. Air Yeezy

Grade: A-

“The Yeezys created a strong following…that’s probably only rivaled by the Jordan Brand — difference is…he did it with ONE shoe. Amazing.” -  the FlyyNerd aka Will Walker, Sneakerhead

3. Supra TK Society

Grade: B+

“If the Skytops were the dopest shoe in 2008, these would have to be their cool, tall 1st cousin. TK’s crushed the game with that extended hi-top — had kat’s looking like fly astronauts.” – Italo Brown, Editor

4. Nike SB Blue Lobster

Grade: B+

“They were the BEST PACKAGED sneakers I’ve seen in a while. They went all out with the marketing, and followed all the way through to the ice-chest box they came in. It’s rare to see that much attention to detail — plus, the sneaker is bonkers.” – Big Vic, Sneakerhead

5. Adidas x Jeremy Scott Wings

Grade: B

“Innovative. Artistic. And definitely veered away from the ‘strap’ trend, which was very difficult to do this year. Jeremy Scott has a unique eye and he made sneakerheads respect it.” – Italo Brown, Editor

First|Løøk: Omelle

Back in February, we gave you a brief introduction to Omelle, and designers Nicole LaFave  and Cherise Agnelle. Now, here’s a look at what’s to come in their S/S 2010 collection, slated to launch this coming February. Peep how this label continues to challenge contemporary design through their use of vibrant colors, unconventional heel shapes, and construction.

RecessionPrøøf 220: Payless

What if I told you that you could pull off designer footwear….for less than $50?

Payless has paired with designers like Christian Siriano (of Project Runway fame), Alice + Olivia (Russian designers), and STPL (of Staple Design) to produce some recession-friendly footwear options for both women and men. I understand that people have an affinity for overpriced goods….but sometimes it’s about getting more bang for your buck, being sexy while also being smart with your expenses. Don’t let the name fool you! Payless has put a lot of effort into acquiring industry-proven brands and making affordable products that are just as fashionable as “runway footwear”. Check out these examples….none of which exceeds $49.99:

Inc.Me Ladies [Kick.Game.Proper]

We’re at it again — and today, it’s all about heels! Everybody loves a lady with a mean shoe game….even the haters. Tell us how you would rock these shoes below! Be creative, be original, and be YOU! All of your replies will be posted RIGHT HERE for other readers to view. Wanna join in? Send your @reply to @Gr8vision, @Bleyzmanuel, or @GunnerSixx – we’ll post E-Mee-Jit-Lee!

Here are your kicks:

The Marc Suite (only pick ONE)

>> LiaDelFresco says: “the yellow marc jacobs scream “woman with a mission” to me. simple black pencil to compliment the black detail and a nice blouse.”

Bets on Betsey

>>Diva_Esquire says: “OMG The Bets on Betsey…doing it!!! I LOVE these kill ‘em in circa ’50s style dress yes!”

The Givenchy Effect

>> NadirahAli says: “the Givenchy Effect… they give orgasmic dreams. im not a fan of black shoes. Zippers are sleek & sexy”

>>fashioninmotion says: “Shoes that palpitate the heart; thank you @bleyzmanuel for the eye candy and daydreams”

Texas Iconic Boot Returns

Every region across the nation has their ICONIC shoe. Northeast — yall own Timbs (Wheat seems to be the standard). West — Vans & Chucks, (depending on if you Go Dumb or Jerk). And then there’s….the 3rd Coast — specifically TEXAS. They are responsible for the POLO BOOT, period. For those who are 3rd ward born and raised, but not in Texas anymore (i.e. The Urbane Epicurean), the re-release is scheduled for today, 7/16 [at David Z. - 556 Broadway (between Prince and Spring st.) New York, NY 10012] and tomorrow, 7/17, online. Grab a pair,  throw on some screw, and commence leeeeeanin’!

via highsnobiety.com

Get Familiar: Little Bow Peep

Graduettes, GET FAMILIAR!! This spring, as your style blossoms, grab it by the ends and tie into a nice little bow – then repeat that procedure A THOUSAND times. Several of the latest looks by designers have featured what we like to call, “Bow Collages” or “Bow Gardens”, a myriad of bow-like elements and ruffles that creates a flowing visual masterpiece.

The key is to look for clever embellishment. Keep your eyes open for unorthodox uses of bows, placement, and varying sizes all within the same item.

Don’t Act Like I Never Told Ya

The Year of the Ox is no more…it’s the officially the Year of the Strap (hi top that is)! Kanye West – more sartorially known as Martin Louie The King, Jr. — has leaked yet another picture of his collaboration sneakers. This one is…..you guessed it, A HI-TOP with STRAPS (proceed to gawk and gander)! Only thing left for us to say is….Don’t act like we never told ya.

Greek 2 Chic: Picks of the Week

Okay, I’mma do the picks of the week a tad differently today — I’m posting only ONE of each type of item. I know, I know, this is truly a challenge, especially since we locate some of the dopest pieces out there. But hey, as Unique Trend Øriginators…we need to operate outside the box, feel me. Follow along:

The Sneaker

The Coraline Dunk by NIKE. Apparently, Coraline is an animated horror film that will be released in early Feb. To commemorate the film, their making these limited edition (1000 pairs) sneakers winnable. I’m lowkey mad at this marketing ploy, but hey, get it how ya live. The colorway is ridiculoso, the materials…sick (it’s got a damn button on it!) – all around, a work of art.

The Jacket

Stadium Jacket by Swagger x Trilly & Truly (Lupe Fiasco). Whenever I see a letterman-style jacket, I get reminded of classic swag. This piece is no different. The Camou Pattern fully contrasts the white leather used on the arms. But most importantly, the designers speak for themselves! CLEARLY, with this on, you will be a Varsity member among JV players.

The T-Shirt

Fingerprint T-shirt by Maison Martin Margiela. I don’t know what it is about this shirt, it’s just so striking. The concept of wearing something as unique as a fingerprint is dope to me. Now, aside from the subtle meaning, the shirt’s materials are among the highest quality ever (highest being japanese handmade). Kinda pricey, but a t-shirt that will last for a while.

The Gear

Les Ateliers Ruby Helmet by Jerome Coste. Okay, I’m pretty sure this won’t apply to everyone’s tastes and pocket space. But honestly, this might be the flyest motorcycle helmet on the market. If you’re not feelin the chrome wit crimson and ruby accents…check ur swagometer — you might be below standard.

The Device

Vintage Mulberry Wool iPhone Sleeve by Wrappers UK. Ladies…..this is incredibly chic. Most people are tacky with their device game — no protective gear at all. Some people are adequate — hard plastic cases, holsters, the works. Very few people are savvy — insert the joint you see above. Which one are you?

The Lady Kicks

Satin Shoes by Lanvin. Okay, I hope I’m not violating the challenge by posting two shoes — but really, these are not “sneakers”. THEY are waaaay more official, and they are constructed of SATIN uppers. How serious of a matter is that!?

The Belt

Leather Bape Belt by A Bathing Ape. Every now and then, you have to let the ostentatious rebel out of the conservative fly box. This belt is the avenue to accomplish that. Quality leather, metal buckle with BAPE imprint, courtesy of Nigo. Apes….you already know this goes hard.

The Bag

Leather Tote Bag by Cole Haan for Assouline Boutique (New York). So, you know the phrase, “Strong enough for a man, but built for a woman”? I think it applies right here. This is a “unisex” bag, but honestly, I think it would be a dope addition to a female’s arsenal. It’s durable as hell, a nice size, really stylish, and versatile. What more could you want? It’s like having a Goyard bag for the price of a Cole Haan Shoe. Nirvana.

Don’t Act Like I Never Told Ya [II]

You heard it hear FIRST, a month ago in our GET FAMILIAR posts– “Look for absurd colorways, random straps and buckles, and blending of materials and textures”. Now, even Kanye West’s blog confirms, “2009 is all about the straps! I know we’ve seen straps but this year it’s gonna be crazy”. Will someone please deliver a “Certificate of Trendsettership” to the Urban Graduate Community?!? (Notarized, thank you).

Kris Van Assche Hi-Tops

Raf Simons Spring/Summer '09 Hi-Top

Maison Martin Margiela Hi-Tops

Reebok Exofit Hi Strap --- BONKERS!!!Raf Simons Spring 09 Astronaut Mix Boot

Raf Simons Spring '09 Half Blocked Military Trainer

Raf Simons Spring '09 Astronaut Mix Boot

Raf Simons Spring '09 Astronaut Boot

I wonder how a marled sweater would look with a pair of these kicks?? Food-for-closet…

Greek 2 Chic: Elephants | The Re-up

Let’s kick 2009 off properly with an [Urban+Take(øut)] post for the DevaSTating Divas. Ladies, we know that Crimson is the preferred color to wrap yourselves in — but don’t be afraid to change the game (as if you didn’t see that coming) by playing with neutrals and monochromatic grays. Check out some of the looks we’ve hunted down:

DeSTined for Leisure (Lacoste + BDG)

* The stressed crewneck sweater…yea, that’s “Blockbuster Movie night” sexy.

Dangerously STunning (ASOS)

* These numbers are TOUGH!! Bow at the small of the back?? That’s just “add-water-and stir-BADness”. And, you can play with the leggings/tights to change the dynamic of the dresses.

Dope-girl STatus (NYC Boutique + Nooka + BDG + Rubber Duck)

*Plaid is apparently the new black. The watch is a low-key shout out to the Ques. And, look at the DUCK on the patent leather oxfords!! That’s just ill.

Detailed STylishly (Lowie + ASOS + Puma)

* Those mittens, absolutely unique. In fact, I’m 100% sure that no one has them, and once you cop them…folks will be jockin hard.

Divine STems (Louboutin + DSquared2)

*Umm….recession…hell, these just might be worth the debt. Beyonce….yea, she rocked the lightning bolt heels about a few weeks back — time for you to be SashaFierce (or whomever your alter ego is).

Get Familiar: High, My name is…

Jeremy Scott x Adidas

If you haven’t realized yet, high top sneakers are the new standard. But, we’re not talking just your run-of-the-mill NIKE AF1 or Retro Jordan. No no, leading designers from across the globe have met in a secret huddle and decided that Hi Tops are the fashion industry’s quarterback sneak (pun intended).

Ato Matsumoto Cow Hide Boot

They’ve been on the runways, they’ve been in boutiques, they’ve been in all the fashion capitals of the world. The thing to remember is that the Designer Hi Top is always embellished. Look for absurd colorways, random straps and buckles, and blending of materials and textures. These details set the new high top away from the average high top. Get Familiar!!

Jil Sander x Aloha Rag High Top

Nil Admirari High Tops

Supra Chad Muska Skytop (Gold Limited Ed. Colorway)

K-Swiss High Top

Juun J. x Reebok Hi-Top

Mihara Yasuhiro x Puma Hi Top