johnnyjames

A considerable array of my travels, admirations and thoughts of peculiarity in life.

[wmagazine]

Meet Riccardo Tisci’s dream team (and get an exclusive look at his new collection).

Photos by Ethan James Green.

[newyorker]

“Michelle is a tremendously strong person, and has a very strong sense of herself and who she is and where she comes from.” “Barack has helped me loosen up and feel comfortable with taking risks.” In 1996, the photographer Mariana Cook visited a young Barack and Michelle Obama, who were just on the brink of their political life. On the Obamas’ 25th wedding anniversary, read what they had to say about each other when they were just a young couple in Chicago. 

[juicydistortion]

J.W Anderson SS18

[crfashionbook]

7 exhibitions you shouldn’t miss this April

[johnjamesmuller]

Yesterday, NYC #spring (at Central Park)

[newyorker]

“Opening Night,” Carter Goodrich’s cover for the new issue, depicts a curious scene familiar to anyone who has visited Chelsea on a Thursday night: gallery visitors who appear more interested in each other than they do in the art. 

[johnjamesmuller]

New York, in a nutshell. #NewBasel 

[gucci]

Presenting the Gucci Spring Summer 2017 eyewear film by Petra Collins. In the artist’s grandmother’s nostalgic Hungarian apartment, two kids abandon reality for an eccentric dream, going from the countryside to a traditional thermal bathhouse. Throughout the video, key designs from the new Gucci Eyewear collection are worn by the protagonists. Music: “Eyes without a Face” Baustelle.

[johnjamesmuller]

Bravo Alessandro x Petra

[thehollywoodrep2197-yahoopartner]

Milan Fashion Week: Pussy Power Takes the Runway at Missoni, Bottega Veneta's Forties Femmes

No allusions here. Missoni doubled down on the political message that has threaded through Milan Fashion Week, sending out models in the pussy hats made famous by last month’s Women’s Marches and calling on audience members to band together to fight for rights. It was a rallying cry of sorts on the fourth day of Fashion Week, which saw Rodolfo Paglialunga’s last collection at Jil Sander and retro-tinged looks at Bottega Veneta.

Missoni

In case it hasn’t been clear - from Moschino, Prada and Versace - fashion is making a statement. At Missoni, designer Angela Missoni sent out models in pink pussy hats inspired by the recent Women’s March on Washington before the family took to the catwalk.

Victor Boyko/Getty Images (3)

“In these uncertain times, we join together,” she said as the entire Italian clan joined her on the runway. “The bond that unites all, that respect all human life. Please join me and my family on this catwalk and let’s show the world that the fashion community is united and fearless!” Guest were given knit cat hats of their own and joined the Missonis onstage to chants of “People have the power.”

Antonio de Moraes Barros Filho/WireImage

Show notes said that the collection was “prepared to confront the conflicts and dilemmas of our contemporary society: the conditions, needs and rights of all women and minorities.”

Opening with Gigi Hadid in a plaid coat, the brand showed off its traditional knits to a remix of Gil Scott Heron’s powerful “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised” and Missy Elliott’s “One Minute Man.” One standout look was a sheer argyle knit dress, send out in three colors - red, white and blue.

Victor Boyko/Getty Images

Bottega Veneta

The early morning show welcomed Michelle Monaghan and Elizabeth Debicki for a combined men’s and women’s show.

Estrop/WireImage (3)

Creative director Tomas Maier sent out retro 1940s-inspired shapes, with a classic French twist updo and soft front wave that recalled Ingrid Bergman. Eva Herzigova opened the show in riding jodhpurs and a knit sweater with a strong puff shoulder before a series of rust and gold capes and coats in caramel and coffee. Adding more evidence to the theory that a Milan fashion show can’t take place without a Hadid or Jenner, Kendall came out mid-show in a sleek cinched-waist black dress and the sheer polka-dotted tights we’ve seen everywhere and should already be in your closet.

Jacopo Raule/Getty Images

Monaghan, who spent many seasons in Milan when she was a model, said returning to the city always brings back memories. But modeling might seem more intimidating now following the invention of Instagram. “It’s an entirely different world than when I was in college,” she said. “It was a lot more relaxed back then when I would travel around and model in the summers.”

Men’s looks were anchored by oversized bow ties, a nod to formal daytime dressing.

Victor Boyko/Getty Images

A gold and black-striped dress was a particular stunner, as was a delicately studded cape and a copper Lurex dress. The strong shouldered suiting would be perfect for all your evening cocktail party needs or joining the resistance.

Victor Boyko/Getty Images (2)

Jil Sander

Shoulders were also the focus in Rodolfo Paglialunga’s last collection at Jil Sander. While still larger and exaggerated, they were soft and sloped here. Mostly monochrome in variations of deep autumn tones, the last looks were dresses of sparkly Lurex, which is fast becoming the fabric of the season. Though forgiving, some of the padded coats might be a tough look for anyone not model-thin, but they were warm and cocooning, a trend we’ve seen elsewhere - because in these turbulent times, we all need a hug.

Estrop/WireImage (3)

Louboutin Eyeliner Launch

To celebrate the launch of his eye makeup line, Christian Louboutin held a cocktail party in the hidden gallery of design collective Leclettico.

Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images for Christian Louboutin

Walking into the doors of the warehouse space, located in a former industrial area of the city, was like falling into Wonderland, with each room full of oddities including a lifesize gorilla statue and a dining set with miniature chairs. The house decided to hold the event in Milan instead of Louboutin’s hometown of Paris because “there’s something in the air,” with Milan feeling more energetic this season.

Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images for Christian Louboutin

[wwd]

[johnjamesmuller]

Pat Cleveland, the legendary model and mom of darling, Anna.

[johnjamesmuller]

ADIDAS DOES IT AGAIN, NYC

Hungry? Grab a burger. Thirsty? Grab a Heineken. Dessert? Mister Softee, duh! The ADIDAS CUP came through, again with free bites and beverages at Pier 5 at the Brooklyn Bridge Park with hot soccer dudes, atheluxury fashionistas and free-beer enthusiasts. 

[johnjamesmuller]

Another World You Are, California.

In June of this year, my father, brother, sister and I met in San Francisco for an impromptu planned, 9-day road trip to Portland.  We’re not one to plan things far in advance, so I figured “hell yes!” was the only response to the proposed trip in two weeks.  

For anyone who hasn’t been to San Francisco, minimize this window and check flights on Expedia. The slope-hilled city is filled with the most gorgeous landscape from its classic Mediterranean architecture to its raw edge of Mission and Castro streets.  The cities diversity and rich hippie culture was a warm welcome to Frisco and I looked forward to channeling my inner Mark Twain in experiencing my coldest winter - this summer.

We opted out of the long cable car lines and opted into Zipcar – the most convenient app you can have on your smart phone when visiting (or living in) major cities.

I’m sure several travel stories will tell you to go to Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghirardelli Square but I found the most beautiful and scenic view over the Golden Gate Bridge is in Sausalito.  The view is reminiscent of the French Riviera and Cinque Terre in Italy overseeing the city from the bay with boulders covered in free crawling crabs with plenty of charming restaurants and shops. Once back in the city we explored Mission Street where if you’re into thrifting you’ll immediately gravitate to vintage stores and a slice of frisco’s grunge. 

We stayed at an AirBnb in Bernal Heights and were told by our hosts not to leave without seeing the park that was just one steep block up from our apartment – and what a view it was. Bernal Heights Park offers the only 360 degree view of San Francisco - a real life Where’s Waldo puzzle that’ll leave you gazing for Uncle Jessie and the gang. After our two-day stay in SF, we hopped on wheels and drove to Napa.

California’s wine country – Sonoma, Napa Valley, St. Helena are all just over an hour outside of SF.  Rich California soil, clay colored and so wondrous – no wonder anything grows there. I’ve been to several vineyards in Tuscany and the east coast of the U.S but, I have never seen so many grape vines, olive trees and other fruits growing so sporadically.

We stayed in Napa at the Meritage resort – a superb stay in Napa Valley on the premises of Trinitas Winery. Morning walks consisted of comparing the leaves of Cabernet and Merlot vines with bunnies crossing your path and some scenic views that merely felt like a dream. 

We drove out to St. Helena and visited Castello di Amorosa – the only 13th century Tuscan appearing castle in the United States created by 4th generation winemaker Dario Sattui. The castle was built only seven years ago after several decades of traveling, researching and studying medieval castles in Italy and Europe. The land highlights spectacular views of Calistoga with more grape vines than the eye can see; complete with sheep and lamb grazing the lawn of olive, apricot and apple trees while strawberries, lavender and berry bushes landscape the ground. 

Blink and you’d surly believe you’re far away on a historical European landmark.

For lunch - sister winery, V.Sattui Winery in Sonoma has an Italian market with your picnic and royal lunch essentials.  Snag one of the several dozen picnic tables, a bottle of Riesling, manchego and a proscuitto- mozzarella Panini for an outdoor lunch.  Along the ride home we passed by the estates of Beringer and Mondavi  - I’m sure every winery, anywhere in Sonoma County is worth a visit. 

For the perfect week-long getaway, visit San Fransisco and Sonoma County - you’ll find yourself revived, clear-headed and ready to start life over in California.

Saving Oregon’s must-sees for another post - stay tuned!

[johnjamesmuller]

Buika, la cantante en vivo

There are artists who strive to perform and there is Buika, whose natural husk in each and every word she sings is simply hypnotizing. 

The artista española desde Palma de Mallorca sang her pain and her pleasures barefoot, with braids well passed her waist wearing only a stately red dress. Opening with a rendition of Exodus, she tested her vocal chords with blusters that sounded like they were exuding instruments. There was something about seeing the show at the Adrienne Arsht Center in Miami vs. New York City - it was the cities vibrant culture. The latin influence, the guests dressing up to see a show, the dancing and passion that evoked the audience was enchanting. In New York, it seems everyone is already so jaded and detached that not even an artist can excite such an expression.

Buika sang for two and a half hours without a single break, praising her band and her whiskey, throughout. I strongly recommend a listen to the outstanding artist, with a disclaimer that it’ll probably happen again and again. She told the NY Daily News, “When you sing flamenco it seems like you can’t control what’s going on with you. You can feel its magic.”  

I can attest to feeling the magic that April evening in Miami. 

[johnjamesmuller]

Some Time Away for What Should be a Day

We’re a solid quarter into the year and what a year it’s been. Between hectic NYC life, travels, moving and work life - it’s been hard to find a second to breathe let alone a moment for relaxation; but, wherever you are, you have to stop and find that moment. In fact, call Haven Spa and schedule it. 

Tucked behind the doors at 250 Mercer in New York’s SoHo neighborhood is the luxe and renown spa, Haven. Here you can mentally remove yourself from the hustle and bustle of city life, take moment to steam in what feels like your own personal spa before getting a stellar massage or facial in one of their state-of-the-art treatment rooms. They time everything so accurately, you can take your time and still feel like you’re the only one being taken care of. As you’ll find here, the spa is perfectly decorated feeling like your walking on a dream - or cloud nine. Treatments range from “bitch” to “geek” massages or Fire & Ice facials, to name just a few. 

Ladies, or long haired gents - after your treatment, they even have a blowout bar to walk out looking (and feeling) like a million bucks for some affordable rates. Give Haven a call to book today [phone] or click here to learn more. 

[johnjamesmuller]

Spring energizing us all 🌿🌶🌷 #seasons in #nyc #theresnothinglikeit #lovemycity

[johnjamesmuller]

2016: The Right Start in Samaná

The last day of the year kicked off inimitably as we drove the scenic route into the mountainous peninsula of Samaná. The city in the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic is unlike any other area many tourists of the country visit. There aren’t many luxury, all-inclusive resorts or perfectly paved roads - there are however, real residents of the beach town, fresh and inexpensive food and unprotected beaches that will blow your mind. 

We stayed at the top of an unpaved, narrow, steep, winding road via AirBnB at the Eco Guest House of Li & Beryl. The branch off the main property is situated on a cliff with views of Las Terrenas mixed greenery and aquamarine waters. The quaint villa is seemingly held up by stilts that are covered in mosaic tiles by the properties owner who’s artwork can be found all throughout the grounds. In the mornings, the sounds of hummingbirds buzzing, waves crashing and wildlife awakening makes one feel as though this retreat from reality is part of some sort of magical dream. Once awake, sights of horses and goats chowing down breakfast, while butterflies fluttering among the hundreds of fist-sized coral-colored flowers quickly turn that dream into reality. The eco villa is solar powered and built of natural materials that have been carved to perfection by local artists of Las Terrenas. 

Within a five minute drive, (longer due to some potholes and strategic maneuvering of our SUV), we were laying on the sand with a fresh coconut in our hands. Restaurants that line that beach will feed you like a king for less than $10 USD or about 500 RD pesos. Driving through the city center of Samaná, heading to a completely unprotected beach, Rincon - tour guides offer services to show guests smaller islands off the coast, El Parque Nacional Los Haitises and one of Samaná’s most unique attractions, the likelihood of seeing Humpback whales in their natural habitat. The whales migrate from the north Atlantic to the warm waters of Samaná every year, where they breed and stay for approximately 2 months beginning in mid-January.

From fresh food to real adventure and the most scenic views the Caribbean has to offer, Samaná is a melting pot of the countries most valuable offering, culture. 

[johnjamesmuller]

Christmas in Casa de Campo

A Dominican Republic destination for thousands of tourists fleeing reality also houses an array of international residents. The small town of Casa de Campo has a resort, several golf courses, a marina and 100+ luxury homes ranging from 3 to 30 bedrooms. Located just outside of the southeast coastal city, La Romana - Casa de Campo is a well-developed property of over 7,000 acres. 

We spent the beginning of our Christmas vacation in Altos de Chavon, a european-inspired, Mediterranean village located above the Chavon River in the affluent community of Casa de Campo. The neighborhood can easily be compared to the Hamptons, with a more distinct Spanish influence. The beach at Casa de Campo, is Minitas, a small stretch that houses The Beach Club by NYC giant, Le Cirque. All of the restaurants continue on the luxury scale offering portions that may hardly satisfy a supermodels diet and the drinks are priced higher than most meals you’ll find anywhere else in the country. We enjoyed our relaxing three day stay, but were happy to adventure out of the plutocratic resort and continue to discover the Dominican Republic - its food, its culture, its people.

[johnjamesmuller]

Three Art Fairs and Three Hundred Parties - Your ABMB Guide

The tents have popped up on Miami’s sandy white beaches and colorful neighborhoods of Wynwood and the Design District. Art Basel Miami Beach is back. 

Every December, hundreds of thousands art admirers & enthusiasts draw into surrounding neighborhoods of Miami Beach for fairs, exhibitions, dinners and parties. The energy of Miami thrives while tourists from all over the world check-in to posh hotels or sweet pads via AirBnB. Check out the must-see exhibitions & fairs and of course, the parties going on this week.

SCOPE, one of my favorite shows at Basel is celebrating its 15th anniversary of the basel-run. The art fair pops-up on the sand (at 10th Street on the beach) and opens its doors to thousands of baselers and hundreds of exhibitors. Work is comprised of contemporary art and creative programing. A must see, December 2 - 6, 2015. 

X Contemporary, the newest art fair to ABMB is presenting art from emerging to mid-career artists. The fair will host several discussions and guest DJ sets. Arte Collective will present the first installment of Hecho en Cuba, curated by Yubal Márquez Fleites. The work shown is composed of original artwork produced by Cuban artists who still reside in Cuba. X Contemporary is located conveniently in Wynwood on NW 24th Street. Check out the programing here for X that goes through Sunday, December 6th. 

PULSE Miami Beach returns to Indian Beach Park (4601 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach) starting with a big "Opening Celebration" at 4 p.m. on December 1st featuring a panel discussion put together by Hyperallergic, an interactive piece by Kate Durbin called "Hello, Selfie!" and a live performance by Kalup Linzy. On December 5th, PULSE celebrates the City of Miami via a talk at 5 p.m. on "Future Visions of Miami" and a "Sunset Celebration" from 5 to 7 p.m. Fair visitors can check out "TARGET TOO," an installation referencing items sold at the stores, originally on view in NYC last March. There's a complimentary shuttle from the convention center, and the fair is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Saturday.

The Parties

Tuesday, 12/1

Favela Beach with Mr. Brainwash, Jus-Ske, Ruen, and Reid Waters. 11:30 p.m., Wall Lounge, 2201 Collins Ave., Miami Beach; 305-938-3130; wallmiami.com. Tickets cost $50 to $70 via wantickets.com.

Walls of Change Opening Night, Wynwood Walls, 2516 NW Second Ave., Miami. Free and open to the public from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m.

The Surf Lodge's Snarkitecture party hosted by Out Of Order magazine and editor Dorian Greenspan, the Hall South Beach, 1500 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. 10 p.m.; by invitation only.

Soho House Kick-Off Party hosted with White Cube and Vinyl Factory, Soho Beach House, 4385 Collins Ave, Miami Beach. 8:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.; by invitation only.

DuJour Magazine party with Hilary Swank, Nan Bush, Bruce Weber, Adrien Brody, and more, Delano, 1685 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. By invitation only.

Wednesday, 12/2

Behrouz & Friends Art Basel Edition with Damian Lazarus, Behrouz, and Bedouin, Wall Lounge, 2210 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Tickets $50 via wantickets.com.

The Surf Lodge's Jeremy Scott party, the Hall South Beach, 1500 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. 10 p.m.; by invitation only.

Casa Bacardi curated by Swizz Beatz, 35 NE 29th St, Miami. Artists TBA.

William Mackrell's live installation presented by Gen Art, Flaunt Magazine and Dawn of Man, Mondrian South Beach, 1100 West Ave., Miami Beach. 7 to 10 p.m.; by invitation only.

Le Baron Pop-Up, FDR at Delano, 1685 Collins Ave., Miami Beach.

Thursday, 12/3

Life and Death Art Basel with Tale Of Us, Mind Against, Thugfucker, and special guest Richie Hawtin, Mana Wynwood, 318 NW 23rd St., Miami. Doors 9 p.m.; tickets $15 to $66 via residentadvisor.net.

Connan Mockasin, Bardot, 3456 N. Miami Ave., Miami. Doors 10 p.m.; tickets $15 to $20 via showclix.com.

Immortal Technique with Hasan Salaam, DJ Static, and El B. 7 p.m. at Churchill's Pub, 5501 NE Second Ave., Miami; 305-757-1807; churchillspub.com. Tickets cost $25 plus fees via eventbrite.com. Ages 18 and up.

Fuck Art Let's Dance with Kim Ann Foxmann, Justin Strauss. Psychic Mirrors (live), and Miami Players Club, Electric Pickle, 2826 N. Miami Ave., Miami. Tickets $10 to $5 via residentadvisor.net.

Friday, 12/4

When Pigs Fly presented by Link Miami Rebels with artists TBA, Trade, 1439 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Tickets $15 to $35 via residentadvisor.net.

Paris Hilton, Wall Lounge, 2210 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Tickets $50 to $80 via wantickets.com.

Jamie xx and Four Tet, presented by III Points and Young Turks, at Mana Wynwood, 318 NW 23rd St., Miami. Doors 9 p.m. Tickets $25 to $400 via showclix.com.

Avey Tare (Animal Collective) DJ set with Byrdipop and Uchi (live), Bardot, 3456 N. Miami Ave., Miami. Doors 10 p.m.; tickets $15 to 20 via showclix.com.

Nakid Magazine Issue Release Party celebrating Jen Stark. 10 p.m. Friday, December 4, at Libertine, 40 NE 11th St., Miami; 305-363-2120; libertinemiami.com. Admission is $10.

Baby's All Basel present by Poplife and Baby's All Right. Location TBA. RSVP at babysallrightmiami.splashthat.com.