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The First Major Plus-Size Male Model Takes on His Critics

Photo: Leonardo Corredor / Courtesy of IMG

In Astoria, Queens, model Zach Miko lives an unremarkable life: he wakes up, walks the dog, goes to the gym, and binge watches HBO’s “Westworld.” But he’s in the midst of doing something remarkable: Miko is the first plus-size male model to sign with a major modeling agency.

A few years ago, the 26 year old, who was then trying—mostly unsuccessfully—to make it as an actor, felt unaccepted and often dismissed because of his size, 6’6″ tall with a 40-inch waist. “I’m an all-around big guy and always have been,” Miko tells Yahoo Style.

Then he landed a modeling gig for Target’s “big & tall” clothing line, which included Miko wearing an “Ugly Holiday Faux Cardigan Sweatshirt” and a t-shirt with “UNWRAP THIS” emblazoned across the chest. That’s not usually the kind of campaign fashion dreams are made of, but IMG Models called him shortly afterwards. The most elite modeling agency in the fashion world, whose roster includes supermodels Karlie Kloss and Gigi Hadid, wanted to debut a “Brawn” or plus-size for guys division and saw Miko as the perfect model to start with.

“The industry is completely crazy,” Miko said. “It’s funny because I got rejected from acting jobs because of my size, but IMG was like, ‘We’ll take you! We’ll create a whole new thing for you to be part of!’”

Miko has since added big clients like Levi’s and Old Navy to his modeling portfolio and has grown a considerably large following of over 60K on Instagram. Not everyone online is supportive though.

Photo: Leonardo Corredor / Courtesy of IMG

“The Internet is a really dark place,” he said, “And it really brings me back to my childhood, when I was constantly bullied because of my size. I can get 100 wonderful comments, but I just need one person to say something awful like that I’m ‘disgusting’ or ‘promoting unhealthy lifestyles,’ and I’ll be in a bad mood for days.”

Though it may be difficult for Miko to ignore all the negativity he’s subject to online, he’s decided to battle social media altercations with a “they go low, you go high” mentality — something he’s learned from fellow plus-size models (and close friends) Ashley Graham and Candice Huffine (and Michelle Obama of course).

“It’s ‘water off a duck’s back,’ we say. You know, I want to fight back, but have to realize that the Internet has given people a mask to be anonymous,” he said. “Of course, I’m bullied all the time, but at a far less volume than Ashley [Graham] and Candice [Huffine].”

This is why Graham, who considers herself a “body activist” has especially advocated for a change in conversation surrounding the modeling industry. “I’m very proud of my work as a model, and I’m even more proud of the work we’ve all done to raise awareness for body positivity and size diversity within the fashion industry,” she wrote in an article for Lenny Letter. “However, I refuse to let others dictate what my body should look like for their own comfort. And neither should you.”

Miko, too, agrees that he has a responsibility to make change happen. “I often ask myself, ’does my size define me?’, but really, I get to write my own definitions,” he said, “and that is a great responsibility.”

#_revsp:wp.yahoo.style.us #_uuid:49d41d9e-add2-3b45-ac4a-236571468485 #power look #plus size #_author:Sam Lane #_lmsid:a0Vd000000AE7lXEAT #fashion

Ballet’s Bad Boy Becomes Subject for New Documentary

Photo by Johan Persson; courtesy of Sundance Selects

Ballet’s “bad boy” Sergei Polunin is the subject of a new documentary from IFC Films/Sundance Selects called Dancer, which debuts in theaters Sept. 16.

Polunin, who served as a principal dancer at the British Royal Ballet when he was only 19 years old — the youngest dancer ever to hold the position — has had a tumultuous career, which the film highlights.

In his past, he famously walked out on two major productions in 2012 and later admitted to many wild nights of clubbing while high on cocaine. His appearance, too, is uncommon in the ballet world; his torso is covered with bold, graphic tattoos.

Photo by Johan Persson; courtesy of Sundance Selects

But despite his rebellion — and his critics — Polunin has bounced back in the world of dance and pop culture with features in glossy fashion magazines like CR Fashion Book and starred in Hozier’s viral music video “Take Me to Church.” Polunin currently serves as a principal dancer with both Stanislavsky and Nemirovich-Danchenko Moscow Music Theatre and Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre.

The film is directed by Academy Award nominee Steven Cantor with a special contribution from fashion photographer David LaChapelle.

#ballet #style #dancer

A Look Back at 80 Years of Olympic Basketball Uniforms

Basketball — which was invented by a Canadian in 1891 — was popularized in the United States after the U.S. team won the gold medal in the event at the 1936 Summer Olympic Games in Berlin.

Throughout the years, as the sport became recognized and played by other countries around the world, there was more competition for the U.S. team, who won gold at the Olympics from 1936 to 1968.

One of the greatest controversies in Olympic history was during the 1972 men’s basketball finals; the Soviet Union beat the US team by a single point — in the final three seconds — but some people credited the win to unfair referees and technical issues. Despite the chaos of that game, which went down in history, the U.S. team has won over 75% of the Olympic basketball tournaments to date.

This year, the U.S. team — with all-star players like Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and Carmelo Anthony — is once again dominating its competitors, putting them head-to-head against Serbia in the finals today, at 2:45pm on NBC.

Through victories and losses, we look back at 80 years of Olympic basketball uniforms.

In its first year, the Olympic basketball tournament was held on the outdoor tennis courts. Players wore cotton tank tops and short-shorts. (Photo: Getty Images)

In London, the Korean team wore simple uniforms, with “KOREA” emblazoned across the chest. (Photo: Getty Images)

At the 1956 Olympic Games in Melbourne, the US team defeated the Japanese team in style — in tiny, silk shorts. (Photo: Getty Images)

While the US team defeated Brazil at the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome, but you could argue that the Brazilians were still winning with their festive uniforms. (Photo: Getty Images)

Both the USSR and USA wore basic uniforms at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo; however, the US uniforms boasted more signage, on the front and back of the jerseys, and down the leg. (Photo: Getty Images)

Here, the US team celebrates their victory versus Cuba — but their elation was short-lived; the Soviets beat the US team for the gold in one of the most controversial games in history. (Photo: Getty Images)

In 1976, the Summer Olympics introduced women’s basketball. Interestingly, women’s uniforms were really quite similar to men’s (though the socks were higher). Here, the US team played Bulgaria in Montreal. (Photo: Getty Images)

Legendary coach Pat Summitt was carried by her team during their 1984 victory in Los Angeles. The women’s uniforms included graphic stripes, red, white, and blue piping, and of course, short-shorts. (Photo: Getty Images)

Team USSR wore all-red uniforms at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul when the won the gold medal. (Photo: Getty Images)

In 1988, women’s uniforms become more complex, with more graphic prints and “USA” emblazoned twice on the jersey and shorts. (Photo: Getty Images)

In 1992, men’s basketball shorts became noticeably longer than previous Olympic Games — but still, above the knee. (Photo: Getty Images)

The ladies borrowed from the men — or vice versa — in ‘92. Both US teams wore nearly identical uniforms. (Note: the socks are getting shorter). (Photo: Getty Images)

In 1996, the U.S. team defeated China — and all other teams — winning the gold medal. China wore simple, all-white uniforms with Chinese signage down the leg. (Photo: Getty Images)

Both Australia and Zaire brought color to the court with vibrant yellow and green jerseys — and, always, fresh white kicks. (Photo: Getty Images)

At the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Argentina played with untucked jerseys and baggier shorts than we’d seen before. (Photo: Getty Images)

In 2004, Australia wore green onesies! These uniforms — similar to road biking ones — were made of Spandex and zipped up on the sides. Team USA opted for baggier, two-piece uniforms. (Photo: Getty Images)

In 2008, while Spain wore all-white, the USA wore all-navy uniforms. Here, Lebron goes in for the slam dunk. (Photo: Getty Images)

In 2012, the U.S. women’s team wore yet another iteration of their typical uniform — this time in white and red — with hardly any blue. (Photo: Getty Images)

We conclude our uniform recap with Lebron James, just doing what he does best. (Photo: Getty Images)

#rio 2016 #basketball #slideshow #fashion #style #_uuid:a0e96ecd-0b4b-3e2d-8d37-7a1a04d07a4a

Enter the Door to Narnia, New York City’s Most Magical Vintage Shop

Photography by Roy Beeson for Yahoo Style

At Narnia Vintage, in Brooklyn’s hip Williamsburg neighborhood, shoppers often describe their experience at the small, hidden boutique as “magical.” This is perhaps in part because of its spiritual decor — crystals outlining the store’s walls, crocheted tapestries, and once even a yurt in the backyard where people could meditate on hot summer days.

But it’s also a destination for fashion lovers, who can score some serious one-of-a-kind pieces, like an archival Yves Saint Laurent jacket (long before Hedi Slimane and Stefano Pilati) or that never-been-seen Maison Margiela dress circa sometime in the 1990s.

Narnia’s owner, Molly Spaulding, calls her shoppers “treasure hunters” — and rightfully so, as many of them tend to keep Narnia’s “treasure chest” of designer vintage a secret. “The highest compliment I’ve received was from a shopper, who admitted that they won’t tell any of their friends about the store,” Spaulding said, “as they wanted the clothes all to themselves!”

Yahoo Style caught up with Spaulding, who dished on her favorite vintage haunts and important tips for clothing collectors.

Yahoo Style: How long have you owned Narnia? Molly Spaulding: Narnia opened its doors in 2002. It opened with a partner under another name originally, but after two and a half years, I became the sole owner of the shop, renaming it Narnia.

YS: What do you look for when buying vintage pieces for the store? MS: There’s generally a feeling or sensation of some kind that draws me to a specific piece — a pattern, stitch, or texture — and the evidence that someone’s hands have touched the garment.

YS: What’s the most coveted piece in your shop? MS: That’s tricky! I’d say that it changes very often, but this pair of Z Cavaricci pants [pictured], as I love the marriage of patterns and shapes. I have also been very drawn to sheer Jean Paul Gaultier shirts, dresses, pants, and skirts.

YS: What are your tips for someone who’d like to collect vintage? MS: Clothes are for wearing. People should look for something that they love, bottom line. They should love to look at it, love the way it feels on, feel comfortable — and, it should transport them to another aspect of life.

YS: Vintage “rocker” T-shirts seem to be making a comeback, but they’re retailing for $300 to $500. How do you justify spending that much on a T-shirt? MS: I’ll never tell someone how to spend their money, but I definitely have paid unreasonable amounts for something that held some perfection in my eye. It’s difficult to beat a soft, worn T-shirt. Though I can acknowledge that it’s exorbitant.

YS: What are some of your favorite vintage shops? MS: La Rena, which was on Avenue C in Manhattan. I am also really loving Anna Corinna in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It’s a mix of objects and textiles that feel very personal.

Belén, who works at Narnia, wears juxtaposing patterns: a Jean Paul Gaultier top from the 1990s, Z Cavaricci trousers from the 1990s, and Balenciaga shoes.

An intricately beaded necklace, including turquoise and shells, is one of many unique accessories found at the boutique.

The store’s entry contains a selection of clean white ensembles.

A vintage, floral-patterned textile hangs in the dressing room.

The decor at Narnia also has a retro vibe.

Narnia also displays artworks by young — oftentimes local — artists, usually with some spiritual theme.

A crocheted tapestry hangs, leading to a dressing room.

This clothing rack provides vibrantly colored clothes, perfect for spring and summer.

Belén wears a sheer, embellished cocktail dress from the 1920s with vintage Jil Sander sandals.

#fashion #vintage #narnia #brooklyn #slideshow #vintage week

A Look Back at 116 Years of Olympic Track Uniforms

Olympic running has a tremendous history: It was the very first sport to be played at the 776 BC games in Olympia, Ancient Greece (somewhere between the future lands of Russia and Spain) — and has continuously evolved, incorporating more and more events like shot put, discus throw, and high and long jumps.

In Ancient times, Olympians didn’t wear much of anything (in fact, some ancient artifacts suggest that they wore nothing at all). But after a long hiatus, the Olympics were reintroduced in 1986 in Greece, once again. This time athletes wore clothes.

Beginning with the 1986 Olympics, we take a look back at the evolution of track uniforms over 116 years.

Robert Garrett, an American discus throw and shot put athlete, won gold medals for each event at the 1896 Summer Olympics. While competing, Garrett wore shorts to the knee and a tank top emblazoned with the U.S. flag (with 45 stars at the time). His shoes were a hybrid of ballerina flats and loafers. (Getty Images)

In 1904 Andarín Carvajal, a Cuban runner, wore what looked like an American baseball uniform (very appropriate for St. Louis, where the Summer Olympics were held), including high-waisted, oversized shorts (belted) and a long-sleeved jersey. Unusually, Carvajal’s uniform included a kind of schoolboy hat, too. (Getty Images)

The 1916 Summer Olympics were canceled, due to World War I. (Getty Images)

At the popular 1924 Paris games, runner Eric Liddell, often called the “Flying Scotsman” voluntarily withdrew from the 100-meter race because it fell on a Sunday, which went against his devout Christianity. (Later on in the week, he won a gold medal in the 400-meter race). Around this time, running uniforms became noticeably skimpier; tight, white t-shirts and shorter shorts. (Getty Images)

For the first time in 1928, the Summer Olympics in Amsterdam allowed female competitors like Ethel Catherwood, a Canadian high-jumper. Her uniform included a simple, cotton tank top and athletic shorts. (Getty Images)

The United States competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games in Nazi Germany with 18 African-American athletes, including Jesse Owens, a four-time gold medalist track and field star. Owens competed in a uniform that’s perhaps the most skin-baring to date. (Getty Images)

While at the 1936 Summer Olympics, athletics expanded so that there were 23 events for men and 6 for women. The women at this time wore a range of modest uniforms, like Germany’s field uniform (seen on the left), which included high-waisted trousers and a knit sweater, worn over a collared shirt. (Getty Images)

Representing Czechoslovakia Emil Zátopek, a long-distance runner, won many gold medals at both the 1948 and 1952 Summer Olympics. Here, he was photographed in 1948 after a victory, supported by his team in “Jugoslavija” emblazoned sweatsuits. (Getty Images)

Fanny Blankers-Koen, who competed at the 1948 Summer Olympics in London as a 30-year-old mother of two, was often referred to as “the Flying Housewife.” Winning four gold medals for the Netherlands, Blankers-Koen and her teammates wore baggy shorts and t-shirts. (Getty Images)

Abdul Khaliq (a.k.a. “The Flying Bird of Asia”) represented Pakistan while at the 1946 Summer Olympics held in Australia. In his lifetime, Khaliq won over 36 International Gold medals — and always rocked a burly mustache. He usually wore high-waisted running shorts with a tank-top tucked in. (Getty Images)

Team USA, led by Mae Faggs, competed in all-white uniforms, decorated with stripes. (Getty Images)

C.K. Yang, a long-jumper who represented China at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo, wore a uniform that more resembled team USA, with red, white and blue stripes. (Getty Images)

French runner Colette Besson added some color to the track at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City when she wore a bright blue t-shirt (which was rolled and tucked, to become a tank-top). She also often wore pigtails, tied with a red ribbon. (Getty Images)

Mary Peters, who won the Gold in Pentathlon at the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany, wore her team colors in a bold, graphic print — red and blue stripes. (Getty Images)

Famously, Bruce Jenner (now Caitlyn Jenner) lead the U.S. team in a colorful uniform, comprised of a red tank top, blue shorts, and white piping. (Getty Images)

Like at the 1976 Olympics, runner Carl Lewis wore a team USA tank top in red with white piping. His shorts (considerably shorter than seen before), matched his ensemble. (Getty Images)

Florence Griffith Joyner (”Flo Jo”) boasted the greatest style in track and field history — with custom-made suits (including an asymmetrical, one-legged uniform) and a six-inch manicure, decorated with stars and stripes. Her style legacy (and 100-meter and 200-meter records) remains unbeatable. (Getty Images)

Michael Duane Johnson introduced the “onesie” at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta. Johnson entered the Olympic finals donning a custom-designed pair of golden Nike spikes, made with Zytel (a kind of nylon, used for a number of different high strength impacts). (Getty Images)

At the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, French runner Marie-José Pérec wore a midriff-baring, cropped top on the track. (Getty Images)

Kenenisa Bekele, representing Ethiopia, wore the most vibrant uniform at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. He wore his country’s colors on his feet, too, with custom Nike shoes. (Getty Images)

At the 2004 Summer Games, we saw the “onesie” on a woman, worn by Veronica Campbell. Campbell certainly made a fashion statement with this onesie, in particular, with its aerodynamic, off-the-shoulder design. (Getty Images)

At her first Olympic Games in 2008, Dawn Harper won the Gold medal for the 100-meter hurdles. Her team USA uniform interestingly included this crop-top, polo shirt and short shorts. (Getty Images)

Usain Bolt is considered the fastest man alive. Bolt has a very big personality — and always reps his country’s colors (green, yellow, and black) while on the track. (Getty Images)

Jamaican-American track star Sanya Richards-Ross memorably competed in the 2012 London Olympics wearing all red. Her uniform included compression sleeves, used to cover lesions on her skin from a rare disease the Olympian battles with. (Getty Images)

At the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio, the US team swept the 100m hurdles event — winning gold, silver, and bronze medals — in matching outfits; including colorful shoes in electric green, yellow, and pink. (Getty Images)

#rio 2016 #slideshow #olympics #running #usain bolt

As Rugby Sevens Makes Its Olympic Debut, a Look at the Hottest Players

On Tuesday, rugby sevens debuted at the Rio Olympics. Rugby has been part of the Olympics in the past, the last time being the 1924 Paris Summer Games, but sevens is a faster version of the sport.

In sevens, teams are made up of only seven players who go full-out for seven-minute halves. The athletes on the 12 squads selected for the Olympics are all-stars, like Carlin Isles, from the U.S., a college track champ turned Detroit Lion turned Olympic rugby player; Brazilian twins Felipe and Daniel Sancery; and New Zealand’s Sonny Bill Williams, who gave up a professional boxing career to play rugby full time.

And these guys also happen to be ridiculously good-looking. So to kick off the sevens finals — which happens today at 4:30 p.m. ET on NBC — Yahoo Style takes a look at the hottest players in the event.

Carlin Isles, USA

Born in Ohio, Carlin Isles began his athletic career in college running track. Having set numerous school records, he was then signed by the Detroit Lions to play professional football. In 2014, Isles was introduced to rugby, quickly becoming the fastest player in the world. Quite active on social media (with a considerably large following), Isles posts a lot of shirtless selfies — and thank God he does. (Photos: @CarlinIsles/Instagram.com)

Juan Pablo Estelles, Argentina

The 28-year-old Argentine center appears (at least in photos) to be an ordinary dude; his social feeds include many selfies and shots of his family. And don’t miss his Team Argentina group photos — typically the guys are all shirtless. (Photos: @JPEstelles/Instagram.com)

Lewis Holland, Australia

The members of the Australian rugby team look like beach bums — and 23-year-old Lewis Holland is no exception. With long, dirty-blond hair and a penchant for fedoras, he’s a quintessential Aussie surfer dude. (Photos: @LewiHolland/Instagram.com)

Daniel and Felipe Sancery, Brazil

Yes, they’re twins! Both Daniel and Felipe Sancery joined the Brazilian rugby sevens team this year — and have quickly become team favorites. Daniel was also the only Brazilian player mentioned in “America Rugby News: 2016 Dream Team Players.” The Sancery duo appear quite close, often including each other in photos. (Photos: @Dan_Sancery/Instagram.com, @Fel_Sancery/Instagram.com)

Josua Tuisova, Fiji

On the small South Pacific archipelago resides Josua Tuisova, a star player for the Fiji rugby sevens team. Playing both wing and center positions, he was the recipient of the 2014-15 European Rugby Champions Cup for his outstanding performance during the season. On Instagram alone, Tuisova is followed by more than 20,000 people. (Photos: @Tuisova/Instagram.com)

Terry Bouhraoua, France

French Rugby Union player Terry Bouhraoua is no rookie. He has been playing in the league since 2005 (for Stade Français). Covered in tattoos, Bouhraoua unabashedly displays himself in photos working out, bathing, and in bed while reading a book. He is seemingly a playboy but, above all, a devoted team player. (Photos: @Terry.Bouhraoua/Instagram.com)

Ollie Lindsay-Hague, Great Britain

Ollie Lindsay-Hague currently plays for the Harlequin F.C. Rugby Union, out of London. Lindsay-Hauge is a valuable player, in that he plays wing, fullback, and scrum-half for the club team. When he’s not on the field, it appears that Lindsay-Hague is either hanging on the beach or at the pool. (Check out that bling in his pool pic (lower-right). (Photos: @OLindsayHague/Instagram.com)

Kenki Fukuoka, Japan

At only 23, Kenki Fukuoka has played in both the 2015 Rugby World Cup and, now, the 2016 Summer Olympic Games. The Japanese athlete plays aggressively — with agility and strength. When he’s not practicing, Fukuoka still hangs out with his teammates at Japan’s tourist destinations or at “Fuji-Q” (presumably a Japanese barbecue restaurant). (Photos: @Kenki11/Instagram.com, Getty Images)

Willy Ambaka, Kenya

In his career, Willy Ambaka has been a star player for both African and French Rugby Union teams; he started in Kenya, moved to Lyon, then returned to Kenya to play for the Olympic sevens team. Ambaka is perhaps one of the league’s most joyous athletes, always expressive — and with a big grin. (Photos: @WillyAmbaka/Instagram.com)

Sonny Bill Williams, New Zealand

Sonny Bill Williams is one of New Zealand’s biggest heartthrobs. He has been with the New Zealand Rugby Union (and League) for years, while managing to also balance a professional boxing career. Though he gave up boxing in 2013 to focus primarily on rugby, his physique is still very ripped. (Photos: @SonnyBWilliams/Twitter.com)

Werner Kok, South Africa

Like his Aussie competitors, Werner Kok appears to be just another surfer dude. However, Kok has been with the South African sevens for three years, helping his team win many matches. In photos, Kok likes to fish, go on romantic dates with his girlfriend (sigh), and take series of food Instas. (Photos: @WernerKok7/Instagram.com)

Pablo Feijoo, Spain

Pablo Feijoo is one of Spain’s best Rugby sevens players. He has played professionally for more than 15 years — and like the rest of his teammates, he’s very handsome too. Often hanging out at the beach (under a palm tree), Feijoo is a world traveler — and from the looks of it, he enjoys being with big groups of friends, drinking beer, and just chilling. Same. (Photos: @PFeijoo/Instagram.com)

#rio 2016 #olympics #summer olympics #slideshow #rugby #rugby union #rugby sevens #men #style #fashion #sports

Meet the Most Interesting Designer at New York Fashion Week: Men’s

Designer Feng Chen Wang at New York Fashion Week: Men’s. (Photo courtesy of VFiles)

This week in New York, predominately American menswear designers — many of them based in either Manhattan or Brooklyn — showed their spring/summer 2017 collections. But a few international designers, like Feng Chen Wang from China, participated in New York Fashion Week: Men’s.

At Wang’s presentation on Wednesday afternoon, which was an extension of her menswear show in London last month, the designer explained that the clothes were inspired by people. “This collection was really inspired by how people connect with each other nowadays,” she told Yahoo Style — and this was evident in the clothing, very literally.

Details. (Photo courtesy of VFiles)

On her clothes, Wang included small connectors via drawstrings that either accentuated or loosened the baggy jackets, shirts, and trousers. “See, if you loosen the drawstring, the clothes become like a big parachute,” she said.

Models at Feng Chen Wang. (Photo courtesy of VFiles)

Additionally, Wang made a point to cast an eclectic group of models because she considers her clothes to be unisex. “We really tried to mix different ethnicities and genders too,” she said.

Despite only having shown three seasons, Wang’s business is thriving. “We believe the future is bright,” she said reassuringly.

#men #fashion #style #nyfwm

Gypsy Sport Puts Real People On the Runway

Gypsy Sport’s Instagram casting call. (Photo: Instagram.com/@GypsySport)

In the fashion industry, there are typically two types of male models: skinny and muscular — and they’re usually under the drinking age.

This held true — in part — on day two of New York Fashion Week: Men’s, where we saw young, slender boys dominate the runways of designer collections like Tim Coppens and Robert Geller. One could also make the case that there wasn’t much diversity either, like at Geller’s show, where nearly three-quarters of the models were white.

But leave it to Gypsy Sport, an up-and-coming, CFDA-endorsed brand that cast 75 percent of its models through social media or from the street. Real people.

The brand’s designer, Rio Uribe, told Yahoo Style that his casting was aimed to include “young, global, and fresh models,” including kids of all races, sizes, and sexes, like Torraine Futurum, a transgender artist and model living in New York.

Artist and model Torraine Futurum in Gypsy Sport Spring/Summer 2017. (Photo; Getty Images)

“I think that the idea of Gypsy Sport is actual individuality,” she emphasized. “It’s not ‘individuality’ packaged by a brand that’s just trying to be edgy.”

In addition to Uribe’s model selection for Gypsy Sport, the clothes also boasted individuality: The looks resembled NBA jerseys turned into dresses, complete with frills, tassels, and lace. Yes, the clothes may be outrageous, but Gypsy Sport’s inclusion of real people certainly deserves commendation.

#men #nyfwm #models #diversity #race #style

At 4Knots Music Festival, Showgoers and Performers Prove That Great Style Doesn’t Have to Cost a Fortune

Photography by Roy Beeson for Yahoo Style

Last weekend at the sixth annual Village Voice 4Knots festival — New York City’s premier indie-rock music event — showgoers dominated Manhattan’s downtown South Street Seaport district in a range of eclectic, mostly vibrant styles. Yahoo Style caught up with some of the most fashionable attendees, sporting outfits ranging from sentimental hand-me-downs to high-end vintage garb (purchased at a heavily discounted price, no less).

Among the group, meet up-and-comers Diane Coffee, Bayonne, Mild High Club, and Boulevards (all of whom performed lively musical sets) as they dish on their music and personal style.

Mild High Club

Hailing from Illinois, Alexander Brettin of Mild High Club performed a well-received set at the 4Knots Music Festival last weekend. Brettin describes his music as “sophisticated, sleazy, and pseudo-jazz,” also adding that his band name came from a series of puns. He’s coincidentally been involved with other bands with hilariously pun-inspired names, such as Run-DMT and Salvia Plath.

Brettin’s casual look included a propeller baseball hat, striped T-shirt, vintage A.P.C. jeans, and a tote bag. He advised that the tote bag carried some precious cargo; “It’s very fragile because there’s a bong in there!”

Listen to Mild High Club here.

Katie Jackson and Adrienne Kirk

Jackson, a chef at Manhattan’s Annisa restaurant wears all vintage (including a Comme des Garçons T-shirt she found at Beacon’s Closet). Kirk, who’s visiting New York from California, works at San Francisco’s famous Tartine Bakery. She wears a vintage Fila shirt (a retro-turned-recently trendy brand that was featured at designer Gosha Rubchinskiy’s men’s spring/summer 2017 show in Florence last month).

Joel Rutten and Kriti Siderakis

Siderakis, who was born and raised in New York, wears a hand-me-down, printed shirt from her mother. “She must have bought it at Loehmann’s,” she said. Rutten, a prominent architect who has served as a project architect for the Acropolis Museum in Athens, wears an equally vibrant, zigzag-print shirt. “He got it at one of those Caribbean shops on Lexington Avenue,” Sidearkis added.

Brooke Clark

In a full-length, floral sundress and sporting pink hair accents, Clark looked festive and comfortable. She also has some detailed tattoos, including one around her wrist that reads “Vicious Van Gogo,” her Roller Derby nickname! When Clark’s not playing with the Gotham Girls Roller Derby, she works as a full-time nanny.

Shimeah Davis

Davis, who has worked at the New York Times as a designer for nearly two years, wore a professional yet creative ensemble, including a beautifully made vintage leather handbag.

Diane Coffee

Shaun Fleming, aka Diane Coffee, told Yahoo Style his performance at 4Knots was a “nautical adventure.” A favorite among the crowd, Fleming, who is based in Based in Bloomington, Ind., will be touring nonstop through November. “It’s been really crazy,” he exclaimed. “People think I get to travel the world and see all these amazing places, but really, I’ve only seen every venue and eaten every green room platter.”

Fusing the names Diana Ross and Nathan Pelkey’s song “Mr. Coffee,” Fleming conceived his band’s name. With always a touch of flair, Fleming wears eye makeup during his performances and usually buys all thrift: “Bloomington, Indiana, man... This whole outfit was probably one dollar,” he said.

Listen to Diane Coffee here.

Kat Danizger, Hannah Hughes, Eva Korpi, Olivia Lee

This girl gang decided to experiment with outrageous hairdos, including some bright pink wigs. “I just bought mine online the other day,” Danziger said, and her friends decidedly followed suit.

Hannah Smythe and Kate Pakvic

Smythe, who works in fashion primarily (and also at the very delicious Hampton Chutney restaurant in Manhattan’s SoHo neighborhood), wears all vintage, including some horsehair clogs. Pakvic, who came to the festival because she works in music PR, wore a flowing, backless romper, “but, I can’t remember where it’s from,” she admitted.

José Díaz

As a recent New Yorker hailing from Seattle, Díaz works as a musical engineer, recording bands and editing their music. We were especially attracted to his socks, which read: “YOUR MOM.” “I got them from my ex-girlfriend,” he mentioned. Everything else? “Hand-me-down or vintage.”

Boulevards

Boulevards considers his music to be “party or sex funk,” he said of his performance at 4Knots (in other words, contemporary funk or dance music). Boulevards’s set became quite lively at one point in particular when the artist stepped offstage and joined the audience in a group dance party.

His outfit: “A summer staple,” he said of his all-white ensemble with hand-me-down accessories, including a Marc Jacobs bracelet from an ex-girlfriend and rings from his parents. “And always sterling silver,” he added, “because it reminds me of my mom.”

Listen to his music here.

Jake DeNicola

DeNicola, a freelance cinematographer born and raised in New York, opted for a casual look in a vintage jersey, chinos, and sneakers. His jersey, he noted, signifies the name of an old, family-owned restaurant that was once located on the very street where DeNicola was photographed. Coincidence? We think not.

Meredith Suzuki

Suzuki works in New York as an accessories designer, creating a range of wearable fashions. Drawn to the festival to see Guided by Voices (the headlining band), she wore a vintage Rolling Stones jacket and vintage jewelry. She told us about her collection of vintage band tees, mentioning that sadly “they’re becoming too expensive to collect now!” We advise that she hold onto that jacket; it may become a hot seller.

Shane Arbogast and Friederike Paetzold

Designers Arbogast and Paetzold wore complimentary outfits (note: shoes). The duo had a uniquely superb eyewear game, with Arbogast in Trainspotting-inspired, yellow-tinted glasses while Paetzold gave us Jackie O vibes. Couple goals.

Mai Timono

Timono, a graphic designer for a Japanese publisher, wore a Zara denim dress with vintage accessories.

Aoife Coyne

Coyne, a student at Brooklyn College studying environmental law, stole the show with her T.U.K. platform Mary Jane shoes. She paired them with a camouflage skirt and off-the-shoulder top.

Bayonne

Bayonne, an American musician based in Austin, Texas, is a contemporary folk performer. With technology — “an RC-50″ — he loops beats with acoustic music.

He took to 4Knots’s stage with chill vibes, telling us that he’d taken a three-week hiatus from playing; “I had to dust the cobwebs off!” he said.

Listen to Bayonne here.

Beverly

We also ran into Drew Citron and Scott Rosenthal of the band Beverly. Both band members wore vibrant, vintage shirts. “Her T-shirt is from the band Guerilla Toss!” Rosenthal pointed out.

#fashion #style #music #4knots #slideshow #street style

On the Runway: The Most Outrageous Looks From Spring/Summer 2017 Menswear

Men’s spring/summer 2017 shows officially wrapped in Paris yesterday where designers Olivier Rousteing for Balmain and Thom Browne finished the week with beach-themed collections. At Balmain, beach-bum models navigated the catwalk in six shades of distressed denim, while at Browne’s show, the designer included laser cutouts of sharks on his garments.

While not all designers kept to this motif, many played with proportion — often in the form of ill-fitting garments like cropped tops or man dresses.

From London, Milan, and Paris, we bring you the most outrageous looks from this month-long fashion extravaganza. Enjoy!

Acne Studios

The Swedish brand showed a number of trench coats that unzipped into giant caftans. (Photo: IMAXTREE)

Astrid Anderson

In London, Astrid Anderson showed sleepwear on the runway (note this model’s lace underwear). (Photo: Getty Images)

Balenciaga

Balenciaga entered the Matrix. (Photo: Getty Images)

Balmain

Who knew that you could incorporate six shades of denim in a single look? (Photo: IMAXTREE)

Comme des Garçons Homme Plus

Where to begin? From models’ wigs to the PVC dress (worn over boxer shorts), CDG borrowed from the girls. (Photo: IMAXTREE)

Christopher Kane

Christopher Kane’s clothes may look “normal” from the front, but there’s craziness on the back. (Photo: Christopher Kane)

Christopher Raeburn

The more pockets, the merrier? (Photo: IMAXTREE)

Christopher Shannon

Oops — wardrobe malfunction. Wait, no — it’s only fashion. (Photo: Getty Images)

Craig Green

We’d hope that this outfit comes with an instruction manual. (Photo: Getty Images)

Damir Doma

DIY styling tip: Simply safety-pin a piece of fabric to your favorite T-shirt, and voilà: — you have yourself an off-the-runway look. (Photo: IMAXTREE)

Dolce & Gabbana

Dolce & Gabbana tried to make PJs as evening wear a thing. Thoughts? (Photo: Getty Images)

DSquared2

This outfit could have almost been normal, despite the sky-high platform boots (emblazoned with sequins.) (Photo: Getty Images)

Faith Connexion

Some designers made a political statement in their spring/summer 2017 collections. Take Faith Connexion’s Brexit nod, for example. The brand turned the British flag into a crop top, naturally. (Photo: Faith Connexion)

Gosha Rubchinskiy

You may need to dig for your grade-school running uniform, because it’s back in fashion. (Photo: Getty Images)

Gucci

Gucci’s multicultural collection included men’s tights, because why not? (Photo: Getty Images)

J.W. Anderson

You can mop the floor with J.W. Anderson’s oversized sleeves. (Photo: Getty Images)

KTZ

This is a perfect summer look for avoiding contact with the sun. (Photo: Getty Images)

Margiela

This half-suited look is perfect for day to night. (Photo: Getty Images)

Miharayasuhiro

If you can’t decide what to wear, try wearing two outfits at the same time. (Photo: IMAXTREE)

Moschino

More neon colors, please! (Photo: Getty Images)

Nasir Mazhar

Let’s take a moment to reflect on these pants. ... (Photo: Getty Images)

Philipp Plein

Basketball shorts over jeans may be Lebron James’s new look. (Photo: Getty Images)

Prada

This outfit actually turns into a makeshift camping tent. (Photo: Getty Images)

Raf Simons

Raf Simons showed minidresses over pants in his collection, which incorporated photographs by Robert Mapplethorpe. (Photo: Getty Images)

Rick Owens

Leave it to Rick Owens to turn a tuxedo into a sculptural concept look. (Photo: Getty Images)

Sibling

Laundromat shrink your clothes? Keep them; they’re in. (Photo: Getty Images)

Thom Browne

Thom Browne, apparently inspired by Birdman, showed a series of feathered looks with bird masks. (Photo: Getty Images)

Vivienne Westwood

Vivienne Westwood looked to any one of Beyoncé’s music videos for inspiration. (Photo: Getty Images)

Wales Bonner

Do you dare to wear this seashell-and-pearl headband? (Also, we’re into this model’s pilgrim shoes). (Photo: Getty Images)

Walter Van Beirendonck

No words for this trippy tank top. (Photo: IMAXTREE)

#men #men's fashion week #fashion #slideshow

Balenciaga Mixes Old and New at First Men’s Fashion Show

Guests wait anxiously for the Balenciaga spring/summer 2017 show to begin. (Photo: First View)

On Wednesday morning in Paris, a stylish group of fashion folk gathered on the rooftop terrace of a local Catholic school to see Balenciaga’s first men’s fashion show. The brand has included menswear in its repertoire before, but never on the runway and never as complex as its current, spring/summer 2017 collection. And the critics seem to be loving it.

Under the recent creative direction of Georgian fashion designer Demna Gvasalia, the nearly 100-year-old house of Balenciaga has completely transformed — its menswear has taken on the exaggerated style and shape of a 1980s David Byrne via “Stop Making Sense.”

A spitting image of David Byrne’s oversize suit. (Photo: First View)

But despite the clothes seeming a bit retro, Gvasalia told Vogue.com that the collection actually evolved from one garment, an unfinished coat made by the brand’s founding father, Cristóbal Balenciaga.

As this silhouette developed throughout the show — typically paired with cropped trousers and platform boots — Gvasalia interjected his own conceptual streetwear aesthetics (ones we’ve seen from his work at Vetements), like baggy work pants, bomber jackets, and chains dangling from belt loops.

A rather flamboyant purple ensemble shown with platform boots. (Photo: First View)

Though some looks on the Balenciaga runway may appear a little out there, Gvasalia’s first menswear effort for the label demonstrated a perfect balance of old and new.

#men #menswear #balenciaga #pfw #fashion week #vetements

The Most Stylish Players in the 2016 NBA Finals

This evening is the seventh and final game of the NBA Finals, where the Golden State Warriors and Cleveland Cavaliers will face off once again for the championship (they played each other last year, and Golden State won).

Tonight in Oakland, Calif., star athletes Stephen Curry and LeBron “The King” James will lead Golden State and Cleveland, respectively, through a series expected to be rife with blood, sweat and tears.

Although their MVPs are stylish, both teams possess impressively stylish rosters overall — check out the Cavs’ sneaker shot on Instagram. Whether you prefer Cavs player Iman Shumpert, with his ever-changing hairdo (he recently ditched his trademark flattop for a dreaded man bun), or Draymond Green, with his all-green ensembles, we’ve selected the most stylish players set to take the court tonight.

Game 7 of the NBA Finals airs Sunday, June 19, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

Stephen Curry

MVP Stephen Curry boasts an impressive game — both on the court and in fashion. You would be surprised, however, to learn that the baller prefers fast-fashion brands, such as Express (where he was a brand ambassador), to those high-end designer clothes. See, even multimillionaires can shop modestly. Photo: Getty Images / Instagram.com

LeBron James

“King” James is widely considered the best active player in the world — and he’s also the highest paid. Like in his playing, James’ style is flashy: He always has about $1 million on his wrists in the form of Hermes leather bracelets, Cartier jewelry and a big, fat gold watch with diamonds. He’s also one of few men who can pull off wearing a fedora. Props, King. Photo: Getty Images / Instagram.com

Andre Iguodala

Warriors’ player Andre Iguodala has one of the most fashion-forward Instagram accounts, where he’s often seen with his son (also named Andre) in complementary outfits. The duo are so quintessentially “GQ” that it’ll blow your mind. Photo: Getty Images / Instagram.com

Kevin Love

Cavaliers’ No. 0 player, Kevin Love, is notably one of the sexiest men in the NBA, once posing nude on the cover of ESPN’s Body Issue in 2015. He looked good. Love comes from a family of athletes — his father is a former L.A. Laker — and has an all-American look. Check out his patriotic off-court style and enviable mustache. Photo: Getty Images / Instagram.com

Draymond Green

Just like his last name, Warriors’ power forward player loves the color green. Like, really, really. Having attended Michigan State University, the green Spartan — aka “Money 23 Green” — still reps his school’s color. He has a green suede vest, bright-green sneakers and even a winter coat with a prominent, green fur collar. That’s fashion dedication at it’s very finest. Photo: Getty Images / Instagram.com

Kyrie Irving

Cavs’ point guard Kyrie Irving has more shoes than you have — or anyone else on this planet has. He not only has his very own style Nike basketball shoe but also has just a million other brightly colored sneakers (which can be seen on his Instagram account). Perhaps his flashiest shoes are a pair of golden dunks. Those can’t be cheap... Photo: Getty Images / Instagram.com

Klay Thompson

Warriors’ player Klay Thompson has a reserved style. Though he’s often in Nike-decked athleisure, the dude can also pull off a three-piece suit unlike any other baller. Oh, he also has a really, really cute Bulldog named Rocco. Photo: Getty Images / Instagram.com

J.R. Smith

J.R. Smith (also a fellow bulldog owner) is among the top five most tattooed NBA players, apparently having “lost count” after 70 tattoos. However, each drawing has a deep, personal meaning to Smith — and some of his ink is pretty impressive. Just take a look at the mural on his back. Photo: Getty Images / Instagram.com

Andrew Bogut

The 7-foot-tall Andrew Bogut was born and raised in Australia before playing for the Warriors in 2012. Bogut often has the same swag off the court as he does on it — Nike T-shirts and shorts. So it is always a very pleasant surprise when the baller shows up at a press conference wearing a nicely tailored suit and dress shoes. Photo: Getty Images / Instagram.com

Iman Shumpert

With his signature flattop hairdo and a wardrobe filled with designer clothes, Iman Shumpert is one of the most expressive athletes in the NBA. Off the court, Shumpert’s style is far from casual — he often wears “concepty” clothes, experimenting with layers and vibrant colors. But perhaps his best look was during Halloween, when he dressed in pink latex as the character Lollipop from Ice Cube’s film Friday After Next. Check it out. Photo: Getty Images / Instagram.com

#men #sports #nba #basketball #stephcurry #LeBron James #slideshow #gswarriors #cavs #cavs vs warriors #fashion #style #sneakers #nike

How Gigi Hadid Went From Supermodel to Contemporary Art Star

Gigi Hadid for Visionaire Free Art. (Photo courtesy of Visionaire)

Supermodel Gigi Hadid is arguably the most famous 21-year-old in the world. With more than 17 million Instagram followers and a retired One Direction member boyfriend, and having starred in major advertisements for Tom Ford, Versace, and recently BMW, Hadid shows absolutely no sign of losing relevance in pop culture — nor is she limiting herself to only modeling.

Her most recent contribution is an artistic collaboration with contemporary art publisher Visionaire World, which is repurposing one of Hadid’s most-liked Instagram photos by printing special copies of the image and distributing prints around New York City — for free.

“We really wanted to do something that’s totally opposite of what we usually do,” Visionaire co-founder Cecilia Dean said, admitting that often the company’s projects are “limited, hard to find, and expensive.” As a small company, Visionaire teamed up with Belgian beer brewer Stella Artois, which financed the project by printing thousands of artful, collectable posters — to be distributed in Miami and Los Angeles and available starting Thursday in NYC — from dozens of notable artists.

John Baldessari for Visionaire Free Art. (Photo courtesy of Visionaire)

“Some of the artists we’ve chosen to collaborate with sell their works for hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars,” Dean said about her roster, including John Baldessari (who sold a painting in 2014 for $2.5 million). “But when we approached them, they were so excited to reach a broader audience and to do it for free.”

Though Visionaire has never worked with Hadid in the past, Dean is nonetheless inspired by the supermodel as an artistic figure. “When we asked Gigi Hadid to participate at first, we’d been talking to photographers — all of them men — to shoot a really sexy image,” Dean said. “However, it just wasn’t working, so we decided to go straight to the woman and put her in charge of the image and how she wanted to represent herself. Gigi wanted to use her most-liked Instagram picture, which we found to be modern and relevant in a digital age.” (The Instagram picture has recently been numerically trumped by 1.4 million likes — a photo of Hadid with a cat and her boyfriend, Zayn Malik.)

Hadid’s Instagram turned art will be distributed around the same time Frieze New York, the city’s leading art fair, takes place; last year celebrity artist Richard Prince sold his Instagram art there for $100,000. Thankfully this year, we can score some Insta-art for free.

Join Visionaire’s Free Art distribution at these NYC locations this week:

Thursday, May 5, through Sunday, May 8: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. at Times Square Arts on Broadway plaza between 43rd and 44th streets

Thursday, May 5, 4 p.m.-8 p.m. at NADA New York, Basketball City at 299 South Street on the East River

Friday, May 6, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. at Union Square West between 15th and 16th streets

Saturday, May 7, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. in the Meatpacking District, 14th Street between Washington Street and Tenth Avenue

Sunday, May 8, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. in SoHo, Lafayette Street between Spring and Broome streets

*Artists include Daniel Arsham, John Baldessari, Anton Corbijn, Wim Delvoye, Milton Glaser, Gigi Hadid, Glenn Ligon, Christian Marclay, Shirin Neshat, Yoko Ono, Ugo Rodinone, and Mario Sorrenti.

#art #gigi hadid #style

15 Stylish Jazz Musicians to Celebrate International Jazz Day

It’s International Jazz Day! From the famous New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival to a concert series held in Namibia, Africa, this weekend, the whole world is celebrating decades of jazz history and the iconic performers who helped shape it.

Jazz has its roots in African-American communities in New Orleans, where African and European musical traditions merged to create a wholly American art form. In the 20th century, particularly during the 1940s bebop movement, jazz as we now know it began to take shape, and was defined by its syncopated sound, as well as its intimate vocal performances. The men and women taking the stage dressed to the nines, with men in black tie and women in shimmering ball gowns.

On a weekend night, there was no cooler form of entertainment than a live jazz performance — and iconic performers like Sarah Vaughan, Chet Baker, and Miles Davis delighted audiences with their dazzling shows.

In honor of International Jazz Day, we’ve featured 15 jazz greats whose music and personal styles have influenced fashion and culture today.

Billie Holiday

One of the most iconic singers of all time, Billie Holiday was known for singing songs of sorrow in her raspy voice. Holiday was highly influential, with signature songs — such as “Stormy Blues” and “Lady Sings the Blues” that were later covered by Ella Fitzgerald and Diana Ross. When performing, especially in the 1930s, Holiday usually wore beautifully patterned dresses, pearls — and of course, her signature floral headpieces. (Photo: Alamy)

Anita O’Day

Anita O’Day (aka “The Jezebel of Jazz”) was recognized for launching her career as “the girl singer” for big-band appearances in the late 1940s. O’Day’s quick-beat vocal patterns and sense of rhythm catapulted her to the forefront of bebop singing. Click here to watch O’Day performing at the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival, where she channels Holly Golightly (albeit three years before Breakfast at Tiffany’s was released). (Photo: Getty Images)

Art Blakey

The maestro jazz drummer Art Blakey was known for his aggressive swing style. His hands could move at the speed of light, and he was among one of the most expressive players in the history of jazz drumming. Though Blakey typically performed in a suit, here he’s photographed during a rehearsal casually dressed in overalls and sneakers, wearing his other signature: a big, contagious smile. (Photo: Getty Images)

Bill Evans

Pianist Bill Evans led his own ensemble, The Bill Evans Trio, in the late 1950s after having performed with the Miles Davis band. His style uniquely incorporated block chords — though somehow with the lightest touch — making for to an impressionistic performance. While playing, the guy was super cool; he was almost always smoking a cigarette as both hands perpetually moved across the keyboard. (Note: Smoking kills!) (Photo: Getty Images)

Chet Baker

Chet Baker was not only a skilled trumpeter; he also had the smoothest, most seductive singing voice of his time. During the ’40s, when Baker was just beginning his career, his handsome, trendy look — with pomaded hair and chiseled features — helped his fame flourish into superstardom. He’s among fashion’s all-time favorite men, and was once photographed and filmed by legendary photographer Bruce Weber. (Photo: Alamy)

Dinah Washington

Dinah Washington was primarily a vocalist during her career, but also played jazz piano, often to accompany her lyrics. She’s known as “Queen of the Blues,” once telling her audience during a 1959 show in Britain; “I’m happy to be here, but just remember — there’s one heaven, one earth, and one queen: Elizabeth is an imposter!” Washington’s vocal power and energy made her one of the most-loved musicians of her time, and her opulent style made for exciting performances. (Photo: Getty Images)

Dizzy Gillespie

Trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie is considered an architect of modern jazz, along with the late Charlie Parker. Gillespie often played with friends in a quintet ensemble, where he was the show-stopper. He also had an incredible sense of humor, even in his playing — he took improvisational risks, as seen here in his 1966 performance on “Jazz 625.” He wore stylish, thick-framed glasses and here, an ornate kufi in tribute to his African heritage. (Photo: Getty Images)

Ella Fitzgerald

One of the most famous jazz singers in history, Ella Fitzgerald made a name for herself with her incredible vocal range and collaborations with musicians like Louis Armstrong (on an entire duet album in 1956.) Fitzgerald regularly made her performances feel extra special and formal by wearing costume jewelry and full-length gowns. (Photo: Getty Images)

Louis Armstrong

While he’s probably best known for having one of the most distinctive voice in music, Louis Armstrong was also one of the best trumpeters of all time. He was expressionistic and skilled beyond belief, influencing jazz music to move from group improvisation to solo performances. Armstrong was active for nearly 60 years, and is considered to be one of the first black musicians whose popularity transcended the racial divisions that gripped the earlier half of the 20th century. He also had an incredibly dapper style, typically sporting a bow tie and pocket square when he performed. (Photo: Getty Images)

Nina Simone

Beginning her career as a classically trained pianist who had studied at The Juilliard School, Nina Simone fell into singing jazz while working at a nightclub in Atlantic City. Despite her talent, Simone suffered through many hardships throughout her life, having been in a reportedly abusive relationship and struggling with bipolar disorder. She became an outspoken political activist during the Civil Rights Movement, and often wore bright, colorful dresses and head wraps, looking undeniably chic at all times. (Photo: Getty Images)

Paul Desmond

Alto saxophonist Paul Desmond was one of the most popular musicians out of the West Coast’s “cool jazz” scene, a style that arose after World War II. His music is characterized by relaxed tempos and a lighter style than the famous bebop performers. Desmond was drafted into the U.S. Army band out of high school, where he mastered his instrument in the large ensemble. With his sharp, dapper looks, Desmond was known to be a hit with the ladies — and it’s not hard to see why. (Photo: Getty Images)

Sarah Vaughan

Jazz singer Sarah Vaughan (aka “Sassy” or “The Divine One”) has been described as having one of “the most wondrous voices of the 20th century” by music critic Scott Yanow — and we won’t argue. In a now-iconic live recording made in Europe in 1964, Vaughan took the stage nervously “with a cold,” but the moment she began singing the classic tune “Misty,” the audience was transcended into musical bliss. She was a class act — always immaculately made up and wearing in stylish, form-fitting dresses. (Photo: Getty Images)

Stan Getz

Tenor sax player Stan Getz popularized bossa nova jazz with his worldwide hit “The Girl from Ipanema.” Getz’s musical style was smooth and heavily influenced by Brazilian music, giving his work its characteristically sexy sound. Usually dressed formally, in his later years Getz wore some pretty cool printed shirts that also seemed to be influenced by his love for South American culture. (Photo: Getty Images)

Thelonious Monk

Jazz pianist Thelonious Monk was one of the most stylish players of his time. Active from the 1940s through the 1970s, Monk played music that boasted a unique improvisational, experimental style. He was the second-most-recorded jazz composer, after arguably the best jazz pianist of all time, Duke Ellington. In fashion as in music, Monk took more risks than Ellington. He almost always wore sunglasses while performing, and had an impressive hat collection, including the ones illustrated here. (Photo: Getty Images)

Miles Davis

Miles Davis, of course, is among the greatest players in jazz history, and influenced a number of movements, including bebop and cool jazz. His album Kind of Blue went platinum four times over, and is regarded as one of the most essential, influential jazz albums to date. During his later years, Davis experimented with some outrageous fashions, such as all-suede ensembles, bug-eyed sunglasses, and the statement fringe coat — photographed above in 1968. (Photo: Getty Images)

#fashion #style #jazz #slideshow #miles davis #chet baker #nina simone

Christian Siriano Debuts First Bridal Collection

Fashion designer Cristian Siriano showed his first bridal collection at Kleinfeld Bridal in N.Y.C. on Monday, April 18. (Photo: Sara Kerens)

I don’t know much about bridal fashions, so I was overcome to find myself backstage at Christian Siriano’s spring 2017 bridal collection, surrounded by tiers of lace, crystal-like beads, and lots (and lots) of tulle.

This collection was Siriano’s first full capsule collection for the legendary Kleinfeld Bridal boutique in N.Y.C. (he designed a much smaller collection the season before). The shop takes up nearly an entire city block, and downstairs, 50 full-time seamstresses work in an atelier studio, constructing one-of-a-kind gowns for brides-to-be. “It’s really insane,” Siriano says of the shop and his show space. “People don’t really understand how big of deal this place truly is. You walk in here, see the space, and you’re like, ‘Wow.’”

A big venue, of course, calls for a big dress: “Our dresses will range from $3,000 to $19,000,” Siriano says, reassuring me that everything is made by hand.

But what does a $19,000 dress look like?

Look 27; the $19,000 ombré ball gown

“Do you want to see the dress?” Siriano asks excitedly, leading me into a back room where one fuchsia ombré, thousand-tiered tulle dress hung on a rack. “I love a colorful bridal gown. You know, this is a bride’s one fantasy moment; it’s nice to take a risk!” Siriano exclaims. (He doesn’t suggest wearing a printed gown, because patterns quickly feel dated).

In addition, Siriano’s variety of gowns — some very short, most of them long — and even one pantsuit, will come in a range of sizes. “We will be doing petite and plus-sizes,” he says. “There isn’t any one particular silhouette I recommend per body type. Every woman is different, and it just depends on how she feels.”

With the completion of his first bridal collection, the 30-year-old designer can finally focus on his own wedding this summer to singer-songwriter Brad Walsh. “We’ve planned literally nothing,” he says. “When this is over, I can finally focus on my own plans.”

Siriano’s new collection will be available next spring at the Kleinfeld Bridal boutique, and will offer just about everything for the modern bride-to-be.

#weddings #style #fashion #bridal fashion week

It’s Tax Day! 9 Stylish Celebrities Who Didn’t Pay Up

It’s Tax Day (procrastinators, you have until the end of the day today to pay).

But of course, many people ignore their bill from Uncle Sam, including the occasional multimillionaire celebrity who’s usually decked out in designer clothes and $20,000 handbags (ahem, Martha). Roni “Tax Lady” Deutch, an expert in celebrity tax troubles, told Money.com that the IRS loves to make examples of celebrities by “putting their heads on the proverbial pike as a warning to the rest of us: Pay your taxes!” Noted.

Above, Yahoo Style’s compiled the most famous — and most opulently stylish — tax evaders in history.

In one of the biggest celebrity tax scandals in history, actor Wesley Snipes cheated the IRS out of $7 million worth of taxes in 2008. His crime landed Snipes a hefty bill and a three-year sentence in federal prison. He was released in April 2013. (Photo: Getty Images)

In 1978, Nina Simone had a warrant issued for her arrest for unpaid taxes (she was refusing to pay to protest of the Vietnam War). Consequently, the jazz singer lost her house to the IRS. (Photo: Getty Images)

Martha Stewart may seem to have her shit together, but when the home-and-garden guru didn’t pay taxes on her East Hampton mansion, Stewart owed the government $220,000. (Photo: Getty Images)

Fugees singer (and soloist) Lauryn Hill pleaded guilty to tax evasion charges in 2013. The Grammy-winning artist was sentenced to three months in federal prison for failing to pay around $1 million in taxes. (Photo: Getty Images)

After seizing most of his assets in 1990, the federal government forced singer Willie Nelson to pay over $16 million in back taxes due to his involvement with a bogus tax shelter. (Photo: Getty Images)

In 2009, movie star Nicolas Cage blamed his manager for nearly $6 million in unpaid taxes to the IRS. Cage ended up finally paying the IRS — and firing his manager. (Photo: Getty Images)

“Cash rules everything around me,” said Method Man. The singer pleaded guilty to tax evasion in 2009, finally paying his $106,000 bill while serving some time in federal prison. (Photo: Getty Images)

The not so “Always on Time” singer Ja Rule was sentenced to 28 months in prison and ordered to pay $1.1 million in back taxes after failing to pay taxes on more than $3 million he earned in a two-year period. (Photo: Getty Images)

Famed photographer Annie Leibovitz owed $2.1 million in unpaid taxes in a three-year period and was forced to sell the copyright to every photograph she’s ever taken to get loans she needed to pay her debt. (Photo: Getty Images)

#style #taxes #tax day #celebrity #money #fashion #slideshow #ja rule

As Kobe Bryant Retires, a Look Back at His Stylish Career

Kobe Bryant leaves the basketball court today for good, after one last game (the L.A. Lakers play the Utah Jazz at 10:30 p.m. ET). In his 20-year career, he has accumulated 33,464 points — that’s more than Michael Jordan or Shaq — and led his team to win five NBA Championships.

And off the court, he has signed major endorsement deals with Adidas, Coca-Cola, and Nintendo (the company created a video game for him in 1998, Kobe Bryant’s NBA Courtside). He also had a secret rap career and, perhaps most notably to non-basketball fans, he was accused of sexual assault in 2003 (the charges were dropped after the two sides reached a private settlement).

Whether or not you’re a fan, the star stands out as an undeniably stylish dude. To honor his amazing career and say goodbye, we take a look back at our favorite of his looks.

Kobe takes one of his first photos as a Los Angeles Laker, after being traded from the Charlotte Hornets. We appreciate his retro-print tie and ball cap. (Photo: Getty Images)

Even off the court, Kobe is color-coordinated in a black-and-white tracksuit. (Photo: Getty Images)

Kobe casually eats an in-flight meal with the NBA Championship trophy beside him. Of course, plenty of leg room provided for his size-14 Adidas. (Photo: Getty Images)

Kobe sits chill AF in a bucket hat, Japanese-print T-shirt, and track pants. (Photo: Getty Images)

At the first-ever Teen Choice Awards, Kobe walked the red carpet — casually — in a white tank, short-sleeve dress shirt, and cargo pants. Oh, and super-nerdy glasses too. (Photo: Getty Images)

Kobe followed up one year later at the Teen Choice Awards, with a more stylish “red carpet” take — a full denim look with yellow accents. No glasses this time. (Photo: Getty Images)

Kobe channels his inner-Matrix in a leather trench coat and pants in 2000. (Probably one of our favorite looks.) (Photo: Getty Images)

Deuces, dude. Kobe strikes a pose with the 2001 NBA Championship trophy in a stylish victory jacket. (Photo: Getty Images)

Kobe smokes a celebratory cigar after winning Game 4 of the 2002 NBA Finals, in a jersey other than his own — Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls No. 23 jersey. Respect. (Photo: Getty Images)

At his third day of jury selection in Kobe’s trial on sexual assault charges in 2004, he stands outside the courthouse — clean-cut, shaven, and besuited. (Photo: Getty Images)

Michael Jordan and Kobe pose together. Kobe — you look great. Michael, dude — those jeans ... (Photo: Getty Images)

Kobe knows how to rock a suit of any color — especially this dark blue one with blacked-out accessories. (Photo: Getty Images)

Kobe and his wife, Vanessa, pose for the cameras, with Kobe wearing a cool leather motorcycle jacket and sunglasses. (Photo: Getty Images)

For the Los Angeles Times, Kobe starred in an avant-garde fashion shoot. The final result looked like a white-out, postapocalyptic nightmare. Sorry, Kobe — not your best look. (Photo: Los Angeles Times)

The baller redeemed himself by posing for GQ wearing a neon athleisure ensemble, in designer sweats. (Photo: GQ)

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