Fashion. Style. Culture. - a streetwear blog -

First step to being good is knowing you suck

2010-02-08T13:00:00.000-05:00

When I first started in graphic design I met this guy who wanted me to do a logo for him. At the age of 23 my ego was bigger than that of an ignorant 21 year old (the pinnacle age of ignorance of ones ability). I was honest and admitted to myself that I haven't done many logos before and the the ones I have done wasn't very good. But I'm not the young 22 anymore, I have six months of experience now! Plus I would put all my energy and ability into it so it will be awesome.

After several days I came up with many concepts and I had one that was particularly clever and I was quite proud of my awesome skills. I have pulled it off! When I gleefully presented to him the concepts, he politely told me that it all sucked. And I politely told him to F off, well I wasn't so polite.

My work sucked so much it didn't take long even with my testosterone enhance delusion of my ability to realize that it really did suck. No matter who you are and what you do, when you start at something you will suck! According to Malcolm Gladwell in Outlier all masters in their industry took 10,000 hours of practice to get to where they are. And all greats will agree. Watch the interview with Ira Glass below and you'll fully understand.

Often I work with graphic designers who due to the lack of experience produces something that is not the greatest. Not that they don't have the ability or the potential, just because they lack experience, the idiosyncrasy of communicating visually. I would tell them the weak areas and some would get offended. I would feel bad but then I would get offended myself, I would think "How arrogant to think you can achieve greatness with so little sweat and dues, it is a disrespect for all the greats who have dedicated decades of their life into designing."

For those that end up becoming great in their field, they all have to put in the hours. There are no shortcuts. For myself I have not gotten to 10,000 hours yet, I have gone a long way from my early days but I am excited to see what kind of work I will be producing once I hit the 10,000 hours mark and just the club of the elites.

Product Model Jonathan Steen Takes on the Big Screen in Zombie Flick

2010-02-05T10:00:00.000-05:00

Looks like Veronika London isn't our only movie star on the rise - product model Jonathan Steen has been in Guelph working on a zombie endeavor that is set to premier this coming April in Toronto. Produced by Color Red Productions, the zombie film Dead Genesis sets itself in a future where many cities and states have been abandoned and left to die off. However, several self-sufficient hunting groups have been established to take on the threat in a war aptly referred to as the "War on Dead." Jillian Hurst, a former news writer and amateur documentarian, has set out to make a pro-war propaganda film to support the "W.O.D." She joins up with a pack of renegade hunters known infamously to North America as "the deadheads," which includes Steen's role as Felix. The moral dynamics and hardships of fighting in a war against the undead are told from several different perspectives.

Join the Facebook fan page here: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=81642827086&ref=ts

Also, be sure to watch the trailer at the bottom of this post.

Weekly Style Redux: Spring Ahead of the Shopping Crowd

2010-02-05T09:00:00.000-05:00

The countdown to spring is starting soon, and stores are slowly stocking up with their spring/summer collections. Why not take the advantage and scout for hot buys so that it seems as though you are on your A-game for fashion.

Get this look online:

1. The obvious necessity here is the JUZD Original shirt, get yours from the online shop for $79.35 CDN

2. Jazz up your stockings with these popular thigh-high tattoo stockings/nylons. Our favorite is the butterfly stockings selling for only $18.00 USD on etsy.

3. Sometimes you're going to have to splurge a little, even in our redux edition. Go for the Banana Republic belted tulip skirt for $69.50 USD, which serves for business casual and just plain ol' casual.

4. Accentuate your outfit with a chunky accessory. Go for the marine look, which is bound to be making its rounds soon, by donning a nautical chain bracelet from Martin + Osa for $34.50 USD.

Click here for more JUZD Weekly Style

ManCrunch.com Refused Airtime During Superbowl Commercial Breaks

2010-02-04T12:00:00.001-05:00

The JUZD team is taking the day to give you the scoop on another one of our product models, Jonathan Steen. While Veronika seems to be hitting the big screen with her movies, Jonathan's latest commercial has been getting loads of interest from television networks. Why? Because the advertisement is featuring a dating service - for gay men.

The Toronto based company, ManCrunch.com, has been trying to buy airtime for its advertisment during the Superbowl, but it has been told that it's not appropriate. In the letter of rejection that CBS wrote, it states "At CBS, our standards and practices process continues to adhere to a process that ensures all ads — on all sides of an issue — are appropriate for air. We will continue to consider responsibly produced ads from all groups for the few remaining spots in Super Bowl XLIV.”

Excuse me? Has CBS not been paying attention to choose what it will air this year? Aside from the usual large breasts dangling out of skimpy bathing suits, flashy dancers, and men and women making more than just goo-goo eyes at one another, CBS has also chosen to air a commercial far more controversial: college football player Tim Tebow's stance against abortion. While the argument about being pro-life or not is still up in the air for debate among many, you'd think that we have moved beyond the issue of man and man together. After all, the US is finally going forward and acknowledging (okay, some states) same-sex marriage. That's a far bolder step already taken in accepting differences; let alone the many celebrity couples that are in the media.

We are not going to declare CBS to be anti-gay, because that would be a step too far. But we are going to say this: there is a certain irony in not airing a commercial that promotes a gay dating service and in having millions of viewers watching dozens of men in spandex collide into one another. If you are willing to air an advertisement on a topic that is far more sensitive than homosexuality, there lies no sense in rejecting a humorous advertisement.

Watch the ManCrunch.com advertisement below and tell us if it really that much of a big deal not to air.

Product Model London adds the sexual element to the film’s chemistry in Black Eve

2010-02-04T10:00:00.000-05:00

Our dear product model Veronika London has recently started working on a new horror flick brought to you by Fusion Films Entertainment called "Black Eve." The movie centers around a woman with psychic abilities, who retraces the last steps of her fellow guests at a Halloween party, in a closed down department store, who all turn up dead by morning. London, being named the "Megan Fox of Hollywood North" which simply means "complete sex appeal", has been cast to play the sexy pregnant nun which will leave us drooling during some hot scenes. The film is being directed by horror guru Ryan Andrews (Behind Closed Doors), and also stars Neil Green (Slightly Used) and Canadian hip hop sensation Peter Jackson (Indian Girl) to name a few. The film is set to release later this year.

For now you can check out London in our Fall-Winter 2009/2010 line.

King West Supports Haiti Charity Event

2010-02-01T10:18:00.008-05:00

On Feburary 2nd, the spirit of King Street West community will come alive at the King West Supports Haiti event to demonstrate its support for the Haitian people and to raise funds to aid in the country's recovery.

The first event will take place Tuesday, February 2 at Kiwe Kitchen. It will be a sit down dinner beginning at 8pm for approximately 50 people to include a 3 course meal and complimentary beverages. The ticket price is $100 plus any additional donation. Fifty percent of each ticket will go toward the relief fund. In addition there will be several items that will be auctioned off at the end of the night.

The second event will take place Tuesday, February 2 at Century Room. All earnings from the door will be donated to the Haiti relief fund. Blond:ish will in house to DJ and the vibe will be amazing!

Juzd has graciously donated 8 t-shirts for the silent auction that will be held at Kiwe to raise funds for Haiti relief. Featured in this capsule collection is a hand crafted t-shirt by Jing Liu himself. It features a 14 step process which took 10 hours to develop the first 5 shirts ever made. It is extremely labour intensive and is a testament for Jing's passion in creating the perfect garment. It is truly a labour of love. The style "Ball Like An All-Star" will be auctioned off, only 3 of these shirts were ever made.

Spotlight: TeoJasmin Bags and More!

2010-01-25T09:41:00.014-05:00

Design and print-making company TeoJasmin was founded in 2001 by French printmaker Angeline Bailly. Based out of Paris, France, Bailly expertly applies creative prints to canvases, cushions, stickers, and bags of all sorts. The depictions of fruit and desserts emploued by TeoJasmin are simplistic, yet eye-catching, and bright, yet subtle. In addition, the small Parisian company beautifully reupholsters furniture pieces with world renowned designs such as photographs of The Beatles, James Dean and America's Route 66.

TeoJasmin's tote bags would make a great addition to the wardrobe of any neo-hippie London teenager, or any teenager around the world for that matter. It's hard not to ignore some of the most iconic figures of the past 100 years printed on your bag or on the back of your chair. Here are some of my favourite TeoJasmin creations:

Weekly Style Redux: Fight for those savings!

2010-01-22T10:00:00.000-05:00

The weather is bound to start cranking up the heat sometime soon, so you should get started on compiling that spring and summer wardrobe. Here to help you is the JUZD team for this week's pursuit in finding an outfit to pair your JUZD tee for less than $150.

Get this look online:

1. Able to wick well, in addition to insulate, the Tech tee can be worn in all seasons. Pick yours up from the JUZD shop for $79.35 CDN

2. Make the plain fashionable with your JUZD tee - pull on a pair of stain resistant relaxed fit trousers from GAP for $49.50 USD

3. These might not be a pair of Maui Jims, but they're just as slick. These aviators are available from Land's End for $29.99.

4. And for that yuppie look, top it off with a driver cap from FOSSIL for $24.00 USD

Click here for more JUZD Weekly Style

How To Wash Your Raw Denim Jeans

2010-01-18T11:00:00.000-05:00

To many denim aficionados, raw denim is considered an art form. Raw denim is essentially a pair of jeans in its natural state, protected from the intervention of human hands. It is a reflection of the wearer's body and possesses the unique ability to tell the story the denim has imprinted through the test of time.

Jing Liu has embarked on a journey with his Naked and Famous denim for the last 18 months, which coincidentally is roughly the same time Juzd has been around. One could argue these jeans has chronicled the journey Juzd has taken.

Below you will find the video documentary to how to wash your jeans the proper way while minimizing the loss of indigo. Washing raw denim allows you to remove the dirt, grime, sweat, and stains that have accumulated which will preserve the life of the denim.

Part 1

Part 2

Washing Instructions:

1. Fill tub with lukewarm water.
2. Add a small amount of laundry detergent. I recommend Woolite Dark for minimizing indigo loss.
3. Place jeans into bath tub turned inside out if you prefer. Move around in water to loosen up any dirt and grime.
4. Rinse jeans with clean water until soap is gone.
5. Hang to air dry.

Before The Wash

After The Wash

Eco-Friendly Feature: Aime

2010-01-15T22:05:00.013-05:00

When Monica Mei graduated in 2007 from Ryerson University, she won the coveted Standard Broadcasting Corporation's $25 000 Business Plan Competition to start her own designer label. As an extension of her personality, she coined the name Aime as a means of conveying her philosophy of "Love Yourself. Love Others. Love Luxury."

With pieces that are versatile, comfortable, and stylish, one cannot help but wonder from where Monica draws her inspiration. To fulfill the needs and wants of the modern woman, Monica draws upon nature and her travels. Having traveled plenty in her youth with her parents, Monica continues to see more of the world. In what she calls her "digital detox," the inspiration for the Spring/Summer 2010 line was found in the dolce vita lifestyle of the west Mediterranean where laughter and yachts lined the coastline.

Wanting to do her part to promote a more sustainable environment, Monica strives to use all-natural or more sustainable fabrics, such as Tencel, silk, bamboo, organic-cotton, and mother-of-pearl. In addition, production is overseen by the young designer herself as the line is produced Canada.

In addition to a welcomed presence at this past LG Fashion Week, Aime has received acclaim from many notable media outlets, including Fashion Television, FLARE, Slice.ca, and National Post.

Aime can be found in retailers across Canada and the US:

New York City – Martier
Chicago - Perchance Boutique
Miami – At Ease on Sunset, Kristine Michael
West Palm Beach – Rhythm Clothiers
Boca Raton – Martier
Winter Park, FL – Tuni
Toronto – French Accents, TNT Hazelton Lanes, TNT Eglinton
Vancouver - Eugene Choo, The Velvet Room, Body Politic
Montreal – TNT

For more information, please visit http://www.aimeluxury.com

Weekly Style Redux: Exposing Sweet Deals

2010-01-15T19:24:00.003-05:00

This season is crazy with some hot and some cold. So to be on the safe side, you should be wearing layers in order to make sure that you're always comfortable. Bamboo is one of the greatest fabrics out there; wicking, as well as insulating, you are sure to be perfect for the freezing Toronto winter or the warmer New York weather.

Get this look online:

1. Grab the All-Star JUZD tee for $75.20 from the online JUZD shop.

2. Throw on a pair of Saturday Sweats, Lined Hoodie from LL Bean, which is on sale now for $42.99 USD

3. Not too into the skinny jean? Here's an option: Washed Twill Khaki (British Khaki). It is not too baggy, and fits well against the body. And what's even better? It's on sale now for $29.90 USD on Levis.com

Click here for more JUZD Weekly Style

Kidrobot: Fun For All Ages

2010-01-11T11:10:00.002-05:00

Founded by Paul Budnitz in 2002, Kidrobot has quickly become the most sought after and well recognized designer of vinyl designer toys and apparel. Aside from having an easy to navigate online store, they have retail locations across New York, San Fransisco, Los Angeles, Miami Beach, and even a bar/lounge at Circa nightclub in Toronto.

By time he reached high school Paul Budnitz was already coding safety analysis software for nuclear power plants. On the side, he was creating video games for the Commodore 64. He later enrolled in Yale for photography, film, and sculpture. While still in college, he started his first business venture creating clothing for museums which eventually evolved to modifying Levi's vintage clothing and popular sneakers.

Fast forward to 1997, he caught on to the latest technology at the time which were the MiniDiscs by Sony. He would hack MD players and sell them through his website Minidisco.com which was coded by himself and would eventually sell for $7 million in 2001.

With his new found wealth and perhaps sheer coincidence, he stumbled upon the art of edgy vinyl toys that were originating from Japan and China. He was able to identify these toys as a form of popular art and included the passions he enjoyed in life: music, fine arts, fashion, cartoons, and graffiti. By integrating all the elements that he loved in life, this became the framework for Kidrobot.

The most appealing aspect of Kidrobot's toys have to do with the plethora of unique artists that they collaborate with. Artists from all walks of life have collaborated with Kidrobot. Here are some that stands out:

Huck Gee - Meet Shiro Kidninja the 7" assassin

David Flores x Disney: Probably my favourite piece its Thumper from Bambi

Burton - A collection of ski jacket, pants, and snowboard

Amanda Visell - One of the most detailed pieces the Wooden Donkey Dunny

eBoy

Colette

Krink

Frank Kozik

Tarina Tarantino - Jewelery collection

Takashi Murakami - Prolific contemporary Japanese artist

Tado - Famed UK duo

Lacoste - An exclusive set of 3 shoes that is paired with a Kidrobot toy

Playboy - Miss November 1978

When you read up on Paul Budnitz's accomplishments and his philosphy in the way he conducts business, you will be inspired by his words of wisdom. One of my favourite quotes is:

“The other secret is not to be afraid of doing something stupid because, if it wasn’t stupid, everyone would be doing it. Kidrobot is without a doubt the stupidest, riskiest thing I’ve ever done, which means it’ll probably be the most successful and most exciting.”

Paul's willingness to take risk has paid off as Kidrobot has quickly become one of the most internationally recognized brand. Coined as the father of designer toys, Paul Budnitz has been able to launch his own apparel line with Swizz Beatz along with being inducted in the Museum of Modern Arts. No easy feat considering Kidrobot has only been around for 8 years. Kidrobot continues to push the envelope, refusing to settle with the status quo. They are able to create edgy designs with this mantra:

“Limited edition, for me, has to do with how big a risk we can take with a design. The riskier the design, the smaller the edition because then we have to please fewer people to sell the toy. What an awesome concept!”

Top 10 Men's Lifestyle Magazine

2010-01-06T11:00:00.009-05:00

Last week we introduced to you the Top 10 Streetwear Sites you should check out for your latest fashion needs. Today we will talk about lifestyle magazines you should check out to stay current with the latest technology, fashion, hot women, and of course maintaining your health. You will also be able to find out what is Jing Liu's favourite magazine to read. Read more to find out!

1. Maxim Magazine

The most coveted men's magazine featuring the hottest ladies gracing each month's cover. Featuring topics ranging from technology, women, sports, sex, and comedy you'll find the variety of topics enough to satisfy your craving. My favourite column is of course the Hometown Hotties. Check out the 2009 winners to see if you're neighbour is on it.

2. GQ

Short for Gentlemen's Quarterly, a magazine focused on fashion, style, and culture for men, through articles on food, movies, fitness, sex, music, travel, sports, technology, and books. Now that winter is upon us full force, you should definitely read the article on Best Winter Essentials, staying warm while still looking cool.

3. Rolling Stone

Featuring some of the most iconic musical artist of every generation this magazine is devoted to music, politics, and popular culture. Be sure to check out the article on Go Inside The Battle Over Global Warming on how to do your part.

4. Vibe

A music and entertainment magazine founded by producer Quincy Jones. The publication predominantly features R&B and hip-hop music artists, actors and other entertainers. Check out the most anticipated 2010 Albums and see if you're agree with Canadian native Drake being #1 on the list.

5. Esquire

The very meaning of Esquire is to denote social class and this magazine offers nothing less. Known for printing on an over sized magazine with glossy paper, you will find unconventional topics gracing its pages. To check out some pretty ladies, be sure to read the Women We Love section.

6. Nylon Guys

A magazine that focuses on pop culture and fashion. Its coverage includes art, beauty, music, design, celebrities, technology and travel. The name Nylon derives from the magazine's often featured articles featuring New York and London

7. Vice

Not to be confused with Vibe magazine, this edgy and controversial magazine features content ranging from sex, drugs, violence, crime, and social issues. They have an interesting column on fashion DOs and DON'Ts that you should definitely check out to stay fresh.

8. Men's Health

The men's guide to fitness, sex, women, workouts, weight loss, health, nutrition and muscle building. You should check out this month's article on the best and worst cities for guys.

9. Men's Vogue

Men's Vogue is a twice yearly men's magazine that covers fashion, design, art, culture, sports and technology.

10. Antenna

Considered a niche magazine by all accounts, this is Jing Liu's favourite magazine to read. The content you will find mirrors that of which you will find in an Asian pop magazine. It features content ranging from upcoming clothes and shoes from your favourite brands to lifestyle and popular culture.

Juzd Clothing - Friendly For Tattoos

2010-01-04T11:00:00.001-05:00

Getting a tattoo can be a painful experience, but taking care of it after can be even more of a pain. Since Juzd clothing is made from bamboo, it will actually make caring for your tattoo much more easier and hassle free.

1. Juzd clothing is anti-bacterial, the biggest concern after getting your tattoo is risk of getting infection from your open wound. The anti-bacterial properties of the clothing will eliminate bacteria and your chances of infection.

2. Juzd clothing is breathable. By regulating your body temperature and the flow of air, it promotes healing of your wound. This will speed up the recovery time needed for your wounds to heal.

3. Juzd clothing provides UV protection. This will reduce exposure to the sun which will extend the length of your tattoos along with preventing dryness in the skin.

4. Juzd clothing is moisture resistant. Moisture is the most suitable environment for bacteria to grow. By absorbing excess sweat from your body, this will minimize the chance of infection.

5. Juzd clothing is powerfully insulating. It keeps your cool in the summer and ensures you won't sweat excessively.

So the next time you get inked, remember to wear your Juzd clothing to help with the recovery process.

Weekly Style: Set Your Sights on a New Style in 2010

2010-01-01T17:00:00.001-05:00

Happy new year! 2010 is bound to be an explosive year for the JUZD team, and it should be one for you too! Have you set your goals? Make sure that you have included "being more stylish" on your resolution list. And we're here to kick start that goal accomplishing for you for under $150 in our redux edition.

Get this look online:

1. Hop on over to the JUZD shop to grab your own Stylez tee in white for $79.35 CDN

2. On sale now for almost 50% off, snag a pair of Straight Fit Straight Leg jeans by Lee for only $26.99 USD

3. White watches are in this season, so be sure to add one to your accessory drawer by purchasing the Nixon's Men Time Teller on sale for $44 USD on Amazon.com

Click here for more JUZD Weekly Style

Caring For Your Juzd Clothing

2009-12-29T14:04:00.013-05:00

The reality is many people don't know how to wash their clothes properly. Most of us spend a considerable amount on clothing, so it's only natural to maintain our clothes looking new for as long as possible.

Below you will find tips and tricks to keep your Juzd clothes looking new from the day you bought them. These tips can also be applied to all your other clothes as well.

1. When possible wash your clothing in cold water with the washing machine set to gentle. Washing your clothes in cold water minimizes shrinkage and loss of colour. In the event you have stubborn stains that needs to be removed, then you can proceed to lukewarm water.

2. Wash your clothes inside out, it will lengthen the life of the print of the shirt since it reduces the amount of agitation from the spin cycle.

3. Use laundry detergent that is friendly to the colour of the fabric. Since I own mostly dark clothing, I recommend ZERO® by Woolite® For All Darks Detergent which can be found at your local supermarket. It is also the detergent of choice when washing your raw denim to minimize indigo loss. They also make a detergent specifically for light colours as well.

4. It is best to always to air dry your clothing. The drying machine will cause significant shrinkage, fades the print, and unnecessary wrinkles. Ideally you would like to lay the garment flat to prevent stretching around the neck and shoulders from using a hanger. However, if you must use a hanger you should use a smooth wooden hanger or a satin padded hanger. Or if you're eco-friendly like Jing, you will have your own custom bamboo hangers. Metal and plastic hangers typically leave an indent at the shoulder which will deform your clothing around the neck and causes the sleeves to stretch.

If you follow these simple tips, you will be able to protect your investment and keep your clothes looking new for a long time to come.

Product Model Veronika London - "Damage Control" and "Shoot Me Naked"

2009-12-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

Apart from an acting and modeling career, Veronika London has collaborated with Toro-TV to be the host of their new segment “Damage Control”. The synopsis of the show is helping men how to get out of “sticky situation” in either their personal life or work related issues. London’s confident no- drama approach to solving problems, gives viewers a refreshing new look which is bound to cause some controversy. The segments will premier in early 2010 and can be found on www.toromagazine.com. When asked what makes her so qualified to give advice about relationships she said, "My last relationship made me a nutcase, although I will forever thank him for screwing me over. He taught me the best lesson, 'Learn to make myself happy and it's better to be the other woman that gets all the attention.'" In addition, London is releasing an e-book called "Shoot me Naked - changing the Invisible to change the Visible". When we asked her what it was all about she said: "I genuinely want to help people and add value to their lives. I get asked quite frequently how I stay in shape and deal with the pressures of looking a certain way in the entertainment industry. In this e-book I explain how one has to train their mind and have a proper blueprint to condition themselves to thinking a certain way in order to achieve success. Ultimately, your believes and the way one has been conditioned will shape the results of ones outer world, this includes ones image to a certain extent." The e-book will available in the new year on her website www.insidelondon.us.

In the meantime check her out modeling our line over at the JUZD shop.

Weekly Style: "Face" the Bargains and Happy Holidays!

2009-12-25T11:00:00.000-05:00

The JUZD team would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and happy holidays! But to advance in on the boxing day sales, we thought we might just share another look with you so that you can keep your eye out for these items in case you don't feel like shopping online.

With the Face shirt, we'd thought that a pair of hot shades, ripped-up denim and an aviator hat should keep you hot for the winter season. Check out what we've found for you below in our redux editon.

Get this look online:

1. Keeping the budget low may be hard, but there are definitely some good deals to be had. Take for instance this pair of Roxy Skyscraper Super Skinny Jeans, which are available for $54.50 USD at Zappos

2. For a hot deal, grab this pair of cat eye sunglasses, which are a new release from Forever 21 for only $5.80 USD.

3. Knit hats are in and are adorable, so why not combine this trend and the aviator trend together? Grab your Norko hat from Fur Hat World, which is proudly Canadian, for $54.95 CDN.

Click here for more JUZD Weekly Style

Top 10 Streetwear Sites

2009-12-23T10:02:00.004-05:00

Let's face it, keeping up with the latest fashion trends and newest releases can be a hassle. But if you want to stay one step ahead of the game, take a look at some of these sites. This is my list of the top 10 must read streetwear sites.

1. www.hypebeast.com

A conglomeration for all your everyday needs. While there is a strong focus on clothing and sneakers, you will find a nice mixture of arts, culture, music, and technology for all your other needs as well.

2. www.complex.com

Provides the latest news in clothing, sneakers, girls, movies, music, and practically everything else you can imagine for your daily dose of lifestyle news.

3. http://denimology.co.uk/

A blog dedicated to denim aficionados. Whether you're into raw denim or a vintage distressed pair of jeans, I'm sure you'll find something here that perks your curiosity. They tend to have photos of celebrities and they let you know where to cop the particular pair of jeans they're rocking.

4. http://tokyofashion.com/

A very interesting site that separates itself from the rest of the pack. While it provides the latest feature in Japanese fashion, my favourite aspect of the site is the Street Snaps section. There you will find random people on the streets of Tokyo and a description of all the latest fashion items they are sporting.

5. http://www.superfuture.com/

Provides maps for various cities around the world. Extremely helpful if you're planning a trip aboard and want to know where are the best places for dining and shopping. There is also a message board filled with a strong community of individuals who are fashion conscious.

6. http://www.osakanines.com

Provides apparel advice from top to bottom and all the accessories you'll need. A different approach to your traditional blogs who tend to feed you the same needs. Instead you'll find a wide array of articles written by the blogger which ranges from raw denim progression to interesting tidbits from across the globe. For more information on raw denim, you can check out Jing Liu's encounter with Naked & Famous founder.

7. http://bbcicecream.com/blog/

Billionaire Boys Club's Official Blog. A great escape from reality where you'll find the latest in technological wonders, architectural marvels, art, music and of course all news related to Pharrell.

8. http://www.upscaleswagger.com/

Upscale Swagger, is a lifestyle of higher living. Upscale Swagger features items on Fashion, Music, Movies, Celebrities, Cars, Real Estate, and other Luxuries.

9. http://stylecrave.com/

Focused more on the luxury lifestyle and clothing, provides a refreshing outlook on the fashion world from a different perspective.

10. http://a-man-fashion.blogspot.com/

A fashion focused on the writing styles of articles for those seeking that polished and refined look. A great place to spot all the latest fashion trends.

Japanese Luxury: Are Those Days Over?

2009-12-21T12:03:00.008-05:00

While the global recession has affected countries around the world, it's interesting to see how these tumultuous times has affected everyone else. The Japanese has always been one of the world's biggest spenders in the luxury goods market, however that's all about to change.

In the past, Japanese resorted to conformity rather than individualism in order to fit in with the rest of the hip crowd. They would save every penny in order to purchase that one big ticket item: a pair of rare sneakers or designer handbag. Sacrifices were made to luxury experiences such as a fine meal at a restaurant, a day at the spa, or even a vacation away from home. The Japanese are now as likely to spend their hard earned money on luxury experiences than on luxury goods.

International luxury brands like Versace, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Hugo Boss have either closed stores in Japan or made cancellations to store openings. Their survival in Japan were maintained by their strong brand image alone and the necessity to conform with everyone else rocking these luxury items. Now the Japanese are resorting to thrift stores to get their hands at a piece of vintage clothing in order to express individualism. Rather than owning the same luxury brand items in order to fit in, being able to own a piece of vintage clothing that no one else has seems to be a more attractive option. This trend is further described by Jing in The Old New Trend: Vintage. Despite the cultural differences we may have, it's always interesting to see the same trends occurring. Looking broke is the new cool.

Weekly Style Redux: One for the Bargain Shopper

2009-12-18T09:00:00.001-05:00

Christmas is right around the bend and while we're still searching for presents, we are coming to the end of that bonus that we got from work to use for presents, and scrounging up the pennies that we have left. So when you have little money to work with, here are some other options for you to pair up your JUZD shirt flipped inside out, which is now available at the JUZD shop.

Get this look online:

1. Go for these shiny leggings by Volcom for $38 USD at PacSun.com - these leggings are hard to get a hold of for a decent price, so grab'em while you can!

2. We're going to cut it real close with the budget today by adding the Burton Sly Vest, which retails for $99.95 USD, but it's worth it with its sleek look and faux fur trimmed hood.

3. And last but not least, pick up these cool oversized sunglasses at Forever 21 for only $5.80 USD

Click here for more JUZD Weekly Style

Weekly Style Redux: Be Suave With Your Wallet Too

2009-12-10T18:52:00.003-05:00

Christmas is around the corner, and while you may be out shopping for others, don't forget about what you want too. There's no need to have to wait for boxing day to treat yourself - hey, you can even use elements from this look as a stocking stuffer to pair with the Corona JUZD shirt that you will be giving this Christmas.

Get this look online:

1. For the slim figure, try on the BDG Shrunken Blazer, which is available at Urban Outfitters for $68 USD

2. Keeping on the $150 budget, add some denim into your outfit with the Crease & Frayed jean from Heritage1981 for $32.90 USD

3. And finally, keep your cool with this pair of Dymytrov sunglasses for only $12 USD at Aldo

Click here for more JUZD Weekly Style

Go Behind the Scenes of a Photoshoot!

2009-12-03T09:00:00.004-05:00

Ever wonder what it's like to be a photoshoot? Well have your curiosity quenched as JUZD's lead designer, Jing Liu, takes you behind the scenes of the fall/winter product photoshoot with filming courtesy of our friends at The Biz Media. With the mic in hand, Jing also gets opinions from others working on the shoot. Check out the video below:

Now that you've seen the behind the scenes, be sure to make your presence on the fashion scene by purchasing your own JUZD Fall/Winter 09-10 shirt today.

Photographer: Jason Wong
Models: Veronika London, Tazito Parafuzinho, Jonathan Steen
JUZD Team: Katrina Hernandez, Barb Leung, Jing Liu, Anna Nguyen, Han Su Yan
Studio: G3 EPOCH Studios
Filming: The Biz Media

2010 is the year Ed Hardy officially dies

2009-12-02T11:00:00.000-05:00

2010 is the year Ed Hardy officially dies. I've heard a lot from people in the industry that Ed Hardy is ugly and that it's too busy and so forth. It's easy to hate on Ed Hardy but the truth is that the aesthetics are not inherently awful. Yes, some of them were and they especially were hideous when the brand sold out and tried to milk the trend as much as it could.

People in the fashion industry hate Ed Hardy and it's rumored that people who are into tattoos do not wear the brand. But it was a craze, and Christian Audiger made a lot of money it from it. More money than he made from Von Dutch. The fact is that they over sold it, they licensed everything out. Like a pyramid scheme the last to enter will be the big losers.

Being in the industry I know a lot about Ed Hardy that the consumers don't know. They just see their pieces everywhere and thinks it's cool. Now they are starting to clue in and the sales of anything Ed Hardy have dropped. The stores to whom I've spoken have not ordered anything Ed Hardy for spring and are desperately trying to get rid of the current inventory.

In addition if you look at the new Ed Hardy designs you'll notice that the style have changed. And the logo has changed too. It is usually not a good sign when a brand changes his style and logo. Very few lines are able to reposition themselves successfully and when you are such a well known brand and is so strongly associated with something it'll be impossible for you to change.

Whatever happens, though, there is no denying that Christian Augdier is a great marketer.
Check out a photo of myself and him at the Project show, one of the most read post.

The Old New Trend: Vintage

2009-11-30T11:00:00.000-05:00

I read that the inspiration for the current flannel craze originated from thrifty hipsters getting their shirts for cheap from second hand stores. Now all the lines are going after that has been and washed up look. Even though the "vintage and distressed" look has always been in vogue, you will see a lot more in the upcoming seasons, especially since the recession has put a lot more emphasis back on used and worn-out clothing.

The whole hipster scene has dramatically influenced fashion. This style is about being chill and looking cheap, but it is completely contradicted by the cost of some of these "vintage" shirts. It isn't cheap to look "cheap." The amount of effort and the process that goes into producing a shirt that looks old is actually one that ends up costing a lot.

Click here to check out my listing of the top 7 trends of the coming season.