Tommy Lei, Menswear Blogger

On a recent trip to Los Angeles I headed over to Melrose to catch-up with Tommy Lei, one of the city's leading bloggers.

My Belonging showcases Tommy's style - a blend California ease meets East Coast cool. His choices are consistently thoughtful, with a slight androgynous edge. While shooting we chatted about living in Los Angeles, blogging, coffee shops and his fascination with very expensive shoes.

"My Belonging initially began as a diary for me to document and instill meaning into my material possessions. I am all about worthwhile material investments - the blog was a visual tribute of sorts to my addiction. Since then it’s morphed into so much more! I love experiencing and wearing brands - both established and emerging. The blog has also opened up so many doors in terms of brand collaborations and befriending likeminded individuals. 

I'm attracted to a mixture of high and low. It all comes down to the overall aesthetic and quality. In terms of high I love classic and rare pieces by Balenciaga, Givenchy, Comme des Garçons, Alexander Wang, Phillip Lim and Yohji Yamamoto. On the flip side Zara, ASOS, Topman and H&M are my go-to, especially for trendy designer replicas and exclusive collaborations. My Balenciaga cutout buckle boots are literally my favorite 'hooves'! I call them that because of the galloping sound they make [laughs]! Initially I had my doubts about the fit and comfort but I’ve been enamored by them for so long. During NYFW I caved after seeing them at a brunch with Simon Doonan and called Barney’s to see if they were still in stock. They were.

One of my favorite pastimes is to explore every nook and cranny of this beautiful, expansive city. I'm always hanging at coffee shops like Coffee Tomo, Balconi Coffee, Lamill, Demitasse and Intelligentsia. I also love getting meditative by going on hikes and absorbing the breathtaking views of Runyon Canyon, Will Rogers State Park and Solstice Canyon in Malibu. [Laughs] I definitely don't wear Balenciaga on my hikes." 

- Tommy Lei, wearing Acne, ASOS, Armani Exchange, Tom Ford, Zara, Ted Baker and Balenciaga, photographed by Alexander Atkins in Los Angeles.

Spike Jonze is a Fantastic Man

If you're sitting at your desk thinking about something to do, know this: Fantastic Man is fantastically fantastic. Seriously.
In short, read it. With that said you're probably going "Should I be into this? I'm already a GQ subscriber!". Well that's great and all, but this is better. Why? It just is.

For starters Fantastic Man is completely original, witty and showcases real style (which, let's be honest, is pretty hard to come by). Turning each page means being inspired. Take their ROTATION production (in collaboration with Dior Homme) for instance. Each week a new video showcasing a key look from the Kris Van Assche-designed collection for A/W 13 is released - but on dancers who are vogue-ing out. The Daily Recommendation on the Fantastic Man website is also worth bookmarking, simply because each item (from the benefits Chanel's Hair Mist to layering denim) is thoughtfully presented and perfectly curated. In short the whole thing is worth your time. And mine.

- Photos by Alexander Atkins. For bi-annual subscription information click here.

The Missoni Vibe

Does everybody remember watching That Seventies Show? Because I'd say the whole vibe is very Missoni circa now, no?

(We'll just negate bell-bottoms for good measure.) If you're searching to capture the essence of my favorite Italian brand I'd recommend a kaleidoscope - an incredibly unique kaleidoscope (which is to say one that induces a vortex of cashmere knitwear, abstract florals and zig-zags). You'll remember I'm partial to this vibe - and if you've ever spied Margherita Maccapani Missoni's instagram you'll discover (with moderate-to-severe degrees of envy) that she in-fact lives this vibe. As a result I'd say the only prints we should all ever consider wearing are Missoni. They consistently get 'it'. 

Take this shirt for instance. The neo-cubist print could easily lean on offensive but (and cleverly) the peachy terracotta tones are subdued and washed-out (yet not in the slightest meager looking - think perfectly-aged Mediterranean villa). Also the boxy and relaxed tailoring calls to be worn untucked. It's the ultimate go-to, adding a hint of color to the dreariest of winter days which, let's face it, are a-coming. Put simply it works. 

- Alexander Atkins, photographed by Catia Macedo in Los Angeles, wearing Missoni and Alexander Wang.

Day of the Dead

Just because you're partaking in a celebration of the dead does not mean your sense of style should die too. Au contraire!

In fact it became rapidly clear that the Dia de los Muertos celebration in San Francisco's Mission district is the perfect occasion for a tailored tux and skull mask (you know, that one you just happen to have laying around?). Not only did the whole experience smell incredible - incense, especially the church smelling kind, is basically the same as Cire Trudon's Spiritus Sancti candle - it also reminded me of a masquerade ball (think Stanley Kubrick's Eyes Wide Shut, only way less naked). I even managed to spot a varsity-inspired look which, as you know, is basically all I'm wearing these days. 

- Photos by Alexander Atkins

Halloween How To: Edward Scissorhands

It's the 11th hour and you're stuck. Worry not! Tim Burton exists for one simple reason; to inspire you every Halloween.
There are many things to thank Mr. Burton for (Beetlejuice, Mars Attacks!, and let's not forget the sheer awesomeness that is Sleepy Hollow), but Edward Scissorhands tops my list any day. Why? Vintage Johnny and Winona wrapped-up in an epic love story about a hairdresser (basically, right?) can't be topped. It's really that simple.  

Let's start from the top and work our way down. Know this: hair is everything. Either you spray yours black, or grab a wig and chop it to length (get into character, you're supposed to be good with your hands, right?). In terms of product we want to go thick, wild and promote extreme texture. Start by applying a dry shampoo to your roots - this will ensure volume from the scalp up. Alterna's Cleanse Extend Translucent option is ideal, partly because it smells like bamboo leaf which almost definitely means you'll end-up attracting a panda (which could be fun). Bumble and Bumble's Thickening Hairspray is your next step. Remember we're building volume here so apply generously. Finish the whole thing and achieve those clumpy strands with Jack Black's Body-Building Hair Gel. Finally seal the deal with your hairdryer. 

Don't be daunted by the makeup part. Keep it basic with Kryolan's Aqua Color in white. I'd recommend cleansing first, probably with Fresh's Soy Face Cleanser, followed by a healthy application of La Mer's The Concentrate (which will ensure easy application). Once you've painted your entire face white using a makeup sponge you'll want to use eye shadow for detailing. Urban Decay's Basics Palette has several neutral shades that will work perfectly under and around the eyes, but also as outlines for those lovely keloid scars.

In terms of the outfit, ideally you're veering towards something black and strappy. Anything Rick Owens would be exceptional (we're talking ideal situation here, FYI). But the real point is to have fun, duh! And if all else fails go as the Scarecrow from Batman - all you'll only need is a brown paper bag.

Stay spooky!

The Reflective Shade

In the wise words Karl Lagerfeld, "Sunglasses are like eyeshadow. They make everything look younger and prettier."
And who doesn't want to look younger and prettier? Like the Kaiser, I'm an advocate of a great pair of shades, mostly for their ability to pull everything together with absolute ease. On most days I'll have, at some point at least, worn one of my Ray-Ban Wayfarers (mainly because they evoke a timeless sense of style and just go with everything, which is a huge deal). But recently I've found myself glaring at different shapes and colors in an effort to explore a world beyond tortoiseshell and stark angles. 

It goes without saying that hyper reflective lenses are the complete polar opposite to regular green and brown tints, and perhaps surprisingly, are not unfamiliar territory (reflective shades were all I wore skiing). So, in a rare full circle moment, I can't help but be completely drawn-in. And besides all the aforementioned jargon, reflective lenses shield an obtrusive wandering eye (boys will be boys). Not to mention the sun's unforgiving glare (rays will be rays). 

- Alexander Atkins, wearing Forever 21's Letterman Sweater and a vintage reflective sunglasses, photographed by Jessica Craig in Laguna Beach, California. 

Men and Makeup: The Truth

It's October, but really it's honesty hour. And by that I mean it's time to breach the whole men and their makeup topic.
You might be going 'life is about the blemishes - deal with them'. Well, yes. There will be blemishes of varying shapes and sizes but the point is that no one needs (or wants) to see them, regardless of chromosomal makeup. Is it really that odd or self-indulgent to not at least try to look our best? The whole aesthetics theory exists for a reason. Men (and women) appear healthier, more successful and certainly more attractive with a clear complexion. And while I'm all for juicing and cleansing from the inside out, sometimes a quick fix is the solution. So with all that in mind, the idea of a man dabbing a little concealer on razor burn is not that offensive, right?

A quick Google search of 'men and makeup' reveals we're definitely thinking about and occasionally doing it, but perhaps not openly admitting to it... yet. And that's not surprising. Most men would avoid confessing to anything cosmetic. Conversely however, in-depth and targeted tutorials indicate that men and their makeup habits are quickly departing the realm of taboo. (Wikihow's "How to Apply Makeup as a Man" is super comprehensive in that it elaborates upon the importance of setting your concealer, while Charlotte Tilbury's "Subtle Undercover Makeup for Men" provides a step-by-step program and product guide on how to achieve a groomed and healthy look.)   

I'm quite familiar with a little concealer. I bought my first tube of Clinique's Anti-Blemish Solutions Clearing Concealer in Italy (when in Rome, I suppose). Since then I've kept it simple and subtle. I haven't, for instance, experimented with bronzer or guyliner but admire the likes of Bowie and Depp (who definitely have). The fact that Sephora now has an entire category on their website dedicated to men's makeup is hugely significant. The average male's grooming habits are rapidly evolving while the beauty industry waits. And it's ready.

Browse and shop a selection of concealers, below.
- Photo by Alexander Atkins

   

Vintage Knits: Louis Vuitton

When I go vintage shopping I have one simple rule. If the glove fits I'm buying it. Hesitating is a complete waste of time.
This trusty mantra was exactly what was going through my mind during an overdue and much needed visit to Wasteland in San Francisco. Perhaps now it's best to mention I'm a recent convert to the whole vintage thing. The idea, but really the smell were both very odd (eau de grandmother's-moth-ball is not exactly my favorite, anything Tom Ford is). But then you grow-up and get over it. You also discover the small miracles your local dry cleaners are capable of. 

So with sleeves rolled-up, nose firmly pinched and eyes sharp I began scanning the racks. Rocker tees, leather pants, plaid coats, hats - you probably know the drill. Then a glimmer of hope. A soft crewneck sweater in the most perfect shade of taupe. And then came the insane realization, 'Fuck - I just found a Louis Vuitton!?'. No previous vintage find (and there have been a few) was ever so exciting. Is that shallow? Don't answer that - I don't really care. The point is I found it, tried it, bought and now I'm here, wearing it. It's everything in that it's 1) Louis Vuitton (duh) and 2) not obnoxiously Louis Vuitton. I'm all about understated luxury and this, my friends, is the definition of. 

- Alexander Atkins, wearing a vintage Louis Vuitton sweater and a Forever 21 camouflage beanie, photographed by Irene de Jong in Los Gatos, California.

Aesop Mandarin Facial Hydrating Cream

Aesop is a repeat offender, and I mean that whole-heartedly, in the best possible way imaginable. So let's chat fall skin.

As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp your skin will be in dire need of moisture. Take note! Feed it. Also, a sound skincare routine is ever-evolving. It's seasonal. You wouldn't wear shorts in winter would you? Well, perhaps you would (especially if you're a New Zealander) - but that's not what my point. Back to your skin!

For summer you might recall I was all about Aesop's Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Hydrator. And for good cause. Its lightweight texture meant moisture was absorbed and instantly locked-in. (The whole thing was easy and to-the-point, just the way I like it.) But now, with all that dry air thrashing your face it's time to transition to something richer, more powerful and long-lasting. Enter Aesop's Mandarin Facial Hydrating Cream. The anti-oxidants and botanicals derived from mandarin, lemon and tangerine rinds deliver exceptional hydration and overall replenishment. Used following the Parsley Seed Facial Toner, skin is left nourished, supple and refreshed. The hazel base means absorption is prompt and moisture is long-lasting. The dominant citrus notes not only smell great, they ensure that fresh feeling (which we all undoubtedly love). Sounds good? It is. 

Browse and shop Aesop's product line here.

- Photos by Alexander Atkins

Starry Eyed: Forever 21

When Shakespeare said, "It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves" he actually meant to say, "wear stars".

Like, you know, on your shirt, collar and sweatshirt. Essentially it's about wearing your destiny, and as an avid Shakespeare reader how could I not heed The Bard's advice? Stars had a big moment back in 2008 (YSL, Chanel et al. got celestial). But that was then, this is now. And 'now' is all about a great crewneck. They're easy. They're classic. They also look great with anything, on anyone. So it's pretty clear the basic crewneck should be a staple in every wardrobe. What's more this Fall will be all about the crewneck sweatshirt. Only a print-heavy version. Let's call it 'the crewneck 2.0'.

Here's the real point; thank god for Forever 21. Accessible and on-trend, their star print crewneck and short-sleeved shirt mean serious intergalactic fun. Paired together they become a force to be reckoned with. It goes without saying they will both be a huge part of my Fall essentials. It's that simple. Beam me up Scotty.

- Alexander Atkins, wearing Forever 21's Slim Fit Star Shirt and Star Print Sweatshirt, photographed by Irene de Jong in Golden Gate Park, California.

The Essentials: Fall Layering

It's mid-September (I know, how did that happen?) which means layering has now become everything. And thank god.
Perhaps we'd all do well by embracing some solid layering choices in our lives? (And on that note I hope by now it's blatantly obvious I dig a good casual layer moment.) There's something to be said for interchangeable pieces you can just grab and throw on whenever, wherever - with ease (which is always the point, or my point anyway). So with all that in-mind what better place to grab-and-go than the beach?

With the California coastline as a backdrop, Ai-Li Chiong-Martinson chatted with me about what she wears and how layering plays a huge part in any and every choice she makes. And how can it not? In-fact it seems layering is rarely far from the Seattle native's mind (which I'm guessing has a lot to do with those unexpected Northern-Pacific gusts and showers, you know?). "I generally prefer to keep things pretty comfortable and muted, but that might mostly be an innate nod to the crispy Seattle weather rather than aesthetic preference. Layering is my go-to. I take any number of simple items and transform their texture and shape to suit my needs." 
When chatting designers and influences Ai-Li is partial to anything Japanese, partly owed to her heritage. "I might be biased, but I love anything Rae Kawakubo, Kenzo Takada, Yohji Yamamoto and Junya Watanabe." In terms of inspiration Ai-Li pinpoints a few key people. "My mother, Yayoi Kusama, Alexa Chung, Pierre Bonnard and of course Audrey Hepburn (trite as that might be)."

When talking Seattle, Chiong-Martinson has a running list of awesome recommendations. "If you're looking for the best one-stop shopping experience (realistically for those without a budget, but also for wishful thinkers like myself) then you MUST stop by Totokaelo on Capitol Hill. The variety of designers and clothing that you'll find here can at times verge on tortuous, but it's 100% worth it. Just next door to Totokaelo is Elliot Bay Book Company, which is arguably the best bookstore in town. Seattle also has a few awesome and reasonably priced vintage haunts. I would say that Cairo on Capitol Hill is one of my favorites, but ultimately nothing compares to Georgetown's weekend Vintage Trailer Park Mall."  

- Ai-Li Chiong-Martinson, wearing an Acne leather jacket, Ann Demeulemeester top and Cutler & Gross shades, photographed by Alexander Atkins in Half Moon Bay, California.

Hairspiration: The Man Bun (AKA The Mun)

Move aside Michael Douglas - there's a new bout of hairspiration on my radar. 'The Mun', aka the man bun - woah kids!
If you are a regular T Magazine reader you'll probably know all about it, but in spite of the numerous articles on seemingly stylish men (think David Beckham, Bradley Cooper, Orlando Bloom etc) sporting an example you may still be very confused and rather concerned - or in shock. 'Buns? On guys? Are you channelling a librarian or something?'. 

To be fair 'the mun' does have a dedicated Tumblr hashtag which for me basically translates to one thing; it's become legitimate. Perhaps you think a real-life mun sighting is rare, but looking around all I see are man buns. From the courts of Wimbledon to cafés of Williamsburg the mun has become a certified thing. Why? Well as a semi long-and-still-growing-haired individual it comes down to a few basic things. It's easy. It's utilitarian. It's sleek. And it makes a statement (plus it's a great place to store things, like pens!). Unsurprisingly, it also looks good with black. Love it or hate it, I'm doing it (until my next visit to the hairdresser at least).

Alexander Atkins, wearing Rick Owens and T by Alexander Wang, with Ai-Li Chiong-Martinson photographed by Camille Labat in Half Moon Bay.

Essentials: Acne Studios Wallet

Wallets are everything in that they a.) hold your money / credit cards / etc, and b.) they actually reflect your personality.
So in the spirit of always putting your best foot forward (which, by-the-way, should always be the priority), you may or may not be in need of an upgrade - and by that I mean get an upgrade. It's time.

Personally it's always been about that perfectly compact wallet situation. Something that isn't fussy or bulky but still makes a statement. I did the Gucci Guccissima thing for a while and yes, it was spectacular if you're going for the whole chic euro-trash vibe, but I've moved on (even if I haven't entirely gotten over this song). Currently I use a crocodile card holder for everything. It's very minimal which has it's pros (no cash or that dreaded jingle of coins) and cons (no cash and no coins to jingle at all). Basically I got it because I loved touching the croc's spine - which, admittedly, is weird. 
The real point is that I recently discovered Acne's zipped leather wallet. The bright bolt of blue means you'll easily find it and it's got a zip, which actually is a big deal. Zips equate to you being able to have the option of coins (yay laundromats?). Aside from the aforementioned practicalities, in true Acne style it looks pretty damn good - which doesn't hurt one bit when settling-up. So that's always something.

Browse and shop Acne's zipped leather wallet here.

- Photos by Alexander Atkins

Cut It Out: Alexander Wang

Despite the title of this post please, Mr. Wang, don't stop cutting it out. We love it. And you! But you probably knew that.

I mean I can't get enough of the patchwork leather pants you made me (or Neimans rather - but that's just a technicality). Ok - enough rambling. The real point is this: cut-outs are so the tits, especially when infused with really strong tailoring and a basic trilby (you may have noticed my new-found interest in hats...). 

Remember when Dayne came over and rocked that seriously ripped-up Joy Division tee? Well, for his second look Dayne opted to wear something slightly more tailored. Unsurprisingly the Alex Wang blazer was an easy choice. I'm guessing its incredible fit and overtly nautical-meets-French-schoolgirl vibe (which is always lovely, isn't it?) played a huge part in what was a very rapid selection process. Design-wise the cut out is actually held in place by hundreds of little threads, like a tiny harp. Aside from creating a near invisible mesh effect that extends down the lapel, Wang's design also ensures the two sections of blazer flow seamlessly. Good thinking - because no one's got time for weird bunching, thanks. 

Dayne Arron Watai, wearing Alexander Wang's Cutaway Blazer and a vintage trilby, photographed by Alexander Atkins in San Francisco.