Planet of the Sanquon

Public School are certainly living up to their name with their newest Spring collection. Like Wood Wood, their collection is subdued – with mostly black, greys, and whites. That said, the pieces almost look like the best school uniforms ever, and the real strength of this collection is in the design details – they’ve added distinctive (yet subtle) personalized accents to institutions like the pea coats, vests, and cardigans. Check out the collection at Ssense.

Upper Playground x Munk One Scandal T-shirts

Amid the media chatter surrounding the recent controversy of Rhianna’s assault at the hands of Chris Brown and Michael Phelps’ bong smoking misbehaviour, Upper Playground and Munk One have collaborated to create two rather apt graphic T-shirts. Both are available on pre-order exclusively via UP’s online store.

The Hundreds T-shirts Keep Comin’

The Hundreds keep their print graphic T-shirts flowing with a new series currently available via Digital Gravel. The latest collection features a couple of dope new prints including ‘Robinson’ and ‘Loca’ as pictured above…

Hellz Bells Spring ‘09 ‘Culture Clash’ Collection

Hellz Bellz proudly presents it’s first drop of the Spring 2009 season — Culture Clash — is strongly inspired by the city of New York. Featuring vibrant colors and patterns the collection comprises a pullover hoodie, denim jacket fashion tops, tanks, graphic tees and multi-colored leggings. For all the Hellz Bells fans out there, hit them online now for the full collection.

Adidas Consortium Continues To Impress

As if their previous Consortium releases weren’t enough to blow minds, adidas Originals drop the Superskate (pictured), Decade Hi and Campus Vintage. The trio of sneakers features some fresh takes on classic adidas themes and subtle styling. The line is currently available through limited adidas Consortium retailers… ready, set, go!!

Monday, February 23, 2009

Roen Spring/Summer 2009 Lookbook

Looks like the Japanese are really coming with it this season, as all brands are showing off incredible lines in their respective lookbooks. Roen, not to be outdone, has released their own sneak peek into s/s 2009 with their latest book. The collection centers around the wild times of the 70’s, set in sunny Miami. The collection reflects that with the grungy, yet “flowy” feel, only be experienced in the Sunshine State. Look for s/s Roen 09 to drop very soon.

Undercover Spring/Summer 2009 - Poetic Anarchy

Jun Takahashi has really set the bar high for forward, upscale mens and women’s wear. For spring/summer 2009, Undercover takes 3 different paths for inspiration and has titled the collection “Grace”, “Neoboy” and “Poptonez”. Poptonez, for instance, pays tribute to frontman Johnny Rotten of the Sex Pistols. The 3 collections are a nice balance of fine cut & sew and punk. Very clean lines and slim fits are abundant and should be a big hit amongst the masses.

Original Fake x Levi’s Denim Jeans & Jacket

KAWS keeps riding that huge wave of success and now denim giant, Levis is along for the ride. The two have worked together before and are at it again with a couple of raw denim offerings. The pant and jacket combo are both a sturdy, raw type and feature the “chompers” graphic seen on many other apparel collaborations. Good luck getting your paws on this limited drop. Available ???.

Yes No Maybe New Era Caps - “The Fez” & “Velcro Patch”

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Getting creative with their New Era account, UK brand Yes No Maybe has 2 new fitteds for the springtime. The first get its inspiration from the traditional Fez, native to North Africa. It features a red velour shell, with gold lining and of course, a black tassel. The second fitted is a blank velcro “canvas” and comes complete with full set of patches to reflect your own personal style. Both The Fez & Velcro Patch are available now.

Hello Brute ‘Kristopher’ Figure

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Designer Jon Knox, and the good people Hello Brute have dropped some big news – they’ve released two different hand-painted iterations of their Kristopher figure. A saddened, quasi-tragic figure, Kristopher comes wearing ratty jeans, and a hoodie – and, depending on your choice of figure, different facial expressions. Unlike many other figures, the appeal of Kristopher is in his flaws – as each is hand painted, each figurine is uniquely imperfect. The first edition (in blue) is limited to 10 pieces, and the second limited to 5, so if you want one, make sure to order one right quick!

Thursday, February 19, 2009

The Hundreds Spring 2009 Tees

This Thursday, 2/19/09, The Hundreds will be dropping mad products at both the SF and LA store locations. A new mouse pad, some coasters, and stickers will all be available. But its the 11 new tees that will make the followers line up. The Spring 2009 line sees many inspirations ranging from Sharpies to colorblindness. And of course, a fresh installment of TH logo tees are in the new batch. Available 2/19/09 at both retail spots and online.

Lazything “Bloody Lazy” Custom Dunks

Sneaker customizer Lazything is back at it again with pure fire. This time, he brings us the “Bloody Lazy” customized Dunk SB’s. The Dunk gets a real nice tonal treatment of red canvas with a red reptile swoosh and red laces, set against a white midsole. The Lazy signature graces the heel tab in a darker red tone and really completes the custom build. Only 6 pairs will be available on 2/2/09. Good luck eBayers!

Mishka Spring 2009 Lookbook

The bad boys and girls of Mishka have opened the door on their 2009 lookbook and it appears that the ladies have taken center stage. The lineup focuses heavy on the the women’s apparel side while the guys get a nice update of cut & sew and classics in new colorways. Maybe the decision to concentrate on the ladies was a strategic, economical move, or maybe not. Either way the Spring 2009 line looks great and should sell well in all markets.

Saber Limited Edition Print

LA graffiti legend Saber has just released a much-anticipated print, displaying that his oft-imitated / never duplicated style transfers well to other mediums (not to mentioning his wood and metal works). Using common motifs in his graffiti – surrealist landscapes and angular patterns among them – this print is fabricated on non-coated stock, signed and numbered, sealed in with varnish, and topped off with a silver screen print of his familiar tag. With 100 of these available, act quick!

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Kanye West feat. Kid Cudi - “Welcome to Heartbreak”

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Love him or hate him, Kanye West is the most eccentric, ingenious, and ambitious artist of our time. Yesterday, Mr. West premiered his new video for “Welcome to Heartbreak” via his blog — and it doesn’t disappoint. Using an innovative pixelated style (no, that isn’t your internet acting up), the video practically overwhelms the viewer with an explosion of intense color and pop art-inspired visual effects. Only ‘Ye knows where his creativity will take him next, but it’s certainly fun for the rest of us to sit back and watch. Bow in the presence of greatness.

Spurr SS09 Preview

Spurr, a clothing label spearheaded by former Polo designer Simon Spurr, has released their newest spring collection. Like Polo, the collection is simple, clean, and classy and features spring jackets, scarves, and leather outerwear; however, unlike Polo, Spurr’s real strength seems to be in their sharp fitted suits. A rising label, Spurr’s definitely worth keeping an eye on in the future!

Freshjive Spring 2009 Lookbook

Freshjive has just dropped the curtains on their Spring 2009 collection with their latest lookbook. The collection features some faves from seasons past, but is updated with new cuts in button ups hoodies and a couple of New Eras. A nice lineup indeed and a good look in today”s economic crisis. Available soon.

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Nonnative SS09 Lookbook

Along with several of the other spring collections we’ve covered in recent weeks, we’ve recently gotten a look at Nonnative’s latest line. Their collection is focused on the rugged and the outdoorsy, featuring plenty of functional windbreakers, vests, and plaid offerings. As a bonus, the photographs that have been released with the collection look amazing – they resemble bleached-out Polaroids, fully complementing their classic-yet-functional aesthetic. Check out the rest of the lookbook here.

Nylon x Nike Women’s Dunk High

Nike Sportswear has gone high-fashion in pairing with women’s fashion magazine Nylon to release a collection of dope-looking Dunk Highs. Thus far, we’ve seen two decidedly popsicle-inflected colour ways, with magenta and green Dunks (pictured above) being showcased. These shoes are singularly coloured, and surprisingly look both flashy and classy – make sure to keep your eyes on the April edition of Nylon for more details.

Krink x ALife Gold T-Shirt and Ink

To accompany their ever-popular silver inks, Krink has finally followed through more metallic varieties consistent with the quality levels we’ve come to expect – they’ve now developed a gold colour. And, in order to celebrate, they’ve teamed up with NYC mainstays ALife to release a gold themed tee. These shirts are available at all of ALife’s flagship locations – NYC, Hollywood, and San Francisco. Don’t miss out!

Obey Spring 2009 Collection

It looks like the Presidential race made Mr. Fairey a little more sophisticated. His Obey clothing line for Spring 2009 is just that, mature cuts and more subtle imagery make this line something for the people. The inclusion of a diverse women’s segment really helps out too. All in all, a clean lineup that should get major play by all walks of life, no matter political affiliation. Available soon.

Monday, February 16, 2009

Benny Gold x New Era Fitted Caps

Benny Gold, a San-Francisco-based graphic designer, has teamed up with New Era to unveil three custom designed fitted caps in different colours. All three bear Gold’s BG logo and arrive just in time to keep your head dry from Spring’s showers.

Adidas Torsion ZX 7020 Runner

The new adidas Torsion ZX 7020 kicks combine an eye-crossing vertical line design with tried and tested comfort. The shoe has been around since the late 80’s but have been revamped to look more at home in 2009 with its patterned upper. You’d think it was a black and white world if not for the bright blue metal eyelet detail.

Kavi KupKakes Spring/Summer 09

Kavi KupKakes is back for the Spring with more flash then ever.The "Air KupKakes" is back for another season in brand new colorways.Kavi KupKakes have also drop some new desgins IN STORE only so head over to the website to check it out.

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Undefeated’s Spring/Summer ‘09 Collection

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Since simple never goes out of style, Undefeated’s new Spring/Summer ‘09 collection is sure to contain pieces that will become staples in urban wardrobes. The line includes pinstriped hoodies, New Era caps and standard zip-down sweatshirts featuring the trademark 5-strike logo. The collection drops on Valentine’s Day at all Undefeated Japan locations. A wider U.S. release is coming soon.

Limited Edition Carney Vinyl Toys

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The carnies are back in town and they’re freakier than ever. Meet Harriet Carney, an 8-inch tall gender-confused circus performer and Buzz Carney, a 6-inch a tattooed strong man. Buzz is Harriet’s eldest colic child, who would only stop crying when soothed by the gentle hum of a tattoo needle. So don’t let appearances fool you — he’s just a big teddy bear and a mama’s boy. A heart shaped “mommy” tattoo on his left cheek is a testament to this. And because the world can’t handle more than a few carnies, both vinyl figurines are available in limited quantities. The rest of the Carney family resides here.

Friday, February 13, 2009

Tokidoki Store To Open in SoHo

Rome-based Japanese artist tokidoki is coming Stateside to unleash his colorful clothing, bags, Hello Kitty paraphernalia, and toys on the East Coast masses when he opens his first capsule store in the Big Apple. The 176 Spring St. shop will be tokidoki’s second store, after his flagship in Milan.

Thursday, February 12, 2009

New Era x DC Comics - Batman Black/White Collection

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Back in the day, when Adam West donned gray tights to play the superhero, the caped crusader’s punches were innocuous “POW!” and “BAM!” feats of 1960’s computer graphics. New Era and DC Comics have teamed up to bring back the camp by decorating black and white caps with old-school Batman symbols and “BOOM!” graphics. The collection comes out this month.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Clae ‘Kennedy’ Sneakers

For Clae, it’s all about simplicity and timelessness. Keeping with their designs of the past, Clae have just released the Kennedy – a no-bullshit, basic sneaker. Thus far, we’ve gotten a glimpse of their canary yellow sneaker with white trim, though more colour ways are set to drop soon. With the stripped down style comes stripped down prices, and at $80, it’s definitely recession friendly (though not necessarily only for the, ahem, “recessionistas”). Keep an eye out for more information.

Krink x Married to the Mob Shirts and Markers

Craig ‘KR’ Costello’s signature marker brand, Krink, and Married to the Mob have come together to release a dope double-branded shirt for a timely almost-Valentine’s Day collabo. With a graphic featuring Krink’s trademark metallic drops over top of Married to the Mob’s signature pinks, these black or white shirts are the perfect combination of classic street art and femme fatale chic. To complete the union, the set also includes Krink markers featuring a pink label bearing MTTB’s kisses. Romance is in the air, no doubt. Keep your ear to the street for the set’s availability.

Jordan Retro One High

Jordan Brand keeps the Retro One’s coming out and this latest variation appears to be one of the best yet. This brilliant sneaker comes in an infrared/black colorway and is comprised of a super-clean and lightweight nylon upper. Pretty basic, but its subtlety makes it a clear standout. Look for this Jordan Retro One Hi to release this Saturday, the 14th at select Jordan accounts globally. This makes for a superb V-Day present for the sneaker lover in your life!

Upper Playground 10-Year “Best Of” T-Shirt Series

Not too many companies in this industry have achieved the things that Upper Playground has done. For their ongoing 10 year anniversary celebration, UP has released a “Best Of” collection of 10 of their most popular prints of all time. Artwork done by the usual suspects of Jeremy Fish, David Choe, Sam Flores, & others make the cut… and sew, so get your hands on a piece of history while supplies last. Available now @ UP retail locations and the UP web shop.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Ricky Powell x KIKS TYO Limited Edition T-shirt

Fans of legendary Hip-hop photographer Ricky Powell can rejoice in the knowledge that his iconic images will finally be available on limited edition T-shirt series. The collaboration between Powell and KIKSTYO is available now on pre-order via www.kikstyo.com. This is a first come first serve deal ending February 15th 2009 so act swiftly if you want a piece of this collection.

Henrik Vibskov Spring/Summer 2009 Collection

Its that time of year again to ditch the safe, muted colors of the winter and trade up for colorful spring colors. Henrik Vibskov’s spring/summer 2009 collection is definitely colorful and well articulated. Keen cuts and vibrant prints make this a nice addition to even the most discriminant wardrobe. Jackets, cardigans, socks, shorts and button ups all get the nod and will be hitting select accounts very soon. What’s the deal with the funky hats though??

Monday, February 9, 2009

This is the only Post FOR TODAY cuz this was so DOPE!!!!! M.I.A What UP

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Thursday, February 5, 2009

Black Man of the Day:Earl Lloyd

Earl Francis Lloyd (born April 3, 1928 in Alexandria, Virginia, USA) is a retired American basketball player. He was the first African-American to play in the National Basketball Association, in the 1950-51 NBA season. Three other blacks played in the same season: Chuck Cooper, Nathaniel Clifton, and Hank DeZonie.
Lloyd, a forward known for his defense, played collegiately at West Virginia State College, was selected in the ninth-round of the 1950 NBA Draft by the Washington Capitols. On October 31, 1950, Lloyd became the first African-American to play in an NBA game, against the Rochester Royals.
Lloyd led West Virginia State to two CIAA Conference and Tournament Championships in 1948 and 1949. He was named All-Conference three times (1948-50) and was All-American twice, as named by the Pittsburgh Courier (1949-50). As a senior, he averaged 14 points and 8 rebounds per game, while leading West Virginia State to a second place finish in the CIAA Conference and Tournament Championship. In 1947-48, West Virginia State was the only undefeated team in the United States.

Supra Spring 2009 Vaider Hi

Living in the large shadow of its big brother, the Skytop, the Supra Vaider Hi has seen it fair share of success. For spring 09, Supra steps it up a another notch with 5 new offerings of the model. Seen here a royal/white colorway & black/gum colorway with a “thumbprint” upper. Also dropping is the Vaider Hi in the TUF treatment in both black and white. More good product from the luxe skate brand.

Upper Playground February 59Fifty Caps

In time to cure the February blues, Upper Playground has released an excellent pair of New Eras. Continuing their tradition of pairing with amazing artists, they’ve collaborated with San Francisco-based artist Michael Sieban and Japanese black-and-white extraodinaire Usugrow. Usugrow’s design depicts a menacing skull, but the belle of the ball is Sieban’s ‘Dear Deer’ grey cap. Featuring an almost-roadkill deer, it’s a surprisingly chipper-yet-hilarious design. Check out Upper Playground’s retailers of their webstore for more details.

Jhung Yuro SS09 Footwear

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Japanese luxury footwear designers Jhung Yuro have just hit us up with a little preview of their spring and summer collection. Along with their men’s offerings, they are featuring their first ever women’s streetwear collection, including templates entitled ‘the Candy Stripes,’ ‘the Mids,’ and ‘the Straps,’ (pictured above). Their collection displays a creative use of colours, textures, and designs. With clunkier soles, some of these demonstrate a style hearkening back to mid-90s skate shoes - definitely interesting. Keep your eyes peeled on the Jhung Yuro website and select retailers.

Matt W. Moore’s Black & White Bangers Vol. 5

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Graphic designer Matt W. Moore is publishing Black & White Bangers Volume 5, a compilation of twenty-seven 6″ by 6″ unbound prints. Moore designed all of the monochromatic artworks by his own hand and reprinted them on heavyweight stock. Only 500 of the sets will be released. Each are signed, numbered, and retail for $28.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Undefeated Billboard Project x Neil Leifer

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For all of you La Brea streetwear stalkers, Undefeated has updated the billboard above their chapter store. Working once again with photographer, Neil Leifer, the image is a dope shot of a quarterback, with a super long exposure setting. Nice work to switch things up a little bit… if you are in that neighborhood, check it out.

Alex Pardee x Zerofriends ‘The Watchmen’ Prints

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In anticipation of the now-controversial film being released this spring, acclaimed artist Alex Pardee and Zerofriends have released a set of prints based on The Watchmen graphic novel series. For sale at the New York Comic convention, which runs from February 6-8th, the print features the gritty, populist heroes of the Watchmen through Pardee’s eyes – meaning that they’ve been re-interpreted through his quasi-grotestque, dark lens. New Yorkers, pick one up at the convention!

We Kill You x Hello Brute Resin Toys

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In dual celebration of Valentine’s Day and their one year anniversary, Toronto artists-designers-merrymakers We Kill You have grand plans to release mysterious a new figure; they’ve also paired with Jon Knox, of Hello Brute fame, on a project that should yield yet another excellent toy (pictured above). Using the familiar bespectacled-rabbit design from Hello Brute, We Kill You is seeking to apply their familiar loud neon-bright, seizure-inducing (yet completely joyous) style to Knox’s venerable toy. It’ll certainly be an interesting blend of styles, and it’s a project worth keeping an eye on – check We Kill You for more updates.

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Black Women of the Day:Daisy Bates(I love this Lady)

Daisy Lee Gatson Bates (November 11, 1914 in Huttig, Arkansas – November 4, 1999 in Little Rock, Arkansas) was an American civil rights leader, journalist, publisher, and author who played a leading role in the Little Rock integration crisis of 1957.
Bates' mother was murdered while resisting three local white men who were attempting to rape her. Her father left the family shortly after her mother's death and she was raised by friends of the family, Orle and Susie Smith.
At the age of 15, Daisy became the object of an older man’s attention. L.C. Bates, an insurance salesman who had also worked on newspapers in the South and West. L.C. dated her for several years, and they married in 1942, living in Little Rock. The Bates decided to act on a dream of theirs, to run their own newspaper, leasing a printing plant that belonged to a church publication and inaugurating the Arkansas State Press. The first issue appeared on May 9, 1941. The paper became an avid voice for civil rights even before a nationally recognized movement had emerged.
In 1952, Daisy Bates was elected president of the Arkansas State Conference of NAACP branches.Read More!!!

Freshjive Spring 2009 At Reserve

Reserve has announced the arrival of the Spring 2009 from non other than Freshjive. Expect some great looking graphic print T-shirts and more from this non-conformist street wear brand. Hit Reserve on North Fairfax Ave. for all the goods and more.

XLARGE 2009 Spring/Summer Lookbook

Japanese street wear giant XLarge has just unveiled its Spring/Summer 2009 lookbook. This seasons range has a vibrancy and casual vibe to it with subtle nuances displayed across the board. Particular attention to detail is evdent in the denims, but overall, they’ve produced a refreshing line that will go down well with all street wear aficionados. Get at the lookbook here.

A Bathing Ape Valentine’s 2009 Shirt

Just in time for Valentine’s Day is this “cute” shirt by Bape. The graphic features the ever lovable Baby Milo with his baby, holding hands on a heart. AWWWWWWW. This will definitely get major spins from streetwear lovers who would rather spend $90 on a t-shirt, rather than roses on their girl/guy. The Baby Milo Bape tee will be available very soon, as a limited release we can assume.

DC Admiral x Lemar & Dauley Double Label Project

Coming back again for round 2 is Lemar & Dauley with DC shoes. This second foray explores a nautical theme on DC’s Admiral hi top, from the DC Life Collection. Subtle details include a houndstooth inner lining (a L&D favorite), tonal L&D branding on the heel section, and regatta sailboats sprinkled throughout. This 2 sneaker collection is now available at select DC/L&D accounts across the globe. Set sail!

FLY53 Spring 2009 Collection

UK label FLY53 has put together a strong collection for Spring 2009. A full line of stylish, unconventional jackets will keep you snug on the windy days to come, while a number of bright, fresh new tees will liven up your closet. The entire collection will be available soon via Coutie.

Monday, February 2, 2009

Black Man Of the Day: John Johnson

Arthur John Johnson (March 31, 1878 – June 10, 1946), better known as Jack Johnson and nicknamed the “Galveston Giant”, was an American boxer and arguably the best heavyweight of his generation. He was the first black Heavyweight Champion of the World (1908-1915). In a documentary about his life, Ken Burns notes: "For more than thirteen years, Jack Johnson was the most famous, and the most notorious African-American on Earth".
Read More!!

Black Fact For Today

February 2nd 1862
District of Columbia abolishes slavery

February 2nd 1839
Inventor Edmond Berger patented the spark plug.

February 2nd 1912
Herbert Mills, of the original Mills Brothers Quartet, was born in Piqua, Ohio. The highly successful quartet was known for its smooth harmony.

Crooks & Castles Notorious Tees