78/87 London Youth

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Every time I read something about the birth of punk I find myself fascinated with the sartorial side of the movement, so essential, given its roots in Viviane Westwood's and Malcolm McLaren's butique. Similarly, the numerous alternative fashion styles of the 80s perfectly resonate with my aesthetics.

 I often analyse the style of the leading figures of such movements, predominantly musicians, but the "common" representatives are equally inspiring. They show how the cultures operated in "real life", not necessarily connected to stage presence and band's image. It is remarkable that they were not any less radical. It perfectly shows in Derek Ridger's new book, "London Youth 78/87".

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"London Youth 78/87" seems to perfectly grasp the essence of the atmosphere of early years of punk and subsequent decade full of vivid subcultures. As indicated in the title, it focuses on the life in England's capital. 

The book's author, Derek Ridgers, is one of the most accomplished and versatile photographers. Whether taking street style portraits or working with legendary musicians his photos always have the rough, honest quality. It is also remarkably how he manages to create fragile, tense, yet intimate bond with the protagonists of his photos.  

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"London Youth" is available on Amazon. 

Icon - David Sylvian

David Sylvian was the lead singer of Japan, one the most interesting new-wave bands. Wandering between glam rock and New Romantic movement they were so innovative and original that it was impossible to pin them down. Having reached commercial peak in early 80s, the band dissolved and Sylvian pursued solo career, similarly full of unexpected turns and surprising collaborations. 

David Sylvian's is extremely intriguing and his image is definitely one of the many things which make him so fascinating. And it's also difficult to pin down, not only because Sylvian's look evolved throughout his career, but also because it never obviously adhered to one particular style.

 Sylvian's style embodies 80s fashion, but lots of his outfits would look hip also nowadays. He fluctuated between librarian modesty and baroque lavishness. He was androgynous but in subtle, refined way. He looked unearthly but at the same time naturally and effortlessly.

  

Japan - Visions of China

David Sylvian once mentioned that his style, extravagant as it may be, was not a disguise, it expressed who he really was. This sincerity and nonconformity make him a truly remarkable figure. 

David Sylvian is an icon because he always did what he wanted to with his music, never compromised and despite the popularity he never lost his mystique. 

But his is also a great source of fashion inspiration, especially when it comes to blazers, shirts and tuxedos.

Coachella 2014 - Style Inspiration

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Coachella has always been one of my dream festivals. It combines lots of things I am enthusiastic about, specifically sun, palms, heat and, obviously, great deals of performances which are classified with the highest priority on my personal concert wish list.

It is also one of the most fashion-related festivals - and while it is not necessarily a bad thing - I am a fan of experimenting with my style at the festivals a little more than usual myself - it can be problematic. 

I suppose some people are just too desperate to show their inner hippie and it most cases just miss the point of what a music festival should be about. Go and see Tyler, The Creator's twitter for reference as it is not my intetion to elaborate on this subject (or the subject of wayy too common mindless cultural appropriation).

Despite all the irritating things about Coachella and its style-related aspect it remains a great source of inspiration.

I decided to focus on artists' outfits and I have chosen the most interesting (at least in my opinion) ones of the first weekend:

Black on Black

Because my resolution for spring is to wear more black. 

The famous Yohji Yamamoto's quote sums up what black clothes are all about.

You can style black in many ways and never look wrong, it looks sharp and stylish and a little intimidating - in a good way. It is my go-to colour when I know I'll be meeting uber fashionable people, or when I want to look professional.

Most people use all-black look to compose elegant and minimal outfits, it's the easiest way and it always looks just right. However, my favourite way to wear black involves playing with textures, layers, and original cuts. And it has to be slightly gothic and dramatic.

Since recently I really feel like trying to wear black this way. Here is a couple of photos for reference:

My Secret World - The Story of Sarah Records

Sarah Records is definitely one of my favourite independent record labels, so when some time ago I found out about the first trailer for My Secret World -The Sarah Records Doc I got really excited.

The documentary looks great, and I'm really grateful for all the effort the director Lucy Dawkins put in the production. It will feature interviews with the founders, members of bands (The Field Mice, Heavenly, Another Sunny Day, The Orchids, and many more), but also music critics and musicians inspired by the legendary label - like Jacob Grahams of The Drums.

Apparently the Sarah Records Film won't be the only treat for the fans. Recently it was announced that the first official book about the label is scheduled to be released in mid 2015. "Popkiss: The Life and Afterlife of Sarah Records" is written by Michael White and it already has its official artwork.

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I absolutely adore sound, values and aesthetics of Sarah Records' bands, I'm not an expert yet, but I just can't wait to have more insight in the label's story.

This quick post is a small tribute to this great label. 

It's time to buy the cherry logo t-shirt.

Icon - Justine Frischmann

Justine Frischmann is everything - smart, edgy and rebellious, but also very enchanting, always with perfect haircut and at least a couple of britpop boys going crazy for her.

One of the Suede founding members, having parted with the band and Brett Anderson, she enjoyed massive success with her new group - Elastica. With sharp, disorted guitars, cocky lyrics and captivating stage presence Elastica was the second most played britpop band in US - after Oasis.

Justine's killer, nonchalant style is definitely worth revisiting. Also, after the My Mad Fat Diary inspiration post I really feel focusing more of the 90s and it's the perfect occasion to see their slightly different side. 

Prepare for lots of black.

Inspiration - My Mad Fat Diary

Since the second season of My Mad Fat Diary finishes tomorrow, and I got way more emotionally involved in this show than I planned to, I decided to make a quick post about the impeccable 90s style, relaying on this great TV series. 

Nowadays, it's safe to say that we're experiencing some kind of 90s revival. Not only in fashion, just think about bands like Jagwar Ma or Peace which channel the famous baggy madchester sound in their music. Not to mention reforming "britpop" bands.
Notice how the outfits don't really look dated, in fact you could probably easily buy half of them in Topshop. Fashion and music go in circles and I don't mind it at all.
Anyway, My Mad Fat Diary perfectly captures the moment of nostalgia for the 90s and revives their crazy, cool, and overall incredible style. One of my main inspirations for this post was, besides the show itself, this great tumblr: http://mmfdfashion.tumblr.com/

Let's go back to the July '96.